The small town of Storybrooke, Maine isn't known for much of anything. It's cobble stone sidewalks and small shops seem to change very little with the seasons. In spring, the town square was dotted with wild phlox and daffodils and the old faded watering troughs were filled with Pansies. In the fall, its oak, maple, apple, and chestnut trees were painted in shades of brown, red, and orange. In winter, it was a snow covered winter wonderland. Summer had it's daylilies and clusters of wild flowers.
It was summer when the tourists came to escape the heat of the big cities that the town came alive. Otherwise, only a few tourists would stop and admire its charm for a few days; then they would move on. Like any town it had a mix of rich families, working class families, and poor families that appeared to get along. The truth was quite different.
The Swan Family was no exception. On the outside they seem to be the perfect family. The patriarch of the family is one Ronald "Rumpelstiltskin" Swan. He is a tall man of normally quiet temperament with longish black hair and ruggedly handsome features. The mother Cora has reddish black hair and a comely appearance. Their children, Regina, who has dark hair like her father is a bright spirited girl; and her fraternal twin sister Emma, who is blond, is equally spirited and the typical tomboy. Henry like his father has dark hair and is quiet and introspective. All seems nice and normal.
However, Cora was unhappy. Oh, she loved her kids and husband but circumstances had taken her toil. The truth was that Cora once wanted wealth and power but in college her outlook on life changed. She currently had everything she wanted but it seems fate had other ideas. She was glad that her husband was content teaching English Literature at Storybrooke High. She only wished she had the same contentment. Looking in from the outside, life appeared good for the Swans.
It all changed one day when Ronnie returned from a PTA meeting at his school. What he found when he came home was his neighbor, Eva Blanchard, watching his children. He asked her where his wife had gone. Eva explained to him. After hugging Regina and Emma he went upstairs and to check on Henry. He found him sleeping with his blanket dragging on the floor. He picked it up and tucked Henry back in.
Ronnie then went into his study and walked over to a case that held a silver dagger. On the dagger was his nickname "Rumpelstiltskin". Removing the dagger he walked to a wall that held pictures of his family. Ronnie began slashing the photos of him and Cora leaving those of his children alone. The Swan temper was legendary and all his children had inherited it.
That was ten years ago and his family had to learn to stretch a penny. Ronnie was now the principal of Storybrooke High but his salary barely covered expenses. It was a good thing that their house was paid for.
The large Victorian aged house with its street number 815 Elm Street was pretty modest. It's front porch use to wrap around the sides. Faded roses and mountain laurels in the front showed that the summer days were winding down and that autumn was stretching forth her hand to begin painting the tall oaks that had provided much needed shade.
The kitchen was a busy place and the morning rush was well underway under Ronnie's patient supervision. His sixteen year old twins, Regina and Emma, were finishing up clearing off the breakfast dishes when their bother Henry bolted through the door and almost knocked the plates that Emma was placing into the dishwasher from her hands.
"Hey Kid, slow down, what's the rush it's only junior high!" She laughed.
Regina shook her head laughing, "He only knows two speeds, sleeping and hyperspace."
Ronnie looked at his son and remembered how he was at Henry's age and laughed, "Don't worry it won't be long before he has his nose stuck in his books. We won't be able to get him out of his room then."
Regina and Emma nodded, "That is true. Once school starts he's all work and no play. However, we are going to change that this year." Regina declared.
Henry rolled his eyes at both his sisters. "Well my hard work will pay off. Both with my grades and on the basketball court. You both should try it sometime. You know ...success."
Emma came around Henry's side and shoved her elbow in his ribcage. "Dang Ginny he's getting to be as much of a smartass as you. There's hope for him yet."
Ronnie shook his head and laughed. He loved the morning ritual his kids put on daily, harassing and teasing each other. Ronnie put his tea cup into the dishwasher and closed the door. "Every one ready for school?"
Regina looked at her Dad and mumbled, "I'm as ready as I can be considering my dad is the principal. Starting tenth grade is bad enough."
Emma nodded as she put on her jacket, "Well at least it's a new building so no rats."
Regina laughed, "You forgot about the lost boys and girls they'll make up for that."
The Lost boys and Lost girls were from the wealthier families in Storybrooke. They were the last in a long line in a feud between the working class kids and the rich kids. Oh, there were some in the rich kids like Killian Jones and Regina's boyfriend, Robin Locksley, that preferred to earn their own money and refused to take part in the silly feud.
Henry nodded, "They will more than make up for it."
Swan frowned sarcastically "That is no way to talk about your classmates. Respect is a must."
"Yeah well that's a two way street now isn't it." Henry barely whispered so only his sisters heard. Emma high-fived him.
"We need to get going." Regina looked at Emma "Nice outfit Tomboy."
Emma just grinned, "Thanks Big Sis."
Regina looked at her with a twinkle in her eye, "Don't mention it baby sister." Emma laughed out loud while Henry just rolled his eyes.
The Blanchard kitchen was a modest affair. It was a large enough to accommodate the family and a few guests. White lace curtains were pulled back to allow the sunlight in. Other than a small herb garden on the windowsill and a few knickknacks, the room had very little ornamentation. Eva Blanchard kept telling herself that she needed to buy a few vases and pictures to make the room homier. It could be a very cheery morning but it was not shaping up to be one of Eva's good days. Her left arm was throbbing. The arm had been injured during a robbery when Eva was on the Storybrooke police force. She had taken a bullet for her partner Frank Hardy. It left the arm weaken and then she had to leave the police force. That was six years ago, and there were some days the bitterness took over. Thankfully those days were becoming fewer.
"Mom, why don't you let me help with breakfast?" Mary Margaret Blanchard asked.
"I have it MM, using the nickname she and everyone else calls her.. It's just the cold autumn air. Nice outfit. Is that the one you spent all summer on?" Eva replied.
"Yes it is. I found the old pattern at Gold's. Not too conservative or too wild." MM said smiling.
"MM, sometimes I wish you would have a little bit more of me in you." Eva replied.
MM laughed as she sat at the table. She actually thought she was pretty wild compared to her best friend Emma. Leo Blanchard came in and kissed his wife, "Breakfast smells good. I will be home by 4 so I can trim those bushes outside."
"Leo, we have kids. There is no need for you to rush home to do yard work." Eva laughed.
