AN: And now we come to the penultimate turning point for the Evil Queen, but be warned, its not pleasant..
Trigger Warnings: Dub-Con, Violence...
Morrigan had gone straight to her quarters after her little..incident with the Queen last night. It doesn't mean sleep came easy though, she kept expecting the royal to barge in and punish her for leaving without permission, or even..finish what they started..
Its early, the sun rises over the mountains from the view through her window. Morrigan climbs out of bed, stretching various aches and pains from her limbs and approaches her wardrobe. She pauses at the standing mirror, green eyes locking onto the ugly red bite mark on her neck, Its vicious looking, the Queen's broken skin..She shivers, Perhaps a run will do me good, help clear my head. At least it keeps me away from her for a while..She quickly dresses in light attire and exits the room cautiously..
Trees rush by as sweat pours from her brow, her lungs and legs may be burning but running through the trees always makes her feel at peace somehow. Morrigan finally slows, panting, eyes closed and leaning heavily on her knees. Eventually she composes herself enough to look around. Her wandering eye settles on a sparkling purple flower peaking from a dense set of bushes and she frowns, That looks familiar..She plucks it, studying the shimmering glow intently, Where have I seen it before?..Green eyes widen.
"No.." She pulls a knife from her boot and slices the vines around the bush. Slowly she pushes forward, eventually breaking through and her mouth drops open, I didn't know I'd ran this far!..
Green eyes scrutinize her rock, her sanctuary, where she'd spent many years alone with her thoughts. Weeds overgrow in many places, there aren't as many purple and white blossoms like before and the large stone structure is covered in moss and mold creeping the edges like a slow spreading disease. She frowns sadly, this used to be my place..A place of sanctuary, a place where I felt..happy once..Regina's younger self flashes in her mind and green eyes slide to the peak of the stone structure, I was happy once..
She walks slowly around the space, taking in everything and replaying fuzzy memories in her mind. She walks to the edge of the cliff, looking over into the shimmering pool below before green eyes slide up and scan the open world in front of her, The view is just how I remember it, the forests grown a little denser in the past four years but the same none the less..A cool breeze washes over her and green eyes slide shut, relishing in the sound of rushing water, I always wanted to come back here but it was too painful. So many memories of a difficult period in my life, The bandits, Brendon, Regina..It would be so easy to just throw myself off this cliff and end all the suffering, but I'm too much of a coward..Her eyes slowly open and she sighs, well I better get back, cant avoid the Queen forever..She turns only to be faced with a placid looking Evil Queen holding a purple flower.
"You know you can never escape me dear."
Morrigan startles, jumping backwards and loses her footing, green eyes bulge as her arms flail, trying to keep herself balanced. Small stones and earth tumble down the ravine but pushing herself upright, her body stumbles forward and away from the edge, Fuck me! Nearly got my wish there!..Morrigan attempts to relax her emphatic heart, placing a hand to her chest and breathing deeply. Green eyes finally focus on the regal Queen who simply stands, gazing at the flower in her hands and slowly plucks the petals, she doesn't look mad but I know better. Any minute now, she'll explode and throw me over the cliff..
"I wasn't trying to escape my Queen I simply.."
The royals hand rises sharply cutting off her reply, here we go..The Queen continues to pluck the purple flower as an uncomfortable silence settles around the area, This is ridiculous! I'm not going to just stand here all day while she plucks every damn flower in this place!..Morrigan moves around the placid woman who remains transfixed with the blossom, Right somethings fucked up here! I should be dead for such actions but she continues to pluck that damn flower!..Her temper flares and she stomps towards her make shift opening but steps back suddenly as vines snake from the earth, blocking her exit and she huffs her irritation.
"And where do you think your going?!"
Morrigan frowns at the clipped tone as the Queen approaches from behind, first the woman doesn't want to talk and now she's suddenly full of questions!..
"Nowhere."
"Clearly you were.." Brown eyes narrow, red lips pursed.."I don't like this sudden attitude my pet. Perhaps I've given you too much time away from your lessons.."
Morrigans frown immediately drops looking into threatening brown eyes.
"Should I rectify that?"
Instantly the collar heats up, prickling Morrigans skin and she swallows harshly, eyes widening in trepidation. The collar shocks her lightly before finally she lowers her head, green eyes drifting to the grassy floor.
"No my Queen. I apologize."
"Hmm..." The royal continues her prowl, brown eyes picking a stoic Morrigan apart.."You will accompany me on my journey to the south eastern village. I've been notified that Snow White is visiting there, that's where you'll finally deliver her head to me. That usurper, turning my own citizens against their Queen! She will not waltz into my kingdom and steal from me!"
"Yes your majesty." Comes the robotic response.
"Report to the stables when you return for preparations and meet me at my carriage in one hour. Do not be late!"
Morrigan bows her head further before the Queen disappears in a plume of lavender smelling smoke. She sighs, another long ass day..Her knife is quickly retrieved from her boot before she begins sawing the tight vines covering her exit...
