AN: Thanks for all the incredible responses! Keep them coming! I know replies get long, but I love that so many are still following me on the incredible journey that is this story. See previous chapter for explanation on realms. Now that the realms are united, everyone is on Storybrooke time and aging for adults is very slow due to the Chalice.
Thanks for the great reviews! Keep them coming! The feedback gives this story life, so please consider leaving a review! Unless you're a troll, because then your reviews get deleted. You can also follow me on Tumblr Lilacmoon83. All my stories, plus artwork is posted there, as well as all things Snowing and Charming family. So give me a follow!
This story is now updated bi-weekly. I love Finding You Always and this story is going to continue, but I want to give attention to my other verses that are not getting updated. So I hope you'll continue to enjoy this story and my other verses. As always, reviews on all stories are very much appreciated, so please consider leaving reviews. :)
There is also a love scene in this chapter. It is marked, so you can skip it if that's not your thing.
I also had a request for some face claims of original characters and villains. Some of those are on the artwork for the story when it's posted on Tumblr so some might have seen those. I've also added a couple, one for Hermes, the major, Nick and Angela since they appear again. But here's some written out face claims and names that can be googled for anyone that wants to.
Face Claims:
Leo Charming Nolan: Matt Lanter
Eva Charming Nolan: Bailee Madison
Summer Charming Nolan: Joey King(young) and Luna Blaise(older)
Bobby Charming Nolan: Logan Lerman
Christopher Sean: Dr. Paul Sakura
Aphrodite: a blonde Ginnifer Goodwin
Xander(Robert) Nolan Charming: David Cubitt(the actor they cast for Robert in canon)
Clayton(even though he's finally dead): Vincent Irizarry
Mephisto: Formerly, Henry Fonda. Newly – Jeff Kober
Amora the Enchantress: Laura Dern
Seth: Rami Malek (which pains me, cause I adore him, but I have based Seth on Set from Egyptian mythology as well as Typhon from Greek Mythology so using Rami Malek as an Egyptian God is too perfect). He is my favorite part of the Night at the Museum movies.
The Major, Patricia Donovan: Camryn Manheim
Zorro: Galen Gering
Nick: Danny Pino
Angela: Jordana Brewster
Hermes: Nakia Burrise
Prince John: Paul Giamatti
Sir Hiss: Jesse Eisenberg
JJ: Garrett Wareing
Nora: Mae Whitman
Queen Serenity: Sarah Michelle Gellar
King Endymion: Freddie Prinze Jr.
Apollo: Amir Arison
Artemis: Rachel Leigh Cook
Drizella Tremaine (1.0): Melanie Lynskey – Drizella Tremaine 2.0(Ivy Belfry) is still Adelaide Kane.
Rodmilla Tremaine: Angelica Houston
Johnny Clayton(Junior): Paul Telfer
Natalie Zearing: Melissa Roxburgh
Thalia Zearing: Stacey Haiduk
Hera: Melissa Archer
Zeus: Greg Vaughan
Dione: Arianne Zucker
Athena: Catherine Sutherland
Nyx: Selma Blair
The agents:
Agent Tessa Green: Sasha Alexander
Agent: Brian Dorsey: Scott Porter
Agent Danielle Harding: Ellen Tamaki
Sirius Clayton: Billy Zane
John Clayton(the first): Hank Azaria
John Clayton(the second): Thaao Penghlis
Malina Pizarro: Alicia Coppola
Dr. Hector La Guerra: David Dayan Fisher
Adam Rodriguez: Santo
Cote de Pablo: Irina
Zia: Camila Banus
The Dragon Queen(Zia Toryano): Julia Jones
The Dragon King(Esteban Zhu Ling): Michael Copon
Mendoza: Javier Bardem
Tao Xang Li: Jay Laga'aia
Queen Nubia: Nadia Bjorlin
If I missed any, let me know and I will add to the face claims. :)
Special Note: Since there is some question, technically, Leo and Eros are NOT related. On a DNA level, only James is related to David. Anchises is not and it will be explained how and why.
Here are individual responses to reviews:
Ghostwriter: Glad you love it and are enjoying it! Yep, a lot of craziness, never a dull moment!
