Echoes of Wonderland

Die with a smile

Chloe's POV

The sun hangs high in the sky as we tumble through the rabbit hole for the third time today. It's just past noon now, and the familiar sensation of shifting through space-time is almost routine, though the urgency of our mission keeps my heart racing. We emerge into Maddox's workshop, the familiar clutter of tools and magical artifacts greeting us. Red and I burst into the room, our faces flushed with exhaustion and determination. We're carrying the last of the materials we've scavenged, our arms heavy with the weight of our mission.

Maddox is hunched over a cluttered workbench, his face illuminated by the soft glow of magical lights. When we burst in, he looks up, his surprise quickly replaced by a mask of focused concentration. We dump the materials onto the table with a thud, and Maddox starts to sort through them, his hands moving with practiced precision.

- We got everything you asked for. - Red says, her voice carrying a hint of frustration. Her gaze darts around the room, her usual composure fraying under the pressure. - So, what's next?

Maddox takes a moment to carefully examine each item, his expression thoughtful. The lines of fatigue on his face become more pronounced as he speaks.

- This is exactly what we need. You've done well. - He glances at me, his eyes reflecting the exhaustion that's mirrored in my own. - But you two look like you've been through a war. You need to rest. Tomorrow's going to be tough.

- We don't have time to rest. - I protest, my voice tinged with urgency. The weight of the upcoming battle hangs heavily over me. - We need to be ready.

Maddox shakes his head, his tone firm but not unkind.

- Rest isn't optional. You're running on empty, and that won't help you in a fight. Go to Bridget's castle, get cleaned up, eat something, and get some sleep. I'll handle the artifact and call you when it's ready.

- Alright, fine. - Red's shoulders slump slightly, her frustration evident. - We'll head to the castle. But we need to be ready as soon as possible.

- I promise, it will be worth it. - Maddox assures us, a reassuring smile on his face despite the exhaustion. - Now go. I'll need a few hours to finish up. Take this time to prepare yourselves.

With a final nod, Red and I turn and head out of the workshop. The journey to Bridget's castle is quiet, each of us lost in our thoughts. The castle comes into view, its grandeur providing a momentary distraction from the tension. It stands tall and regal, a reminder of the safety and security we desperately need right now.

We make our way directly to Red's room, the familiar setting offering a brief respite from our frantic pace. As soon as we're inside, we collapse onto the bed, the exhaustion catching up with us. I look over at Red, her eyes reflecting a mixture of fatigue and concern.

- Do you want to hit the shower first? - Red asks, her voice tired but considerate. Her gesture is small but meaningful, a reminder that even in the midst of chaos, we care for each other.

- Sure, I'll take the first one. - I reply, grateful for the chance to freshen up. - Just make sure to get us something to eat, okay?

Red nods and heads out to ask the royal butler for food while I head to the bathroom. The shower is a much-needed luxury, the hot water easing the knots of tension from my muscles. The steam envelops me, and for a few minutes, the noise of the world falls away. I emerge feeling slightly more human, dressed in the casual blue clothes Red had laid out for me.When I return to the room, Red is just stepping out of the bathroom, her hair damp and her face refreshed. She has a tired but content look on her face as she sees me.

- All set? - I ask as she walks in.

- Yep, food's on its way. I'll be quick. - Red replies, heading to the bathroom to shower herself.