Here is the final chapter and epilogue. Not necessarily the true ending, as I have said in the past chapter. Whether you want the first epilogue or this epilogue to be the ending, I'll leave that up to you. I just felt like expanding on how I felt that it should end.

If you read the story thoroughly, you'd understand what was going on. I made a couple of changes in the last two chapters since I do understand that this took place in the Victorian Era. No antibiotics were created at the time so it's invalid. I also realize that I spelled Kingsleigh wrong so I fixed that... DX

I also changed it a bit and put the last chapter in as someone's POV. If you cannot figure out who it is after the first two sentences... Well, you know who it is eventually. :)

Anyhow, enjoy. Be warned; this epilogue is pretty sad but it does explain what happens.

Alice in Wonderland II: Underland's Champion

Chapter 20: The Epilogue Part Two

? POV:

It feels just like yesterday when fate has taken a turn for all of us. The very day when Alice and I were happily reunited. Of course, our life together actually started about twenty years ago, but you get the point.

I remember fondly of how I first met Alice when she was just a child. Of how innocent she was yet she possessed such a munchness that caught my attention. I was a bit sad that she had to return home but understood that she was young at the time and had a family to be with. She promised that she would come back when she found the opportunity to do so.

It was right after her departure when something happened to the Red Queen. She released her Jabberwocky to slay everyone that defies her, including my now deceased clan. She took the opportunity to steal the crown and claim herself the ruler of all Underland. Never had I felt such anguish and bitterness that transformed me into the Mad Hatter. It made me even more angry and upset to know that the Red Queen believed that we have been aiding Alice and punished us for helping her greatest enemy other than her sister. Mirana and very few guards escaped from the horrible incident and took refuge in Marmoreal. I humbly quit my job as her personal tailor since I was in need of time to be alone to mourn over my loss. The White Queen, ever the kindest soul, granted me this wish. I was infuriated to know that Chessur had fled the scene but was livid to know that Stayne, a childhood friend of mine, betrayed us all over pitiful circumstances. I tried to avoid him as much as possible. Every time we saw each other, I put up a calm expression to keep my anger in check. After all, he was the Knave now and had the power to arrest me as he pleased. It was better to not get at his bad side again.

So for the next few years, I simply stayed in my new home nearby the ruins of my village. At first, I didn't know what I could do to help ease my pain. I tried to make myself new clothes to pass the time, but that grew old quickly. I even made clothes for anyone who happened to pass by and was awarded some generous tips, but that didn't help either. Then I thought to myself; what does make me happy the most? Then it hit me; parties! I could set up a party every day and celebrate everyone's unbirthdays to our hearts' content. After all, the last unbirthday tea party I had with Alice was quite fun. So I tried that. At first, it was quite eventful and enjoyable and eased my pain a little bit. However, as the years went by, I began to hallucinate guests and was disregarded as mad as a hatter. Soon people began to call me the Mad Hatter and forgot my original name. I didn't mind this at the least. It was a nice change, to be honest.

Through the years, the unbirthdays grew less enjoyable. Only Mallymkun, Thackery, and sometimes Chessur would attend. I would have music playing while they chat away to themselves or took the time to nap off our boredom. There were very few days when a random guest would attend or just stopped by to watch curiously. However, it was one day when we received one unexpected guest.

When I saw this special person walk up to our table, I have never felt so much happiness in my entire life. I was so happy that I walked onto the table to greet her, not caring that my precious tea set was broken. I knelt down and looked her over. She was much smaller compared to before; probably due to drinking a pishsalver. However, she was more grown up and had more structure to her body. Despite the uncertainty in her expressions, she was undoubtedly Alice.

I won't get into so much details about what happened after that. But I must confess something. In the thirteen years since she left, Alice had changed. Neither for the good or bad, but it still made me concerned. She was so... Indifferent about everything around her. She was not excited for the tea party we were having. She was less than excited about going through with the prophecy. It was like the happiness in her completely disappeared. She didn't remember anyone here, not even myself. She wasn't as bold or daring as she was when she was a child. Overall, she had lost her munchness.

It was so depressing seeing her so unsure of herself. I did everything I could in my power to help her, yet she still didn't believe in herself. Granted, slaying the Jabberwocky probably wasn't the easiest task to handle...

But in the end, she chose to go through with it regardless of all the risks. I couldn't have been any happier, proud, and afraid for her. I wasn't sure what made her change her mind, yet I knew that she was scared of what would happen. I knew that despite what anyone else would ever say or think, she was the bravest and most unselfish warrior I have ever met. It was probably at this point when I think my fondness of her grew. I was aware that I was more protective of her, especially when she took on the Jabberwocky alone.

I admit that I was astounded when she did behead the Jabberwocky. After the Red Queen and Stayne have been banished, I have never felt such relief and happiness in my life. I managed to perform the Futterwacken perfectly and vigorously.

But as soon as Alice took the Jabberwocky venom, I couldn't help but feel quite anxious and sad. We all knew what it means if she took the vial; she would return to the place she desired to be at most. It was the realization that I would never see her again that made me step up and give her another choice. "You could stay..."

It nearly broke my heart when she said that she had to go home again. Because she still had questions that needed to be answered. Questions that only she could find. But she promised to come back again, but I still couldn't shake off the sadness that lingered many months later. Many questions ran through my mind. How long would it be before she would come back? Would she remember any of us?

The four years after that were anything but peaceful for me. I have waited for Alice to come back, but the days grew more painful. I am quite happy that Iracebeth and Stayne are gone, but it felt like life was not worth living if Alice wasn't a part of it. I grew afraid of my instability when everyone commented about it, especially after the incident with the Storm of Tears. Mirana may be my personal advisor and Mallymkun and Thackery are my best friends, but none of them understood me like Alice did.

It isn't until four years later when she unexpectedly comes back. At first, I didn't believe it was her and thought I was dreaming (ironically). But after a few moments, I barely held back tears of happiness at knowing that she was staying even longer. It was this time that I noted several wondrous changes in our Champion. She was much more voluptuous and munchier; a grown woman and a beautiful one at that.