SpartanAmyMiracleGirl10: Glad you're enjoying it :)
Jennifer Baratta: Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it! Yeah, I think everyone would be okay with Blue and Dr. LaGuerra losing their voices, lol. :)
Grace5231973: I hope Blue is bluffing too, but I don't see her going out without a fight. But we know that love will ultimately win and deliver justice. Glad you like seeing Aphrodite's past and you see how all the pieces fall together in this chapter. We also see the beginning of the plan to take down this evil cabal! :)
Guest: She very well might be! I answer that question in this chapter!
Number Ten: Yep, that's what it's looking like. That's what Clayton ultimately wanted, but without Clayton or Jr.'s influence, hopefully this one will turn out okay and maybe even break his family's cycle of evil. Yep, Blue has lost it finally. It is sad about Adonis, but we know this is another cycle that will be broken. I know, I like this Zeus. He's a jerk, but now we know why he is the way he is and that he wasn't always like that. Yep, there is always truth in conspiracy. Patricia kind of has to choose the Charmings if she wants to survive, but she does genuinely care about them and they her. :)
Everlasting Delena19: Aw, thanks! Glad you enjoyed!
Naomi Blue: I know, Nora is the worst. Yeah, she probably is, but optimism is a Charming trait. We'll see when it comes to Nora. Glad you're enjoying it :)
Sexystarwarslover: Yes, Leo and Elsa's wedding will be epic! Blue is horrible and hopefully will go away permanently soon. Yeah, Snowing are the doting grandparents. We needed a sweet little moment like that. Yes, Lucy and Hope will be adorable flower girls. I know, I'm shipping JJ and Summer too and I like that Bobby has a new friend his age. Yep, Snowing romance time, except with a brief interruption. Yep, this shadow government is really evil. Hera is definitely an evil step-mother and Blue is deranged. I know, I hate this curse too. Poor Aphrodite, but at least we know she'll eventually get happiness. Good question, I'm not sure what movie they saw. Yeah, Nora continues to be the worst. Yep, Snowing lovin' time! Fireworks will be fitting. Yep, Natalie is probably pregnant. Yep, Snowing is not going to show mercy to their enemies this time so hopefully Blue and the others get what's coming to them. Glad you enjoyed!
AnonSnowing: I know, grandpa and grandma Snowing are adorable. Yeah, Charming's senses to danger are highly sensitive after everything they've been through. Yes, this shadow government is evil and scary. Yeah, not surprising that they were connected to Clayton. Yep, that's why the chalice could save David from dreamshade. Aphrodite somehow knew to make sure it could save her charges, even if she didn't remember exactly why. Yeah, their real lives are like a movie, lol. The podcasts are interesting, but Nora is annoying and wrong for sure. Yeah, no more mercy for villains. Time will tell with Thalia, but she does love her daughter. Scuttle probably came over with the good curse and became human. Yep, the Frozen Hunter wedding should be great! Yep, it's looking like Natalie is pregnant. Without Clayton and Jr.'s influence, this child can be good though and break the cycle of their evil. I know, poor Aphrodite. Yep, divine spark...that's Snowing for sure! Yep, James had two past lives. I could have wrote more, but that would take forever. Three is a good number. Yep, Johnny might have been trying to impregnate her. Yep, Blue is the worst. Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it!
Finding You Always
Chapter 220: Plans and Plots
David pulled up to the reserve in the truck and parked, before looking over at his wife. He reached over and took her hand, squeezing it gently. She looked at him and smiled.
"Are you sure you're okay?" he asked. She nodded.
"I'm not going to let that horrible, judgmental woman get to me. I just can't believe she had us so utterly fooled," Snow lamented.
"I mean, even after we found out that she lied about the wardrobe, we were willing to forgive her, having no idea that she caused Aphrodite and your brother so much pain," she continued.
"And that she actually tried to destroy our sapling and when she couldn't do it, she planned to manipulate our rule had the curse not been cast," she said.
"I know...she's a snake and we didn't see just how evil she was. I guess it's true...sometimes evil can be staring you in the face and you have no idea," he replied. She nodded.
"But she's locked away and she's not getting out. She'll have her tribunal and then she'll never be able to hurt anyone again," Snow said. He nodded and kissed her tenderly.
