Wonderland

Something Wicked This Way Comes.
Do not get your dress dirty.

Her mother's stern command echoed in her head, and really, it was perfectly reasonable; the dress was her best Sunday dress, meant for church. The light blue garment had white lace and small flowers, it was her favorite. But, as Gina thought to herself, if I am ESPECIALLY careful, it will be fine. She had never meant to wander off, it was the puppy's fault.

The small white dog had been a gift from her father, who was away a lot, work stuff. But to a nine year old girl work stuff that took away her daddy was a big deal. To make up for it, and to seek peace with Gina's mother he had surprised her with the small dog. An albino Doberman, he said it would be a fine friend..and would protect her and her mother while he was away.

But the dog liked to explore.

She saw him, Mr. Tibbs, nose open the back door, as her mother talked on the phone. Not wanting him to dig up any weeds or get messy; he WAS a white dog after all, Gina hurried after. She slipped into the backyard just in time to see the small tail as it disappeared through a hole in the fence...one that she had never seen before. A quick glance back at the house, she hesitated..he mother would be SO angry if she got her dress dirty, but Mr. Tibbs could get lost or hurt over there.

Gina's mother looked out the window, having thought she heard a sound in the backyard, but saw that the area was empty. Her eyes played tricks on her, as she saw what looked like the fence...fixing itself. Must be the shadows. Where on earth had that child gone? "Gina? It's almost time to go.."
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Gina was in awe, this was what lay beyond her house?! The forest loomed, huge and untamed, spooky in a way, but so alive that she pushed away her fears. How had she never noticed this? Surely the trees would be seen from her window? No matter...at that moment she saw Mr. Tibbs, as he slipped deeper into the woods. Hiking up her dress, to keep it clean, she hurries after.

Excited barks sound ahead, as the dog bounded after something, Gina was hard pressed to keep up, as the forest grew deeper and darker. First the smell was just musky, she hardly noticed it over the scents of the woods, but soon it grew stronger...almost like burning plastic, or skunk. Was that silly dog chasing a skunk!? "Mr. Tibbs, No! Get back here you dumb dog!" she called out, hearing the dog bark further on.

A sudden yelp splits the air; as the forest itself silences, like a switch had been flipped.

She hurried onward, worried now, and growing frightened. What if it was a bigger dog? Or a bear? They lived in the woods, right? A small white thing caught her view, Mr. Tibbs was laying on his side ahead, alone...near the edge of a deep hole. Looking closer she could see some kind of black mist, like a smoke cloud seeping from the hole. That must be what happened to Tibbs...it must be poison!

Staying far enough away from the pit she crouches and starts calling the dog, it was still breathing...so she hoped he would be ok, he just needed to get away from the hole. "Come on Mr. Tibbs! Come here boy. Lets go home...please...I just wanna go home." Confronted by this horrible situation she starts to cry.

With a shudder, and a twitch..hacking out a wet sounding cough, the dog climbs unsteadily to it's feet. Staggering steps carry it away from the pit, moving towards Gina, her hopes rising..things would be ok! He was walking. Looked sick, but still...she could go home now.

If she was paying attention she would have noticed the patches of fur that had fallen out, the way the dog's eyes were now black. If she had noticed, maybe things would have been different. Instead she didn't see the teeth as they fell out, pushed away by larger, sharper ones. The dog's feet bled, as the toes split, black talons ripping free.

"Mr. Tibbs?" she asked, looking at the dog..then he leaped for her throat.
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The dog, now something FAR more efficient, sat, licking the blood from it's snout. Already the girl's corpse was attracting attention, wisps of the blackness had covered her chewed face, seeping into her nose and scream-frozen mouth. Soon there would be another body. And many more.
Jabberwocky had arisen.
"O, Discordia.." the dog's voice, like a thousand people all whispering together, purred forth. "lament, despair."

A gathering of crows; Murder.

It took little time; Bad things tend to be fast.

If viewed from above, a bird's eye maybe, it would look as if the forest had cancer. Lush green leaves met an invisible barrier of corruption and blackened, the trees themselves twisting into forms not unlike corpses. The forest had a tumor. At the center of this corruption, like an infection, was the pit. No one knew how deep it was, or where it came from. There were myths though.

Some said the pit reached The Lower Level, that it was made when The Jabberwocky had last walked Wonderland; it was made when the beast was banished by the Vorpal Blade. Some said that the blade was still there, somewhere in the bottom. But if that was true...how was the beast awake again?

Every being that the darkness found..it consumed. Already a ring of mutated creatures stood about the pit's mouth, all sitting impossibly still. Only one figure seemed to move; Gina. By now the child looked horrible- limbs elongated twice their length, skin ripped in places exposing bone and an underlining of blackness. Her face was in a constant grin; the flesh about her mouth having been chewed off by Mr. Tibbs. Corruption rippled beneath her tattered flesh, like worms in a corpse. Worst of all, she still breathed. Each inhale brought more of the black mist into her body, filling her to the brim with Jabberwock's essence. Gina was to be it's vessel, spreading the plague of madness and death in it's wake.

Stepping from the ring of creatures, the being that once was little Gina beckons, summoning her faithful hound. Mr. Tibbs had grown as well.

Standing almost five feet, the once albino Doberman now looked like a monster. Rigid black hair ran down it's back, like that of a boar, like wise it had grown large curling tusks from within it's blackened razor clustered mouth. Thick black talons had split it's paws, forming what almost looked to be hoofs. While it was lanky in shape it's muscles had been filled with the blackness, granting it fearsome strength. Pausing by it's master it waits as Gina mounts the beast. Together they would ride...and find the means to escape Wonderland once and for all.

As the rider and mount depart..the remaining horde of beings spread out as well...to be on hand when the time was right, and to spread the darkness. Wonderland was going to become a nightmare.

Absolem blinked at him, tilting his head, did he say something to disturb him? Ah, human, my mistake. He placed his hand on Grey's head, ruffling the other boy's hair, "Don't worry. I'll protect you the best I can." and he proved his point by lifting the boy into the air, Grey suspending by what one would believe is wire, but there was no such substance holding the blonde upright.

He only did this momentarily, gently dropping the boy back upon his feet, "I'm...not as gifted when it comes to lifting other people. It causes headaches unfortunately..and now that you've decided to contract with me, you will gain a gift as well. I cannot use mine in that manner often now, because it will cause strain on you as well. " He decided to share the information with Grey, jumping and remaining in the air, leaning back as if there was an invisable tall couch Grey's eyes couldn't see, "Only fair you somewhat know my weaknesses, since you know so little about me or this world."

Absolem held the ghost of a smile across his features when the boy already seemed comfortable with him, "I will answer any questions you may have, unless it is against the rules of the game." He informed the blonde, eyes scanning him, then he noticed Cheshire's exit, rolling his eyes. Seriously? He but contemplated throwing another Riddle at Grey, but his thought process was disturbed, "I suppose we may leave, though floating us both around unnecessarily wouldn't be wise, so I shall walk with you I suppose.." and he jumped off the invisable 'couch' landing gracefully on his feet, taking the other boy by the wrist, "Remember, don't trust anyone in this room. This is not a very friendly game." and with that he drug the blone child along, giving him no choice but to follow, or fall on his face.

-----

Rhia opened her eyes once she felt ground beneathe them again, looking around in amazement, she was..not in a palace anymore, that much was definitely certain. She watched the tree with an inquisitive look upon her face. She'd never seen anything like this before. She wasn't really stuck on the fact she was being ignored, more on unraveling her surroundings and comprehending how this place ticked. Her golden orbs stayed on no figure or surrounding object for more than ten seconds, determined to see everything she could. This place is rather..grotesque..

Rhia noticed Cheshire looking down at her, after what seemed to be her very extended examination of Wonderland, and she raised an eyebrow with a titled head, "What? I like the outdoors, and from this feeling, I don't think I got to see trees much.." she smiled at him cheerfully. She was scared, she was worried, but she couldn't voice any of it. If she spoke those insecurities out loud, it wouldn't help anything, it wouldn't get her home, or her memories back. She continued to look at him with her tawny shaded orbs, one hand on her hip this time. He keeps treating me like I'm five years old, or like a little rag doll I had as a kid..

She lost this irritated composure when he dropped down infront of her, adverting her gaze. Then she emitted a high-pitched sound when he seized her arms and took her up into the tree. She wasn't afraid of heights, but he took her off guard entirely. Why is he so grabby and assertive? I'm not a toy.. or someone he knows well enough.. Due to her mortification, she merely nodding, deciding to not speak for a little while, it was probably the best course of action considering her previous predicament. She leaned slightly when he adjured her to scope the sights before her, and she examined with precision. She took in everything the human eye could see from such distance, she shrugged her shoulders, "Well this game wouldn't exsist if there were not people who wanted to desparately escape." she placed her index finger in the air matter-of-factly, "I myself, despite not being able to confirm it, doubt I have anything to return to, for the sole reason, I don't really care what happens. If we win, that's cool, if I never remember, that's fine as well."

Rhia just took small bouts between looking at Wonderland, and Cheshire himself. He seemed to really love this place, even if it was cruel and unpredictable, well the last suited him just fine. She however didn't see him as particularly cruel, he'd been taunting, but quite polite to her. Despite the fact he keeps calling me girl, it's annoying..but I guess I'm not in a position where calling him out is wise.. she closed her eyes until her irritation wouldn't be visable, and looked to him again, tapping her chin. Had she? He was asking a girl with amnesia if she's heard of a Jabberwocky? "I mean, possibly once. I heard it's something like a Chimera or a Parasite, if I recall properly. I only read one book on Theorhetical creatures.. and everyone had their own theory. This is all considered fiction in my world. Why can I remember something so trivial..?" The last question was more to herself than Cheshire. She could not remember her name or much about her life, but she could remember her world enough to remember that the Jabberwocky was possibly something she'd read about once.