After a quick wash and changing into her Dark Knight Armour, Morrigan enters the stables hastily, Right preparations..She looks around for her steed, a large chestnut is tacked and prepared at the back of the stables, Wouldn't have been my first choice but the Stallion looks strong and raring to go..She quickly makes her way over, her Armour clunking under her movements when a young stable boy appears from one of the stalls with a black leather saddle. She stops abruptly, almost crashing into the distant looking boy before he jumps backwards at her presence, fright shining in bright blue eyes when they refocus on her. His mouth opens and closes speechless and she sighs irritably, I'm going to be late if he doesn't fucking move..
"Your in my way boy!"
"I..I'm sorry my Lord, I was..I'm just finishing preparations..for your horse I mean."
My horse? Isn't the chestnut mine?..
"Hurry then boy I don't have all day!"
The boy quickly bows his head and stumbles into one of the stalls at the back, Hurry the fuck up! I'm not getting another beating for this!..A few minutes pass before Morrigan hears the clatter of hooves. The boy emerges from the stall with a tall black stallion and green eyes narrow, wait..Is that..a horn? Its a broken horn, Magnus..Tears threaten to spill from emotional eyes as the unicorn is brought forward. The black steed startles when it reaches her but she quickly raises her hands and approaches gently..
"Shhh..That's it old friend, its only me.."
Magnus settles somewhat, continuing to watch her warily as she places one of her hands on his strong neck and strokes gently.
"I thought I'd lost you long ago.."
The black steed turns tentatively, sniffing her Armour and helmet. It relaxes quickly, rubbing its head against her shoulder.
"Hey Magnus.."
The stable boy stands back watching in awe as Morrigan expertly pulls herself atop the unicorn.
"Who's been taking care of him in my absence?"
"I-I have my lord, he came to us last spring, he spooked easily, people tried but..no one else would do it so I.." The boy visibly shrinks away in apprehension.
"Only you will attend to my unicorn in my absence. You'll tend to him at least twice a day, every day and be rewarded generously for continued commitment. Do not fail me boy!"
Blue eyes widen, a small joyous chuckle accidentally spilling from the boys lips before he bows profusely and Morrigan ushers Magnus forward, galloping from the stables with a huge smile under her helmet, This is the first time since my capture that I've felt so..free..
Magnus gallops towards the towering black gates as a royal black carriage pulls onto the dirt road. With a gentle kick, the unicorn charges towards a full squadron of black knights surrounding the pristine carriage.
The Huntsman quickly spots the approaching Knight on horseback, recoiling a little at her speed and Morrigan watches amused as he tugs his horse uncertainly. Pulling back on her reigns, she steers Magnus in the direction of the Queens carriage. The black steed canters passed the black doors before shes assessing the vigilant knights. They stand tall, never faltering under her scrutiny so being satisfied, she swings back towards the carriage on her tame unicorn and cant help breaking into a toothy smile, Its good to be back on him..
She slides in next the carriage noting the Queen grinning up at her through the small window, Well this is certainly one gift I'll be thanking her for..She bows deeply and when looking back, the royal nods firmly, sitting back against the inner leather interior, Right time to get to work..Morrigan lightly squeezes her unicorns ribs, cantering to the front where the Huntsman greets her and the convoy marches towards their destination..
After an hours march without incident, Morrigan shifts, agitated in her saddle, I know the Queens travel plans are always discreet but we haven't come across anyone in our journey, not one single peasant..With all of the latest attacks on the royals life recently, shes on extra lookout. There's sudden movement not far within the tress and she stops Magnus immediately. The Huntsman slides alongside her cautiously.
"What is it Captain?"
She ignores him, staring out into the forest. There's another flicker of movement heading away from them and green eyes widen. She quickly directs her steed towards the retreating figure and shouts her orders.
"PROTECT THE QUEEN!"
Immediately black guard mass around the carriage as the Huntsman swiftly pulls his sword from his belt. Morrigan quickly spurs her unicorn after the black figure. She gallops through the trees, rapidly approaching the fleeing figure. Their black cloak bellows behind them hiding their face as the body rushes through the brush and dives over a bunch of nasty looking thorns. She ignites a fireball and throws it at the blockade, instantly the brush is reduced to cinders and Magnus leaps over easily. She hears another thud of hooves from behind before someone suddenly barrels into her, sending both bodies crashing to the forest floor. The body above, pins one arm behind her back and pushes her helmet into the dirt, Get the fuck off!..Her magic flares as she hears the crunch of advancing boots all around her, there's the sound of scraping metal before a pair of rugged leathers stand inches from her face.
"Just kill him already!"
The alarmed bandit on top is desperate as she attempts to buck him off her back. Her magic meets its peak with no resistance from the collar and her eyes shimmer a deep red.."I'm a woman you fucking moron!"