"Well Eric does put in his share of yard work. Speaking of which, where is Eric?" Leo said
Eric came in the backdoor. "I was putting my football gear in the trunk of MM's car. My maverick is on the outs again. Good thing that it is easy to work on. Besides it is MM's week to drive. Once I get the new starter on the mav, which should be this weekend, everything should be good for a while."
Eva looked at her kids "Well, you can't go to school on an empty stomach so eat something. I've made Belgian waffles and maple smoked bacon." Leo looked at his son. "Eric, I know you love that car but don't you think it's time to put her out of her misery?"
"Dad, she just needs a little love." Eric laughed.
Leo shook his head and grabbed his son and put him in a head lock and rubbed the top of his head.
"Boys, behave or there will be no waffles for either of you." Eva teased.
Eva looked at her husband, "Leo I remember that old Nova you use to drive. You were always working on it." She teased. All the family banter was improving Eva's disposition. "We had some good times in that car. I remember in the summertime going to the drive in. We never did watched much of the movie though." Eva said.
A big smile came to Leo's face.
"Mom!" MM and Eric shouted. "That is too much info!" MM said as her face turned red.
Eric frowned. "Way too much info."
Leo and Eva laughed. "Well kids, the stork didn't bring you, you know. " Leo grinned at his wife as he riled up his kids.
Eric shook his head as if to get a certain image out of his mind, while MM moaned a very loud "Ugh, please stop."
Leo looked at his daughter, "Speaking of romance, MM are you going the welcome back dance Friday?"
"Yes Flynn and I are going. I love him so much." MM said with dreamy eyes.
"Mmmm" Leo muttered. His grin vanished.
"What was that dear?" Eva teased.
"Sweet heart you know we don't like him. We wish you would find someone else." Leo said
Eva looked at her husband, "My dad felt the same way about every guy I ever dated including you sweet thing. And we started dating when I was 22 and you were 24."
"That was totally different." Leo grumbled.
Eva laughed, "Well hun in my father's defense you rode a Harley and dressed like you were a member of the Hell's Angels. You can hardly blame him for having his concerns. However, what is different is that MM just happens to be your daughter, and so the rules are different now and you are being a typical dad."
Leo countered, "Well as I recall you spent most of that time caring less about what Richie thought and blatantly ignoring his concerns."
Eva added, "Babe, of course I did. I was a rebel and proud of it. And let's not forget your high school nickname was The Shredder."
Eric's eyes widened, "What? Dad was named after the villain from 'The Teenage mutant Ninja Turtles'?"
Eva assured her son, "Don't worry it's not as dramatic as it sounds. Back in high school, your dad played lead guitar in a band and let's just say he was awesome at it. The best Ax-man in the area."
Leo said, "Hey better than what they used to call me in grade school. they could have nicknamed me Yoda."
Eva looked at her son, "So Eric have you asked Ariel Trident to the dance?"
"Yes yesterday. Ariel is a sweet girl and I love her." Eric admitted.
"Well I am glad that you found a decent girl. Eric, you and Gus seemed to have become good buddies too." Eva replied.
"Gus listens to me and has helped to learn to control my temper. Besides, Peter Banning and his lost boys have learned that they can't push my buttons anymore. The only one that still has a problem with me is Dave Nolan. I miss Jimmy too and I wish I could help him, but Dave has this wall built all around him, and nobody can seem to get past it. Not even Gus." Eric said. "These waffles are great and the maple smoked bacon is delicious. Thanks for breakfast mom."
"Just remember not to neglect your studies. You both get so caught up your extracurricular actives and your jobs that you forget to study." Leo said.
"Well, I've decided that studying comes first. Only three years left of high school and I am going to make the best of them." Eric replied.
MM nodded, "Yeah I need to crack down too. I won't be doing much tutoring this year."
"Good to hear. Eva you out did yourself. I''m enjoying this so much. Would anybody like another waffle?" Leo said as wiped a bit of strawberry jam off his mouth.
"I would ."MM said.
Eva placed another waffle on MM's plate. She loved her family and what had started as bad day had turned into a good one. Even the pain in her shoulder didn't matter anymore. She made a mental note to go see Lily Booth and Ruth Nolan for a quick shopping trip and lunch.
She worried almost as much about her kids' friends as she did her own and was troubled by what Eric had said about Dave. She knew that Dave didn't consider her a real hero but Dave was entitled to his own definition of that word. She herself didn't consider what she did as being a hero, it was just her job.
She held no resentment toward the young man. He had suffered a great lost when his brother and role model, Jimmy, was killed. She understood that loss more than Dave had realized. She had seen Jimmy grow up to be a fine young man and his loss while saving his men made her deed pale in comparison.
It was early morning as Aurora sat on the edge of the tree house waiting for the deer to start feeding. She doubled checked the f-stop on her camera, her tripod, her laptop and she smiled as they were close to perfect. She stayed quiet as she waited. Ruby had told her that it was okay for her to be there because her mother probably wouldn't be back for a few more months.
The tree house was still in great shape for one mostly built by kids from old scraps of lumber. The tree house had a railing that encircled it like a ring and four rooms. Of course Ruby, Flynn, and the rest of the gang didn't know that they actually had a great deal of help. Sol, Ronnie, Bill and Al had secretly fixed any mistakes.
Aurora saw several deer walk into the meadow and quickly snapped several photos. They were all doe. Soon, a buck came out of the woods and joined them. She took several of him. Suddenly, a shot rang out causing her to jump. It was not hunting season yet, and she felt sick as she saw the buck fall. She quickly dialed the game warden and took photos of the slain buck as soon as she hung up her cell phone. She slid back in the shadows and watched as the poacher came out of the woods. He looked around as if he was casing the area, and as he saw nothing out of place, he started to swagger and appeared giddy. She recognized the face when he turned slightly. It was Hans. She took several quick shots of him. Hunting season was long and there was no need to poach during the off season. A few minutes later as Hans was gutting the deer, both Aurora and he heard the siren. Hans jumped up and slipped back into the woods.
The game warden looked at the photos and looked at Aurora, "Great work on the photos. However this is private property so what were you doing here?" Athene Eveningstar was curious as to why the young woman was in the woods, in a tree house, in the first place.