"Come on...we have a wedding to plan," he said and she smiled happily, as they got out of the truck and trekked into the reserve, hand in hand.
They arrived in time to see Elsa using her powers to create some ice sculptures and it was very impressive. She had several different animals, including dolphins, wolves, and even a Phoenix and a Pegasus. All were complete with their own personal little cooling cloud to keep them from melting as well.
"Wow...all these look great, honey," Snow said, as she and Elsa shared a hug.
"Thanks...we're really excited for tomorrow. I'm just surprised that you've pulled it together so quickly," Elsa said. Snow had hired a team of nearly two dozen people, who arrived that morning to begin setting up. Trucks were still arriving with chairs, flowers, and everything else needed for both the ceremony and reception.
"Well...it helps when you're Mayor of Storybrooke and Queen of Misthaven. The resources are impressive," Snow said.
"Oh, is that the fireworks truck?" Leo asked, as they saw another truck pulling up.
"That's what you asked for," David replied.
"Yes...and the live musicians will be here to set up soon ahead of tomorrow too," Snow said, as they saw Frankie and Joe arriving.
"Well...the cake is done and safely stored in the refrigeration unit," Frankie said.
"He had extra batter and frosting, so he made cupcakes for you to sample," Joe said, as he opened a small box.
"Now that's what I'm talking about," Leo said, as he took one and fed a bite to Elsa first.
"Mmm...that has to be the best chocolate I've ever had," she complimented.
"She's right...you outdid yourself, Frankie," Snow agreed, as she and David shared one.
"Wow...that's really good," David said, as Leo dug in for another one, clearly impressed as well.
"It's what I do," Frankie said gleefully.
"You ready for the big day?" Joe asked. Leo and Elsa shared a smile.
"More than ready," Leo replied, as he put his arm around her.
"Well...we gotta get back to the diner, but we'll see you all for the rehearsal dinner tonight," Joe said, as they made their way back to their car.
"Well...shall we take a tour and make sure the team has everything on schedule?" David asked, as he offered his arm to his wife. Snow hooked her hand on his elbow and they began their trek with Leo and Elsa following. It wasn't long though until David's phone rang.
"Sheriff," he answered.
"David...it's Bashful. I think you need to come to the morgue. There is something you need to see," he said.
"What is it? Is it about the body Fandral said was found washed up on the beach this morning?" he asked.
"It is...and there are some disturbing things that definitely points to murder," Bashful replied.
"I'll be right there," he said, as he turned to Snow.
"I have to go," he said regrettably.
"He's killed again, hasn't he?" Snow asked.
"I don't know yet," he replied.
"Yes you do...I can see it on your face and I'm coming with you," she insisted.
"No...you should stay and plan the wedding. I don't want this ugliness to spoil the day," he said.
"And it won't...but I have to know. I won't run from him anymore," she said sternly. He sighed and took her hands in his own.
"Okay…" he agreed, as they hugged their son and Elsa.
"We'll see you both tonight at the diner," she promised, as they joined hands and headed back to the truck.
Flashback
Aesop sat in his study and sighed deeply, as he finished the latest entry as the author, or at least his latest entry into the secretive account of the Goddess Aphrodite's life. He had received the appointment as the author from Merlin himself, centuries ago, to be the author. But not long after that, Zeus himself paid him a visit in this very study.
He explained the black curse placed upon his daughter and her true love and how the true account could not be included in the standard story books. But Zeus requested that he make a version of the book with Aphrodite's true history included. He had done so and the book was cloaked with magic in his study.
He sat back and turned his attention to the recent works of his apprentices and disappointment lodged itself in his stomach. The work of the Grimm brothers was very disappointing. As part of their training, they were to take stories already written or predestined and give their own spin on them. But he found their work to be very disappointing. Instead of keeping the overall theme of true love as central to the stories, which was required of the author, they instead liked to turn the stories into dark and gritty tales that had a jaded view of love and sometimes eliminated the happy ending altogether. Their tales were overwhelmed with violence and even death. It was absolutely unacceptable and he needed an apprentice that he could trust with the official versions one day.
He heard them come in and quickly hid the official master books on the shelf behind his desk. Thanks to the magical nature of the shelf, the books were immediately cloaked for ensured safety and he sat back down at his desk, just as the brothers came into his study.
