Alfred Hallam

Don’t let them know he loved her best

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Between yourself and me.

What he could’ve been I suppose ?

Run by @oh-its-time-ash

Ask blog / rp blog

Don’t send nsfw , Alfred is 16

Asks as other characters are incredibly welcome :)

Some warnings !!

This account deals with war , illness , mental illness , the likes

Mainly a lot of heavy themes but I’ll try to make it light when I can !

My portrayal mostly runs off of headcanons and what I know from the book plus my own experiences with my issues though if anything seems misrepresented to you feel free to tell me !!

And if you couldn’t tell , I space out some of my punctuation , I can’t really stop myself so I don’t try to <3

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

This coughing will drive me mad , I swear it

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

I'm taking away your tuberculosis privileges, sorry

… Thank you ?

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Don’t let them know he loved her best ,

For this must ever be

A secret , Kept from all the rest ,

Between yourself and me.

[bunnyrabbitfacts]

FACT:

[pngblog]

[cutecipher]

"does anyone have any questions?"

the studious bnnuy:

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

It was a quieter day in the underground , rather boring. Which meant Alfred was bored as well , much too calm. Out of an old habit , he started making bird calls , specifically a magpie’s. It echoed through the tunnel almost obnoxiously.

Tabatha, of course, heard that noise. See, that was not a noise of a person, or so she thought. She moved herself a bit closer to the opening of her personal cavern embedded in the tiled wall, reached a hand down on the edge to stabilize herself, and poked her head from the dark. A rare occurrence on such a slow day.

Was there some sort of bird in here?

( @thesecretkeptfromalltherest )

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

You would assume a bird , but none could be found. What could be , however , was some disgruntled- or in the case of certain gossipers , intrigued- stares over at Alfred. Who did indeed sit there on his cot , making his calls whilst unaware of how loud he was being. He might not even be in this moment , if his lack of reaction from the stares told her anything.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Tabatha tilted her head slightly as she connected the dots. Was he making that noise? That was impressive enough, but it didn’t even look like he was doing anything at all down there. He seemed off in his own world. Hm. She turned, to hang upside down from her perch, her head tilting back against the wall. She decided maybe she ought to talk to the boy.

Psst.

She hissed, to get his attention.

Alfred.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred jumped , yes , he had been very much in his own little world , back at his beloved once was zoo perhaps. He stopped his bird song , glancing around for the Tabatha he knew he heard. Part of him did expect to see her with Alice on her cot , as she liked to be , but no. In fact she was upside down , hanging from her shadows. His eyebrows furrowed but he smiled either way.

He took little time to get over to her , it was easy to move fast when your legs are practically yard sticks.

Good afternoon , Tabatha.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Hello.

Tabatha’s Cheshire grin formed on her face as always. No, as much time as she spent with Alice now, she was up on her platform. Honestly, she was playing up the mystery of herself a little bit. She did find that fun.

Is that your song, boy? That bird call?

She turned herself right side up again, resting her hands on what would have been her paws, if she was truly a cat.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred could easily picture her in that storybook tree , that was basically what this little hideout was , a tree substitute. Although , he wasn’t quite the Alice suited for the scene. He supposed he could make an exception , perhaps the cat stopping the rabbit on his late run to the queen to talk. In betweens of the story could still exist..

Not mine , it’s the marvelous magpie’s. Alas she’s not here , I’m simply singing it for her.

He was aware of them not being in the story , though being in a good place for it , but it was nice to think of it as such. It occupies him as Alice is taking her nap and can’t talk of their wonders.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Tabatha huffed in slight laughter at that. She had been asking him if he was the one making that noise, but not only did that answer her question, it also certainly amused her.

Singing for her, the magpie?

She continued her laugh. My, he was just as imaginative as Alice. These certainly felt like in-betweens, but they were the in betweens of dodging of dodging death, day by day, big events like that. The calm before the panic. So yes, it could have been the rabbit taking a break to speak with the Cheshire. She remained as calm as ever, looking down at him.

I suppose that seems appropriate.

She shrugged.

And you’ve got quite the impression of it, you know. It made me believe there may be a real bird trapped down here with the rest of us.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

How else could I remember her song ?

Alfred imagined that magpie on the river bank , one he’s played for Alice for countless afternoons. She would not have liked his talking to the cat , as most birds would , he’d be sure not to tell her of this bit should they speak again , only that his memory of song could not compare to the real one. Flattery got him quite far there.

He smiled , the obvious nose twitch included. He was very proud of his calls.

I’ve practiced for almost as long as I’ve been the rabbit , it used to come quite in handy when I thought my brother knew too much peace.

His older brother always had an odd fear of a bird being in the house , probably fearing the thing would mess up his sports trophies or perhaps it was just because they’re an awful hassle to get out.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Tabatha found herself chuckling again. She wouldn’t have assumed he enjoyed that sort of mischief from time to time! She’d assumed he was this sort of polite all the time. She remained in her spot there, head resting on her hands, comfortable.

And how long have you been the rabbit, exactly?

She was humoring him, mostly. Alice liked him, so she supposed she wasn’t bothered to continue a conversation.

I didn’t know you to be able to cause such trouble, Mr. Hallam.

A playful jab.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred has realized he's just been standing all this time but he wasn’t quite sure what to do about it. He thought it'd feel weird if he were to sit down , furthering the distance between them is unnecessary. Pacing was a nice option , but it might make him seem disinterested. Staying put should be fine for now.

Twelve years just about. At least that was when I was conscious enough to know it.

He felt stupidity bubble in the back of his head. He checked his pocket watch , which he got out of his pocket so fast , it looked like he made it appear. Just as he thought , not the time for that. The slosh can be put off till later.

l've been known to cause the issue from time to time. He shouldn't have made it so easy.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Tabbie scooted a bit further out, one arm now hanging from the edge of her platform. Obviously she was growing less and less weary of him, like she was with most people, and less likely to snap at him with one of her meaner quips. There was still a possibility though.

Quite a long time, isn’t that? Most of ours.

She had a thought, and her smile had a twinge of wickedness to it.

You know, if you ever have the urge to cause a bit of trouble, I’m sure we know some people you ought to tease.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred flicked the pocket watch closed , not putting it away though , as he’s realized he simply does not want to put it back. It was a thing to hold and a thing to hold scares off the urge to pace. He didn’t mind the absence of snark for now but all cats hiss eventually , it was their nature after all , and he’d always appreciate something he can fix being pointed out.

I couldn’t possibly , it’s far too rude and I’d like to make some friends down here.

But that smile , his that is , held a similar brand of glint. Something usually only Alice could witness , in part because of the fact that she was typically the only one looking , the other part being that people tend to not believe they’re seeing it.

But if you were ever to say some names… so I can avoid it , of course.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Hm.

Tabatha lowered her brow, sly, like this would be the sort of trouble she would like to see. Well, bothering these people might gain him even more friends, really. Not that she would know, she tended to keep herself far away from anyone but Alice, and now him, she supposed.

There is a certain smoke-cloud of a boy, nearly a man, hulking himself, and his unfortunate libido, among the poor young girls in your company.

She glanced to his cot, lost in a puff as always.

Angus. He’s one to play a trick on if you want to, that is.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred’s eyes narrowed in his direction , another emotion rarely seen from him , anger. He rarely liked being frustrated , let alone angry , but for him ? That dreadful lung rotter ? He makes an exception. Deep breath in and out. Try not to breathe in dust.