Our very few small encounters tested my feelings for her, but it wasn't until after witnessing a nightmare that made me realize that I have fallen in love with her. I tried to hide it for the sake of our rebounding friendship, but the Crystal Ball somehow made my restraint shatter into pieces. This was the first time Alice truly took my breath away when she gracefully walks into the ballroom. But a lot of challenges came up that threatened her life and I couldn't bear to watch her take it on alone. I begged to join her in her quest and it wasn't until I confessed my feelings to her when she finally agreed to let me go.

I never once thought about going back and was content with staying with my Champion and new lover. I was very unhappy and upset to realize that our quest tested our relationship, but I still refused to let her go alone. When we completed our quest, I was happy that Alice survived through the odds. But after an unexpected accident, it cost us her life. I felt so helpless and fell into hysterical grief.

Mirana told me that there was a way to bring her back, but there was a heavy price to it. It broke my heart hearing of the price, but I made my own terms with the Ancient Ones. After a long negotiation, they finally agreed to let Alice be revived and that I could stay with her as long as we never returned to Wonderland and if I finish eleven tasks and permanently cut ties with my clan. They permitted us to return to Wonderland upon Alice's dying year so it wasn't so bad.

Let me tell you, the task of changing my lineage was not so easy. First, we had to find all of my legal documents proving my existence and destroy them bits by bits. Then Mirana had her best legal representatives go through a long process of changing my name and background that would be approved at Earth. The Ancestors used so much of their power to transform me into a pure human. It was a painful process, but definitely worth it. The change felt so different, but absolutely curious and it was a good change. I no longer had mercury in my body so I lost my title as the Mad Hatter. I often found myself observing my new form and wondered how Alice would like this change. Mallymkun has said that I was selfish and a fool for going through with this. Maybe I am, but it'll be worth it.

Once I recovered enough to control my body, the Ancient Ancestors gave me eleven tasks that I had to do in both Wonderland and Earth. This was a test to see if I was willing to go through with it enough to be with Alice forever. I would have ultimately failed and perished if I just abandoned my vows and left to find her. I found this opportunity good since it would give me a good insight of Earth.

I won't get into so much details about the tasks. They mostly involve slaying monstrous creatures, finding precious trinkets, solving riddles, or befriending different cultures for the profit of a truce. It was more difficult doing the tasks assigned on Earth since I had very little knowledge about Alice's world, but I managed to pull it off. As a result, I became known to the world as a roaming treasure hunter and earned a decent title as a noblemen because of my achievements. I would have something to start my life with when the time comes to see Alice.

I managed to get all eleven tasks done in about ten months. I took this time to rest at my home nearby England and enjoy the luxuries that I was offered. But most of all, I took the time to think about how to approach Alice. I was afraid of her reaction. Would she remember me? Would she be angry at me when she realizes I was a part of the negotiation? I was more afraid of her rejection rather than her anger.

Soon I heard about a big party being thrown in honor of Hamish Ascot's great success in his latest novel. I heard that the book was called Alice in Wonderland and grew curious. I bought a copy and read it myself. I have to admit that it was rather good. But how on Earth did Hamish get so accurate? There was only one answer; Alice. She must have shared her input with the man so she would undoubtedly be in the party as well.

Regardless of how nervous I felt, I took a carriage there and arrived quite early. This party was for anyone interested in attending. I was a bit disappointed to find out that Alice hasn't arrived yet. So of course, no one spared me a glance except for an occasional woman who would gossip and whisper to her friends excitedly. It soon got to the point where several women grew interested in me. I managed to throw them off by hiding deep in the garden.

I stayed there for quite a while thinking to myself. It was getting dark and I decided to leave when I heard someone crying. I felt my heart stop when I realized that it was the very woman I've been looking for. However, she didn't seem to recognize me in the dark so I decided to toy with her a bit. She grew angry and soon I lost patience and revealed myself to her. After that...

... You could say the rest is history. But I may as well explain what happened.

Alice had to hide me in the mansion until she manages to get her family and the Ascots together to come see her 'surprise'. It was quite amusing seeing everyone's reactions; Lady Ascot screamed while her husband dropped his glass and Helen, Margaret, and Hamish stared at me with enormous eyes. Little Stefan was staring at me for the longest time before he smiled widely and reached out for me. He cried, "Madda Hatta!"

After everyone calmed down a bit, we all sat together in the living room and quietly talked. Alice never let go of my arm and she was smiling so widely that Chessur would have been proud. I was permitted to hold Stefan and bounce the giggling child as I told everyone my story. Needless to say, they were all impressed by my accomplishments. Helen gave Alice and I her blessings to court while Hamish, who has grown to care for Alice as one would care for a sister, warned me that he would hunt me down if I ever hurt Alice in any way.

How could I? I would never let any harm fall upon Alice. Never again...

After about two hours of talking, I managed to convince them to go along with calling me by my changed name: Terence King. Yes, I know. Not exactly the best of names, but Mirana insisted that I use it. She never explained her reasons so I just went along with her request. Soon I was introduced as the friend of the Kingsleigh family. Very few people disregarded me when I told them that I make hats and used to travel around as a hobby. I even offered to make some hats for a couple of young girls as a courtesy. They absolutely adored the gifts as soon as I made them under one night (courtesy of Lady Ascot's endless sewing supplies).

Many months after that, things have changed. I was offered a free room in the Ascot residence since I didn't technically have a place to call home. I was quite happy with this arrangement; it could give me some time to start a business and earn more money to buy at least a small apartment. Not only that, but I would always be close to Alice. As long as I helped Lord Ascot and Hamish with some of their personal duties, I was allowed to stay with them. I found this to be fair before I quickly started a career as a simple tailor with good pay at the nearest fitting store. I quickly grew a reputation for making beautiful hats and dresses to every customer's exact desires and soon started my own business. I earned very generous tips and saved enough money to buy a two-bedroom and two-bathroom apartment in town. The main floor and bathroom would be used as the store while the small upstairs bedroom and bathroom was my personal room. Although it was a little farther away from the Kingsleigh residence, it was doable.