"Did you get a chance to read our latest?" Jacob Grimm asked.
"I did...please be seated," Aesop replied.
"Worthy of publication...especially our latest," Wilhem Grimm said.
"I am afraid I have to disagree," Aesop said and both men frowned.
"What do you mean? Our work is superb," Jacob argued.
"While well written...it flies directly in the face of everything I believe a story should be," Aesop said.
"It's real...a lot more real than those fairy tales you write!" Wilhelm argued gruffly.
"True love and happy endings give people hope. That is what this world needs. People need hope in their lives and our stories should provide that," Aesop argued back.
"True love and happy endings is a farce! Giving people hope is cruel in this world!" Jacob said. Aesop sighed. He was well aware of the brother's terrible childhood and their parent's abusive relationship, which showed the opposite of love and did not end happily. He had hoped to show them that there were happy endings and true love was real through his real tales, but if had created further bitterness in the brothers.
"Few want to read about a fair princess making her enemy walk on hot coals to her death or the evil step-sister cutting off her toes to fit her foot in a slipper. And few want to read about a sleeping princess being violated or a mermaid dying of a broken heart when denied her love," Aesop said.
"What are you saying?" Jacob asked.
"I'm afraid this isn't working out...and I must terminate your apprenticeships," Aesop declared.
"You can't do this!" Wilhelm exclaimed.
"My decision is final," Aesop said firmly.
"We are to be the next authors! You will regret this," Jacob growled, as he grabbed their manuscripts.
"We'll publish our version without you and people will realize that your fairy tales are a farce and few actually get a happy ending," Jacob said.
"Hope is a lie...and people will appreciate our truth!" Wilhelm insisted, as the brothers stormed out. Aesop sighed and took out the master copies of his books, before going back to work.
Elias Grimm busied himself drying his glassware, as he skimmed through a tattered manuscript; a manuscript that no one would ever buy or give the time of day, despite his famous last name. Since being in the Land Without Magic, he had shopped it around to publishers in many states in the last few years, but no one wanted his versions of famous fairy tales. They all wanted to keep reading Henry Nolan Charming's now famous and widely published Once Upon a Time, the real version of the stories, about true love and hope. Few had little interests in his writing after what Aesop had done to his ancestors. Any popularity of his ancestor's versions of fairy tales had always been short lived or had small, insignificant cults of fans. And any popularity he had once enjoyed as a Grimm was gone now since the author's book hit the mainstream more than seven years ago. So here he was, just like he had been most of his adult life, stuck in his bar, serving scummy patrons, and watching the supposed righteous reap all the glory.
And in other news, it looks like Henry Nolan, grandson of the infamous Snow White and Prince Charming, has finally agreed to release a continued version of his book, which has entranced the masses and told all the prominent stories in the United Realms. His first book, as most know, ends after the events in Seattle seven years ago. After calls from fans, he has agreed to release the events that have happened where the last book ended," Goldie reported.
"Yes...and he has also said he will donate all the profits to charity, just like he has done with his previous book. Man...those Charmings are something," Le Fou commented. Elias clenched his fist and poured himself a shot, before drinking it.
"You seem angry," Jekyll mentioned, as he came in and Elias poured him a drink.
"Just tired of living in the shadow of every author…" he mentioned.
"Ah…I suspected by your name that you were such," Jekyll said.
"Aesop ruined my ancestors' lives and my family never truly recovered from it," Elias replied.
"Where have you been? You're sweaty and filthy," he mentioned.
"Yes...one of my experiments went wrong and the subject expired. I had to get rid of the body," Jekyll replied.
"That's unfortunate...and grisly," Elias mentioned.
"Such is the nature of my work, usually," Jekyll said in a nonchalant manner.
"And in more news, it appears that tomorrow night, a very royal wedding will be taking place," Le Fou said, as two images appeared on the screen.
"Yes...Queen Elsa of Arendelle is to wed Prince Leo Charming in a grand ceremony and reception at the Storybrooke Animal Reserve. It is expected to be the event of the year,"
"Another fairy tale wedding," Grimm said bitterly, as he did another shot.
"Perhaps it doesn't need to be," another voice said, as the two men turned to see a dark haired woman standing there in a green dress that left none of her cleavage to the imagination.
