#Diamond Zelena

[zelena777]

Attention, guys! I made my rules for unknown people who wants to enter on my profile and gave me a bad comments about my ship Radally, because I've been hunted by toxic anti Radally haters that i blocked them. So. Here my rules:

1. No tracing/reporting my original artworks on Deviantart, Pinterest, Tumblr, GameJolt or Bluesky.

2. No giving me a toxic hate comment about me and FNF "two souls one jar" Radi and Sally that i made my FNF AU.

3. No harrasing me with the liars about my artworks that i made in 2023 which i was CyborgCrustalZoel777, but it's my old name.

4. No forcing my friends to block me for no reason.

5. No killing my own characters Cyberlane Corporation.

6. No making drama videos about me.

And the last rule is:

No telling liars about Israel did to Palestine after Hamas and Iran attacked on her.

And please, don't let them to make me cry break up with Deviantart or something bad happens! If you see another hater with swearing, enter to the unknown person and block it. I really want to be a good person for you all, and i hope everything will change back to normal!

[ouatsqincorrect]

fic/headcanon prompt: the fam's realisation moments that emma and regina were in love

ok i tried for so long to write this into a fic for you, anon but haven’t been able to work it into the right words so i’m gonna do it as a headcanon now (i hope that’s okay with you). maybe someday i’ll find a way to make it work

anyway, these are my thoughts

rumple is the first one to figure it out. emma comes to him, angry about the dreamcatcher that told her regina killed archie and suddenly, it just clicks. and for a man who could see so much of the future, this really sort of takes him by surprise

but it makes some perfect sense in a way and now, he understands why regina was able to save emma from that portal and why no matter how many people try to sway her, emma can’t seem to find it in her to believe that regina is just a bad person

because he’s known regina her entire life (i know they met after daniel died, but—) and no one has ever fought for her like emma does

it’s when they stop the trigger though that he realizes it isn’t one sided. he knows magic better than anyone, and the fact that emma and regina found a way to stop that little diamond tells him all he needs to know about how they really feel

snow is the next one to figure it out. they’re standing at the town line, pan’s curse is about to hit, and it’s hard to look at the way emma’s crying and regina’s giving up her happiness and not see that they’ve fallen hard

her suspicions are only confirmed when she watches how regina struggles the following year, not only because of the pain of losing henry, but from the pain of losing emma too

and that’s how david gets it. he catches regina in a bad place one night at the castle and the way she’s upset for more than just henry is enough to clue him in

he doesn’t know for sure that emma’s in love with regina too until she brings marian back and david spends the next few days trying to get emma to calm down because the fact that she took away regina’s chance at happiness (and the fact that regina won’t talk to her) is killing her

when he didn’t have his memories, henry was convinced emma and regina had been in a relationship once before he was born. and when he gets his memories back, it’s hard to unsee that because now a lot of their behavior towards each other makes sense

and this is the kid who took exactly five seconds to believe that he was living in a town full of fairytale characters. it’s easy to believe that his moms would fall in love, and like the rest of the family, he can’t help but agree that it kind of makes perfect sense

belle realizes in camelot when she finds out emma gave regina the dagger. she’s had experience in this. the dark one giving someone the dagger is like them giving them their heart so she knows emma has feelings for regina

and the way regina clutches the dagger like her life depends on it tells her regina feels the same way about emma

zelena is, surprisingly, the last one to figure it out. it’s the day after emma told regina hook proposed and regina is so upset and zelena is pissed because it’s been years now and how had she not seen something so obvious?

for about 20 seconds, she tries to convince regina to crash the wedding, but regina shuts that idea down pretty quickly

[naporiahqs]

most wanted characters from members? :)

Hi hi, what I've collected so far from our members is that we'd like to see Finn the Human, Jake the Dog and Princess Bubblegum from Adventure Time, as well anyone from A Series of Unfortunate Events, Maude Ivory Baird, Sejanus Plinth, Tigris Snow, Billy Taupe and Mayfair Lipp from The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, Simon Basset, Eloise Bridgerton, Francesca Bridgerton, Benedict Bridgerton, Colin Bridgerton, Hyacinth Bridgerton, Penelope Featherington, Edwina Sharma and Mary Sharma from Bridgerton, Jennifer "J.J." Jareau, Spencer Reid, Derek Morgan, Penelope Garcia and really anyone from Criminal Minds, Casey Brinke, Cliff Steele, Niles Caulder and any other team members from DC's Doom Patrol, Anna of Arendelle, Olaf, Kristoff and Honeymaren from Disney's Frozen/Frozen II, Theon Greyjoy, Margaery Tyrell, Tyrion Lannister, Laena Velaryon, Lucerys Verayron, Jeyne Arryn and any of the Starks from Game of Thrones/House of the Dragon, Sofia Robbins Sloan Torres, Derek Shepherd, Meredith Grey, Callie Torres, Naomi Bennett, Charlotte King, Sheldon Wallace, Jake Reilly, Henry Montgomery, Andy Herrera, Jack Gibson, Victoria Hughes and any other firefighter from Grey’s Anatomy/Private Practice/Station 19, Sara Lance, Gideon, Ray Palmer and any of the Legends from DC's Legends of Tomorrow, Princess Aurora and Diaval from Disney's Maleficent, Clint Barton, Steve Rogers, Tony Stark, really any of the Avengers and May Parker from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Arthur Pendragon and Merlin from BBC's Merlin, Henry Mills, Regina Mills, Mary Margaret Blanchard, David Nolan, Rumpelstiltskin, Belle French and Zelena from Once Upon a Time, Maura Isles, Vince Korsak, Barry Frost, Frankie Rizzoli and Angela Rizzoli from Rizzoli & Isles, Hondo, Jim Street, Deacon, Erica Rogers and any of the team members from S.W.A.T., Yellow Diamond, Steven Universe and any of the Crystal Gems from Steven Universe and more Naporia Locals please!

[alexthecatgirl]

So CyanZelena hides those stuff from Pinterest and she think she can hide from us from what she did and I found it all, so I and my friends have to save those characters from those evil mean Zelena and her friends for tormenting and making hate art from it and I FANILLY GOT THOSE THINGS!!!!

[nowiswhatmatters]

Svakome treba dobar Feng Shui.

Nekoliko običnih principa Feng Shui-a:

Ukloniti nepotrebne predmete - radi Stvaranja Protoka, Otvaranje Prostora

Kaotičan dom kreira kaotičan život. Kaotičan um.

Počisti ormar i ormarić. Otpusti stvari koje vise ne trebaš.

2. Svaki put kad sjedite negdje, u uredu, na sastanku, dok večerate, pobrinite se da uvijek vidite ulazna vrata. Kreativnost, poštovanje. Kraljica vrata prostora. "You got the power."

U perifernom vidu - Vrata, želim biti sigurna da sam u području Moći

Vrata - usta Chi-a, kreiranja osjećaja dobrodošlice, kreiranje Svemira sa sobom. Želimo Svemiru dati do znanja energije dobrodošlice. Narančasta, bež, zelena. Boje napretka - obilja

3. Predmeti zlatne boje - Always

Zlatna boja

- boja obilja, osjećaj širenja, osjećaj prelaska na sljedeću razinu (u uredu)

4. Spavaća soba - kakve slike ? Što visi iznad uzglavlja? Ne: voda (emocionalna ravnoteža) i samci

5. Ogledala - reflekcija kreveta

6. Biljke - kreiraju Yang i aktivnu energiju - dnevni, blagavaonica, radni prostor, kuhinja

Biljke s iglicama - otrovna energija

Jugoistok/istok životnog prostora - tamo najaktivnije vibracije i najviše će nas podržavati, cvijeće

Vaše okruženje priča priču. Podsvjesno stalno u interakciji.

3 Oskara. Ona je rekla Svemiru da je ona spremna za njih. Ljude/klijente s više Oskara.

Vaš Dom ima svoj Vlastiti Um.

Vaš Dom i dalje šalje signale Svemiru, štogod vam se događa.

Prednost Feng Shui-a - nije potrebna disciplina, jedino nastaviti čistiti stvari koje nam više ne služe.

30 dubina, 210 visina, 180 širina - idealne dimenzije za novu komodu koja će zamijeniti stare ormare u spavaćoj sobi s ogledalima

Marie Diamond

Marie Diamond jedna je od najtraženijih Feng Shui majstorica na Zapadu. Ona koristi svoju intuiciju i duboko poznavanje energetskih sustava, zakona privlačnosti i radiestezije te ih kombinira sa znanjem kvantne fizike, Feng Shuija i meditacije kako bi usmjerila pozitivnu energiju u domove pojedinaca, obitelji, pa čak i velikih korporacija.

Marie je međunarodna autorica bestselera, govornica i savjetnica – ne samo za Feng Shui, već i za iscjeljivanje karme, manifestaciju i druge grane drevne mudrosti. Također je značajno i njeno pojavljivanje u hit filmu Tajna, koji je postao najprodavaniji DVD u povijesti.

[rewriteyourhistoryx]

Zelena smiled, surprised at just how...easy it had been to convince someone else that she was trying her best to gain her happy ending.

"Thank you...Neal," she said, hesitating for a bit, the words leaving a weird taste in her mouth. This was still a work in progress. "I've spent so much time on the Isle thinking about all the ways in which I could've spared my children a life spent in prison...often feeling as if my sister isn't willing to believe me even after five years in the Community. I never imagined I'd find someone willing to listen to me in the heart of the Charming clan."

With that, she stopped for a second to look at the clock in the back of the diner. She'd just remembered she wanted to visit her kids after the meeting, while she was still out.

She hadn't expected to see Princess Hope Swan-Jones and Princess Apple Eva Charming there, though. But there they were, hiding under hoodies as if that concealed their Charming blonde locks.

Amateurs.

"How interesting. I didn't know your sister and niece were here," the witch purred, voice as sweet as velvet. "It's almost as if...you brought them here so they could spy on me," she finished, tone turning sour.

She rose up from her chair, cold eyes locked on the prince. She was having a hard time playing nice now; why would she? He'd just proved to her that all of his promises hadn't meant anything after all. If they had, he would've actually trusted her.

She really, really should have known better by now.

"You said you trusted me. That you see the good in me. But you don't even trust me enough to have a conversation with me while I'm without my magic. What was this, a test? Did my sister put you up to this?!"

Then she turned her attention back to the girls and raised her voice:

"Playtime's over. Next time around, at least try and put on a glamour, darlings. I may be wicked but I'm not an idiot."

Zelena, Wicked Witch of the West, was a powerful sorceress who once cast the first time travel spell and who also happened to be the true love of the God of the Dead. But right now, she just felt vulnerable and apologetic, as she was about to meet the prince she'd once kidnapped when he was a baby.

But alas, if she wanted to be fully reunited with her children and hopefully get her magic back as well, making ammends was a good first step. And now that she was allowed to get out of the Community of the Lost (albeit with more than a few conditions), she could start doing that.

As the diner bell chimed, signaling Neal's arrival, the witch stood up to greet him, smoothing out the wrinkles in her emerald green skirt.