Cheshire

He had reverted his gaze back to the far distance as the girl mused over his question. His eyes were cold and sharp as he squinted over the horizon, willing his vision to better. He knew the familiar presence and wanted, with sudden desperation, to see it. He had an 'acquaintance' with the coming creature. He hadn't seen it for a long, long time, not since the last human entered his Wonderland. He smiled, slightly nostalgic. They were fun days. The girl had been a very curious thing, very ignorant and stubborn. Though her time in his Wonderland had been relatively short, she changed it drastically. The plague of Wonderland had been done away with, trapped within the lower levels. He remembered quite vividly the ease and grace of the child as she battled the beast. Though he knew it was entirely the weapon's fault, the vorpal blade was creature in it's own right, allowing the wielder to channel it's mastery, he could never get used to the beauty it gifted it's vessels. It was too bad the blade disappeared, but such was the way of his Wonderland. Now the plague had broken free and was spreading rapidly. He listened as his Wonderland screamed 'Jabberwocky' and thought back to the girl beside him. Perhaps another child could do the same as the last and be rid of the beast. Was that the Queen's actual reason for bringing them here? Was the game just a ruse?

He started at the girl's gaze. He wasn't used to being the object of study. Usually it was the other way around. Most residents had sadly gotten used to him. He smirked, somewhat pleased with the examination and answered her, "Oh yes, there are creatures who are very desperate to leave this realm. For some this is a Hell; a place of wicked things." He smiled at her comment of not caring and laid back until he was floating at eye level. "Don't be naive. It's not memory you're here to win, though you may gain it in the process, it's survival. You hold not only your life in your hands, but mine as well. That's the price of the game," he pauses, letting the information set in. He wasn't happy, entrusting a child with his life and couldn't imagine she'd be happy with that knowledge either, but it was something they both would have to deal with. "This goes both ways, however," he continues, "So, don't fret. If you scratch my back, I'll scratch yours."

He sinks slowly until he is resting once again on the branch and nuzzles his face against the bark. He was tired. He had a long day. Hazardous hikes to the palace, dealing with the Queen and abducting young children did that to a cat. He sighed and spoke softly, "Whatever memories you possess of your world don't matter here. You're on new ground, girl, there is no such thing as 'fiction' here." He arches his back and stretches, digging his claws into the carved bark. He yawns and his mouth nearly covers the entirety of his face. "As for Jabberwocky," he continues through the yawn, "You're correct to call it a parasite. This is a chain no one wishes to stumble upon. Supposedly, it's locked away, but I have a hunch we may all be reacquainting with it soon."

Absolem tugged Grey out of the nearest possible exit, he was quite eagar to leave the palace..“To the home I have developed over the ages.” He calmly states. His ‘home’ was not made of wood or stone, nor was it any other conventional material. Absolem lived inside a rather large mushroom, in which he turned hollow. He didn’t enjoy rain, so he created himself a place for sleep and shelter. There were beds, and a table, and places to cook food, but it was almost overly simple. Overgrown figures where nothing out of Wonderland’s sense of ordinary after all. He grinned when the boy asked him a riddle, him of all people, then he closed his eyes as he led the boy along, “Watch your step, many creatures won’t take kindly to you if you squish them.” He warned the boy, although his own eyes were closed.

“The answer is quite simple. It is nothing. A rich man assumes he wants for nothing, a poor man has nothing at all, and if one eats nothing, they will surely die.” He states with an amused tone, “Speaking of that, are you hungry? It would be quite terrible if I didn’t feed you and you grow ill.” His eyelashes finally parted to look at the boy, pink orbs scanning Grey. I cannot become attached to this child, but I must protect him for the duration of this game at least. Everything around them was oddly disproportionate, trees were short, then tall, then like skyscrapers, but then things as small as a flower could be quite a few feet tall, “So what do you think?” he asked curious as to what Grey’s opinion on Wonderland was currently. He remembered his own first opinion of Wonderland, it was his earliest memory other than his name.

--



Rhia watched Cheshire now and then, but she always found herself viewing Wonderland as well, the ever-changing scenery made it hard to see everything. Once she grew bored of trying to challenge the scenery, trying to see everything, she went to trying to remember something, anything. Real name, what was your real name Rhia..? Where were you born? Did you have a boyfriend? She silently clenched her jaw, teeth gritting when she couldn’t recall a single bit of any information, other than Rhia and the bit about the Jabberwocky. She actually guessed, she just remembered reading about a creature, she wasn’t exactly sure it was that one, so she prayed she didn’t make a fool of herself this early into the game.

She’d hoped not, but when Cheshire looked back to her, she tilted her head, ready to listen. When he chose to say something, usually it was a useful tidbit of information, and it was wise for her to take note of it. She pouted when he smirked at her, she placed her elbow upon her leg resting her chin at the base of her palm, almost to her wrist as her ring and pinkie finger rested against her chin, her middle, index, and thumb against her cheek with her eyes now closed. She raised her eyebrows, not bothering to open her eyes, “So far at least, it’s not terrible. Not exactly my cup of tea, but it’s competent of being a place I suppose I could be content with.” She shrugged, laughing a bit when he called her naïve, “It’s not particularly me being naïve, it’s more of, I don’t want to get ahead of myself. One thought at a time. I don’t particularly care about my memories, but I know I don’t necessarily want to die yet.” She informed him, “ Tackling more than one goal at a time is foolish, too much room for error and the failure changes a person. As long as Wonderland doesn’t change me, I don’t care how much it chooses to change.” She went quiet however when he mentioned his own life, when it rang through her thoughts, her expression growing rather irritated not at him, but more of the information. Great, I didn’t need to know that. Now I am worried about it. Idiot. Why did you tell me that?

She finally opened her eyes, sitting back up, smirking at him this time, “I’ve been listening to you for quite awhile keeping most of my observations silent, but from what I gather, although you say that, you wouldn’t trust me. You value your life too much to put trust in someone you do not know.. although, your front was quite entertaining.” She replied in a soft voice, “If you trusted me, believed you could, you’d of used my name, but you’re distancing yourself because you do not believe you can. I’m not saying your choice isn’t wise, to be honest, I can’t answer how I think I will preform, but you don’t have to lie to me.” She mused, before looking up to the sky, “Sorry if it was rude.”

She was tired, but she wasn’t going to make it obviously noticed if she could help it. She didn’t sleep well, but who does when passed out on a floor for who knows what cause? She kept her jaw tight, because yawing was contagious after all. She wasn’t about to show weakness this early on, it wasn’t in her nature to lean on others, rather, to let others lean on her. She wasn’t used to it. She couldn’t remember, but in her human world, she was that way as well. Everyone used her for their own benefit. She wasn’t a stranger to it. She practically embraced it. At least she was needed. She leaned her chin on her palm again, nowhere near as complex this time, barely catching the comments on the Jabberwocky, “I see. Well, I guess what happens will happen. If we’re lucky, maybe it will take out a few of the competition for us?” she mumbled. She wasn’t really feeling up to talking anymore, and as she felt more sleepy, she was holding her tongue less and less on her own opinions and slightly less polite comments. She didn’t seem to care if they hurt others in this game, or even if the other humans fell pray to the Jabberwocky. She wasn’t as sweet as she let him think. Quit asking me questions, I don't want to answer them and I just might end up pissing you off, Cat. Though then we'd be even, I hate liars. Though, it's not like I have a choice in this, and since I'm stuck with you, I'll comply, I can't have you dying because of me

Cheshire

He sat upright his gaze fixed on Rhia, his head at a tilt. Her abrasiveness caught him offguard. He had forgotten the reason he picked her and her sudden outburst made him squirm. She was definitely an interesting creature. There was much more to her than she let be seen. The sides of his mouth stretched eerily wide at her words and he wasn't able to control the amusement he felt towards her. "Perfect!" he laughed, falling backwards and landing on a lower branch. His laughter was uncontrollable for a moment, but he quickly gained his composure and looked back up to the girl, "You're a surprising child, you know that?" he faded and appeared again before her, "It's refreshing seeing this side of you, you should let it out more. As your insinuations..I have been nothing but truthful to you." He was insulted! True he may have been..confusing with his words and actions, but he was giving her good advice!

"Of course, my life is valuable. I've remained alive thus far by being 'distant'. As for your vision of 'trust', simple things such as names are irrelevant. For all you know that may not even be your true name, so what does it matter? I'm referring to the creature before me. You as a being are more important than your name." He leaned back onto the branch, sprawling, "I have no memory either. All I know is my world. Is my name really mine? Who cares? It's a name," he crawls slowly before her and sits cross-legged before her, leaning his arms upon his knees, "I care only for the things I feel and see," the word 'feel' and 'see' are emphasized as he pokes Rhia on the shoulder.

He sighs realizing she was too tired to even keep her eyes open. "Come," he says standing and grabbing her under the arm, pulling her gently, "We sleep on the higher branches." He grips her firmly and leaps higher into his tree, whistling his leaves to creep tightly together, making a softly glowing barrier. He plops her upon a noch where the branches intertwine to make a sleeping space. "You'll sleep here. The branches will make sure you don't fall." He looks over his tree taking comfort in it's life. Hopefully it will remain untouched by the coming forces. Chain or not, he would not let his sanctuary be corrupted by battle or otherwise. He needed to find a way to help protect his world. "As for me..I have something I need to confirm," he says firmly, feeling the change stir within, "I won't be far. If you need me, tell the wind. You may find you'll have some surprising add-ons by contracting with me." He smirks playfully upon the sleepy child.