I am well aware of his… attitude. I can not say that I enjoy it. He needs to keep his filthy hands to himself.

His words dripped with the venom of a man prepared to burn the world , or at least Angus. It’d make the rest of him match his lungs. Clearly , just breathing wouldn’t work.

I have a plan already , as it turns out.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Tabatha hummed in agreement. Angus reminded her so vividly of those drunken, shuffling and limping men that roamed the streets of nighttime London. They would call on her and Bonnie as they tried to find somewhere safe to sleep. Monstrous bastards, they were, and now he was.

Have you, now?

The cat purred, smiling at the barely contained flare of anger she could see from Alfred. Adorable. She could sort of understand why Alice thought so highly of the boy.

Do tell, rabbit.

She swung her legs over the edge of her perch, so she could climb down to some of the scaffolding leading up to it.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred made himself look back at her , mostly because he disgusts him but also the thought of Angus noticing and god forbid doing some flirty gesture popped into his head. He didn’t like that. He’s going to have to stare at the wall for a good while after this.

I’ve read about the effects of opium before , how it can destroy your brain and alter your state of being. Which does include confusion , I would assume he experiences it a lot , if his constant smoking was any indication.

Not a necessary explanation , he’s sure Tabatha must know that but he feels he had to give full context.

Now , in chapter four of the second Alice book , Through the Looking-Glass , Tweedledum tells Alice You know very well you’re not real. I believe that alone is enough to mess with him for a good amount of time.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Tabbie hummed, as she debated on coming down to actually speak with him, but she didn’t do it yet. Maybe when Alice woke up, she would. She couldn’t admit it to herself right now, but she would do anything that girl asked. She remained leaned out, allowing herself to be in the light. She might even look shorter than one would expect her to be, sitting there.

I did watch that puffing fool run into one of the handrail poles inside one of the tram cars once. Three times.

She chuckled, confirming his assumption the best she could.

Now that ought to do it.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred swore if he hadn’t already mentally assigned the dodo to Dodgy , Angus’d get the label swift as lightning. He knew the dodo wasn’t exactly a dumb type of bird , none of them were , but people did associate it with being less than intelligent and that was good enough for him.

Doesn’t surprise me all that much , his braincells are practically floating off with every puff of smoke.

He now wasn’t in the particular mood to laugh along , but he did prefer Tabatha liking him so he’ll make a small , polite enough chuckle.

It sounds like the perfect plan. Although , I’m not quite sure Alice would approve.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Tabs demeanor almost visibly softened at the mention of Alice, her eyes trailing down to her cot before snapping back up to Alfred. Her grin returned.

Well, if he stops terrorizing the poor girl after, I hope she wouldn’t mind all that much.

She noticed how angry he looked, and how unthreatening that was even when he was certainly hopping mad. The rabbit had his ears pinned, adorable.

Though, I definitely think you’d be able to get away with it. If he told anyone they wouldn’t believe such a thing. You? Sweet, innocent blue-eyed boy, teasing him?

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Poor thing. Too sweet of a face to be taken seriously. He’s well aware of the fact , thanks to the oh so kind boys of his former school. And Alice , though he wasn’t as upset over her teasings.

I think he’d be better off not being able to do anything at all.

One of these days ( quite soon of a date , judging by the boil of his blood. ) , he’ll start a proper fight. He swears it ! Never mind the only fighting he’s done has been verbal , and with his brother. He’ll manage.

This wouldn’t be the first time I’ve been told that , if you believe it. I’m sure you do.

Unfortunately , his face took to a bit more pink than what was already there. It wasn’t helping her point.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

It was a quieter day in the underground , rather boring. Which meant Alfred was bored as well , much too calm. Out of an old habit , he started making bird calls , specifically a magpie’s. It echoed through the tunnel almost obnoxiously.

Tabatha, of course, heard that noise. See, that was not a noise of a person, or so she thought. She moved herself a bit closer to the opening of her personal cavern embedded in the tiled wall, reached a hand down on the edge to stabilize herself, and poked her head from the dark. A rare occurrence on such a slow day.

Was there some sort of bird in here?

( @thesecretkeptfromalltherest )

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

You would assume a bird , but none could be found. What could be , however , was some disgruntled- or in the case of certain gossipers , intrigued- stares over at Alfred. Who did indeed sit there on his cot , making his calls whilst unaware of how loud he was being. He might not even be in this moment , if his lack of reaction from the stares told her anything.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Tabatha tilted her head slightly as she connected the dots. Was he making that noise? That was impressive enough, but it didn’t even look like he was doing anything at all down there. He seemed off in his own world. Hm. She turned, to hang upside down from her perch, her head tilting back against the wall. She decided maybe she ought to talk to the boy.

Psst.

She hissed, to get his attention.

Alfred.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred jumped , yes , he had been very much in his own little world , back at his beloved once was zoo perhaps. He stopped his bird song , glancing around for the Tabatha he knew he heard. Part of him did expect to see her with Alice on her cot , as she liked to be , but no. In fact she was upside down , hanging from her shadows. His eyebrows furrowed but he smiled either way.

He took little time to get over to her , it was easy to move fast when your legs are practically yard sticks.

Good afternoon , Tabatha.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Hello.

Tabatha’s Cheshire grin formed on her face as always. No, as much time as she spent with Alice now, she was up on her platform. Honestly, she was playing up the mystery of herself a little bit. She did find that fun.

Is that your song, boy? That bird call?

She turned herself right side up again, resting her hands on what would have been her paws, if she was truly a cat.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred could easily picture her in that storybook tree , that was basically what this little hideout was , a tree substitute. Although , he wasn’t quite the Alice suited for the scene. He supposed he could make an exception , perhaps the cat stopping the rabbit on his late run to the queen to talk. In betweens of the story could still exist..

Not mine , it’s the marvelous magpie’s. Alas she’s not here , I’m simply singing it for her.

He was aware of them not being in the story , though being in a good place for it , but it was nice to think of it as such. It occupies him as Alice is taking her nap and can’t talk of their wonders.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Tabatha huffed in slight laughter at that. She had been asking him if he was the one making that noise, but not only did that answer her question, it also certainly amused her.

Singing for her, the magpie?

She continued her laugh. My, he was just as imaginative as Alice. These certainly felt like in-betweens, but they were the in betweens of dodging of dodging death, day by day, big events like that. The calm before the panic. So yes, it could have been the rabbit taking a break to speak with the Cheshire. She remained as calm as ever, looking down at him.

I suppose that seems appropriate.

She shrugged.

And you’ve got quite the impression of it, you know. It made me believe there may be a real bird trapped down here with the rest of us.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

How else could I remember her song ?

Alfred imagined that magpie on the river bank , one he’s played for Alice for countless afternoons. She would not have liked his talking to the cat , as most birds would , he’d be sure not to tell her of this bit should they speak again , only that his memory of song could not compare to the real one. Flattery got him quite far there.

He smiled , the obvious nose twitch included. He was very proud of his calls.

I’ve practiced for almost as long as I’ve been the rabbit , it used to come quite in handy when I thought my brother knew too much peace.

His older brother always had an odd fear of a bird being in the house , probably fearing the thing would mess up his sports trophies or perhaps it was just because they’re an awful hassle to get out.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Tabatha found herself chuckling again. She wouldn’t have assumed he enjoyed that sort of mischief from time to time! She’d assumed he was this sort of polite all the time. She remained in her spot there, head resting on her hands, comfortable.

And how long have you been the rabbit, exactly?