But I had to be careful with how much time I put into making the orders. I vowed to myself that I wouldn't overdo it and become prone to mercury poison as I did a year ago. It wasn't that I didn't like the side effects (as I did miss seeing my normal pale skin and the colors changing in my eyes), but the old me would have never been approved in Earth's society. I was still wondering how on Earth Alice's family and the Ascots have gotten used to my old self a while ago. Maybe Alice has told them about me or the Red Queen told them during their capture...

Regardless, I was just happy that they were very welcoming and supportive of me and thought nothing less.

Not only that, but I desired nothing more than to spend time with my Alice.

I always went to her residence straight after work or during free days. I used the excuse of making Helen, Margaret, little Stefan, or even the maids wonderful 'dress orders' in order to see her. Every time I went over there, I may have been a bit overdramatic with my entrances, but no one seemed bothered by it. In fact, on good days they were thoroughly amused or on bad days they seem to brighten up. I always waited in the living room with Helen's delicious treats and would talk with her until Alice finished getting ready. I absolutely adore Helen; she reminded me so much of my own dearest mother. She treats me as if I was her own son so you can say that we are rather close. We always shared our secrets together and I even shared some of my tea recipes with her when she asked how I was always good at making them. I always took her advice if I ever felt frustrated with something I found unjust about Earth. She really was a wonderful mother for Alice. Sometimes I also see little Stefan and would play small games until Alice showed up.

The moment I see Alice, I feel absolute happiness and peace. The kisses we share and the gentle touches we exchange. I always took her out to different trips. Sometimes we would have picnics, fancy lunch or dinners, long walks, or even sword or physical training. I insisted that staying in shape would benefit both of us in case something happened. Alice sometimes won, other times I would. I was glad that at least we had fun together. The only downside was that we had to be completely isolated from society; the nobles wouldn't be too keen on seeing me train a woman with a weapon. But the upside was that whenever we were alone, we could get away with very deep kisses and teasing touches. But I never went too far with Alice; I promised Helen that I would keep things customary in our relationship and intend to keep that vow.

About seven months after our reunion, I have made a very important decision that would change both our lives. I decided that it was time to finally propose to Alice. At first, I was afraid of her rejection. I even told Helen (who was the very person who put the idea in my head in the first place, curse her persistence) about my concerns, but she told me that there was no reason that Alice would say no. She believed that I was the one Alice was meant to be with forever and that she loved me with her entire soul. I was a bit upset that she told Margaret and the Ascots of my plans and that they wanted to have an engagement party. I firmly stated that I wanted to propose to Alice privately and respectfully asked them to wait until I get an answer. They remembered what happened the last time they made an engagement party for Alice and decided that my idea was probably better. It was the first time I ever saw Hamish look embarrassed.

I planned everything out carefully. I set up a romantic dinner that would take place in the Ascot's garden where we shared our dance. I thought that it was appropriate under the circumstances and hoped that Alice would get the insulation. I wanted to give Alice my mother's wedding band; a simple gold band that had a large sapphire with two small emerald carats on either side of it.

Everything went according to plan at first. It was a relatively quiet dinner with mostly Alice talking while I listened. I was too nervous to say anything and gave her rather short answers. She soon became worried and asked me what was wrong. I told her that there was nothing wrong. However, right after that was when things went downhill. A raccoon jumped onto our table and made a terrible fuss over our food. I ended up having to scare it off but ended up chasing after it when it snagged my ring box. It dropped the ring in the rush and I ended up slipping into the mud. Alice caught up and picked up the ring box to open it before I could protest. I fell silent as I took in her suddenly stiff reaction. She slowly turned to me and asked what it was. Thoroughly embarrassed and upset with my face and hair covered in mud, I told Alice that it was supposed to have been a surprise that went horribly wrong. Despite how bad I thought everything went, I went ahead and asked her to marry me. I was dumbfounded when she suddenly hugs me tightly and kissed me very passionately despite how dirty I was. She had the brightest smile on her face as she whispers, "Yes."

Two months after that, we had our magnificent wedding in a beautiful chapel. It was one of the happiest days of my life. We didn't hold back from our wedding night; we expressed all our love to each other in our new small home given to us by Helen. That night lead up to the second happiest day of my life.

We quickly found out that Alice was pregnant. With twins.

At first, I was concerned that Alice may have gotten sick when her mood started to change rapidly (I teased her by saying that she was going as mad as a hatter, which earned me a punch on the shoulder), when she had morning sickness, and when she had a strange craving for cinnamon rolls and raspberries. Helen took her to the doctor while I was at work. When I got home, I saw the Kingsleighs and Ascots in our living room with the biggest smiles on their faces. I seriously thought that they were all trying to compete with Chessur at that moment until Helen gives me a hug and thanks me for blessing her with more grandchildren. It took me a moment to figure out what she was saying until I look at Alice with utter disbelief and surprise. She placed my hand over her stomach and I noted that her stomach was very firm and unusually rounder than normal. When I felt a bump, I jumped and shouted out something in Underlandian language. No one had any idea what I was saying until Alice calmed me down and told me that I was going to be a father of twins. That realization didn't help; I only began to shout even louder than before. It took me a little while to calm down before a new realization hit me. Not caring that if anyone else was watching, I spun Alice around and kiss her in the most passionate fervor I have ever felt. I was so excited that I began to giggle and dance around the house like a madman. Helen took the cue to shoo everyone out of the house to give us some privacy.

After the announcement, I altered my working hours so I would be able to spend more time watching over Alice. Eventually, my overprotectiveness got to the point where she decided to stay with her mother and sister and insisted that I continue working at a normal schedule. I was a bit upset by her abrupt decision, but I knew that it was a good idea that she had Helen and Margaret around. After all, they were mothers themselves so they knew what to do. Helen offered to let us stay in her guest room all through the pregnancy so that saved a lot of time and was safe for the babies. Throughout the days, I would work hard in hopes of finishing my orders and going home early. However, the long days didn't stop me from sending messages to my wife. They were as simple as 'missing you' or 'love you and the little ones. Alice was pretty aggravated by the endless notes, but eventually she got over it when she confesses that she was missing her husband during the day.