"Oh really?" The man in front chuckles, kneeling down beside her.."What do you say lads? Should we have a little fun first?"
A range of dark seedy chuckles echos around the clearing and Morrigan snarls, ENOUGH!..She grits her teeth and lashes out to reach behind her quickly. She grasps the younger mans scruff and tugs harshly sending him tumbling forward and rolling over her head to land flat on his back. The second bandit staggers backwards as she launches to her feet aggrieved. He raises his sword only for it to be pried from his grasp by an invisible force and clatter to the floor several feet away. The sound of swords being drawn echos around her and shes finally had enough.
Red eyes scan the angry advancing bandits, six of them..well that's no fun..She lunges at the disarmed bandit, grabbing his throat and lifting him into the air. The rest of the outlaws rush at her but are sent flying backwards where they hit the ground heavily with a series of painful cries. She refocuses on the man in her grasp and with a flex of her wrist, the hidden blade in her cuff springs out and slices straight through his throat. His eyes bulge, blood dripping from his mouth before she grins and callously tosses the dead weight aside. A screaming bandit rushes at her but she whips her hand to the side, there's a loud snap and a second later, the mans body drops to the floor, neck broken.
Just as shes about to finish the bandits off, the Huntsman and several black guard rush into the clearing. The surviving two men attempt to flee but their running limbs are caught by roots, their screaming bodies dragged back to the center of the area. Morrigan raises a stern hand and both the boy and man rise from the floor, successfully immobilized in the air. Slowly the knight prowls, stealing dangerous glances at the Huntsman.
"I told you to protect the Queen!"
He stares at her placidly.."Yes you did but she told me.."
"To assist you."
Morrigan startles and spins towards the regal voice, That's twice shes snuck up on me today..She quickly drops to one knee, the Huntsman and black guard following her example.
"I felt a rise in your magic, but clearly.." The Queen looks disgusted at the dead bandits littered around the forest.."You have things handled. But I see you've left me a gift."
Morrigan glances at the woman's devilish dark brown eyes which are fixated on the two hovering bandits.
"I was just about to question them my Queen, but if you'd rather I kill them.."
"No no, resume your interrogation."
Morrigan stares as the royal ventures over to a fallen tree, sitting primly on the edge and watching intently, Okayyy..Morrigan stands hesitantly and faces the scowling outlaws. She pulls at her anger, willing it to resurface and fuel her magic, Right where to start..Furious red eyes identify each man and she quickly picks up on the younger boys shifty nature, bingo..Slowly the boys lowered, his eyes continuing to avoid her.
"Who do you work for?"
Silence...Her hand rises, gently caressing the boys cheek and his eyes widen unnerved. The Queen however stiffens at the exertion, dark brown eyes flickering a slight purple.
"You will tell me who sent you.."
The bandits breath hitches, his body shaking as black veins snake from her touch, creeping over his cheek and neck, making his eyes water as he struggles for breath.
"I know someone sent you. Now be a good boy and tell me."
"I..I..."
"Leave him alone you fucking witch!"
Red eyes dart up at the other snarling bandit and she steps back, pulling her infectious hand from the boys cheek and letting him collapse to the forest floor. She slides in front of her other captive and with a wave, he slowly descends, hovering inches from the ground.
"If you want me to leave him alone, you'll tell me who your working for."
"I'm not telling the Evil Queens bitch a god damn thing!"
Morrigan slowly invades the mans personal space, her helmet almost touching his nose.."You know, I only need one of you alive to get what I want!"
"Do your worst bitch! I ain't telling you a fucking thing!" The bandit spits in Morrigans face making her flinch backwards.
An eerie silence washes over them, Morrigan slowly lowering her head, feeling the slimy liquid trickle down one side of her nose, the fuck spat at me!..The Huntsman edges forward uneasy, glancing at the captivated Queen who watches intently and raises a questionable eyebrow at her Knight.
Morrigan carefully scratches at the spit through her eye slots and wipes the residue from her helmet to study the cloudy green liquid. The atmosphere around the clearing is tense and ever waiting while her anger rapidly rises, The fuck spat at me!..A burning new anger flares within her and explodes.
Quickly she releases the man from his magical hold and when his feet touch the ground, she grabs his collar and punches him in the face repeatedly, YOU FILTHY FUCK!..The beating continues, her burning anger being sated with each bone crunching smash to the mans face. She punches again and again, oblivious to everything as the unconscious bandit drops to his knees but still Morrigan beats the now bloodied and broken face. His head flops backwards at every strike only to be pulled forward by the rough hand on his shirt.
"YOU DIRTY.."
Punch..
"FUCKING.."
Punch..
"TRAITOR!"
Punch..
The Queens eyes glow a hue purple as blood red lips twist into a savage grin and she chuckles darkly. Red electricity sparks around her Dark Knight, venturing out from the clearing while black guard take small hesitant steps away from danger, eager to avoid the red magic fizzing around them.
