#( gonna make a full list of the costumes the squad is gonna wear actually )

[bohemian-war]

‘LOVE WILL TEAR US APART’ [CHAPTER 2]

(Credits to @bens-hardy  for the gif).

Ben Hardy!Six x Fem Reader (Six Underground)

Summary (Six Underground): The film tells the story of 6 billionaires who form a vigilante squad by faking their deaths to take down notorious criminals. Warnings: language, character development, flirting, alcohol…

Word Count: 2.5k+ (…sorry that it’s too short)

A/N: Hi guys! Sorry that this took so long. I have been extremely busy these past few weeks so I hope you really enjoy this part. I am also taking my time as I don’t want to reveal everything straightaway so even when this chapter feels like a filler one, don’t you worry because from chapter three I am gonna start explaining everything about the Six Underground organisation and it really takes off from there :D. Also, in case you were wondering, I always imagined Joe as John as that bass player in The Black Heart ;). When it comes to Brian, it’s always been Machine Gun Kelly’s look as Tommy Lee in The Dirt. He is gonna play a big role in this story. So stay tuned!

(Credits to @geidiprimezs for the gif). Finally, I am sorry for all the grammatical/structure errors. Again, English is not my main language so I apologise for that. I always try to write more dialogue as a) it is easier to read; b) even when I love description I suck at it so I am sorry if you always find the same word/expression in every sentence. I always tend to write as to how the story is developed in my head in the first place. So, I am sorry. I am trying to get better at it, I promise. I cannot even express myself properly in my mother tongue. It is something I’ve struggled with since I was a child and it keeps getting worse due to my anxiety so bear with me on that one! 

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PART 1

(I will do a master list and a playlist soon :D).

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Disclaimer:

– Fem Reader is a twenty-one-year-old med student studying at the Imperial College London.

– Ben (Six) is a twenty-eight-year-old billionaire.

The story takes place in 2019 but there are flashbacks to make the whole thing look more realistic.

Finally, the outfit that Ben is wearing to play the drums is the one on the gif (beanie included :P) and this is the reader’s:

Enjoy!

[Y/N POV]

Y/N AND ELLIE’S APARTMENT, LONDON. PRESENT DAY.

“What are you doing?”

“Looking for something…” you say focusing all your attention to your laptop’s screen.

“Is this about that playboy boyfriend of yours again?”

“Ellie, I already told you that he is not my boyfriend. He was just being nice...”

“Playboy boyfriend or Prince Charming. It does not matter. All of them are basically the same. They act nice and then they trap you in their spider web to get in your pants.”

You roll your eyes and ignore her comment.

“He is like a ghost! It is like he’d just vanished!”

She makes her way to the couch and sits next to you with a cup of tea in her hand.

“Maybe he is not on social media. I mean… Six? What kind of name is that?”

You sigh as Ellie sees you scrolling down on Facebook desperately.

“If you’d like, we could always try and track him down… Perhaps if you ask some people in the pub…”

“I am not going back,” you affirm bluntly.

“Then, I don’t know how I could help you, love.”

You sigh again and turn your gaze towards her.

“It is okay. I just wanted to thank him properly for what he did.”

“Are you sure this man even exists?”

“Ellie…”

“Okay, okay. Just sayin’”

You sigh again for the third time and look back at the screen. You slam it down close and stand up.

“You know what? I had enough. I might pop up to the National Gallery for the new music bands exhibition. Are you coming?”

“I’d love to but I am helping Eric with his new project.”

“New project?”

“I’ll keep you updated as I don’t even know what I am doing myself. Knowing Eric though it might involve RuPaul and drags and stuff…”

You laugh and shake your head.

After spending so much time debating about your outfit, you finish getting ready and take the first train from your place to Charing Cross. When you get off and go out into the street, the square is full of people. On the one hand, tourists who do not stop taking pictures with their selfie sticks and, on the other, locals who return home after a long and hard day at work. You make your way to the main entrance and grab a map from the foyer area. The exhibition is huge so you decide to visit the rock section first.

NATIONAL GALLERY, LONDON. PRESENT DAY.

You are simply surprised by the amount of memorabilia. The gallery shows the history of the biggest names in music: AC/DC, David Bowie, Iggy Pop, The Rolling Stones, Mötley Crüe, Led Zeppelin… The collection also includes handwritten song lyrics, costumes worn during performances, studio equipment, promotional material, and singles. One of the spaces is beautifully dedicated to Queen and your eyes end up admiring various musical instruments; from John Deacon's bass guitar and a replica of Brian May's synthesizer to Roger Taylor's drum set.

Suddenly, you look away and come across with a familiar face. Casual look and hands in his pockets. He is also looking at the drum set. He is so lost in it that he barely notices you. You smile and decide to approach him.

[Six POV]

“Hey… It’s you!”

You direct your gaze towards that voice and your heart skips a beat. You never thought you would see her again. You could barely see her features under the dim light of the pub left alone when you both talked in the street. Nevertheless, everything changes now and you seem… speechless?

Wake up, you stupid asshole! “I just saw you admiring Rog’s set and thought that it’d be nice to say “hi”, Six right?”

She holds out her hand for you to shake. You eventually do.

“That’s thoughtful of you… Y/N?”

Of course, I remember your name…

She nods.

“Do you like music?”

“Who doesn’t?” Y/N smiles.

What a stupid question…

“I mean, the rock of the 70s and 80s…”

“Are you kidding? It was the best music! It still is… I think everything started with The Beatles back in the 60s though…”

You look at her with interest. You are surprised by her taste in music and want to know more.

“What is your favourite band?”

I cannot believe I am asking her these childish questions…

“Joy Division, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Queen… That’s why I decided to come to the exhibition today. They have done a great job so far.”

“Are you a Queen fan?!”

“Of course! I might have the biggest crush on Roger Taylor…”

I…like…you…

“All the girls do. I mean, he is alright…” 

“Alright? Have you seen him in the 70s? He is literally gorgeous! Like a Renaissance painting.

You scoff and shake your hand at her obsession while running your tongue through your bottom lip.

“So… he’s alright…” Y/N repeats your words pointing at Roger’s set emphasising what you just said. “That’s why you were so lost in the kit!”

“No, I wasn’t!”

Liar…

“You look a little bit like him, to be honest…” Y/N smirks.

