Chapter One Hundred One- "The 'Romeo and Juliet' Game"

After seeing the tire swing Mike built for Snow, Lily suggested that maybe they could build a wooden swing for the hickory tree...one large enough for two perhaps. Nigel was all too happy to volunteer to help her with the project. As they began construction on the new wooden swing, Lily couldn't imagine what Thomas and Dinger could be discussing so intently as she watched them on the porch over across the way. Glancing over at them every now and then, they seemed to be engaged in a rather serious conversation. Nigel couldn't help but notice her continual distraction and offered with some joviality, "You needn't worry about Thomas 'watching over' you. I promise I'll keep my hands to myself, Lily." Lily looked over at him, then catching his meaning regarding what happened with Karen, "I know, Nigel. I'm not worried about that, really. Sorry I got distracted." Nigel smirked in his next thought as he picked up the last of the wooden slats for the swing, "So, you and ol' Thomas seem to be pretty serious, eh?" Not looking at him, Lily casually fumbled with the rope they would use to tie up the swing, "We're just good friends is all." Nigel raised an eyebrow, "Just good friends? Well, it seems as though your friendship is causing a lot of question where Neville is concerned. I thought you and Neville were dating?" Quickly, Lily snapped up to look at him. Suddenly, she felt quite guilty, as she realized that she hadn't spent much time with Neville lately at all. She wondered what he must think, "Well, yes. Why? Did Neville say something to you about us?" Nigel thought back to that day when he heard Lily's confession to Karen in the surgery. While they both thought Nigel asleep, he overheard Lily confide in Karen about her actions with Neville, while at same time thinking she was truly in love with Thomas. Nigel cleared his throat and curtailed his smile as he sensed her apprehension to the subject, "Well, not exactly. But you can see it in his eyes...you know, the concern when he sees you with Thomas. After all, don't you think you should make a choice between the two of them? Neville may be a little daft at times, but he isn't stupid. He's going to become overly-suspicious before too long. In lieu of that, maybe you should talk to him about it." Nigel lifted the swing while Lily climbed the tree to tie the ropes. She tied them in the knots Neville taught her for tying up boats, "Well, no offense of course Nigel, but maybe you should mind your own business." He smirked at her spunk, for if he had his way, he'd have Lily all to himself, "Well, you know I'm of the opinion you should ditch them both and fancy up with me." She gave him half a smile as she shook her head, "I will keep that in mind, Nigel." She then allowed him to help her down from the tree. From a glance over to Thomas, she was pleased to see him watching the two of them at that moment with a protective eye.

The celebration for Dinger and Karen continued throughout the evening as the various couples ate, drank and danced. Snow and Mike chuckled at Jennifer's futile attempt to teach Duncan a more modern style of dancing, while Edward willed himself to not look in Mike and Snow's direction. Snow cheerfully approached Karen and Dinger, "Would you two like something to drink, like some punch?" She then looked at Karen, "It's not spiked or anything." Karen smiled, "No, but thank you Snow. I think I'll be floating out of here from all the punch everyone's been bringing me. Oh!" Karen quickly touched her stomach and with eyes wide, flashed a quick smile to Dinger. A splash of delight crossed his face, "Is it the baby? Is she kickin' again?" Quickly, Karen looked back to Snow with apprehension as Dinger reached for her stomach and cupped it with his hand, "Yep, there she goes! I think this girl's gonna be a soccer player or somethin'!" Snow's eyes glowed with excitement as she asked quietly, "May I?" Karen nodded and Snow put her hand on Karen's stomach, "Oh my goodness! It's the baby for certain! I can feel it right there...it's really fussing!" "SHE's really fussin'," Dinger added as Karen threw him a warning look. He shrugged in reply, "What? I've already told ya I'm sure it's a girl...and Snow's right. She's really fussin'!"

Nigel finally grew tired of Natalie rejecting his advances in her feeble attempt to pursue a 'taken' man, namely Dinger. In his surrender, he spotted something that peaked his interests over and above the fickle Natalie. After promising Neville that she'd show him the new swing later on in the evening, Lily persuaded him to get them both a mug of Ben's ever-so-popular ale as he'd been so kind to make for the party. Seizing his opportunity as he noticed Thomas again speaking with Dinger, Nigel asked Lily to dance. Timing was on his side, as the music of choice was changed to a waltz per Yvonne's suggestion. Yvonne thought this may be a relief to Duncan after stumbling through Jennifer's choice of dance. Nigel himself was delighted to take Lily in his arms for such a waltz. Her softness under his arm, her light floral scent...there was something about Lily that was so different from Natalie, he thought. And although Natalie was supposedly 'available', it grates on one's nerves at times to know that she's in fact 'available' to every man in sight. In Nigel's mind, Lily too was 'available' in a sense. Somehow, if he could find just the right way to convince her that both Thomas and Neville were all wrong for her and that he himself was her 'Mr. Right', life could be heaven on earth to be sure, Nigel thought. It was at that moment that Nigel began to devise a plan to do just that...convince Lily that he should be her choice over the others. "May I cut in?" Nigel's thoughts were interrupted by a stern looking Thomas who stood awaiting his turn with Lily. Nigel offered a polite yet insincere smile, "Of course." Tom took Lily in his arms with a purpose and held her close to him. Snow, who had been looking on, was somewhat relived to see the 'cut-in' by Thomas. She knew it was unfair of her, but still it would take her some time to be able to trust Nigel again...especially when it came to her sister. Tom put his face close to Lily's ear and whispered to her where no one else could hear, "You told me you didn't want to dance, yet here you are dancing with Nigel of all people." As he spun her away from Neville, who'd just re-entered the room with their ale, Lily apologized, "Yes, I know...but what could I do? It was just a dance, and I couldn't be rude. I just didn't want Neville to see us dancing together...just as we are now, I might add." Tom tutted with annoyance, "I thought you were going to tell him about us. I'm growing tired of playing this game of 'Romeo and Juliet' where we must hide our feelings for one another." Lily puled back slightly to look at him, "Thomas, please don't push me. I don't want to hurt his feelings. I just need to find the right time...that's all." The two were startled as Neville suddenly appeared before them, "Aye, Thomas. May I?" Hiding his frustration, Thomas smiled and bowed Lily over to Neville. He sighed heavily as he walked into the kitchen. "So," Neville looked dreamily into Lily's eyes as he pulled her close, "When were you going to show me that new swing?" Lily paused for a moment, as she realized that all were present at the party. This would give her the perfect opportunity to tell Neville about she and Thomas...just the two of them at the swing. It was not something she was looking forward to doing...breaking Neville's heart. But she knew she must tell him the truth.

"This construction is pretty good. So Nigel was responsible for this, eh?" Lily nodded, "I helped with the painting. And then I climbed the tree to tie the ropes of course." Neville tugged on one of the ropes, "I see you remember the knots I told you about." "Of course. You said they were the best." Neville looked at Lily and grinned as he then pulled her close, "No, you're the best, Lily." Softly, he caressed her face with his hand and gently kissed her cheek. 'This is going to be even harder than I thought,' Lily said to herself. Slowly, she pulled away, "Have a seat, Neville. Try it out." They both sat on the swing and casually rocked it to and fro. "Gentle enough to lull you to sleep, isn't it?" Neville put his arm around Lily, "It's very romantic. I could easily fall asleep here in your arms. Of course, I'd rather not fall asleep right away, Lily." Lily became more nervous by the second, as Neville leaned in closer to her. He was about to kiss her for sure. She knew she must act quickly, "Neville, there's something I need to talk to you about." Neville brushed his hand through her hair and continued his dreamy trance into her eyes, "Yes?" "Well, it's about you and I." Neville's grin grew larger and he leaned in and began kissing her neck, "Sounds good to me." Lily swallowed hard, "Well, see I..." Suddenly, there was a lot of bustling going on over by the barn. Lily stopped and looked over to see Duncan and Ivan assisting Dinger onto Ivan's horse. They seemed to be in quite a hurry with a lot of barking of orders going on. Neville also pulled back at the apparent bustle, "What on earth is going on over there?" As Lily watched Dinger and the others urgently ride away, Lily sighed knowing that this wouldn't be the right time to tell Neville about Thomas, "I don't know. But we'd better go and find out." As the two rose and headed for the hut, while Lily felt a disappointment in not keeping her promise to Tom, she felt a relief in not having to yet break Neville's heart.