Rhia frowned a bit when he began laughing, crossing her arms. She wasn't in the best of moods when she was tired. She didn't apologize or stutter when she was like this, she was very rude and cranky, she didn't always mean everything she said while in such a state. It didn't make the situation and better that she didn't like being laughed at. She pushed her eyes to remain open. She wasn't going to lose to him. She kept her expression as blank as she could, but her irritation and anger was obvious in her fiery eyes. She was ready to snap. She was tired of the games. If their lives were in so much danger, why was he being so carefree? She didn't mind if she died as long as it would be quick, but for someone who cared so much about living, he wasn't doing a good job of preparing a plan to ensure he continues his exsistance in her opinion. Planning, strategy, that's how one stays alive. Not by confusing their teammate. If I die, he's automatically disqualified. Does he think keeping me ignorant with his riddles and games is going to be a good thing for his sake in the long run? I'm not going to jump when this guy snaps his fingers, I'm not a doll regardless as to how much as he considers me to be one! I'm merely just doing my very best to be cooperative, to adapt to this situation, to preserve what I've clung to, these broken parts of me I have left. That comes first on my list in priority, remaining myself. No matter what he says, that is of more value than either of us living to me. As long as I remain myself until the day I die, I will be happy.

She tuned him out, his speech reminding her of a book she'd read in her previous life, she couldn't remember what it was called, only the quote. What's in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet. I disagree. When your name you have, whether it's your birth name or not, it's precious. She swatted his hand away from her, it wasn't a rough action, just one of protest. She didn't feel like being pawed at. I'm tired of him touching me so openly! I don't know him, he can't even call me anything other than a child, and he's always looking down on me like I'm stupid! Geez! She decided to not reply to his speech, ignoring guys like him always proved to be the best way to get under their skin.

She wanted to tug away from him when he pulled her up, but she was too tired to pose a true struggle, so she avoiding even attempting an effort to do so. She clenched her jaw instead, she wasn't exactly thrilled at the moment about being this close to him. She knew she'd be able to tolerate him again after resting, she'd even return to enjoying his company. When she was tired however, her kind nature ultimately cracks, showing the other side to Rhia, her more tempermental side, the side that clung to her morality, the side that desparately wishes to remain the same person. She felt a brief wave of happiness cross her entire being when he let her free from his hold, refraining from insulting him by scooting away. Although the thought was seductive enough, her life depended on him, and the reverse was also true. She could at least be a little civil, even when she was angry with him. She merely nodded at him to prove her recognition, she wasn't going to lay down while he was around. Weakness, vulnerability, frailty. She didn't want to show any signs of mortality; hunger, exhaustion, thirst. None of it, even though he probably experienced them all as well, seeing as no wonderland creature she'd encountered seemed immortal. This cat though, seemed to make a point in constantly reminding her how inferior she was, even if it was accidental. He was constantly jabbing his own opinions of her personality, thoughts, morals, and inability to remember anything about herself.

Each time he spoke, it got him further under her skin. Why doesn't everything he says stay skin deep..? She didn't want to give him a single upperhand on her that he didn't already posess. Giving him more control over her, the thought made her cringe. She wanted to be anything but a doll, anything but a little girl who needed led by the hand, pushed, shoved, and thrown into the right directions. Finally, after a long period of her making a point to make him feel as if she was ignoring him, he recieved direct recognition. Golden orbs peered up at him, their expression, topsy-turvy. They held many different emotions; Anger, Frustration, Curiousity, Appreciation, Confusion. A feeling of ambivalence washed over her. When it came to this cat before her, she knew she had to depend on him, that she had no choice in the matter, but at the exact same time, she also wanted the bare minimum to do with someone who threw her around so carelessly, and kept her at arms length, kept her so at a loss. She felt she couldn't trust or depend on him either, despite forcing herself to do so when the situation required it. He seemed too fickle and unpredictable to trust without question. "Like I would.." she mumbled stubbornly, the first words she'd spoken since she'd blown up in his face. Why would I ask for your companionship? I doubt that this can even be called companionship! More like borderline of neglect I'd say. She turned her gaze away when he smirked at her. She was a totally contrasting person when tired. She nodded anyway, despite herself, "I'll keep it in mind at the very least." she replied faking a defeated tone. She didn't like the idea she'd be alone, that especially in the dark, but that was just one of many things she could never manage to force herself to admit. He'd only tease me that much more.

She kept true to her stubborn decision, despite being given a place she could sleep, despite being exhausted and wanting to sleep, she sat upright. He wanted her to sleep, therefore she wouldn't if she could help it. She had very little control of her life. These small choices, these surprisingly stubborn moments, the word Rhia. Those things, however insignificant, however much it possibly irritates this cat, they are the only things of myself that I have left to cling to for comfort.

----



"Well I shall cook you something on the safe side." He stated in a flat tone. I feel like I am baby sitting. Well, that is exactly what I am doing when I think about it, damn you Queen. He gritted his teeth silently, but from Grey's angle, he couldn't see the expression on the older man's face.

Caterpillar watched Grey and slowly released his hold on the boy. He seems like he can manage himself with something trivial as this, much unlike one of those girls probably would, "Look, in this game, you're going to be thrown into battle against the human girls. If me and you lose, it will be a fate worse than death, you will beg for it. I beseech you to do your best to drop your morals towards being a gentleman for the duration of this game. I am not a Masochist, I'm not quite sure about you."

Absolem raised an eyebrow, "Beautiful?" he asked curiously, but shrugged it off, "This place does have it's amazing qualities, but not everything in Wonderland is pleasant, keep this in mind as we tread." He thought to the Jabberwocky, that was one unpleasant creature, parasite, infection, that he hoped would never pose a threat again in their lifetimes. His footsteps halted, when he heard that dreadful name, his lip and eyelid twitched a bit, but he sighed calmly. Breathe, he wasn't actually referring to you as such, quench the thirst of his curiousity, and he will never mention it again if he's as wise as you've took him for Absolem. He was reassuring himself, trying to tame his rage.

"It is possibly the fact that my hair is green, I love the outdoors, and in my younger years, I wasn't able to use my telekinesis to float freely. I couldn't control it, and I hated others controling me. I was a 'caterpillar', waiting to become a butterfly and fly away, to escape my constrictive chains and be free." He informed Grey, "Although, I detest that name, so now that you know, I'd perfer you refrain from using it."

He began walking again, once again dragging the boy, "Wasteland..?" his thoughts darkened, and his tone softened a bit, his irration evaporating. So the Jabberwocky has returned? Is that really true? He shivered a bit, "Never go to such places by yourself. Do you understand?" he was not asking, this was much more of a demand, "I have a feeling we're in for a world of misfortune if what you say is the truth." he sighed. Maybe I should have provoked the Queen into chopping my head off..

Absolem looked around, they would be to his home soon. He could mentally picture his home now, just around the corner. It was surprisingly well kept large house, made out of a mushroom. It was comfortable, kept the cold out, and had beds, food, and water. It was a home, a simple home in Absolem's mind, but his idea of simple was quite warped to say the least.

"Belca? What a curiously wonderful name."

Belca snorted. "Ought to be. I made it up myself."

Even though she wasn't the most sensitive person in the world - in fact, some people would whole-heartedly agree that she didn't have an ounce of sensitivity in her whole body - and she would have gladly make them suffer for that if it hadn't been the pure and simple truth, she could make out the Lady's discomfort when she asked the boy his name.

"My boy doesn't speak," said the Duchess, clearly struggling to maintain a calm facade, no doubt because it would be 'unladylike' to show her discomfort. "And oddly enough, I can't recall him ever having a name. Perhaps you'd like to give him one if it makes you feel better."

Alright, so she was probably more perceptive than sensitive, because as she saw it, why should she care anyway? That little voice in the back of her head was telling her that to show softness was unforgivable.

For now, she settled with promoting the Woman ( where she had been promoted from Freak and Psycho ) to Lady in her mind. Not because she felt sorry or anything.

Meanwhile, she could feel curiosity welling up in her. No name? How did the Duchess not remember ... was he an adopted son, perhaps?

Seeing the Lady's dress get wet, she decided to pipe up once again. "You know, Lady, that dress would be a whole lot easier to manage if you just held it up above the level of the water ... I'm not sure if it would be very lady like of you, though." she mumbled, still contemplating the mystery of the nameless boy.

Palace of Hearts, Queen of Hearts ... a card game?
Belca wondered if maybe this was all a dream.
That must have been it. Probably.

If this was a dream, that meant everything probably made sense, because everything should make sense in a dream.

And if this was real, then she might as well accept it.

Que sera sera and all that jazz, she guessed wryly.

"Hn? Yes, this place is actually better than I- WHOA!" Belca had been looking around wide-eyed, debating whther or not to pester the poor Lady with questions but deciding against it since she might have something vital to let slip among all the ... stuff she was talking about, just as a door was opened and something shiny flew out at them - her. The Lady was already ducking.

Letting out an undignified squeak, she let her instincts take over.

They served her well. She deflected the first knife with her sword, before throwing herself down by the Lady, before the glorious, knife-y onslaught stopped and the Lady walked in breezily, looking in all the world as if this was perfectly normal.

Which it might be. It would seem to fit in with this weird Maybe Dream.

"How insane am I to be dreaming this up?" she wondered in a low voice, taking note that a pig now stood in the boy's place. Not really surprised by this - If this was a dream this was normal, and if this was real there was no point debating anything, she reminded herself - she picked the pig up in her arms, following the Lady inside.

"So I have to come up with another name so soon? " she mused. "Well, I am totally confident in my naming skills! I promise to find something good by tomorrow at the latest!"