What…

She is approaching you now. She squints her eyes.

Too close…

“If only you had longer hair though…” her voice coming out like a whisper.

“What would you do?” 

“Hmmm?”

“If I had longer hair… What would you do?”

You see her parting her lips and hold your gaze. Your eyes like blazing fire. If looks could kill or do something else… “I wanted to thank you for what you did last night but… I couldn’t find you and…”

“Don’t even mention it. It was my pleasure.” you cut her off and quickly run your fingers through your hair.

“Right…”

You try to avoid looking at her directly in the eyes because of the effect she has on you; a kind of warm feeling going down your spine, You don’t really know what it means but it kinds of scare you.

"Oi Six!" Suddenly, you see a tall man approaching and giving you a small pat on the back. You cannot help but return it with a big smile.

"Hey, what's up man?!"

"Brian, mate, how are you doing? Long time no see!"

“Good, I have not seen you in a while!”

“I have been busy…” You frown and sigh.

“I went to The Black Heart and Bobby told me that you would be here. Playing tonight?”

“Yeah. Hopefully, I’ll be able to make it by nine.”

“Great!”

Brian turns around and sees Y/N standing in an awkward position.

“Who’s this? New friend?”

You start feeling the tension built in the pit of your stomach. You clench your jaw.

“Sorry! That was rude of me. I am Brian.”

“Not at all! is it Brian for Brian May?”

“Wow! I like her.”

You cannot help but glare at him.

Watch it, mate…

“Unfortunately, I am not May but if you say so, I’ll take it,” he winks at Y/N.

“My name is Y/N by the way,” she holds her hand out again.

“Are you a Queen fan?”

“I certainly am.”

“Then you should come to The Black Heart tonight. Our friend Six here is gonna play. He is obsessed with Roger Taylor. He is his muse!

“Really?”

Y/N’s face lights up but you cannot tell whether is of surprise or emotion. She squints her eyes.

“The Black Heart…”

“Do you know it?” Brian asks in surprise.

“We actually met there…” you cut him off.

“Oh great! Everything settled then.”

“Brian…” you warned him.

“Are you playing too?” Y/N shows some interest.

“I’ll be there with some friends but I am not playing tonight.”

You can see the doubt in her eyes and you intervene before it gets worse.

“I am sure she’s got plans anyways, Bri.”

“Actually, I’d like to come!”

Fuck…

You curse and roll your eyes at the stupid situation. That pain in the chest again.

“Great! See ya both there then.”

[Y/N POV]

You definitely don’t want to return to the pub but there was something dragging you back there. It was probably the fact that you were very curious about watching Six play live. For some reason, you could not picture him behind a drum set and you were still mad at him for lying to you. On the other hand, it’d be nice to see him fail. 

You made sure you were properly dressed this time. You did not want to get into any more trouble so you opt for a pair of fitted jeans, a nice top, high heels boots, and a black leather jacket.

Summer was about to start but it does not make any difference when you are leaving in London anyway. Ellie is not at home anymore so you finish cleaning, lock up, and make your way to the pub.

THE BLACK HEART, LONDON. PRESENT DAY.

[SIX POV]

“What time is your girlfriend coming?”

The boys are setting up and getting ready for the big night. The pub is already full of people chatting and having a nice time. 

“I already told you that she is not my girlfriend, Brian.”

“Well, she is hot…”

“She is a kid.”

“I mean, if you don’t like her…”

You drop one of the mics and turn around with an angry look in your face.

“Don’t even think about it!” you growl. Your friend laugh.

“That’s what I thought, mate…”

You scoff and shake your head.

“Just make sure that you never play “I am in love with my car” in front of her or she will run away.”

“Oh, shut up!”

THE BLACK HEART (20:45 pm)

(”Princess of China” by Coldplay is playing)

[Y/N POV]

You arrive at the pub and it is already packed. You sigh and enter into an anxious mode. You simply couldn’t help but think of what happened the night before. Somehow, you manage to brush those thoughts off and get to the counter. This time, Ellie is not here with you so you have your ID ready in case they ask for it.

“What would you like lovely?”

“Just a coke, please.”

The bartender leaves and comes back with a glass full of the beverage and ice a few seconds later.

“There you are, sweetheart…”

“Thank you!”

You reach for your purse when you see the man shaking his head.

“It’s on the house…”

“Really? Thanks!”

The man nods and continues serving. You grab your drink and take it to your lips while observing the place again. You spot the empty stage in the distance including the drum set.

Where are you?

Suddenly, you hear a screeching noise coming from one of the microphones. It’s Brian!

“Night everyone! Some of you might already know me,” he says adjusting the mic to his height. “I am Bri. I was not planning on playing tonight but there has been a change of plans.”

Some people star clapping as he lifts his guitar up. You smile and take another swig from your coke with enthusiasm.  “I’d like to introduce you to some people. This is John our bass player. And before someone makes the joke, no, we are not Queen.”

Many people start laughing.

“Finally, our special member, Six, on the drums…”

“Six, we love you!” You could see a couple of girls whispering and cheering about the drummer. You roll your eyes. So predictable…

“Sorry, ladies but Six will be just hitting on the drums tonight, I am afraid…”

You are thankful for Bri’s intervention and smile shyly to yourself shaking your head with amusement at the same time.

Six is sat behind the set of drums with a smug look on his face. He is finishing getting ready and checking on his equipment. He takes a swig of water and some drops stained his t-shirt. If he is nervous he knows very well how to hide it.

“We are gonna do some covers tonight,” Brian continues“… and we also have a surprise by the end of the night. So bear with us and we hope that you are all not to pissed to miss it.”

More laughs.

The list of covers is long but good; from “A Message” by Coldplay to “I Wanna Hold Your Hand” by The Beatles.

“And now… our final song…”

This catches your attention even more and all the pub goes quiet.

“…for a friend who’s currently in the room…” Brian puts on his visor and finally spots you.

“Y/N! there you are!”

Suddenly, a spotlight points directly in your direction and you have to cover your eyes due to the bright light. Everybody is staring at you and you start panicking. You freeze in your stool and feel a heat sensation in the pit of your stomach.