"Well, well, Drizella Tremaine...they finally let you out of the rubber room," Grimm said.
"I should have never been in there in the first place, but Snow White saw it necessary to ruin my life, while she gets everything," she replied bitterly.
"She is a formidable opponent," Jekyll leered, as he stared at her image on the screen.
"That's why I'm here...I think the three of us can benefit from a partnership, of sorts," she said.
"What exactly do you have in mind?" Jekyll questioned. She smirked.
"Chaos...starting with a little wedding crashing," she said gleefully.
"The Evil Queen once crashed Snow White's wedding...but she went soft and they became friends. I think it's high time for a new Evil Queen," she declared.
"Sounds like a story I might be interested in," Grimm agreed.
"Yes...it could be quite fun," Jekyll said, setting an ominous tone.
Flashback
Aphrodite stared up at the monstrous being in disbelief. He was supposed to have been dead. A few years ago, she had helped a northern Kingdom Prydain defeat a horrible evil known as the Horned King. She had thought at first that the Kingdom's heroes might have the potential to be her next charges. Sadly, while Taran and Princess Eilonwy did fall in love, there was no spark and she had gone back to Olympus. But with the threat of the Horned King returning, she had stepped in to help once again. But this time, the Horned King was even more powerful. Most of the Kingdom's soldiers, as well as its heroes, were out of commission. And Zeus refused to assist in any mortal matters these days, having washed his hands of them entirely.
"You cannot win against me this time, Goddess…" the Horned King rasped and she yelped, as he grabbed her arm. He stared into her eyes and she felt cold chills slither down her spine.
"You...there is a curse upon you. A black curse…" he said, confusing her. But before he could say more, there was a blur, as a figure emerged and the Horned King cried out, as one of his horns was sliced off. He let the Goddess go and she looked to her rescuer. She had never seen him before, but she knew a warrior when she saw one. He wore armor and wielded a sword expertly, as they circled each other.
"You'll pay for that, Soldier," the Horned King warned.
"Or maybe you'll be put down again...this time for good," the man said, as they engaged each other in a fierce duel.
"Hermes!" Aphrodite called, as the other Goddess appeared.
"We need to banish him...he's too dangerous to send to the Underworld," Aphrodite said. Hermes nodded in agreement and the Horned King roared, as his arm was lopped off next and he was at the mercy of this warrior's sword. The portal was opened behind him and the mysterious man took the opportunity to kick the Horned King into the portal, which swallowed him up, sending him into the All World River. The portal closed and the handsome warrior turned to her, before bowing with respect.
"Goddesses," he said, as his eyes met with Aphrodite's.
"Thank you...for saving me," she said.
"Prince James...of Misthaven," he replied, as Hermes smiled slightly. It had begun once again and it broke her heart that, while Aphrodite would enjoy a sliver of happiness again, it would likely be stolen.
"It is inconceivable!" Mr. Crane exclaimed, as he slammed his fist on the table. All of them were meeting in one place, which was a rare occasion, and they were only missing General Mendoza.
"How did we miss this? How was there a magical town here, under our noses, since 1983?" Ms. Reeves said.
"We know the answer to that...it was her lover, isn't that right, Ms. Stavros," Ms. Landers accused.
"Clayton was a powerful man and while I may have birthed his heir, he kept me at arms length," Ms. Stavros replied coldly.
"This Major Donovan has also gone completely rogue. She must be dealt with," Mr. Li said.
"And she will be," General Mendoza interjected, as he entered the conference room. They were at a private mansion on a private property, isolated from the world, who had no idea they existed.
"It's about time," Mr. Moreno said.
"Who is this? You know it is forbidden to bring outsiders to these meetings," Mr. Crane said gruffly.
"Oh this is a friend that came to aid us with our cause," Mendoza said.
"You brought a hired mercenary to this location? Have you gone mad?" Ms. Stavros asked incredulously.
"I did and there will be a cost for his valuable assistance," Mendoza replied.
"And what is that price?" Mr. Blaine asked.
"Oh...just the tiny matter of your souls," Mephisto said. Screams filled the room, but their resistance didn't matter and in mere moments, Mephisto had twelve new blackhearts in servitude to him.