Cheshire

He stood for a moment wondering if it would be a good idea to leave her. What if she were to wander? He was confident in the tree's abilities as protection, but it wouldn't matter any if she decided to escape his company. This sudden realization made him pause and he looked down at the obviously unhappy girl. Her total demeanor had changed. She was no longer the sweet, dependent thing he took in. Her transformation, though very refreshing and amusing in his eyes, brought a slight..worry. Would she attempt to escape him? Did she dislike him that much? 'Like I would.' Is that what she said about contracting? This little sentence made his stomach sink ever so slightly. She didn't trust him, if anything she was bearing him, which he could understand as he was in the same boat, but the idea still irked him some. He was doing his best to accommodate her. He was answering all her questions, allowed her into his sanctuary for heaven's sake, and showed her his world from his own eyes. Though, it was quite impossible for his grin to disappear, it certainly shrank. Attempting to figure the child out, brought up a few hurtful truths. Was this the reason no one invited him to anything? Was he dislikable? He mentally gasped, repelling the thought immediately. Impossible! He was always honest, he always made sure nothing ever became dull, and he was always happy..or at least his smile always made him seem so. He was the perfect 'friend'. No one ever had to worry about Cheshire. So why was it that people detested him so?

The chimes in his ears sang as his ears fell, releasing him from his trance. Not being able to understand something so trivial made him angry and before he blew it all on the child he decided to make his exit. His world was in danger; the last thing he needed was his own contractor to rally against him. He shivered as the change took over him. His limbs and body shrank with the tremors, twisting and folding upon himself. His brilliant purple fur coated his body as lines of steam expelled from him, like ink in water. This inky steam continued until he was roughly the size of a housecat. He shivered once more, accustoming quickly to the change then locked on the girl once more.

His whole body seems to visibly sigh as he attempts a new approach. "Stay here..please. Rest. The world you saw, though beautiful, is very unkind and you would most likely become a residents snack if you were to leave the tree," he couldn't help the irritation in his voice. He wasn't against being polite, but being 'soft' was an other thing entirely. He felt her discontentment as if she was emitting it in little waves. The girl was a part of a lethal game, being soft would be a disservice..plus it was highly annoying; but her little spat of possibly not wanting to chain made him rethink himself. "I can't emphasize the danger which lurks in my Wonderland, but you would be wise to listen," He gathered himself before continuing once more. Change was a good thing, so why was this so difficult for him? "Think hard on my words. I may be..difficult, but I am sincere. I'm not that much of a horrid creature." He can't help but smirk at his comment, but shakes it away. "Like I said, I won't be long and if the need calls, obliged it. You're not a simpleton, so don't act like one." His knew he was retreating in his niceties, but he had other business to uphold.

He wriggled once more for good measure and jumped, fading into the air. If he was to confirm his suspicions he would need to travel to Jabberwocky's pit. Though he was sure he could handle himself if any trouble were to occur, he felt it would be smarter to have someone accompany him. That and since everyone seemed to distrust him so greatly, there would be more than one head if his tale proved true...not to mention there would be more than one head for the creature to settle on if it came to it. Braving the other contestants however..was stupid, especially after everyone received their own contractor. They would be very protective and on guard. Thus he decided to visit he closest most level headed Chain he could think of. With a whirl of colourful aura he lands with a small thud within Caterpillar's mushroom patch. He hoped the creature wasn't up for a fight. A few days still remained until battle rules delcared otherwise, so maybe this little visit would prove..hopeful. He shrugged lightly stepping upon the cluster of rather large mushrooms, if this show down became hairy, there were other Chains. He jumped up and down atop the mushrooms, hoping to bring some attention to himself. He laughed loudly, his little cat form bouncing wildly from top to top. If this wasn't so much fun, he'd almost consider this a serious visit.

Rhia’s eyes fixated on Cheshire. She had no intention of wandering around, especially at this hour, but she wasn’t going to voice such things, it would surely comfort him, and at the moment she almost found amusement in making him sweat a little. Rhia, you should go to sleep, she mentally told herself, this isn’t you, you might actually scorn his feelings a bit. Was that possible though when he held her at such a figurative distance? She didn’t regret contracting with him, but she was far from content with her situation. She had no control over her own life, what happened in it. Cheshire was her constant reminder, and due to this fact, she had lashed out at him. She knew she’d feel guilty in the morning, and would apologize abundantly, but for now, she allowed herself a moment of stubbornness, better now than later after all. Now it wouldn’t be as life threatening. She needed to get her anger and frustration out before things became serious, before a mistake was deadly. She had nothing against Cheshire as a person or creature, but the way he treated her, the way he wrenched, seized, and heaved her along, it was like poking her with the blade of a knife, a knife titled powerlessness, alias known as dependency. She had no choice but to place her life in his hands, and was given even less choice but to hold his in her own. It wasn’t fair, she wasn’t certain she could handle the blame if she were to fail him. She watched him commence to make his departure, not letting the terror or panic show in her eyes or upon her exterior. She wasn’t that pathetic, even if she was, she wasn’t consenting enough to express it. She mentally jerked in annoyance and discomfort. Why was he still here? Why wouldn’t he just leave so she could finally lower her guard, the strong front she was trying to maintain.. She hesitantly spoke again, laying down, however on her back, eyes held open persistently, “I had no intention of wandering around.. I told you before I’m not a kid.” she countered, she was embarrassed now, hoping he couldn’t see the minor color alteration of her cheeks. It departed instantly; he was annoyed with her as well. Life was going to be difficult. She wasn’t sure how long she could continue to live this way. Everyone, everything around her was trying to force her to mold into something she wasn’t, into a person they wanted her to be. She wasn’t willing to do this, she wasn’t even sure how much of herself she’d already lost. She ignored his attempts to warn her, she didn’t care. He’s just worried about his own life, he couldn't give a damn about me so he can stop pretending!!! That little coward doesn’t have anything to worry about! he doesn’t have to change me, I’m not going to get someone killed on my account! Horrid you say? I beg to differ. You’re rude, you constantly contradict yourself, and you disrespect everyone’s personal space. I detest being called a child, I hate your smug little smirk and you always seem to manage to make a fool of me. Of course I find you to be the most horrid of creatures, you’re just the easiest to get along with compared to the rest, the only reason I agreed. Of course that's the only reason.. I was just lonely..desparate.. She closed her eyes, no longer wanting to pay attention. Why were his mannerisms getting under her skin so badly anyhow? She decided to not ponder on it. She’d just ignore him from this point on unless it was required she’d have to pay him attention. She waited until he was long gone to rest, but it took her several hours before she'd passed out, her body having forced her to sleep.

-----


Absolem nods at Grey, “I understand, I simply cannot promise your safety if you leave my sights, or wander off to such places.” The man combed through his hair, something he seemed to do quite often, not exactly to his own knowledge, it was a subconscious comfort. He knew he could stop talking for a bit, looking around at the flowers and wildlife of wonderland that surrounded them, both big and small. He lived near the more peaceful creatures, so unless Grey stepped on one of them, neither male had reason to worry about being harmed, “If we caught them earlier in the day, the flowers would have sang to you.” He informed Grey, with any luck easing the boy’s mind.

“I see, that will prove rather helpful. I simply ask you do your very best.” His voice was calm, a hint of mildness intertwined within it, but it was quite feeble, almost unobtrusive. At least he’s a trooper, good, that will prove quite useful to his, and my own survival. Absolem felt a tense sensation, the situation made him nervous. The vibes the boy was giving off, it was something Absolem was unfamiliar with, what exactly was it? He tried not to focus too perplexedly on the matter however.

That is, until Grey’s next words;
"You can count on me Absolem," he said to the man, "I won't let you down and I know you won't let me down, I trust you." It made the man’s eyes widen. He struggled to keep walking, leisurely, “I will do all that is in my power to keep to your faith in me..” he replied in a soft tone. It was distant, shaken. His skyscraper wall he placed between himself and everyone else was fractured a bit, why did this boy trust him?

Absolem eyed the card for a brief moment, shrugging his shoulders, “Fortunes are a great warning, but one should not rely on them completely. The future is fickle, always changing based on the decisions of men.” He ruffled the other boy’s hair. Then when his home was right in front of their faces, Absolem frowned. Cheshire? Where was his contractor? He shook it off, even though Cheshire’s contractor seemed fragile, it was none of his concern if that human died, it would be Cheshire’s termination, not his own, but something inside him made him fear for the feline.

“What exactly do you think you’re up to? Shouldn't you be with that enigmatic girl? Have you had a lovers quarell already? Did you get your feelings scorned?” Absolem inquired the oddly colored feline, almost enjoying the thought of the cat having trouble, "Or did you get bored?" He placed one hand on his hip, opening the door to his house, "Well come in if you’re going to Cheshire!" He called up, strident enough for the cat to hear. He ushered his hand into the room, "After you, guests first after all." He smiled to Grey. The smile made his face less alarming, but his eyes made him eternally sadistic in appearance, which wasn’t entirely unfitting. The inside of his home was cozy, the furniture was sensibly and strategically placed to make the house seem far larger than it actually was on the inside, “Would either of you like something to drink?" he inquired, tilting his pale head to the side, mint locks shifting accordingly.

Ivory it has a familiar ring to it, doesn't it?

Ivory nodded with a baffled look upon her face, "..I see, that's great.." she smiled with an expression of relief. A friend, already. That's a great accomplishment if I do say so myself. She tensed when he called out her nervousness, her head once again nodding, this time with much more force and it was rather quick, "I-I'm not trying to be!" She replied back biting her bottom lip, chewing on it as she continued, "It's not really cautiousness.." she trailed off. Why am I so shy? Is it because he's cute?

She felt her heart sink when Rabbit mentioned her possibly needing the knife during her time in Wonderland. Why would I need a knife? Is the game going to be that intense? She tried to shake off the thought, but Rabbit being a resident of this land, it made it rather difficult. He knew the Queen, much better than she did. She wasn't even sure if she'd seen this person before, "Thanks, I guess I should keep it on my person then.." The white haired girl followed him, her flipflops barely making that annoying sound, actually, they were relatively silent for such brand. She fumbled with her dress, it seemed to help calm her nerves, she wasn't sure why, but she didn't question something that was calming.