@ofhopeandbelief

[lotties-ashwagandha]

hi, can i request a fuc with zelena and its just her comforting reader because the reader doesn't feel good enough for her? i hope this makes 😅

- ☆ anon

I’D KILL FOR YOU, I AM FOR YOU

pairing: zelena x reader

word count:

notes and warnings: lyrics from romeo & juliet by peter mcpoland . thank u for requesting this was so fun to write <3 i’ve never written for zelena tho and it’s been super long since i watched ouat lollll

taglist (let me know if u want to be added or taken off!): @cartoonpeoples @thedeconstructionist @cordeliass @paulsonsratched @goodeday2u @traumatisedfangirl @mayfair-fleur

There is no greater pain than this silence that overcomes me.

There is no greater burden than the weight that cannot be seen, cannot be felt by anyone but myself.

Day by day, it consumes me.

Day by day, you are blind to it.

–

You unlocked the front door, entering the house as quietly as you could. You needed to take in your surroundings before she knew you were home, though you had occupied the house for so long you had no doubt that you could seamlessly move through the house blindfolded.

You could hear the crackling of the fire in the living room, the hum of jazz playing on the radio in the kitchen. All around you resided the feeling of home, of a fulfilled longing you had carried your entire life.

You could feel, as well, her presence — you could feel her joy, the rapture that occurred every time she smiled.

Zelena was humming along to the jazz in the kitchen.

For a moment, you simply listened, basking in the mere suggestion of being near her. Her voice rang like the bells of heaven, perfection rising in every note.

It almost brought tears to your eyes, the simplicity of the moment in front of you. Turmoil had been writing and wrestling in your mind, never ceasing to call your name, and the prospect of walking into the kitchen to see Zelena cooking the two of you dinner promised to dissipate every worry.

Yet as you came forward, making your way quietly into the kitchen, your anxieties lingered still. They were a shadow cast over you, unrelenting and loud, so loud.

You could no longer hear the jazz, for your fears were your only focus.

You hardly heard Zelena greet you, hardly felt the kiss she had placed upon your cheek.

She began to ramble about her day, how the store hadn’t had her favorite coffee brand so she had to buy a box that was a dollar more expensive, now the woman at the cash register had complimented her emerald sweater.

Everything she said enthralled you — though it was all so uninteresting in itself, when graced with the effects of her voice the words came so alive.

You didn’t deserve her — you kept telling yourself that you didn’t deserve her. It had been going on for weeks.

She was perfect in every way. Her eyes gleamed like diamonds in the dim light of the kitchen. Her movements were practiced and graceful. Everything she did and said was a reckoning.

The two of you sat down to dinner. You could hardly eat, your stomach overcome by the clawing of your anxiety. It took everything you had to smile and nod as she continued with her stories, and when she asked you if your day, your replies were short and robotic. Dinner was eaten almost entirely in silence on your part.

There was no greater pain than your silence.

The two of you abandoned the dishes, for now — both of you had endured a long day, and all you wished to do was sit down with each other to watch a movie, simply relax in one another’s presence.

The pit in your stomach deepened. A restless pain buried there that you could not name, could not describe, and it consumed everything.

There was no greater pain than your silence, and she knew nothing of it.

“Darling, what do you want to watch?” Zelena asked airily, moving a pillow to sit on the couch. You immediately moved towards her, resting your head on her shoulder.

“I don’t know. Whatever you want.”

It only took her a moment to decide, and you could feel her smile as she spoke. “The Addams Family?”

You couldn’t help but smile, her radiance overcoming you. “Of course.”

Her excitement was tangible as she started the movie, and you could hear her quietly reciting the lines of every character. Gomez as he stood admiring Morticia as she slept, Wednesday tormenting her brother.

It was only when she shifted in her seat and disrupted your position that you realized you had started to cry.

Zelena didn’t seem to notice — you were completely silent, and your tears were few. She assumed you were asleep.

But when you sniffled… that’s when she knew.

She paused the movie immediately, turning to you, gently running her hand through your hair. “Oh, darling, what is it?”

You shook your head, unable to speak for a moment, for you had absolutely no idea what to say. You wished to disappear, to never tell her a single thing, and yet there was a part of you that only wished to reveal to her every one of your doubts. “I just think you deserve better than me,” you said, so quietly she could hardly hear you. As you spoke, the words ripped you open like daggers.

She was astonished, and her expression revealed so. “Never, my love… where is this coming from?”

“I don’t know,” you said, and it was the truth. “My thoughts have been so loud lately.”

She nodded, pulling you closer, and the comfort of her embrace enveloped you. “I only want you — we deserve each other, we were meant for each other. There’s nothing I wouldn’t give for you, you’re the only person I need.”

You didn’t respond — she kept going.

“The best parts of my day are those I get to spend with you. Even when you steal all of the blankets and I’m left in the cold,” she teased, “still every moment I spend with you is perfect. You’ll never lose me.”

“Are you sure?”

She laughed quietly, and her smile lit up the room. “Of course. I love you.”

“I love you, too,” you murmured, leaning into her embrace. “Even though we watch The Addams Family every night.”

“I’m not sure what you’re talking about,” she said with a smirk, and the movie began to play once more. “Cara mia.”

“Don’t expect me to reply with ‘ma chère,’ that’s terribly cheesy… ma chère.”

And though your fears had immediately silenced, the transition was not jarring — for you were exactly where you were supposed to be.

The burden of your silence had ceased, and there was no greater peace than that which came from love.

[zelena777]

I don't want to be like her...

Hello again, i really had bad day today after i used the bath. I cried because of this artist who made me cry. It's xTenPiYeX/Zer0finix. She made more nsfw stuff about Shadow and her oc Elina the blonde hedgehog.Oh wait, i have any facts about me and more.

So... About me:

I'm russian woman were i was born in Russia. First i started draw my favourite ship Mettangela and Spangela (which means Mettaton x Angela or Spamton x Angela). But sometimes, some stupid artist made me cry and scream when Mettaton was a feminine gay with Papyrus. They shipping Papyton every years and using female gender on Mettaton because they wanted more sin and more dirty love for him. It's disgusting for changing Mettaton's normal gender. He was supposed to be a male robot, not a ugly bratty woman with big breasts in a blue dress. I love Mettaton and Spamton, they're so beautiful robots that they exist in this game. Unfortunately, they're enemies because they look similar with his sussy mood. Exept for another simps who shipped Mettaton with Rouxls Kaard and Spamton g Spamton. Those NSFW artists are disgusting as hell. I prefer first to draw The Mettangela files and The dialtone catalogue big shot incident when i free on any days. I really didn't meant to be mad at them but Papyton, Mettapants, Mettasans, Mettacest, MettaKaard and MettaSpamton or Spamatton disgusted and made me cry with my heartbroken. I only wanted to ship him with my own character Angela. Angela is a purple Cybraen Stickfigure, and she was cried every time when she was scared and alone. Don't worry, i can't make my comics when I'll be free someday.

About xTenPiYeX (Zer0finix):

First, Zer0finix made her sonic character Elina the blonde hedgehog and shipped Shadlina. Then she made NSFW posts of Elina and Shadow on Twitter/X and Discord, at 2022 she begin to draw her oc the same as Radi (Honoi's character), Dira is Radi's twin sister, she had a crush on Void after the first mod of Radi. Zer0finix was xTenPiYeX in 2 years ago for making Friday night funkin VS Radi mod for everyone, but unfortunately, xTenPiYeX used her old name back to Zer0finix. At 2023 she was caught on YouTube when everyone made the drama about her and then xTenPiYeX/Zer0finix was gone forever.

And About Radi:

Radi was created by xTenPiYeX/Zer0finix at September 2022, he's the most beautiful stickman in the Muzix universe, when I looked up at his beautiful eyes, i blushed so hard.... And i started to draw as (@UKY_YR) style. When some bad person forced me not shipping Radi with Sally, i cried after i traced their pictures that they made me sick with Void and Radi's fangirls on twitter and Pinterest. I really didn't meant to disappoint everyone, but this bad person who shipped Radi and Cantarella, she made me cry more. And i decided to break up with Deviantart until the torture never ends.Btw, if you see the screenshot of Elina on Pinterest behind me, the toxic comments are here.What if i post more about my own character Sally and everyone will say bad things about me the same as with Zer0finix? No, I don't want to... I swear i really don't want to be like Zer0finix, i just want to be happy with my best ship Radally that i made for myself, not for everyone!And everyone and all the people hates Elina the blonde hedgehog because she has done more horrible things for drawing NSFW of her. So yeah, Zer0finix more like Ped0finix.

Please don't let them report me, and be sure that I'll be safe, it's too much hate and torture... I don't want to see those toxic words who hates Radi x Sally on Deviantart and Pinterest. Tomorrow I'll release the comic about Radi and Sally were he comforts her after she had a nightmare, and then I'll break up with Deviantart. I love you all, and no more toxic hate about my own characters.

[martianbugsbunny]

OUAT Thoughts Pt.47--Episodes 7-8

I have watched through S5E8; spoilers DNI. Also, spoiler warning for anyone further behind than I am.

—Watching Hook rise from the well of the Dark One annihilated me. I didn’t see it coming. The closest I got was wondering why the heck Emma would put him in the basement with Zelena to begin with, but that wasn’t near close enough.

—Snow being left to watch Zelena was a very bad idea. She’s not only among the most empathetic people in the Charming group, she’s also a mother. Of course it was easy for Zelena to play her.

—Imma be honest, if Emma had succeeded in using Zelena to destroy dark magic, I would not have been upset. Robin and Regina could raise the kid and I wouldn’t have to see Zelena’s obnoxious mug ever again. Also the darkness would be gone, but, you know, I’ve got priorities.

—Nimue didn’t wear the darkness nearly as well as Rumple did.

—Her being the first Dark One made that bit just before Merlin was turned into a tree even worse. This one I saw coming in idea, but I had no clue how.

—Her and Merlin are fascinating. Merlin is just plain and simple light—I think he’s more light than even Emma has ever been. He’s experienced with immortality, and he knows that even though most mortals crave the idea of it, the reality of immortality is a burden. That bit about how moments are like diamonds, and if you accrue too many of them they become worthless, was remarkable. And then you’ve got Nimue. Personally, if my s.o. believed that a short life of ordinary moments with me was better than all of eternity as the most revered person alive? I wouldn’t risk that for anything. (Particularly considering I have separately reached the conclusion that immortality would suck.) Heck, she even had a chance to take a step back and maybe have an immortal life doing good with Merlin, but even that wasn’t enough for her. She chose to crush that guy’s heart—and did he deserve it? Totally. But she ruined her life by killing him. She ruined Merlin’s life. And I’m sure she’s ruined other lives, because if she could kill to become the Dark One then she has most certainly killed as the Dark One.

—I’m mad at Hook for falling in with Zelena. I hate her more than most people, and I love Hook more than most people, so seeing them working together is a huge pain.

—There’s something interesting about the fact that Hook A) didn’t unintentionally use magic before he knew, and B) didn’t exhibit any personality differences before he knew. I guess what you don’t know is in you can’t be a temptation.

—Emma’s new house being the house she wanted with Hook kills me. I also love that Hook discussed it with Henry first. Although to be honest, it would be cooler to have their little family living on the Jolly Roger.

—I’m also starting to wonder now if the Dark One who tore things up in Camelot is going to end up being Hook, not Emma. So far, it’s been bewildering how she could fall far enough that Merlin could be afraid of her, but Hook provides a logical alternative. I mean, I hate to throw shade at him, but he’s been drawn to darkness in the past, and being a Dark One is probably making that return.

—I don’t quite understand why Merlin has emphasized Nimue so much. She’s dead, she literally has to be dead in order for other Dark Ones to have followed, so she can’t do anything. And other than being the origin of the Dark One, I don’t see how she’s important at all. It’ll probably become clear later.