The Huntsman quickly steps forward, eager to end the brutal madness.."Captain!"
Blazing red eyes dart to the apprehensive Huntsman, heavily breaths resonating around the area, sweat pouring from Morrigans brow before finally, the red sparks rescind back into her body. She refocuses on the body in her grasp and roughly lets go of his shirt letting the lifeless carcass hit the earth with a heavy thump. Sharp red eyes quickly refocus and dart to the other cowering bandit. The boy looks at the broken body next to him and he scurries backwards. She rushes at him and clamps both hands onto his shirt. With one swift tug the boys lifted into the air, his face mere inches from her helmet.
"TELL ME!" Her wrathful voice booms in his face and fearful tears threaten to fall from petrified wide eyes.
"It was sir Rodrick! Sir Rodrick!"
The Queen approaches questionably.."Sir Rodrick?"
"Yes he..he didn't say why specifically, something about his fathers land but that's all I know I swear! Please I swear!"
The boy squirms in Morrigans grasp and she shakes him roughly, prompting a small whimper. The royal slides alongside the pair, smiling smugly.
"So Rodrick thought the six of you could somehow take down a whole squadron of my guards, myself and my Dark Knight in one foul swoosh?"
"We were told it was only supposed to be you and a couple of your personal guard."
"So when you saw otherwise you fled like cowards?"
The bandits silent a moment until Morrigan roughly shakes him.."Answer your Queen boy!"
"Yes!"
"Yes what?!" Her words are dangerous and low.
"Yes your majesty."
The Queen frowns, pacing a little.."It seems that I may have a traitor amongst my allies, you wouldn't happen to know who relayed my travel details would you bandit?"
"No your majesty I swear, we weren't.."
The Queen quickly raises her hand.."Shame.." She walks away, her interest in the bandit gone.
Morrigan growls, throwing him several feet into the clearing where he lands next to his bloodied companion with a loud shriek of pain.
"I think we have delayed enough...Captain?" Morrigan quickly refocuses on her Queen.."Clean up your mess dear and be quick about it."
The Knight bows and in a swirl of purple smoke, the Queens gone. Red eyes slide dangerously to the cowering boy, a fireball igniting in Morrigans palm as black knights hastily vacate the area.
"No wait! Please! Please don't kill me, I'll do anything!"
"You picked the wrong side traitor!"
"No wait!"
The fireball launches forward, setting the boys writhing body ablaze while loud agonizing screams echo throughout the Enchanted Forest...
Morrigan trots ahead of the convoy, the smell of burning flesh continuing to cloud her senses, that wasn't me..For the first time I think I caught a glimpse of the Queens Dark Knight. Its like I lost myself and..It just wasn't me..She enters the western village alone on horseback and immediately peasants begin to barricade themselves in their homes and duck behind any available carts. She slides from her black unicorn, hitting the ground with a thud and scanning the area, The village is too small for an army to be hiding here..Where's Snow White? She should be here by now..She lets go of her steed and wanders towards the village center with only silence to greet her.
"WHERE IS SNOW WHITE?!"
After a pause, she shouts her question again but still there's no answer , I don't want to start killing people..She sighs, fine..how about a little motivation..A fireball ignites in her hand and some of the peasants cry out, cowering further.
"SNOW WHITE, WHERE IS SHE?!"
"She's not here, Don't you know mi' Lord? This is the Dark kingdom."
Morrigan turns slowly, extinguishing the fireball in her hand to glare at the peasant stood proudly in the middle of the road, Is he fucking mocking me?..The man stands tall, stocky in build, probably a farmers boy..He has dark brown hair, vibrant blue eyes, and looks weirdly familiar..
"And don't you know with whom you speak?!"
"The Evil Queens Dark Knight, the Armour gave it away I'm afraid."
Morrigan grins under her helmet, I like it when they have fire..
"So you know who I am, its only fair you return the favor."
The man bows dramatically and green eyes immediately lock on to the small katana blade harnessed to his back. Morrigans shoulders tense as she unconsciously shifts into a defensive stance.
"Theon's the name, Theon Sindile at your pleasure.." He stands up smiling playfully.
Theon?..That name, those eyes..where?..
"But its not really fair is it? Now you know my name but I don't know yours."
"That's none of your business peasant!"
"I heard you were a peasant before the, you know..collar thingy."
He's beginning to piss me off! I like a bit of fire but he's crossing the fucking line!..Morrigan stalks towards him, watching how he reaches back slightly for the blade on his back. She laughs throatily and he frowns.
"You going to pull that sword on me little man? Go ahead! I give it thirty seconds before I rip you in two!"
Theon softens.."Listen, I don't want to fight you, but if you intend on hurting these people.."
"You'll WHAT?!"
He startles and quickly his hands dart up in peace.."Just listen will you! Snow White isn't here, why would she be? This is the Evil Queens Kingdom not hers!"