She blinked upon the home, gazing and lips parted in awe. It was very organized, she had to give him that, and it was absolutely beautiful. She assumed her past life didn't consist of flowers or greenery based on her amazement in such things. She tilted her head however, how does one get flowers to react that way? Is it possible for a flower to not bend? She decided to not inquire on such perplexing questions. This place seemed anything but ordinary, "It's really pretty, however, I don't believe that flowers back home were so diciplined, so it's quite curious to obtain the opprotunity to see well behaved ones."

Ivory stepped into the yard, making sure to stay on the path to the door, she took further inspection, leaning over to look at the finer details. He's incredible.. I could never manage any of this.. She thought to herself, unable to keep her thoughts from traveling to the yard. She nodded with a smile, "Thank you.." when she stepped timidly inside, her eyes quickly caught the book shelf, then to Rabbit, "Your house is quite lovely, do..you mind if I look at the books? I promise I'll be careful.." she liked reading, she smiled at this, that was one more thing Rabbit helped her remember already. He was really kind, exceptionally kind. Is he naturally this kind to everyone? He seems so responsible.. She went over to the shelf before she got her answer, but she dared not touch. She looked over the titles, giving each one a moment of thought, trying to imagine their contents, "I think smaller homes are more relaxing..large homes make me nervous, I hated that hall.." she shivered thinking about it. She hated being alone, and in a smaller house, it wasn't so lonely, and you knew for a fact if there was someone else within the walls. She listened to him intently then tilted her head, "So..you work for her? What is she like.. if you don't mind me asking? You don't have to answer, I'm just curious.." Her green eyes went back to the shelf. She was nervous around him, but probably just because he was a male, and she wasn't really sure what to talk about. She was just going with the flow and asking whatever came to mind.

Just to cut the grass? I doubt that..

The castle's walls are cracking

Days seemed to pass, the waves coming and going, yet she still sat in the sand. By now the doll had moved closer to the sand castle, though Gina had no idea how; she saw no one else here, and surely dolls could not walk about on their own, right? The sand castle was huge, big enough that even if she stood tippy-toed she couldn't see over the outer wall. Detail had gone into the individual stones, the turrets even had small flags. In her head she saw a small king and queen living there; her mother and father's faces pasted in place, while a princess played in a garden. Yet even in these private thoughts..the doll waited: next to the king's throne, in the queen's lap..even in the garden, next to a rose bush. It was everywhere.

Gina looked at the doll closer, noting it's wet looking texture, as if it had been dipped in oil. In an attempt at bravery she walked closer, and bent over the infernal thing. Button eyes, zig-zag of thread for a mouth..it looked like any rag-doll..only pitch black. With a gulp of fear, and a holding of breath...she nudged it with her toe. Expecting nothing, yet fearing anything, she shuddered at the thing's warmth. It felt alive. Her ears still heard the whispers..but the words no longer made sense.

Without her noticing, a wide crack split the side of the castle's wall. The whispers got louder. The doll simply lay, a fake smile on it's face.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jabberwocky felt great; the pit had been so boring. It would be fun to drop in on it's old friends; Cheshire was the closest, that damned cat lived in these woods. If memory served correctly it's tree was somewhere to the East of where Jabberwocky now stood; Mr.Tibbs had been sent off, back to the pit itself, to gather more of the Essence. For now Jabberwocky was on it's own two feet..rather, Gina's borrowed feet. But soon they would be one. Already it could feel the girl's resolve weakening. Soon that castle would fall, and the child would beg for a contract. Once the host accepted Jabberwocky..the binding was complete; Jabberwocky would once again have full control over it's powers.

A small army of corrupted forest creatures cavorted in it's wake, each one a pair of eyes and a set of teeth for the being to employ. It was unfortunate that the lizard was resistant, once complete no being would be able to resist corruption..for now only the humans and lesser creatures were vulnerable..and even then only those that had not committed to a Chain. The link provided a measure of protection...for now.

The monster strode through the forest..it's destination in mind..time to visit the cat.

Cheshire

A sour grin spread across his face as the boy began to recite Jabberwocky's poem in sudden recognition and he couldn't help but sing the words along with him. The child surprised him and he was pleased he wouldn't have to explain. Time was of the essence. Once the boy had finnished he looked over to Absolem with interest. "Good to see you didn't choose an idiot," He descided to ignore the question of the vorpal blade. That would be another conversation entirely. From what he remembered from his last encounter with the Beast, it was most likely still in the Pit, afterall it was what trapped the creature there in the first place.

He watched the pair cautiously. They both seemed to be taking him rather well, though whether he thought this was a good thing or not he wasn't sure. Afterall, they could still be planning something and knowing how thoughtful Caterpillar is made him still cautious. "Your boy is smart ebough to deduce my Wonderland's scourge. What about you, Abs?" He crossed his arms and leaned against the door frame, his blazing eyes, locked on the Wonderlandian, "Aren't you at all curious? If it's true and the Plague is out, then we are all in for a rude re-awakening." He pushed himself off the frame, daring himself to enter slightly more, "If you are worried about your contractor you may leave him with mine. My Sanctuary is safer than.." he looked around, not in disgust, but uncertainty, "this," He looked back to the Caterpillar, "Nothing can see or hurt it other than me,"

As he spoke this, he couldn't help the fear in the pit of his stomach. True, he was the only one who could ever find his tree and it always hid itself in a sort of protective barrier whenever his touch wasn't present, but the thought of one being able to harm it made him shiver. Nothing was beyond death, reguardless of how much power something held. Surely, if Jabberwocky or some other beast had a way of discovering it, there was always the possibility of harm coming to it. He mentally threw these nightmarish thoughts away and continued, "Personally, I believe the children would be better off away from The Pit. Who knows what the creature could do to newbies such as themselves?"

Once he had finished all the preparation, he entered the main room; using his foot to awkwardly open the door to an amount of space where he could just about slip through. In one hand, the boy had precariously balanced a tray high onto his fingertips and in the other he had placed his golden pocket-watch; he was staring at it intensely and seemed to mutter to it as he walked towards the circular table. He swiftly placed the tray onto the wooden surface, exposing a large ceramic teapot, two teacups with saucers underneath, a bowl of sugar, a milk jug, another instead filled with cream and a couple of small teaspoons; elegant, swirling patterns were embedded into the stainless steel handles.

He quickly glanced up at Ivory, as she seemed to be mesmerized by the books on the racks, before continuing to organise the assortment, “Oh yes, feel free. Go ahead; I haven’t been able to read any of them recently so they may be quite dusty. Don’t fret about it, child, the bindings of some are a bit fragile but it’s an easy job to fix back together,” Muttered Rabbit, focusing intently on making sure the cutlery was symmetrically placed, ”Classic novels, they are. English literature from wonderful authors such as William Blake and Anne Bronte. Tales from the Victorian and such, is this to your liking? I’m afraid I have little else.”

Without waiting for the girl’s answer, he immediately sprang into the kitchen only to return back into the main room, holding a three tier cake stand. Rabbit had hooked his index finger around the handle and was holding it up with ease. The albino was, once again, looking fiercely at the pocket watch that was in his free hand.

“Should only take approximately one hour... Eating... Sleep at 8, yes... Then wake up at 6 – no – 7... ” He continued to mumble under his breath as he situated the large cake stand in the centre of the table. There were a number of small delicacies on the three floors of the stand; not only were there heavily iced fairy cakes but there were also baked meringues, macaroons, small éclairs, puff pastries and tartlets. They were all individually intricately decorated in some way, whether it be glazed over with some sweet substance or adorned with tiny sugary hearts and an abundant amount of sprinkles.

The White Rabbit sat himself into one of the small chairs and waited patiently as Ivory leafed through the range of hardbacks that were available to them.

“Oh, that’s lovely. You may have to stay here for a while, so I encourage you to make yourself at home, “Said Rabbit, his focus now only on the white-haired girl. He couldn’t help but fidget slightly when she mentioned the Queen, “Well, um, why don’t you sit yourself first? I would hate it if we postponed eating when the food is already here. You can collect a book, if you wish.”

"Because I have self dignity.." He frowned when the cat asked why he didn't prance around the mushroom tops. Absolem cringed when the Cat insinuated he was gay, his cheeks turning red, but whether it was anger or embarrassment was left to the other two males to decided, "I do not perfer men in that sense! Women are just too emotional and unpredictable. Probably one of the reasons you are in my abode, or am I incorrect?" his eyebrow quirked up, waiting to hear Cheshire's defensive statement. He was prepared to rip his retort to shreds. Absolem wasn't one to use his fists or skills in such situations, normally one would have to harm him or someone else before he'd involve himself. He hated the headaches that came along with it after all, "There are windows I assure you, but they are scarace and small." he informed Grey.

"Oh? Unlike Grey here, I am quite aware of how calculating and conniving you can truly be, Cheshire." Absolem smirked, a sadistic glitter in his eyes. He enjoyed Cheshire, possibly too much considering the situation. He could get angry with Cheshire and still enjoy his company. It was an odd friendship really, if you could even call what they had a friendship. He watched Cheshire with a great curiousity. He seemed bothered by something, actually, multiple somethings. He shrugged it aside, heading into the kitchen, leaving Cheshire with his human in the livingroom, "Behave yourself or you'll find yourself floating to the palace. You're a lightweight Cheshire, I can accomplish it. I am sure the Queen would love a pet cat." He called out, cups and spoons and cabinets could be heard. After about five minutes, he came out with three steaming hot cups of hot chocolate, and a handful of marshmallows placed beside them on the tray. Caterpillar tilted his head at Cheshire, "You may come in, I am not going to bite, unlike you." he twitched, pointing a long finger to the couch before sitting the tray on the coffee table and sitting down in a lounge chair.