—Hook getting out of those chains by taking off his hook hand was genius.

—Merlin resisting the power of Excalibur was awesome. I think if a Dark One resisted the dagger it would be different, but because Merlin is basically the epitome of goodness and light magic it’s cool.

—Having the Excalibur half tether to a person is cool. If one half can do it, why not the other? Although, I’m quite worried about what’s happened to Merlin, now that Hook has replaced him in being tethered to the sword. Is it possible that it made him mortal? I don’t want him to die!

—There’s something very darkly romantic about Emma’s and Hook’s names both being on the reforged sword together.

—I love good Rumple and I dearly need to see more of him. My brain has nearly imploded just from the crumbs I got today. And to moon over him again, he’s got confidence like he had as the Dark One, but not the sinister feeling. And I don’t have a clue how Robert Carlyle can manage to project each of these separate body languages so well; I don’t know what exactly it is that’s different to remove the air of sinisterness, but there are definite differences between each phase of Rumple’s life and it’s damn beautiful.

This post took me forever to write because I low-key filleted the tip of my finger on that little plastic rim beneath the cap on a soda bottle, and I can’t type well or fast with a band-aid on. Plastic is vicious.

[scribomaniac]

Something Wicca This Way Comes Ch 10

After almost a year I am back and with a chapter update! It felt good to write again and I hope I can keep churning out chapters and finish this fic up in the next few months. 

Killian couldn’t believe it. The past few hours were a blur to him and as he sat in his living room, staring down at his clasped hands, he tried to process it all. Emma was the Firestarter. What did that even mean? It meant that she’d killed the judge, sure, but what else? Was she the one that tried to steal the Book of Shadows? Did she have anything to do with the break in? According to the Book, she could be either good or evil. Killian desperately wanted to know where she landed on that scale, but if he was being honest with himself, he was also terrified.

Liam obviously thought he knew the answer, since he was the one to trap her in the crystal cage after blasting her through glass windows. Killian had always trusted Liam in times like these. His instincts were always so spot on . . . except for that time with August. But maybe Emma had been behind that, too. If she was the Source’s bodyguard, if she had gotten close to him only to kill him and his brothers.

Clenching his jaw, Killian wasn’t sure what to think anymore.

“We have to question her,” Liam’s voice broke through Killian’s thoughts. His voice soft but firm.

Killian shook his head, “No. No, I can’t. It’s too soon.”

“It’s been an hour, Kil,” Will shrugged, “we can’t wait forever.”

“The longer we wait, the more vulnerable we are.” Liam sighed as he stood from his seat. “We need answers, and she can give them to us. Now you can stay here and try to . . . process all of this, or you can come upstairs with me and Will.”

After zapping her with the crystals, Will orbed Emma’s body up into the attic. The plan was to keep her in the crystal trap until they could think of what to do next. However, after an hour of sitting silently in their living room they didn’t have much to go on.

Liam wasn’t waiting any longer, though, and headed towards the stairs without waiting for an answer from Killian. “Come on, Will.”

Knuckles tightening, Killian’s nostrils flared as he stood up suddenly and passed his older brother, checking Liam’s shoulder with his own on the way up.

When they opened the door to the attic, everything looked exactly as they had left it, save for one small detail. Emma was now awake.

“Emma,” Killian breathed out. He stepped forward, then stopped, unsure of what to do. He looked her up and down, checking her for any wounds Tink might have missed earlier. “Are you—?”

Raising a delicate brow, Emma chuffed out a laugh, “What? Are you seriously going to ask me if I’m alright?” Looking around at the crystals, now dark and quiet, Emma snorted, “How chivalrous.”

“Who are you?” Liam asked, moving to stand in front of Killian.

Emma tilted her head, “You know my name.”

“Who are you really?” Liam squared his shoulders and raised his chin, looking like the strong Navy captain leading his crew into battle. “We know you’re the Firestarter. We know you’ve been trying to kill us—” At that Killian had to look away. Did they really know that? For certainty? “—so tell us, who are you?”

“I don’t know what to tell you,” Emma smirked, looking like she was enjoying this all immensely. “I never lied about my name.”

“Just about everything else,” Liam sneered.

“We don’t know that for sure,” Will said slowly, walking up to stand very close to the edge of the invisible boundary of Emma’s trap. “Emma,” he bent down to look her in the eye. Killian thought he looked like a teacher about to ask a very small child why they hit their classmate. “Are you a good Firestarter, or a bad one?”

Raising a brow, Emma asked, “Really?”

“Christ, Will, we know she’s evil. She was working with that Spirit for Christ’s sake.” Liam yanked his youngest sibling away from Emma by the back of his shirt.

“Well it never hurts to ask! Besides, she was possessed by the Spirit, so,” Will stood back up to his full height and shrugged his shirt back into place. “And your questions wasn’t any better. Who are you—really? That’s the one thing we do know!”

“God you’re so annoying,” Emma pushed her hair from her face and looked down the ground, as if trying to hide from the Charmed Ones and their bickering. “I should’ve let Zelena kill you.”

“Then why didn’t you?” Killian found himself asking. It had been bothering him for a while now. Why hadn’t she killed him when he was powerless in her apartment? Why not let Zelena kill them—possession or no? If destroying the Charmed Ones really was her goal, then she could have claimed that victory at least a dozen times by now.

Emma didn’t look up at him. In fact, she acted as if she hadn’t heard his question at all. She sat as still as a statue in her trap, her knees brought up to her chest and her hands covering her brow.

Nostrils flaring, Liam stomped forward and grabbed a crystal lying outside the trap’s ring. “I’ve had enough of this.” He placed the crystal on the trap’s border, activating the other stones and striking lightning straight into Emma’s chest. “Now talk!”

Emma’s body clenched with pain but she rode the wave of electricity out silently. “Liam—“ Will started, his face easily showing his confliction.

Liam didn’t listen though, slamming the crystal against the border again, asking, “Who sent you?”

This time Emma did cry out, doubling over onto her side. Her cries echoed in Killian’s ears, and his eyes squeezed shut. He couldn’t do this. Not this. It might have been a lie for her, a ruse to get close to the Charmed Ones, but it hadn’t been fake for Killian. He couldn’t just cut the place in his heart she’d wiggled into. Couldn’t ignore the sirens going off in his head saying that this was wrong and make it stop!

At his limit, Killian turned and ran out of the attic.

At the bottom of the stairs Killian leaned over to catch his breath. With his hands resting against his knees, he sucked in oxygen as if he’d just ran a marathon. He could only guess what his brothers were thinking of him. A coward, perhaps. More than likely they thought him a fool. Liam did, he knew. And his older brother was right. He’d been tricked by a pretty face and a shy smile.

“Killian? You okay?”

Looking up, Killian found Tink standing in the dining room, a crease between her brows.

“Aye, I’m—I’m fine, Tink.”

Eyes narrowing, Tink looked him up and down before jerking her head back towards the kitchen. ���Come on,” she said, “sit down and have something to eat. You look like you’re about to keel over.”

Knowing better than to argue with his white-lighter when she gets that glint in her eyes, Killian followed Tink into the kitchen and took a seat at the counter. Before he knew it a cup of tea was placed before him and he could smell meat cooking on the stove.

Back turned to him, her attention seemingly on the food in front of her, Tink casually asked, “So how are you feeling?”

Huffing out a laugh, Killian cupped the mug in his hands and focused on how the heat seeped into his skin. “I don’t know,” he answered honestly. “It’s still sinking in.”

Tink hummed and the pan in front of her sizzled. “I am too. I only met Emma a handful of times but I never would have guessed—a Firestarter,” she shook her head, “that’s so rare.”

“I should have guessed,” Killian said darkly, thinking about every interaction he’d had with Emma these past few months.

“Oh, Killian,” Tink paused her cooking to turn around and look at him with her big, sad eyes, “How could you have possibly known?”

“Liam knew—I should have listened to him.”

“Liam,” Tink said slowly, carefully, as she turned the stove off and placed a plate of bacon in front of him, “is suspicious by nature. Oh, don’t give me that look! I love him, but he could’ve just as easily been wrong about her as he was right. He’s too protective of you and William by half.”

Keeping the look on his face—brows furrowed, lips pursed, jaw tight—Killian continued as if he didn’t hear her. “I’m such an idiot. She was there the night of the Guardian attack, the arraignment, she just happened to be driving by the day the house was burgled—I mean, I bet she was the reason why I kept getting all those strange premonitions!”

“What premonitions?” Tink asked as she not so subtly pushed the plate of food closer to him.

Raising a brow, Killian picked up a piece of bacon and shoved it in his mouth. Speaking around the food, he explained, “I had a few visions of the past. One about a little girl crying and the second about Mary Margaret’s baby.”

Standing up straighter, the white-lighter’s eyes glinted with a strange intensity that confused Killian. “A baby?” She asked, leaning across the kitchen island to look Killian straight in the eyes. “Mary Margaret’s? When?”

Swallowing, Killian answered, “One was after I first met Emma, the night Nolan was attacked, and the second was when Liam brought up the Firestarter. I was reading the page when I saw some female demon take Mary Margaret’s baby from the hospital.”

“And what did that demon look like?”

“Uh—” Killian tried to think back. “I don’t know. She had long hair, wore feathers and diamonds.” Biting on his lip, he added, “I think she said something about being fair, or this was fair? It was a while ago. Why? What’s the matter?”

“Nothing—nothing, I just. I need to go.”

Before Killian could get another word out, Tink orbed away.

“Oh, is that bacon?” Will’s voice called out from behind Killian, making the middle Jones brother blink. “I’m starving!”

“I’ll bet,” Killian muttered, glaring at the strips of meat still on the plate on front of him. Torturing sure could whip up an appetite. He should know after all, since Killian had tortured numerous demons over the past few years. Stomach curling at the sudden memories, he pushed the plate of bacon towards Will and said, “Have mine.”

Popping a strip into his mouth, Will mumbled a thanks. Killian waited to hear more footsteps approach, signifying Liam’s entrance, but he never came. Turning around to look down the hall towards the staircase, Killian asked, “Liam still up in the attic then?”

Liam grunted, “No, I convinced him to take a break.  He’s in his room with the Book of Shadows.” He took a moment to lick the grease off his fingers and then wipe them off on his jeans. “I think he’s looking for a truth potion recipe or something since Emma’s not talking.”

That hardly surprised Killian. He remembered what happened to the last demon they’d trapped—Glass was his name, or something like that. He’d tried to talk and had been turned into ash. Frowning, Killian realized that could have been Emma’s doing too. But then again, was she really so powerful that she could start fires that she couldn’t see? Inside of a crystal trap? If she could do that much damage when she wasn’t even the room, then surely the Charmed Ones would’ve been dead by now.

So that meant there was someone else who was that powerful. Killian’s mouth ran dry at the thought of it. Of Emma being there one minute, and the next swallowed up by Hell fire.

“I need to—” he stood up and shook his head. Unable to look his younger brother in the eye, Killian stormed from the kitchen. “I need to go upstairs.”

He took the stairs two at a time, bringing a light layer of perspiration to his skin. The door to the attic was still open, and from the top of the steps he could see Emma in the same spot he left her in. She looked tired—crystal lightning would do that to you—but otherwise fine.