All throughout the pregnancy, Alice's tummy would grow larger and firmer. The babies' kicks grew much more noticeable. I honestly never found largeness appealing, but Alice was even more radiant and beautiful than ever all throughout the pregnancy. She was absolutely glowing, especially in the morning. Nothing seemed off as far as the doctor was able to tell us during monthly appointments. However, in the eight month of her pregnancy, I was absolutely stunned when she asked out of nowhere, "Dear... How did we first meet? I knew it a moment ago, but now I had forgotten..."

... Was it finally starting? Was the curse the Ancient Ancestors put upon Alice finally taking its toll? Alice explained that she felt as if she met me earlier in her life prior to her visit when she was nineteen. She faintly recalls seeing a smiling cat, a queen with a large head, and a large blue caterpillar and thought that it was a dream. In fact, the only thing she seemed to have forgotten about was the tea party we shared... The very first time I had ever met her when she was a little girl.

I almost burst into tears. Alice noticed this and I had to explain to her why I was so upset. She also began to cry but I firmly told her not to grow stressed out of fear for the babies' lives. It helped only a little, but I was very angry at myself for distressing my pregnant wife so badly. My strong Alice forced herself to not think about it and decided that such a small detail would have to be overlooked for now. Her babies were more important than her memories.

The delivery came fast. I was forbidden to be with Alice during the labor and was stuck waiting with Hamish, Lord Ascot, and Lowell in another room while Helen, Margaret, and Lady Ascot help three midwives care for Alice. Her painful cries nearly forced me to burst into the room, but I was thankful that Hamish held me back when he did. Throughout the last few months, he and I have grown to be best friends. I was so glad to know that he understood this situation. He found a woman two weeks after his success with his novel and married her two months later. I have to admit that she was quite beautiful; flawless brown hair, fair brown eyes, peachy skin, and a warm smile. She gave birth to his son, Joseph Hamish, about six months ago. The little lad looked so much like his mother but had his father's smart wit and chin.

Finally I heard an infant's cry. Just a minute later, I heard another baby crying and felt my heart stop. My excitement overclouded my common sense and I pushed myself into the room before anyone could stop me. It turns out one of the midwives was about to come get me but stepped aside with a soft smile on her face. She allowed me to move towards the bed holding my wife and two beautiful daughters. Everyone left to give me some privacy with my new family.

Alice looked exhausted and pale, but she was absolutely glowing. She held our wonderful girls close and smiled widely at me. I shakily sat down next to her and looked at my daughters' faces.

My first girl looked exactly like her mother. She had the same hair color and face structure. But as soon as she opens her eyes, I could see a mix of green and blue in them. She looked right at me and cooed curiously as I ran a trembling finger over her forehead. She absentmindedly grabbed my finger with her tiny hands and began to suck it. I instantly knew that she would grow up to be just like Alice. Alice and I agreed to name her after her mother and grandmother: Alicia Helena King.

I cried the moment I saw my second daughter. She had small red curls around her tiny head, striking green eyes, and her mother's facial features. I was absolutely stunned; she looked just like my beloved deceased sister. She had a temper, grumbles when I play with her curls, and squirms from being disturbed from her rest. Alice simply smiled and decided to name her Lilia Christine King. It was perfect.

My perfect girls. My life was now fully complete.

The next few years were wonderful. Day by day, I watched my daughters grow up to be wonderful young ladies that are taught the proper ways of noble life. Lilia always had something up in her sleeve; she found a great desire to paint, read, draw, sew, cook, or even invent. She was such a brilliant child! Alicia was so much like her mother; she wasn't afraid to get her hands dirty and was always outside playing. She would pretend to be out in adventures slaying dragons and protecting her family from evil witches. I couldn't help but chuckle at the irony; Alice and I told them stories about Wonderland but never exactly told them that it was their mother who saved Wonderland.

Alice was the perfect mother for them. She always made sure that they were nurtured well, cleaned properly, dressed appropriately, and taught different lessons. She also made sure to play games to keep them entertained. However, I was saddened to know that her memories of Wonderland were fading bits by bits. So far, she has no recollection of anything about Wonderland before her second visit. She was aware of her memory loss as well but didn't seem bothered too much by it. At least she hasn't forgotten a lot of things.

But by Alicia and Lilia's tenth year, things grew even more tragic. Helen, Lord Ascot, and Lady Ascot have passed away from a deadly virus and left all their inheritance to us. Lowell and Margaret perished from an attack upon a merchant ship that they were on. They left twelve-year-old Stefan (who was left with us to be watched over) under our care according to their will and that all of their inheritance will be given to us. Hamish and his wife were mortally wounded during a robbery in their home. Hamish's dying wish was for Joseph to stay with his godparents; us. I promised Hamish that when the time came, Joseph and all of our children would go back to Wonderland and prosper happily. He died peacefully knowing that his familial line would carry on.

All these losses affected Alice heavily. She went through a long period of depression that even I couldn't get her out of. She forced herself to look happy around the four children and found that taking care of them helped distract her a little bit. I tried everything I could think of to cheer her up, but my heart broke when I saw that her munchness has faded. The only source of happiness I saw was when she played with the children. All she does nowadays is simply read books, cook, clean, sew on occasion, or just stare at nothing. It was unnerving.

For the next ten years, Alice's depression seems to lighten up only a little bit. Twenty years into our marriage, we both have noticed great changes. We both have grown old while the children have grown into magnificent young adults. Young suitors were already asking to court Alicia and Lilia. However, they seemed too interested in their own worlds to bother considering marriage. I can't complain; I'd rather that they wait a little longer and that they choose a husband at their own time. They're my little girls and nothing will ever change that.

Alicia, as I had predicted, looks exactly as Alice did when she was nineteen. However, her eyes changed from blue-green to strikingly bright blue. They were bluer than Alice-Blue. They were practically the highlight of her entire look and were almost intimidating when she was excited or angry. She had shiny wavy blonde hair that Alice immediately grew jealous of. She was as brave as she was adventurous and reckless. That would probably explain why she and Stefan got along so well; they were both quite mischievous. She wasn't afraid to voice out her opinion and loved to do physical exercises. She undoubtedly got her excitement from me.

