#a honourable robin hood please step forward

[shmowder]

So patho accounts on twitter steal my memes without a warning, then reddit people come and repost those memes to the subreddit without credit to the said twitter accounts, and finally Instagram pathologic pages screenshot the entire thing and put it on their account without a mention of either of those previous providers.

My only wish is for someone to screenshot the stolen r/pathologic memes and repost it on tumblr—here, with zero credit, so the cycle is completed.

[shadowjack12345]

Curiosity

An alternate meeting: what if BB didn't join the Titans until much later?

Thanks, @knightb172

"Welcome aboard, Beast Boy," Nightwing said as he clasped the young man's hand in his. They both smiled at each other. Nightwing managed not to ask of the ears were part of the mask or just covered by it.

"It's an honour, Nightwing," he said smoothly. The other Titans strode forward to welcome their new member... save one. Raven hung back in the shadows, her eyes narrowed at the newcomer.

"It is good to have you join us, Beast Boy," Starfire sang. Tall and statuesque with golden skin and hair almost down to the floor, it was genuinely impressive that Beast Boy didn't stammer in return.

"On that we agree, Princess Kori'Andr," he answered. Starfire actually blushed a little, embarrassed at the title.

"Oh, that is not necessary. Starfire will do nicely," she said. He nodded once in agreement.

"I read the dossier Mento sent us," Cyborg said, arms folded but with a warm smile. Once again, Beast Boy was admirable calm in the face of Cyborg's physical presence."Impressive stuff." Beast Boy smirked.

"The whole dossier? Unless Mento's embraced brevity recently..." he started. Cyborg laughed.

"No, it reads like an academic paper. A very long, very dry academic paper. But... well, maybe 'read' was the wrong word. Gotta be some advantage to having a computerised brain, right?" Cyborg joked. Beast Boy nodded in comprehension.

"I'll take your word for it. Well, thanks everybody, I guess I'll go unpack or... wait. Are we missing someone?" he asked. Nightwing looked around and spotted Raven lurking in the corner. He waved her over and, though she rolled her eyes, she joined them.

"Hello," she said, curtly. She didn't extend her hand.

"Um. Hi," Beast Boy replied. She narrowed her eyes at him again before turning on her heel and leaving the room. Cyborg chuckled awkwardly.

"Don't take it personally, man. That's just how Raven is, especially when she doesn't know someone," he said.

"Sure, no problem. No problem at all."

LATER

Raven sat on the couch, book in hand, revelling in rare solitude in this space.

"Raven?"

"WHOA!" she said, less dignified than she might have liked. Beast Boy stood behind her, eyes wide behind his goggles.

"Are you okay? I didn't mean to startle you," he said. Raven, on her feet and breathing heavily, calmed herself a little.

"You... you snuck up on me. No one sneaks up on me," she said, more perplexed than upset.

"Oh. Is that bad?" he asked.

"It's different. I don't adapt to change very well," Raven grumbled. She sat back down. Beast Boy walked around to the front of the couch so she could see him.

"I was going to ask if I could watch the TV but it looks-"

"I can't read you," Raven interrupted. Her brow furrowed as she looked up at him. "Is it the mask?"

"Read me? Oh! Right, you're an empath. Well, if you work with someone like Mento, you end up building a strong defence against psychic intrusion. That must include your senses as well," he surmised. Raven's head cocked to the side.

"Can you turn it off?" she asked. Beast Boy blinked. Did she not realise how personal it was to ask to see someone's emotions? Actually, she probably didn't - it was her norm, after all. He shook his head.

"It isn't conscious. It'd be like asking me to switch of my immune system: I can't," he explained. Raven crossed her arms and looked away. Was she... pouting? "Maybe this could be fun," he added. Raven gave him that curious look again.

"Fun how?" she asked carefully.

"Well, it's gotta take something out of conversation if you always know what the other person is feeling, right? Now you get to try getting to know someone on equal footing. The old fashioned way," he said, a little enthusiasm creeping in as he spoke. Raven's eyes narrowed even more.

"You sound awfully certain that I want to get to know you," she said with quiet menace.

"Um. Well. Right. Well. Oh. Right. We-"

"One condition: I get to ask what you're feeling if I need to," Raven said. Beast Boy took a deep breath.

"Okay... if I get to do the same. And we don't have to answer if we don't want to," he said. Raven grimaced.

"Fine." Beast Boy extended his hand. Raven vanished.

LATER STILL

"Why do you wear the mask?" Raven asked. She sat at the table with Beast Boy. He chewed thoughtfully and swallowed.

"Why do you wear the hood?" he said.

"That isn't an answer," Raven said.

"You first."

"But I asked first," she complained. Beast Boy smirked.

"Maybe it's personal," he said. Raven raised an eyebrow.

"Is it?" she asked. He only smiled and ate another mouthful. "If I tell you about the hood, will you tell me about the mask?" Beast Boy grinned and nodded. "The hood is traditional amongst my people."

"Is that all?" he prodded. Raven frowned. How badly did she want to know about the mask?

"Sometimes... I can't hide what I am, but sometimes - most of the time - I don't like people to see me for what I am," she said. Suddenly, her face flushed brightly, while Beast Boy's smile vanished.

"My mask. Um. I added it to my suit when I was a kid," he said before sighing heavily. "Because of Nightwing. Well, Robin at the time."

"Wait. This mask is because you were Nightwing's fan?!" she hissed. "I told you all of that just to find out you had a childhood crush on Nightwing?!" she cried, loud enough now to draw the attention of the others in the room. She seemed to twist and tower over Beast Boy, growling quietly... then vanished, leaving only silence.

"Hey, uh... I have a girlfriend," Nightwing added with a shrug. Beast Boy smacked his forehead and groaned.

EVEN LATER

There was a knock at Raven's door. She only curled up more tightly in her sheets.

"Raven, it's me," Beast Boy said, muffled by the door.

"Go away," she said flatly.

"Ask me what I'm feeling," he said. Raven emerged from her bedding and fixed her door with a withering stare.

"What?" she snapped.

"You wanted to be able to. Ask me," he insisted. Raven stood and walked to the door but left it closed.

"What are you feeling right now?" she whispered.

"Foolish. Embarrassed. And very, very sorry. I'm sorry, Raven. I was just teasing, I never meant-"

"Are you saying it's my own fault for telling you my secrets?" she accused.

"No! I... listen, I shouldn't have even joked that the mask was personal - you can't sense when I'm kidding or not. I'm sorry I made you feel like you... exposed yourself. Made yourself vulnerable," he rambled. "Okay. I came here to apologise and I have. I'll leave you be for now." Raven heard his steps move away from her door. Her anger and embarrassment had faded and she leaned against her door and slid down to the floor. Suddenly, she heard Beast Boy's footsteps rush back to her door.

"Actually, I got one more thing. I'm not sure if it's a good idea but I'm doing it. Can I see you, Rae?" Raven's eyebrows raised at that. A nickname? With a sigh she stood and opened her door. Beast Boy smiled when he saw her, still wearing a blanket about her shoulders.

"Hi," he breathed.

"Hello," she responded, coolly. He took another deep breath, seemingly to psyche himself up for something.

"Okay. I know what you're dealing with is more than just a self-esteem or self-image problem but I can't not tell you. Raven - you are extremely pretty," he said, a little laughter in his voice. Raven blinked back at him.

"Excuse me?"

"I just wanted to say it, just in case you needed to hear it. You're beautiful, Rae. I know that isn't gonna magically fix everything but... I couldn't leave it unsaid," he finished. "Well. Goodnight."

"Take your mask off. Please," Raven said. Beast Boy froze in his tracks. His hands moved up to his mask - why did he even wear the thing? He was green, it wasn't like he could masquerade as a civilian in his downtime. With a nod he reached up and undid the various clasps that held his mask in place, lifting it from his head and running his fingers through his flattened hair.

Raven stared.

Of course his hair was green. Everything about him was green. Especially his eyes. His eyes that were staring back at her. They were somehow even greener and more inviting then Starfire's eyes, but the hair was still the problem. She clasped her hands together behind her back to stop herself from running her own hands through his hair as he had done. He squirmed a little under her intense gaze, and she finally averted her eyes.

"I see the ears are real," Raven blurted. Beast Boy did a double take.

"You thought they might not be?" he asked.

"After our conversation, I thought they could be Batman-inspired," she said. Beast Boy's mouth hung open. Wait. Was that... was Raven smiling? She was!

"Oh wow..." he breathed.

"Excuse me?"

"Sorry. Just thinking out loud. I'm gonna go now, okay?" he said. Already turning to leave. Raven watched him for a few moments before calling after him.

"Thank you! For what you said about me," she said, getting quieter with every word. He turned and, without the mask, Raven could see the blush.

"You're welcome," he answered, gently. Raven seemed to fidget, unable to look at him.

"You're pretty as well!" she shouted before retreating into her room and slamming the door. Beast Boy's mouth hung open again.

"Well," he said, shaking himself. "I am never wearing the mask again," he chuckled before heading to his room, a visible skip in his step.

THE END

Well, this was fun. I don’t really go in for AU but I’m not even sure this counts lol.