Hearing his arrival, Emma turned her head to look at him. Their eyes locked, freezing Killian where he stood. Finally, after at least a minute of silence, Emma joked, “I’d invite you in, but the place is a mess.”

The joke fell flat, and the silence returned. Killian could hear his heart beating in his chest. He had so many things he wanted to say, so many questions he wanted to ask, but his tongue was a dead, leaden thing in his mouth, preventing him from so much as uttering the smallest of sounds.

His feet returned to him though, and one foot at time he crossed the threshold into the attic, then found himself toeing the line of the crystal trap.

To Killian’s surprise—or was it? Can he really be surprised anymore?—Emma stood up and looked him straight in the eye.

“Killian,” she whispered, her green eyes wide and bright and staring right into Killian’s soul.

Swallowing thickly, Killian heard himself ask, “Was any of it real?” The question was absurd, he realized. Of course it wasn’t real. How could it have been? Still, he found himself needing to hear it from her lips.

Emma’s brows furrowed and her lips locked together. She looked at war with herself, but that couldn’t be. Why would she be conflicted over such a simple question? Stepping back, the hairs on Killian’s neck rose as he considered that this might be an act; a way to regain his sympathy and trust. She’d played him for a fool once, but not again. Killian was stronger than that.

“Alright!” Liam’s booming voice broke the silence as he swiftly entered the attic, his hands full of the Book of Shadows. “Here were are—Killian?” The eldest Jones brother cut off upon noticing the younger. Narrowing his eyes, he looked back and forth between Killian and Emma, “Alright, mate?”

Killian tried—and most likely failed—to hide a grimace. Taking another step away from Emma, he nodded, “Aye. I’m—everything’s fine.”

“That’s good!” Will said as he trailed Liam in at a much slower pace. “Because Liam here thinks he’s found . . . something.”

“I have found something—look, close the door and come over here.” Will closed the door, then the three of them walked over to the corner of the room where they kept a chest full of scrying crystals, potions, and other witch-like items. “See this?” Liam pointed to the margins of a page about chakras and how to cleanse them. Right beside that though, underneath Liam’s finger, was a spell written in pencil.

“Who wrote that?” Killian asked, leaning in closer to get a better look. It must have been written ages ago as he could barely make out the words.

“Haven’t the foggiest, but it’s a truth spell. I can just about make it out, and once we have it we can use it on Emma and get out answers.”

Will hummed, pursing his lips in thought. “I don’t know Liam, that’s not very official, is it? It might not work.”

“But it’s worth a try.”

“We can barely read this,” Killian shook his head. “I don’t know. What if we mess it up and hurt—” Killian glanced over his shoulder. Emma was watching them, but without any signs of interest. As if she didn’t care a lick about what they were talking about. As if she didn’t care what they did to her. “Someone?” Killian finished lamely.

Liam gave him a dry look, opening his mouth to continue the argument when the attic door banged open. Before any of the Charmed Ones could so much spin around to greet their intruder, a very angry Mary Margaret roared, “Get away from my daughter!” And with the wave of her arm, she sent the Charmed Ones flying.

[swanqueeneverafter]

Sins of the Past Pt.26

Wonderland. Lizard's Home. (While the streets are filled with people celebrating the Caterpillar’s arrest, Lizard stands staring out of her window wistfully as Will enters.) Lizard: “Are you enjoying yourself?” Will: (Staggers:) “It might be the best night of my life. They’ve arrested the Caterpillar and his goons. I’m a free man.” Lizard: (Smiles:) “I heard.” Will: (Closing the door:) “Which begs the question what are you doing in here all by yourself? (Lizard says nothing:) Oh, I get it. I think I understand what's going on here. (Walks over to her and speaks in her ear:) You fancy someone. I knew it! All right. Out with it. Name the lucky bloke out there who caught your eye.” Lizard: “I'll never tell.” (Lizard gets up and walks to the other side of the room.) Will: “Hang on, I’m Mr. Fix It. I know a thing or two about helping women in love get what they want.” Lizard: (Scoffs:) “You can't make anyone fall in love with me.” Will: “Well no, but I can help in other ways, make him notice you. I mean really notice you.” Lizard: “Well, you tell me, then. (Pokes him in the chest playfully:) What makes you notice a girl?” Will: “Me? Let me think...confidence. Confidence is a terribly sexy quality in a woman.” Lizard: “All right. What else?” (She circles him.) Will: “Passion. Spontaneity. Willing to take chances, explore new places, and style. She should really know how to wear a dress. And a naughty streak don't hurt. But it all comes down to this; when I see her, it feels like fireworks are going off.” Lizard: “Fireworks?” Will: “Fireworks. Because without that, there's nothing.” Lizard: “All right, then. I want that. I want all of that.” (Lizard reaches into her pocket and pulls out a small red diamond.) Will: “What’s that?” Lizard: (Holding up the diamond:) “This is my wish. The Oracle gave this to me as payment for bringing Ella to her.” Will: “She what?” Lizard: “And now I’m going to use it to make my dreams come true.” Will: “Lizard, wait! (Lizard closes her eyes and squeezes her hand tightly around the wish. Disappearing and then reappearing in a cloud of smoke, Lizard stands before Will wearing a beautiful white dress. Impressed:) All right, then. Let's go out there and show these lads the girl they've been missing.” Lizard: “I'd rather stay in here.” Will: “Oh, come on! What are you so afraid of?” Lizard: (Walks closer to him:) “I'm afraid that the man I like doesn't feel about me the way I feel about him.” Will: “Have you seen yourself? He'd be a complete and utter idiot, and blind to boot. If you don't want to go out there, I'll bring him back here for you.” Lizard: (Will moves to the door:) “No. Wait.” Will: “Tell me who he is, then.” Lizard: “It's you, Will. It's always been you.” 

(Will stares at her then drops his head. Lizard walks over to her bed and takes a seat.) Will: “I guess I was right. The bloke you fancy is a complete and utter idiot. Lizard, I'm sorry.” Lizard: “No. It's all right. I'm fine, really.” Will: “Look, you know I like you. I always have. You're a terrific mate, and we've always had the best times together. It's just -” Lizard: “You don't love me.” Will: “It's not just that- (Will stares at Lizard as she suddenly struggles to breathe:) What's happening?” Lizard: (Gasping for air:) “It’s...it’s the wish!” Will: (Catching her as she falls:) “Take it back!” Lizard: “Will!” Will: “No! No! No! No! No! No! Please, no! Liz! Liz! No!” Lizard: (Lying in his arms:) “I just wanted you to feel something for me.” Will: “I'm sorry. I'm sorry. (Lizard dies:) Liz! No! I'm sorry.” (Will rocks her in his arms while fireworks illuminate the sky outside the window.)

Storybrooke. Rollin' Bayou. Opposite The Dragon’s Lair. (A montage of Tiana cooking inside the food truck. Cracking eggs into a bowl then whisking, adding flour and then kneading the dough. Using a pastry wheel to cut the shapes and then deep frying. Topping with sugar and then placing in paper bags to order, Tiana smiles and wipes her brow.) Ella: “Where is everyone coming from?” Tiana: “Location, Location, Location. Mom always said nothin' attracts a crowd like a crowd.” Ella: “Amazing! You're really doing it.” Tiana: “Mm-hmm.” Ella: “You know we could set up a stand at the Sunday farmers' market.” Tiana: “Oh, meh. Farmers' markets are for Old MacDonald. No. I'm thinking jazz, luring people in to a popcorn-light-lit food truck. We park it at festivals and movie nights.” Ella: “Okay.” Tiana: “And then serve étouffée and boudin.” Ella: (Holds up a bag of beignets:) “Buckets of these guys.” Tiana: “Yes. (Both laugh:) Oh, it finally feels like we are headed in the right direction.” Ella: “You're a dreamer, and I love you for it, and god knows I need a job.” Tiana: “Uh huh and that is exactly the reason why you need to take this risk. We’ll get you a truck of your own that’ll be your responsibility. It's time to change the game and take a big swing for once. You owe it to yourself. You owe it to your Mama, wherever she may be. Come on. Let's make her proud.” Ella: (Falters then after a moment, smiles:) “Okay. I'm with you.” Tiana: “Yeah? All right. (Laughs:) Great. And with a little bit of sugar and spice and everything nice, we are going to show everyone who is boss.” (While Tiana deals with the customers, Ella takes a step back, the words ‘make her proud’ echoing in her ears. With her career path seemingly laid out in front of her, Ella is more determined than ever to confront Regina once and for all.) The Dragon's Lair. (Lily enters the bar. Noting that the tables and chairs have been rearranged and a stage has been erected, Lily makes her way over to the bar and takes a seat.) Zelena: "Lily, we didn't expect to see you tonight." Lily: "And miss Regina on stage? Not likely." Zelena: "I'm surprised Elsa let you out." Lily: (Smiles:) "I’m surprised my Mom agreed to you adding a stage to the bar in addition to the restaurant.” Zelena: (Zelena winks:) “Bet you’re not surprised Regina agreed to be the very first act on the new stage though.” Lily: “Well, as far as Elsa goes, she's not a big drinker and she figured with Emma and Regina around, this is the safest place I could be." Zelena: "She has a point. Although you can obviously take care of yourself." Lily: "That's what I told her. Anyway, I think those two are only gonna have eyes for each other tonight." (Maleficent stands on stage and manages to quieten the rowdy crowd with a glare.) Maleficent: "Ladies and Gentlemen, and I use that term loosely, the Dragon's Lair is proud to present Storybrooke's hottest Mayor, Regina Swan-Mills!" (Maleficent leaves the stage as Regina rises from beneath and the lights dim. With the spotlight shining upon her, Regina begins.) Regina: ♪ Come on, babe, why don't we paint the town. ♪ ♪ And all that jazz?♪ ♪ I'm gonna rouge my knees and roll my stockings down ♪ ♪ And all that jazz ♪ ♪ Start the car, I know a whoopee spot ♪ ♪ Where the gin is cold, but the piano's hot ♪ ♪ It's just a noisy hall where there's a nightly brawl ♪ ♪ And all ♪ ♪ That ♪ ♪ Jazz ♪ (As promised, Emma watches from the crowd front row, center. The Sheriff is unable to take her eyes away from her wife while she sings and gyrates on stage. With a huge smile, Emma makes eye contact with Regina as she continues her song.) ♪ Slick your hair and wear your buckle shoes ♪ ♪ And all that jazz ♪ ♪ I hear that Father Dipis gonna blow the blues ♪ ♪ And all that jazz ♪ ♪ Hold on, hon, we're gonna bunny hug ♪ ♪ I bought some aspirin down at United Drug ♪ ♪ In case you shake apart and want a brand-new start ♪ ♪ To do ♪ ♪ That ♪ ♪ Jazz! ♪

Idirsholas. (Lancelot’s party rides for the fortress and enters the ruins. The knights spread out, their weapons drawn.) Lancelot: "What’s that noise?" Xena: "What noise?" Lancelot: "A sort of trembling sound." Xena: "That’s your knees knocking together." (Xena and Gabrielle move ahead while Lancelot rolls his eyes. They enter the chamber in the fortress where the knights were awoken. Lancelot checks the ashes of the fire.) Lancelot: “It seems part of Joseph’s story was true. Probably just travellers passing through.” (Gabrielle turns her head back toward the entrance.) Gabrielle: “Or maybe not.” (Everyone turns as the Knights of Idirsholas draw their swords. Xena, Gabrielle, Lancelot and the others fight the knights. Xena runs one through, but it doesn’t fall. Fight, stab, repeat. Lancelot loses his sword in an undead knight’s gut.) Sir Leon: “Lancelot!” (Leon throws Lancelot a sword.) Xena: (Slashes at two knights with little effect:) “This isn’t working!” Gabrielle: “We need to go! (Lancelot and his men retreat. Gabrielle follows but stops when she sees Xena standing there:) What are you…?!” (Xena throws her chakram, causing the roof to cave in as it bounces off the walls. Catching the chakram, Gabrielle pulls Xena backwards out of the room while the entrance way crumbles.)