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Chapter One Hundred Two- "Sweet Dreams"

Thomas was exhausted. He knew he owed Duncan and Bart considerably for helping him re-paint the mill floor. After stripping the old paint off and priming the surface, now they just needed to lie down the new coat, let it dry and it would be done. Once again his and Raif's bathroom plumbing was acting up, forcing Tom to have to bathe in the guest bedroom of the hut. Raif was in no hardship himself thought Thomas, as he entered the empty cabin. For his roommate was no doubt at Natalie's. Too tired to hunt down his nightclothes, he simply grabbed a clean pair of boxers instead and collapsed into the bed. As soon as his head hit the pillow, it didn't take but a few seconds for Tom to fall fast asleep. Sometime in the wee hours of the night, Thomas awoke. He felt cramped in his small twin bed, more cramped than usual. Gathering his senses, he could feel a presence behind him. Someone was lying beside him in the bed. Beth! Or Margurite, rather. Tom was horrified at the thought...but at the same time, he knew the village was eager to finally kidnap this witch once and for all. He took a deep breath to prepare himself to quickly turn and pin Margurite to the bed. What to do after that, he hadn't a clue. As he turned with arms prepared to grab his visitor, he stopped dead in his tracks. It wasn't Margurite at all...it was Lily! He had stopped his pounce so quickly, that he had to grab the headboard with his hands in order to not land directly atop of her. He didn't want to wake her. It was like a dream come true having her here beside him once again. Gently, he touched her face as he nestled back down beside her. At his touch, she smiled in her sleep. Softly, he massaged her arm and back as he watched her sleep. Slowly, she opened her eyes and then smiled when she saw him, "It's really you." She leaned up on her elbow, as Tom continued to lovingly stroke her arm, "I sleepwalked again, I guess. I started to have that nightmare again...but this time it was with Rumple instead of Phillipe. And something else was different...you were there. You came and saved me." She reached up and touched his face, "You can even turn my nightmares into sweet dreams, Thomas. And now, here I wake up to your smiling face." Thomas turned his head to kiss her palm, "What is sweet, is waking up with you next to me, Lily. I wish it could happen every day." Lily paused as she looked into his eyes. Then she rubbed his lips with her fingers. Thomas gently put his hand behind her head and pulled her into a kiss. She put her arms around his neck as Thomas slowly lowered her to the bed. Now fully aware of his arousal for her, Lily was also suddenly aware of the thin boxers being Tom's only adornment. Thinking back, the only time she'd ever seen Tom without his shirt was on that cold night when she fell through the ice. With the incident being so clouded in her mind, Lily now pulled back from him slightly to admire his bare chest in the dim light of Raif's awaiting lantern on the other side of the room. The faint beams of light glistened gently off the golden hairs on Tom's chest. His loving expression seemed to be searching hers for an answer...an answer to the question that he dare not ask, especially with all she had been through. To Lily, no words were needed as she smiled up at him and ran her hands down his chest. Her eyes shined her approval as she brushed her leg against his, and then gently pulled his head down to kiss her. She wore a soft satin nightgown that stopped just above her knees. As Thomas gently brushed his hand against her leg, he slowly rose her gown upward. 'Slam!' The door to his cabin slammed loudly startling them both. As Tom quickly rolled over and sat up in his bed, Lily purposefully rolled off the bed and onto the floor out of sight. "Raif, what the devil?" "Oh, sorry Tom. I wasn't thinking. I'm just angry." With great annoyance, Thomas tutted, "Well, what is it? You practically took out the cabin with the force you just put on that door!" Raif sighed as he plopped down on his bed, "It's Natalie. She's mad. I didn't even do anything! I think she's just all upset by this whole Phillipe/Rumple thing." Tom pulled up on his sheet to assure that his arousal was covered, "So what happened?" Raif started to pull off his shoes, "Oh, I'm sure it's something I can get patched up in the morning." Tom gained a hopeful plea in his voice, "Maybe you should go on back over there now? There's no time like the present." Lily had to stifle a giggle. "And you know, they tell married couples to never sleep on an unresolved argument. Trust me...that advice worked wonders for me." Tom felt himself willing Raif to agree as he clenched his fist in a silent pleading. Lily herself wondered how many arguments Thomas and Beth had that they worked out before bedtime...and on that note, did they work them out IN bed? Raif gave a heavy sigh, "Nah. I don't think going over there before she's had time to cool off would be such a good idea. And in case you haven't noticed...Natalie and I are NOT married. I'll just work it out with her in the morning." Thomas thought Raif would surely work things out with Natalie in the morning...in more ways than one. But this didn't help Tom any, as he turned and collapsed face forward down onto his bed, his head hanging over the edge where Lily was hiding. He adamantly thought to himself that it was time he moved into one of the empty cabins now that the weather had gotten warmer. His disappointment was then suddenly masked, as he felt Lily's kiss meet his lips. Quietly, he eagerly responded. Lily reached up and rubbed his shoulders, then his back as she kissed him. Once again, Tom felt himself pressing into the bed and knew he had to stop. Slowly, he backed away from the kiss and took Lily's hands in his as he shook his head. He then motioned back to his roommate, whom he now loathed at the moment. Lily nodded in understanding. Then he motioned toward the cabin door and sat up in his bed, "Raif, I'm going outside for some air." "OK," came Raif's reply. Raif had forgotten to put out his lantern, but luckily he lie facing the opposite side of the room allowing Lily and Tom's escape. After grabbing a robe for them both, Thomas gently closed the door and quietly led Lily off of the porch. She then hugged him tightly. "I'm sorry, Thomas." He pressed her in close, "Me too...believe me." In their embrace, she looked up at the moon, "The moon is so beautiful. It looks like it will be full in just a few more days." Slowly, he pulled back to look at her, "Yes, but it will never be as beautiful as you, Lily." He gazed into her eyes and wanted desperately to kiss her the way he did inside the cabin, but he knew that would only make things worse for himself. Instead he squeezed her hand and walked her back to she and Yvonne's cabin. He then gave her a gentle goodnight kiss and watched her close the door behind her. As he walked back to his own cabin he thought to himself how it never fails...he and Lily are constantly being interrupted. 'It must be something about the White family,' thought Tom as he remembered Mike complaining of the same problem with he and Snow. As he looked up at the almost full moon, he remembered what Lily had said. "Hmmmmm..." He then pondered the idea of a full moon. It would probably only be another day and he and the other men could get the rest of the mill floor painted. By the time the moon was full, the paint should be dry. Yes, perfect! He would ask Lily out on a special date for the coming night when the moon was full.

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Chapter One Hundred Three- "The Trap"

As Thomas read his checklist aloud to himself, he actually felt nervous, yet he hadn't even asked Lily on the date yet, "Candles, wine, flowers," he then choked on the word, "...blankets..." 'Blankets...is that too forward?' Thomas thought. 'Well, we would at least need something to sit on, right?' He smiled in approval as he continued writing on his list, "...check to be sure the final coat of paint is dry and remember to tell Travis to stay the hell away from the mill tomorrow evening!" He then paused and swallowed hard as he pondered the idea that he ought to bring some of those...what was it the men called them? 'Johnnies'? 'Sounds more like a boy's name than an object used to curtail pregnancy,' he thought to himself as he added it to the list. "Good morning, Thomas." Whirling around, Thomas could feel himself turn bright red, as he heard Lily's voice behind him. He was suddenly appalled at himself. Here he was making a checklist for a date with her that included 'explicit' items on it. As he turned to see her sweet smiling face, he felt terribly ashamed of his thoughts in planning. In his embarrassment, he dropped the checklist. His breath escaped him as Lily watched the paper drift slowly to his feet and then started to retrieve it, "Oh, you dropped something." Thinking quickly of any action he could take in order to ensure that Lily did not see the contents of that paper, he knelt down in sync with her and promptly grabbed her and kissed her. As he did so, he scooped up the list in his hand and shoved it into his pocket. Pulling back from the kiss, Lily blushed and smiled, as Thomas sputtered his apologies, "I...I'm sorry Lily. You just look so beautiful this morning and I've missed you so much since last night. I haven't stopped thinking about you." Lily smiled and looked to the ground shyly, as she dug a small trail in the dirt with her foot, "Me too, Thomas." Putting his hand in his pocket, his fingers brushed against his checklist and the disturbing thought suddenly occurred to him, "Lily, the other night at Karen and Dinger's party, I noticed you went outside to talk to Neville. I...I was just wondering if everything was...was alright about all that now, you know?" Lily blinked, as she was afraid he was going to ask about that, "Yes, I did talk to Neville." "So everything is alright, then?" She swallowed hard, "Alright? Well, yes of course." She lied. She didn't know what else to say. She would tell Neville when the time was right, but in the meantime, she didn't want this issue to come between she and Thomas any longer. He just didn't know all of the circumstances with she and Neville...which is something else she was going to have to address very soon. Tom them smiled at her confirmation and cleared his throat, "I was wondering...if you'd care to go on a date tomorrow night...just the two of us?" He suddenly felt stupid...'just the two of us'? What other kind of date was there? Lily didn't seem fazed by his choice of words at all, "I'd love to." Thomas smiled in relief, "How about after dinner? I thought we might start with a walk...and perhaps talk?" "Sounds lovely. I'm looking forward to it." This would be it, Lily thought. She would tell him tomorrow night...she would tell him everything. Just the thought of it made her nervous, and she was eager to get to the hut, "I was just off to breakfast...are you coming?" Thomas hoped his nervousness didn't show in his voice, "I'll be right there." As he watched Lily walk away from the shop and out of sight, he kicked at the dirt, "A walk? And just to talk? Argh! Thomas, she either thinks you're a lame wanker or else I may scare her to death once we get to the mill. Either way, I'm sunk for certain!"

"Are you sure this will work?" Edward winced in his chair as he and the men went over the plan to capture Margurite. Duncan handed Ed a small vile, "Of course. Here is the herbal sleeping mixture from Jennifer. All you have to do is invite Margurite, or Gaveston rather, in for some wine and slip this in her drink. She will soon fall asleep." Eddy muttered under his breath, "Not soon enough for me." Duncan motioned to Bartolome with a pat on the back, "Now Bart will be staying the night here in the guest bedroom of the hut, so that you will have the cabin all to yourselves. You won't have any interruptions." Eddy sighed without enthusiasm, "Joy." "Edward remember, this is very important to us...all of us. We need to ensure that this witch is captured and is no longer able to wreak havoc on our lives." Edward tutted, "What are you going to do with her anyway?" Duncan paused before offering, "We're not certain yet...but rest assured Edward, just do your part and then we'll do ours." Edward glared at the vile with a scowl as he got up from his seat and looked back at Duncan with concern in his eyes, "Do we have any kind of backup plan?" Duncan looked to Ribold who merely shrugged. Suddenly, Raif grew a large grin and approached Eddy, handing him something from his pocket, "Sure...here's you a 'backup plan', Ed." Edward grunted as he peered down at the condom in his hand.