When Cheshire mentioned Grey's safety, an unusual darkness came about his expression. He knew where this was going, and he didn't like it. He went to cut off his fellow resident of wonderland, his jaw was clenched. Don't you dare tell him about THAT creature. I've worked so hard to keep his curiousity contained, to keep his mind free from worry and fear, and here you go ruining it. He glared as the word 'Jabberwocky' left Cheshire's lips. A light in the kitchen burst into shattered pieces of glass, and it could be well assumed that was his way of venting without harming the closest thing he had to a friend. Anyone other than Cheshire, and he would have began the fighting early. He stood from his seat, abandoning his full cup of hot chocolate. He knew this was important if Cheshire mentioned a walk, so he walked over to the other male, leaning over him and trapping him to the doorframe gently with his telekinesis, it wasn't meant as a threat, more of a sign of dominance in his subconcious, and also so he could whisper to the other male "One. No I am not interested in a romantic relationship with someone as ever-changing as you..besides, you've already got someone slowly crawling under your wall you've oh-so-carefully set up.. am I right? Two, I think it's best we leave such information for me to hand out to Grey as I mentally prepare him.." He trailed off, then his eyes softened, no longer dangerous and dark, a friendly smirk crossing his features, "Three.. we both can levitate, so it would be simple for us to escape the Jabberwocky." He was definitely in. He had to protect himself and Grey if this was true, so he needed to validate it as well. He leaned away, releasing the cat, "If you understand, I have no problem assisting you.."

"Leaving him with that tornado of a child?" he asked raising an eyebrow, "I saw it in her eyes the second we entered the hall.. I can't say I'm not a bit skeptic." he sighed, running a hand through his green hair, "If she puts even a hair out of place on him, we won't go easy on you, despite my preference for you compared to the rest of those...people." It wasn't a secret that Absolem detested most of Wonderland's residence. Dutchess was too loud, the Tweedles never got to the point, and by the time they did, he was no longer interested. Cheshire was the only one other than Rabbit that he chose to converse with if given an option.

"That creature would love a human host.. I shall be blunt since you've already put a thousand worrisome thoughts into the poor child. I'd rather him to know." He looked over to Grey, his expression was so serious it was almost suffocating, "Keep a strong will about you, unless you want to become that creature's decayed host. It is unforgiving, and none of us can stop it on our own, sure we could delay it for your escape, but it's never wise to taunt the Jabberwocky.."

"Oh, I see." Belca nodded, deciding to just forget this had ever happened, because she really, really did NOT want to know what could drive someone to make up and write things like this. And she didn't even seem to be doing it out of spite or malice. In fact, the Lady looked like it was a perfectly natural thing to do.

"Thank God they aren't like that, because that would sure as hell creep me out even more than this." she mumbled. Not that it hadn't already traumatised her. She would never be able to look these two twins in the eye without blushing, and most plausibly making a spluttering, embarrassed mess out of herself.


"They're really quite charming once you get to know them," she said, "Quite handsome young lads they are too."

Thanks, but you already spoiled them for me. She thought, grumblingly.

Seeing her refill her teacup made Belca's stomach give out a low rumble. She started and blushed a little, not because it was rude, but because it made her appear weak and at a disadvantage.

Stupid traitor of a stomach, betraying me like that, growling without my permission.....

Glaring at nothing in particular, she started nibbling on another teacake. She really didn't feel like eating right after... that. Even though the Lady didn't seem like she had had making her uncomfortable on her mind when she offered her the book - in fact, she seemed to be helping her out with her boredom - it had still left quite a negative impact on her. Why the hell would someone write things like that anyway?

Then again, maybe this was normal in Wonderland.

As the Lady addressed the boy - pig, the boy-pig thing - she turned to see it -he - something - had turned into a boy again, and was reading a book.

Where did that book even come from?

She idly noted the Lady turning a cake into chocolate, not surprised anymore. This seemed to be normal here. Maybe it was how this world worked.

"Lord of the Rings?" Belca snapped her neck back at the boy so fast she thought she had cracked it again. What was it with her and cracking her neck?

The name seemed so familiar.

"Wait. How do you have access to literature from where I came from? Come to think of it, do you even know how I came here?"

She might be able to go back that way. She was pretty certain this wasn't her own world, because even in her amnesiac state, it seemed she hadn't forgotten much except for her name and history. She could remember certain things if she wished to, like the name of the book just now, and could compare the discrepancies of this Wonderland, could tell things that weren't normal and that she hadn't encountered before.

Interesting. Selective amnesia?

Ivory it has a familiar ring to it, doesn't it?

Ivory took a moment to glimpse over at him, He is.. quite particular about everything isn't he? It just so happened to be one of his cute quirks in her opinion, but she didn't speak on it, saying it aloud might make him uncomfortable after all! Instead, she merely giggled at him, "It's amazing you can balance all of that." She smiled warmly; she didn't seem to have an deceitful bone in her body. She displayed all of her sentiments on the edge of her sleeve, so at least he knew she wasn't mocking him. However, in comparison to the hall, she seemed to overall keep a normal mental stability about her as long as she wasn't left alone again for extended periods.

As soon as she was given the green light, she'd pulled an interesting titled book from the shelf, carefully opening it as if it were made of glass, "I'll do my best to be gentle to them." She nodded at Rabbit, giggling even louder when she realized he was making everything mirror imaged, "You're something else." She grinned happily. She was glad she'd met someone as lighthearted as him, how could she have gotten luckier? Then she returned her interests back to the book, "Victorian writers were quite interesting!" she grinned eagerly, "Not to mention manners were a lot better than they are nowadays." She tapped her cheek, "So does that mean that you'd have Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens?" she asked curiously. She wasn't familiar with herself, but she could at least remember some things, book titles, a few of her world's morals, nothing concrete, but tad-bit information. She read through the book in her hand, turning the page frequently. She wasn't entirely a speed-reader, but she did read rather rapidly for her age. Not many adolescents would stand or sit still and read quite so intently.

She read her fill of that book, and was already starting through another, she seemed to avoid the frail looking books, afraid she'd accidentally break the spine. She only adverted her gaze to look up at him, her expression awestruck. Just what is he? Does that watch tell him something important, or is he just really focused to being on time? She shrugged it off. She could deal with it, time was very easy to manage when you couldn't remember what you are meant to do, or where you are meant to be. She'd just adjust herself to his schedule and hope for the best, tackling each problem with stride as it surfaces.

He answered her question without knowing, she'd barely heard it, but it was indeed a schedule. Hm, he gave us an extra hour to sleep. Thank god. She was groggy when she first woke up, though otherwise, she wasn't too fearful about adapting to his fast-paced time frame. She put the book back on the shelf, exactly where she'd gotten it from. If he was particular about everything else, she was certain he had his bookshelf in a certain order as well, and disrupting it probably would not be beneficial. She stepped away from the shelf, making her way carefully over to the table, placing her palms on her knees as she leaned closer to, but avoided hovering over his masterpiece, "Wow.. you're really good at arranging a table.. and these are really cute. Almost too cute to eat." She chimed happily. She'd quit book-hopping for now, she'd felt she was ignoring him too much as it was.

Stay there a while, really? She kind of assumed such, but she didn't expect to hear her thoughts confirmed so early. She blushed a bit, a hint of colour expressed on her face, "I see.. well at least it's with such a kind person!" she responded in a chipper fashion as she spoke fondly of his company. She slowly sat down in one of the seats at the table, nodding slowly, "I'll talk with you first, I don't want to be distracted by the book." She added thoughtfully.

Cheshire

The way Caterpillar moved and spoke brought a great relief to Cheshire. At least he was being taken seriously, or even if he wasn't and this was some ploy for attack, Absolem'd be a believer soon. His eyes narrowed defiantly as he stayed his ground, watching the Wonderlandian make his way closer. He could only guess what was coming and wasn't shaken when Absolem's 'gift' became apparent. He almost laughed when Caterpillar merely remarked on his 'preparing' of his child, going along with the curious force which held him to the frame. He was expecting something a bit harsher, being as they were both 'enemies' in a fatal game, but he found himself both amused and relieved when nothing more occurred. He was doing his best to remain composed, even allowing the Absolem's comment on his child to slide, however, when it came to Jabberwocky he couldn't help but chuckle. "Don't tell me your intelligence has dwindled as the Plague's been locked up. You remember it can infect everything living thing, birds and insects included, correct?" With effort, he pushed himself off the door and walked pass the mint haired creature, "Hopefully you two are gifted with agility as well, else if the Beast has spread to other creatures.." he trailed off imagining the horrible images from long ago before continuing with a shiver, "Well, were in for some nasty times."

"As for my contractor..she is somewhat of a tornado," he found this description of her fitting and liked knowing his contractor was already causing slight revulsion. His grin spread thinking of how she and Absolem's boy may react to each other. He rested his eyes upon the light haired child. "Have some faith in your contractor. He isn't as fragile as you may think." He shrugged his head in the direction of Absolem, his crazed eyes still on the boy, "Although, you would be wise to remember your Chain's words." He disappeared from the doorway and appeared in his female form atop one of the mushrooms outside. She bounced lightly atop the mushroom, looking to the Caterpillar who still stood in the doorway. "Though I'd hate to bring forth memories of that wretched Rabbit, I must state that we are wasting valuable time. Follow me, please. I believe I've left my child alone long enough."