Kingdom of Valencia. Dining Room. (Richard, Roberta, Henry and a very embarrassed Gareth have dinner together.) Gareth: (Clears his throat:) “I’d like to thank you for exposing this attack on our state. Once again, magic was used to strike at the heart of Valencia.” Roberta: (Tad Cooper resting on her arm:) “You mean, your heart.” Richard: “How many nights did you share a bed with a troll?” Gareth: “Obviously I was under its spell. (Richard sniggers:) I did many things that I…regret.” Henry: “Gareth, that’s okay, I’m sure we really don’t want to know the details.” (There is quiet for a moment before everyone laughs, Richard pulling faces to mimic Gareth’s moment of clarity. Eventually, despite himself, Gareth finds the funny side of things and joins in with the laughter.) Wonderland. Town. (Walking through the now deserted streets, Anastasia arrives at Lizard's home and enters through the open door. Seeing the girl's body on the floor, Anastasia rushes over to check her pulse. Feeling nothing, she closes Lizard's eyes and leans back on her haunches.) Will: "It's my fault. (Startled, Anastasia turns to look at Will who sits in the shadows:) She wished that I could love her and when I couldn't, she..." Anastasia: "Will, what are you talking about? People don't just keel over and die from rejection." Will: "It was her dying wish." Anastasia: (Moving over to him:) "Will, snap out of it. You're not making any sense."

Will: (Sighs:) "Lizard used a wish she got from an Oracle." (Will holds up the small diamond between his thumb and forefinger. Taking it, Anastasia inspects it closely.) Anastasia: "Before Lizard used this, did it glow red?" Will: "Yeah." Anastasia: (Nods:) "It was cursed. It didn't matter what wish Lizard made, as soon as she used the diamond, she was done for." Will: "Why would the Oracle do that to her?" Anastasia: "My guess? To cover their tracks. The Oracle must not have wanted Lizard to identify them for some reason." Will: "Aye, and I think I know why. Ella went to see this Oracle and they told her that someone killed her mother." Anastasia: "Who?" Will: (Shakes his head:) "She wouldn't say. We got separated soon afterwards. I think Ella's going to do something stupid and there's no way I can stop her." Anastasia: "All right, well first thing's first. We need to see what Ella saw. (Anastasia walks over to Lizard's body and kneels beside it:) There's a spell I can use that can show us everything Lizard saw during her last few hours. If we get lucky, maybe we can see who this supposed Oracle was." Storybrooke. Forest. (With Mordred still believed to be hiding within Storybrooke's borders, Ruby and Mulan prepare for a long night’s shift sitting by their campfire.) Mulan: "Do you ever wonder what your life would've been like if you had a normal childhood?" Ruby: (Considers:) "There probably would've been a lot less running involved. (At Mulan’s look:) My entire village ran me out of town.” Mulan: “Really?” Ruby: “With torches and pitchforks.” Mulan: “Because you're a wolf?” Ruby: “I didn't always know I was, and I certainly didn't back then. I wasn't in control. And one night, I accidentally...” Mulan: “Killed your boyfriend, I know.” Ruby: “Yeah. I lived on the run after that, and... I eventually learned to control my power, made some friends along the way. I ended up in Storybrooke, but I still felt like there was something missing.” Mulan: (Smiles:) “You’re such a Gabrielle.” Ruby: (Scoffs:) “Well not everyone gets to take our father’s place and fight in the Chinese army as a teenager. (Laughs but notices Mulan doesn’t join in:) Mulan, what's wrong?” Mulan: “I didn’t replace my father. My father left us when I was still a young girl.” Ruby: “I’m sorry, I just assumed from the movie... Why haven’t you told me this before?” Mulan: “It’s ancient history. Everything else from the movie is true though. Except for Mushu, I’m not sure what that was about.” Ruby: “Oh you know how they are, every movie has to have a plucky comedic sidekick.” Mulan: “Perhaps they’ll remake it one day. Replace the dragon with a smart, sexy wolf.” Ruby: (Laughs:) “Can wolves be sexy?” Mulan: “Oh please, like you don’t know.” Ruby: “You’re weird.” Mulan: “Maybe, or just hopelessly in love.” Ruby: “Hm, could be.” Mulan: “Definitely. (They kiss:) I’m so glad we found each other.” Ruby: (Kisses her again:) “Me too.” Mulan: “And I’m so happy you didn’t make the same mistake I did and told me how you felt before it was too late.” Ruby: (Smiles:) “Well thanks to a certain TV show, I know how tortured some warriors can be about their past and how it can stand in the way of their happiness.” Mulan: “Thank god for those plucky sidekicks huh?” Ruby: “We have our moments.” Mulan: “Yes, you certainly do.” Ruby: “Feel like having one of those moments right now?” Mulan: (Chuckles:) “We’re on duty.” Ruby: “Yeah, and we’re going to be all night long. I don’t think that campfire’s going to be able to keep us warm throughout, do you?” Mulan: “So you’re saying we might need to generate some extra heat ourselves huh?” Ruby: “Couldn’t hurt.” (Leans over and kisses Mulan’s neck.) Mulan: “You know you’re a terrible influence.” Ruby: (Removing her cloak:) “Uh huh. Do you need help with your armour?” Mulan: (Already pulling off her boots:) “No, I’ve got it.”

The Dragon's Lair. (David finally enters and makes his way over to the bar while Regina is reaching the crescendo of her performance.) Regina: ♪ Big wheel keep on turning ♪ ♪ Proud Mary keep on burning ♪ ♪ And we're rolling, rolling ♪ ♪ Rolling on the river ♪ ♪ And we're rolling, rolling ♪ ♪ Rolling on the river ♪ (Picking up his drink from the bar, David turns and sees his wife making a fool of herself, arguing drunkenly with three men.) Snow White: "I'll have you know that is my daughter-in-law up there, buddy! (Staggers:) You see she used to be my step-mother and then there was this curse and-" David: (Stepping in:) "All right, Snow, I think everyone knows about your history with Regina. I'm sure these gentlemen don't need to-" Maleficent: "Will you idiots shut the hell up? Regina's just about to go into her big finish!" Snow White: "Don't you tell me to shut up, blondie!" Maleficent: "Excuse me?" Snow White: "That's right, I'm talking to you, (Makes horns with her fingers:) Dragon lady." David: "Oh boy..." Snow White: "Don't think I don't know that you've still got feelings for Regina. (Hiccups:) We all see it." David: "I am so sorry." Snow White: "No! I knew we made the right decision telling Emma and Regina to hold off rescuing you. They're married! Married! You get that? You missed your chance." Maleficent: (To David:) "You told them not to come for us?" David: "That's not exactly-" (At that moment, one of the drunken men Snow was arguing with bumps David's arm, causing him to spill his drink over Maleficent.) Drunk Man: "Hey, cat fight!" (Disgusted, Maleficent pushes David backwards into the man which causes a fight to break out. While just about still able to stand, Snow lunges at Maleficent. Watching this all transpire from her bar stool, Lily turns to Zelena.) Lily: "And this is why we can't have nice things." (Downing her shot, Lily rushes over to break up the melee while Regina reaches the climax of her performance.) Regina: ♪ Big wheel keep on turning ♪ ♪ Proud Mary keep on burning ♪ ♪ And we're rolling and we're rolling ♪ ♪ And we're rolling on the river ♪ ♪ Yeah ♪ ♪ All right, now ♪ ♪ Yeah, rolling, rolling on the river ♪ ♪ Said they're rolling, oh, rolling, yeah, rolling on the river ♪ ♪ I tell you they're rolling, a-rolling, a-rolling on the river ♪ ♪ Yeah! ♪ (The crowd explodes in cheers and applause, Emma standing on her chair, arms raised high in the air, as proud as can be.)

Wonderland. Lizard's Home. (Will watches on with revulsion as Anastasia holds Lizard's severed eyes in her hand.) Will: "Eugh, if I knew you were going to do that, I would have said forget it." Anastasia: "It's the only way to capture Lizard's parting glances, Will. Do you think I enjoy cutting people's eyes out of their sockets?" Will: "All right, all right. But we're giving her a proper burial after this." Anastasia: "Agreed." Will: "So how does this work?" (Anastasia walks over to the kitchen and retrieves a bowl from the shelf. Placing the eyes inside, she walks back and puts the bowl on the table.) Anastasia: (Waving her hand over the bowl:) "De visu intueri. Visione revelare." (A blue cloud of images forms above the bowl. Quickly scanning them, Anastasia stops at a familiar face within the visions.) Will: "There! That's Ella. But who's she talking with?" Anastasia: "That's... That's my step-mother, Cecelia." Will: "What?" Anastasia: "Will, whatever that vision of Cecelia said to Ella is a lie. There's only one person responsible for Cecelia's death and she's long dead." Will: "What are you talking about?" Anastasia: "Come on, I'll explain on the way. We've got to stop Ella from doing something she'll regret." Will: “Wait, what about Lizard?” (Anastasia grabs him by the arm and pulls Will out of the house. Closing the door, she performs a sealing charm.) Anastasia: “There, she’ll be perfectly preserved in there until we have time to come back and give her a proper burial. Now come on!” (Anastasia grabs Will’s hand and pulls him along the deserted streets.) Storybrooke. Forest. (Bathed in moonlight, Mulan and Ruby explore each other's bodies while the campfire crackles beside them. Unnoticed by the lovers, a lone figure passes by their campsite through the shadows. Stepping momentarily into view, we see that Mordred has finally re-emerged from hiding.) The Dragon's Lair. Hallway. (Knocking on Regina's dressing room door, Emma waits for an answer.) Regina: (From inside:) "Who is it?" Emma: (Smiling:) "Your number one fan." Regina: (Chuckles:) "Come in." Dressing Room. (Opening the door, Emma is about to shower Regina with praise when she takes in the sight before her. Clad in only her underwear and with her bra undone, resting beneath her exposed breasts, Regina lays posed waiting for Emma's arrival.) Regina: (Reclined on the couch:) "Would you mind closing that? (Dumbly, Emma closes the door:) What took you so long?" Emma: "Apparently a fight broke out. Lily and Hook are dealing with it though. (Staring at her wife:) What would you have done if it was someone else at the door?" Regina: (Chuckles:) "Emma, I saw how you were watching me. I think if anyone else had tried to knock on my door, you would have shot them." Emma: "Fair point. (Walking further into the room:) You... you were... unbelievable." Regina: (Smiles:) "You enjoyed it then?" Emma: (Removing her jacket:) "Do you really want me to give you a full review right now while you're laying there naked or would you like me to catch up?" Regina: (Considers:) "How about both?" Emma: (Chuckles, unbuttoning her jeans:) "There are so many words to describe what I just witnessed, but I'll do us both a favour and start at the middle and work my way down." Regina: "Hm, so words starting with ‘M’ then?" Emma: "You were marvellous, mesmerising and magnificent. (Pulling her top over her head and throwing it aside:) But best of all... (Leans over Regina and kisses her deeply, taking the reclined woman's breath away:) You are undeniably, (Moves lower to place a kiss on Regina's right breast:) one hundred percent... (Kisses the other breast, gently removing the bra and tossing it aside:) without a shadow of a doubt... (Lays a trail of kisses over Regina's stomach, dipping her tongue into her belly button. Reaching Regina's underwear, she takes hold of them:) Mine." (Lifting her hips in anticipation, Regina yelps with delight as Emma removes her underwear in one smooth, powerful motion.) Regina: "Now and forever, my love." Emma: (Sinking to her knees, places each of Regina's legs over her shoulders:) "Shh, rest your voice. Because after what you did out there, and what I'm about to do in here, you might not be able to speak for a very long time." (Emma lowers her mouth to Regina's center. With the first touch of Emma's lips to her folds, Regina throws back her head ready to sing once more, although this time the sounds coming from her lips are cries of ecstasy, reserved only for her preferred audience of one.)