Lilia grew up as graceful as a flower. She had equally wavy hair as her sister, but it was as red as my own. She had bright green eyes and her mother's beautiful smile. While Alicia was more like myself, Lilia was more like Alice. She was quiet and rather stubborn and curious about everything. Like me, she loved to create things. In fact, she offered some designs as ideas for my work and I would always consider them. She always creates small dresses for herself or her sister, fancy tablecloths, and even silly socks. She would cook random recipes on eventless days or use most of her time studying to invent new gadgets. Because we loved her so, we always used her inventions that usually help our daily routines. She created a little machine that would alert us if we received mail.

Lilia was the thinker while Alicia was the doer. They were the perfect opposites for each other as far as twins go. They couldn't be better best friends.

Stefan made me somewhat concerned as soon as he turned twenty-one. For some strange reason, he has always preferred to keep his hair long and past his shoulders. He had his father's facial features but kind blue eyes that twinkle mischievously. He was a bit of a troublemaker; he would always try to find ways of going out to do something even if it wasn't legal. His behavior almost reminded me of Stayne, but he always made up for his troubles and didn't do anything reckless. I convinced him to at least put his hair back into a ponytail if he wanted to keep it long. He was honest and noble like a perfect gentleman; I couldn't ask for a better nephew.

Joseph was somewhat different. He knows that he isn't technically related to us by blood so he feels somewhat left out. We always assured him that he is always a part of our family and that nothing would ever change that. Compared to the other children, he is quite timid and shy. His brown hair was short but groomed smoothly and he had a handsome face and dark brown eyes. Even though he is twenty-years-old, he stuttered a bit with his words and would back away if the conversation became too awkward. He was quite smart, but somewhat reserved. I was surprised to find out that he developed a small crush on Lilia when he asked me advice on how to approach a woman. Knowing that he would be good for her, I gave him my approval but teased him a little bit by advising on how to impress her. His several attempts were quite amusing but thoughtful nonetheless.

My hair has grown into a disheveled mess, almost similar to how my old self looked. It had a hint of silver in it and my skin was growing pale and slightly wrinkled from age. However, I kept at the top of my game and could still move furniture if it was needed. Alice's hair was now almost platinum and her skin is barely wrinkled from age; she was as beautiful and elegant as ever. The only thing that changed was that she cut her hair much shorter and that her eyes were slightly dull and almost lifeless. Every day she is growing even more unaware of what is going on around her; her memories of Wonderland have all but faded completely. She doesn't even know that Wonderland existed anymore; it was as if it never took place in her life. I never brought the topic up anymore out of fear of causing her unnecessary stress. She often asks how we met, how our family started, or when the most recent events we shared took place. When the children ask why she seems to have forgotten herself and recent activities, I merely told them that she might be developing dementia. I even had a doctor look her over, and he said that it could be early signs of Alzheimer's disease.

Barely a month after this diagnosis, Alice has fallen deathly ill. The doctor concluded that she was suffering from the flu for a long while before it developed into pneumonia. At that point, nothing could be done to help and the doctor stated that she might have at least two weeks left in her life. The news tore me apart, but I had to put on a strong face as I thank the doctor before bidding him farewell. I knew what this meant.

The time has come.

The hardest thing I had ever done was telling the news to my children. I had to let them know that their beloved mother, aunt, and godmother didn't have much time before she would join the rest of the family in a new happy place. I also had to tell them that because of the rapidly spreading viruses in the country, we had to move to my motherland. I didn't tell them exactly where it was and instead decided to surprise them. It was easier to convince them by letting them see their new home for themselves.

I was surprised that the children have taken the news reasonably well. Lilia was at first stubborn to believe it before she broke down into tears with her sister. Stefan looked very shaken but forced himself to stay strong. He promised to take care of his cousins and uncle now that he was the last Kingsley of the family. Joseph was upset but he didn't cry. He held Lilia close and comforted her to the best of his ability, if not awkwardly. They were all fine with leaving England since they didn't feel like they had any connection left in it.

The first week went by too fast, and Alice was growing worse into her sickness. She was breathing heavily as she rests in bed. The children would always bid her good morning or night or bring in food to help ease her pain. They wanted to spend as much time with her as possible. I never left Alice's side for anything. I resigned my job as a milliner and gathered up all our legal documents available. I left a will stating that all of the inheritance would be donated to a nearby orphanage that had such wonderful children that Lilia and Alicia befriended when they were younger. The fortune would guarantee that the orphanage would prosper for a long time to come. The director commented that I was mad as a hatter, but I took it as a compliment.

Soon all that led to today. The very day we all would go home.

I was packing all of the valuables I wanted to take from my office until I came upon a picture. I stopped and leaned on my desk as I looked at it and smiled softly. It was a picture of Alice and I during our wedding. I was wearing a black suit while she wore a beautiful gown. Her hair was pulled back into a bun with some of her bangs gracefully framing her face. She looked as beautiful as she did when we danced at the Crystal Ball so many years ago.

A knock on the door interrupted my thoughts. I looked up to see Lilia peeking inside with curious green eyes. "Father?"

"Lilia," I smile toothily at her as I put the picture into my suitcase. I stood up to greet her with a small hug. "Is everything all right?"

"Yes, everything is fine." She murmurs as she pulls away. She smiles up at me. She was about Alice's height so she was a few inches shorter than I am. "Allie, Steph, and Joe have all packed their bags and are ready to go. They're helping Mum into the wheelchair I made for her downstairs right now."

I smile again. "You've packed everything you want to bring? You do know that once we leave this building, we will never come back?"

"I know, Papa," Lilia nods before she frowns and looks down at her feet thoughtfully. I frown at that look; something was troubling her. "What's wrong, Lilia? What are you thinking?"

She hesitates before she sighs. "... The others and I have been wondering... Where are we going? You just said that we're going to the place where you and Mum met. You never exactly clarified where that place is. And no offense, but would Mum be strong enough to see it in her last week? She doesn't even know who she is anymore..." She looks down, afraid that she has said too much.

I was silent as I consider her words. I contemplated on how I should tell her before I also sigh. "Dearest, if I told you where we are going you'd simply laugh and think it was a joke."

"No, I wouldn't!" She protests. "Even if you told me that our new home would be in an alternate dimension, I'd still follow you! I trust you, Father. Never once have you let any of us down, even at the hardest of times."