"Don't lie to me, Our scouts saw her heading for the village, she was supposed to be here by now so where, is, she!" Morrigan enunciates, taking a threatening step forward.
"Mi' Lord I'm telling you the truth. I wouldn't endanger this village and its people by lying to you. We haven't heard of Snow Whites approach, we don't know anything about her arrival in our village, I swear to you."
Morrigan pauses, the man seems genuine in his plea..He also seems like the heroic type that would throw himself in front of a defenseless peasant given the chance, but then again, he might be lying to cover his own ass or protect Snow White..
"Okay, say I believe you, why are you brandishing a weapon? Are you expecting a fight?"
"No, well hopefully not. I'm hoping that now you've seen that Snow White isn't here you'll just leave."
She chuckles darkly.."Then your even more stupider than you look."
"Hey, I take pride in what I wear, the leather vest attracts all the ladies." Theon gives her a sly smile and a wink.
"Well I hate to be the one to ruin such an attractive vest but hey, I hear leathers out this season." Morrigan pulls her black blade from its sleeve, the sly smile on Theon's face disappearing as he follows suit.
"So you really want to do this?"
She chuckles again, pointing the tip of her blade at his heart.."Defiantly!"
Morrigan charges, her steps carefully calculated towards the unmoving man. Her black blade tumbles forward, meeting silver steal above his head. Quickly he pushes back, attempting to kick her, she side steps efficiently but the leg swings forward kicking her in the stomach. Recovering quickly, she dodges an elbow to the face and sends a punch of her own, striking him in the jaw. The man rolls to ground and is back up on his feet in a flash.
"Careful.."
Morrigan chuckles, taunting as he rushes at her enraged. They dance blade to blade, neither gaining on the other until Theon's footing falters causing him to fall to one knee. She slashes down quickly but he blocks and she forces him to the ground, pushing both blades towards his face. His legs kick at her sides but she kneels on his stomach continuing to apply pressure. She can see panic in vibrant blue eyes and pauses, Vibrant blue eyes stare at her, someones laughing, shes running through the trees, a smiling boys face with vibrant blue eyes..Theon grabs one of the horns on her helmet and she snaps from her daze. Quickly he pushes the blades from his throat and pulls her forward. She tumbles into a somersault, her helmet pulled from her head and back slamming into the earth. Recovering quickly, she jumps to her feet, snarling and he darts backwards.
The man pauses, analyzing her face and his mouth drops open.."Morrigan?!"
She freezes, her snarl receding, What did he just call me?..
"Morrigan is that you?"
Vibrant blue eyes stare knowingly and Morrigan takes a step backwards alarmed, How does he know my name?!..
"H..How do you know that name?"
"Its me, Theon. We used to play together when we were kids before our village..before it..was destroyed."
She can easily see his distress, blue eyes withholding such painful and horrific moments, when we were kids? This doesn't make sense, everyone died..
"No your lying..Everyone died."
He takes a small step forward.."Not everyone did, a few of us made it out. Most of us came here for a fresh start. I was taken in by a farming couple over ten years ago. I even saw..I saw Brendon, he's still out there."
Her head drops.."No he's not, he..he died."
"I'm so sorry Morrigan.."
"STOP TALKING! YOU DON'T GET TO CALL ME THAT! THAT'S NOT ME ANYMORE!"
Glassy green eyes clamp shut, I'm not that girl anymore! I'm the Dark Knight! The Knight Captain of the black guard and the Dark Kingdom! I'm the Evil Queens..I belong to the Evil Queen..Tears trickle down her cheeks as she painfully claws at her scalp.
Sad blue eyes look at the helmet in his hand.."Gods Morrigan..what has she done to you?"
Morrigan whimpers, turning away from the man when the sound of trampling hooves echos within the village. Two dozen black guard suddenly appear, exploring the area, cutting off every exit, pulling screaming citizens from their homes and surrounding the village. The Huntsman makes a B-line for the knight, signaling his men to disarm and restrain Theon. When he slides to Morrigans side he pauses, shocked by the wavering woman. She releases a shaky breath, her tears drying up as she stares aimlessly at nothing, fate is my constant tormentor..why is this happening to me. Haven't I suffered enough..
The Queens carriage comes to an abrupt stop just shy of the clearing and the black door crashes open. The angry royal stalks forward, her long red and black dress trailing in the dirt. Dark brown eyes dart from place to place, first spotting the helmet at Theon's feet and then an unmoving Morrigan who still has her back facing the scene.
Theon lashes out, black guards pulling at his arms.."What the hell have you done to Morrigan?!"
The Queen frowns deeply, her focus flickering from her knight to the man.."And who might you be to ask such questions?!"
"I'm her friend! Now what have you done to her?!"
The royal laughs bitterly.."Friend? She has no friends, especially not pathetic peasant blood like you!"
Theon snarls, struggling fiercely with his captors before his attention darts to Morrigans back desperately.."I am your friend Morrigan, I do care about you! Don't let the Evil Queen.."