Oh no…

“Y/N loves Queen so we could not say goodbye without playing a song by the band itself. We will do the chorus and Six here will do the rest. “This is Crazy Little Thing Called Love”, everybody! Y/N we hope you like it…

When they finish, they are cheered by everyone and quickly get off the stage. You see Six approaching you and start playing with your straw while pretending to be drinking from your third coke of the night.

“Hey…”

“Hey…” you sigh.

“Did you enjoy the show?”

Six makes a sign to the bartender for what you assumed was a beer but he immediately directs his green eyes right back at you.

“Yeah, I mean, it was alright…” He raises an eyebrow and a smile begins to form at the corner of your lips. He shakes his head.

“Just alright?”

“Hmmm, I’d say meh.”

You wrinkle your nose in uncertainty and Six observes you with a funny look on his face.

“Let me buy you a drink.”

“I don’t drink…”

“Right…”

“But I will have one last coke. I will probably not sleep tonight with that much caffeine in my body though. I also feel that I should be paying for this,” you lift up your glass.

“It’s okay. I told Bobby that you are my host tonight. You can have anything you like. It is on me really…”

You frown and smile.

“Thanks…”

“Don’t even mention it.”

He grabs his pint and takes a big swig of it.

“I didn’t know you could play that well.”

“How could you know anyway?”

Rude.

“I truly enjoyed it, honestly.”

“I thought you said it was alright…”

“You were though…”

“Me?!”

You try to contain your laughter.

“Did you even see how I was banging those drums, love?”

Love…

“I know better…”

You could tell that he is offended.

Touché.

“What the f…”

“Roger Taylor is better than you!”

“Well, Roger fucking Taylor wished he could be me.”

Six scoffs and takes another large swig of his beer trying to hide behind his cruel words. You know he did not mean them. He adores Roger…

“Tommy Lee…”

“A total wanker!”

“Not true.”

“Well, he makes decent music. Not my style though.”

Six’s cockiness is back. A defence weapon. 

“He does the real spinning…”

“I can do that too.”

“Sure…”

“I could show you if you let me…” he grins at you.

He leans into you and his big green eyes start taking everything of you in. His warm breath fanning over your face. That feeling in the pit of your stomach, again.

What is wrong with you Y/N?

Tag List: @bjhardy  @pizzaplanets @mrbenhardys @bens-hardy @onceuponadetectivedemigod  @benhvrdys @closertothesunwhenimwithyou @rebelrebelyourefaceisamess @calumfornicationx @poteda @hergewi @tanya-is-dead @imthewintergirl @rogerina-taylorr @sara-1705  @jessevans

[swanqueeneverafter]

After The Sunset, Pt.16

Enchanted Forest. Before The Dark Curse. A Tavern. (The dwarves are drinking and enjoying themselves after a long day's work. Although sitting with them, Dreamy sits quietly thinking to himself when the Foreman of the Dwarf Mines joins him.) Foreman: "What's the matter? You've barely touched your food.” Dreamy: “I don't know. I can't eat. I can't sleep. I don't feel at all like myself. Maybe I should have Doc take a look at me.” Foreman: “You're gonna trust a dwarf that got his medical degree from a pickax? I wouldn't worry about it. Dwarves don't get sick. It must be in your head.” Belle: (From another table:) “It's not in his head, it's in his heart. (The dwarves turn to look at her:) You're in love.” Foreman: “Oh, that's impossible. Dwarves can't fall in love.” Belle: “Trust me. I know love, and - You're in it.” (The Foreman dismisses this and gets up to join the other dwarves while Dreamy joins Belle at her table.) Dreamy: “What's it like?” Belle: “It's the most wonderful and amazing thing in the world. Love is hope. It fuels our dreams. And if you're in it, you need to enjoy it. Because love doesn't always last forever.” Dreamy: “But if love's so great, then why do I feel so bad right now?” Belle: “You need to be with the person you love.” Dreamy: “Yeah, but how do I know she feels the same way? All she talked about was going to see some fireflies, not loving me.” Belle: “What- what did she tell you about these fireflies?” Dreamy: “Uh, that she was gonna go see them on the hilltop tonight, that she heard they were the most beautiful sight in all the land. (Belle giggles:) What?” Belle: “She wasn't telling you about the fireflies. She was inviting you to go be with her.” Dreamy: “You think so?” Belle: “I've had my heart broken enough to know when somebody's reaching out. Now go, find your love. Find your hope. Find your dreams.” Storybrooke. Outside Granny's Diner. After The Black Fairy's Curse. (Rumplestiltskin takes a picture of his family with his new camera.) Belle: “Rumple! I said no pictures. I'm not even ready for the party yet. I'm a mess.” Rumplestiltskin: “You look beautiful.” (Takes a seat beside his son.) Belle: (Sighs:) “You are gonna make me regret giving you that camera. Okay. (Checking her list:) Uh, Zelena got balloons. Emma and Regina cake. Oh, Snow and David are bringing bubble wands. (At Rumple’s look:) I don't know, I guess Baby Neal is obsessed with them.” Rumplestiltskin: “Belle?” Belle: “Yes.” Rumplestiltskin: “Relax. It's a children's birthday party. As long as everyone turns up and Gideon ends up with birthday cake all over his face, it's a success.” Belle: “Oh, I know. You're right. It's just after all these years, I guess I'm used to the chaos. (Gideon whines:) Maybe I should get, uh, un-used to it.” Rumplestiltskin: “Well, Storybrooke's certainly been quiet this past year. I can't even remember the last time I used magic. Hey, that reminds me. (Picking up a present from the table:) I got something for you. It's for all of us, a family thing.” Belle: (Opens the box to reveal a photo album. Flicking through the blank pages:) “Rumple, it's beautiful. I love it.” Rumplestiltskin: “It's for our travels. (Taking the album and putting it aside:) Belle, you have been so patient with me. Too patient. (Stands:) You've seen the man behind the beast when no one else could.” Belle: “Oh, Rumple. That beast is a distant memory now.” Rumplestiltskin: “So, let me do this for you. You deserve to finally get what you've always wanted. To see the world.” (They kiss.)