[theonceoverthinker]

Favorite Mad/Curious Archer moment? 👀👀👀

Fuck! What a good question!!!!

I thought about it and I think my favorite moment for them is the one I have as my header! I love it for a few reasons!

1. We get some wonderful banter between Tilly and Margot, really showing off more of their dynamic in this world. They are such a cute couple and the casualness of the scene really complements that!

2. Tilly gives Margot wonderful advice! Tilly might not be perfect in social circumstances, but what she excels in is empathy, something she shows off here as she helps Margot understand how Zelena feels without even having met her and being completely correct! 

3. Margot shows off how she knows Tilly in a way few others do! The moment where Margot shows how she sees Tilly by discussing the heart-shaped beignet! The character work in this scene is *chef’s kiss*

4. ...I just really like their outfits. Half of the reason I went for my header is because of Margot’s big diamond-shaped earrings -- I love them so much!

[gaveherhearttotheliontattoo]

Title: Once Upon A December - Chapter 12

Pairing: Swanfire

Word Count: 2665

Warnings: None that I know of

Prompt: Emma doesn’t remember anything except that she comes from the Enchanted Forest. The first 8 years of her life are a blur but she does have a necklace to help her find her way… And apparently a man who thinks she could be the missing princess. Emma doesn’t know what to think except that it’s her only way to get back to the Enchanted Forest so if this Neal guy thinks she could be this princess she will go along with it. Love and family will find their way.

Notes: Okay, from here on it's just me and my imagination because while I love Anastasia I always wanted more. So, here is my version of more. Sorry not sorry for the length :)

Series: Prologue, Chapter 1, Chapter 2, Chapter 3, Chapter 4, Chapter 5, Chapter 6, Chapter 7, Chapter 8, Chapter 9, Chapter 10, Chapter 11

Taglist: @sassyandclassy94, @swanfireheart, @notalwaysthevillian

--

Emma stared at herself in the mirror. The strapless dress hugged her curves and she wasn’t sure how she felt about it. It was smooth across the bodice with just a hint of lace around the waist. The simple top did not match the ballgown skirt, but apparently as the princess her fancy dresses would always be as such. She turned, watching her dress shine in the sunlight. She never thought this many sparkles could be on one skirt.

“Emma?”

Emma spun towards the door, nearly tripping over the gown. “Oh, Ruby, I was just…” Emma looked back at the mirror.

“You were just what?”

Emma stared at her reflection. “Am I doing the right thing?”

Ruby sat on the edge of the bed. “Why would you ask that?”

“I know it’s been a year since Zelena but if she was out there…then there have to be others. Others who want to destroy the royal line. Am I don’t the right thing by saddling Neal to this? Doesn’t he deserve better than having to constantly look over his shoulder?”

Ruby rolled her eyes. “He fought for you, literally. When you wanted to return to the castle he went with it, he encouraged it.” Ruby stood up and turned Emma towards her. “He loves you. He’s here for you. Now, straighten yourself out because there’s a whole ballroom full of people waiting for you.”

Emma pressed her hands to her stomach, these nerves were taking a huge toll on her.

“Ready?”

Emma looked up and found her dad standing there. “Ruby, can you give us a minute?”

David shut the door after Ruby and looked at his daughter. He wasn’t a crier but looking at his daughter, all grown up and taking the next step in her life, he couldn’t help himself. “You look beautiful. Your mother would be so proud of the woman you’ve become.” David stepped closer, clearing his throat. “I’m so proud of the woman you’ve become.”

Emma smoother her hands over her stomach. She hadn’t felt good all morning, and the twinkle in her father’s eye made her cringe. “Is this the right thing to do?”

David stepped behind her, placing his hands on her shoulders. “The only person who can answer that question is you.”

Emma stared at her father and thought about how he’d lost the love of his life so early on in their marriage. Her parents had been together, fighting together for years, when her mother was cursed. This time, however, true love didn’t work to heal her. If that had been Neal, Emma shook her head, unable to even think of the worst. They’d nearly encountered it with Zelena, anything more and she wasn’t sure what she would do.

“I can’t do this,” Emma gasped, ripping at the back of the dress, searching for some way to get it undone. “Please get Ruby.”

David’s heart lurched as he watched his daughter fall into a heap on the tile. He wanted to be the one to help her but he knew this wasn’t his place. He stepped out of the room and found Ruby dragging Neal down the hall.

Neal glanced up at the clicking of heels on the floor. “David.”

David waited until Neal was in front of him to speak. “Emma would like to see you. Ruby, why don’t you and I go for a walk and see if we can’t find the best man and ring bearer.”

Neal stared after David. He wasn’t supposed to see the bride before the wedding, in her wedding dress, it was bad luck but damn, he wanted to see her. He started to Emma’s room and slowly pushed the door open. The scene inside brought him to his knees. As he kneeled, only a few feet from Emma, he listened to her sniffle. Was this the end?

“Ruby, I need you to help me get this off,” Emma said into her hands.

Neal shook his head and moved closer, inching her hands from her face, grasping them within his.

“Neal!” Emma tried to pull away but the comfort of Neal’s hands, the warmth, helped her regain control. “You’re not supposed to see me, especially in my dress, before the wedding.”

Neal used one hand to tuck a few stray tendrils of hair behind her ear. “Something is wrong and that’s more important than some stupid supersition. Besides, until you tell me what’s going on, there will not be a wedding.”

Emma stared into his eyes, finding stability. She’d always been so strong. It had only been her fighting for herself for so long, but now she had a family she could rely on. It wasn’t something she’d ever grasped how to handle. “I started thinking about my mom and how if that was you I didn’t know if I would be able to go on. I didn’t want to saddle you to my life trials.”

Neal couldn’t stop the laugh that passed through his lips, and he only laughed harder when he saw the glare from Emma. “You can’t be serious? We fought the evil witch and won, we can handle anything life throws our way.” When Emma looked down and didn’t respond, Neal sobered. “Emma, I love you. I’ve loved you most of my life. You were my first real friend and without your family I would have had no one. So, please, do not make me go stand in front of all these people without you by my side.”

Emma looked up into those shining eyes and wrapped her arms around him, burying her face in his neck. “I love you too.” She pulled back, still holding onto him. “Send in Ruby when you go.” Emma stood, pulling Neal up with her. She wanted so badly to kiss him, but knew it would be that much sweeter when she was finally able to call him hers.

------

Neal pulled on the bottom of his jacket before straightening his spine. His nerves kicked his perspiration into high gear and he was worried it would show through his jacket if the ceremony didn’t start soon. This was happening, he was marrying the lost princess. He’d loved her since they were children, he’d fallen in love with her when he didn’t know who she was, and he continued to be in love with her when he found out who she was and though he could never have her.

It was a pipe dream for the servant boy to marry the princess but here he stood, more terrified than when he faced Zelena, more terrified than when he thought he was going to lose Emma. Now he would never lose her, not until they were both old and gray. They were going to take on the world together and even though she wanted to return to the castle, he believed they would find more adventures. They would travel, but in the end they would always return to the castle.

Emma stared at the closed doors, her stomach churning.

“Ready?”

Emma shifted, looked up at her father. “I think so.”

David kissed the side of her head. “I’ve always been a fan of neal, and he returned you to me so I will always owe him; however, if you are uncertain, if you want to cancel, just say the word.”

Emma laid a shaking hand over her stomach. “No, let’s do this.”

David signaled the guards and they opened the doors.

Neal jolted at the abrupt change in music and creak of the opening doors, but immediately settled when he saw Emma. He’d seen her earlier but he’d been so worried about making sure she was okay that he never took a chance to appreciate her appearance. Her hair was up, a few tendrils framed her face. There was only enough makeup on her face to highlight her features but it was the dress that really caught his attention.

The sun beamed through the stained glass, the colors reflecting off the sparkling white ball gown. Her skirt flowed around her with a sheer veil trailing behind her. The skirt looked scattered with diamonds, and it probably was. The simple bodice hugged her and he caught the glimpse of lace around her waist when the sunlight glinted off the sparkles. It was strapless and her clear, pale skin glittered with the makeup that was dusted over her. Simply put, she was stunning.

Emma locked eyes with Neal and felt her pulse jump but her nerves settle. He was her rock, as she was his. Together they were going to conquer whatever life threw at them. When her father shook Neal’s hand and then turned to her she saw a smile holding back the tears. He kissed her cheeks before placing her hands in Neal’s and stepping off to the side. Emma let the warmth of Neal’s hands wash over her, calming her.

------

“You may kiss the bride.”

Neal crushed his lips to Emma’s, pulling her snugly against him. “I love you.”

Emma curled her fingers in his hair. “I love you.” Emma pressed her lips to his one last time. “We should move to the dining hall for the banquet and dancing.” She pulled away and tugged at his hand running down the makeshift aisle with him in tow. She ran down the hall passing the dining hall.

“Uh, Emma?”

Emma held a finger to her lips before pulling Neal under the stairs. “They’ll just assume we’ve gone to change, since that’s a thing royals do.”

“Or they’ll assume exactly this.”

“Who cares? We’re married now.” Emma put her arms around his neck, dragging him closer. “I’m thinking we should go back to Arendelle first.”

Neal pulled back, staring into her bright eyes, wishing he knew what was going on in that head of hers. “Em, I thought we were going to go somewhere we’d never been?”

“I want to go to where this all started,” Emma whispered, nipping at Neal’s bottom lip.

“After Arendelle we shall leave it up to the map, right?”

Emma let her lips trail down Neal’s neck. “Yes, the map.”

Neal’s arms tightened their grip around Emma. “Em, can we go to the party now? I’m starting to lose my self control.”

Emma pulled back, humor lighting her eyes. “You go. I really do need to go change into my other dress.”

Neal watched her go before heading into the party himself. He was surrounded the minute he stepped into the dining hall, being congratulated and hugged. He made his way through the crowd, the tightness in his shoulders increasing the more he was hugged or fawned over. He spotted Ruby and August with David next to one of the buffet tables and pushed to get through to them.

“You look a little tense,” Ruby said, the laughter shone in her eyes. “Did your lovely wife leave you to take the brunt of everything?”

Taking a deep breath Neal turned to look at the dancing, laughing, and eating guests. “She mentioned something about needing to change, because apparently that’s a thing royals do.”