The village was quiet that evening, as everyone knew to stay inside as much as possible in order to not ward away Margurite from visiting Edward. His breath seemed shallow, as he sat on his porch awaiting his visitor. His hands were restless, as were his feet, as they tapped an erratic rhythm on the wooden slats below. His mind was clouded with thoughts of doubt. 'What if she doesn't come tonight? What if she decides to pose as Beth and visit Thomas instead? What if she suspects what I'm doing? What if she really wants to...' His thoughts were interrupted by the low and familiar voice of his friend from a previous life, "Evenin' Edward." Shuddering in surprise, Eddy looked up to see Gaveston smiling down at him. Once again, he had to make the conscious effort to tell himself that this was indeed Margurite and not Gaveston. He quickly rose as Gaveston motioned to the door, "May I come in?" Edward nodded and gave a nervous smile as he opened the door and followed Gaveston in. "So Ed, it's been a long time. I've missed you." Stuttering, Ed concentrated to remember his duties in the 'plan' as he walked to the nightstand, "Would...would you like some wine?" Gaveston smiled cheekily and strode over next to him, "Love some." Edward made a conscious effort not to shudder in the witch's presence, as this would surely give him away. But as Gaveston stood there so close to him, it would be impossible for him to slip the potion into her glass without her noticing. Taking a deep breath, he remembered what the men are always so quick to mention to him...that the queen has the 'hots' for him anyway. With this in mind, he turned and acted in as casual a manner as he possibly could. Smiling, he touched Gaveston's arm, "It's a long way from the kingdom. You must be tired. Please have a seat." As Gaveston again grinned and turned to go and sit down, Eddy quickly dumped the contents of Jennifer's vile into Gaveston's wine glass. He swished it around in the glass as he walked back toward the small couch. As he sat next to the queen, it occurred to him that some folks call these small couches 'love seats'. At this thought, he couldn't help but shudder, spilling a little of the wine on the 'love seat', "Oh no! Bugger! I'm sorry. I'll get a towel." As Edward rushed into the bathroom, he took another deep breath, willing himself to take it easy. As he'd just about composed himself to return, he heard the voice in the next room, "Ed, I know it's been a while, but we've been close a long time. You don't have to be so nervous around me, you know." Ed almost chuckled in thinking how very untrue that statement was! Smiling, he returned from the bathroom with a towel and began dabbing the spill, "I know. But I guess it's still just a little strange is all." Gaveston smiled and nodded in understanding, then raised his glass, "How about a toast?" Edward did the same. "Alright." "To us...may we become closer than ever before." With this he clinked Edward's glass and drank. Edward found discomfort in his words, wondering what the 'ever before' was supposed to mean...but then found his wits about him again as he watched Gaveston drink down the tainted liquid. He then drank his own, so as to not look suspicious. Gaveston set down his glass and propped his elbow up on the back of the seat between them, "So, you must be surprised to see me." Ed coughed slightly and set down his glass, "Well, it isn't the first time I've seen you here in the Willows. You gave me quite a shock. I don't suppose you'd like to tell me how you got here and why?" With his arm propped up on the love seat, Gaveston reached over and toyed with Ed's shirt collar, "Not really...not now anyway. Can't you think of anything better to talk about? I can." Ed pulled back slightly, causing the queen to lose her hold on his shirt, "No, really. I'd like to know, Gaveston. You have to admit it's quite a..." He shook his head, suddenly, "...a feat." What was happening? All of a sudden, he felt dizzy. He closed his eyes and then opened them again to find Gaveston still smiling at him, "What's wrong, Ed?" "I don't know...I just feel dizzy all the sudden." Gaveston stood up and helped Edward to his feet, "Here...let's get you over here to lie down. We don't want you to fall on your face." He helped a woozy Edward over to the bed and sat him down. Then, as Edward tried to violently blink off the dizziness, Gaveston bent down to look him in the eyes and whispered, "You think I didn't know about the wine? I'm not that naïve, Edward. I switched the glasses while you were in the bathroom." Edward looked at her horrified. "But don't worry...I won't take advantage of you or anything. I'm you're friend, remember? I wouldn't do that. Now, you just rest. I'll take care of everything." Edward tried so hard to fight the wooziness, but it zapped all of his energy. And while he was not asleep yet, he felt so weak and tipsy, he could hardly move. Gaveston removed Ed's shoes and shirt and helped him under the covers. He then sat on the edge of the bed and leaned over him, "You've no idea how attracted to you I am, do you?" Edward could hear Gaveston's voice very faintly as it faded into a hollow hum within his ears. He closed his eyes and suddenly felt so light, yet still felt as if the room were spinning. He wasn't even quite sure of where he was anymore. He could almost hear the babbling of the stream and feel the cool water rushing past his feet as he waded into it. Gaveston leaned down closer to whisper, "So is it all coming back to you now...you and I? Being together? Wouldn't you like it to be that way again?" Gently, she kissed him. As she rose from the kiss, she observed his lips curl up into a dreamy smile. Grinning herself, she was about to kiss him again, but was then startled by Edward's last word into slumber...a word that made the witch shudder, "Snow..."

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Chapter One Hundred Four- "Blue Moon--part I"

"So you don't remember anything?" Duncan paced the floor as he carried out an almost 'Dinger-style' interrogation on Edward while Dinger was still gone with Kahlua. "No. She switched the glasses when I wasn't looking and I fell asleep. When I woke up this morning, she was gone." "Terrific!" Duncan rolled his eyes and angrily paced to the back of the room. Calmly, Jennifer approached Ed, "Are ya sure ya don't remember an'thing? Like 'bout what was said or an'thing?" "No." Edward did remember a particular dream he had about a particular member of the Willows, but of course he didn't feel like that was worth mentioning. "She figured out about the wine...she saw through the whole thing." The little dwarf chuckled, "Man Ed! You know, you'd never make it as an actor!" Duncan seethed with a surrendering gesture, "So we're back where we started from." Ben turned to Duncan as he gave Max a pat, "No offense, but that loft is gettin' awful uncomfortable. I think I'll take my chances at the mine. I can just sneak in without her seeing me and see if she's still there." The Major shook his head in disapproval, "It's too dangerous, Ben. At least wait until tomorrow. Some of us will go with you for some added support." Ben sighed and nodded in agreement. As Nigel entered the hut, he tried hard to hide his smirk. For he'd just overheard a most interesting conversation between Thomas and Travis. Tom asked Travis to give the generator a rest for the evening...that he had other 'plans' for the mill tonight. As Nigel entered the kitchen for a drink, he happened to run into the one person he hoped to find. "Neville...just who I wanted to see! So what are your plans for the evening?" "Nothing much." Nigel poured himself a mug of ale, "Splendid. I've been quite curious about that generator contraption lately, and I thought maybe you and I could go and take a look? I know you've seen a little on how it works." "Well actually, Travis could better tell ya..." Nigel interrupted, "Travis has other plans tonight, I believe. I just want to have a look. What do ya say?"