[swanqueeneverafter]

What Dreams May Come, Pt.9

Storybrooke. Rollin' Bayou. (Alice stands with a tray of beignets handing out free samples to passers-by.) Alice: (As someone takes a bite:) “Good huh?” Woman: (Nods appreciatively:) “Mmm.” (Alice turns and spots Robin waiting for her on a nearby bench.) Alice: (Walking over:) “Ah. Well, it's your lucky day because this is our last free sample, and I always save the best for last.” Robin: “Hm, well let’s see about that shall we?” Alice: (Taking a seat beside her:) “So, any news from the hospital?” Robin: (Picking up the last beignet:) “Mmhmm. My aunts dropped by the apartment earlier, the guy’s gonna be fine.” Alice: (Sighs with relief:) “Good.” Robin: “And, it wasn’t our fault. Well, not all our fault at least. He was texting and driving.” Alice: “Really? Well that’s a silly thing to do.” Robin: “Tell me about it, my Mom does the same thing. Although now she has her magic back, she’s not technically driving while she does it.” Alice: (Nods:) “I know, her enchanted car. She just gets in, tells it where to go and it takes her there. I still say it’d be handy for us sometimes.” Robin: “Yeah, but Mom won’t let me borrow it until I learn to drive the proper way. She’s such a hypocrite. Aunt Regina told me Mom’s hit more trashcans, mailboxes and street lights than everyone combined in Storybrooke.” Alice: (Chuckles:) “How is your mum, anyway? Bet she was glad to see you after our time away.” Robin: (Breaking off a piece of the beignet:) “I don’t know, I haven’t seen her. Apparently she’s gone to try out some new thing Henry’s into.” Alice: “What king of thing?” Robin: “Something to do with dreamscapes? (Holds up the beignet:) This rocks, by the way.” Alice: “Best one we made all day. It's heart-shaped.” Robin: (Turns it in her hand:) “Oh, yeah! Like a real heart. That's cool. You did this?” Alice: “Yeah. It was an accident, but I think maybe it was a happy accident.” Robin: “Yeah. I think that it was.” Jefferson: (Suddenly sitting on the bench behind them:) “But what your family is dabbling in is no accident.” (Both women turn around to look at the eavesdropper when Alice recognises him.) Alice: “Mr. Hatter? Is it really you?” Jefferson: (Stands:) “Yes, Alice, it’s me.” Alice: (Jumping to her feet, excitedly:) “Robin, this is one of my oldest friends, Mr. Hatter!” Robin: (As Jefferson nods to Robin:) “Mr. Hatter? (Thinks:) You mean the Mad Hatter?” Jefferson: (Stands:) “Some call me that. Others know me simply as Jefferson.” Robin: “Pleased to meet you. Although, what were you saying about my family?” Jefferson: “What they’re doing is dangerous. Dreamscapes are treacherous places best left alone. (To Alice:) You remember our tea parties?” Alice: (Smiles:) “They were wonderful.” Jefferson: “Yes, they were. But they came at a terrible price. (To Robin:) You have to tell your aunts to stay away from the dream world before it’s too late. (To Alice:) I’d hate to see your family ripped apart like mine was.” (Without another word, Jefferson walks away, leaving Robin and Alice to stare after him.)

Zelena’s Dreamscape. (With the same determined look on her face, Zelena replaces the hat upon her head and strides toward the Gingerbread house. The Witch is sweeping the doorstep when she hears Zelena approach. Dropping her broom, the Witch turns to meet her.) Zelena: “I am tired of playing candy crush with you.” Witch: (Using her powers, hurls a large peppermint swirl at Zelena, knocking her down:) “For the Wicked Witch, you're not so tough. (Picks up a giant candy cane and threatens the fallen woman with it:) Are you quite finished?” Zelena: “I'm about to be.” (Suddenly, Zelena holds up a container and robs the witch of her sight.) Witch: “Aah! Aah! Aah! You… You took my sight?” Zelena: “I know someone who needs it more than you. It's like I said, there's only room for one witch around here. Me. (Walking past the Blind Witch into the house:) And wicked always wins.” Gingerbread House. Interior. Zelena: (Entering:) “Hansel?! Hansel! Gretel! (Sees the empty cages:) Oh. (Notices Hansel’s discarded hat on the floor:) Oh, no, no, no. (Turns toward the roaring fireplace, clutching the hat in her hands:) I'm too late.”

Storybrooke. Swan-Mills House. (Emma and Regina return home from the baby shower.) Emma: “Don’t you think that was a little harsh?” Regina: (Innocently:) “I don’t know what you mean.” Emma: “Regina...” Regina: “I saw that baby shower coming a mile away.” Emma: “Seriously?” Regina: “There’s only so many times you can walk into an ambush without recognising the signs.” Emma: “So you set her up?” Regina: “No, I merely invited one of my friends to my baby shower. You’re telling me you have a problem with Maleficent now?” Emma: “No, but Aurora does, and Mom is always anxious around her.” Regina: (Relenting:) “Fine. I decided to have a little fun, but it was my party too. Besides, you had way more friends there than I did.” Emma: “That’s not true. Snow loves you and everyone else has forgiven you a long time ago for whatever you did to them.” Regina: “And what did I really do to them? Other than bring them indoor plumbing and electricity.” Emma: “Well, you cursed Ashley to be pregnant for twenty eight years, helped Maleficent put Aurora under a sleeping curse and had Ruby dress in some of the tiniest outfits I have ever seen.” Regina: “Ah-ah. You can’t blame me for the last one. Although I did enjoy those outfits.” Emma: “Uh huh. Anyway, the point is that everyone was there for both of us and our baby.” Regina: “Its not like I ruined things, we all managed to have a good time. I just evened things up a little.” Emma: “I’m just saying Mom looked a little upset.” Regina: “Oh please, Snow will be fine once she’s got a new baby to play with. Grandma Snow will get her revenge in many different ways.” Emma: “You know, it is still my duty to defend my family’s honour.” Regina: (Raises her eyebrows:) “Is that so? (Emma nods:) Well, I shall certainly look forward to that.” Emma: (Smirks:) “I thought you might.” Regina: “Mm, let’s go to bed, shall we?” Emma: (Takes Regina’s hand:) “Lead the way.” Kingdom of Valencia. (Several courtiers are gathered in the throne room as Chef guides Queen Madelena to her chair.) Chef: “Excuse me, excuse me. Chef coming through. Thank you. This way, my lady. Here's your table, My Queen.” Queen Madelena: “What fresh idiocy does King Richard have in store for me now?” Chef: “Um, I'm...” Queen Madelena: “That was rhetorical. Shoo.” Chef: “Chef out.” (He leaves.) (As Madelena takes her seat, Gareth takes to the dais.) Gareth: “Welcome to the show! I introduce to you, without further ado, the king of comedy!” King Richard: (Jogs onto the dais:) “Hello! Thank you very, very, very much. Now, I understand you've all come here under threat of death, and I appreciate it. In fact... I ordered it.” (Silence from the crowd.) Gareth: “Everybody laugh!” (The courtiers laugh, half-heartedly.) Queen Madelena: “What on God's flat earth is going on?” King Richard: “Well, they say the way to a woman's heart is through her funny bone, so...” Queen Madelena: (Rolling her eyes:) “Oh, God. Let's not do this.” King Richard: “Why did the king go to the dentist?” Queen Madelena: (Flatly:) “To get his teeth crowned.” King Richard: “To get his teeth crowned. Uh, you've heard that one. (Rallies:) Mm! ‘You might be a peasant’ jokes. If you have more children than teeth, you might be a peasant.” (Silence from the crowd once more.) Jester: (Stood watching beside the Chef:) “Ugh. He's dying out there. Give him the pie.” Chef: “Now?! That's the big finale.” Jester: “Damn it, man, look at the poor bastard. Give. Him. The pie.” (The Chef uncovers the cloche and runs onstage.) King Richard: “If your toilet is a tree, then you might be... (The Chef hands him the pie. Richard looks down at it for a moment before turning and throwing the pie in Gareth’s face. Everyone in the room finally laughs at this, including Madelena. Happily:) She laughed! It worked! She laughed! Quick, give me more pies so I can keep hitting Gareth in the face. (Gareth draws his sword menacingly:) Or someone else. I-I can pie someone else.”