Ruby couldn’t stop the laugh this time. “She didn’t have another dress.”

Neal turned his stare on Ruby. “Then why did she tell me she had to change?”

Emma brushed her teeth, hoping the smell of her getting sick would go away. She’d kept up her spirits until she was far enough away from Neal to run to her room. She didn’t know what it was, the nerves from before had vanished as soon as she saw Neal, but she was still feeling sick. If it wasn’t the nerves what could it be? Maybe she hadn’t gotten enough sleep and between that and the lack of food and drink she had taken in, she got ill. With no other explanation coming to her easily she reapplied her makeup and went to join the party.

She found Neal with her father. They were a pair of strikingly handsome and powerful men. While Neal wasn’t prepared to be king any time soon, he stood tall and looked like he could battle an army. Her dad, despite his age, still looked strong and ready to take on the world. The gray hair reflected his long and tiring life. Emma’s heart swelled with love as she stared at the two most important men in her life.

Neal caught her gaze and his smile faltered. Her skin was paler than before and she seemed smaller now. He strode to her and took her in his arms. “Are you okay?”

Emma grinned. “Never better. I was just thinking how strong you and my father look standing together. You’ll make a good king one day.”

“We’ve got time before we have to think about ruling.”

Emma kissed Neal’s cheek and took his hand in hers. They walked to her father and when they stood there David cleared his throat.

“Ladies and Gentleman, thank you for taking the time out of your day to come and celebrate the union of these two. If we could clear the floor I would like to ask the band to strike up some music for the first dance of the night.”

Neal twirled Emma into his arms and swayed to the music. They spun in circles, staring into each others eyes, and soon the world around them became a dull hum. It was just the two of them now and they were going to own every moment of it.

David tapped Neal’s should, “Mind if I cut in?”

Neal backed up, the noise booming in his ears again. He watched father and daughter move around the dance floor. Maybe one day he would do the same with his own daughter or Emma with their son. They hadn’t exactly talked about children so Neal wasn’t sure where Emma stood on them. He wanted one at least, but wouldn’t mind more.

The spinning around the dance floor was causing Emma’s stomach to turn again. “Dad, let’s move off and let the others all dance.”

It had been a year but David would never get used to hearing Emma calling him dad. He followed Emma to their table. “Are you alright?”

“Good, just a little dizzy is all.”

Neal came over and placed a glass of water in front of Emma. “After all that dancing I thought you might be thirsty.”

Emma gulped the water down. “I didn’t realize how thirsty I was. I’m feeling a little hungry too.”

“I’ll go put a plate together for you.” Neal leaned down, brushing his lips over her brow.

------

The party lasted for hours before Neal had had enough. He pulled Emma away and they said their goodbyes. With bags packed they climbed into their waiting ride. Tonight they would stay at a hotel just outside of town and then they would catch their ride to Arendelle in the morning. Neal glanced at Emma, her complexion yet paler and her eyelids heavy. The party had taken a lot out of both of them, hell the nerves from the whole day had taken a lot out of them. Neal was looking forward to laying with Emma wrapped in his arms for the night.

Emma was too tired to fight with Neal about carrying her bags into the hotel herself. She followed him in and collapsed on the bed. “We should sleep first.”

Neal dropped on the mattress next to her, pulling her against him. “Sleep sounds marvelous.”

So they slept, until the moon was high in the sky and Emma’s stomach threatened to empty onto the mattress. She bolted to the bathroom.

After flushing the toilet she washed her hands and rinsed her mouth. After avoiding the possibility all day Emma sat down on the edge of the tub and considered what could be making her sick. The nerves were long gone, she had eaten and hydrated herself so that couldn’t have been it, plus she’d just slept enough so that left either illness or...

[pandaqueen7799]

19. kisses meant to distract the other person from whatever they were intently doing  

Who: Killian Jones/Captain Hook

Requested by @bakerstreethound

A/N: This turned out a little angsty? Hope that’s okay 😅

——————————————————————————

 “Killian?” You called into the house as you shut the door. You’d spent the day babysitting little Robin while Regina and Zelena were out trying to mend broken bridges, and wanted nothing more than to take a long bath and cuddle with your lover. You were met with silence though, and as you place your keys on the table by the door, you call out to him again. “Babe? Are you home?”

“I’m in here love,” Killian called from your bedroom. You let out a sigh of relief as you made your way towards the bedroom.

“Did you know that babies-“ Your words were halted at the sight that greeted you when you walked into the room. Killian sat shirtless, in a pair of sweatpants that fit him so well you fleetingly wondered why he would ever wear anything else, on the edge of the bed with your laptop in his lap. “What are you doing?” He didn’t even spare a glance up as you stood frozen in the doorway.

“Just trying to find something,” He finally glanced up as you walked over to stand in front of him.

“Who taught you how to use a laptop?”

“Can’t a pirate have any secrets?” He tilted the screen down as you tried to look and see what he was doing. “Sorry, love. Top secret.” You raised an eyebrow in confusion. Killian never kept you in the dark about anything, even if everyone else wanted him to. (The last time they tried to throw a surprise birthday party went terribly, as Killian felt so bad for you when it clearly bothered you that seemingly no one had remembered your birthday that he immediately dropped the act and told you about the party.) Still, you trusted him, so you decided to just let it go for the time being.

“I’m going to run a bath, would you like to join?” He seemed to consider the offer for a moment before shaking his head and returning to the screen.

“I really need to finish what I’m doing here, but I’ll join you after?” You didn’t respond, hoping he’d look up and see in your face that you really needed him to be close. His focus was rock solid though, and you found yourself growing more impatient by the second. Right then. Desperate times, desperate measures. You leaned down and kissed him, earning a muffled yelp of surprise. “Love, I-” He tried to say as you carded your fingers through his hair, but his protests grew weaker quickly, and you let out an internal cheer as he began to kiss you back in earnest. You closed the laptop lid slowly and lifted it into your arms. Grinning, you pulled back and took off running through the door with your prize clutched tight against your chest. “(Y/n)!” A quick glance over your shoulder had you stumble Really it should be illegal for him to make sweatpants look that good! But you made it into the makeshift office you had set up for writing, and you quickly locked the door behind you. “(Y/n), please just let me in. I promise I’ll explain.” Curiosity overwhelming you, you opened the laptop. ‘Top 10 Sailing Destinations in the World’ was the headline that greeted you, leaving confusion in its wake. Why would he hide this from me? Unless- oh my god he’s leaving Your mind reeled with heartbreak and shock. You supposed it made sense, after all, once a pirate always a pirate, but the hurt threatened to suffocate you as you made your way to the door. You opened it slowly, eyes cast down to avoid his gaze.

“(Y/n), please-”

“When are you leaving?” You whispered, not trusting your voice to speak up. Had you been looking up at him, you would have seen his face contort in confusion.

“What are you talking about?” Rage flowed through your veins like fire at his words, and you shot your gaze up to his.

“Don’t try and play dumb with me, pirate. Clearly, there are other places in the world you’d rather be, so just do me a favor and get out before I have Regina come and throw you out.” You seethed, fighting the tears that threatened to spill.

“Right and I’ll just take this ring with me too, shall I?” Your gaze dropped to his hand, not noticing that he’d been holding it out when you’d thrown the door open. In his palm rested the most beautiful ring you had ever seen, intricate designs were carved in the sides leading up to a- A DIAMOND? “Call me optimistic, but I was trying to find somewhere to take the most beautiful woman I know after she made the questionable decision to be mine for all eternity.” He had dropped to one knee, and looked up at you with searching eyes, trying to decipher your expression. His turned to panic though as tears began to flow freely down your face. “Darling, I’m sorry I should have-” You cut him off by dropping to his level and throwing your arms around him before crashing your lips together.

“I’m so sorry I assumed the worst, Killian. I’d be honored to sail by your side for the rest of our lives.” You said as you finally pulled back. He reached down to slip the ring onto your finger before bringing your hand up to his lips and placing a kiss over it.

“Thank god, now you can help me work that bloody machine. Do you know how hard it is to type one-handed?” You couldn’t help but laugh as you pulled him into another kiss.

“Come on then, Jones. We’ve an adventure to plan,”

[godandmonsters1996]

“I don’t need a party this whole marriage thing is a fraud” Regina sighed in defeat, she knew there’s no way in hell her sister is going to let any opportunity of a party to slide away.

“Are or are you not going to be legally married to Robin?” Zelena huffed, she hated her sister had to go through with this thing, she wished she could stop it but shell be damned if she won't let her sister have one night of fun before she is forced to be tied to the Locksleys.

“I am,” she said as she stepped out of the car, Zelena took her outside of town to a bar she would have never stepped a foot in if it wasn't for her overbearing sister. To be completely honest, Regina didn’t care that much about this marriage, she never fell in love with anyone before and she’s in doubt she’ll ever will. Robin was nice, he was caring and attentive, he had a crush on her since high school and it was the best way to promise the future of their family company. They needed it with her father’s health problems and her mother’s poorly administration skills.

“Two shots, extra dirty” her sister ordered for them and the woman smiled and fetched the bottle and glass. “Please try to have fun,” 

“I-“

“Regina,” a voice stopped her from finishing her sentence and she finally looked at the bartender, green orbs looked into her soul and she forgot to breathe for a second.

“Emma,” the name left her lips and she forgot how easy, how sweet, how right it felt in her mouth. “What are you, you work here?”

“I own this place,” she explained, “After I was.. after Storybrooke a lot of things changed..” She and Regina used to be best friends before another family sent her back, being in Storybrooke, being with Regina was the best era in her life.

“I’m going to...” her sister pointed at a blond guy who clearly studied her and excused herself. She had a feeling that her sister knew. She must have known.

“How are you?” Emma asked shyly, wiping the counter and staring at her hands.

“Good,” she stared at the blonde, studying her green orbs and sunny locks and something inside her changed, maybe it was the alcohol but fear and regret starting to wash through her. “I’m getting married” she whispered to herself but the blonde heard it.

“Congratulation” Emma smiled tightly and stared at the big diamond on Regina’s finger.

“I need more of this,” she held her glass, suddenly she wanted to party, suddenly she wanted to forget.

And after an hour when she moved behind the counter and kissed Emma roughly. Possessively. Sliding her tongue between her lips and tasting every corner of her mouth, she felt alive.

Emma tried to stop her, stating she was engaged and drunk but Regina didn’t let her. She threw her diamond ring on the floor, declaring shell explain later before taking Emma to her apartment.

She never fell in love before, she probably wasn’t in love now. But Emma was something she treasured, she knew come morning she will still have to get married. It’s the only way. But as she kissed down Emma’s stomach to where the blonde’s needed her the most, when she tasted Emma and moaned with delight, when she felt Emma shuddering against her tongue, she, for a moment, was free.

[worryinglyinnocent]

Fic: Everything Money Can Buy (6/12)

Summary: The Greatest Store in the World AU. When misfortune strikes and leaves Emma Swan and her son homeless just before Christmas, the ever-resourceful Emma has a ready solution. They’ll move into Mills Department Store, a place they can only dream of affording to buy from. It’s not easy, having to deal with a perpetually grumpy doorman, a nasty assistant manager, and an extremely suspect Santa, but Emma and Henry soon learn that the kindness of strangers is something money can’t buy.

Swan Believer centric, with eventual Swan Queen and background Rumbelle and Dwarf Star.