Storybrooke. Recent Past. New Years Eve. (With only a few hours left until the annual Storybrooke New Year’s Eve party, things are a little quiet at Roni’s. So much so that Alice and Robin are spending the afternoon looking for apartments rather than helping behind the bar.) Robin: (Scrolling through her phone:) “Oh, look. There's a one-bedroom right here in Storybrooke. Oh, it looks pretty good in the pictures. See?” Alice: “I don't need to see it. I love it. If it comes with a built-in Robin, that's all I need.” Robin: “Aw.” (After the merging of realms, the number of quests skyrocketed, so after a particularly heated town meeting, it was decided that the Dark Palace would be a much more suitable place for hosting the party than Granny’s. Probably for the first time ever, the palace was filled with fairies and dwarves who volunteered as a decorating squad.) Regina: (Glaring at Leroy:) “You just know that Grumpy signed all his brothers up in the hope of spending some time with Nova.” Zelena: (Glancing back to see Leroy and Nova leaving the bar together:) “Well, whatever the reason, the main ballroom is glistening, and the atmosphere is buzzing over there. The palace is so full of light, colourful decorations, countless flying candles and several beautiful crystal chandeliers...” Regina: (Arms folded:) “You’re enjoying this, aren’t you?” Zelena: (Smiles:) “Yes, I am rather. Oh come on, it can’t possibly be as bad as you think it is.” Regina: (Scoffs:) “What I think, is that I could simply use my magic to decorate the ballroom and it would have been finished hours ago.” Henry: (Arriving from the store room:) “Yeah, but not everyone thinks black is a festive colour, Mom.” (Putting an arm around her son’s shoulders, Regina ruffles Henry’s hair while Zelena chuckles.) Regina: “Very funny, young man. Shouldn’t you be at the farm watching over your uncle?” Henry: (Checking his watch:) “Ah, you’re right! And I’m supposed to meet Violet there ten minutes from now.” (Watching the teenager scurry off to meet his girlfriend, Regina can’t help but smile as Henry rushes from the bar.) Regina: “He gets his time management skills from his mother.” Zelena: “Hm. Speaking of, where is my delightful sister-in-law?” Regina: “At the station. She wanted to make sure all her paperwork was finished before the new year starts.” Zelena: “Mmhmm sure she did…” Regina: “Alright, maybe I suggested it, so I could prepare my costume. (Smiling devilishly:) I’m aiming for ‘speechless amazement’ this year. What are you wearing, anyway?” Zelena: (With a smirk of her own, whispers:) “Ah. That would be telling. (Downs her drink, then stands:) But don’t worry, all shall be revealed. (Winks:) Almost literally. (To Alice and Robin:) Come on, you two.” (The trio prepare to depart, leaving Regina with a slightly concerned expression upon her face.) The Charmings’ House. (Decidedly not doing her paperwork, Emma Swan-Mills finds herself going through her mother’s closet.) Emma: (To herself:) “Ugh, there has to be something in here I can use.” David: (Entering the room:) “Anything I can help you with?” Emma: “Oh, hey, Dad. (Sighs:) I’m looking for ideas for a costume for tonight.” David: “You don’t have a costume yet?” Emma: “I haven’t had time! Not since my deputy left me with piles of paperwork to complete.” David: (Chuckles:) “I finished all of my paperwork before I resigned and you know it. How much more could there possibly be?” Emma: (Sighs, avoiding the question:) “This is hopeless. What are you two going as tonight?” David: “Snow White and Prince Charming, who else?” Emma: “Right, how silly of me.” David: “Boy, I’ll tell ya, I’m sure glad Henry and Violet will take care of your brother tonight, it’s been a while since Snow and I went to a party as just the two of us, and-“ Emma: “Yeah, let me stop you there, Don Juan, before you say anything that’ll make us both uncomfortable. Besides, I’m sure the kid wants some time alone with Violet without his mom spying on him. (They both laugh at this, imagining Regina watching the young couple like a hawk:) Well, I better get going.” David: “What about your costume?” Emma: “Oh, I’ll think of something. I do have one idea but... well, we’ll see.” David: (Smiles:) “I’m sure it’ll be great.” Emma: “Yeah. See you in a couple of hours.” (With that, Emma hugs her father and leaves the room just as the sound of screeching tyres can be heard outside.)

Granny's Diner. Present. (Ruby is clearing plates when Billy, the mechanic, surprises her.) Billy: “A mouse.” Ruby: (Startled:) “What? Where?” Billy: “No. I meant me. (Approaching:) I was a mouse. My name was Gus. I lived in Cinderella's pantry, I ate cheese, I gnawed on wood, but I preferred the cheese.” Ruby: “And, why are you telling me this?” Billy: “Uh, we haven't had a chance to talk since you left for the Enchanted Forest. I swore to myself that if I ever saw you again, I’d ask you out. And I guess I just wanted you to know who I was… back home.” Ruby: “Uh, can I, um, still call you Billy?” Billy: “You can call me whatever you want, as long as you let me buy you a drink after your shift.” Ruby: (Eyes the clock:) “Um, tonight's actually not great. Because...” Snow White: (Coming to her rescue:) “Uh, we... we have plans.” Ruby: “That's right, um... It's girls night.” Snow White: “Because we haven’t seen each other in so long.” Ruby: “Right, and I'm bringing the cheese. (Gasps:) Which has nothing to do with you being a mouse. It has to do with the... wine.” Billy: “Okay. Um... Maybe next time.” (He leaves.) Ruby: (They hug:) “Thank you.” Snow White: “I can spot a girl in trouble. You know you could have told him about you and Mulan. Billy must be the only one who doesn’t know.” Ruby: “Yeah, can’t say I’ve really missed all the gossip that goes on around here.” Snow White: “Oh, you don’t know the half of it. Ooh, that reminds me, did you know that Mrs...” (Snow continues talking as we see David giving Ruby a sympathetic smile. Suddenly, King George, also known as Storybrooke’s disgraced former district attorney Albert Spencer, joins him in the booth.) David: “What are you doing here?” Spencer: “You may have taken care of me in the old world, and kept me locked away in this one for years, but, with a new sheriff in town, we get another go at each other.” David: “Lily let you go?” Spencer: “I’ve served my time.” David: “You tortured Regina and almost blew up the entire town. You should be locked away for the rest of your life.” Spencer: (Laughs:) “So righteous, so sure of yourself. But I know the truth. You're still just a shepherd pretending to be a prince. You weren't fit to run the kingdom, and now even your daughter knows you sure as hell aren't fit to run this town.“ David: “The people of this town know who I really am. And they've seen me defeat you before. So, now that you’re free, if you want to try and take me down, they'll see it again.” Spencer: (Chuckles:) “By the time I'm done here, you'll wish you'd killed me when you had the chance.”

