"Self-loathing? Dear me," Cheshire says, what seems to be a note of actual worry in his voice. "Cats don't have that problem. Tell your host to be more feline in his ways." He licks a paw. "And while we're on the subject, I may as well say why I appeared when I did. Something distinctly royal has been spotted lurking in the Tulgey Wood."

Alice's jaw drops. What -- it couldn't be. . .except that she's been considering the Queen, wondering if she does dare bring her back. . .if the Queen was actually a victim instead of purely a monster. . . . "Where?" she says, swallowing.

In response, Cheshire pads off in the direction of the wood, obviously meaning for them to follow.