She was humoring him, mostly. Alice liked him, so she supposed she wasn’t bothered to continue a conversation.

I didn’t know you to be able to cause such trouble, Mr. Hallam.

A playful jab.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred has realized he's just been standing all this time but he wasn’t quite sure what to do about it. He thought it'd feel weird if he were to sit down , furthering the distance between them is unnecessary. Pacing was a nice option , but it might make him seem disinterested. Staying put should be fine for now.

Twelve years just about. At least that was when I was conscious enough to know it.

He felt stupidity bubble in the back of his head. He checked his pocket watch , which he got out of his pocket so fast , it looked like he made it appear. Just as he thought , not the time for that. The slosh can be put off till later.

l've been known to cause the issue from time to time. He shouldn't have made it so easy.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Tabbie scooted a bit further out, one arm now hanging from the edge of her platform. Obviously she was growing less and less weary of him, like she was with most people, and less likely to snap at him with one of her meaner quips. There was still a possibility though.

Quite a long time, isn’t that? Most of ours.

She had a thought, and her smile had a twinge of wickedness to it.

You know, if you ever have the urge to cause a bit of trouble, I’m sure we know some people you ought to tease.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred flicked the pocket watch closed , not putting it away though , as he’s realized he simply does not want to put it back. It was a thing to hold and a thing to hold scares off the urge to pace. He didn’t mind the absence of snark for now but all cats hiss eventually , it was their nature after all , and he’d always appreciate something he can fix being pointed out.

I couldn’t possibly , it’s far too rude and I’d like to make some friends down here.

But that smile , his that is , held a similar brand of glint. Something usually only Alice could witness , in part because of the fact that she was typically the only one looking , the other part being that people tend to not believe they’re seeing it.

But if you were ever to say some names… so I can avoid it , of course.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Hm.

Tabatha lowered her brow, sly, like this would be the sort of trouble she would like to see. Well, bothering these people might gain him even more friends, really. Not that she would know, she tended to keep herself far away from anyone but Alice, and now him, she supposed.

There is a certain smoke-cloud of a boy, nearly a man, hulking himself, and his unfortunate libido, among the poor young girls in your company.

She glanced to his cot, lost in a puff as always.

Angus. He’s one to play a trick on if you want to, that is.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred’s eyes narrowed in his direction , another emotion rarely seen from him , anger. He rarely liked being frustrated , let alone angry , but for him ? That dreadful lung rotter ? He makes an exception. Deep breath in and out. Try not to breathe in dust.

I am well aware of his… attitude. I can not say that I enjoy it. He needs to keep his filthy hands to himself.

His words dripped with the venom of a man prepared to burn the world , or at least Angus. It’d make the rest of him match his lungs. Clearly , just breathing wouldn’t work.

I have a plan already , as it turns out.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Tabatha hummed in agreement. Angus reminded her so vividly of those drunken, shuffling and limping men that roamed the streets of nighttime London. They would call on her and Bonnie as they tried to find somewhere safe to sleep. Monstrous bastards, they were, and now he was.

Have you, now?

The cat purred, smiling at the barely contained flare of anger she could see from Alfred. Adorable. She could sort of understand why Alice thought so highly of the boy.

Do tell, rabbit.

She swung her legs over the edge of her perch, so she could climb down to some of the scaffolding leading up to it.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred made himself look back at her , mostly because he disgusts him but also the thought of Angus noticing and god forbid doing some flirty gesture popped into his head. He didn’t like that. He’s going to have to stare at the wall for a good while after this.

I’ve read about the effects of opium before , how it can destroy your brain and alter your state of being. Which does include confusion , I would assume he experiences it a lot , if his constant smoking was any indication.

Not a necessary explanation , he’s sure Tabatha must know that but he feels he had to give full context.

Now , in chapter four of the second Alice book , Through the Looking-Glass , Tweedledum tells Alice You know very well you’re not real. I believe that alone is enough to mess with him for a good amount of time.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Tabbie hummed, as she debated on coming down to actually speak with him, but she didn’t do it yet. Maybe when Alice woke up, she would. She couldn’t admit it to herself right now, but she would do anything that girl asked. She remained leaned out, allowing herself to be in the light. She might even look shorter than one would expect her to be, sitting there.

I did watch that puffing fool run into one of the handrail poles inside one of the tram cars once. Three times.

She chuckled, confirming his assumption the best she could.

Now that ought to do it.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred swore if he hadn’t already mentally assigned the dodo to Dodgy , Angus’d get the label swift as lightning. He knew the dodo wasn’t exactly a dumb type of bird , none of them were , but people did associate it with being less than intelligent and that was good enough for him.

Doesn’t surprise me all that much , his braincells are practically floating off with every puff of smoke.

He now wasn’t in the particular mood to laugh along , but he did prefer Tabatha liking him so he’ll make a small , polite enough chuckle.

It sounds like the perfect plan. Although , I’m not quite sure Alice would approve.

[if-you-knew-time-as-we-did]

The two had been playing cards in a more normal moment of Harold’s. Alfred , despite loving to be polite , could not keep eye contact , at least not with Harold’s face , instead with his short amount of hair. He truly couldn’t tell you what possessed him to be like this , perhaps just wanting to know what it felt like. He found out , as it seems his hand made its way up there by itself , and without asking him or himself first.

( @thesecretkeptfromalltherest )

Harold had been fidgeting with the playing cards, shuffling them between rounds of their game. However, when Alfred put his hand on his head, he paused, looking up. He stared, wide eyed, and quiet. He didn’t pull away or anything, he just looked at him! After a second, though, he leaned his head forward, making it easier for him to reach.

( @thesecretkeptfromalltherest )

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred’s eyes went equally wide , he didn’t mean to , truly ! He wished he did ask , it was a bit too late for that now , perhaps if he slowly moved away— Oh , no ? Harold’s leaned forward ? He’ll take that as a sign he’s not upset about it , he thinks. He moved his hand about , just feeling the shortened hair. It felt weird but good weird , he decided. He hasn’t felt any close shaved hair in quite some time , his father used to let him do it when he was much smaller.

[if-you-knew-time-as-we-did]

Harold remained silent for a couple seconds, and then slowly lifted his hand, reaching out and putting his own hand on Alfred’s head. His hand was pretty big, and heavy, but it certainly didn’t mean any harm. He copied his motion, rubbing his hand back and forth. Yes, it is mess up Alfred’s hair. A slight smile crossed his usually relaxed face.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred’s face turned its usual red , though this was an unusual occasion for it to show up. He could think about that later though , as for when he had started , he could feel his head start to twist and teeth start to grind. This was hardly the setting for all that , he feared he didn’t know if he was close enough with Harold to act like this.

[if-you-knew-time-as-we-did]

Harold tilted his head a little at him, not that he was trying to knock his hand off, just that he saw what he was doing, and he didn’t know know what it was. He found himself giggling at it, though.

Alfred-! What are you doingg-?

His voice slurred, as it always seemed to just a little bit. Apparently he hasn’t done that before he knocked his head in the battlefield. He lifted his hand a second, before putting it back down. Yeah he didn’t wanna stop.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred’s hand managed to follow the tilt , most likely not wanting to move even if it was an attempt to be knocked off. He almost straightened his head , as well as his posture since he’s noticed he’s become quite hunched since he first sat down , but he didn’t. He did unclench his jaw , however.

They’re rabbit mannerisms , I’ve memorized them before , they always seem to come back at.. inopportune times.