"Well, it belongs to my friend's mother. My friend Ruby Redman. She said it would be okay for me to be here. What will happen to the poacher that did this?' Aurora replied.
"Well it's private property, and it isn't deer season, so he is in big trouble when we find him. As for the deer carcass it will rot unless someone can take it and have butchered." Eveningstar replied. "I will need to take your memory card. Do you have copies of these?"
"I always have backups. I did it right before you entered the meadow. I think my dad can take care of that buck if that is alright with you?." Aurora said. Eveningstar nodded.
"Dad, I'm at Ruby's old tree house Han's poached a deer and there is no point in letting it go to waste. so why do you come get it." Aurora said over her cellphone.
"I'll be there in a jiffy. You should hustle and get to school. You don't want to be late on the first day."
"I'm on my way Dad. I made plenty of time to do this shoot and get there in time."
Tamara York pulled into an empty spot a with her 1967 Z28 Camaro. It's rich black interior glistened in the morning sun. She pushed a button and the top lowered. As she got out, David Nolan pulled in next to her in his 1969 Selby Mustang. Tamara smiled. "Sounds like you managed to scrape up enough to get that Edelbrock top end kit. She sounds sweet."
David laughed "Kris, Gus and I put it in yesterday. You still haven't ragged out that Z28 yet?"
Tamara laughed, "I keep her in perfect condition. Just like this body."
David shook his head, "You need to stop the street racing. You are going to kill yourself. You and Bo have a huge rivalry. You both take too many risks."
Tamara giggled "Well you did pretty good Friday night. What was it 1000 bucks after 5 races? Don't worry Dave. I know what I am doing."
Actually Tamara at times had a death wish because her mother's preferred method of keeping her in line was an old broom handle. Something that most people thought only went on in the poor neighborhoods. When it was really bad Tamara could only see death as a way out.
The sounds of a Harley hog suddenly rang out through the parking lot echoing off the buildings. Neal Cassidy pulled in beside them. Neal slowly got off his bike and looked at them, "Hi David and Tamara, Where can I find the office."
David shook his head and pointed, "Go straight into the front doors and turn left. Are you ready for your uncle to be your principal?"
Neal shrugged "As ready as I can be. He and my dad made me sign up for football. Not sure how good I'll be."
"Well you've done pretty well in those pickup games we've been playing." David laughed.
Neal looked at Tamara and her car, "I hear you guys street race. Anyone race bikes?"
"Not many bikers here unfortunately. Get yourself a real ride with a good engine if you want to race." Tamara said mockingly.
"I'm a biker, four wheels are just too slow" Neal replied with a chuckle.
The high school student parking lot was slowly filling up. Emma and Regina got out of Regina's truck and headed into the building. They entered into the older part of the building, a large foyer with a statue of a knight in the center and a trophy case filled with sports awards on the right. There were three sets of double doors that lead into the main hall. A large bulletin board was on the wall directly across from the doors.
As they headed through the doors, they saw their friends, Mary Margaret Blanchard and Ruby Redman reading the bulletin board. They walked over to them and they had a group hug.
Emma looked at her friends, "I intend to have a good time this year. I am really looking forward to gym class."
Regina sighed. "Emma you need to focus on more than sports and gym class. Don't you have Honors Government and Trig this year?"
Ruby rolled her eyes, "Ugh you already are in Trig? I will be lucky to get through Algebra II. I hate math classes. "
Ruby was bisexual and had a reputation as a bit of a wild girl. Rumor had it that she smoked and drank regularly, and jumped from relationship to relationship. Her mother, Anita Redman was a model and an actress and was currently in Australia filming a TV series. All the publicity on her mother claimed she was a drug addict and alcoholic. Ruby had lost count as to how many men her mother had been linked to the last couple years. Ruby had grown up mostly without her mother, particularly since Jr. High seeing less and less of her mother during her formidable years. They haven't spoken a civil word to each other in five years. Ruby was Emma and Regina's cousin.
Mary Margaret Blanchard, better known as MM to her friends, lived next to the Swans. They had grown up together and were more like family than just friends. It had been Eva who had helped the Swan children the most after their mother had left them.
Regina looked at Ruby and MM. "So did you two make the cheerleading squad?"
Ruby laughed. "Yeah we did but it wasn't easy. Ms. French wants everyone to try out even if you were previously on it. There were a lot seniors on the squad which means a lot of openings and a lot of girls trying out."
MM nodded, "All that hard work last spring and late summer paid off in the end. How come you didn't try out Ginny?"
Regina laughed, "Really? Me waving pom poms and jumping up and down?"
Everyone shared a laugh with Ginny. "Yeah not exactly what I picture my big sis doing." Emma added.
MM looked them, "You must both really be bummed having your dad as the principal. I bet he will keep you both on your toes."
Emma laughed. "Ginny and I have him wrapped around our little fingers. He doesn't scare us." Ginny raised her eyebrows at Emma. "Okay he scares us. But he is really a softy underneath all that gruff. Most of the time." All three kept looking at her. " Okay, yeah. It sucks."
The continued to talk and laugh about the upcoming school year. Flynn walked up to MM and smiled at the four girls.
"Hey MM, want to go out tonight?"
MM smiled and said "I'd love to."
She reached over and gave him a soft kiss. The other three smiled at them both. All five then turned back to look at the bulletin board.
Suddenly there was a loud commotion at the doors.
Ruby and the others looked round and saw the lost girls come in. The lost girls forced their way past them, pushing them away from the board. Milah Jenkins smirked as she ended up in the middle of bulletin board with her gang. She looked over the board and one announcement in particular caught her eye. She smiled. "Well look at that. The 10th Grade officials nomination sign up sheet. Hey everyone, you are looking at your new class president. She signed her name on the sheet.
Regina's expression grew cold and her eyes flared. She walked up to the board brushing against Milah's shoulder. Taking her pen from her purse she wrote her name on the President nomination sheet. "I think I'll throw my hat into the ring."
Milah laughed as she pushed a little against Regina's side. "You will be lucky to get a single vote."
Regina smiled, "Luck will have nothing to do with me winning this election." Emma grinned and shoved her way through the lost girls to stand proudly next to her sister. "Ginny will kick your ass." She looked directly in Milah's eyes.