Kitchens. (Granny and Ruby are working on the walk-in refrigerator in the back room while Snow watches.) Granny: (Lifting her welders mask:) “Almost done. Let's finish clearing out those perishables.” Snow White: “I’m sorry, what’s going on here?” Ruby: “We're making a cage. Know anybody who might want thirty-eight frozen lasagnas?” Snow White: “What?” Granny: “I know. Nobody would believe it if you told them my lasagnas was frozen.” Snow White: “No. Why are you building a cage?” Ruby: “Tonight's the full moon. It's the first night of Wolfstime.” Snow White: “Ruby, you learned how to control the wolf in you ages ago.” Ruby: “Yeah. But, (Sighs:) since Mulan’s been gone, I haven’t been sleeping real well.” Snow White: “Oh, Ruby, Mulan knows how to handle herself.” Ruby: “I know that, but she doesn’t even know for sure what’s out there. All she’s going by is rumours. I worry, okay? And if I’m not sleeping, my mind isn’t focused...” Snow White: “Hm. Okay I can see that. But what about your red hood? That could keep you from turning.” Ruby: “If I had it. I've looked everywhere. I know I brought it back to Storybrooke because I was wearing it.” Snow White: “Ruby, I know you. I trust you. Wolfstime or not, you won't hurt anyone tonight.” Ruby: “Maybe. But I can't afford to take any chances.” Storybrooke Sheriff's Department. (David confronts Lily about Spencer's release.) David: "Do you have any idea what you've done? Spencer is a maniac." Lily: "Oh, I see. So all that talk about how everyone deserves a second chance, really only applies to people within your family? Or perhaps just to those you approve of?" David: "This is not about me, it's about the safety of the people of this town." Lily: (Scoffs:) "One old man who doesn't even have magic doesn't sound like much of a threat to me." David: "Do you even know what he did? Spencer conspired to have my grandson kidnapped and taken to Neverland." Lily: "So it is personal with you two after all." David: "Look-" Lily: (Interrupting:) "By the way, kidnapping a child and sending it to another world is exactly what you and your wife did to me. If you two are allowed to walk around free, then so is Spencer. (David has no reply to this:) Look, I have no idea why Emma left me in charge, but the fact is she did and I'm grateful for this opportunity. Like it or not, I am the sheriff around here and what I decide is final." David: (Putting his hands up placatingly:) "I'm not trying to challenge your authority. All I'm asking is that you take me on as your deputy, just as another pair of eyes. I know these people, I've lived with them for years. What I know could be useful to you day to day." Lily: (Considers:) "Do you know how to fix the copier?" David: (Nods:) "I think I could figure it out." Lily: "Good, you can start there. (As David starts to say something:) But, we're gonna take this arrangement day by day. If you do something I don't like, you're gone." David: "I can live with that." Lily: "We'll see." Enchanted Forest. Past. (Belle sits in a tavern, listening to a speech being given across the room.) Alistair: (Addressing a group of people:) “There's a fearsome beast ravaging a faraway kingdom. Its eyes burn with fire. They call it the Yaoguai. No man has been able to kill it, but we will! There's room on our wagon. Who's going to join us?” Dreamy: (Approaches Belle's table:) “Looking for an adventure?” Belle: “Dreamy, right?” Dreamy: “Yes. I came to thank you. That advice you gave me last night... (Sits at her table:) it worked. Nova and I are running away together.” Belle: (Smiles, squeezing his hand:) “That's wonderful.” (They both look towards Alistair and his group.) Dreamy: “Why don't you sign up?” Belle: (Scoffs:) “Yeah, I've always dreamt of heroics, but I think it's safer I stick to my books. They're the only adventures I know that have happy endings.” Dreamy: “Well, maybe this one will have one, too.” Belle: “Yeah, I doubt it. Last time I faced a beast, it didn't end well.” Dreamy: “What are you talking about?” Alistair: “Men! Follow me! Yaoguai awaits.” Dreamy: “Get on that wagon. Go! Take a chance.” Belle: (Thinks:) “Thank you.” (She starts to leave.) Dreamy: “Wait! Belle! Wait. (Hands her a pouch of dust:) It's fairy dust. It might come in handy.” Belle: “Uh, no, thank you... I've seen what magic does to people.” Dreamy: “You've seen what dark magic does. Fairies use this for good. Now go be a hero.” (Belle smiles and runs off.)