David glanced at his wife, as they walked into the hospital and headed for the morgue.
"You're not going to change your mind on this, are you?" he asked. She gave him a look.
"Do I ever?" she asked, making him smile. They entered the morgue and found Bashful there, finishing up his report. There was a young woman on the table, covered up to her neck and Snow felt a lump lodge in her throat.
"Do you have identification on the victim?" David asked.
"I ran her through the new database that the Good Curse put into place and she came up. She's an unfortunate resident from Pleasure Island," he replied, as he put the image up on the screen.
"Marron Channing, also known as Crystal Starlight," he said, as they looked at her history.
"She was a stripper and more. Probably never had a chance since she was born into that," he said, as he read the information.
"How did she die?" Snow asked cautiously.
"It's gruesome," Bashful warned. She nodded.
"I know...but I need to know," she replied, as they followed him over to the table. He gently pulled the sheet down so they could see the wound on her chest.
"What the hell did this?" David asked.
"I don't know what it was...I haven't been able to determine that yet. But whatever it was...made her heart literally explode," Bashful replied.
"Oh my God…" Snow cried, as she put a hand over her mouth. David put his arms around her and dropped a kiss on the top of her head.
"Why...why would he do this?" she wondered.
"I don't know, my darling...but we will stop him," David promised.
"I assume you're talking about Jekyll and I think it's safe to say that he did this," Bashful said, as he held up a small glass jar. Inside was a wilting snowdrop.
"I found it in her mouth," he revealed. David sighed.
"Thanks Bashful. Go ahead and e-mail the report to us at the station," he said, as he led his wife out and held her close.
"He's a monster...he did this because of me," she cried.
"No...he did this, because he's a psychopath. This is not your fault, Snow and you know it," he replied. She sighed.
"I do not want young women dying in my Kingdom, because of me. And what was he trying to accomplish by making her heart explode? Some experiment?" she wondered.
"Well...he's deranged, so anything is possible and this tells me that he's definitely planning something. I will get him though," he said, as he touched the hilt of his sword.
"Last time, we used the chalice to defeat him and we'll do it again. Only this time, we'll use the full power of it and make sure he's not just dead, but erased from existence," he added.
"The same fate as Hades," she murmured.
"I know it's drastic," he said, as he cupped her beautiful face in his hands.
"But it's the only way you'll ever be safe so I won't hesitate," he said.
"Do you think the Chalice is enough? I mean...he's like Mephisto now and we know he's still alive too. Are we missing something?" she wondered. He looked thoughtful at that.
"Maybe...let's visit Rose and Fandral. He knows the most about Mephisto and has faced him before. Maybe he can elaborate," he suggested. She nodded, as they joined hands and left the hospital.
Flashback
"We are forever grateful to your son, Your Majesty. His slaying of the Horned King saved and liberated all of Prydain," Princess Eilonwy said.
"My son is an extraordinary warrior," George boasted.
"I was honored to help," James said, as his eyes kept drifting to the Goddess that stood with Prydain's rulers.
"Now...there is just the little matter of reward for my son's hard work," George said.
"Father...there is no need for an award. I would have helped, regardless of the subject of payment," James hissed.
"Quiet boy," George hissed back. James felt his temper spike at that and stormed out.
"Forgive him...while he is a valiant warrior, he is still just a foolhardy boy," George said, as he went back to discussing the subject of gold with Prydain's rulers. Aphrodite, however, watched the Prince go and followed. George was definitely the typical, war mongering, gold hungry King, who had obviously used Prydain's predicament to capitalize on an opportunity for monetary gain. And he seemed to be using his son to do it, much to the Prince's chagrin.
"It does not feel good to be used, does it?" she asked, as she followed him into the garden. He turned to her and their eyes locked, a tension passing between them.
"No...but I'm too weak to refuse his war games," he lamented.
"From what I just saw, you're anything but weak. It takes a lot of courage to object to a King like you just did, even if he is your father," she responded. He sighed.
"He just loves using my skills to extort gold from less well defended Kingdoms...but I want more in my life than just that of a warrior," he replied.
"He seems like a very harsh man," she said. He snorted.