Rated: G

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[One] [Two] [Three] [Four] [Five] [AO3]

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Six

One thing that had always been a blessing when it came to Henry was that he was an avid reader. They'd spent so much time in libraries over the years as nice and warm safe havens, and he would never tire of books. It was such an easy way to entertain him and to get under a roof for as long as they needed. 

Although the books section in Mills wasn't quite as extensive as the local library, Henry seemed quite happy to stay there for as long as was required. It was quiet there and he'd found himself a little reading nook, away from the watchful eyes of the woman behind the cash desk, who wasn't paying him any attention anyway. Emma decided to take a risk and leave him there for a while so that she could go and surreptitiously check that all their bags and baggage were still safe in the tent.

She was wending her way through the jewellery counters on the ground floor when she found herself trapped between several more earnest shoppers than herself and Santa. She wasn't quite sure why Santa was touting for business in the jewellery section, since it wasn’t exactly likely that there would be all that many children around here, but she wasn't going to knock it. The more customers the merrier. Maybe he got paid on commission by how many parents coughed up the five quid for a visit to Santa's grotto and he needed as much as possible to keep his rum habit going over the holidays. She wondered how he managed to get away with it; surely someone in a place like Mills had some kind of scruples about drinking on the job.

Although, that said, Santa didn’t really look all that much like he was touting for business with any degree of enthusiasm. No, he seemed to be far more interested in the contents of the jewellery counters. Emma raised an eyebrow. All things considered, she thought it highly unlikely that he would be able to afford any of the shiny goodies behind the glass, but stranger things had happened. Her own life was a cavalcade of experiences that no one could ever credit happening in real life.

“Killian!”

The word came not too far from Emma’s ear, a sharp hiss that was probably not intended for her hearing, but that she picked up anyway having spent so many years being on her guard and listening for absolutely anything that might be a threat. She glanced over to see someone trying to shepherd Santa away from the counters as surreptitiously and yet as forcefully as possible. Emma recognised her as the rude woman they’d met on the stairs the other day, and once again she wondered at her position in the store. She was evidently someone very high up because Santa stopped his perusal of diamond necklaces and almost stood to attention when he saw her, meekly accepting the summons and subsequent banishment back upstairs to the children’s department, his elf following along limply behind him.

The dark-haired woman let out a long sigh, pinching the bridge of her nose, and Emma thought that despite her high position, she was feeling the strain of working in retail over the festive period just like everyone else was, although maybe not quite as acutely as those who were dealing with customers on a regular basis.

“I honestly don’t know why Zelena hired him,” she muttered to herself, not realising that Emma could hear every word. Emma gave a little scoff of laughter, and the woman looked up sharply, realising that she had an audience, and moreover that the audience was someone she recognised.

She didn’t recognise Emma immediately. She probably saw that many shoppers coming and going over the course of a day that all the faces blended into one, but Emma saw the moment that the knowledge dawned, and she shifted from foot to foot, wondering what was going to happen now. Luckily, the other woman seemed to be feeling just as awkward as she was about the circumstances.

Naturally, the sensible thing would have been to just walk away and pretend that the brief interaction had never happened, but they had now been looking at each other for too long not to make some kind of acknowledgement of the fact.

Emma decided to break the tension first; to get in quick before the other woman could think up some kind of barb to rival the ones that she had given the previous day.

“What happened to the previous Santa?” she asked. “You’ve had the same guy for years.”

“He’s laid up with a broken leg, unfortunately.” The dark-haired woman sighed. “At least I know that I only have to put up with Killian for another couple of days. I’d get rid of him if I could but Zelena’s in charge of hiring and firing and she seems to like him for some reason. God only knows what the attraction is. Still.” She shrugged. “Maybe she’ll stop trying to chase Gold now. Every time I see her in his vicinity I think he’s going to run for the hills. We can’t lose our Santa and our doorman in the same festive period.”

“Yes, that would be a travesty,” Emma agreed. The other woman caught the deadpan humour in her tone and laughed.

“I know, I know. It can be a bit much sometimes, but Mills has always had a doorman in grey and silver livery, going right back to when it was founded. I can’t imagine this place without one.”

“Well, the place obviously means a lot to you. Anyway, I must get on, nice to meet you, bye!”

Emma rushed away as fast as her feet could take her, only stopping to look over her shoulder once she was safely on the other side of the room. The brunette woman had gone, and Emma wondered again who she was and what she did here, to have such sway over Killian and to know so much of the history.

She also wondered why she couldn’t get her smile out of her mind, and she shook her head angrily in an attempt to drive the thoughts away. This was absolutely not the time to be developing a crush on a woman she’d met twice – and had an argument with on the first occasion to boot. Emma had sworn off all forms of romance in her life as soon as she’d discovered she was expecting Henry, and for the past ten years she’d managed to stick to that without any trouble. It must be the Christmas spirit in the air, she thought. Making her go all silly like something out of a low-budget holiday flick. It was a good job that she was called Emma and not something like Holly, Carol, or Noël. Then she’d have no hope, but on the other hand, she’d be assured of a cheesy Hollywood ending in which everyone lived happily ever after thanks to The Magic of Christmas™. The trouble with films, Emma thought darkly as she stomped towards the escalators to go down to Outdoors and check on their bags, was that they never showed you what happened after the credits rolled; never showed you the realities of life once the joyous throes of a new relationship were over.

She sighed. She’d become so cynical during her twenty-eight years that it was really rather depressing when she stopped to think of it. Perhaps believing in Christmas magic wasn’t such a stupid thing after all. She didn’t want it to set her up with someone, though. She wanted it to get her and Henry a nice safe place to live, and herself a stable job, and some halfway decent Christmas presents for the both of them.

If it set her up with the mysterious dark-haired lady, then that would just be a nice added perk.

X

As much as Henry had enjoyed living in Mills for the last couple of days, the novelty was beginning to wear off slightly. The main problem, he’d decided, was that since the escalators and lifts were switched off after hours, and since the camping section where he and Mum were staying was in the basement, and the tearoom where they were getting most of their food was on the top floor, that meant an awful lot of walking up and down stairs.

“All right,” Mum said once they were finally at the tearoom. “Let’s see what we can find for ourselves today. I’m in the mood for soup.”

“Mum, the last time you tried to heat anything up here, you broke the microwave and a waitress got the blame.”

“Good point, well made. It’s ok, there’s a stove. Hard to break one of those.” Mum started pawing through the shelves, coming up empty-handed with a sigh. “Oh, come on, they can’t have sold everything sell-buy today. That’s just ridiculous. They’d never get over it if they ran out of something, it would be a scandal. Front page news: “Mills tearoom is out of scones, what is the world coming to?””

Henry had to laugh, and he went over to the next fridge to help look for things.

“Erm, Mum?”

On the bottom shelf of the fridge was a large patisserie box with the words ‘sell-buy today’ written on it in big letters.

For a moment, Henry and Mum just looked at it. Henry wasn’t entirely sure that it wasn’t a trap like in old cartoons, and the moment they moved it, alarms would start sounding and a net would spring out of the fridge to catch them.

Mum shivered from the cold of the fridge door being opened and dragged the box out, the desire to eat winning out over the suspicions of intent. Sure enough, when they opened the box on the counter, it was full of the food that they had been unable to find in the over fridge, along with another, slightly smaller pastry box with a note on it.

This chocolate gateau got dropped so couldn’t be sold. It’s only been inside the cake display unit and not on the floor so it’s safe to eat even though it looks dreadful.

It did indeed look like a small bomb crater rather than a cake, but Henry, unable to stop himself from scooping up a fingerful of rich buttercream, could attest that it definitely tasted much better than it looked.

Mum was just staring at the collection of food.

“I think someone other than Belle knows that we’re here,” she said. “I guess our snacking was more noticeable than we hoped.”

Although Henry had come to the same conclusion, he didn’t really know what to make of it. They weren’t doing anything wrong by eating the food that would not be sold. Lots of places gave their unsold food to homeless shelters at the end of the day; it just so happened that they were homeless and being slightly more proactive in the procuring of the unsold food.

“Do you think it’s going to be a problem?” he said.

Mum shrugged, before grabbing a couple of spoons and handing one to Henry, digging into the chocolate cake herself.

“I mean, they might know that we’re here, but they don’t necessarily know who we are. It’s a bit like the elves and the shoemaker.”

“They leave out food for us and in return we make their shoes?”

“Well, the elves and the shoemaker without the whole ‘shoes’ part.”

They continued to eat the cake in silence for a little while.

“So, what do they want if they don’t want shoes?” Henry asked. In his experience, people generally didn’t do something for nothing, and now they had Belle covering for them in the foyer and a mysterious unknown person providing them with food in the tearoom. Unless Belle was responsible for that as well, but Henry didn’t think she could be. She wouldn’t know about dropped chocolate cakes unless she worked here for a start.

He thought back to Astrid, the waitress who’d been blamed for the microwave disaster and wondered. If anyone suspected that there was someone using the kitchen after hours, then it would be her, but at the same time, they’d given her no reason to help them out, in fact, quite the opposite. For a moment he stared at the chocolate cake in horror, wondering if it could be laced with poison in revenge for the microwave.

“Henry, are you all right? You look like you’ve seen a ghost.”

Henry told Mum his fears, and when she hid a smile behind her hand, he thought that perhaps they were going to be all right after all.

“Oh Henry, your imagination is wonderful, but it does get carried away sometimes. Don’t you think that poisoning a chocolate cake is just a bit of an overkill as vengeance for being blamed for a broken microwave that’s since been fixed and that we have dutifully steered clear of?”

“Well, you never know.”

“Besides, however wrong it might be for us to be living in the department store, murder is still worse, and someone would have to get the blame when they come in tomorrow morning and find our bodies in the tearoom. That would be an even worse scandal than running out of scones.”

“I don’t know about that; this is Mills after all.”

“Well, it would be a close second.” Mum paused. “Do you think that handyman’s asked her out yet?”

“Who, Astrid?”

“Yeah. You know, I think that you and I can fashion ourselves into little Christmas romance fairies if we’ve a mind to. Leroy the maintenance man and Astrid, Belle and Gold… We’re the perfect festive matchmakers. Love follows us around wherever we go.”

“Are you thinking about that woman we bumped into on the stairs again?”

“No!”

Henry just looked at her. He decided that he had definitely begun to inherit her internal lie detector. She folded.

“Ok, yes. I saw her again today in the jewellery section and we actually had a nice little chat that did not involve any snide remarks or glaring.”

“That’s a positive sign, I think. What’s her name?”

“I have no idea, she still wasn’t wearing a name tag, but she definitely works here.”

“Mum, you’re hopeless. You could at least have asked her name!”

“Oh Henry, I really don’t think that I’m in the right position to be romancing anyone at the moment; it wouldn’t exactly be easy to date. Sorry, must dash, I need to be back inside Mills and hiding in a cupboard before closing time.”

Henry shrugged. “You never know. Stranger things have happened. Especially at Christmas.”

“Don’t you start as well. I’ve already had to convince myself that I’m not the main character of a True Christmas film.”

“So, we’ll just act as the magic elves in everyone else’s True Christmas films instead.”

“Yeah.”

“Ok.” As much as Henry would love for his mother to find someone nice, he was content to facilitate everyone else’s happy endings instead. Maybe it would be best to start on Mum after the holidays, once they weren’t living in the store anymore.

As much as it might be losing its sparkle for him, Henry found himself thinking how much he would miss it.