Milah smiled dangerously. "Speaking of kicking someone's ass. I haven't done that for a few days. But I think I found my next victim."
Emma continued staring at her. Milah stepped closer to Emma so they were within inches of each other's faces. Ruby pushed past to stand next to Emma with her expression of 'bring it on' obvious to anyone. MM and Flynn came up behind Milah effectively blocking her from her gang.
MM whispered to Emma "Don't start anything with her. She is not worth it."
Regina sized up the situation and looked at Emma, "So did you make that hoop thing?"
Emma laughed, "Yep. Star forward and it's called basketball." Emma backed up a step and turned toward her sister. "Or hoops if you actually play."
Regina grinned, "Congrats Tomboy, now do us proud. But then you are a Swan and that is a given."
Milah looked at them with a smirk and shoved her way past the bulletin board, and walked away with the rest of the Lost Girls following behind her. Jackie and Christy Everett shrugged their shoulders as they walked by. Marian followed behind Christy, looking back at Ruby one last time.
Regina watched them walking down the hall and started laughing disdainfully, "Was it something I said?"
They all started laughing.
Harmony Simmons crossed her legs in an attempt to stop fidgeting. Sitting across from the school's principal and vice principal was making her nervous. By contrast, her sister who was actually the one enrolling at the school, was still. Yet Harmony could see the fear written on Melody's face. To outsiders, Melody appeared to be calm and at ease. But Harmony knew it was her Tai Chi training that was masking her emotions. Melody's eyes flashed and she was flicking her fingers against the underside of her leg where only she could see. A knock on the door stopped Principal Swan's speech. Ms. LaFaye walked the short distance and opened the door.
"Hi, I'm Andrew Curtis. I believe I am expected."
"Yes, please come in. Your student is actually here right now." Ms. LaFaye responded.
Introductions were made all around and Mr. Curtis pulled up a chair. He immediately started doing his job as he signed everything to Melody that was said. Ronnie Swan explained that they had hired Mr. Curtis from the neighboring town of Morgan's Hallow, since they had never needed a sign language special needs instructor at the high school before.
'Great,' thought Melody, 'I am apparently the only deaf kid in this entire school. Well that just sucks.' She played with the corner of her backpack as she watched Mr. Curtis sign everyone's words. She had her hearing aids in but they only allowed the very basic sounds to penetrate and she could not distinguish any words. She sighed resigning herself to another year of loneliness. Once kids figured out she talked by signing, they all just ignored her. She actually could talk but mostly did not. At times, she did talk with her sister but strangers could not understand her words most of the time, and it was frustrating. In fact, most people thought she was mute as well and she did not ever correct them.
Mr. Curtis would be in every class with her, the only exceptions being lunch and in the girls gym locker room. She looked up at her sister who returned her gaze. Harmony gave her a small encouraging smile. She glanced back to her interpreter to listen. Soon the meeting was over for her, and all her paperwork signed. She looked at her schedule and followed Mr. Curtis out of the room into the school's hallway. She waved goodbye to her sister, who was staying to sign more paperwork. As they rounded a corner she saw two boys watching a pretty, tall, blond girl at her locker. She walked a few more feet, opened the door to room 114 and entered with her interpreter right behind her. With much apprehension, Melody Simmons started her first day at Storybrooke High.
Emma arrived at her locker and opened it. She sorted her books out and got ready for her first class. Emma was unaware that she was being watched from a distance. August was gazing at her. Emma and August had been best friends since second grade. He also has a crush on her since forever but had never had wanted it ruin their friendship.
David noticed how August looked at Emma, "Dude can't you be less obvious? Just go and ask her out already"
August shrugged "What is it with you Dave?"
David laughed "Man, you've been crushing on that girl since she saved your life back in second grade and have not done anything about it."
August stiffened "Excuse me, that's not true!"
David rolled his eyes "Really? Name one occasion"
August thought for a few minutes "Valentine's Day 2006 I made Emma that heart-shaped card asking her to be my Valentine and she said yes."
David shook his head "Yeah as a kind gesture. She was being nice"
August rolled his eyes at David realizing that his friend was clueless about him, "I'm her secret Santa every Christmas."
David looked at him with a grin "Does she know that yet?"
August laughed "No, that's the whole point of a secret Santa, you're not supposed to tell them Daveeeee." August was enjoying the game he was playing with David.
David put his arm around August, "Gus, Dude, you keep doing all these nice gestures for her but not once have you asked her out ."
August shook his head and shrugged away from Dave. "That's again so untrue, I nearly asked her to dance at the Junior High Dance, remember?"
David looked up in the air, "That's it, you nearly asked her, dude you choked."
August took a deep breath he wanted to tell Dave that he had been dating Ruby at the time, "I didn't choke, I was two feet away about to ask her until Greg Mendell threw a football at my artificial leg and made me fall flat on my ass and the punch bowl landed and spilled all over me. Everyone laughed at me."
David sighed "Look, my point is you have not once asked Emma out on a date. What are you waiting for? You're in the best position dude. You're her best guy friend. You two hang out all time and she trusts you completely so it's not like she doesn't know you exist. What is it with you and Emma Swan anyway?"
August looking exasperated "That girl isn't my soulmate Dave. She is just a friend."
David laughed "OMG not the old we're just friend's crap. She is a hot blonde girl that any guy dreams about doing it with. Seriously, why can't you have a wet dream just like every other hormonal teenage boy?"
August stared at David in disgust, "not every boy has sex on the mind 100% like you do."
David rolled his eyes as he looked up "Dude, you haven't even seen a girl naked."
August shrugged, wanna bet, jerk, he though. , " Just because I don't read porn like you doesn't mean I don't think about sex."
David looked at him with compassion "That doesn't mean you have to fantasize about Emma. Any girl will do. Heck. It could be Cameron Diaz for all we know."
August chucked, "Then if that's the case Cameron Diaz is my fantasy. Look Dave, I don't undress chicks in my mind."
David leaned against the locker "Look dude my point is we're not kids anymore. Were in high school now. You shouldn't let having one leg stop you from getting some action."
August wanted to laugh, "Seriously Dave?"
David laughed "I don't mean getting laid, going on a date and having a girlfriend. It's time dude seriously. Grow a pair of balls and do something about it. Make Emma see you more than just the dependable guy who always there for her. Look. Ruby's having a party at her house on Friday to celebrate the beginning of high school why don't you ask her to go with you?"