He looked to the side , very much redder than before. Technically , he didn’t lie ! They were learned mannerisms but usually he didn’t try to hide from them , being used to Alice.

[if-you-knew-time-as-we-did]

Harold giggled some more, his hand still running through Alfred’s. Not so much messing it up anymore, more like he, too, was just feeling the texture.

I quite like it-! Rabbits- rabbits- Peter rabbit lost one of his shoes among the cabbages-

He mumbled that last part. He occasionally did that, recite things from memory. He usually did it with military orders or commands or something about tea, but occasionally it’s something even earlier than that. Obviously that sort of line was from his childhood somewhere. He giggled, suddenly back to his somewhat normal demeanor he had while they were playing cards.

I quite like it! It’s cute!

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred wouldn’t be quick to admit that he could feel himself melting into said touch , not that he was ashamed of it , he did like affection on the occasion. He did worry that his hair was greasy , because it was. He could feel that it was , he did not like it.

And the other shoe amongst the potatoes.

Of course he knew the next line , why wouldn’t he ? He did have to stop from going on more , that was not the conversation here.

His nose scrunched , oh , his heart’s going a little too fast. Yes , he has been made very aware thanks to a certain girl and very flamboyant boy that he acts “cute” and he was equally aware that rabbits were cute but he was a boy , he can’t possibly be that cute.

Rabbits are quite enchanting creatures , I believe modeling myself after them might come back to bite me sooner or later , you know.

[if-you-knew-time-as-we-did]

Harold didn’t care at all about his hair. Hell, he didn’t even notice if it was greasy. He moved his head a little toward his hand again.

Mum- shheeee- she used t’ read that book when… Lilypad was a girl-

He mumbled on. He seemed to have to force his words out of himself, like he was struggling to remember it. But he did! He remembered! That was good sign. Maybe he had a chance to heal, just maybe.

—And I could hear it through the walls-!

His laugh returned, just for a second.

I- I enjoy this, you know- you’re sweet- Allfreddd-

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred made a small hum to let him know he was indeed listening , it was a little hard to hear over all the red and affection and yes that does affect his hearing but he was making the effort at least. Oh dear , oh dear , his thoughts were going stupid , he could sense it.

I have to say , Harold , you’re quite winsome yourself.

He does so love his stupid big words. He wasn’t sure if Harold was the correct audience for them but he shouldn’t assume that because one is injured , they couldn’t comprehend slightly bigger words.

On top of that , your hair is a delightful texture , I think. If you don’t mind me saying.

[if-you-knew-time-as-we-did]

Harold didn’t know what that word meant, but he took it as complimentary. His hand ended up moving from his hair to cup his cheek. It was something he knew was liked, right? He could remember that. He remained awfully calm, which was most definitely a good sign.

I don’t mind at all- it usssedd to be- longer I think- before I went t’- before I signed up-

He rambled on, his head leaning a bit further toward him.

Used t’ beee- long enough to comb back-

His callused thumb brushed against his cheekbone, mindlessly affectionate.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

All went pudding , the dessert , not the man- though perhaps that too. His properisms , good posture and fluffy words alike practically leaking out of his ears as more blood found themselves settled along with the cartilage. This was indeed quite the liked action.

I’m sure you were quite the man’s man.

He may have spoken a bit louder than he meant to , a product of excitement he didn’t have the brains to mask until it was far too late.

Not to say that you aren’t now— you’re just as much of one now—

Evidently , as it was working very well on him. Oh , is that what this is ? Oh dear.

[if-you-knew-time-as-we-did]

Harold kept going with that motion, his other hand moving to the other side of Alfred’s face, mirroring the action there.

I was- I think I was—

He mumbled, squinting like he tried to remember such a thing. Well, he’d only ever had one boyfriend, but he’d had a hundred girlfriends! Maybe that was the sign he didn’t really like them after all.

Am I, really? You think so?

His face contorted into a lopsided smile, like somewhere he remembered how to flirt like this.

I’m uh.. I’m under the impression you’re not so bad yourself..

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred’s hand had stilled , its position seemed to be lost on the boy as he’s quite preoccupied with all this. Not that he’d want to move it yet despite the obvious slumping he’s started to do.

You’re very charming , I think you’ve still got it.

He wondered if it’d weird if he closes his eyes. This was quite relaxing , but then again , he didn’t want to look away from Harold. Half lidded should be a good compromise , right ?

Are you ? That’s very.. sweet.

He’s struggling for words. Billions of them constantly floated around in his head but it seemed like Harold chased them all away , he wasn’t going to complain.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

It was a quieter day in the underground , rather boring. Which meant Alfred was bored as well , much too calm. Out of an old habit , he started making bird calls , specifically a magpie’s. It echoed through the tunnel almost obnoxiously.

Tabatha, of course, heard that noise. See, that was not a noise of a person, or so she thought. She moved herself a bit closer to the opening of her personal cavern embedded in the tiled wall, reached a hand down on the edge to stabilize herself, and poked her head from the dark. A rare occurrence on such a slow day.

Was there some sort of bird in here?

( @thesecretkeptfromalltherest )

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

You would assume a bird , but none could be found. What could be , however , was some disgruntled- or in the case of certain gossipers , intrigued- stares over at Alfred. Who did indeed sit there on his cot , making his calls whilst unaware of how loud he was being. He might not even be in this moment , if his lack of reaction from the stares told her anything.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Tabatha tilted her head slightly as she connected the dots. Was he making that noise? That was impressive enough, but it didn’t even look like he was doing anything at all down there. He seemed off in his own world. Hm. She turned, to hang upside down from her perch, her head tilting back against the wall. She decided maybe she ought to talk to the boy.

Psst.

She hissed, to get his attention.

Alfred.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred jumped , yes , he had been very much in his own little world , back at his beloved once was zoo perhaps. He stopped his bird song , glancing around for the Tabatha he knew he heard. Part of him did expect to see her with Alice on her cot , as she liked to be , but no. In fact she was upside down , hanging from her shadows. His eyebrows furrowed but he smiled either way.

He took little time to get over to her , it was easy to move fast when your legs are practically yard sticks.

Good afternoon , Tabatha.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Hello.

Tabatha’s Cheshire grin formed on her face as always. No, as much time as she spent with Alice now, she was up on her platform. Honestly, she was playing up the mystery of herself a little bit. She did find that fun.

Is that your song, boy? That bird call?

She turned herself right side up again, resting her hands on what would have been her paws, if she was truly a cat.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred could easily picture her in that storybook tree , that was basically what this little hideout was , a tree substitute. Although , he wasn’t quite the Alice suited for the scene. He supposed he could make an exception , perhaps the cat stopping the rabbit on his late run to the queen to talk. In betweens of the story could still exist..

Not mine , it’s the marvelous magpie’s. Alas she’s not here , I’m simply singing it for her.

He was aware of them not being in the story , though being in a good place for it , but it was nice to think of it as such. It occupies him as Alice is taking her nap and can’t talk of their wonders.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Tabatha huffed in slight laughter at that. She had been asking him if he was the one making that noise, but not only did that answer her question, it also certainly amused her.

Singing for her, the magpie?

She continued her laugh. My, he was just as imaginative as Alice. These certainly felt like in-betweens, but they were the in betweens of dodging of dodging death, day by day, big events like that. The calm before the panic. So yes, it could have been the rabbit taking a break to speak with the Cheshire. She remained as calm as ever, looking down at him.

I suppose that seems appropriate.

She shrugged.