Caterpillar twitched as he realized what he and the cat were being indirectly compared to aloud, "Siblings are not worth the time." he frowned, it was more of a pout, his expressions were softer on Grey than the wonderlanders, perhaps because he knew humans were unpredictable creatures when it came to emotions, or perhaps to just create a smoother experience for himself, however, Absolem was not going to make it clear which was his motive. "I could have made something else, but it was the quickest brew.." He sighed, rubbing the back of his neck, "Maybe next time I can make some tea." he offered, wondering if Grey found the hot chocolate inadequate. Wait, what the hell am I even thinking about that for? We have better things to worry about, like this Jabberwocky perdicament. Absolem felt his eye twitch again when Grey finally caught on, "Yes, word around Wonderland is I like men, fret not, I've never inappropriately touched a soul my entire stay." he mumbled. How did that rumor even start? Probably Cheshire, but dwelling on that was not his main concern. He sighed to himself. Great, now his contractor was going to be fearful of him each time he was close. Damn cat... He felt Grey's attention drift to him, and he tensed a bit. I'm not gay. I am not gay. I have never even touched a man romantically. He shivered a bit. What am I doing...convincing myself? Gah! No. Stop thinking like that.. just because I don't have interest in women doesn't mean I do in men. Absolem's face flushed pink slightly, his back to Grey and glaring at Cheshire for getting him into such a situation, "Enough about sexuality!" he snapped. It wasn't harsh, but his tone expressed irriation, it expressed a desparation to change the subject.

Why is it so hard for him to remember which gender he is attracted to? If attracted at all, isn't it quite obvious? So I've heard anyway.. he sighed to himself, letting the thought escape him, "Good, once it has you, there's no turning back, so keep that resolve." He crossed his arms, rolling his eyes, "Oh how you wish my intelligence was beginning to slip, that would amuse you for days I am sure." he stated in a flat tone, his voice always seemed more harsh towards Cheshire, but perhaps, it was a sign of how comfortable he was with the other wonderland creature. He never seemed to lash out so at anyone else. He ignored everyone else but Rabbit , Cheshire, and unfortunately the Queen of Hearts. "I simply was stating, when the ground is too dangerous, we could easily slip away through an arial method if things get sticky. Not many of our fellow wonderlanders can do that." he retorted, his index finger pointed in the air, to express he was stating a fact, not an opinion, "Yes, indeed. The Queen has impecable timing to start a game..just what does she have in store for us I wonder, just how much is she keeping, even from the inner circle of the game?" he was being vague to keep his and Cheshire's knowledge secret from Grey. He couldn't tell Grey that the queen planned to never let him return home. That he'd either become imprisioned or a wonderland resident himself. Hope was a dangerous thing to steal from a human afterall. He'd protect the boy's hope as long as he could manage without risking his own life too much. Somewhat? Are you joking? Understatement of the century I bet..

He twitched as the same thought processed through his head, and he shrugs, pointing over to Grey, "I don't find him fragile. This is why I chose him. I chose someone smart, someone sturdy because if his gift has any relation to mine, he will need it to withstand the pain that comes with weilding it." He frowned when Cheshire became a woman, "You're not getting a ruse out of anyone with that form." He taunted the cat with a smirk, looking back to Grey, "Come on. I promise I'll return to retrieve you as quick as I can. I know leaves won't feel as comfy as a bed, but this is a dire matter." Then he laughed a bit, trying to picture Cheshire's child. She's either crying her eyes out afraid, or asleep. What a fragile thing, it's disgusting, "If you get tired or we run into the jabberwocky unexpectedly, I'm going to have to carry or levitate you. It may hurt, but I advise you to bear with me if it comes to such rash measures."

-----
(Best I can do atm, writers block for Rhia and there is no interaction..so..lol)
Rhia was indeed asleep as Caterpillar predicted, in a dreamless sleep. Her blue hair covered most of her face as she was curled up asleep in a fetal position, hands hiding the parts of her face her hair couldn't conceal. She looked peaceful, somehow a lot more childlike than before. She wasn't as afraid in her sleep, her guard was lower. She actually was resting, although it wasn't her choice to literally pass out. She intended to remain awake, but she just could not keep going. She'd hate herself for the weaknesses, for being crabby to cheshire, for everything by tomorrow. Although for now, sleep was her only cocern. She wasn't even aware she was asleep. She didn't feel aware of anything. She was so exhausted she didn't even have realization she wasn't awake, like time decided to gap around her. However, it's certain that she'd bolt up when awoken due to realization she lost her battle with sleep going to start setting in. However, she was safe from such embarrassments for now, breathing softly, in and out, looking so innocent, unaware of the potential dangers she was being sheilded from.

Cheshire

Still hopping atop the mushroom she looks down upon Absolem's dwelling. Her ears twitch and jingle as she listenes to Caterpillar's contractor. She rolls her eyes as she stops her jumping. Placing a hand on her hip impatintly, she calls out, "Alright. Great. Everyone's all encouraged. Can we finish this lovey-dove crap at my place? Or better yet, just finish it?"

She looks down to the Caterpillar, eyebrows raised, "What was in that drink you served him? Have you found a way to drug others with loyalty and emotions now?" She giggled. Now that she was thinking about it, the idea was brilliant. Perhaps it would solve her problem with..everyone. She crouched down on the mushroom top and tried to peer once more through the doorway to look at the boy. It was cute how the child held her and Absolem in such high reguards when he didn't even know them. She smiled. Humans were so naive.

"Tell me, Boy, what is it that causes you to trust so easily? Your contractor may possibly be the reason you're in this world. He may be filling your head with lies," Her body fades, leaving only her eyes and smile visable, "For all you know I could be leading you to your death." Her temperment was fading. She wanted to do something before her Wonderland became a wasteland. Her eyes narrow as she remembers her impatience, "Please, teach my contractor your credulity during your visit." She wondered what her human was doing and felt an eerie heaviness in her stomach. She hoped the child listened and stayed within the tree. She didn't like what she was hearing. The hushed whispers of Wonderlandian vegeation were becoming more frantic. The Spread was closing in. "Abs, you know the way." She gazes upon the Caterpillar before her eyes and ragged teeth whisp away. She turns from the pair and heads for her Sanctuary.

"I am always careful, the one we must worry about isn't me.." his teasing gaze turned to Cheshire, "I can remain business-like and serious..someone else loves to toy around and anger others." he smirked a bit at the cat.

His gaze softened when Grey thanked him, and he turned his attention to Grey, hoping Cheshire didn't see his expression grow gentle, "It's nothing. It's my job to take care of you after all. If you ever need anything just tell me. I can't have you fainting on me. That would cause difficulties for us both." He began his walk with Cheshire. Lovey dovey? Does this cat really think I am attracted to males!? I don't..think I am. I've never felt that way towards one, "I don't know what you're talking about. You know when a woman is most attractive?" His eyes narrowed, "When she keeps her mouth shut. Oh it makes me tremble with admiration." His voice was taunting, sarcastic. He'd never felt an attraction to a woman either. He was certain of that.

Then Cheshire began putting worrisome thoughts into the air, causing Caterpillar to glare even harder. Is she trying to piss me off? It's not like me to often lose my temper, but this cat is pushing her luck today, "You and I both know only one person is known to have the power to reach into their world. It's neither of us, cause I would have took the first exit from Wonderland if I knew how." he hissed irritated, "No, he's been like this since the second I approached him, Grey throws my mind for a loop as well. He's a living riddle, though the terms of the riddle keep changing, so I've yet to solve him." That was the primary reason Absolem chose this boy. He confused him, kept him guessing. He couldn't easily solve this child and that intrigued him.

"As for you wanting Grey to teach her, you cannot teach the ignorant. You possibly picked the most useless human of the bunch." he sighs, rubbing his temples. Absolem felt no regard to speak kindly of Rhia, he spoke exactly what he felt about the girl, uncaring if it would anger Cheshire. Though, he doubted it would. He seemed to have more regards personally for his contractor than Cheshire seemed to have for his girl. Though, he seemed to be greatly effected by something involving her, Absolem was just indirectly prying, perhaps an angry Cheshire would help him decipher the situation without being directly filled in. Honestly he found it refreshing that someone cracked Cheshire in such a way. "That girl I doubt would listen to him. If you told her to jump, I bet she would sit down, just to spite you." Absolem snickered, he didn't like disobedience, he didn't have patience for it, "She has too much determination to control her life to be effected by someone else. That may be the only good thing about your child the Jabberwocky feeds best on the weak-willed if I recall correctly." The whole time, Absolem was leading Grey by the wrist, keeping himself between Cheshire and Grey the entire time since she mentioned bringing the boy to his death. Absolem had a surprising...protective side. This was a side to the tall man he never before exhibited infront of Cheshire, or anyone in Wonderland for that matter.

---



Rhia awoke rubbing her head, slapping herself across the face, "You passed out idiot.. Way to look weak" she mumbled at herself. She was still alone? How long was I asleep.. did he abandon me? I don't blame him if he did..I was really rude..but so was he! Though.. I don't see him admitting that or even apologizing. I suppose I will have to. Fighting this early, before the game even starts is no good. I'll have to apologize and put up with his control-freak personality if I want to go home..but does that even really matter? Rhia pulled her hair in irritation, a handful in her hands when she let go. All I know is.. I don't want to change..why is that all I can remember about myself, and why can't I remember about my home..about where I lived..if I was even happy..? She clenched her fist until it was white. She was growing to have feelings of contempt towards Cheshire. She saw no real reason to feel obdeience towards him. He was hiding things from her, and she knew it. She didn't know what it was, there wasn't even the slightest chance she could possibly know, but it irked her. She.. couldn't trust him knowing he was so secretive. She'd pretend to, and she'd of course return to her previous compliances. She knew she'd have to comply with him, and she kind of regretted giving him a hard time. Of course he didn't trust her. He didn't want to be with her any more than she wanted to lose her memory.. but it still was irritating.