August shrugged "Because even if I did, Tomboy wouldn't go anyway she doesn't do parties remember?"
David nodded "Then ask her to a dinner and a movie."
August laughs "Then if it's so easy for you David then why don't you take your own advice and ask out MM? I know you been crushing on her for as long as I can remember."
David laughed "I want her to come to me first."
August shook his head his long hair going from side to side, "Yeah right, you're just afraid of having to deal with her brother"
David looked at him "Uh-huh"
August stared at David "Yuh-huh."
David got a serious expression on is face "I still can't fathom how MM could be related to that maniac."
August chuckled "C'mon he's not an axe murderer."
David looked right at August and frowned, "He's as good as, Eric is a maniac who attacks people."
August stared right at David with a stern look "Now you're making him sound like a stalker rapist."
David shook his head "Seriously, the guy likes to beat the crap out of people."
August frowned "Yeah, who are usually asking for it. Pan and the lost boys"
David looked at August in wonder "How do you know that?"
August looked back "Well, if people are gonna speak ill of heroes they deserve all they get."
David looked at Gus with a bit of contempt, "Look I'm sorry about the tragedy that happened to Eva, we all remember how it affected her and her family, but Eric can't keep using that as a free pass for attacking people. All actions have consequences and Eric has to learn that."
Just like Jimmy shouldn't be a free pass for things you do, Gus thought.
Belle French entered the cafeteria and sat down at the faculty table. A few minutes later Ronnie entered and got a cup of tea. He walked over, "Good Morning Miss French, is this seat taken?"
Belle smiled at heart was pounding in her chest, "Of course not Mr. Swan. How are you feeling this fine morning."
Ronnie laughed, "I'm sure that my kids don't think it's a fine morning."
Belle chuckled, "Well you do wear two hats now. I'm sure they will manage it. You know the dagger you have in the display case in your office has been the subject of some outlandish rumors."
Thirteen year old Ronnie Swan was sitting at the table across from another boy, Swan rolled a set of 5 sided dice.
Swan smiled, "Well I can either heal myself by 20 healing points or block your spell by 15, costing me hit points. Miles, I will heal myself."
Jefferson Hatter laughed as he rolled, "Good move Rumpelstiltskin. But I will use my magic staff to cast a draining spell on you."
Ronnie grinned and rolled the dice, "Remember when I held a roll in reserve? Well I am combining it with this one, casting the spell of total destruction upon you taking all your health points and hit points."
People started clapping. A tall man stood up and walked to the podium, "The Curse of the Dark One quest has been won by Rumpelstiltskin Swan. Come Mr. Swan and receive the Dagger of Merlin."
Jefferson slapped Ronnie on the back, "Good game buddy."
Ronnie laughed, "Thanks Jeff but I got lucky."
Ronnie walked up to the platform and took the dagger, "I couldn't have done without Jeff Hatter teaching me how to play by beating me over and over again."
Ronnie smiled, "Oh it is just a trophy from an AD&D tournament I won when I was 13. My father made me swear that I would keep my grades up when I started playing that game. He was more proud that I kept my end of the bargain on the grades. I keep it as reminder of that more than of the game. It is where I got the nickname Rumpelstiltskin"
Belle grinned, "Well he should have been proud, you've told me that your father was a common laborer and wanted you and your brother to be men of letters."
Ronnie nodded and slipped his tea, "He was a firm but fair man. Sol and I learned a lot from just watching and listening to him. Well it was nice talking to you. Miss French would you give me the pleasure of your company and let me take you out to dinner this Saturday night?"
"Why Mr. Swan are you asking me out on a date?" Belle asked.
"Ms. French I believe I am." Ronnie chuckled.
Ronnie was walking down the locker lined hallway and saw Peter Banning and motioned to him.
Peter approached "Yes Mr. Swan?"
Ronnie looked at him, "You are such a polite young man. Mr. Banning. Your reputation precedes you. Let me make it clear. I will be watching you and if any of your band steps out of line it will be you that gets punished."
Peter glared at him with a smile, "That's not fair. Are you sure you want to take that road?"
Ronnie laughed, "Do you Mr. Banning? I never say anything I don't back up. I've already spoken to your father and he has agreed to it. Oh and that goes for the Lost Girls too."
Peter walked away as a hunchback boy in a wheel chair went by. Swan looked at him and then at Peter. Ronnie stopped the boy, "Glad to have you in our school, ."
Aramis smiled, "Thanks Mr. Swan. I can't wait for class to start. Math is my best subject."
Ronnie laughed, "Well you will find that most everyone here will make you feel at home. Those that don't, well they will be taught some respect:"
Ruby was walking down the school hall sucking on a lollipop. She stopped in front of her locker. She felt eyes on her and realized she was being watched by Glenda North. On the surface, Glenda and Ruby appeared to be the complete opposites of one another. Ruby was wild and had a free spirit. She did what she wanted and cared not one bit what others thought of her. Glenda was conservative through and through. She followed her morals that she had learned at home from her father. Glenda had always looked down her nose at Ruby, judging her to be a 'loose woman', the kind her father said would be going to hell and was ruining the country. She even had called her hurtful names, and she wasn't exactly sure why Ruby bothered her so much. There were many others at school that she should have been bothered by, but she just ignored them. Even though she didn't understand it, she also felt remorse after her encounters with Ruby but pushed that feeling away.
On the surface it appeared that Glenda was a girl with strong religious convictions and closed off thoughts, when in fact deep down Glenda was more of a free, open and kind spirit just screaming to get out. By hearing the two together, anyone would have thought they were hateful enemies. But the truth was that Glenda actually admired Ruby and her freedom and her fire. She had thought back in middle school that she might actually be in love with Ruby, but she had pushed those feelings way far inside, due to the extreme conflict with her beliefs So instead of facing her feelings she lashed out at the one who confused her the most.
It's not like Ruby had no idea. She would notice Glenda gawking at her from afar while she was getting dressed during swim or gym class. It stemmed from an encounter she'd had with Ruby when they were thirteen and in 7th grade. During a game of Truth or Dare at a party, Ruby had been dared to make out with Glenda. Even though very shy about it, Glenda was a willing participant and found herself enjoying it too much. Something clicked for both of them but neither wanted to acknowledge what had happened. Soon after that Glenda started acting like it had never happened. Then she started lashing out. So much so that neither could see Glenda's pain just under the surface. Until recently that is.