And you’ve got quite the impression of it, you know. It made me believe there may be a real bird trapped down here with the rest of us.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

How else could I remember her song ?

Alfred imagined that magpie on the river bank , one he’s played for Alice for countless afternoons. She would not have liked his talking to the cat , as most birds would , he’d be sure not to tell her of this bit should they speak again , only that his memory of song could not compare to the real one. Flattery got him quite far there.

He smiled , the obvious nose twitch included. He was very proud of his calls.

I’ve practiced for almost as long as I’ve been the rabbit , it used to come quite in handy when I thought my brother knew too much peace.

His older brother always had an odd fear of a bird being in the house , probably fearing the thing would mess up his sports trophies or perhaps it was just because they’re an awful hassle to get out.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Tabatha found herself chuckling again. She wouldn’t have assumed he enjoyed that sort of mischief from time to time! She’d assumed he was this sort of polite all the time. She remained in her spot there, head resting on her hands, comfortable.

And how long have you been the rabbit, exactly?

She was humoring him, mostly. Alice liked him, so she supposed she wasn’t bothered to continue a conversation.

I didn’t know you to be able to cause such trouble, Mr. Hallam.

A playful jab.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred has realized he's just been standing all this time but he wasn’t quite sure what to do about it. He thought it'd feel weird if he were to sit down , furthering the distance between them is unnecessary. Pacing was a nice option , but it might make him seem disinterested. Staying put should be fine for now.

Twelve years just about. At least that was when I was conscious enough to know it.

He felt stupidity bubble in the back of his head. He checked his pocket watch , which he got out of his pocket so fast , it looked like he made it appear. Just as he thought , not the time for that. The slosh can be put off till later.

l've been known to cause the issue from time to time. He shouldn't have made it so easy.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Tabbie scooted a bit further out, one arm now hanging from the edge of her platform. Obviously she was growing less and less weary of him, like she was with most people, and less likely to snap at him with one of her meaner quips. There was still a possibility though.

Quite a long time, isn’t that? Most of ours.

She had a thought, and her smile had a twinge of wickedness to it.

You know, if you ever have the urge to cause a bit of trouble, I’m sure we know some people you ought to tease.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred flicked the pocket watch closed , not putting it away though , as he’s realized he simply does not want to put it back. It was a thing to hold and a thing to hold scares off the urge to pace. He didn’t mind the absence of snark for now but all cats hiss eventually , it was their nature after all , and he’d always appreciate something he can fix being pointed out.

I couldn’t possibly , it’s far too rude and I’d like to make some friends down here.

But that smile , his that is , held a similar brand of glint. Something usually only Alice could witness , in part because of the fact that she was typically the only one looking , the other part being that people tend to not believe they’re seeing it.

But if you were ever to say some names… so I can avoid it , of course.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Hm.

Tabatha lowered her brow, sly, like this would be the sort of trouble she would like to see. Well, bothering these people might gain him even more friends, really. Not that she would know, she tended to keep herself far away from anyone but Alice, and now him, she supposed.

There is a certain smoke-cloud of a boy, nearly a man, hulking himself, and his unfortunate libido, among the poor young girls in your company.

She glanced to his cot, lost in a puff as always.

Angus. He’s one to play a trick on if you want to, that is.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred’s eyes narrowed in his direction , another emotion rarely seen from him , anger. He rarely liked being frustrated , let alone angry , but for him ? That dreadful lung rotter ? He makes an exception. Deep breath in and out. Try not to breathe in dust.

I am well aware of his… attitude. I can not say that I enjoy it. He needs to keep his filthy hands to himself.

His words dripped with the venom of a man prepared to burn the world , or at least Angus. It’d make the rest of him match his lungs. Clearly , just breathing wouldn’t work.

I have a plan already , as it turns out.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Tabatha hummed in agreement. Angus reminded her so vividly of those drunken, shuffling and limping men that roamed the streets of nighttime London. They would call on her and Bonnie as they tried to find somewhere safe to sleep. Monstrous bastards, they were, and now he was.

Have you, now?

The cat purred, smiling at the barely contained flare of anger she could see from Alfred. Adorable. She could sort of understand why Alice thought so highly of the boy.

Do tell, rabbit.

She swung her legs over the edge of her perch, so she could climb down to some of the scaffolding leading up to it.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred made himself look back at her , mostly because he disgusts him but also the thought of Angus noticing and god forbid doing some flirty gesture popped into his head. He didn’t like that. He’s going to have to stare at the wall for a good while after this.

I’ve read about the effects of opium before , how it can destroy your brain and alter your state of being. Which does include confusion , I would assume he experiences it a lot , if his constant smoking was any indication.

Not a necessary explanation , he’s sure Tabatha must know that but he feels he had to give full context.

Now , in chapter four of the second Alice book , Through the Looking-Glass , Tweedledum tells Alice You know very well you’re not real. I believe that alone is enough to mess with him for a good amount of time.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

It was a quieter day in the underground , rather boring. Which meant Alfred was bored as well , much too calm. Out of an old habit , he started making bird calls , specifically a magpie’s. It echoed through the tunnel almost obnoxiously.

Tabatha, of course, heard that noise. See, that was not a noise of a person, or so she thought. She moved herself a bit closer to the opening of her personal cavern embedded in the tiled wall, reached a hand down on the edge to stabilize herself, and poked her head from the dark. A rare occurrence on such a slow day.

Was there some sort of bird in here?

( @thesecretkeptfromalltherest )

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

You would assume a bird , but none could be found. What could be , however , was some disgruntled- or in the case of certain gossipers , intrigued- stares over at Alfred. Who did indeed sit there on his cot , making his calls whilst unaware of how loud he was being. He might not even be in this moment , if his lack of reaction from the stares told her anything.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Tabatha tilted her head slightly as she connected the dots. Was he making that noise? That was impressive enough, but it didn’t even look like he was doing anything at all down there. He seemed off in his own world. Hm. She turned, to hang upside down from her perch, her head tilting back against the wall. She decided maybe she ought to talk to the boy.

Psst.

She hissed, to get his attention.

Alfred.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred jumped , yes , he had been very much in his own little world , back at his beloved once was zoo perhaps. He stopped his bird song , glancing around for the Tabatha he knew he heard. Part of him did expect to see her with Alice on her cot , as she liked to be , but no. In fact she was upside down , hanging from her shadows. His eyebrows furrowed but he smiled either way.

He took little time to get over to her , it was easy to move fast when your legs are practically yard sticks.

Good afternoon , Tabatha.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Hello.

Tabatha’s Cheshire grin formed on her face as always. No, as much time as she spent with Alice now, she was up on her platform. Honestly, she was playing up the mystery of herself a little bit. She did find that fun.

Is that your song, boy? That bird call?

She turned herself right side up again, resting her hands on what would have been her paws, if she was truly a cat.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred could easily picture her in that storybook tree , that was basically what this little hideout was , a tree substitute. Although , he wasn’t quite the Alice suited for the scene. He supposed he could make an exception , perhaps the cat stopping the rabbit on his late run to the queen to talk. In betweens of the story could still exist..

Not mine , it’s the marvelous magpie’s. Alas she’s not here , I’m simply singing it for her.

He was aware of them not being in the story , though being in a good place for it , but it was nice to think of it as such. It occupies him as Alice is taking her nap and can’t talk of their wonders.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Tabatha huffed in slight laughter at that. She had been asking him if he was the one making that noise, but not only did that answer her question, it also certainly amused her.