The full moon was beautiful. Lily couldn't think of a more perfect night for her date with Thomas. But how would it end? For tonight she would definitely tell Thomas about Neville...about how they'd slept together in the loft that day when she misread Thomas' feelings for her. Even though she'd cared for Neville a great deal, she was truly in love with Thomas. That day, the thought of him not loving her in return was so painful, she found her comfort in the arms of Neville. She'd wanted to belong to someone in love rather than in betrayal so desperately. But would Thomas understand? Would he forgive her? She truly hoped so...she didn't know what she'd do if he rejected her now. She wore the brand new dress her sister had made for her and let her long golden hair hang loosely over her shoulders and down her back. She twisted a small clump of it in her fingers as she waited for Tom in her cabin. Now that Stevie and Ritchie had returned while Dinger had taken Kahlua out of the Willows, Yvonne was back in their own cabin knitting a baby outfit for Karen rather than visiting at Duncan's. A knock at the door broke Lily of her thoughts and she sprang from her chair and over to the door. She opened it with a smile as she greeted Thomas. "Good evening, Lily...good evening, Yvonne." Yvonne smiled and waved, and Tom offered Lily his arm, "Shall we?" As they were leaving, little Gypsy tried to follow behind, "No, no. You have to stay here, little one." The light of the full moon was so bright, it was almost like the light of dawn, as the trees and ground glowed with a gentle softness in its brilliance. As they reached the edge of the village, Thomas smiled and turned to her, "I have a surprise for you." He led her to the mill. The large one-room building glowed with candles illuminating off of the freshly painted floor. In the corner sat the CD boombox that Lily loved so much. On the hearth sat a basket surrounded by fresh flowers nestled with a bottle of wine and two glasses. "Thomas, this is lovely!" Tom beamed a smile as he went to pour them each a glass of wine. Lily came and sat with him on the pillows next to the hearth as Tom handed her the glass, "To us." Thomas found himself lost in her eyes and gently took her glass and set them both down. He took her hands in his, "I don't quite know what to say, and I'm not going to be forward. I just want you to know that I feel like the luckiest man alive to be here with you right now." Lily smiled and bit her lip. The temptation was great for Thomas, but he resisted as he rose and approached the CD boombox. "I thought some music would be nice. Perhaps we could dance." Lily smiled and stood, "That sounds lovely." Thomas started the music as Lily picked up the wine glasses from the floor so they wouldn't get knocked over. Thomas then moved the pillows back for them to have more room to dance, but as he turned, he bumped into Lily with the glasses, spilling wine all over his shirt, "Oh, Thomas--I'm sorry!" "No, it's my fault...I should have known you were there." Quickly, Thomas grabbed a towel from the basket and began to dab off his shirt. "Heck of a way to start the date, eh?" Lily giggled, "It's alright. But I hope you can get these stains out. You should probably get this into water right away. With the stream right outside, we could soak it and then perhaps the stain wouldn't set." Lily innocently began to unbutton Tom's shirt. Startled, he watched her but said nothing. The thought didn't dawn on Lily until she began to help him untuck the shirt from his trousers and she stopped, "I'm sorry...this is rather forward of me. Really, I wasn't meaning anything by it." Tom winked and smiled, "I know." Although, deep inside he wished that she did. They hung the shirt out in the stream to soak and returned inside. "So how about that dance?" Tom put on a soothing instrumental song played by an instrument called a 'saxophone'. Ritchie once told him how romantic the sound of such an instrument is. As he and Lily slowly moved across the floor, Thomas realized just how true Ritchie's words had been. Thomas felt warm to Lily, as her arms touched the bare skin of his shoulders. She felt him kiss her neck and she closed her eyes. 'Now,' she thought. 'I must tell him now.' Of course she knew that there would surely be no quicker way to kill the mood. As his touch tantalized her, she found her mind procrastinating her words more and more as she began kissing his neck in return. It was only when she realized that he'd begun to unbutton her blouse, that she told herself it must be now. She pulled back slightly, "Thomas, wait." Tom stopped, and with a jerk he quickly retreated his hands away, "Lily, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to do anything without your permission..." "No, you do have my permission. It's just that I must tell you something first...or else I just couldn't live with myself." Tom cupped his hand under her cheek, "What is it, love?" Lily took a deep breath...how could she even start? Tom took her hands and motioned for them both to sit down. "This is really hard for me...because once I tell you, you might very well walk out of here and never speak to me again." Kissing her hand, he chuckled slightly, "Lily, there is nothing you could tell me that would make me do that." Again, she took a deep breath, "Do you remember the day I sprained my ankle, and we hid from Phillipe," her voice grew softer as she lowered her head in remembering, "or Rumple rather, under the bridge?" "Yes." "Well, when we were at the mill, I thought..." Her voice trailed off as Thomas remembered what happened. She'd mistaken his feelings and thought he didn't want her. Of course nothing was farther from the truth. He wanted her then, just as he wanted her now. "Well, see I was upset and I..." Suddenly, the mill door opened followed by Nigel and Neville. Thomas was quite irritated while Lily was horrified. Neville stood speechless as his eyes moved back and forth between a shirtless Thomas and Lily with her blouse unbuttoned halfway down. The wine, the music, pillows...it was even better than Nigel had hoped as he wore a huge smirk. Quickly, Lily ran to turn off the music while Thomas ranted, "What the hell are you doing here? Why are you two at the mill this late in the evening?" Neville glared at him, "Maybe I should be asking you that question." "Well, I'd appreciate it greatly if you two would please leave." Neville looked to Lily with pain in his eyes, "Lily? What's going on? What are you doing here with Thomas?" Lily's mouth was so dry, she tried to lick her lips as she stuttered, "Neville, I...I was going to tell you, but I never had the chance." Tom look to her in surprise, "Never had the chance? You told me yesterday that you talked to him?" "Yes, but I didn't get a chance to tell him everything." Neville folded his arms, "Tell me what?" He waited, although he was deathly afraid of the answer. Nigel elbowed him, "You know, Nev. You had your 'roll in the hay' with her, so to speak...now it's ol' Tom's turn." Neville exploded back at him loudly, "Sod off, Nigel!" Lily felt her heart drop to the floor as she watched the horrified expression wash over Tom.

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Chapter One Hundred Five- "Blue Moon--part II"

Neville folded his arms, "Tell me what?" He waited, although he was deathly afraid of the answer. Nigel elbowed him, "You know, Nev. You had your 'roll in the hay' with Lily, so to speak...now it's ol' Tom's turn." Neville exploded back at him loudly, "Sod off, Nigel!" Lily felt her heart drop to the floor as she watched the horrified expression wash over Thomas. He looked to Lily as if to expect a sincere denial to Nigel's brutal lie, "Thomas, I was trying to tell you. Just now...I was trying to explain..." Nigel spouted rudely as he folded his arms, "I'm sure he couldn't hear much while he was groping at your breasts." "Sod off, Nigel!" Thomas stepped up to him quickly as if he were about to punch him. Neville grabbed Lily's arm gently, "Lily, what does this mean? What are you saying?" As Lily shook her head, words escaped her while tears streamed down her face. "I thought we had something special, Lily...that day in the loft? We need each other." Nigel folded his arms in thorough enjoyment of his torment, "Oh she needed you alright...she needed a substitute at the time. And there you were..." Words finally found their way to Lily's lips as she screamed, "Sod off, Nigel!" Thomas turned her around to face him. Tears were stinging his eyes, "Lily, did you sleep with Neville?" "Thomas, if you'd just let me explain..." "Did you?" Lily whimpered and then softly whispered, "Yes." Without a word, Thomas turned on his heel and stormed out of the mill. "Thomas!" As Lily tried to go after him, Neville grabbed her arm, "Wait! A substitute? Is that all I was to you, Lily? A substitute for Thomas?" Lily shook her head, but again was unable to get the words out. Neville nodded his head in understanding, and slowly turned and left the mill. Still smirking, Nigel tutted, "You know, I tried to warn you, Lily...to tell Neville about everything. I suppose you should have told Thomas sooner too, eh?" Seething, Lily looked to Nigel. How did he know? She knew Neville wouldn't tell anyone. "I suppose you should go to Karen for some advice on this as well." Nigel's grin said it all. The surgery! He overheard them in the surgery that day. Damn him! Her tears still flowing, she whirled around and walked toward the hearth. The sight of him made her sick. Nigel confidently leaned on his hand against the wall by the door, "Like I told you Lily...those two clowns are all wrong for you. You and I would make a much better couple. Just give me a chance." He planned this whole thing, thought Lily. He brought Neville here on purpose. It couldn't have gone any better for him, could it? She could feel her blood pressure rise. Then out of the corner of her eye, she saw it. Perhaps Thomas left it here for protection knowing Margurite was still lurking. This whole thing was just too much for Lily. She felt like an avalanche rushing down a mountain. With her whole body shaking, adrenaline exploded through every part of her. Before she even knew it herself, she grabbed the machete leaning by the hearth and hurled it toward the door, missing on purpose Nigel's groin by about a foot. His smile faded, and without words he quickly turned and left the mill. Lily collapsed onto the pillows Thomas had prepared for their date and cried.

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Chapter One Hundred Six- "After the Storm"

Stevie fidgeted nervously with the note in his hands. 'Wait an hour...wait an hour...' Lily's instructions to him reverberated through his head repeatedly, 'Wait an hour, then give this to Snow, please.' He'd seen something in Lily's eyes...a look so hopeless, so sad, it worried him terribly. He probably shouldn't have done it, but he did...he read the note. Well, Lily didn't say he couldn't read it himself, right? She just said to wait an hour before giving it to Snow. It was almost breakfast time, when he saw Snow skipping over to greet the rabbits in the new rabbit pen along with Stevie's new pup, Lucky. 'Surely, it's been an hour now,' thought Stevie as he quickly rushed over to meet her.

Dinger had now returned with Kahlua, the new pups, and their new Willows occupant, Tom Howard. To avoid possible confusion, it was heartily agreed upon to call Thomas Killion--Thomas, and Tom Howard--Tom. With yet another new villager, Ben was getting anxious to return home. That morning, some of the men were preparing to accompany Ben to the mine to be sure of his safety. Against Duncan and Dinger's better judgement, Ben was ready to return home...witch or no witch. They would leave after breakfast. Thomas and Neville clearly had no words to say to each other, nor did either of them have anything to say to Nigel. Thomas watched the hut door all morning, to see what kind of glance he would receive from Lily. He shouldn't have left the mill last night, but he couldn't help it. With both Neville and Nigel there, it would have been impossible to talk to Lily. He was simply too hurt by the news that Lily had slept with Neville, so he left the mill without thinking. So what now? He was still very hurt, but perhaps should at least give Lily a chance to explain. 'Was that what she'd been trying to tell me?' The thought haunted Thomas, and he pondered in his mind his feelings about the whole ordeal. 'Why? Why would she sleep with him?' This is the one thought he couldn't shake...the one thought that burned a hole in his compassion. He just couldn't get past it. He glanced over at Neville, who was practically sulking over his recent heartbreak. The more Thomas looked at him, the angrier he became. The hut door flew open, but once again it wasn't Lily. Rushing past everyone, a teary-eyed Snow bolted up to Thomas and began hitting him with her fists, "You bastard! How could you! The only family I have...and you drove her away! I hate you!" Thomas found himself dodging her swings, while trying to grasp her flailing hands, "I thought you loved her! You bastard...you never loved her! You don't do such a thing to someone you love!" Thomas along with the rest of the hut was shocked to hear such words coming from Snow of all people. Upon hearing his wife's angry voice, Mike rushed out of the kitchen. On seeing the commotion, he quickly ran over to Snow and restrained her gently, her arms still flailing, "Honey, what is it?" She suddenly stopped and turned to Mike, handing him the note, "Lily told Stevie to give me this. She's gone!" She turned back to Thomas, "And it's all your fault! I heard about what happened at the mill! Some friend you turned out to be...just leaving her like that!" After reading the note to himself, Mike decided to then read it aloud so that everyone could understand what was going on:

"No!" Snow wiped violently at her tears, "I'm not letting her go! She went home...back to the gypsy wagon. I know where they are! I'm going after her! I'll bring her back..." Mike grabbed his wife and locked her in his arms where she couldn't get away. "Let me go...please!" Mike ignored her cries as they finally turned into incoherent sobs. "Snow, if she has your mirror shard, you can't get back through...there's only one left remember?" Snow sniffed and added in her still furious tone whilst thrusting her finger over at Natalie, "Yes, because that COW stole the other pieces! Give them up, Natalie!" Mike was surprised at his wife's newfound boldness, as he watched the surprise now cross over Nat's face, "What? What are you talking about?" Still clenched in Mike's grasp, Snow seethed, "You know exactly what I'm talking about! You stole all of the broken pieces of that other magic mirror from the mine that Ben buried. You stole them...and I found them. Funny how they mysteriously disappeared again! Give them back, NOW!" The new detective was rather dumbfounded by all the activity, yet found it fascinating at the same time. Natalie tutted as she threw Snow a superior look, "You stupid little girl! I don't have a clue as to what you're talking about!" Mike was tempted to let Snow at Natalie for the 'stupid little girl' remark, but chose to keep his grasp on Snow, nonetheless. Upon glancing over to Stevie, Snow's heart leapt, "Stevie!" Mike loosened his grip, and Snow rushed over to her friend, "Stevie, you had one...one of the pieces! You used it to reflect sunlight onto your solar-powered car in the shadows. Stevie, please...I need that mirror. Where is it?" A look of horror washed over his face and quickly, he grabbed his worn paperback from his back pocket and fumbled nervously with it in his hands, "Snow, I dunno. I 'aven't needed it. Nev and I 'ave been usin' the solar thingy to power the lit'le boat we made." A faint smile crossed his lips, as he looked over at Neville, "Great job, right Nev! That thing runs 'cross the water like the wind, eh?" His attention was drawn back to Snow when she gently put her hands on his shoulders, "Stevie, please think. Can you remember the last time you used it? Think hard..." "Well, Lily found it an' gave it back to me right after she sprained 'er ankle. After that, I guess I jus' waz playin' wit it and the car in the woods. That's all I remember Snow....I'm sorry, really." Mike gently rubbed Snow's arm, "C'mon...let's have some breakfast first. Then later, we can talk about it. You don't need to be so upset, Snow. Let's eat first." Snow shook her head, "I'm not hungry." She then lowered her head and left the hut, not looking anyone in the eye...least of all Thomas.

Where the previous evening at the mill seemed like the worst possible thing to happen, the events of today had somehow made it worse. Still in shock, Thomas watched in silence as the others rode off with Ben to the mine. He held a faint hope that perhaps Lily wasn't able to go through the mirror somehow and was waiting for them there. But Thomas knew this was a false hope. Lily was gone...and because of this, Snow now hated him with a passion. In an almost solemn trance, he found himself at the library. Perhaps a book could take his mind off his troubles. Upon entering, he had to stifle a chuckle as he witnessed a pregnant Karen struggling to pick a book up off the floor...a battle that she was losing miserably. "Here Karen...let me get that for you." "Thank you Thomas. So you've become the new 'knight in shining armor', have you? Rescuing a 'damsel in distress'?" Imitating Ivanhoe, he gave a humble bow, "It was my pleasure, m'lady." Karen read the sadness in his eyes, "I'm so sorry about what happened. I heard about the big 'blowout' at the mill. Nigel made sure that nothing was left to the imagination." Thomas nodded sadly and propped his boot up on the chair as he scanned the bookshelf. Karen returned her book back into its hole in the sea of books, "Hey, I'll bet Lily will be back. She just needs some time to think is all. Ya know?" Thomas smiled at her gently, "I don't think so, Karen. But then why would she come back? Snow is the only thing here for her...the rest is nothing but heartache to her now. I suppose it's for the best." "Why is that Thomas?" He gave a heavy sigh looking at the book titles, but not really seeing the words they spoke, "Because I don't know what to feel about it all myself. What am I supposed to think, Karen? Lily slept with Neville. I was never given that privilege, myself...not that it mattered so much, but..." He sighed in frustration and paced to the other side of the library, "It put that doubt there, Karen...the doubt that makes me wonder if I was the one she loved in the first place. Maybe that's why she was having such a hard time telling Neville the truth...because she was in love with him." Karen approached Thomas and gently put her hand on his arm, "She loved Neville...as a friend, Thomas. But she was IN love with you." "But Karen, you don't know that." "Yes, I do. The one thing that Nigel so conveniently left out of his 'Pulitzer prize' story was HOW he came to find out what all he knew. Didn't you ever wonder that?" Bewildered, Thomas' brow creased and he turned to look at Karen, "Well, now that you mention it....yeah. How DID he know?" "Thomas, please sit down. This is something you really need to hear." The two of them sat at the table Karen had just dusted. Out of pure habit, she grabbed the remaining book on the table and thrust it back onto the shelf, "Lily came to the surgery shortly after she'd sprained her ankle. It really needed some attention, which she had neglected to come to me for until that day. She then finally told me what had happened. I think she realized my suspicions." Thomas eyed her with question to which she quickly added, "Sometimes women just know these things. She went to the barn after she'd been rejected, or at least thought she'd been rejected by you. Neville just happened to be there. Thomas, you have to remember, that this was all happening at a very delicate time in her life when Phillipe had just resurfaced and her horror had started all over again. She told me that over the years and through all the nightmares, she felt like she..." "Belonged to Phillipe." To Karen's surprise, Thomas finished her statement. It was all so clear to him now. Why couldn't he have seen it before? Of course! Lily didn't want to feel like she 'belonged' to Phillipe any longer. She'd even tried to tell him at the mill weeks ago. He could see the truth clearly now...so clearly that he hurt inside. He should have seen it sooner. He shouldn't have stormed out of the mill last night...just when she needed him the most. Karen could see the revelation in Thomas' eyes, even through the cloudiness of his quickly forming tears. "Karen, what have I done? Snow is right...I did drive her away! If I'd have just listened...just stop to think for a moment about what all she'd been going through...maybe she'd still be here!" Karen smiled gently and tried to put a reassuring hand on his shoulder. But in his agitation with himself, he jumped up, "God Karen! I have to find her! There's got to be a way somehow...I have to bring her back!" "Thomas..." But before she could utter another word, he was out the door.

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Tensions had been high for the past week since Lily had been gone. The air between Thomas and Neville seemed to be growing worse, rather than better. It was evident that these two had yet to settle their differences since that evening at the mill. After careful consideration, Duncan decided that enough was enough. It was certainly not good for the cooperation of the village for two of its members to be at each others' throats, whether they admitted to it or not. To remedy the situation, Duncan sent the two blokes out for a day's work to fetch some peat bogs for the upcoming winter. He thought it would be a good way to get them alone together to work out their differences, yet at a distance away from the village so as not to subject the other villagers to the inevitable 'shouting match' that was sure to ensue. He also thought it best to keep them away from Nigel's tongue this time, lest they decide to cut it off one of these days. Hmmm...perhaps not a bad idea, Duncan thought as he chuckled to himself.