Enchanted Forest. Past. Regina’s Dreamscape. (Marian is questioned by the Queen.) Marian: “Your majesty, no!” Regina: “Where is Snow White? (To her guards:) She thinks silence is bravery, not stupidity. She dies tomorrow. Hurry her along. The stench of peasant is overwhelming.” (The Evil Queen turns and walks away.) Marian: (Calling after her:) “I feel sorry for you.” Regina: (Stops, turns to face her:) “Do you?” Marian: “If you had a family of your own, if you had love, you'd know you shouldn't do this. (Regina walks back towards her:) You wouldn't have to be so cruel.” Regina: “Don't you tell me what I do or don't understand. I know who I am and what I want. And right now... (Grabbing Marian’s face:) It's your head on a spike.” (Regina turns away again, laughing.) Marian: “You're a monster! You're a monster!” (As Regina passes her men, she immediately finds herself alone in the forest. Turning in a circle, the Queen looks around confused until a lone figure steps out from behind a tree.) Regina: (Smirks:) “And who are you supposed to be? Robin Hood?” Emma: (Approaching, hooded and her face partially covered:) “That guy’s a hack who couldn’t lace my boots. I am the Nightwatchman.” Regina: “The what?” Emma: “Just… go with it. I’ve come to make you pay for your crimes.” Regina: “I see, and just how do you intend on doing that?” Emma: “Like this.” (Unexpectedly, Emma throws two daggers in quick succession at the Queen, pinning her wrists at her sides against a tree.) Regina: (Outraged:) “Emma what in the f-“ Emma: (Drawing nearer:) “Shh, this is a dream, there’s no way I would’ve actually hurt you.” Regina: (Pursing her lips:) “Hmm.” Emma: (Pulling the daggers out and freeing Regina from the tree:) “At least not like that.” Regina: (When Emma places shackles on her wrists:) “What the-“ Emma: “Now, your majesty, you are my prisoner. If you intend to resist, things will be much worse for you.” Regina: “Of course I intend to resist ��� I’m the queen!” Emma: (Smiles:) “Excellent. Walk. (Regina turns and walks a few paces while Emma follows behind. However, the Queen doesn’t get very far before Emma speaks again:) You know what? I think I prefer my captives naked.” Regina: (Looking down in horror to see her clothes disappear:) “Are you insane?!” Emma: (Smirking:) “Oh, you wouldn’t be saying that if you had my view.” Regina: “Emma!” Emma: “Relax. No one’s out here, no one’s gonna find us… unless you want them to? (Regina growls:) Besides, you can free yourself anytime you want. (Catches up with Regina, breathes softly into her ear:) I think you’re enjoying this. I think you can’t wait for the Queen to get what she deserves. (Regina trembles at this and Emma revels at the unmistakable signs of desire coursing through her wife. Speaks again into her captive’s ear:) Not much further now. See that big tree up ahead? (Regina nods:) Walk to it, then stand facing the tree and wait for me.” (With a shuddering breath, Regina complies. Emma smiles as she admires the view and congratulates herself for allowing Regina to keep her boots on. Upon reaching the tree, the Queen does as she was ordered and stands facing it, taking care to protect her protruding stomach by placing a hand in front of her. The rough bark pressing against her palm is soon tempered by the feel of smooth, naked skin pressing against her back.) Emma: (Whispering into her ear once again:) “Miss me?” Regina: (Her voice thick with arousal:) “Very much.” Emma: “Mm, I can tell. (Unshackles Regina:) Now for what comes next, you’re gonna need your hands to hold on to the tree.” Regina: “What are you going to- (Emma places her hands on Regina’s hips and gently pulls them back toward her. At the touch of the unmistakable stiffness pressing against her:) Ohh.” Emma: (Adjusting the straps:) “Mmhmm. Are you ready, your majesty? (Regina brings her shaking hands up to grip the tree in front of her and nods:) I’m sorry, but I will need you to say the words.” Regina: (Growling:) “Take me, Emma. Now.” Emma: (Smiling, placing her hands around the Queen’s waist:) “As you wish.”

Zelena’s Dreamscape. (Zelena returns to Ivo’s home.) Ivo: “Zelena, is that you?” Zelena: “Yes. (Walks toward him, removing her hat:) There's something I need to tell you. It's about your children.” Ivo: “Don't worry. I already know. They told me themselves.” (Hansel and Gretel enter the room.) Gretel: “We escaped.” Zelena: “Oh, thank goodness. I thought you were child stew.” Hansel: “No, we're alive. No thanks to you.” Ivo: “No more lies, Zelena. How could you accept my hospitality when you knew my children were being held captive and tormented?” Zelena: “No, it's not like that. I was weak. But as soon as I was strong, I went back for them.” Ivo: “You could have told me.” Zelena: “If I had told you, you would have gone to that house and the witch would have killed you.” Ivo: “You watched me search for them every night!” Zelena: “Yes. I'm wicked. But I'm trying to be good.” Hansel: “There's no such thing as a good witch.” Zelena: “There could be. Please, Ivo, all my life, people have treated me rotten. You were the first person to see through the green. To see the real me. Here. (Holds up a vial:) I took the witch's sight for you. Just sprinkle this dust into your eyes, and your vision will be restored. You'll have a second chance. Please give me one, too.” Ivo: “No. (Shaking his head:) No, no. I don't need my sight to see who you truly are. You're a monster! Now go! Get out of my house!” Zelena: “Fine. You don't want to see me? You won't see anything.” (Zelena walks to the fireplace and throws the vial into the flames.) Hansel: (Grabbing a knife:) “You witch! You don't deserve to walk away from this!” Zelena: “Stupid child. I’m not walking away from anything. (Summons her broom:) Witches know how to make an exit.” (With a flick of her wrist, Zelena disappears in a cloud of green smoke.)

[allofmystudentsrunaway]

Doctor Who Coda 11x01:Bit of a day.

because what the hell i’m excited!! read on AO3 here

It had been a bit of a day, the doctor had to admit to himself? Herself? Themselves? Pronouns, not something they had to think about for a while, no matter it could wait. Probably, maybe? Brain fizzing, ignoring the hurt, did it hurt this much last time? Last time what? The thought frittered away into darkness.

There were people staring, peering through the dark, faces contorted, scared? scared humans? Maybe? but scared still. What was scaring them? Me? no their eyes were fixed on something past them, something that flashed and wriggled in the dark. A whisper, nothing more a suggestion, ‘rip out the wires, make the thing stop; easy done it before’.

“madame?”

“Why are you calling me madame?”

“cause you’re a woman”

“Sorry I forgot, half an hour ago I was a white haired scotsman,” pronouns sorted then, probably, would do for now. The police, probably? female human was talking, ‘what is it with humans and ranks?’ That was the Scotsman, another line of neurons shifted back into balance. ‘find the doctor’

“I’m calling you Jas, cause we are friends now,” that was how it worked wasn’t it? Being friends? she needed friends, she had been alone too long. No, not her those others, the echoes, they all whispered the same thing; ‘don’t be alone.’

Sleep, she had slept like this once before over, a very long time ago. Someone’s Mum had watched over her then too. She woke abruptly, “ I’m not finished!” Deja vu? She had experienced it before, but to a time traveller that was not necessarily a good thing. That’s right, time traveller, that was her, ‘I travel.’ nearly there, she could feel it the future reaching out to her.

Sonic, she needed a sonic. Was that the name?. Didn’t matter, people were dying and her friends were looking at her for help. Build one? She could do that, easy peasy, lemon squeezy. She shook her head, suddenly tasting pears. Oh pears, was anything so truly foul?. ‘Not now.’

“If theres one thing I am certain of if people need help I never refuse, this is going to be fun!” it was fun in a way, as the memories unwound in her mind. Fighting Robin hood with a spoon, freezing slithereen with a fire extinguisher and the  primods too, memories. Not her’s, theirs, but also her’s it was weird, ‘who am I?’

Big scary supercooled alien, with a face full of teeth, more memories. Ice warriors? No, similar though. ‘Earth is defended, this shall not happened’ a chorus in her head, an echo twirled its bowtie at her and smiled. ‘I could never shut them up either.’

“do you have a plan?” Jas and Ryan looking at her, wanting to know she had any idea what she was doing, which of course she did, sort of.

“nearly, nearly” fingersnap, where did that come from? That was new. New was good, ‘shut-up you lot, I’m trying to think’. Staring up as Carl was dragged away from her, pleading for his life. Jumping, trusting herself, realising that her legs were shorter. Finding the words, hoping Tim Shaw would listen, “we are all capable of the most incredible change, we can evolve whilst still staying true to who we are. We can honour who we have been and choose who we want to be next, now’s your chance, how about it?”

“who are you?”

“I’m glad you asked that again, bit of adrenaline, dash of outrage and a hint of panic; knitted my brain back together.” she took a few steps forward, certainty hardening, no second chances, “I know exactly who I am. I’m the doctor, sorting out fair play throughout the universe. Now please, get off this planet. While you still have a choice”

“I choose to win.”They always make the wrong choice, but then so do humans.

Grace, gone like so many others, like everyone. The Doctor could feel the pain of her other-selves, trying to drag her in.

“Have you got family?”

“I lost them long ago.”Susan smiling at her, Sarah Jane, Peri, Rose, Amy, Rory and River. But there was the lesson, the one she had failed to learn, nobody is ever really gone.

“how do you cope with that?” Ryan needing answers, needing something.

“I carry them with me, what they would have thought and said and done, make them a part of who I am. So even though they are gone from the world, they are never gone from me.” A lesson learned, more than one and a universe of possibility. ‘bit of a day indeed,’ Now if she could just save them all from the vacuum of space, it might even turn out to be a good day.