Singing for her, the magpie?

She continued her laugh. My, he was just as imaginative as Alice. These certainly felt like in-betweens, but they were the in betweens of dodging of dodging death, day by day, big events like that. The calm before the panic. So yes, it could have been the rabbit taking a break to speak with the Cheshire. She remained as calm as ever, looking down at him.

I suppose that seems appropriate.

She shrugged.

And you’ve got quite the impression of it, you know. It made me believe there may be a real bird trapped down here with the rest of us.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

How else could I remember her song ?

Alfred imagined that magpie on the river bank , one he’s played for Alice for countless afternoons. She would not have liked his talking to the cat , as most birds would , he’d be sure not to tell her of this bit should they speak again , only that his memory of song could not compare to the real one. Flattery got him quite far there.

He smiled , the obvious nose twitch included. He was very proud of his calls.

I’ve practiced for almost as long as I’ve been the rabbit , it used to come quite in handy when I thought my brother knew too much peace.

His older brother always had an odd fear of a bird being in the house , probably fearing the thing would mess up his sports trophies or perhaps it was just because they’re an awful hassle to get out.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Tabatha found herself chuckling again. She wouldn’t have assumed he enjoyed that sort of mischief from time to time! She’d assumed he was this sort of polite all the time. She remained in her spot there, head resting on her hands, comfortable.

And how long have you been the rabbit, exactly?

She was humoring him, mostly. Alice liked him, so she supposed she wasn’t bothered to continue a conversation.

I didn’t know you to be able to cause such trouble, Mr. Hallam.

A playful jab.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred has realized he's just been standing all this time but he wasn’t quite sure what to do about it. He thought it'd feel weird if he were to sit down , furthering the distance between them is unnecessary. Pacing was a nice option , but it might make him seem disinterested. Staying put should be fine for now.

Twelve years just about. At least that was when I was conscious enough to know it.

He felt stupidity bubble in the back of his head. He checked his pocket watch , which he got out of his pocket so fast , it looked like he made it appear. Just as he thought , not the time for that. The slosh can be put off till later.

l've been known to cause the issue from time to time. He shouldn't have made it so easy.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Tabbie scooted a bit further out, one arm now hanging from the edge of her platform. Obviously she was growing less and less weary of him, like she was with most people, and less likely to snap at him with one of her meaner quips. There was still a possibility though.

Quite a long time, isn’t that? Most of ours.

She had a thought, and her smile had a twinge of wickedness to it.

You know, if you ever have the urge to cause a bit of trouble, I’m sure we know some people you ought to tease.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred flicked the pocket watch closed , not putting it away though , as he’s realized he simply does not want to put it back. It was a thing to hold and a thing to hold scares off the urge to pace. He didn’t mind the absence of snark for now but all cats hiss eventually , it was their nature after all , and he’d always appreciate something he can fix being pointed out.

I couldn’t possibly , it’s far too rude and I’d like to make some friends down here.

But that smile , his that is , held a similar brand of glint. Something usually only Alice could witness , in part because of the fact that she was typically the only one looking , the other part being that people tend to not believe they’re seeing it.

But if you were ever to say some names… so I can avoid it , of course.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Hm.

Tabatha lowered her brow, sly, like this would be the sort of trouble she would like to see. Well, bothering these people might gain him even more friends, really. Not that she would know, she tended to keep herself far away from anyone but Alice, and now him, she supposed.

There is a certain smoke-cloud of a boy, nearly a man, hulking himself, and his unfortunate libido, among the poor young girls in your company.

She glanced to his cot, lost in a puff as always.

Angus. He’s one to play a trick on if you want to, that is.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred’s eyes narrowed in his direction , another emotion rarely seen from him , anger. He rarely liked being frustrated , let alone angry , but for him ? That dreadful lung rotter ? He makes an exception. Deep breath in and out. Try not to breathe in dust.

I am well aware of his… attitude. I can not say that I enjoy it. He needs to keep his filthy hands to himself.

His words dripped with the venom of a man prepared to burn the world , or at least Angus. It’d make the rest of him match his lungs. Clearly , just breathing wouldn’t work.

I have a plan already , as it turns out.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

It was a quieter day in the underground , rather boring. Which meant Alfred was bored as well , much too calm. Out of an old habit , he started making bird calls , specifically a magpie’s. It echoed through the tunnel almost obnoxiously.

Tabatha, of course, heard that noise. See, that was not a noise of a person, or so she thought. She moved herself a bit closer to the opening of her personal cavern embedded in the tiled wall, reached a hand down on the edge to stabilize herself, and poked her head from the dark. A rare occurrence on such a slow day.

Was there some sort of bird in here?

( @thesecretkeptfromalltherest )

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

You would assume a bird , but none could be found. What could be , however , was some disgruntled- or in the case of certain gossipers , intrigued- stares over at Alfred. Who did indeed sit there on his cot , making his calls whilst unaware of how loud he was being. He might not even be in this moment , if his lack of reaction from the stares told her anything.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Tabatha tilted her head slightly as she connected the dots. Was he making that noise? That was impressive enough, but it didn’t even look like he was doing anything at all down there. He seemed off in his own world. Hm. She turned, to hang upside down from her perch, her head tilting back against the wall. She decided maybe she ought to talk to the boy.

Psst.

She hissed, to get his attention.

Alfred.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred jumped , yes , he had been very much in his own little world , back at his beloved once was zoo perhaps. He stopped his bird song , glancing around for the Tabatha he knew he heard. Part of him did expect to see her with Alice on her cot , as she liked to be , but no. In fact she was upside down , hanging from her shadows. His eyebrows furrowed but he smiled either way.

He took little time to get over to her , it was easy to move fast when your legs are practically yard sticks.

Good afternoon , Tabatha.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Hello.

Tabatha’s Cheshire grin formed on her face as always. No, as much time as she spent with Alice now, she was up on her platform. Honestly, she was playing up the mystery of herself a little bit. She did find that fun.

Is that your song, boy? That bird call?

She turned herself right side up again, resting her hands on what would have been her paws, if she was truly a cat.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred could easily picture her in that storybook tree , that was basically what this little hideout was , a tree substitute. Although , he wasn’t quite the Alice suited for the scene. He supposed he could make an exception , perhaps the cat stopping the rabbit on his late run to the queen to talk. In betweens of the story could still exist..

Not mine , it’s the marvelous magpie’s. Alas she’s not here , I’m simply singing it for her.

He was aware of them not being in the story , though being in a good place for it , but it was nice to think of it as such. It occupies him as Alice is taking her nap and can’t talk of their wonders.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Tabatha huffed in slight laughter at that. She had been asking him if he was the one making that noise, but not only did that answer her question, it also certainly amused her.

Singing for her, the magpie?

She continued her laugh. My, he was just as imaginative as Alice. These certainly felt like in-betweens, but they were the in betweens of dodging of dodging death, day by day, big events like that. The calm before the panic. So yes, it could have been the rabbit taking a break to speak with the Cheshire. She remained as calm as ever, looking down at him.

I suppose that seems appropriate.

She shrugged.

And you’ve got quite the impression of it, you know. It made me believe there may be a real bird trapped down here with the rest of us.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

How else could I remember her song ?

Alfred imagined that magpie on the river bank , one he’s played for Alice for countless afternoons. She would not have liked his talking to the cat , as most birds would , he’d be sure not to tell her of this bit should they speak again , only that his memory of song could not compare to the real one. Flattery got him quite far there.