Enchanted Forest. Recent Past. New Years Eve. The Dark Palace. (The enormous ballroom is slowly filling up with people arriving from across the realms. Arriving late but trying to appear casual about it, Emma searches the room for her wife. They haven’t seen each other all day because they agreed to meet at the palace and surprise each other with their costumes. Not finding the Mayor anywhere, the Sheriff makes a beeline to the bar, which, in fact, is more a table covered with liquor and various other beverages. Scanning the table, Emma smiles in delight upon finding her favourite brand of root beer. Opening one and drinking from the bottle, she turns to greet whoever just stood next to her, only to nearly spit the beer all over her sister-in-law.) Emma: (Wiping the beverage from her chin:) “Jesus, Zelena! This is a costume party, not a nudist convention.” Zelena: (Mock offended:) “Excuse me? I HAVE a costume!” Emma: “So who the hell are you supposed to be?” Zelena: (Rolling her eyes:) “The little mermaid, of course! Why do think I’m wearing these bloody sea shells or these seaweed knickers? (Zelena points at the three pieces of clothing truly not doing much to cover her body, then adds more calmly:) Besides, Robin has Alice, Regina has you, it’s time Mummy had some fun, too.” Emma: (Groans:) “Oh god, too much information.” Zelena: (Winks:) “At least it rhymed. Plus, I enchanted a few dozen sprigs of mistletoe to appear whenever two people are standing close enough to each other. (Emma takes a step away from her sister-in-law and checks the space above her head for any trace of the enchanted plant:) Oh get over yourself. Who are you dressed like, anyway?” Emma: “Hermione from Harry Potter.” Zelena: “Bollocks, she has brown hair. Although, it’s a pretty simple charm if you want me to…” Emma: “Some prefer it blonde, you know. Your sister for example.” Zelena: “Ugh, lovebirds. Well, my goal for tonight is much simpler than finding true love.” Emma: “Yeah, and what’s that?” Zelena: (In a tone suggesting it should have been obvious:) “Why, finding a decent shag of course.” Emma: (Winces:) “Well, good luck with that.” Zelena: (Scoffs:) “Who needs luck when you have- Ooh, I guess my little sis knows this as well…” Emma: “What do you mean? (Once Emma turns around however, all becomes clear. Across the room, standing with one hand on her hip and a confident smile adorning her face, is Regina:) Wow.” (Regina makes her approach, not unlike a lioness stalking her prey.) Zelena: “Have fun, kittens.” (Zelena makes herself scarce as the Mayor and the Sheriff are reunited.) Regina: “So, like what you see, Miss Granger?” (Regina asks seductively, looking Emma up and down.) Emma: “Uh…” Regina: (Chuckles:) “Eloquent as always, I see.” Emma: “Gina, you look…wow, you know what the Evil Queen’s attire does to me... but holy hell, woman…” Regina: (Laughs and circles Emma with an appreciative hum, purring into the Sheriff’s ear:) “You look utterly edible yourself, dear.” (The sound of a glass shattering distracts them from their flirtation momentarily as they look over to see Snow White standing with her hand still mid-air and paler than usual.) Snow White: (Noticing that several other people are staring at her:) “Everything’s alright here!” (Everyone resumes their previous activities. Finally snapped out of her haze, Emma turns to face Regina who immediately snakes her arms around her wife’s neck, letting herself be pulled even closer by her hips. Foreheads resting against each other, the couple start to sway to the rhythm of the music.) Emma: “You’re positively ravishing, babe.” Regina: “Mm. Promises, promises. (Suddenly, something above them catches her attention:) Really? Mistletoe?” (Emma also looks up to find a sprig of Zelena’s enchanted mistletoe hanging in the air.) Emma: “Um, yeah, that’s your sister’s doing, she’s determi- wait, that’s it - mistletoe. A kiss under the mistletoe!” Regina: “Yes, Emma, I know what-” Emma: (Placing a finger on blood red lips, recites slowly:) “Mistletoe can be deadly if you eat it…” (There’s a gleam in the sheriff’s eyes and the faintest shadow of a smile on her lips as she waits for Regina to get the hint. After a moment of deep concentration, the mayor replies with a victorious smirk.) Regina: “But a kiss can be even deadlier if you mean it.” (After that, it was hard to tell who dived in first, not that either of them care as they kiss each other with such passion.) Snow White: “Oh my god, will you two stop that? (When the kissing continues undeterred, her eyes widen with horror as they begin pulling at each others clothes:) You’re not in some porno movie!” (Unfortunately for Snow, her high-pitched cry resonates throughout the entire ballroom. Every single person is frozen to their spot to catch a glimpse of what seems to be a juicy scandal. Emma hides her face in her hands.) Regina: (With a growl through gritted teeth:) ”Excuse me, but this happens to be a very private conversation! Can you finally take your drink and go? (Emma grabs Regina’s hand and ushers her quickly to a quiet corner, as far from everyone, including a crimson red Snow White as possible. Regina laughs heartily the whole way and, once they’re alone teases:) For what it’s worth, I find that shade of pink on your mother’s face appealing.” Emma: (Smiles, shaking her head:) “You’re evil.” Regina: “You love it.” Emma: “I do.” Regina: “Then kiss me.” Emma: “With pleasure.” (Whatever reply Regina wanted to say is silenced by Emma’s lips and turned into a small appreciative moan, accompanied soon by one from the sheriff herself as the mayor tugs gently at her hair.)

Enchanted Forest. Present. (Having left Alice's tower, Regina and Emma make their way through the forest.) Regina: (Catching Emma looking at her outfit:) "What?" Emma: "A cape, really?" Regina: "Hey, I learned my lesson after what happened at DunBroch. I can't very well wear a pantsuit when walking through a forest. It was either this or one of the queen's outfits, and judging by the frosty looks I received from those peasants yesterday, this seemed the safer option." Emma: "Maybe it'd help if you stopped calling them peasants. (Looking her up and down again:) I like the look, I just think the cape is a bit much." Regina: "We're on the search for an adventure aren't we? If I've learned anything from reading Henry's comic books, it's that freedom of movement is essential if your suspecting a surprise attack." Emma: "Woah, okay well there's a lot to unpack in that sentence. First, if you're expecting to be attacked, it's not a surprise. Second, not all heroes wear capes. And third, who is going to be dumb enough to attack us?" (Just then, three men approach them from the trees.) Man 1: "There you are lads, just like I told you. The Evil Queen as I live and breathe." (Regina tenses but Emma calmly tries to warn the men.) Emma: "Hey guys, don't you know who we are? Emma Swan, the Savior? (Glancing back at her wife:) And, er, Regina: Warrior Princess?" Regina: (Scoffs:) "If anything, I'm a warrior queen." Man 1: "You'll be royally dead once we're done with you." Regina: "You've got to be kidding me." Emma: "Yeah, guys, seriously? This is not cool." Man 2: "No, what's not cool is the likes of her (Pointing his sword at Regina:) living it up in her castle while the rest of us starve." Man 1: "And the so-called heroes do nothing about it. You see, you may have found your redemption, Your Majesty, but the people are still hungry." Man 2: "Families were ripped apart under your rule and those actions deserve answers." Regina: (Smiles malevolently:) "Oh I guarantee you won't enjoy the answers I give you." (When Regina conjures a fireball in her hand, Emma steps between her and the bandits.) Emma: "Look! I get that your lives back then sucked, but that was years ago and Regina has changed." Man 1: "Time doesn't heal all wounds, Savior. Now step aside." Emma: "If you think I'm gonna let you lay one finger on my wife, you're far stupider than I gave you credit for." Man 1: "Your wife? (To his friends:) Well I guess what they say about blondes is true, boys. Only an idiot would marry that murderer. (To Regina over Emma's shoulder:) So come on, Your Majesty, show her what kind of person you really are and throw that fireball. 'Cause the way I see it, this ends one of two ways: Us killing you or you killing us." (Emma looks back to Regina who extinguishes the fireball.) Emma: (To the men:) "You know what? I think I've found a third way." (Emma turns and head butts the lead bandit, sending him down and out as Regina uses her magic to send the other two flying back against two trees.)