The Queen flicks her wrist and the mans mouth slams shut.."I think that's enough out of you! Captain?!" All eyes coast to the unmoving woman and the royal growls her impatience.."Captain?!"
Silence...
The Queen narrows her eyes.."I'm in no mood for games Morrigan!"
The malice in the royals words is fearful to most but Morrigan continues to stare into nothingness until a shooting pain snaps her back to reality. Again it wracks through her body, making her stumble forward as her hand clutches her chest painfully, What the hells happening?!..She spins and is greeted with her furious Queen. Wide green eyes dart to the red and black beating organ in the woman's palm, Is that?..The look of disgust on the royals face prompts a shiver.
"Look at you! Your pathetic! A peasant says he wants to be your friend and it reduces you to this?! Did you even kill Snow White?!"
Morrigan glances over to Theon who's violently trying to escape as he moans in her direction, Theon?..Green eyes flash with concern and the Queen snarls, squeezing harshly on the heart in her hand. Morrigan doubles over in pain, gripping her chest and whimpering in protest.
"LOOK AT ME!"
Her head quickly snaps up and Theon moans desperately in the background. With a roll of brown eyes, the Queen waves her hand, unsealing his mouth.
"There is no Snow White!"
The royal turns menacingly.."What?!"
"Morrigan.."
The Queen snarls, the pressure on Morrigans heart increasing and the knight falls to her knees. Theon quickly reassesses his words and tries again.
"The Dark Knight asked me the same thing before we fought. She said that your scouts said Snow White was to venture here, but I swear you were misinformed. She hasn't been here and she isn't coming, I assure you your majesty!"
The Queen studies him, picking the man apart with her intense glare.."Who exactly are you anyway?"
"My name is Theon Sindile, myself and Morr..your Dark Knight, we know each other from long ago."
"Oh? How so?"
Don't tell her please! She'll kill you..Morrigans pleading eyes lock with his.
The Queens eyes flicker back and forth between their concern and she squeezes harshly on the heart again. Morrigan cries out, falling onto her hands and knees.
"KILL HIM!"
Black guard pull Theon forward, kicking him harshly to his knees while his head is pulled outwards and a sword is positioned at the base of his neck.
NO!..With a grunt, Morrigan quickly climbs to her feet, avoiding the startled Queen and stumbles towards the execution.."Stop!"
The guard hesitates, eyes flicking from his stumbling Captain to his enraged Queen. The royal growls, squeezing harshly on the heart and Morrigan cries out in agony, falling to the dirt a few feet from Theon. Glassy green eyes slide to sad vibrant blue as he smiles down at her and the sword is lifted once more.
"Wait! Please!"
Again the blade stills but this time by the Queens hand. The woman steps in, looming over her knight who in return shifts her pleading focus upwards.
"Please..I'll do anything."
The plea is but a whisper and the Queen softens.."Very well, I will not kill your little..friend.."
The word is like acid spewing from the woman's mouth as she holds out her hand and is respectively passed the blade. Morrigan holds in her sobs, her forehead gently pressing into the dirty ground and eyes closed in content, she listened, the Queen actually listened. Theon will probably be imprisoned for the rest of his life but he'll be alive..A loud clatter makes her jump, green eyes flying open and she stares at the sword laying next to her in the dirt.
"I wont, but you will."
Morrigan stares horrified.."No wait, please.."
The royal raises the beating heart to her mouth.."Pick up the sword."
Like a puppet Morrigan obeys, her hand darting out and wrapping around the hilt.
"On your feet."
Again she obeys without protest, launching to her feet. She tries to pull forward her magic but the collar burns at her throat, pushing it back down with savage shocks.
"Raise the blade."
The blade raises above Theon's sad smile.."Its okay Morrigan."
A sob slips from her, a gentle tear rolling down her cheek.."I'm sorry.."
"Relieve him of his head!"
Green eyes slam shut as the blade swings down, severing Theon's head from his body. All she hears is a slurp as the blade slices through flesh, two thumps and the anguished cries of villagers. She inhales sharply at the sudden pain in her chest and bends backwards painfully with the sword slipping from her grasp. She can feel the Queens hand clutching her heart firmly and whimpers when the organ is squeezed roughly in her chest.
"Huntsman?!"
He quickly stands to attention, marching forward and bowing.."Yes my Queen?"
"I'm returning to the palace with the Captain, clean this place up and then return immediately!"
"What about Snow White?"
"It was all a ruse, probably enacted by Sir Rodrick for that pathetic excuse of an ambush earlier!" A few startled villages sob from hiding spot and the Queen frowns at her audience.."Oh and before you leave, kill the villagers."
The Huntsman recoils and Morrigan tries to pull away but the hand in her chest quickly pulls her back against the Queens front, she's going to kill all of these innocent people?..
"My Queen?"