Other than the original heated protest back at the hut between Thomas, Neville and Duncan, the ride to the source of the peat bogs had been deathly silent between the two. Even as the two stopped to gaze at the carved bridge along the way of the path, neither were aware of the other's memories of Lily at the very same bridge. If they had been, the heated words would most probably have begun much earlier. It wasn't until the two were forced to actually interact together to gather the winter fuel for the village did their tensions finally come to the surface. "Did I not just say that bag was already full enough?" Thomas tutted as he watched Neville pick up the stray bricks off the ground after trying to overfill one of the bags. Neville whipped his beach-style haircut around as he turned to glare at Thomas, "I waz jus' tyin' ta get us outta 'ere as fast as possible. So sue me!" Thomas gave him a quizzical look at the term 'sue', and then shook his head while he carried on with packing his own bag, "Young folk...they think they know everything". Annoyed at Tom's comment, Neville muttered under his breath yet where Tom could still hear him, "Well, at least I'm not too 'old' for certain people." Stopping immediately, Thomas thrust his bag haphazardly to the ground, "Now what the hell is that supposed to mean?" "Nothing, I was just mumbling to myself." Nev pulled the bag's drawstring taught and plopped it down next to the horses. As he reached for another bag, Thomas started over to him with a purpose, grabbed the bag from his hand and threw it to the ground, "No, that's it! We can't go on like this. It's time we have it out right here, right now!" Neville blinked at him a slow indifferent look as he folded his arms, "Well, I don't know what for. I have nothing to say." "Obviously you do, judging from the comment you just made. You just insinuated that you think I'm too old for Lily, right? So go on Neville...tell me what you really think." He sighed in thought, never taking his eyes from Thomas' glare. "Alright, fine. I DO think you're too old for Lily. She needs someone full of life and energy, someone who can take 'er boatin' or dancin'...not jus' sit around some ol' watermill!" Thomas flew his finger up in Neville's face, "Lily's and my activities are none of your concern! You can't judge things you didn't see!" Without thinking, Neville sputtered, "Well then, it's pretty obvious what activities you two DIDN'T engage in, now isn't it?" Thomas' anger flared and he quickly grabbed Neville's shirt collar while raising his fist up, "Don't you dare say it!" "Go on then, Thomas! Hit me, if it will make you feel better! If you really think it will bring Lily back, then do it!" Realizing his actions, Thomas lowered his fist and released Neville, shoving him back toward the horses. He then went back to fetching the peat bricks, while Neville followed, "You don't think this whole thing hadn't gotten me jus' as upset as you? Don't you think I loved Lily, too? It was you who stole her away from ME, Tom! Don't even try and tell me you didn't know I was courtin' her! The whole village knew it!" Thomas quickly whirled around, "Of course I knew! And you have NO idea how angry it made me...neither one of you did! My feelings for Lily started way before you know...before she knew." Thomas turned away from Neville, "When Lily first arrived, I had to take her out to the woods to try and help her find the herbs to curb her nightmares. When we found that pregnant woman in the woods and I watched Lily deliver her baby...I can't even describe it." He wiped the sweat from his brow as he fought back any hint of a tear, "She was so gentle and loving with the two of them." "Like Beth, then?" Neville's tone had dropped considerably. "Well, yes a little...but also different. Lily had a way all her own." Neville nodded in a distant sort of way, "Aye. That she did." Thomas gave an exasperating sigh as the image of Lily and Neville together in the barn loft entered into his mind, "C'mon...let's hurry up and get these bags filled." Neville watched as Thomas began thrusting peat bogs into his bag in a very frustrating manner. He hesitated before offering, "Don't you wanna know, Tom?" Without looking, Thomas spouted, "About what?" "About Lily?" Thomas stopped long enough to clench his fists as he answered, still without looking at Neville, "If you're asking if I want to know how Lily is in bed...no thank you, I'll pass on that!" "No, that's not what I meant! I meant...well, look. I think ya should know somethin'. At least, I think I owe ya this much. I didn't want to admit it, I never wanted ta admit it...but I knew. I knew that Lily was in love with ya." At this, Tom stopped and turned to look at Neville while he continued, "I didn't know it really, till after she and I were together that day in the barn. It was after that. I guess that's what hurt the most...that's why I didn't want ta admit it, even ta myself." Now it was Neville's turn to step away as he walked over to the horses. He stroked his mare while he himself fought back his tears, "The other evenin' at the mill was the worst, though. I was hit with the cold reality that not only was Lily in love with you, but she had been the entire time...meaning she never loved me." "Nev..." Thomas started but Neville waved him off, "Save yer breath. I've already talked to Karen. I know what was really goin' on there...like that didn't make me feel any better though. I now wish I hadn't been up in the loft at all that day. It wasn't really my privilege to have, now was it?" He then added softly as he turned back to face Thomas, "It was yours." Thomas was taken aback by Neville's blunt honesty on such a tender subject. His response to him was delayed further as he caught a tear escape Neville's eye. Annoyed, Nev wiped at the side of his head and face as if he were wiping sweat from his brow, "Oi! It's as hot as the summers where I come from...only no beach to enjoy!" He gave as sincere a chuckle as he could before stooping to pick up the bag that Thomas had earlier swiped from his hands, "Let's hurry up an' gather these blasted peat bogs! I could really go for a dip in the lake." He paused as he turned to see Thomas still watching him with a sort of admiration, "So what say, Tom? You up for a dip later?" Thomas smiled at him with sincerity, "You bet, Nev."

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Chapter One Hundred Eight- "Moving Day"

Lily had been gone almost two weeks now and Snow's spirits were still low. Although Snow used the duties of canning fruits in the kitchen to keep her mind busy, she was seldom hungry for food at all. After Snow had missed both breakfast and lunch Sunday, Mike packed a picnic basket and took it to the spring...their newfound spot. Somehow he knew his wife would be there. She looked so sad, so lonely sitting there on the grassy bank. Her face was glazed over in thoughts of her sister. She hadn't heard Mike's presence until he was sitting beside her on the grass, and she smiled gently, "I'm sorry I haven't been sociable. I just haven't been hungry." Mike offered a chipper grin to cheer her up, "Not even for all of your favorites? Let's see here...we have fresh grilled trout, steamed asparagus, baked eggplant, and...strawberry covered cheesecake. Well, actually the cheesecake is waiting for us back at our cabin. I had to leave something behind to entice you to come home." He winked at her and she smiled as she peered into the basket. He was right. These were all of her favorites...the same things he cooked back on their first date in the barn that now seemed so long ago. "Thank you, darling...you're such a Prince!" She kissed him, and they began to set out the food for their lunch. 'What a sweet gesture this was,' Snow thought. She loved this man so much...he was everything to her, especially now with her sister gone. He was her comfort and her rod of strength. She sighed as she watched him cheerfully set out their picnic. She could never live without this man--this gentle man. She smirked as the thought came to her mind, "You know darling, we don't have to go back to the cabin for 'dessert'."

Yvonne's attention perked up, as the men entered the hut having just accompanied Ben to the mine, "Well, did you see anything? Was she there? Did you see any of her magic stuff?" She cleared her throat, as she seemed more curious than she usually appears. But with all the recent strange things happening, she couldn't help it. Seeing Duncan avoid her gaze and quickly retreat into the kitchen, she instead directed her questions to Bart. "No. There was no sign of her, frankly. We went with Ben down to the bottom of the mine in that cart contraption...quite a strange ride that was...but no sign of the witch anywhere. Duncan told him he should come back with us...but he insisted the mine was his home and he'd rather be there. I suppose we'll see what happens. I just hope nothing happens to the little fellow...at least he has Max with him. Has anyone seen that witch anywhere lately besides Jennifer's attack? Has Edward seen her?" Dinger shook his head as he blew a billow of smoke into the air, "Don't know. He's been awful quiet lately. Guess the whole thing's shakin' 'im up pretty good. Where is ol' Ed, anyway?" "He's helping Thomas move, I believe." "Good. That should get Tom's mind off of Lily." Tom Howard looked to Dinger in question and he quickly corrected himself, "I mean Thomas, not Tom. Geez, that could get bloody confusin', couldn't it?" The detective chuckled lightly and nodded his head.

Even though Lily was gone apparently for good, Thomas was making preparations to move from his shared cabin with Raif into one of the empty ones. Both parties were relieved, frankly, to have a cabin to themselves now that there were women in the village. Thomas had to concentrate to keep his thoughts on moving and off of Lily...something which was nearly impossible. Mike was right...there was no way to go after her. After Thomas had engaged in a futile interrogation session with Natalie, either she truly didn't know where the other mirror pieces were or she was very good at lying...which very well may have been the case. So what could he do but worry? Not only did he wonder every minute of the day where Lily was and if she was alright, he also couldn't help but to remember her cheery smile, her silky hair, her soft touch...Argh! It was driving him insane! Luckily for him, Eddy and Bart came to help out with the move, which aided Thomas in steering his thoughts in the right direction. "Hey Ed, can you pack up the nightstand over there? And Bart, can you give Raif and I a hand with the bed?" While the men were moving the bed, Ed noticed something curious that caught his eye on Thomas' nightstand. He picked up in his hand the ring that Ben had given Thomas. It was the 'morphing' ring that had belonged to Rumple. Ed wondered if it could possibly be used to help catch Margurite. Of course, he didn't think Thomas would ever let anyone use it to find out, so Ed quietly slipped it into his pocket. The men spent most of the day helping Thomas carry his things over to his new cabin. It was a warm day, but not too hot. Nevertheless, the men were thankful to Yvonne when she brought them fresh lemonade while they rested in the afternoon sun. Thomas shook their hands, "Thanks, mates. I appreciate your help. I think Raif and I will both have more room to move around this way." "Among other things." Raif added coyly, as he observed Natalie's skirt blowing freely in the breeze of the day while she watched the men from a nearby porch swing.

Dinner was later than normal, with Snow and Mike arriving from their picnic later than expected. Mike apologized profusely as he quickly threw on his apron and began supper. Nigel smirked as he questioned Snow on their delay, but she could only blush. To which Dinger turned to Kahlua and whispered out of anyone else's hearing range, "Now what were these 'problems' you said Mike and Snow were having?" Kahlua simply tutted and waved him away as he grinned. They'd barely finished dinner and were clearing the dishes when Ben's rushed entrance into the hut gave everyone a start. "Snow!" The little dwarf was still trying to catch his breath as the Princess rushed to his side, "Ben, what is it? Are you alright? Come and sit down...you look exhausted." But he tactfully waved off her offer, "No, not now. Snow, you have to come back with me to the mine." Mike had just come from the kitchen in hearing all of the excitement, "Why? What is it, Ben?" Snow spouted with excitement while Thomas' ears perked up, "Is it Lily?" Before Ben could catch his breath to answer, Dinger was in the middle of the conversation, "It's that witch again, isn't it? I knew we shoulda had ya stay here for a while longer!" Ben shook his head as he gasped in one more rush of air, "No, it's not Lily or Margurite," he looked over at Mike. "I can't really explain, but Mike should come, too...you just have to see it. Besides, I need to make sure I'm not seeing things, anyway!" Duncan scowled, "That serious? Perhaps we should get a group together. But we should wait till morning. Ben, you can stay in the guest room here in the hut tonight." Snow leaned down to her friend, "Can you tell me what it is?" Ben grinned but shook his head, "Nah...better wait to see this one yourself, Snow. Trust me." Dinger grunted and stepped into the kitchen as he muttered under his breath, "Bloody secret midget!"