Emma: (Checking to make sure the men are unconscious, looks to Regina:) "I think my way was better. (Regina smiles then looks down at the men without saying a word. Softly, returning to her:) Hey, are you all right?" Regina: (Sighs:) "They aren't wrong about me, Emma. I did those terrible things in my past." Emma: "Yeah, and a lot of other people have done stuff they regret too. Look, I'm not trying to diminish or excuse what you did back then, but you have changed. You've saved far more people in these last few years than-" Regina: (Holding up her hand:) "Shh. (Uses her magic to heal the reddish bump that was beginning to form on Emma's forehead:) I hurt a lot of people in my past. And, although I may not allow the guilt of it to weigh me down, I still carry that with me, every day." Emma: "So you're okay?" Regina: (Smiles, reassuringly:) "I've learned to live with who I was for a while now. (Stroking Emma's face:) Thanks to you." (They lean in for a kiss, but are interrupted.) Rumplestiltskin: (From behind them:) "Don't forget about me, Dearie." (Rolling her eyes, Emma turns toward the sound of the voice.) Regina: (Stunned:) "Rumple?"

[sebeth]

All-Star Squadron #10 - 12

Warning, Spoilers Ahead…

 All-Star Squadron #10 – 12 by Roy Thomas, Adrian Gonzales, and Jerry Ordway

“If An Eye Offend Thee!”

The issue opens in San Francisco. It is early January 1942 and Hawkman has snuck away from the military base for a late evening flight.

The majority of the Justice Society retired their heroic identities to enlist in the various branches of the military.

Carter joined the Air Force and is set to make “pilot in record time” but “it’s liable to be months before I’ll see action in the army air force.”

Hakwman witnesses a fleet of B-17 Bombers arriving at the base from Randall Field, Texas.

Carter muses: “Those flyboys will do America a lot more good than one former playboy swooping around in a beaked masks and wings.”

“Speaking of former playboys, I just remembered Randall Field’s where Starman – Ted Knight – is based. I wonder if he might be – no, not likely. He couldn’t have his officer’s commission yet.”

Carter is wrong, as Ted is flying one of the planes. Ted’s co-pilot can’t get over how fast he made pilot status.

Ted suspects his co-pilot feels Ted’s money cut through the red tape but, in fact, as Starman, Ted has been “flying high for a year now.”

I’m not sure how flying under your own power allows easy mastery over flying a plane but I’ll go with it.

Starman admits missing using his gravity rod to fly under his own power.

A flying UFO appears out of nowhere, “glowing so blindly I can barely look at it.” The UFO attacks the planes.

A plane plummets to the ground. Hawman races after, knowing it’s futile, but hoping his Ninth Metal harness can stop the impending crash.

Fortunately for Carter, Ted makes excuses to head to the back of his plane. He promptly changes into his Starman costume, grabs his gravity rod, and exits the plane.

A relieved Hawkman has Ted save the plane while he prevents the UFO from attacking more planes.

An unconscious man falls out of the UFO. The UFO flies away to parts unknown.

Starman has to get back aboard the plane but Carter wants to know how Ted made pilot so fast.

Ted: “I got the President himself to fix it up for me.”

Ted admits he hates “using our ‘in’ with F.D.R.” but “winning this lousy war that’s important” and he would “mangle every rule in the book” if he had to.

Carter realizes he needs to return to base before he’s reported A.W.O.L. but first he needs to find help for the unconscious man. Unfortunately, the man dies in his arms before Carter can reach the ground.

Carter believes he knows the dead man and if it’s who he thinks it is “the secret behind that ‘Flying Eye’ may be even more sinister than I’d imagined.”

A caption box informs us we’ll have to wait an issue or two before discovering the full meaning of Carter’s words.

I enjoyed the quick check-in with Hawkman and Starman. The military enlistment was used throughout the All-Star Squadron run to explain why the members of the Justice Society weren’t featured heavily in the series.  It’s still nice to have the occasional appearance from a Society member.

We switch to Washington DC.

The Shining Knight, Hawkgirl, and Johnny Quick are careening past the Washington Monument.

I still don’t understand how Shiera hasn’t died of hypothermia while fighting crime in a bikini top during an East Coast winter.

I don’t have a problem with certain female super-heroes fighting crime in swimsuits, hot pants, or skirts. For example: She-Hulk, Supergirl, Power Girl, or Mary Marvel. All four women are mostly invulnerable and largely immune to temperature extremes. As long as it’s true to their personality, those women can wear what they want – they don’t have practical concerns to worry over.

However, women like Black Canary, Huntress, and Hawkgirl are neither invulnerable or immune to temperature extremes. Their costumes should reflect their need to protect their body from physical harm.

Side-note: Huntress’s abdomen-baring, hot-pants costume was one of the most idiotic outfits of all time. Both for the reasons listed above and because shorty before it’s debut, Helena was shot multiple times in the abdomen by the Joker. And the life-saving surgery was performed in Gotham during No Man’s Land. There was no plastic surgeon nearby to minimalize the scars. Yet no artist ever drew Helena with a scarred abdomen. Stupid!

Johnny compliments Shiera on the design of her new mask.  Shiera took the time to modify her mask but not to add sleeves to her top? Okay.

Johnny mentions he’d “better get some newsreel footage of all this, or Johnny Chambers is gonna be looking for a new job.”

Johnny is a cameraman for See’s All/Tells All News.

Sir Justin tethers Winged Victory and notices an unconscious man: “Here lies a man unconscious and he wears the regalia of an American soldier.”

Johhny has entered the Washington Monument in time to stop a sabotage attempt.

Johnny stops the actual explosion while Shiera and Justin deal with the saboteurs.

Sir Justin: “We thank you for letting us deal with these Nazis, Johnny Quick, for, in sooth, ‘twould be most unseemly to have let you fight the good fight unattended.”

Johnny: “Knight, you sure do talk pretty sometimes.”

The trio take the unconscious man (wounded guard) to the hospital.

Johnny mentions this is the second national monument he’s saved in a month and “I wonder how things are going out at Mount Rushmore?”

Hey, every hero needs a specialty. Superman fights alien invasions, Batman solves crimes, and Johnny Quick protects national monuments.