I wondered if she realized how accurate her assumption is, but I didn't think too much about it. I sighed deeply again. "Dear, it's not really your reaction I'm concerned about... It's your mother's."

Lilia frowned. "What do you mean?"

I thought for a moment. "Well... The place where we are going to... Was a place that your mother didn't exactly believe existed..."

Lilia narrows her eyes and I swallowed before I continued.

"She went there multiple times and had a marvelous experience. I met her for the first time when she was but a wee lass. But when she returned to her home here... Her parents and society convinced her that our world was only a dream. She was convinced that it was a dream all the way until her nineteenth year and came back again by accident. She did some... Things that made one of the monarch leaders quite angry."

"Angry? As in they threatened to kill her?" Lilia's eyes widen.

"... To an extent. Alice joined the other monarch leader and me and together we pulled through defeating the tyrant together. She was awarded by being sent home here and changing courses by finishing your grandfather's business."

Lilia looks quite astounded before she nods thoughtfully. "Yes, I remember when I was a child that Grandma said that Mum was gone from home for a long while to finish Grandpa's career..." She frowns. "... But was that what she really wanted?"

I pause before I shrug. "... I honestly cannot say for sure, love. But before she left, your mother said that she had so many questions that needed to be answered. She promised that as soon as she finished all of her tasks, then she would come back to us."

Lilia brightened up immediately. "And she did go back, right?"

I smiled. "Indeed she did. That's when she and I have fallen for each other. Our relationship was at first a bit rocky, quite like yours and a certain young man that we both know very well..." I tease her and was delighted to see the blush on her face.

"P-Papa, don't try to change the subject!" She grumbles furiously. "Tell me what happened afterward!"

I chuckle before I grew serious again. "Well, Alice's services from her second trip earned her a good reputation in the old monarch. They offered her to be their leading Champion."

Alicia gapes at me incredulously. "You're bluffing."

"Not at all." I shake my head. "She was given a task to find the opposing monarch after we found out that their leader survived from exile. I refused to let her go alone and went with her. We succeeded in defeating them but..." I hesitate as the painful memories hit me at full force. "... At the last minute, they left your mother mortally wounded. We all thought that she would have died that night."

Lilia looks thoughtful before realization hits her. "I'm guessing that's where those bullet scars came from then?"

Damn, such a smart lass of a child I had. I hesitate before I nod. "Our doctors did their best and said that all they could do now was allow Alice to rest. By some miracle, she survived the odds. It was then that our leader gave her honorable discharges and let her come back here to finish healing and live the rest of her life in peace."

Lilia is silent before she smirks a bit childishly. "And you went along with her?"

I pause. "Not... Quite. I had to finish my own terms with the monarch before I was discharged. After that, I went after your mother and stayed with her ever since. We got married shortly afterwards and then had you and your sister. After that... She began to lose her memories throughout the last few years." I finish with a sigh. It wasn't exactly a lie, but it was as close to the truth as I could possibly get.

Lilia is silent as she takes my words into heart. She finally nods. "Wow... I never thought Mum was the fighting type. That would kinda explain where Alicia got her fighting spirit from."

I couldn't help but smirk. "Perhaps. But enough chitchat. We have to get moving before it gets dark. Wouldn't want to be late, now. Do we?"

Lilia smiles as I close my suitcase and wrap an arm around her shoulder. I close the door behind us before I lead the way downstairs.

:)(:

"So... What now?" Stefan asks as soon as we come to a stop. He looks around.

We are in the middle of a grassland. There was no society, buildings, or even water nearby. We were quite far away from other eyes and were indeed very much alone. There was only grass and a massive blue sky. Judging by the children and Alice's expressions, they clearly had no idea what was going on.

"Just watch." I smile as I pull something out of my pocket. Everyone squints at the object in my hand. It looked like a bag of glittering grey sand. "What's that?" Alicia asks.

I poured the dust around our group in a big circle. As soon as I finished, I tossed the bag aside and held the family close. "Soul Dust." I simply said.

During my eleven tasks, the Ancient Ancestors have given me twelve bags of the dust to transwarp me between Wonderland and Earth. It would teleport anything that was inside a circle made by the dust to another world that also had a dust circle. I was advised to save the final bag for when the time came to bring Alice back to Wonderland. I kept it locked securely in my vault at all times up until now.

Just before someone was about to say something, everyone fell silent when they noticed that a bright light was illuminating from the dust. The light shot up to the sky like a wall and began to change different colors. Alice began to panic in her wheelchair so I tenderly hoisted her into my arms and held her close. I murmur, "Relax, love... Trust me."

Her anxiety didn't let up, but she calmed down enough and shielded her face into my neck. The children held each other close and lean against me as they look around fearfully. We watch as everything outside the circle began to shift into different shapes and colors. It was like witnessing everything changing from the inside of a cyclone. It would make you feel dizzy if you watched for too long. I learned from first experience to stand my ground otherwise the process would make me even more nauseated. Nothing moved in the inside of our circle so we were perfectly safe as long as we didn't step out.

Soon the spinning began to slow down and eventually stopped. It took a moment for our dizziness to go away. Alice was unaffected since she chose not to watch so she opens her eyes to see what happened. Her gasp made everyone snap into reality. When we looked around, I smile in relief while the children look absolutely astounded.

All around us were huge plants of all species, particularly large colorful mushrooms. The skies were a mixture of blue and grey and ancient ruins lingered around the massive land. We noticed several massive insects flying by our group while some talking flowers murmur amongst themselves.

"What..." Stefan choked and looked as if he was trying to clarify if he was really seeing what he was seeing. "What is this place?"

"Tarrant... How wonderful to see you again..." A voice says smoothly. The children jump when the face of a smiling cat appears out of thin air and faces me and my stupefied Alice. "You've grown so old, I see... And you've lost your old hat. Such a shame." He teases. I frown and was about to snap at him until his large green eyes befall on my wife. His smile widens even more. "Alice... It's so lovely to see you again..."

Suddenly terrified, Alice leans closer to me and hides her face. Chessur's smile fades a bit. "So, she doesn't remember me... How unfortunate."

