The Red Queen - (Alice In Wonderland)

Painting the "Roses" Red - Chapter 31

Gloom settled heavily upon Wonderland, the sun itself was hidden behind dark, stormy clouds. It was as if Wonderland itself knew what was to come and it was adjusting its weather to match the upcoming war. It reminded Katy of that day so long ago, when the original war happened, that led to King Thaddeus and Queen Marigold's death. It was as if history was repeating itself, except she knew that this time things would be different.

The dream that she had last night only established that fact further, Alice was more powerful than even Alice realized and Magdala would be in for a rude awakening when she found out who exactly she was. It brought out a smile as she pictured it in her mind.

"We are almost there, my sister just informed me. What were you just thinking about?" Jack informed her as he joined her toward the middle of the army. They had been traveling consistently all day on horseback, and now they were finally drawing near to their position. He looked at her with a small smirk, watching her closely as if he could see inside her soul.

"I was just imagining the look on Magdala's face when she comes face to face with Alice. It is going to be epic, but I still worry, Alice is still going to have to put up a big fight ahead of her. There is still a chance that she could turn dark, and all of Wonderland will be worse than it currently is. I don't think that will happen, knowing Alice as I do, but one must also prepare for the worst." Katy responded worriedly, biting her lower lip anxiously.

"Look, although I haven't personally met this Alice that you have told me about, I can honestly say that I don't think she will turn to the dark side. Now I might not have the gift of prophecy, such as yourself, but she seems like a strong person, and not only that but she has all of us rooting for her. I do know Hatter though, and if he fell in love with her, then that says something right there about her. And I know that he will do everything in his power to keep her from the taint of darkness. Just as I would do for the people that I love." Jack encouraged, reaching across the expanse for her hand.

Stretching out her hand, she placed it in his big warm one, where he squeezed it gently. Holding it for a moment longer, before finally letting it go. Katy had noticed that he was sticking close to her, rarely leaving her side. She was debating whether or not to tell him of the most recent premonition that she had. That was the other half of her dream last night, but maybe now wasn't the right time for it, after all, there was going to be war later on today.

There was a shout from up ahead, and soon it was echoed back to reach them, they had reached their destination. It was time to organize the troops, once and for all the fate of Wonderland would be decided. Katy couldn't help the shiver of fear, yet she straightened up and became more determined than ever. Magdala would be defeated and there would be freedom throughout the land.

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Meanwhile, closer to the valley, Hatter was getting ready to make a speech to the soldiers. Not only did he want to encourage the men as they were about to fight for their lives, but he also wanted to remind them why they were doing this in the first place.

"They're ready for you, the men could use the boost, if I'm being honest. We all know and have either heard or seen Magdala's power firsthand. Yet, we have all prepared for this moment for the past 27 years, trying to keep some of her power at bay. We are ready to get our homes back, once and for all." General Morian stated determinedly, his eyes revealing the eagerness of the battle to come.

Nodding in agreement, Hatter patted his shoulder as he passed by, making his way up front where all the soldiers were waiting. On his way up he couldn't help but think about Alice and what she may be up to. He hadn't heard from her since she had left him unexpectedly yesterday. Hatter worried about what she had to do if it was dangerous, and when he would see her again? How would he be able to keep her safe in the upcoming battle if he didn't know when she would come or where she would arrive?