Ruby smiled, "Hey Glenda how is my nemesis today?"
Glenda winced knowing Ruby had found her staring and said the first thing that popped into her head, "I just find it appalling that a girl your age would dress like someone twice their age." Secretly she thought just how sexy and lovely Ruby looked.
Ruby laughed, "Oh Glenda how I just love our daily encounters. How I just look forward to them."
Glenda asked, "I'm just wondering how you can sleep at night corrupting those poor souls the way you do."
Ruby joked, "I sleep like a baby thank you very much and as for corrupting souls, honey I've had no complaints from any of them."
Glenda said, "My you really are a tramp and you really do have no shame."
Ruby countered, "Well at least I'm honest about who I am. At least I am not pretending to be something I'm not."
Glenda said, "I don't know what you mean." Inside her heart actually fluttered at the comment.
Ruby teased, "Come on you can fool everyone else with this goody- goody religious zealot facade but we both know that's not who you really are."
Glenda said, "You're deluded."
Ruby kept teasing, "Come on why don't you admit it."
Glenda asked, "Admit what?"
Ruby smiled, "That even though you appear to hate me really you actually want me. You probably dream about me touching you."
Glenda was appalled, "Whhhhhaaaaat!? That's absurd." her breathing picked up and she could feel herself getting warm.
Ruby said, "Come on I've seen the way you look at me. How you watch me like a stalker."
Glenda denied, "I don't know what you're talking about."
Ruby assured her, "It's okay. I don't mind I'm used to being watched from afar. You still think about it don't you?"
Glenda asked, "Think about what?"
Ruby teased, "You know what. The slumber party at MM's when we played truth or dare and you kissed me."
Glenda responded, "You mean the night you kissed me and you took advantage of me?"
Ruby corrected her, "As I recall you were a willing participant. I only meant to give you a quick peck but you turned it into a full blown kiss. The next thing I knew you were caressing my neck and arms."
Glenda choked and stuttered. Then she gave the version she had been telling herself, "No that was not the way it was. We were drunk from your mom's vodka. We were confused and we didn't know what we were doing."
Ruby added, "Actually, it was red wine and you only drank a few sips and then you spat most of it out. So no Glenda, you were hardly drunk. And had you been truly drunk I would never have even tried to kiss you. I don't do that."
Glenda paled and then admitted, " Well no matter. It was a mistake. It shouldn't have happened. It never will again"
Ruby smirked, "Alright. Keep telling yourself that if it makes you feel better. But you felt something that night. You know you did. Perhaps it stirred something in you and now you are just afraid of letting it out. So you pretend you are better than me and that you are more moral and that I disgust you. When in fact you felt something and even now you feel drawn to me."
Glenda spat, "You know ruby you're right. I did feel something that night. Disgusted, repulsed, and sickened. In fact, whenever I think of that night it makes my skin crawl and I get sick to my stomach."
Ruby smiled, "Sure. Whatever you say. But I remember a lost girl seeking and finding a safe place when you kissed me that night. You are still searching Glenda."
Two new girls Alice Pleasance and Dorothy Gale were standing just inside a room near Ruby and Glenda's exchange.
Alice shook her head and spoke to Dorothy, "That girl is hurting and Ruby clearly doesn't see how much. Obviously she hurt Ruby by ignoring what really happened, and now even Ruby is shutting her out. That is no way to help some one to see the light of day. That girl is in desperate need of friends who understand the turmoil she is going through and not accusations and discouragement."
Dorothy nodded, "I have never talked to Ruby, but I think maybe it's time to spread the news that after some storms a beautiful rainbow is just over the horizon. The other girl is hurting, She has trapped herself a cage and can't free herself. She needs enlightenment. She needs friends."
"Hey Sister Christian. Did you forget your nun habit again? " Ginger Grant yelled at Glenda as she walked by her.
Dorothy and Alice winced and both looked up to see Ms. French grimace as she heard the comment. She smiled at both of them and nodded. They smiled back.
Glenda had stiffened at the stupid words. She couldn't let them see how those words stung her soul. She couldn't let any of them see her pain and anguish. She didn't know that Ruby felt her pain and was ashamed.
Ruby glared at Grant but said nothing out of fear that Glenda would be hurt even deeper. She looked at Glenda, "Look, I am sorry if what I say makes you uncomfortable or scared. That is definitely not my intention. Sometimes I also forget to listen and just run my mouth. I am not miss perfect but at least I try not to hurt people. If I did hurt you at all Glenda, I am truly sorry."
Glenda looked at her, as her stomach was doing flips, and gave her a weak smile, "I was harsh too. I know that your reputation is way over blown. Don't let them see your fears because if you do then they win. That's one thing I've learned to do. Both here and at home. Look I need to go but Ruby, I don't mean to insult you, and I am not sure why I do. I know it is wrong." She turned and hurried off down the hallway before Ruby could see the tears sliding down her cheeks.
Archie Hopper's homeroom was a fun place to be. Hopper was always in a good mood. The students respected him a lot, He was like a dad to many. He also had love for each of the students and had mutual respect for them.
Hopper had long red hair and beard. He drove a classic Harley hog. He was tall and lanky but that was deceptive as Hopper could handle himself in a fight.
Hopper called his homeroom to order. The students took their seats. He looked at them good naturedly, "Good morning everybody. I hope you all had a nice summer. I would like to welcome our newest students, Anna Kelly and Dorothy Gale.
Archie called the roll call. As he called their name each student said 'here.'
When it came to Emma's time she said 'present' instead and just grinned.
Archie shook his head at her laughing. "Young lady you had better be glad that I used to help change you."
Hopper spotted Tamara in the back row and rechecked his roll book, "Tamara York."
Tamara shrugged, "Here, Mr. Hopper."
Hopper looked at her and smiled, "Well I suspect that we are both surprised that you are in this class. It must have been our new girl's vice principal Ms. La Faye. that's behind this assignment. Now class a few announcements."