"Who are you?" Stefan snaps out of his confusion and pulls his cousins behind him as he glares at the cat. I stare at Stefan firmly. "Stefan, stand down. He is a friend." I pause. "Somewhat." I add under my breath.

Lilia and Alicia suddenly shriek. Startled, we look at them and see as they are pointing at a small white mouse that was desperately trying to avoid their kicks. My heart nearly soared as soon as I made out its tiny outfit. "Mally!"

"Hatta!" She cries as soon as she runs up to me. I gently place Alice onto her wheelchair and pick the Dormouse up with both my hands. She hugs my face tightly and places kisses all over my cheeks and nose. "Hatta, I'm so sorry for everything I said! I shouldn't have called you selfish! I should have supported you when you left to go be with Alice! I was so stupid and selfish and angry and-"

"Mally, calm down." I gently place the tip of my finger over her tiny mouth to silence her. I smile kindly at her. I noticed that she had grown old and worn out from the last twenty years. But since time adjusted differently here compared to Earth, I could safely say that maybe it's been about thirty years since we left Wonderland. Poor Mally had matured so much. "There's nothing to forgive. We're home, now."

Mallymkun stops her sniffling and wipes her face before she nods. She looks down at Alice for a moment before she looks around at the children. "Well, it's good that you're both back... But who are these kids?"

I beamed at her. "Lilia and Alicia are our daughters, Joseph is a family friend, and do you remember Stefan?"

Her eyes widen in surprise before she burst into tears again. I was surprised by her sudden mood change. The last few years definitely changed her. "God, I was such a horrible friend to you! I wasn't even there for your own wedding or for the birth of your children!"

"Terrance, what is going on?" Alice finally snaps out of her confusion and holds a fierce look in her eyes. She was clearly demanding for answers. "Where are we? And who are these strange creatures?" She hesitates as her illness took a toll and she sat down with a groan. She looks around warily. "... Why does it feel like I've been here before?"

"Because you have, dear..." I finally sigh. "... You just forgot about it."

Alice is silent as she stares at me with the blankest expression on her face. I sigh again before I turn to Chessur. "Chess... Please alert Her Highness of our return. I'm afraid that I need to explain a lot of things to my family as we make our way to Marmoreal."

"Would you like the Bandersnatch to give you a ride? I could give a whistle and-"

"No." My answer was firm and pointed. "I don't think it's a good idea, what with the circumstances..."

Chessur is silent before he nods. He gives the children a wink before he disappears. There is silence before everyone looks at me expectantly. I force myself to smile as I clap my hands together. "Well, let's have a little tour, shall we? I promise that I'll explain everything along the way..."

:)(:

It took at least three hours to reach Marmoreal's gates by foot. I was thankful for Mallymkun's help getting there; I was slowly starting to forget about Underland's geography due to not being around for so long. By then, I had managed to answer all of their questions and tell them everything I knew about Alice's adventures here. No one said anything for the longest time since they were either processing the information or were enthralled by everything around them.

While the children somewhat accepted the story, the person who took it the hardest was Alice. She hadn't said anything for the longest time since we arrived in Marmoreal. She merely looked around on her wheelchair with an impassive look. I was almost nervous by her reaction. She didn't even smile when a huge crowd surrounded us and cheered for our return. The children nervously but politely greeted them while I forced myself and Alice into the throne room. We stopped as soon as we came up to the thrones. I was surprised to see Mirana's commanding officer sitting on a throne beside her own and another young man about Stefan's height sitting on her other side. Mirana looked like she was in her late forties but was still as graceful and beautiful as she had ever been. I took a formal bow while Alice looks around in bewilderment. She doesn't remember seeing so much white in her entire life.

Mirana stares at us for the longest time before she puts on a huge smile on her face. With her husband's help, she stands up and gracefully walks towards us. She gestures me to stand up and places a hand on Alice's shoulder. When she sees Alice's confused look, she frowns a bit but returns to smiling at me. "Tarrant, you have done well in caring for our Champion. Now she may be buried in our most sacred cemetery amongst the other past Champions." She was greatly surprised when she saw the children walking in with our more personal friends. The Tweedles have grown much taller and were about my height but were plumper than usual. Bayard and his wife were watching their grown up pups roaming around the children with old wise eyes. Thackery and McTwisp looked somewhat aged, as their voices were somewhat stretchy and croaky. Mallymkun had jumped off my shoulder earlier and was striding in with a handsome brown mouse beside her, much to my surprise. Chessur, who appeared out of nowhere again and made himself comfortable on Joseph's head, was the only person who had not changed.

Mirana's smile grows even bigger as she glances at me. "And you and your children shall prosper here in Marmoreal for the rest of your days. I will see to it that they will get the best education and training fit accordingly."

I greet the commanding officer (who was one of my close friends before I left), or rather, the White King before I focus on who is supposedly his and Mirana's son. She introduced the White Prince as Prince Gabriel. He had his mother's naturally pale complexion but his father's dark blue eyes and black hair. He had an aura of royalty but seemed gentle, firm, and polite. I noticed that he was gazing at Alicia in a peculiar matter when I introduced the children to the whole group. Alicia returned that curious gaze back and I couldn't help but snort to myself. Love at first sight already...

Soon we were all given our private rooms close to each other. I explained Alice's illness to Mirana and she took extra precautions to make Alice's last days as comfortable as possible. All the while, Alice still hasn't said anything. Although she now looks thoughtful and unsure at this point.

Tonight was the night that we all had dreaded for years now. I was alarmed when Alice began to cough violently and wouldn't respond to my questions. I sent for a doctor and immediately the children, Mirana, and several of our closest friends gathered around as he did his best to help. He stated that the virus had finally reached its highest point because of stress and anxiety. I began to weep, realizing that this was all my fault. However, Alice asked for a moment alone with me. As soon as everyone left, she reached out for me. She had stopped coughing but still breathed raggedly and had pale skin. However, I was stunned to see her eyes and smile glowing not from fear or distress, but from excitement and peace.

"Tarrant, my love..." I pause to look at her. Did she just call me by my old name...? "... I remember..."

I felt my heart stop. "You... You remember...?"

"Yes, I remember everything..." She murmurs. She winces at a sharp stab in her chest before she continues. "I remember how we first met... How I have slain the Jabberwocky... How I defeated Iracebeth... And the negotiation that lead to my banishment."