Trying to get information out of Ben during the meal was pointless...he wouldn't budge. The team left after breakfast. Following with Ben to the mine were Mike, Snow, Duncan, Dinger, and Ritchie. Thomas insisted on also accompanying them, in case this had anything to do with Lily. They took the stairs to the belly of the mine, as Dinger refused to ride Ben's cart or elevator down to the bottom. The little dwarf led the pack while holding his lantern up to light the way, "I finally decided to go explorin' this week to make sure those two didn't sabotage my home down here or anything. Come to find out, they dug out those other two chambers while they were here. Well, actually, I'm sure it was Phillipe rather than that ol' queen. She just doesn't look like the type to do manual labor. Anyway, it saved me the trouble of havin' ta dig 'em out m'self." As they passed by the mirror chamber, Thomas couldn't help but pause for a brief look inside, wishing for the possibilities. Ben came to a small hole in the rock and clay that had indeed been halfway dug out...enough for the pack to squeeze through. The dim light of the dwarf's lantern was enough for them to make out the shadows of the room...the outlines of old furniture and tools. Over in the corner as Ben drew closer, there was a long slender object covered by a very old quilt in the corner. Could it be another mirror lying on its side? Snow suddenly shivered and Mike quickly took her hand. Ben grabbed the corner of the quilt then stopped and turned to Snow before revealing his discovery. Once he saw Mike pull Snow in tighter to him, Ben ripped away the quilt. Snow's breath escaped her. In a choking gasp, she quickly stepped toward the object. Tripping on her gown, she fell to her knees beside the object and immediately wept. Gently she touched the cool surface of the glass coffin as she gave a soft whisper, "Mama?"

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Chapter One Hundred Nine- "The Mine's Eye"

Lying in perfect ageless beauty within the glass coffin was Snow's mother, Elizabeth White. Her hair was a deep reddish-brown as it cascaded in rippling waves over her shoulders...just like the painting now hanging in Mike and Snow's cabin. Snow sobbed onto the glass, "Why is she here...in this mine?" Mike hurried over to kneel at Snow's side and comfort her. Ben could tell by Snow's horrified reaction that she did not realize that her mother wasn't dead. "Snow, it's a spell, see? It was put on her by Rumple. Your mother isn't dead, sweetheart." Quickly, Snow snapped her head around to look at her friend, "She's not?" "No. See...you can barely see her breathing there under the glass." Snow looked back to the beautiful woman in the coffin she once knew years ago. Her graceful hands lie atop her chest that rose and fell ever so slightly. "But how? I don't understand." Snow's words were soft but audible. Dinger was already skeptical as the dwarf explained, "She's been down here for centuries. Although to you, it's only been thirteen years." Ritch scowled as he got a better look at the sleeping woman, "For centuries? That's impossible! She barely looks 25!" "That's the spell, see?" Ben then turned to Mike, "We need that book Jennifer has. Maybe we can use the antidote to wake her up. At least I hope the spell's antidote is in that book. I think it would be better to bring Jennifer here. I don't think it would be a good idea to move Elizabeth while she's like this. In fact, I don't think we should take her out from under this glass until we're ready. I'm not very versed on magic an' stuff...but that's jus' my opinion." Ritch shook his head, "Jennifer ain't in any condition to be coming out 'ere. She 'ad a nasty confrontation with that witch...she hadn't even woken up yet. We'll have ta try somethin' else." The dwarf then looked to Dinger and started with hesitancy, "What about Karen? She's pretty good with following instructions out of herb books and medical journals..." Dinger cut him off before Ben had a chance to finish, "No way! Karen ain't comin' down 'ere to this bloody damp hell of a cave!" Sadly, Snow turned away to try and hide her continuing tears, but too late to escape Dinger's observation, "An' don't ya give me that pout treatment! Ya ain't gonna put me on no guilt trip, Princess!" Mike quickly stood to his feet and got right into Dinger's face, "That's quite enough! The last thing this situation needs is your foul disposition to muck it up all the more!" Dinger didn't move an inch, remaining only centimeters from Mike, "Oh is that so! Well, with absolutely NO apologies to you, I feel no obligation to help the very woman whose daughter, being the only midwife 'ere, up and decides to run off without the least regard for those around her!" Mike's horrified face spoke volumes when Thomas tutted with a raised voice, "Dear God, here we go again! Will you ever let that sleeping dog lie?" Mike then sputtered as he found difficulty in getting his words out, "How dare you! You would attempt to punish both Snow and her mother because of a mistake Lily made?" Dinger could feel his blood pressure rise in retaliation, "Mistake? That lit'le wench abandoned TWO pregnant women in the village just as they were ready to pop...one of them losing her own life in childbirth! How selfish is that? I'd be almost inclined to call it murder!" By this time Thomas was about to explode with anger, as he picked up a nearby rock hammer and came at Dinger with it, "That's it! I've told you before I've had enough of your spouting off about Lily..." Out of the corner of his eye, Ritchie spotted the ancient instrument in Thomas' hand, and his instincts kicked in quickly. Without hesitation, he grabbed Tom's arms, pulling them behind him and forcing him to drop his weapon, "Killion! Take it easy, mate! Ya don't wanna do it and ya know it!" Dinger was unfazed by Tom's actions and instead continued with his observations to Mike, "And I suppose you don't think it the least bit strange that there is a woman centuries old under a bloody sleeping spell that doesn't look any older than her own daughter! You know, this village will never get used to all the 'hocus pocus' shit that started when your wife arrived!" Mike's attempt to control his anger was quickly failing, "Don't you dare speak for the whole village Dinger! As much of a shock as it must be to you, there are other opinions in the village besides yours!" "Please," came the quiet pleading of Snow. "Please stop. Don't you see? This is supposed to be me...like in the story you told me. What was it called...a 'fairy tale'? I should be under this glass according to that story. But somehow, instead of me being under this spell, it's my mother. She has no prince to come and wake her...my father doesn't even know she's alive. We have to find a way to wake her. Please?" After a moment and a frustrated growl, Dinger balled up his fist and hissed through clenched teeth, "Bloody hell! I'll go and get Karen. But as soon as she does that antidote thing, or whatever you call it, I'm taking her back. So if it doesn't work the first time...tough shit!" Then with a sigh of relief but before Snow could even express her thanks, Dinger quickly turned and headed back to the village for Karen.

All of Snow's early childhood memories of her mother came flooding back to her as Ben continued, "I knew there was somethin' else goin' on when they kept shushin' each other at the cabin...Margurite an' Rumple. There was somethin' they didn't want me ta know. Guess this was it. The way I figure it...with the way Rumple was actin', he was real sweet on Elizabeth, ya know? Had a crush on her. Which is why I think he wanted Lily so much. She was a piece of Elizabeth...his 'beloved' shall we say. He knew there was no way he'd ever have Elizabeth, so he took Lily instead. But then, he devised a plan to put Elizabeth under this sleepin' spell, so he could bring in Margurite to be queen. If he could keep her on his side to where they would both get rid of the King together, then he could dispose of Margurite and make up any story he liked. He taught her just about everything she knows in the magic arts. But I'm sure he still had something up his sleeve." He then looked at the woman in the coffin, "Then he could awaken his beloved and rule the kingdom with her forever." "Stop it!" Snow's agitated cry startled Ben. "Stop calling her that! She was NOT his beloved!" She stretched a protective arm over the top of the glass, "Someone such as the likes of him could never be worthy of my mother. He's a murderer and a rapist and it's a good thing he's dead!" Mike squeezed his wife's shoulders in concern at her unusual outburst. The dwarf gained an apologetic tone, "Sorry, Snow. I didn't mean anything by it really." Thomas looked at the face of the peaceful lady and immediately saw the resemblance of both Lily and Snow. Suddenly it hit him that Lily had just missed seeing her. She'd never known her mother, and Thomas knew that this would have most probably been one of the happiest days of Lily's life to meet her mother...if they could wake her. It just ate him up inside to think that Lily just missed seeing her. All the times he remembered Lily speak of wishing she could meet her real mother...she could hardly talk about her without the tears welling up in her eyes. Yet, here she was...and where was Lily? Despite his outward defense of Lily to Dinger, it had bothered Thomas that Lily's disappearance came at such an inconvenient time for the village. Dinger's hateful words repeated their ringing through Tom's mind again and again. Where they'd engaged in quite a good row over it earlier that week, Thomas was compelled to defend Lily's honor...as she was not here to defend herself. Words such as 'thoughtless' and 'selfish' had been thrown around haphazardly by Dinger in their fight...but 'murderer'? Surely, this was just a sword spouted in a fit of anger. Still, it didn't make the pain of hearing it any less severe. But no matter what Lily had thought or not thought at the time of her exit, she didn't deserve to be denied this chance to see her mother alive, Thomas thought. She had to see this...she just had to! Without being noticed, Thomas slipped out of the present cave where the others were and entered the dimly lit empty cavern where the mirror was. "Lily?" he said quietly. Slowly, he approached the mirror. Its tall ominous stature was intimidating, almost as if it were staring back at him. "Lily!" he spoke louder this time with a hint of desperation in his voice. A whisper, Tom thought? Was that a whisper he heard...behind the glass? With urgency, he placed his outstretched hand flat on the glass. It was a cold and solid surface...no hint of any doorway to the other side. "Lily...where are you, my love?" Thomas was startled when suddenly another hand thrust out of the mirror and grabbed onto his wrist. It was a woman's hand with long fingernails. 'Margurite!' Thomas thought. The hand began tugging at his wrist trying to pull him through. His first instinct was to pull away...but his next thought burned more urgently in his mind. What if this were the only chance to get to Lily...to be pulled through this mirror? But what would happen to him? What kind of wrath would he have to face from Margurite? Would he be able to escape the queen to go and find Lily? As the hand tugged harder, Thomas felt himself giving in.