As he was going through the announcements, Greg Mendell walked in with a note. Hopper read it, "Well it seems that Greg is now a part of this homeroom as well. "Welcome to the class."
"Now first thing, if any or you need to talk about anything you know that I am here. Next as I said earlier we have a new girl's vice principal, Ms. Boann Blu La Faye. I understand that she used to be a headmistress at an English girl's school and won't take any misbehavior lightly so Knights and Corvettes don't get caught."
The class laughed.
Hopper waited for the laughter to die down, "Finally, There's a welcome back to school dance in the gym Friday Night. As always the school dress code will be enforced. Not that we have much of a code anyway. Now everyone have a great school day."
MM passed a note to Emma that said, 'Sit together with the Vettes at lunch and hang out together with us after school. Also what is your free period?'
Emma passed the note back replying "Sounds like a plan girlfriend. 11 to 12."
MM smiled and nodded.
Archie looked at his notes, "I just noticed this, don't forget the signup sheet on the bulletin board in the hall for class president. I'm sure we will have some fine candidates."
Milah snickered, "You mean candidate. Nobody is brave or dumb enough to run against me. Besides if they did I will beat them. I have this election in the bag."
Regina chuckled and said under her breath, "Oh Milah, you will make a good candidate….For a pole dancer."
Regina stood up, "Mr. Hopper, I would like announce my candidacy for Class President. I signed up this morning."
Milah glared at Regina, "Oh look the stable girl wants to be our president."
Regina smiled, "Well at least I know the correct part of a horse to stroke. Milah, never under estimate a Swan. We will make you pay for it."
A little while later in the gym, Emma was alone at one end shooting hoops. A tall slender boy approached her and caught a rebound and took a shot, "Well Swan why do play by yourself?"
Emma rolled her eyes as she swore under her breath, "What do want Hook?, refering to Killian Jones by his colorful moniker."
Killian Jones passed her the ball, "For one, to be your friend. Just look around. You don't have to be by yourself."
Emma passed the ball hard to Killian. "I like solitude Hook."
Killian took a step back and caught it, "Swan, you are pretty spitfire." He passed her the ball back.
"Besides, I have all the friends I need." Emma replied passing the ball once again to him.
Killian took a shot and missed, Emma took the ball, "Anyway, I thought you were heading for military school."
Killian laughed, "Sorry to disappoint . Not the soldier type, more of a dashing rogue."
Emma smirked "In what action flic?." Killian grinned back.
Regina was on the other side of the court as Ruby walked up. They both looked at the other end and Regina shook her head, "I wish Tomboy would become more open. She use to be so friendly."
"Ginny we all have ways of treating our pain. Her life changed the day that bitch left the two of you out in a rain storm. She shuts people out and hides her pain even from herself."
Regina took a shot, "I don't want to talk about that worthless piece of crap. She is dead to me." She said coldly..
Ruby raised her eyebrows. "And that is how you are dealing with yours. By shutting off your anger and keeping it all inside where it churns. I deal with mine by living my life to the fullest." Ruby replied taking the ball and aiming at the basket she got off a perfect shot, "Nothing but net." She laughed.
"Look I don't want to talk about my mother." Regina said.
Ruby shook her head, "You need to and so does Emmy. We've been friends forever. If you can't talk to me then find somebody you can."
"Stay out of my personal business." Regina said in an icy tone. She walked away from Ruby.
Zelena walked into the 3rd floor girl's bathroom. She looked around to make sure no one was there. She took a razor blade out of her purse and unbuttoned the sleeve on her left arm. She rolled it up. She looked at several old scars on her arm. Zelena cut her arm and watched it bleed. She thought of all her pain flowing out with her blood. She pictured her hurt, her fears, the face of her mother as she continued to watch the blood pool down her arm. Her mind wandered to who she could be and as she reveled in the feeling of being in control for once, she daydreamed about her hope - to leave and study Computer Science at college. After all she was the best damn hacker in the school.
She watched it bleed for several minutes then took a paper towel and pressed it against her arm. When the bleeding stopped she placed a bandage over the cut and pulled down her sleeve. She heard voices out in the hall and quickly put the paper towel into the waste basket. She passed Mary Margaret Blanchard as she went out the door.
MM entered the restroom and went to the sink. As she was washing up she noticed the razor blade on the sink. She saw the blood on it and notice it looked fresh. She looked over at the waste basket and saw the bloody paper towel. Her eyes widen and she picked up the razorblade. She knew what Zelena had been doing. She wasn't stupid. Funny though that a cutter would be so careless in cleanup. She wrapped the blade into the paper towel and put it in her purse.
She took a deep breath and whispered out loud. , "I have to do something or tell somebody." She stared into the mirror. Then she shook her head, "No it is her secret. I can't say a word to anyone. But I can try to be her friend."
Tamara entered the cafeteria and bought her lunch, a slice of pepperoni pizza, large fries, and a medium coke. Milah and the other lost girls walked up to her table with their lunch. Milah sat across from her and Marian on her left side. Tamara spotted the new girls Anna and Elsa Kelly setting with Ruby and the rest of the 'vettes. Alice Pleasant and Dorothy Gayle joined them.
Tamara studied the other group with a wistful expression. Milah did not notice, and instead glared at her, "Where were you this morning? You know we all come in together?"
Tamara looked at her, "I've always try to go by my own distinct drum. I don't go by yours."
Milah sputtered and then spat in Tamara's food, "Slut, I will tell you what drum you play and what band member you play it with." No one questioned her authority ever. At least no one who did not pay a huge price for doing so.
Tamara rolled her eyes and went to take her tray to leave. Milah nodded to Jackie. Jackie grinned and as Tamara walked by her, she tripped Tamara causing her to fall and lose all her food. Tamara looked up at them tiredly. Unbeknownst to anyone at the table, the new Vice Principal had seen what happened. LaFaye approached them, "Milah and Jackie my office now!"
"Who in the hell are you?" Milah asked.
"Who am I!? The bloody girl's Vice Principal luv, and I am the one in charge of your fate. I saw what you and she did." LaFaye pointed to Jackie. "Now get up and go to my office."
The three of them headed off. Esmeralda, known to everyone as Zelda, got up and went to help Tamara. Marian and the rest of the lost girls just sat there. Ruby approached her and handed her a slice of pizza from her own tray, "Go ahead and eat." She said sweetly.