[robinhoodrevisited]

The Morning After

Sherwood Forest. By The River. Morning. (It is the morning after the night before. The gang have scattered, unable to return to their camp lest the newly appointed Sheriff capture them. By all accounts, being outlaws after all, sleeping rough shouldn't be something new to Hood's gang. However the experience is less familiar to Lady Marian who had joined Robin's gang sometime after the outlaws' camp had been skillfully erected by Will Scarlett. Sure, she had spent a few nights under the stars with Robin but that was different. They had had their bedrolls with them for one thing. Last night, as the bitter cold of the evening air had made its presence felt, Marian had no blanket or cloak with which to warm herself. She did not feel the cold now though, she mused in her half conscious slumber. It was with this thought then that she resigned herself to further examine her current surroundings and slowly open her eyes for the first time. It was morning, that much she could tell, as the air was still wet with dew. As yet more senses came slowly back to her, she could hear footsteps approaching and tried to sit up. Finding that she could not, Marian realised for the first time that there was an arm draped around her shoulders and that the warm pillow beneath her head was, in fact, not a pillow at all. Marian turned and craned her neck to see just whom she had used as a bed for the night. Marian gasped as she observed Guy of Gisborne's sleeping form. Her slight exhalation along with her movements merely caused Gisborne, still snoring lightly, to wrap his arm around her more tightly. Unfortunately, just as Marian collapsed once more upon Gisborne's chest, Robin arrived.) Robin: (Taking in the scene:) "Well, isn't this cosy?" Marian: (Wriggling free of Gisborne's embrace:) "Robin, this is not what it looks like." Robin: "Oh really?" Gisborne: (Eyes still closed:) "No, it's exactly what it looks like." (Robin glares at Gisborne who slowly opens his eyes.) Marian: (To Gisborne:) "How long have you been awake?" Gisborne: (Smirks:) "Long enough to know that I was right." Marian: (Confused:) "Right about what?" Gisborne: "That waking up with you in my arms would feel like heaven on earth." (Marian, taken aback by this, is at a loss for words as Robin takes a step forward.) Robin: "Alright, Gisborne. On your feet." Marian: "Robin, stop this." Gisborne: (Slowly getting up:) "What's the matter, Locksley? Jealous?" Marian: "Guy, stop it. Robin, nothing happened I swear." Robin: "You still spent the night in his embrace though, didn't you?" Marian: "Because it was freezing! (Turning to Gisborne:) Guy, tell him." Gisborne: (Folding his arms:) "I do not recall the specifics. But yes, (to Robin:) I held her all night long." (Robin fumes at Gisborne's goading as Allan stretches and wanders into the clearing.) Marian: "Allan will tell you. He was with us all night." Robin: "I'll just bet he was. (To Allan:) Go on then, Allan, tell me. (Pointing at Gisborne:) Lie for your master. Once a traitor, always a traitor." Allan: "Oi, that's a bit harsh." Robin: "It's true though, isn't it eh?" Allan: (Frowning:) "Oh, shut up. The only truth around here is that you don't trust anyone." Robin: "And I wonder why that is." Allan: "Give it a rest. I've made my mistakes and I've owned up to them. (Pointing at him:) I saved your life back in Nettlestone and you still treat me like dirt. What else do I have to do to prove myself to you?" Robin: (Through gritted teeth:) "Just tell me the truth. What happened last night between these two." Allan: (Shrugging this off:) "Ask her yourself, has Marian ever lied to you?" 

(As the rest of the gang arrive, having heard the shouting, Robin turns and takes a few deep breaths before asking Marian once again.) Robin: "Well?" (As Much, Little John, Djaq & Will gather around.) Marian: (Calmly:) "The girl, Meg, the one you saved from being executed? She died last night. She was killed trying to save Guy's life. (Indicating Guy and Allan:) The three of us spent the night burying her." Much: (Scoffs:) "Burying a corpse in the forest? That's definitely a euphemism." Little John: (Hissing:) "Shut up, Much." Marian: (Glares at Much, to Robin:) "Her grave is just through those trees. (Robin doesn't take his eyes from Gisborne who has his gaze averted, lost in his thoughts.) We were exhausted, Robin. As soon as it was done, we fell asleep." Robin: (To Allan:) "So why were you coming from over there? Didn't want to disturb them?" Allan: "I was looking for food! I haven't eaten since yesterday." Much: (Stepping up:) "Yeah, well it's because of your bloomin' girlfriend that we can't go back to the camp and eat. (Wistfully:) My poor kitchen. Isabella's men have probably destroyed it all by now.” Will: (Reaching into his bag:) "Will you stop thinking about food for once in your life?" (Will throws an apple at Much and starts handing out more to the others.) Allan: "Where'd you get all this from?" Will: "Djaq and I went back to the camp last night. We grabbed what we could and...well." Djaq: "There was no sign of the Sheriff's men so..." Much: "Oh, I see. You two spent the night tucked away at camp whilst I slept up a flippin' tree!" (As the gang begin to argue amongst themselves, Robin draws his sword.) Robin: "Quiet, the lot of you! (As everyone stops their squabbling:) The fact remains that the camp is compromised. It might not be today but soon Isabella will lead her men there. (Pointing his sword at Gisborne.) And I say we leave her a parting gift." Marian: "Robin, what are you-" Robin: "Isabella took Vaisey's title just as Gisborne took mine. The whole family's rotten to the core and whether he admits it or not one day he's going to try and take you away from me." Marian: (Stepping between Robin and Gisborne:) "Robin, stop this. You're tired, you're angry and you're not thinking straight." Robin: "Oh, I've had time to think. And I've made up my mind." Gisborne: (As Robin advances:) "So what, going to attack an unarmed man, Locksley? Show all your friends what kind of a man you really are?" Allan: (Reaching under his cloak:) "Guy! (Gisborne turns and Allan tosses Gisborne his sword:) Collected it from the dungeons whilst I was there." Robin: "There you go, Gisborne. No excuses."

(As Robin and Gisborne begin to circle each other Marian maintains her position between them.) Marian: (Throwing her hands up:) "All right, you want to do this? You want to fight like a pair of schoolboys, fine. But you will not use weapons, do you hear me?" (Marian looks to each man in turn. Gisborne gives a slight nod to her as Robin tosses his sword down in answer.) Gisborne: (Lowering his sword slowly:) "How do I know you haven't got a knife stashed somewhere on you?" Robin: (Removing his quiver from his back:) "Oh, I won't need a knife." (Gisborne charges Robin and wrestles him to the ground. They roll over twice and the gang look on amazed as the two men fight each other. Marian bends down and collects each man’s sword just in case either man decides not to honour the rules of their combat. The two men scuffle in the dirt as Much runs to break things up. He is metres away from them when they both roll quickly over the edge of the steep slope, fighting all the way into the ravine.)

Powis Castle. Great Hall. Wales. (Clarke stands quietly to the side of the room as Titus informs the Commander of Queen Nia's death.) Titus: "She was found by her guards slumped back in her chair, both wrists slit." Lexa: "That doesn't make any sense, Nia wasn't suicidal." Titus: "Her people don't think so either. Whomever is responsible for this, they will be found. You have my word." Lexa: (Glances at Clarke, to Titus:) "Leave us." (Titus nods and leaves the room Lexa nods to the guard who also turns and exits the hall.) Lexa: (Her back turned to Clarke:) "Please tell me you had no part in this." Clarke: "If you wish me to lie to you, I will." Lexa: (Shakes her head:) "Damnit, Clarke. What if you had been caught? You didn’t need to do this. I had a plan."

Clarke: "What, to die and let Nia become Commander? You were playing right into her hands." Lexa: (Turning to face her:) "Only if I had lost. (Takes a breath:) I know you were just trying to help, Clarke. But now there will be consequences." Clarke: "I couldn't just let Roan kill you." Lexa: "If that were to have been my fate then you would've had no choice. You're driven to fix everything for everyone but you cannot fix this. I have to decide what to do next and you have to let me." (Clarke watches her a moment then nods. Lexa straightens her shoulders, walks past Clarke and leaves the hall.)