It still hurt.. and she was alone now, left to relive every moment of her harsh words, his harsher ones. She looked around. How did he expect her to leave if she didn't even know which way was down? She stood carefully, examining the tree and where she was placed. I'm not going to leave..but if I should need to.. I need to know how high up I am and which way is down.. She looked down, instantly returning to her spot. It was dark...she was really high up and alone. She felt herself trembling. "Tch..this is the last thing that Cat needs to see..he'll never let me live it down.." she whispers to herself, irritated at how weak she was, how scared she was about being alone, especially in the dark..her worst fears were being combined. I won't forgive him for this.. she mentally stated flatly. hugging her knees and resting her forehead against them, not even attempting to hide the fact that she was scared anymore. It's not like he can see me right now.. It's okay to be scared I guess.. as long as no one sees..

Cheshire

She remained silent for the most part, allowing Absolem his rant. She was pushing her luck and feared if she bit back she may lose the two and have to start over again with an other Chain. She ignored his banter of riddles and why his child was the 'pick of the litter' keeping her thoughts soley on returning home. However, when Absolem remarked upon her child again she felt a burn of frustration. "You seem to know a lot about the girl when you haven't even met her. I must say, your rudeness is unbecoming." She didn't let her temper get the best of her, letting her tone retreat back to the sing-song way she usually spoke. Some of his words rang true, which made his statement sting. His contractor was spiteful and the thought of her purposely disobeying put a bad taste in her mouth. She attempted to cast her worries aside. They were almost there and she would see soon enough if she was 'obedient'. "You did say one truthful thing about her, though. She is determined. I find it better to have someone who's strong willed than to have someone so docile and be an obedient dog." She shivered and growled, murmuring more to herself than anyone else, "I hate dogs. So amenable..and slobbery. Pets are what they are.."

She picked up her speed, joyous to be back in familiar surroundings. She leapt over the patch of wild flowers which grew around her sanctuary, only they didn't sing or welcome her back. She stopped for a moment and looked around. All the wildlife seemed to have withdrawn into themselves or disappeared. She sank as she gazed upon the sad seen. Normally there was so much life, so much choas. Now, it was as if everything had resigned to the horrble force. She clentched her fists and narrowed her eyes. "Jabberwocky," she spat, every ounce of her hatred forced into that one word. She would stop its corruption, reguardless of what it took.
She ran to her hidden tree and disappeared within the leaves. At her touch the tree revealed itself, coming back with a shimmer of falling leaves. It seemed to glow a hazy lavendar, the falling multi-hued leaves whirled around it in a happy dance. She smiled softly, trailing her fingers lightly upon its etched bark, at least something around here still held life. She jumed higher, each branch seemingly guiding her upwards. Finally she reached her contractor. Her grin beamed when she saw the girl didn't run away. "Good to see you took my advice."

She was emensely happy to be able to rub her contractor in the Caterpillar's face, but the child seemed preoccupied which made her stomach tighten. Was she still feeling spiteful? She did not want to argue in front of Absolem. Seeing that satisfying smirk on his face of him being right was not an option. She gathered her wits and extended a hand. "Sorry to leave you for so long. I hope you slept well." Seeing as the girl didn't outright spite her brought a tiny thread of hope. Absolem had gotten under her skin and seeing the way he and his child were already so close bothered her. Though, unlike Absolem she was happy to build their 'relationship' instead of jumping into it. It took time and though niether her nor Rhia really trusted eachother just yet, she genuinely hoped they would. It would be a..nice change to have someone's trust. "Come with me. I have some..friends I'd like you to meet."

Belca ... ? That sounds about right ....

A laugh bubbled out from the back of her throat.

Am I alright?

No, I'm not bloody alright. Apparently I'm living in a book. What kind of weird person dreams of such a messed up world anyway? Especially if its a world from a children's book.

And I can't seem to wake up.... well, I can't wait to finally see the 'friends' and 'family' whom I can't really remember right now and laugh with them about this strange dream. At least that's something, right? I can always laugh about it later on.

If Belca had to explain the edge of desperation in her thoughts, she would have put it up to another thing that couldn't be explained and didn't need an explanation because all this was a dream. But somewhere deep inside, she was smart enough to know that it was because something seemed off. Something told her she might not wake up from this dream, and she needed to convince herself otherwise.

She choked back her laughter - which was starting to border on the edges of sobs - and hysteria, instead blinking up at the Duchess and scowling to hide a startled smile.

"What do you mean protect? I can protect myself very well, thank you very much. I bet I could kick that Jabberwocky's ass to the moon and back." she muttered grumpily, trying to will back her grateful blush.

She wasn't very used to being protected, it would seem.

A little bit frustrated she had to find out things about herself through experience, she attacked the rest of the teacakes with gusto, even though she didn't really have much appetite. It was a way to stop looking awkward, something to occupy her mouth and hands.

"How do you like the name Francesco?" she grumbled between bites at the boy, avoiding the issue of the Jabberwocky, trying to lighten the mood - she didn't like how tense the atmosphere had gotten, and she could always scout for more information later on, without this whole oppressive feeling of impending doom hanging over them like a particularly annoying, stifling blanket - though the question was directed more at the Duchess. He didn't seem to be the talking type. At all.

❤ The Queen of Hearts ❤

Alde yawned daintily, feeling rather tired. Besides, all the Contractors had been paired, so she didn't really see why she should stick around anymore.

"We will be retiring to our room now. That is to be all, Kuro." she got up from her chair lazily, disappearing in a flurry of indigo butterflies. It was more trouble than worth it trying to traverse the Palace of Hearts on foot. The place was huge, and even Alde herself didn't know everything that was in the palace.

Maybe she would remedy that someday.

For now, she was tired.

She reappeared some distance away from the tea garden. in her own room.
People might think that, true to her personality, her room would be a large, Gothic Victorian one. And they wouldn't be too far from the truth.

Alde's room was filled with dark red and trims of beige, off-setting each other, and the giant, king-sized dark red four poster in the middle took up more than half of the room.

Not even bothering to undress or even take off her shoes, she threw herself on it. She hadn't felt this satisfied and tired in a long time, if ever.

“I do not know as much about her as I let on, but one can tell a lot just by looking at someone’s eyes. In her’s I saw a whirlwind of emotions, have I created a false image of her, can you please correct me if I state something false? Correct knowledge is always more delightful.” He was being only half teasing, he was serious, but he did enjoy testing the cat as much as the cat loved to test him, “Rude? I didn’t realize, I do apologize.. Cheshire~.” He sang the feline’s name out. Guess I pushed her too far this time. I’ll cool it for now. He let a small smirk come across his features, pink eyes scanning the cat, “Now we’re even.” Hmm, one truthful thing you say? Are you trying to convince, me or yourself my dear cat? I know I am a better judge of character than that. He let the cat pretend to have startled him, “Enlighten me.” He lets out in a smooth tone, his smirk growing, “I suppose, but a dog is man’s best friend. Loyal, Fun, and they are so obedient. Cats are quite fickle, but quite enjoyable as well, though they tend to be very unpredictable. It’s no wonder few other than myself trust you at such a time as this. You are the most likely suspect in probably even the Queen’s eyes to look for an easy way through to game, even if cheating is required. Not that something like that worries me, I like to think I know you a bit better than that tyrant.” It sounded like an incredible insult at the beginning, but actually Absolem was contradicting the belief. He believed Cheshire to have a certain level of trust, unlike most of Wonderland, “Dogs bark too much.” He chuckles. Then he looks at Grey, “There’s nothing wrong with obedience if you practice it to gain a desirable result.” He grins, ruffling the boy’s hair.

Absolem kept Grey close to himself, glaring at the chaotic mess that was once quite mesmerizing, “Keep your wits about you if you’re smart.” He whispered to Grey. Absolem vaguely remembered this, he remembered the destruction known as Jabberwocky. It left things empty, cold, dead. He never liked it. Not a single bit. Calm down Absolem, so he mumbled a riddle, “ You heard me before,
 Yet you hear me again,
 Then I die,
 'Till you call me again.”

He wondered if Cheshire heard Grey’s statement about his sexuality, hopefully the cat missed it entirely. He actually hadn’t even realized his protective action of moving inbetween the feline and his contractor, until this statement. He was shaken however more by the boy mentioning he felt safe around him, he simply closed his eyes, “I merely am completing my duty as your contractor, Grey. You have too much confidence in me.” He was startled, off guard. Why does he feel so safe around one such as myself? I’m keeping so many secrets from this poor boy. “Oh? You have?” He finally acknowledged the sexuality remark, wondering if he should have continued ignoring it.

“Trust is something you shouldn’t hand out so easily. Cheshire is one of the more trustable Wonderland creatures, but even she will turn on you if it comes to living or dying..” He whispers to Grey after the cat leaves, “I find it will be wise for you to remember that once this game starts.”

---------



Rhia’s head whipped up rather quickly when she heard sound, eyes widened. She found herself glancing away, “I-It was just too high.” she retorted, but her tone with the cat was much calmer. She almost saw me. Did she see me..? Rhia swallowed hard, praying to anyone who would listen that Cheshire didn’t see her looking so vulnerable and weak. Rhia shook her head quickly, “It’s fine, I’m not that childish. I can be by myself.” she retorted. Did Cheshire actually see me curled up like that, looking pathetic? She glanced over at the cat. So Cheshire apologized after all? Too bad it wasn’t about the right thing. it wasn’t even the part she was angriest about, and actually, the cat apologized for the part she wasn’t willing to forgive. She bit her bottom lip. Don’t argue again Rhia.. She didn’t want to meet new people, but she assumed she had no real choice in the matter, so she merely smiled, going back to her previous façade of no longer speaking her mind, “Of course, I’m curious to meet them. I’m sorry about earlier.” It wasn’t certain if her words were true, or if she was just saying them for the sake of moving on.