I knew that I had never called the Red Queen by her true name so I was absolutely stunned to know that she truly did remember. I cried again and was somewhat comforted by her hand caressing my cheek softly. "I'm so sorry that I have forgotten about you all..." She murmurs.

"... What is done is done, lass..." I manage to say as I held her hand with both my own. I gaze at my mother's ring in her finger and gently massage her palm. "I'm just glad that the Ancient Ancestors have given you that blessing... They truly are saints..."

Alice nods. I notice that she shed a small tear and wipe it away. "Don't be afraid lass..." I force myself to say. "Death... Is just a natural part of life."

"I'm not scared, Tarrant..." Alice says. Her voice grows sad as she looks at her lap. "... I'm just so sad that I will be forced to leave you and the girls behind so early. They're still so young... I may never be able to watch them grow up to become beautiful noble women... Or maybe start clans of their own..."

"Lass, you have nothing to fear." I held her hand tightly and gently tilt her head to make her look at me. "As long as I'm alive, I will always protect them. Mirana has said that she would do everything in her power to make sure that they will prosper well. Joseph and Stefan will also be here to help guard them; I know they will."

Alice closes her eyes and leans against her pillow. She sighs deeply. "... I know you all will... And that gives me peace..."

"... Then I am glad..." I feel more tears pouring out of my eyes as her breathing becomes slower. She opens her eyes again to gaze at me and places my hand against her chest. I look at her in surprise. "I love you... Always remember that."

"And I love you, Alice. Always have, and always will." I murmur.

We are silent for the longest time before she smiles at me. "Stay with me tonight?"

"Of course."

:)(:

She died approximately 11:37 that night. That's at least what the doctors were able to theorize. She just stopped breathing and her entire body shut down from exhaustion. I didn't pay too much attention to the details; I was wallowed in so much grief to bother listening to anyone.

The funeral was sad but beautiful. As promised, Mirana had performed it flawlessly and we buried Alice in the highest hill of the cemetery. The White Queen allowed her husband to do the honor to implant the Vopal Sword above its owner's grave. Just as the Oraculum has prophesized so long ago...

We all wore black for the occasion. I was amazed by how strong Lilia and Alicia were during the funeral. They cried but had Gabriel and Joseph nearby. Joseph allowed Lilia to cry onto his shoulder while Gabriel wrapped a comforting arm around Alicia's arm and smiles compassionately. She was surprised by his bold movement but appreciated his concern. Stefan merely lowered his head in respect for his aunt's memory.

I didn't hold back my tears during the whole ceremony. We all expressed our thoughts concerning our Champion and savior. Everyone was greatly saddened by her departure and thought so kindly of her. I burst into tears when Mallymkun gave her own speech about how she always thought Alice as a brave woman who unselfishly defended a world she would always believe in.

Days after that were eventless at first. Soon things returned to normal, or as good as they could be. Mirana then assigned different duties to the children based on their talent as well as educational studies.

Joseph would help around the castle with miscellaneous tasks, but he gotten quite good at giving advice for interior decorating. He also has gotten quite good with making new recipes, thanks to Lilia and Thackery's influence.

Lilia was given everything she asked for to make improvements for new inventions that would benefit other kingdoms. She's currently working on a machine that would effortlessly fly messages to and from around Wonderland to speed up the time and put less effort for everyone else. I was pleased that she would go outside at least once in a while to get some fresh air. I was not surprised to find out that she would mostly go on strolls or horseback riding with Joseph. It was no shock to know that they had started courting.

Alicia and Stefan both fought over the Champion title. Stefan insisted that he should be the one to do it since he was the last Kingsley of the family (although when we got back, I decided to change the girls' surnames to Kingsleigh in memory of their mother and took back my birth name) while Alicia stated that her influence would help improve strategies for combat training. They had the typical love-hate relationship that siblings would have. Eventually their quarrelling got Mirana involved and she offered a new solution. Stefan would take the role as Champion while Alicia would travel around Wonderland and help flourish the Outlands to expand our world into a better place. Alicia would still receive personal military training and earn a title as Guardian of Underland, just under Champion of Underland. It wasn't a total loss for her, so she accepted this new offer. Her influence indeed changed some morals amongst the noble and military codes and Stefan has proved himself a true Champion when he succeeded all his small tasks. I still wasn't surprised to know that Prince Gabriel had taken a romantic interest in Alicia and asked permission to court her. I gave them my blessings.

I took back my role as Mirana's personal tailor. I was so happy to take the job as it made time pass by faster than ever. I was even happier to be permitted to wear my old clothes and favorite hat. My uniform was small, but it wasn't something that I couldn't easily fix up. I have never felt such a relief in being back to my normal self.

Throughout the next several months, we would always stop by Alice's grave at least once every other day to simply talk to her. I knew that she would have been so proud of her children's accomplishments. It still hurt me to know that I wouldn't see her again for a long time.

She was gone... And she was so far away from us...

... But at least she had died peacefully and is reunited with her beloved family once more. She will never have to suffer from anything else again...

... She would simply wait for us to join her when our own time came, but not quite yet. We still have so much to get done before we could even consider resting.

Alice would always be remembered for being a wonderful wife, mother, aunt, friend, and godmother.

She was a strong woman with good morals and the purest heart.

She was a fierce fighter that never gave up even at the most hopeless times.

She was the love of my life and the angel who we all prayed for that would watch over us.

She was our savior...

Our selfless martyr...

Our watchful guardian...

Underland's Champion.

Overall, I am quite happy by how this ending turned out. As I said before, I am not making a sequel for this. I don't feel like it needs one; Alice's story is officially done.

Be sure to petition against the CISPA debate! Please! We need at least 10,000 more votes by Friday!

I said this in the last chapter so I'll say it again...

So leave comments, please! How was the ending? Did you all like this story; I sure had fun with it and am pleased by how it has turned out! I'll probably be focusing on The Chosen One and another Danny Phantom upcoming story; if you're interested, leave a vote on my poll!

Thank you all for your support, both for my service in the military and for making this story. I wish you all the best. Farewell, and good luck with future stories or with your futures!