"Thanks to the Captain here they've witnessed her weakness, and if she appears weak, then that makes me weak! Now do as I say and leave not one person alive to speak of today's events!"
"Yes your majesty." With a nod, the Huntsman retreats back to his men and barks the royals orders.
Morrigan can feel the hand around her heart squeeze as her body's pressed further into the Queens front.
"I think its about time we had a private chat, don't you?!"
Before Morrigan can reply, there's a swirl of purple smoke and they disappear from the massacre that has yet to come.
When the Queens magic fades, Morrigan attempts to step forward only for the hand in her chest and her back plate to be pried from her body. She gasps, stumbling forward and catches herself before she falls flat on her face.
"YOU MADE ME LOOK WEAK!"
The front of Morrigans chest plate is torn from her body, sending her tumbling to the marble floor in the Queens bedchambers.
"YOU DISOBEYED ME AGAIN!"
Green eyes glance behind her fearfully as Morrigan scrambles to get away from the ferocious Queen. Her shoulder guards and chain mail are ripped from her body, flying in either direction in the room, She's fucking insane!..Spotting a door to her right left open, she quickly stumbles to her feet and sprints towards it. A deep bitter laugh echo's around the room, her heart leaps into her throat and tears pool in alarmed eyes, Almost there..The door slams shut and she crashes into it, clawing at the wood hysterically and prying at the door knob, Fucking open!..Another evil laugh echo's around the room sending her hairs on end.
"There's no escape Morrigan! Your stuck with me forever!"
Morrigans body is torn from the door and she's send sailing backwards, crashing onto the marble floor. A sharp pain explodes in her shoulder but ignoring it, she pushes herself to her feet and backs away from the advancing Queen. She holds her arm out fearfully, green imploring eyes staring into black.
"Wait, Please listen to me.."
The back of Morrigans knees suddenly buckle and she twists to land on the bed behind her, Shit! Shit! Shit!..She quickly looks back to find the Queen suddenly stood right in front of her with a maddening grin. She shrieks in surprise and hastily turns, scrambling to the other side of the bed in an attempt to put some distance between them. Just as she gets to the other side, there's something wrapping around her booted ankles, pulling her back.
The Queen chuckles darkly at Morrigans struggle but the former bandit finally frees herself from her boots and scrambles forward once more. Tears stream from horrified green eyes as she's suddenly flipped on her back. There's something grabbing her ankles again and she cries out at being slowly pulled towards the royal with magic.
"No wait! Stop! Please I'm sorry!"
Pieces of silk wrap around Morrigans struggling arms and legs, pinning her down as the Queen climbs on top, straddling her waist. She screams in protest, attempting to buck the woman off but the Queen leans forward, staring inches from petrified green eyes.
"Regina, please listen to me.." She sobs lightly as brown eyes stare critically.
After a long pause, the Queen pulls back and glares.."I give you everything and still you fight me."
Morrigans sobs somber.."I only.." A clawed hand digs into her hipbone, eliciting a painful whimper.
"You were nothing when I first met you, you'd cavort with that forest filth, stealing to get by! You were nothing more than a common thief!"
Morrigan swallows harshly, I know this might kill me, but she wanted to talk, so lets talk..
"But I was happy."
The royal chuckles bitterly.."Happy? You call living in the forest foraging for fungus a happy life?"
"I had a family Regina.." The Queen pauses, snarling down at her.."And very briefly, I had...I had you."
Silence...Morrigan watches many emotions occupy the royal, sadness, fear, guilt, and then she sees a glimpse of that frightened young Queen she used to know. But as quickly as it came, it disappears and finally anger consumes the woman. She squirms uncomfortably when her bonds tighten.
"You never had me! You deluded yourself with the prospect of family and happy endings when there's no such thing! I had you right where I wanted you, I still do! I saved you!"
Tears roll down Morrigans temples as the royal slowly leans in, raking predatory purple eyes up and down her body.
"Regina..Wait.." Silk fabric snakes across Morrigans mouth as the Queen strokes lightly at the fabric on her stomach.
"I think the time for talk is over.."
The woman flicks her wrist and purple smoke surrounds them both, when it clears, Morrigan finds herself in the dress she was wearing the other evening and the Queens in a skin tight velvet blue dress. Green eyes look up pleadingly and she moans desperately.
The Queens eyes continue to evaluate the dress and exposed skin on Morrigans shoulders and neck.."Now where were we.."
The woman's hands begin to glow a soft purple and Morrigan begins to struggle, She cant do this! I need to talk some sense into her! My Regina is still in there somewhere!..She tries to free herself of the silk at her mouth as the Queens magic slowly begins to seep into her and she can feel her arousal building, I need to get the bitch off now!..She bucks wildly, sending the Queen stumbling forward against her. With a groan, Morrigan darts up from the bed, propelling both bodies off the sheets and onto the floor. Her silk bonds fall away as they both hit the marble with a painful thud and in an instant, Morrigans quickly launching to her feet and sprinting for the balcony doors, I'll climb down the side of the fucking palace if I have to!..The collar suddenly explodes with savage shocks making her legs buckle and once again sending her plummeting to the floor. Her body slides across marble as painful cries echo around the chamber.