He smiled , the obvious nose twitch included. He was very proud of his calls.

I’ve practiced for almost as long as I’ve been the rabbit , it used to come quite in handy when I thought my brother knew too much peace.

His older brother always had an odd fear of a bird being in the house , probably fearing the thing would mess up his sports trophies or perhaps it was just because they’re an awful hassle to get out.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Tabatha found herself chuckling again. She wouldn’t have assumed he enjoyed that sort of mischief from time to time! She’d assumed he was this sort of polite all the time. She remained in her spot there, head resting on her hands, comfortable.

And how long have you been the rabbit, exactly?

She was humoring him, mostly. Alice liked him, so she supposed she wasn’t bothered to continue a conversation.

I didn’t know you to be able to cause such trouble, Mr. Hallam.

A playful jab.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred has realized he's just been standing all this time but he wasn’t quite sure what to do about it. He thought it'd feel weird if he were to sit down , furthering the distance between them is unnecessary. Pacing was a nice option , but it might make him seem disinterested. Staying put should be fine for now.

Twelve years just about. At least that was when I was conscious enough to know it.

He felt stupidity bubble in the back of his head. He checked his pocket watch , which he got out of his pocket so fast , it looked like he made it appear. Just as he thought , not the time for that. The slosh can be put off till later.

l've been known to cause the issue from time to time. He shouldn't have made it so easy.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Tabbie scooted a bit further out, one arm now hanging from the edge of her platform. Obviously she was growing less and less weary of him, like she was with most people, and less likely to snap at him with one of her meaner quips. There was still a possibility though.

Quite a long time, isn’t that? Most of ours.

She had a thought, and her smile had a twinge of wickedness to it.

You know, if you ever have the urge to cause a bit of trouble, I’m sure we know some people you ought to tease.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred flicked the pocket watch closed , not putting it away though , as he’s realized he simply does not want to put it back. It was a thing to hold and a thing to hold scares off the urge to pace. He didn’t mind the absence of snark for now but all cats hiss eventually , it was their nature after all , and he’d always appreciate something he can fix being pointed out.

I couldn’t possibly , it’s far too rude and I’d like to make some friends down here.

But that smile , his that is , held a similar brand of glint. Something usually only Alice could witness , in part because of the fact that she was typically the only one looking , the other part being that people tend to not believe they’re seeing it.

But if you were ever to say some names… so I can avoid it , of course.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

It was a quieter day in the underground , rather boring. Which meant Alfred was bored as well , much too calm. Out of an old habit , he started making bird calls , specifically a magpie’s. It echoed through the tunnel almost obnoxiously.

Tabatha, of course, heard that noise. See, that was not a noise of a person, or so she thought. She moved herself a bit closer to the opening of her personal cavern embedded in the tiled wall, reached a hand down on the edge to stabilize herself, and poked her head from the dark. A rare occurrence on such a slow day.

Was there some sort of bird in here?

( @thesecretkeptfromalltherest )

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

You would assume a bird , but none could be found. What could be , however , was some disgruntled- or in the case of certain gossipers , intrigued- stares over at Alfred. Who did indeed sit there on his cot , making his calls whilst unaware of how loud he was being. He might not even be in this moment , if his lack of reaction from the stares told her anything.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Tabatha tilted her head slightly as she connected the dots. Was he making that noise? That was impressive enough, but it didn’t even look like he was doing anything at all down there. He seemed off in his own world. Hm. She turned, to hang upside down from her perch, her head tilting back against the wall. She decided maybe she ought to talk to the boy.

Psst.

She hissed, to get his attention.

Alfred.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred jumped , yes , he had been very much in his own little world , back at his beloved once was zoo perhaps. He stopped his bird song , glancing around for the Tabatha he knew he heard. Part of him did expect to see her with Alice on her cot , as she liked to be , but no. In fact she was upside down , hanging from her shadows. His eyebrows furrowed but he smiled either way.

He took little time to get over to her , it was easy to move fast when your legs are practically yard sticks.

Good afternoon , Tabatha.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Hello.

Tabatha’s Cheshire grin formed on her face as always. No, as much time as she spent with Alice now, she was up on her platform. Honestly, she was playing up the mystery of herself a little bit. She did find that fun.

Is that your song, boy? That bird call?

She turned herself right side up again, resting her hands on what would have been her paws, if she was truly a cat.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred could easily picture her in that storybook tree , that was basically what this little hideout was , a tree substitute. Although , he wasn’t quite the Alice suited for the scene. He supposed he could make an exception , perhaps the cat stopping the rabbit on his late run to the queen to talk. In betweens of the story could still exist..

Not mine , it’s the marvelous magpie’s. Alas she’s not here , I’m simply singing it for her.

He was aware of them not being in the story , though being in a good place for it , but it was nice to think of it as such. It occupies him as Alice is taking her nap and can’t talk of their wonders.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Tabatha huffed in slight laughter at that. She had been asking him if he was the one making that noise, but not only did that answer her question, it also certainly amused her.

Singing for her, the magpie?

She continued her laugh. My, he was just as imaginative as Alice. These certainly felt like in-betweens, but they were the in betweens of dodging of dodging death, day by day, big events like that. The calm before the panic. So yes, it could have been the rabbit taking a break to speak with the Cheshire. She remained as calm as ever, looking down at him.

I suppose that seems appropriate.

She shrugged.

And you’ve got quite the impression of it, you know. It made me believe there may be a real bird trapped down here with the rest of us.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

How else could I remember her song ?

Alfred imagined that magpie on the river bank , one he’s played for Alice for countless afternoons. She would not have liked his talking to the cat , as most birds would , he’d be sure not to tell her of this bit should they speak again , only that his memory of song could not compare to the real one. Flattery got him quite far there.

He smiled , the obvious nose twitch included. He was very proud of his calls.

I’ve practiced for almost as long as I’ve been the rabbit , it used to come quite in handy when I thought my brother knew too much peace.

His older brother always had an odd fear of a bird being in the house , probably fearing the thing would mess up his sports trophies or perhaps it was just because they’re an awful hassle to get out.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Tabatha found herself chuckling again. She wouldn’t have assumed he enjoyed that sort of mischief from time to time! She’d assumed he was this sort of polite all the time. She remained in her spot there, head resting on her hands, comfortable.

And how long have you been the rabbit, exactly?

She was humoring him, mostly. Alice liked him, so she supposed she wasn’t bothered to continue a conversation.

I didn’t know you to be able to cause such trouble, Mr. Hallam.

A playful jab.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred has realized he's just been standing all this time but he wasn’t quite sure what to do about it. He thought it'd feel weird if he were to sit down , furthering the distance between them is unnecessary. Pacing was a nice option , but it might make him seem disinterested. Staying put should be fine for now.

Twelve years just about. At least that was when I was conscious enough to know it.

He felt stupidity bubble in the back of his head. He checked his pocket watch , which he got out of his pocket so fast , it looked like he made it appear. Just as he thought , not the time for that. The slosh can be put off till later.

l've been known to cause the issue from time to time. He shouldn't have made it so easy.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

It was a quieter day in the underground , rather boring. Which meant Alfred was bored as well , much too calm. Out of an old habit , he started making bird calls , specifically a magpie’s. It echoed through the tunnel almost obnoxiously.

Tabatha, of course, heard that noise. See, that was not a noise of a person, or so she thought. She moved herself a bit closer to the opening of her personal cavern embedded in the tiled wall, reached a hand down on the edge to stabilize herself, and poked her head from the dark. A rare occurrence on such a slow day.