Somewhere In The Woods…The Fight Continues. (Gisborne runs down and swipes a punch, but Robin ducks and successfully returns with a left hook, sending Gisborne reeling. Gisborne attempts another punch, but Robin ducks again, then connects with his right fist. Gisborne comes back at him swinging. Robin backs away from him and Gisborne advances, then swings overhand and Robin grabs his arm and pulls him into a tree. Robin resets his feet and is ready when Gisborne turns and tries another punch. Meanwhile, as this is going on, the gang watch from above.) Little John: (Frowning as he watches the melee below:) “How much longer do you think they can go on like this?” Djaq: “John, this is Gisborne and Robin. They’re just getting started.” Allan: (Stood beside Will, winces as a particularly nasty strike connects with Robin’s midsection.) “Nice one, Gis.” Will: “Oi! Who’s side are you on exactly?” Allan: “Oh come on, this is great stuff!” Will: (Shaking his head:) “You’re sick in the head, you know that.” Allan: (Smirking:) “Maybe. Look, this is a good thing, it’ll get it out of their systems a bit. And we’ll stop it before anyone really gets hurt.” Will: (Glances at Allan, then shouts down:) “Come on, Robin. Hit him!” (Robin grabs his arm again with his left hand and swings a punch with his right into Gisborne’s stomach, then immediately follows with an uppercut to his jaw and a punch with his left fist. Gisborne goes down and rolls down the hill a bit. Robin follows, but stumbles as he stops and Gisborne backslaps him as he gets up, then punches him in the face, knees him in the stomach and throws him into the trunk of a large tree. Gisborne pulls Robin upright by his shirt and punches him in the stomach, then throws him downhill. Robin rolls to the bottom of the hollow and Gisborne follows, picks him up, punches him in the gut, then the face.) Much: (Stood with Marian.) “You see this? You see what you’ve done?” Marian: “Oh will you shut up, Much!” (Marian looks on concerned for both men as the fight continues below them. Meanwhile Will and Allan are talking about why the fight is happening.) Allan: “Nah, I don’t think so. I mean yeah, Giz and Marian have been making eyes at each other for ages but, if anything had happened before now I’d’ve known.” Djaq: “And why are you so special?” Allan: “You know exactly what makes me special, darlin’. (He winks and Djaq laughs. Will frowns and returns his attention to the fight.) Well Marian would’ve told Isabella wouldn’t she? And of course, she’d’ve told me.” (Smiles to himself.) Djaq: “Don’t mention that snake’s name around me. She’s in league with Prince John.” (Robin reaches back and his right fist lands solidly on Gisborne’s jaw. Gisborne stands back up with a smile and Robin answers with his left fist. He swings again, but Gisborne catches his arm and pushes him backwards into a tree. Robin pushes Gisborne’s arms down, shoves his shoulders back and connects with a left hook. Gisborne falls to his knees.) Robin: "Give it up, Gisborne. Marian and I are to be married.” Gisborne: (Frowning a moment:) “Really? Have you set a date? No, let me guess…when the King returns?” Robin: “This is different, I wasn’t threatening to have her killed if she declined.” Gisborne: (Smirking:) “I’ve learned from my mistakes, Hood. Marian has changed me.” Robin: “You’re lying to yourself, Gisborne. Scum like you never change, you’ll always put your ambition before others.” Gisborne: “With her by my side…a man can change his stars.” Robin: (Roars:) “She’s to be my wife!” (Gisborne lunges and manages to pin Robin beneath him. Raining down punches, Gisborne hears a horse neigh. Looking behind him, his faces falls as he sees Isabella on a horse with several guards behind her.) Gisborne: (Mutters:) “Of all the people...” (Isabella spots them.) Isabella: “Seize them!”

[robbieinterviews]

WILL SMITH AND MARGOT ROBBIE TALK FOCUS: “IT’S SO MANY DIFFERENT KINDS OF MOVIE”, 2015

On the impetus behind making Focus:

Will Smith: I love the work of the directors John [Requa] and Glen [Ficarra]. They did Crazy Stupid Love and I love that film. When I read Focus it was so interesting because it’s so many different kinds of movie. They completely ignore genre. So it’s a heist film but then it will be a bizarre comedy for a while and then it’s really serious and there is great action. And then there’s a wonderful love story in the centre of the film, so I just love how many different styles and flavours they would demand of the actors. We would be in scenes sometimes and we would be like: “This is serious right?” and they’d be like: “Yeah, but have fun with it”, and we would just get to go through so many ranges of the spectrum.

Margot Robbie: They [write great female characters], and like Will said at the heart of it was a love story, so there was lot to do for Jess in that sense because halfway through she’s a woman scorned and then she transforms after that, so they develop it really well. It’s really nice to have a character that has one starting point and is a totally different person by the end of the film. It’s kind of nice to play with that, so I was lucky.

On the atmosphere on set:

Smith: The thing about Margot is that she is absolutely certain of who she wants to be and what she wants to do – but she’s absolutely certain of who she wants you to be and what she wants you to do too! So that was fun in a scene where she’d say: “No, do it like this” and I’d be like: “I’ve done a couple of movies Margot! I have some ideas too!” [Laughs]

What’s great is that she is right most of the time which is fantastic. 90% of the time if something doesn’t feel right to her in a scene it’s correct. But I’m a man I got to go against it anyway [laughs]. But her instincts are really brilliant. She can’t always say why it doesn’t feel right, and she’ll say: “Oh just do it the way I said” so I learnt to do that. But it was really fun to work with someone with that level of instincts are so different to my own.

On the improvisation in the film:

Robbie: We improvised quite a bit, which is surprising as there are so many plot points we had to hit in each scene, or hit to a certain degree or hide to a certain degree. It shouldn’t have left much room for improv but the guys really encouraged it. The end scene, for example, was quite dramatic but there were takes where we were in hysterics.

Smith: What they [the directors] do that’s fantastic is they create a set where everyone is involved. So they get what they want and you’re rolling. They’ll let anyone yell out a line and if it’s funny they’ll be like: “Margot, say that!” or “Will that’s funny, say that!” It was a little awkward for me in the love scenes like: “Will put your leg up, put your leg up!” [Laughs]

On learning the tricks used in the film:

Robbie: It’s a lot harder than it looks. The more you understand about it the easier it gets. The more you look into the psychological side of it the more the physical side makes sense. To begin with you can’t believe that you could steal something in plain sight because you’re like: “They will catch me, there’s no way I’m gonna try that”. When Apollo Robins (an advisor on the film) explains distractions and things like that it makes the physical side of things a lot easier.

Smith: The psychological side for me, the human side, you just can’t imagine that the human brain is that feeble. We think that we’re aware and we’re paying attention and we think that we’re on top of things but we have such huge blind spots.

Smith and Robbie on their chemistry:

Robbie: We’ve said it a couple of times, it was something neither of us were really expecting but for some reason when we walked into the room we just really got along and that continued through the shoot, and it made every scene exciting and fun. It’s not something you can manufacture, so it wasn’t forced or planned. It just existed already which was handy.

Smith: When Margot came to read for the role she didn’t think that there was any chance she was gonna get it because of how different we are.

Robbie: And the long list of actresses I was up against. It was a little bit intimidating.

Smith: “I’m 46 and Margot was 23 when we were filming, I’m from Philly and she’s from Australia, and then there’s obvious genetic differences [laughs]. But for some reason it just worked perfectly. We see it on screen, none of those questions come up. It’s like a wonderful puzzle and it works very well.

Robbie on her gamble of leaving Australia to go to Hollywood, and her upcoming Tina Fey movie:

Robbie: It didn’t feel like a gamble at the time, it felt like the only way to keep moving forward so it just felt like the next logical step. A big one for sure, and definitely terrifying, but I did a lot of pre-planning and saved all my money preparing for up to three years of unemployment which it didn’t turn out to be.

We’re currently filming the untitled Tina Fey film with the writer-directors of Focus, so it’s really nice to be working with them again and the same crew members.

Robbie on Smith or DiCaprio:

Smith: That’s a good question. Your honour, will you please make the witness answer the question? [laughs]

Robbie: Either way I will get in trouble!

They both have extremely huge profiles [laughs], but despite that, when they both walk on to set they’re extremely professional they’re so courteous to everyone on set and it just goes to show that if someone in their position can behave that way and be so decent, then no-one can be a dick on set.

On re-teaming for Suicide Squad:

Robbie: We’re really looking forward to it. We don’t know what the relationship is going to be yet. [The script] is ever-changing.

Smith: The way [director] David Ayer works is all images, all ideas, and he holds the screenplay, and he keeps sending you things about your character, he just wants you to be prepared for anything.

Robbie: I think we’re going to be allies for sure.

Smith: We’re definitely allies.

Robbie: We’re not being secretive, we just actually don’t know.

Smith: He only sends you your character stuff so you don’t know what’s going on with the other characters. I think he wants it to come alive on set.

On why con men have the audience’s sympathies in films:

Robbie: It’s kind of easy to find empathy with the protagonists of the story because you’re hearing and seeing everything from their perspective. I think people have a particular fascination with con and heist films because there is something a little dangerous about it, and perhaps it’s our way of living vicariously through someone else.

Smith: I think it’s also the idea, in these films, if you’re going to steal something, you’re stealing something from someone who has a lot, and most times it’s someone who would be unwilling to share, so I think deep inside of all of us everyone kinda feels the Robin Hood feeling and you love it when someone gets their comeuppance.