As Esmeralda was helping Tamara she whispered to her, "I saw what your mother did to you at the country club last Saturday, if you need to talk about it let me know."
Tamara looked at her suspiciously, "Zelda, why would a 'Vette help a Lost Girl?"
Esmeralda smiled, "I am a Romney and I know how it feels to be spat upon. I am also dating Bo and he is your friend. That makes you my friend."
Tamara smiled as she wiped the tears away. She looked at Ruby who was nodding and back to Zelda who was smiling and said quietly, "When can we talk?"
Greg looked up from under the hood of his Chevy as George Ford, the auto shop instructor, approached him with a smile, "Well Greg that old Nova is purring like a kitten. Now she needs some body and interior work. Get together with Killian about that."
Greg nodded, "I will Mr. Ford."
Greg walked over to Killian. "Hey, I need you to help me with my Nova. I could paint her and do the inside but it won't be as decent as what you can do. You are the master after all."
Killian looked at him, "Sure mate, give me second. You do have her running great."
Peter walked by and shoved Greg to the side. Ford looked up and saw, but thought it was an accident. Killian shook his head, "So what's your mate's problem?"
Greg shrugged his shoulders, "I left the lost boys a month ago. I needed to make a change and he didn't approve."
Peter was listening as he worked on his black 75 Thunderbird. He smiled with his head under the hood and mumbled, "I have your back buddy. I won't let the other lost boys and girls retaliate."
Hook walked over to the Nova, "Sorry to hear about your Grandpa. It must have been a tough time. So how about that 70's green for the body and black for the interior."
Greg nodded, "That will look cool. I bored out the heads of that 350 over the summer. Yeah, my Grandpa Jackson was a great guy, just like my step-dad Gibbs. They made me calm down a lot."
Hook nodded, "I wish my dad was as understanding. Don't take this wrong mate, but that country club lifestyle is a bloody joke. Did you hear what happened at lunch with the lost girls?"
Greg laughed "Yeah. Just like that witch Milah to get Jackie to do her dirty work. I hear that they got detention with Coach Grumpy. That should be fun. Word is that Peter will be joining them."
Killian grinned "Well the gym locker rooms need a good cleaning anyway. Let's get this baby ready to paint."
That afternoon Elsa was in the same girl's restroom where Zelena had cut herself. Elsa opened her purse and got a pill bottle from it. The label on the bottle read Zoloft with instructions that said take once a day. Elsa shook the bottle and a pill dropped into her hand. She took it and was putting the pill bottle into her purse. Suddenly the Lost Girls barged in. Milah spotted Elsa immediately and rushed over to her. She grabbed the bottle out of Elsa's hand, "Lookee here girls. We have got ourselves a pill junky." She checked out the bottle. "Oh some great stuff."
Elsa tried to take the bottle but Milah shoved her against the wall. Tamara forced herself between them. Milah glared at her, "Get the hell out of my way bitch. You are already on thin ice."
Tamara stepped further into Milah's face and glared at her. "LET HER GO MILAH!"
Milah swung at Tamara and connected with a sucker punch. Milah slowly circled her and grinned. Blood was pouring out of Tamara's nose. Milah started laughing loudly. "No one in this group marches to anything but my beat and I think you need a lesson on that Tamara."
Milah signaled to Jackie and Ginger to grab Tamara's arms but they just stood in front of the other lost girls. Shannon Walker and Misty Randolph grabbed Tamara's arms instead,
Milah had dropped the pill bottle on the floor and Elsa grabbed it and stuffed it into her purse. She then retreated into a stall, locked the door and stood there shaking. Tamara spoke up, "How freaking like you Milah, never a fair fight. You always need them to help you win." Jackie and Ginger glared at Milah. Milah look at Shannon and Misty and she nodded. They both released Tamara. Milah taunted Tamara with a hand as if to say bring it on.
Calypso Marlin walked over to the stall door, "Hey are you ok?"
"Leave me alone!" Elsa cried.
No one else had noticed that Marian had ran out the door after watching Milah sucker punch Tamara. Calgary Lewis and the other Lost girls stood behind Jackie and Ginger. Tamara and Milah were circling each other. Milah struck first, trying to throw a punch to Tamara's right but Tamara blocked it a countered with a blow to Milah's gut. Milah showed surprise but being hit seemed to bring out her anger and she started hitting Tamara anywhere she could reach. Most of the punches were light and Tamara easily shrugged them off which appeared to incense Milah even more. Milah finally connected with a blow to Tamara's chest and all of a sudden Tamara let loose. She nailed Milah with a right jab to her face and got in 3 more hits to her body before the door burst open and both girls were being held apart.
Belle and Sgt. Willow Redman had rushed in and pulled them apart.
Belle was holding Tamara and told them both to calm down. Tamara continued to struggle till finally Belle's voice broke through and she stopped. Willow had a hold of Milah and looked at them both, "Okay girls. Who threw the first punch?"
Milah thought she was invincible, "I did but it wasn't a sucker punch."
Marian spoke up for the first time that day. "Looked like a sucker punch to me."
"Well that makes my job bloody easy." La Faye said coming into restroom.
La Faye looked over Tamara and saw old bruises up and down her arms. "Tamara, go to the clinic and get fixed up. Miss French make sure she gets there and bring her to my office afterwards. I'll make sure Milah get hers attended to once I finish with her."
As Ms. French passed La Faye whispered, "Call children's services and make sure that Dr. Whale documents those old bruises."
La Faye took Milah to her office. When they got there La Faye closed the door. "The town school board has a firm policy on fighting. An almost zero policy. You will suspended and the school board will over see the petition for a possible expulsion. At the very least while you are suspended you will report for community service.
Milah glared at her, "YOU WOULDN'T DARE GIVE ME COMMUNITY SERVICE! MY FATHER'S LAWYERS WILL SUE THIS SCHOOL AND YOU!"
La Faye shook her head, "You are having difficulty understanding English. Your parents both signed a form stating they are aware of the discipline procedures of this school. Now I will call your parents and tomorrow you will report to the community action center to start community service. We will keep you informed of the status of your expulsion hearing."
Milah stomped off and La Faye rubbed her head. 'I need more ibuprofen', she thought. "Damn it is only the first day of school."
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