Was there some sort of bird in here?

( @thesecretkeptfromalltherest )

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

You would assume a bird , but none could be found. What could be , however , was some disgruntled- or in the case of certain gossipers , intrigued- stares over at Alfred. Who did indeed sit there on his cot , making his calls whilst unaware of how loud he was being. He might not even be in this moment , if his lack of reaction from the stares told her anything.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Tabatha tilted her head slightly as she connected the dots. Was he making that noise? That was impressive enough, but it didn’t even look like he was doing anything at all down there. He seemed off in his own world. Hm. She turned, to hang upside down from her perch, her head tilting back against the wall. She decided maybe she ought to talk to the boy.

Psst.

She hissed, to get his attention.

Alfred.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred jumped , yes , he had been very much in his own little world , back at his beloved once was zoo perhaps. He stopped his bird song , glancing around for the Tabatha he knew he heard. Part of him did expect to see her with Alice on her cot , as she liked to be , but no. In fact she was upside down , hanging from her shadows. His eyebrows furrowed but he smiled either way.

He took little time to get over to her , it was easy to move fast when your legs are practically yard sticks.

Good afternoon , Tabatha.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Hello.

Tabatha’s Cheshire grin formed on her face as always. No, as much time as she spent with Alice now, she was up on her platform. Honestly, she was playing up the mystery of herself a little bit. She did find that fun.

Is that your song, boy? That bird call?

She turned herself right side up again, resting her hands on what would have been her paws, if she was truly a cat.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred could easily picture her in that storybook tree , that was basically what this little hideout was , a tree substitute. Although , he wasn’t quite the Alice suited for the scene. He supposed he could make an exception , perhaps the cat stopping the rabbit on his late run to the queen to talk. In betweens of the story could still exist..

Not mine , it’s the marvelous magpie’s. Alas she’s not here , I’m simply singing it for her.

He was aware of them not being in the story , though being in a good place for it , but it was nice to think of it as such. It occupies him as Alice is taking her nap and can’t talk of their wonders.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Tabatha huffed in slight laughter at that. She had been asking him if he was the one making that noise, but not only did that answer her question, it also certainly amused her.

Singing for her, the magpie?

She continued her laugh. My, he was just as imaginative as Alice. These certainly felt like in-betweens, but they were the in betweens of dodging of dodging death, day by day, big events like that. The calm before the panic. So yes, it could have been the rabbit taking a break to speak with the Cheshire. She remained as calm as ever, looking down at him.

I suppose that seems appropriate.

She shrugged.

And you’ve got quite the impression of it, you know. It made me believe there may be a real bird trapped down here with the rest of us.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

How else could I remember her song ?

Alfred imagined that magpie on the river bank , one he’s played for Alice for countless afternoons. She would not have liked his talking to the cat , as most birds would , he’d be sure not to tell her of this bit should they speak again , only that his memory of song could not compare to the real one. Flattery got him quite far there.

He smiled , the obvious nose twitch included. He was very proud of his calls.

I’ve practiced for almost as long as I’ve been the rabbit , it used to come quite in handy when I thought my brother knew too much peace.

His older brother always had an odd fear of a bird being in the house , probably fearing the thing would mess up his sports trophies or perhaps it was just because they’re an awful hassle to get out.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

It was a quieter day in the underground , rather boring. Which meant Alfred was bored as well , much too calm. Out of an old habit , he started making bird calls , specifically a magpie’s. It echoed through the tunnel almost obnoxiously.

Tabatha, of course, heard that noise. See, that was not a noise of a person, or so she thought. She moved herself a bit closer to the opening of her personal cavern embedded in the tiled wall, reached a hand down on the edge to stabilize herself, and poked her head from the dark. A rare occurrence on such a slow day.

Was there some sort of bird in here?

( @thesecretkeptfromalltherest )

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

You would assume a bird , but none could be found. What could be , however , was some disgruntled- or in the case of certain gossipers , intrigued- stares over at Alfred. Who did indeed sit there on his cot , making his calls whilst unaware of how loud he was being. He might not even be in this moment , if his lack of reaction from the stares told her anything.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Tabatha tilted her head slightly as she connected the dots. Was he making that noise? That was impressive enough, but it didn’t even look like he was doing anything at all down there. He seemed off in his own world. Hm. She turned, to hang upside down from her perch, her head tilting back against the wall. She decided maybe she ought to talk to the boy.

Psst.

She hissed, to get his attention.

Alfred.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred jumped , yes , he had been very much in his own little world , back at his beloved once was zoo perhaps. He stopped his bird song , glancing around for the Tabatha he knew he heard. Part of him did expect to see her with Alice on her cot , as she liked to be , but no. In fact she was upside down , hanging from her shadows. His eyebrows furrowed but he smiled either way.

He took little time to get over to her , it was easy to move fast when your legs are practically yard sticks.

Good afternoon , Tabatha.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Hello.

Tabatha’s Cheshire grin formed on her face as always. No, as much time as she spent with Alice now, she was up on her platform. Honestly, she was playing up the mystery of herself a little bit. She did find that fun.

Is that your song, boy? That bird call?

She turned herself right side up again, resting her hands on what would have been her paws, if she was truly a cat.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred could easily picture her in that storybook tree , that was basically what this little hideout was , a tree substitute. Although , he wasn’t quite the Alice suited for the scene. He supposed he could make an exception , perhaps the cat stopping the rabbit on his late run to the queen to talk. In betweens of the story could still exist..

Not mine , it’s the marvelous magpie’s. Alas she’s not here , I’m simply singing it for her.

He was aware of them not being in the story , though being in a good place for it , but it was nice to think of it as such. It occupies him as Alice is taking her nap and can’t talk of their wonders.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

It was a quieter day in the underground , rather boring. Which meant Alfred was bored as well , much too calm. Out of an old habit , he started making bird calls , specifically a magpie’s. It echoed through the tunnel almost obnoxiously.

Tabatha, of course, heard that noise. See, that was not a noise of a person, or so she thought. She moved herself a bit closer to the opening of her personal cavern embedded in the tiled wall, reached a hand down on the edge to stabilize herself, and poked her head from the dark. A rare occurrence on such a slow day.

Was there some sort of bird in here?

( @thesecretkeptfromalltherest )

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

You would assume a bird , but none could be found. What could be , however , was some disgruntled- or in the case of certain gossipers , intrigued- stares over at Alfred. Who did indeed sit there on his cot , making his calls whilst unaware of how loud he was being. He might not even be in this moment , if his lack of reaction from the stares told her anything.

[the-world-has-lost-its-head]

Tabatha tilted her head slightly as she connected the dots. Was he making that noise? That was impressive enough, but it didn’t even look like he was doing anything at all down there. He seemed off in his own world. Hm. She turned, to hang upside down from her perch, her head tilting back against the wall. She decided maybe she ought to talk to the boy.

Psst.

She hissed, to get his attention.

Alfred.

[thesecretkeptfromalltherest]

Alfred jumped , yes , he had been very much in his own little world , back at his beloved once was zoo perhaps. He stopped his bird song , glancing around for the Tabatha he knew he heard. Part of him did expect to see her with Alice on her cot , as she liked to be , but no. In fact she was upside down , hanging from her shadows. His eyebrows furrowed but he smiled either way.

He took little time to get over to her , it was easy to move fast when your legs are practically yard sticks.

Good afternoon , Tabatha.