[swanqueeneverafter]

After The Sunset, Pt.15

Enchanted Forest. Present. Night. (A hooded figure stands at the bottom of Alice's restored tower. A moment later, a rope is lowered from the window and the hooded figure begins to climb.) Enchanted Forest. Past. (Reaching the top of the tower, Will Scarlett clings to the windowsill, gasping for breath.) Gothel: "Hello, Will." Will: (Panting:) "Gothel, what are you doing here?" Gothel: "Checking in on my investment. Someone has to and, after all, Alice has been so lonely." Will: (Looks over to see Alice cowering behind a chair:) "You heartless witch. You can release her anytime, you just get off on our suffering." Gothel: "Suffering is an essential part of life's cruel journey. Hopefully, once I'm done with your sister, her days of suffering will end and Alice's true power will be revealed." Will: "You're trying to turn her into one of your coven. Well it won't work, Alice is nothing like you." Gothel: "We'll see who's right, in time. (Glancing at the window frame:) You know, I think I need to tighten this tower's security. If you can climb this tower after the curse I've put on your heart, practically anyone could get in here. Time to change that." Will: "I won't let you keep me from seeing my sister, no matter what you do. Alice, I will get you out of here, I promise." Gothel: (Coldly:) "Say goodbye to your brother, Alice. (Alice screams and runs towards Will just as Gothel enacts a protection around the window, creating an invisible barrier. As Will and Alice attempt to touch, they find themselves unable, now separated by the barrier. Looking pleased with herself:) Hm. That’ll do." (Gothel leaves the tower in a cloud of smoke while Alice claws at the barrier, attempting to reach her brother and the outside world.) Enchanted Forest. Present. Alice's Restored Tower. (The hooded figure swings their legs over the windowsill and stands inside the tower. Dropping her hood and removing her gloves, Emma takes a look around the homely living area.) Emma: (Impressed:) "Not bad, I could live here." Regina: (Reclined on a chair by the fire, chuckles:) "It'll do for tonight." Emma: "Hey, it beats making camp outside." Regina: "I'm not sure Alice would agree with you on that." Emma: (Considers:) "I suppose not. You know, I could've just closed my eyes while you made this place cosy. Why did I have to wait at the bottom?" Regina: "Oh, please. You forget I know you, Emma. You've been wanting to climb this tower since you heard about it. I know Rapunzel is your favourite fairytale." Emma: (Smiles, approaching:) "Technically, you were supposed to let me climb up your hair." Regina: (Grins as Emma straddles her lap:) "Well you made quick time, even with the rope." Emma: "True. But I do so love it when you let your hair down for me." (Regina murmurs her agreement as Emma leans in for a well earned kiss.)

Enchanted Forest. Alice's Cottage. (Meanwhile, Alice stands admiring her new bracelet in the mirror.) Alice: (To her stuffed toy:) "What do you think, Mr. Rabbit? Do you like my bracelet? Robin gave it to me, and I don't plan to ever take it off." Wonderland. Past. (Drizella stands in the middle of the refugee camp. Tiana has her sword drawn, ready for anything.) Drizella: “Such worried faces. No need to be. I'm only here to deliver a message. Well, more accurately, a prophecy. All your lives as you know them will end.” Tiana: “Perhaps you misread the prophecy, because you missed the part where we defeat you. (When Drizella raises her hands to use magic:) Drizella, I wouldn't. Look down.” (Looking down, Drizella sees that she is slowly turning to stone.) Drizella: “This is blood magic. How is this possible?” Rapunzel: (Exiting a tent:) “With a spatter of my blood, of course. I simply can't have you running around with Gothel of all people, dear.” Drizella: “This changes nothing. I'll be back, and you'll learn what true suffering is.” Rapunzel: (Before Drizella turns to stone completely:) “I spent so much time focused on one lost daughter that I didn't see the one who was with me all of this time.” Drizella: “You never loved me like you loved Ana!” Rapunzel: “No, that’s not true. I'm so sorry I made you feel that. (Drizella turns to stone:) I will make it up to you, I will make this right. I promise.”

Enchanted Forest. Past. Infinite Forest. (Anna runs back towards the Apprentice’s cabin, she enters without knocking, hastily searching for the Apprentice.) Anna: (Looking around frantically:) “He's got to be here somewhere.” Rumplestiltskin: (Appears:) “Careful you don't step on it!” Anna: (Jumps and sighs:) “We have to find him. You have to change him back.” Rumplestiltskin: “Oh, but I can't, dearie.” Anna: (Stops looking and turns to Rumplestiltskin:) “Why?” Rumplestiltskin: “Because I don't want to. He was protecting something that I need.” Anna: “You were the one who poisoned him. (Rumplestiltskin giggles:) Then why did you send me here with an antidote if you wanted to turn him into a mouse?” Rumplestiltskin: “It was never about him. It was always about you.” Anna: “It was all a test?” Rumplestiltskin: “And one you performed admirably. You see, he's but the first line of defense. And what he protects is also guarded by an enchantment... a spell that can only be broken by someone who has been tempted by their inner darkness and turned away from it, someone just like you. I knew you wouldn't do it. I knew you'd see the best in the old man.” Anna: “I never faced my inner darkness.” Rumplestiltskin: “What?” Anna: “As soon as I met the old man, I knew what I had to do. I could never hurt someone to get what I want. Elsa wouldn't want me to. So I was never even tempted by that inner darkness you speak of. In fact, I don't even think I have one. I'm, unlike you, nice.” Rumplestiltskin: “Well, then, dearie, I hope you're gonna enjoy spending the rest of your life locked up in my tower. It was part of our deal.” (He produces the contract and holds it out in front of Anna.) Anna: “But I have to get back to Elsa.” Rumplestiltskin: “Then you should never have left home in the first place. Imagine the guilt she will feel when you don't return home from your journey... a journey you only took because of her. She will finally become that monster everyone fears she is. (He gasps in a mocking manner:) I suppose the wedding's off.” Anna: (Grabs a sword from the wall:) “No! Rip it up. Rip up the contract now!” Rumplestiltskin: “Well, I can't do that, dearie. No, I'm afraid the only way for you to escape your fate is by killing... Me. And we both know... You're just... Too... Nice. (Anna presses the sword against his chest:) Do it. Go on. (Begins taunting her:) Right through me. Do it. Do it. Do it! Do it! Do it! (Anna whimpers and drops the sword, falling to her knees:) You may never have considered dosing the old man... but you just thought about killing me. (The Dark One holds his dagger under Anna’s face and giggles when a tear drops onto the blade:) And now I have exactly what I need... the tear of someone who has faced their inner darkness and turned away. The love for your sister was all I needed.” Anna: “I should have known. I should have known the moment I met you... you're a monster. You take the most precious thing in this world... Love... and turn it into a weapon.” Rumplestiltskin: “Love is a weapon, dearie. Always has been. It's just...So few people know how to wield it.”

(Rumplestiltskin enters the Apprentice’s vault, walking towards the magic box. Waving the dagger over the box, he manages to open it, revealing the Sorcerer’s hat.) Enchanted Forest. Before The Dark Curse. Night. (Having failed to kill the Queen of Hearts on the order of her daughter, Hook extends his hand to Cora as she steps out of the Mad Hatter's hat.) Cora: "Oh, thank you dear." Hook: "Now what, Your Majesty?" Cora: "We head for my daughter's mausoleum of course. I can't rip her heart out from here now, can I?" Hook: "Such a delightful family." Lancelot: "Halt. Who goes there?" Hook: "Don't mind us, mate, we're only passing by." Lancelot: "You're trespassing on royal grounds." Cora: (Stepping forward:) "What is your name, soldier?" Lancelot: "Lancelot. I'm going to have to ask both of you to leave this place." Hook: (Spreading his arms wide:) "But we only just got here. Like I said, we're just passing through." Cora: (Intrigued:) "Lancelot. I've heard your name before. You were instrumental in my daughter's defeat at the hands of Snow White and Prince Charming. (Chuckles:) I heard of your betrayal from King George personally." Lancelot: "King George had no honour. He defeated himself." Cora: "Well, be that as it may, you helped Snow White finally defeat the Evil Queen. You're sure to be an overnight legend. I can certainly use that to my advantage." Lancelot: (Confused:) "Use to your advantage? I'm sorry, but I don't understand." (Waving her hand, Cora vanishes Lancelot in a cloud of smoke.) Hook: "What did you do to him?" Cora: (Casually:) "I sent him to the Infinite Forest. A man like that could be useful to me, but we don't need him messing up our plans right now." Hook: "Whatever you say, Milady, shall we?" (Before they can take more than a few steps however, a portal opens up behind them and Tiana exits.) Cora: (Smiles:) "Tiana. How nice to see you, what on earth are you doing in this realm?" Tiana: (Stalking towards her:) "I followed you from Wonderland. I came to make sure you never return." Cora: "Is that so? And how were you thinking of doing such a thing?" Tiana: "With this." (Tiana holds up her now glowing hand, ready to rip out Cora's heart, when the older woman freezes her in place.) Cora: "Now really, is everyone trying to steal my heart? It's starting to become such a bore." (Cora waves her hand once more and Tiana disappears in her own cloud of smoke.) Hook: "Let me guess, the Infinite Forest?" Cora: (Turns and continues walking:) "At least now Lancelot will have some company. Come Captain, my daughter awaits."