"YOU DENY ME AGAIN?!"
"Regina.." Another shock sets her body alight and she sobs, what the fuck does she want from me? Why is she doing this?..
"I didn't know we were dropping etiquette dear! Have you forgotten the rules already?!" The Queen advances furiously, a small cut on her forehead leaking blood down her temple.
"Re..Regina.."
"You know what? I think I've had enough of your constant disobedience! I think I'll just take your heart and save myself the trouble."
Another shock rattles through Morrigans body but instead of a scream of pain, its one of anger. Instantly shes on her feet and centimeters from the startled woman's face.
"FUCKING LISTEN TO ME!"
The shocks from her collar slowly cease.
"You want me?! Fine! You can have me! Take my heart if it makes you feel better! It was yours to begin with before all this Evil Queen bullshit started! I don't know what the hell happened to you Regina but I'm sorry! I'm sorry I didn't come back for you, I'M FUCKING SORRY! But I have given you everything when you've taken so much from me! You destroyed my life you've broken my soul! I've killed for you, done everything you've asked since the first day we met but it..it seems like its never enough.."
Morrigans pleading onslaught falters, her voice cracking as tears continue to fall and the Queen listens intently.
"I don't..I don't know what you want from me, what else do you want, just fucking tell me! Just tell me please.."
Morrigan takes a step back sobbing, collapsing to her knees with a hand in her hair and whispering her entreat.."Tell me what to do Regina. Please..just tell me..."
The royal lays a gentle hand on her hair, pulling her forward with a flinch until her forehead rests on the woman's stomach and she grips the fabric at the Queens hip and back. Morrigan clings for dear life, hot tears marking blue velvet.
"I..I'm sorry.."
The apology is soft, gentle, and it should have startled her but it only increases her sobs, now she finally listens. It only took the shocking of my life and attempted rape for her to listen, but she finally listened..A few minutes pass and Morrigans cries somber as the Queen continues to utter soothing words in her ear.
"Shhh..come on."
The Queen gently pulls Morrigan to her feet, lacing their hands together and tugs the woman towards the bed. Morrigan slows her approach, whimpering as shes pulled onto the sheets.
"Its okay, just lie down.." The Queen lies on her back, pulling the woman into her embrace.
Taking shaky breaths, Morrigan apprehensively lays her head on the regal woman's chest and wraps an arm around the royals middle. An olive hand laces through her hair as the other stokes her arm in a soothing motion.
"I'm sorry Morrigan."
Green eyes slide shut, her tears drying up.."It..Its okay."
"No its not, I almost.."
Morrigan hears the woman strained heart and she squeezes at blue velvet lightly.
"It wont ever happen again."
Morrigan shifts, I hope not, not unless its mutual. I'm not the Huntsman..A few minutes pass where both woman lay together, content in each others arms.
"Could I.." Morrigan pauses, green eyes sliding open and aching body shifting uncomfortably.
"Go on dear."
"Could I..sleep..here tonight?"
Morrigan holds her breath feeling the Queen stiffen slightly and the hand in her hair pauses, I'm so fucking tired. I just want to sleep for a week..
After a breath, the royal finally speaks.."If you wish.."
Really?! Okay wow..The hand in Morrigans hair resumes its movement at a soothing pace, I know its crazy, especially after what just happened but I know she wont try anything again..I hope...And my damn shoulder is starting to seize..She frowns weakly, Am I just making up excuses to be close to the woman?..
"I'm sorry.."
"Its okay."
The Queen shakes her head weakly.."No, I'm sorry about your friend.."
Theon..Morrigans eyes water.
"I just..When I saw the way he looked at you it just..I was so angry."
"He was an acquaintance, that's all."
"But you still care for him?"
Morrigans eyes slip shut.."He was part of my past, there were things he could have told me, given me some answers but..I'm not sure if I really want to know."
"Oh?"
Morrigan hums.."Things are already complicated, I don't know if I could handle anything else. But he didn't deserve.." A tear leaks from her eye and seeps onto the Queens chest. The arms around her pull her closer as the Queen looks down guiltily.
"I can help you."
"I'm sorry, but I don't think that's possible."
The royal frowns, hurt passing through brown eyes.."Very well."
Several minutes pass and Morrigans breathing finally levels out. The Queen raises her hand and waves it over the woman's face. A stream of white and purple light flows gently from the former bandits forehead and into her hand. Morrigan shifts, frowning uncomfortably until the light eventually stops and she relaxes, falling into peaceful slumber. The Queen stares at the peaceful woman, brown eyes releasing a stray tear and shimmering with regret.
"I'm sorry Morrigan."
...