The Red Queen - (Alice In Wonderland)

Chapter 10 - Traveling Companions

A soft knock at the door pulled Alice from sleep as the first rays of morning light streamed through the window. It was time to go.

Alice dressed quickly, choosing her brown hiking boots, a red blouse, and a tan khaki skirt that fell just below her calves. The outfit felt practical for the journey ahead, unlike the other clothes that seemed too formal for the occasion. After braiding her hair simply, she stepped out of her room and found Cat already waiting. Cat's attire mirrored Alice's practicality, though her lavender khaki skirt, turquoise blouse, and plum-colored combat boots added a splash of color.

Near the door stood Katy, looking both elegant and vulnerable in a soft blue summer dress, her long hair cascading in gentle waves down to her waist. Her eyes were rimmed with red, a sign that she had either been crying or was about to. She fought to keep her composure as she addressed them. "This is it," Katy began, her voice trembling slightly. "I wish you both the best of luck. Take care of each other. Cat, remember Alice is still new to Wonderland. Teach her as you go. And Alice, don't be afraid of what's to come. Your journey is long, but never forget what you're fighting for and everything we've discussed. Trust in the Mad Hatter, and earn his trust as well—it's vital. Do you have everything you need?"

Alice hadn't anticipated the preparation taking so long, but Katy had been nothing if not thorough. "I hope you don't mind, but I got you a variety of clothes," Katy had said earlier while bustling about, packing herbs, food, and other essentials into backpacks. "You came here with nothing, so I wanted to make sure you were well-equipped. Feel free to take what you like—you can always get more once you reach the Mad Hatter's."

Katy had also taken time to explain the uses of the various herbs she was packing: some for healing, others for flavor, protection wards, and even fire-starting. She packed everything—tent, sleeping bags—into a seemingly bottomless bag. "Curious and curiouser!" Alice had exclaimed with delight. "What kind of bag is that?"

"A find from a traveling peddler," Katy had replied with a satisfied smile. "He claimed it could hold anything without ever running out of space. I tested it myself, and it was worth every penny. He even threw in a free prophecy. I knew it would come in handy someday. You can use it as long as you need, Alice."

Now, with everything packed and ready, Cat finished securing her own sturdy, waterproof purple camouflage bag and stood up with a look of accomplishment. "That about does it!"

Katy's smile trembled as she looked at Alice, her eyes misting over. "I feel like we've known each other for so long already. It's hard to say goodbye." She wiped away a tear and reached out, clasping Alice's hands in hers.

Alice's throat tightened with emotion as she squeezed Katy's hands. "I know what you mean. I can't thank you enough for everything you've done for me, but I'll try anyway. Thank you, Katy, from the bottom of my heart. I'm so glad to have met you and learned the truth. You're a dear friend. Let's not say goodbye—let's say, until next time. We'll meet again, I'm sure of it."

Katy nodded, her eyes shining with unshed tears. "Until next time," she whispered, pulling Alice into a warm embrace. "You're right. This isn't forever. I'll see you again before too long."

Cat, ever practical, added, "I've triple-checked everything. Don't worry, Katy, I'll take good care of Alice. We'll reach the Mad Hatter's in three days. Once we arrive, I'll send word to let you know we're safe. But we can't wait any longer. It's time to go. See you soon, Katy." She hugged Katy one last time before grabbing her bag and heading out the door.

Katy hugged Alice tightly once more, her voice thick with emotion. "We'll see each other again, maybe when you least expect it. I'll be doing everything I can to help with the coming battle. I believe in you, Alice. You can do this."