Enchanted Forest. Present. The Tower. (Regina remains seated in the chair by the fireplace watching Emma as she looks at the various cooking utensils in the kitchen.) Regina: "Thinking of cooking something?" Emma: (Smiling:) "Maybe. Relax, (Putting the skillet back down:) neither of us want that." Regina: "I happen to enjoy your cooking." Emma: (Scoffs:) "Liar." Regina: (Frowns slightly:) "Is everything all right, Emma? You look a little... uneasy." Emma: "I'm fine. (At Regina's look:) Okay, I may have something on my mind. So, yes, you might know me after all." Regina: (Sitting forward:) "What is it?" Emma: "I guess I wanted to know a little bit more about you... the other you." Regina: (Helpfully:) "The 'evil' me?" Emma: "Maybe, but not the murder and razing villages part." Regina: "Well what part of my past would you like to hear about?" Emma: (Cautiously:) "The... Queen's privileges part?" Regina: (Stares at Emma a moment before chuckling:) "Emma, you don't really think I used to pick random villagers off the streets to have sex with? It was part of our game." Emma: "Yeah, I know that, but it's not out of the realm of possibility is it? I mean, if you'd wanted to you could have easily-" Regina: "Chosen someone? (Looks at the fireplace:) Why yes, I suppose I could." Emma: "But you never did? (Regina shakes her head:) Not even for companionship?" Regina: "Those were dark times for me. Companionship was way down on my list of priorities back then." Emma: "Regina, you are one of, if not the most passionate person I know. Are you telling me in all those years, your only urges were homicidal ones?" Regina: (Laughing:) "Of course not. But I could never allow myself to sleep with one of my subjects. For one thing, word would've gotten out that I was trolling villages looking for a lover, and for another-" Emma: "You'd have a line of people from here to Agrabah volunteering for the job." Regina: (Smirks:) "My enemies would've sent mercenaries to kill me at my most vulnerable." Emma: (Shrugs:) "I'm positive one night with you would change their minds." Regina: "Well that aside, the answer is no. I never took a lover during that time. Whatever carnal desires I had, I channeled then into seeking my vengeance. (Regina watches her wife closely as Emma nods, seemingly satisfied with this answer:) Of course, that's not to say there were never moments..." Emma: (Smiles:) "I knew it. And...?" Regina: (Coyly:) "And... I did what any Queen would do. I took matters into my own hands." (Regina smiles with satisfaction as the full implication of her words wash over Emma.) Enchanted Forest. Past. (Anna is still locked in the Apprentice’s house, when Rumplestiltskin returns carrying the magic box, shutting the doors behind him. Anna quickly stands.) Anna: “I helped you get what you wanted, so give me what you promised. Tell me about my parents.” Rumplestiltskin: “Well, dearie, the King and Queen of Arendelle landed on my doorstep with an itsy-bitsy problem... your sister. They wanted something to take away her powers... Forever.” Anna: “My parents loved Elsa.” Rumplestiltskin: “Sounded more to me like they feared her. It's a thin line and, oh, so easy to cross. You must have known. They always wished she had been born a little bit more... Normal.” Anna: “Did they find what they were looking for?” Rumplestiltskin: “I'm afraid not. No one could lay their hands on that kind of magic... Until now.” Anna: “So, that's what the box does.” Rumplestiltskin: “Not the box, what's inside... a hat, crafted thousands of years ago by a sorcerer for one purpose... to steal magical power... and guarded all these years by his apprentice.” Anna: “What are you going to do with it?” Rumplestiltskin: “When the hat has collected all its ill-gotten power and is fully charged, I will be unstoppable.” Anna: “I thought the Dark One was already unstoppable.” Rumplestiltskin: “There are limits, however small.” Anna: “No. You can't. That mouse... that apprentice... he dedicated his life to keeping it out of the hands of people like you.” Rumplestiltskin: “Too bad he's not here to stop me.” Anna: “What if he is?” (Anna looks up at the Apprentice, who is now a mouse, and watches as he jumps down and lands on Rumplestiltskin’s hand, biting him.) Rumplestiltskin: “Aah! Aah!” (From the pain of his bite, Rumplestiltskin drops the dagger.) Anna: (Quickly picks it up and points the dagger at him:) “Don't come any closer! (Looks confused when Rumplestiltskin obeys her:) Wait... You're not coming any closer just because I told you not to? (Looks down at the dagger:) I get it. As long as I have this wavy knife, you have to do as I say, don't you?” Rumplestiltskin: “Yes. That's how it works.” Anna: “Is that one of the limits you spoke of? Is that why you want the hat... to free yourself from the control of this dagger? Answer me.” Rumplestiltskin: “To be free of the control and to keep my power. Yes.” Anna: “Yeah, I can't let you walk out of here with that. So, please, give me the box.” (Rumplestiltskin slowly walks forward and hands Anna the box.)

Rumplestiltskin: “Remember, dearie, you can't keep hold of that dagger forever, and you don't want to be on the other end of it when I get it back.” Anna: “Then I command you send me and this box home to Arendelle.” Rumplestiltskin: “If I must.” Anna: “Wait. And, also, you can never hurt me. Or my sister. And you have to turn the mouse back into a man. Okay. Now I'm ready.” (Rumplestiltskin obeys her, and sends Anna back to Arendelle. Once his dagger lands on the ground, he picks it up and screams in frustration when realizes he’s lost the box.) The Enchanted Forest. Past. As The Dark Curse Hits. (The Curse begins to spread over the land. Cora and Hook watch as it approaches. Cora then strikes the ground with her staff causing a magical barrier to appear over them covering a portion of the land. Those now protected by Cora’s barrier include Tiana and Lancelot, both navigating the Infinite Forest, and Will Scarlett who watches the curse spread from the foot of Alice’s tower.) Hook: (Despondently, under his breath:) “Mal. (Turning to Cora, agitated:) Wouldn't it have been easier to reconcile with your daughter before her curse destroys the land?” Cora: “Regina doesn't need me – not now, not when she thinks she's about to win. But I still have a place in her heart. And the curse won't last forever. It will end. In twenty-eight years, there will be a Savior. And she'll break it.” Hook: “Twenty-eight years!” Cora: “You won't even notice. You'll be frozen, like all those in this corner of the land. But when the curse ends, our quest will resume. And when it does, Regina will truly have lost everything. And then she'll need me. That's when we'll go to this new land. You'll get your revenge. And me, I'll… help her pick up the pieces.”

Enchanted Forest. Present. The Tower, Continued. (Emma stares into the fireplace before turning to Regina.) Emma: "All right, so you may not have had villagers warming your bed. But you can't tell me there was no one. What about Maleficent?" Regina: (Smiles:) "Ah. So we're finally going to talk about the elephant in the room. Or should that be dragon? What would you like to know?" Emma: "Clearly there's a history between you two. I just think, as your wife, I should know about it." Regina: "You have never wanted to talk about this." Emma: "Yeah, well... maybe now I'm a little curious." Regina: "Hm, funny. I was curious too. Very well... (Stands and walks towards Emma:) Maleficent and I... it was a long time ago and I was very young. I had only just started my lessons with Rumple. (Moves to stand behind her wife:) I was frustrated with his teachings and I wondered if there was someone else out there who could give me what I desired." (Regina kisses Emma’s collarbone.) Emma: (Leaning her head back against Regina’s shoulder:) "Mm. But I know about how you two met, I was more curious about how you two became-" Regina: "Lovers? (Chuckles:) We bonded over mutual interests. Mal was a woman who had achieved her revenge and yet was left clinging to the embers of her greatest victory. I suppose my drive or (Whispers the word into Emma’s ear:) passion, as you'd call it, helped reignite the flame that lay dormant inside the dragon. (Taking a moment to move the blonde hair aside, Regina nibbles briefly on Emma’s earlobe before continuing her tale:) Our time as lovers began the night we broke into Aurora's bedchamber. I was excited to finally see the light return to Mal’s eyes as she was rejuvenated by her latest triumph. Once back inside her fortress, we succumbed to what we were feeling and devoured each other. (Regina turns Emma’s face towards her and kisses her deeply, as her hands move to cup her wife’s breasts through her dress. Moving away, leaving Emma breathless:) Every time with Maleficent was fueled by our shared hatred of the world and what it had done to us.” Emma: (Taking a moment to steady herself:) "Well, whatever the reason, it sure sounds hot." Regina: (Smiles:) "I suppose you could say that. Although there never really was what you could call ‘emotion’ between us. Not anything like what you and I share. Passionate and fiery, yes, but ultimately, we both took it for what it was. (Moving back to her seat:) We were two lost souls, headed in different directions. Mal had allowed me to share in her revenge and yet I still hungered for my own. So that’s why I returned to Rumple, knowing that Maleficent couldn't be the one to help give me the vengeance I so desperately sought. (Sitting back down, she looks to her wife expectantly:) So, are you glad I told you?” Emma: (Shrugs:) "I figured it would be something like that between you two." Regina: (Nods:) "When you boil it down, it really was more of a mentor/student relationship. Maleficent may not have taught me much actual magic, but she did take me under her wing." Emma: (Thinks:) "You know, we are pretty similar. (Approaching the seated woman:) I mean, you taught me how to use my magic before we-" Regina: (Shaking her head:) "No. What we have is completely different." Emma: "Yeah? How do you figure?" Regina: "Because I was already in love with you before I ever taught you magic." Emma: (Smiles, leans closer:) "You were?" Regina: "Still am." Emma: (They kiss:) "Mm. I love you, too. (When Regina leans in for another kiss, Emma stops her with a finger placed on the older woman’s lips:) But, enough talk. (Offering her hand:) I think it’s time we let actions speak for themselves." (Regina takes her wife's hand and allows herself to be lead towards the bed.) Alice's Cottage. Continued. (While Alice continues to admire her bracelet in the mirror, a floorboard creaks and a figure enters through the door.) Alice: (Turning to face them:) "Hello? Who's there?" Stranger: “I'm searching for The Guardian. Are you her?" Alice: (Wary:) "Yeah. I mean, yes I am. The name’s Alice. Who wants to know?” Drizella: (Stepping into view:) "My name is Drizella. (Smiles:) You have no idea how long I've been searching for you."