We switch locations to “one of the few American outposts in the distant Pacific Ocean which has not yet fallen to the Japanese juggernaut” where a “total blackout has been rigidly enforced for the past month.”

We have another check-in with a JSA member.

Dr. Charles McNider is on the island researching tropical fever. And he’s brought Hooty!

Charles serving in a research role for the military is a perfect fit. Charles wouldn’t be able to actively enlist in the military as he is blind.

Enemy planes and the “Flying Eye” attack the island. Charles changes into his “Dr. Mid-Nite” uniform to help the soldiers on the ground.

A solider is very confused: “Dr. Mid-Nite?! How the heck did you get over here?”

I understand Charles’ natural impulse is to change into costume at the first sign of danger but making an appearance on an isolated island is not a good way to maintain a secret identity.

The Flying Eye causes multiple plane engines to stall and crash. Fortunately, the pilots bail out.

The Flying Eye retreats and Charles heads back to his lab: “Better get back before my assistant Myra Mason notices Dr. McNider’s missing.”

Charles, trust me, Myra knows you run around as Dr. Mid-Nite. She may not say anything but she knows.

Did Charles use the “FDR card” in order to have Hooty and Myra accompany him? Myra is a nurse and Charle’s long-time assistant, used to working with the blind Charles, so she’s a logical choice to accompany him but Hooty?

I mean, I love Hooty, I’m just now sure how Charles convinced the military brass to allow his owl on the island.

We switch to the Russia’s Crimean Peninsula where the Flying Eye attacks both the Russian and the German forces and flies away.

Back to Washington. Robotman examines Steel. Robotman declares Steel free of any influence from Baron Blitzkrieg.

Firebrand accompanies the duo outside in time to witness the arrival of the Flying Eye.

The Flying Eye causes the hospital generatiors, along with Steel and Robotman, to shut down.

The Flying Eye heads to the White House. Firebrand along with a recovered Robotman and Steel race to the White House.

The trio arrive at the White House and meet up with Liberty Belle, Hawkgirl, the Shining Knight, Johnny Quick, and the Atom.

A shadowy, seven-foot man emerges from the Eye and battles the All-Star Squadron.

The man removes his helmet and proclaims: “I am Akhet, and I have come from the second planet of the star you call Proxima Centauri to annex this world, and all upon it, in the name and by the power of the Binary Brotherhood!”

Up Next: “The Spaceman’s Sinister Secret!”

Akhet issues an ultimatum: “All of Earth’s nations must surrender that a united planet planet may be ruled by myself, as emissary of the Brotherhood. Any nations which resist – be it one or all – will be obliterated by such power as my starcraft has already demonstrated. You have one earth-day to choose between abject surrender and total annihilation!”

The All-Stars want to attack but Liberty Belle correctly states that they should wait for the President’s signal.

Half the Squad attacks anyway, and when it goes badly, the rest rush in to help.

Sir Justin, as always, has the best battle cry: “Nor shall any man or maid set a foot further than does the Shining Knight! Forward to the fray, Winged Victory!”

The fight doesn’t go well and Ahket absconds with Steel, Hawkgirl, Atom, and Robotman.

Johnny laments: “What a time for the big guns in the Justice Society to have decided to enlist in the Army as privates!”

The Flying Eye attacks random locations across the globe.

The remaining All-Stars meet with the President, Prime Minister Churchill, and a military general.

Liberty Belle is suspicious of Akhet’s claims: I’m convinced there’s more to this than meets the eye.”

Hawkman arrives at the White House.

Hawkman informs the others of his and Starman’s encounter with the Flying Eye.

Carter tells the group the identity of the man who fell out of the ship: “Garret Owens, a pioneering bio-chemist. He’d gone out for a stroll near his Illinois home in 1933 – and hadn’t been seen since!”

Carter notes the emblem on Owens’ uniform is an old alchemist’s symbol for the Middle Ages, it is the sign for “the spirit of the world”.

Hawkgirl and Atom awaken in the Eye. Shiera’s a bit over-whelmed as she’s not a “full-time masked hero type. I’ve just put on this outfit to help the Hawk a time or two – and now this happens!”

Atom informs her “It’s a little late to fall back on your amateur standing.”

Atom and Hawkgirl explore the Eye.

Hawkman and the non-captured All-Stars race to the estate of Elwood P. Napier, a physio-mathmematician.

Elwood is another scientist who has gone missing in the last decade.

Johnny Quick has discovered the missing scientists were part of a government brain trust that ran out of funds in 1930.

Elwood was the last of the scientists to go missing. Before that one of the scientists went missing every six months.

Firebrand uses her powers to light up the interior of the house.

Sir Justin: “Odd’s blood, lass, but in my long-ago day, they’d have burned ye for a witch.”

Good thing Firebrand’s a modern woman. Also, good luck with the burning thing considering the nature of her powers.

Hawkgirl and Atom encounter Akhet and easily knock him out. The duo discover Akhet is a robot.

The duo discovers the rest of the captured All-Stars along with the missing scientists.  All individuals are placed in clear tubes.

Hawkgirl and Atom discover the true mastermind behind the plan: Dr. Hastor, Hawkman’s arch-enemy.

“Doomsday Begins At Dawn!”

Hawkman and his fellow All-Star leave Elwood’s estate.

Carter recognized Hastor in the photos found at the estate, “a man I saw die more than two years ago”.

Carter recaps his origin and debut as Hawkman. This is familiar ground for DC fans but I’ll offer a quick summary: Ancient Egypt – Prince Khufu and Shiera – murdered by Hath-Set, a priest of Anubis, all three re-incarnate to their present day lives.

Carter battles Dr. Anton Hastor in his first adventure. Hastor presumed dead after his fight with Carter.

Carter informs his fellow All-Stars that there is no alien invasion – only Hastor’s machinations.

Hastor explains to Shiera his plans and how he became involved with the missing scientists.

Hastor took control of the group of scientists and the Flying Eye, starting the events of the last few issues.

The All-Stars reach the Flying Eye via a hot-air balloon! No engine to knock out in the balloon.

Carter, Shiera, and Hastor battle by using their past lives’ astral forms.

The Hawks win, the Flying Eye is deactivated, and Hastor falls into a comatose state.

I love the All-Star Squadron but this is a pretty “meh” arc. Too many twists needlessly over-complicated – and stretched out - the plot.