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Chapter One Hundred Ten- "Antidote"

Dinger returned to the mine with Karen in tow. Momentarily taken aback by the sight of the woman under the glass, Karen blinked in surprise taking notice of the family resemblance to her innocent brunette friend sitting teary-eyed near her mother. Grasping Jennifer's spell book in her hand she swallowed hard and prayed that the antidote would indeed be found within its pages. Remembering where Jennifer had shown her the text they discovered after the book was saturated with oil, Karen flipped in the book until she came to the 'sleeping death' spell, "This says that the victim under the sleeping death spell can only be awakened by the kiss of their true love." Ben shook his head with confidence, "Nah! Rumple would never use that one. He would have to be able to wake her up after he'd disposed of the King, so that would never work. He sure wasn't her true love!" Karen was continuing to read, "Wait...there's another one right underneath it. It's called 'eternal rest'. This could be it. It says the antidote is a 'blood alliance' with an immediate relative, and then says to combine the union with a mixture, to which it gives here a list of herbs. This doesn't sound difficult at all." Mike gave a puzzled look, "What does it mean by a 'blood alliance with a relative'? Wouldn't they already have that kind of an alliance?" "No...in the context written, it means to 'make an alliance with their blood'. For example, when you were a boy, didn't you ever make a 'blood brother union' of sorts with a close friend?" Ritchie quickly caught the reference and jumped in offering, "Yeah! I get it! Ya know, when two kids prick their fingers and then shake hands right? Blood brothers!" "That's right, Ritch. Now, all we have to do is get the herbal mixture and we're set." Dinger grabbed the book and shoved it at Ritchie, "Here. Have Kahlua help you gather these bloody 'erbs. I don't want Karen runnin' all over the place! She's gonna end up stayin' 'ere in this shit'ole longer than I wanted as it is!"

Ritch returned with Kahlua and the herbal mixture. Neville, hearing about their latest discovery, also decided to tag along. He caught a glimpse of the woman from a distance as he entered the chamber and was immediately rendered speechless. Indeed, he would never expect that Lily's mother be anything less than beautiful, as are her two daughters. Her resemblance to her girls was notable as well, Neville thought, as Kahlua and Ritch shuffled past him to offer the awaited herb ingredients to Karen. "Oh good...I was afraid we might have been out of this one." Karen turned to the dwarf as he curiously watched her work, "Do you have any type of mixing bowl or plate...anything to stir this up in?" "Yeah." Ben hurried out and was only gone a minute before he returned with a small wooden bowl. Once Karen crushed the dry herbs into the bowl, she turned to Snow and offered a warm smile, "It's time, honey." Snow was visibly shaking as she rose from her vigil at her mother's side. Her legs felt numb, yet she trusted them to glide her over to Karen. She gently took Snow's hand in hers, "It's alright, sweetie. You're alright." Ben lifted the glass top from the coffin. The draft in the cavern lightly blew a strand of the queen's hair off of her shoulders. In the tense moment, the movement startled Mike, and he jumped slightly. He then turned to glare at Dinger who began snickering at him quite loudly. Per Karen's instructions, Kahlua also returned with two sterilized needles. Karen and Snow approached the queen, and Karen used one needle to prick the queen's finger and the other to prick Snow's finger. Snow was too petrified to feel anything from the prick to her finger...too worried wondering if all of this would indeed wake her sleeping mother. Mike sighed nervously as he remembered back to the trip he and Ben took into the mirror to retrieve the wedding gown for Snow. He shuddered at the memory of the old spindle on the spinning wheel in the castle tower, as he thought of the matching 'sleeping beauty' tale now unfolding before his very eyes. His shuddering, of course, caused additional snickering from Dinger. Karen pinched a small amount of the crushed dry herbal mixture into Snow's palm and then smeared the few drops of blood from Snow's finger into the center of the mixture and rolled it about. She then took the queen's hand and placed her fingers into the mixture in Snow's palm and then closed Snow's fingers down onto her mother's hand, "Give it a little time. It may take a minute." "It better not take too long. I'm getting' ya outta this damp hell hole right quick like." Karen only gave Dinger a quick 'shush' look before returning her attention back to her patients. She observed Snow holding her breath as she watched for any sign of life from her mother. Then as a faint quiver went though the queen's lips, a sound similar to that of a child came out of Snow. Her breath was released in the form of a small whimper, as the quiver passed from her mother's lips to her eyes and they fluttered open slowly. She looked straight up above her to the dark cavern ceiling dripping with its icicles of solid stone. The air was damp yet cool, and with a slightly musty smell to it. However, what captured her attention the most were the strangers that surrounded her bedside. She was startled and sat up quickly in the glass box, "Oh gracious! What in heavens is going on?" Her soft vocal quality in addition to her tamer choice of vocabulary solidified her relation to Snow in everyone's minds. It was quite clear that this was the woman who raised Mike's little princess. Words could not seem to find their way past Snow's lips, although the tears seemed to have no problem finding their way from her eyes. Though the queen didn't know this lovely young girl...still, she was intrigued. There was something very familiar about her. "How do you feel?" Karen could always be counted on to keep true to the business at hand. Right now, the important thing was to be sure this woman was alright. After all, she'd been asleep for centuries. "How did I get here? Who are you?" Snow's tears continued to flow freely as she sadly rested her head upon her mother's lap. Her time with her mother as a child had been stripped away from them both. How was Snow going to convey this to her? Mike approached the glass bed and knelt down beside the confused queen. Realizing that he was meeting his mother-in-law for the first time, he quickly took heed of the formalities of the period. "Your Majesty..." As he began, Dinger rolled his eyes and seethed quietly, "Oh God! What a kiss ass!" Ignoring the background noise, Mike continued with gentleness, "What is the last thing you remember?" Mike's soothing touch to her hand calmed the queen somewhat, and she took a deep breath in thought, "Well, I was sick. I was with my...my daughter! Where is my daughter?! Where is my husband? I shouldn't be here! Where am I?" Quickly, the queen regained her panicked tone as Mike tried to softly calm her, "Shhhh...it's alright. Everything is alright. We can explain why you're here, your Majesty." Just then, Snow lifted her head to look at her mother through the watery vision of her tears. The queen caught a glimpse of the girl and stopped. Slowly she put her hand on Snow's cheek, wiping a tear from her face. In a soft whisper, Snow sniffed, "It's me, Mama. It's Snow." The queen's eyes widened in her revelation as Snow continued, "You've been asleep for a very long time. It was a spell. You were put under a spell. But it's OK, now." Snow took her mother's hand from her face and kissed her fingers, "We're together again." Speechless, the queen didn't know what to say, as she was still stunned by the fact that her daughter looked so much older now. Could it really be her? Could all this be real? She cupped Snow's face with her hands, "My baby? Is it really you? But how?" Snow happily grabbed her hands with her own, "Yes, Mama! It's really me! We can explain everything." Karen noticed the herbal mixture now smudged all down Snow's cheek, "Here, let me fix that." She took and cleaned the ladies hands and Snow's face. The queen was still in awe, never taking her eyes off of her daughter. Still stunned, she shook her head in disbelief, yet smiled, "Snow?" Snow reached up and gave her mother a large hug, reducing them both to tears. Mike found himself wiping at his own eyes as well. The tender moment was suddenly shattered by the abrasive voice of Dinger, "Alright, I hate ta interrupt the family reunion 'ere, but I think we should get a few things straight." A wave of panic shot through Snow as she remembered Dinger's usual treatment of strangers to the village. In a pure adrenaline surge, Snow shot up onto her feet and straight into Dinger's face, "You're NOT interrogating my mother! You tactless barbarian SWINE!" Clearly taken aback, Dinger had to chuckle at Snow's choice of words, although harsh by her own vocabulary. Mike gently grabbed Snow and pulled her back towards him, also surprised at his wife's newfound courage to stand up to Dinger in such a way. Dinger had to cough off his chuckling as Mike continued to glare at him, "Look...all I was gonna say is, that I think we ought ta get outta this bloody mine. We can take the reunion back ta the Willows, or whatever. But I said I don't want Karen down 'ere for long, an' I meant it. So grab her 'Majesty' and let's go!" Leaving the chamber, it was Ritch's turn to snicker as he overheard Mike making his sincere apologies to his new mother-in-law for Dinger's crudeness. As Kahlua caught Ritch with a curious eye, he whispered back to her, "I guess ain't nothin' changed in the last few hundred years, eh?"

On instinct, Thomas quickly pulled his wrist free from the evil hand's grasp through the mirror. Thinking of Lily, he then regretted his decision and tried to reach for the hand again. The hand however vanished back into the mirror as mysteriously as it had appeared. "Wait!" As Thomas slowly took a step toward the mirror again, something else appeared out of the glass. Gently, a scarf floated through the reflection and dropped slowly to the ground. Thomas was appalled. As he knelt down to pick up the scarf, he held it tenderly in his hand. He felt the tears begin to sting his eyes, as he recognized the scarf to be the one Lily wore the last time he saw her...on the evening of their date. 'That witch has Lily!' Thomas thought. Quickly he jumped up and pressed against the glass with his hands, "Lily! If you harm her, so help me, I'll kill you! You hear me, Margurite? I'LL KILL YOU!"

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