[robinhoodrevisited]

Time To Go (pt.6)

(Birkley’s body is carried away by two soldiers. Edward’s body has yet to be moved. Marian comes running in from the direction of the castle and stops at the sight of him.) Marian: “Father? (Kneels at Edward’s side and shakes his shoulders.) Father? (In a crying panic) Father, wake up. Wake up, please wa— (Gisborne watches helplessly, sympathising with her.) Father, Father…What happened?! (Stands and grabs Gisborne’s arms.) What happened?! Tell me what happened!” Gisborne: “There were no witnesses! (Gisborne grabs Marian’s arms as she tries to push him away.) Marian, the Sheriff thinks that he was helping Hood—” Marian: (Roars, interrupting, speaking over his line:) “NO! (Shoves him back.) No! He wasn’t!” Gisborne: “—steal an important document.” Marian: (Kneels at Edward’s side.) “No, no. (Sobs over his chest.) I’m sorry. (Looking at his face:) I’m sorry.” Gisborne: “Marian.” Marian: “I’m so sorry. Father, I’m sorry.” (Sobs, her head on his chest.) Gisborne: “Marian.” Marian: “Can you just leave me alone?” (Kisses Edward’s chin.) Gisborne: (Bends down and puts his hands on Marian’s shoulders. Gently:) “Marian, come away.” (Marian shoves Gisborne back.) Marian: “Don’t you touch me! Don’t touch me!” (Marian runs off towards the castle. Gisborne follows. Isabella, who had been with Marian when Gisborne told her the news, slowly approaches, pushes back one of the sheets and takes in the tragic scene.)

Nottingham Castle. Interior corridor. Outside Marian’s chamber. (Marian is running to her room, Gisborne following.) Gisborne: “Stop! Wait! (Gisborne runs ahead to block the door.) Listen to me. This place may not be safe for you now.” Marian: “Why?” Gisborne: (Pulls out Marian’s jewelled knife.) “This is yours, I believe. Your father’s jailer was killed with it.” Marian: “I don’t care!” Gisborne: “But the Sheriff will care. And when he finds out that it was your dagger that killed his jailer, he will hang you.” Marian: (Shakes her head, tears falling. In denial:) “No.” Gisborne: (Steps forward.) “Let me look after you… (Marian looks up at him, wanting to be comforted. Gisborne gently grabs her shoulders.) … protect you. I’ve always cared about you, Marian. (He pulls her head into his chest.) My feelings for you… (He strokes her hair as she sobs.) I thought they’d gone away. But they haven’t. (Kisses her forehead.) They’re stronger than ever.” (He kisses her forehead again, then goes for her lips, but she pushes him away.) Marian: “No. No.” (Runs to her door.) Gisborne: (Turns around.) “Forgive me… that was inappropriate. But in time…” (Marian pushes open the door. Gisborne lays his head against the wall, angry at himself for pushing her too far, as she slams the door shut.)

Marian’s chamber. (Marian turns from the door and sees Robin leaning against the bedpost. She puts her hand over her mouth and nose, hardly daring to believe he’s here.) Robin: “I was with him when he died. (Shakes his head slightly. A long pause.) I’m sorry. (Marian takes a couple steps forward, then sinks to the floor and cries uncontrollably. Robin goes to her and embraces her.) Shh. Shh shh shh.” Marian: (Cries for a moment, then tries to stop.) “It—it’s my fault. (Robin sits back to face her.) I told him he was weak.” (Gently grasps the hair on the back of his head.) Robin: “He died a hero’s death.” Marian: (Sobs more, turning her head away.) “He didn’t.” Robin: “He got the pact, for England.” Marian: “He died believing he had a wilful daughter.” Robin: (Shakes his head.) “No. He asked me to give you a message. (Takes Marian’s hand.) "It’s good to dream.”

(Robin kisses Marian’s hand, then pulls her in for a hug. Marian tries not to sob.) Robin: “Come with me to the forest. (Robin releases the embrace and puts his hand behind Marian’s head.) I’ve a horse waiting. (Marian nods and Robin uses his thumb to wipe away a tear.) Come on.” (Robin pulls Marian to her feet. Robin ties a long chain of knotted sheets to an arrow, draws, and lets loose the arrow. It crashes through the yellow glass window at the top of the tower and gracefully arches to the ground, Robin takes Marian by the hand and leads her to the window.) Nottingham Town. (On the ground, Marian mounts the horse and sits behind Robin, putting her arms round his waist. Robin stares at her for a moment, as if he has to convince himself that she’s really coming, then they trot through the town, leaving the striped-fletched arrow hanging from the sheets at the base of the tower.)

Nottingham Castle. (The body of Edward is laid out on a table, Isabella is saying her goodbyes as Allan stands silently beside her. Gisborne stands with the Sheriff, torn between paying his respects to Edward and remaining strong in the Sheriff’s eyes. The Sheriff however is torn between his contempt for Edward and being mindful of Isabella’s feelings.) Sheriff: “Oh, very well - the old man can have a proper burial if it’ll stop you all moping! (He looks to the three of them in turn, his expression and tone softening when he addresses Isabella:) Once you have mourned your friend we must discuss the Hamleigh situation. (Isabella says nothing but nods slightly in acknowledgement.) Good, after the funeral then. (Turns and walks out of the room:) Gisborne will pay for it.” (Gisborne sighs, not so much at the cost, but the Sheriff’s flippant attitude. He takes one last look at Edward then follows the Sheriff out of the room. Isabella rises slowly from Edward’s side, losing her balance for a moment, Allan comes in to steady her.) Allan: “What Hamleigh situation?” Isabella: (Sighing:) “William Hamleigh’s army is growing by the day. He’s getting more powerful and the Sheriff - in Hamleigh’s eyes - has now failed him twice.” Allan: “They mean to take revenge?” Isabella: (Nods:) “The Hamleighs are obsessed with power and position. They’ve been after Shiring for years and now that Aliena has slipped through William’s fingers again, William still has no legal right to the lands.” Allan: “And they blame the Sheriff.” Isabella: “Yes, or they will as soon as word reaches them. With Regan Hamleigh at the Prince’s side at the Royal Court, the Sheriff’s standing is in jeopardy. If she convinces Prince John that her son can do a better job as Sheriff then Vaisey will be ousted, William will take his place and the Hamleighs will finally have what they’ve always wanted.” Allan: (Raising an eyebrow:) “I’m not being funny but this Hamleigh fella sounds a bit like Guy. Might not be a bad thing if he does-” Isabella: (Interrupting:) “We do not want William Hamleigh as Nottingham’s Sheriff, Allan. This is most definitely a case of ‘better the devil you know.’” Allan: “Yeah, alright. So what are you supposed to do about it?” Isabella: “I don’t know. But you can be sure the Sheriff won’t go down without a fight.” (Taking one last look at Edward, she turns and leaves the room with Allan supporting her.)

Sherwood Forest. Near the upper path. (Robin is officiating the wedding of Jack and Aliena as the gang and Marian look on. A garland of flowers has been strung along and round the trees. The men and Djaq each have a violet pinned on his chest. Aliena has colourful wild bouquet. Marian has a long stalk of white flowers and a couple violets.) Robin: “Do you, Jack, promise to protect and honour this woman as long as you both shall live?” Jack: “I do.” Robin: “Then I, as the rightful Lord of Locksley in the county of Nottingham, now pronounce you man and wife. You may kiss the bride.” (Jack and Aliena kiss eagerly as all laugh and applaud. Aliena hugs Little John and Djaq as Robin walks over to Marian, who is solemnly happy for them, fiddling with the flowers in her hand. She gives him a brief grim smile. He stands on the high ground next to her and kisses the top of her head. She closes her eyes and rests her head on his chest, and he holds her close as Aliena gives Will a peck on the cheek.) A Short While Later. (Little John holds the head of the white horse, which has yellow flowers decorating its reins and halter. Aliena sits on the horse with both feet to one side in front of her new husband. She shares a long meaningful look with Marian, who smiles despite her grief.) Jack: (Sincerely:) “Thank you.” (Jack holds his hand out to Robin, who grips it and shakes hands. Much hands Jack a gift. ) Much: “Toasting fork.” Jack: (Laughs and takes it.) “Thank you.” (Jack clicks to the horse. Little John lets go and the couple ride off as Will and Djaq throw white flower petals at them from baskets in their hands. Much, Robin and Marian clap and Little John waves them goodbye.) Much: “Good luck!” Robin: (After a moment:) “You did disarm the trap, didn’t you, Will?” (The trap gong rings. Will looks at Much, drops his basket and scrambles off after them. The gang follow, running.)