"You have no idea...he's the worst. All my life, he drilled into me that I was expected to be a ruthless, unforgiving warrior for my Kingdom and when the time came, I would marry for the best deal," he replied.
"Arranged marriage...yeah, can't say I'm a fan of that either," she said.
"You were in an arranged marriage?" he asked curiously.
"My brother, Zeus, gets tired of the Gods and mortals fighting over me. It's really annoying and I guess it's the whole Goddess of beauty thing, and he wanted me to be safe. So he tried to marry me off to Hephaestus...who is a sweet man, but I refused, because I'm just not in love with him," she replied.
"That's how I feel...marrying someone I don't love twists my gut into knots," he admitted, as their hands brushed and their eyes locked again.
"I know that feeling," she said softly, as an awkward silence passed between them.
"So...they're throwing a ball tonight. Maybe I'll see you there and it will be slightly less miserable?" she asked. He smiled.
"Yeah…I wasn't looking forward to it, but a dance with a beautiful Goddess might definitely make it a little better," he agreed, as they heard George bellow to him and she watched him hurry away, feeling her heart skip a beat.
On the way out of the hospital, they got a call from Patricia, asking them to meet her at the diner. So they decided to go there and then just talk to Rose and Fandral later, since they would be coming to the rehearsal dinner as well. They arrived and saw she had coffee waiting for them, as they slid into the booth across from her.
"Thanks for coming," Patricia said.
"It sounded important...does that mean you have more information from outside?" David asked. She nodded.
"From agent Harding. I'm being stripped of my rank and was just fired from the FBI. I'd say General Mendoza realizes that I'm no longer working toward his cause," she said, a bit sadly.
"We're so sorry...that's not right," Snow said.
"No, but I expected it and knew what I was doing. There is most likely a hit out on me now too," she said.
"Then you can't leave the United Realms," David said.
"At the moment no, but I am willing to risk it to bring these people down and I believe, thanks to Agent Harding, I know who our first targets should be," she said, as she opened the folder and showed them photos of two middle aged people.
"This is Stefan Landers, heir to the Landers financial empire. This family has been involved in running the banks of this world for centuries. I also suspect their charitable foundations are trafficking as well," she said.
"Landers...that name sounds familiar," David replied.
"It should...you killed his father," Patricia said and it came back to him.
"Landers...that animal investor that tried to put his hands on Snow when we were in Atlantis?" he growled.
"That was him...and now his son runs everything," she said.
"And her?" Snow asked.
"The daughter of an investor that perished when the dome burst open in Atlantis. Her mother was Elaine Mercer. She made her millions by marrying into it and then seeing to it that her husbands had unfortunate accidents. Mercer was her last and they orchestrated most of the trafficking in Europe, under the guise of a highly successful modeling agency, of course," Patricia said.
"I remember her...she couldn't wait to get her claws into my Charming," Snow recalled.
"Why these two first?" he asked.
"Because in a few days, Mercer Modeling is having one of their bi-annual fashion shows. I know for a fact that many young women are passed off as models in these shows and then most are trafficked, never to be seen again," she replied.
"And these two will be there running it?" David asked.
"I've confirmed it. I can't determine if any of the other of the thirteen will be there. They tend to not gather in more than two or three at a time in any one place, but it's a start," Patricia replied.
"A good start...so where is this fashion show going to be?" Snow asked.
"Milan, Italy...three nights from now," Patricia replied. David sighed.
"Well...then we have to go. Can you get us in?" he asked.
"Agent Harding is taking care of the arrangements as we speak and I know it's asking a lot, but taking these two down really will be for the betterment of humanity," Patricia replied.
"We want to do this," Snow agreed.
"Until the thirteen heads are cut off this monster...then the rest is yours," David said.
"Agreed," she replied, as Rose and Fandral arrived.
"Hey…" Snow said, as she and Rose shared a hug.
"We're glad you're here...we have some questions about Mephisto," David said, as they sat down.
"I take it that you have the autopsy results from the body of that young woman we found," Fandral said. He nodded.
"And I'm positive that it was Jekyll...he exploded her heart. How or why, we don't know," David said.
"My Gods...that's savage," Rose said in disbelief. David nodded.
"There was also a snowdrop left on the body, so we know it was him," he said, as he squeezed Snow's hand.
"Mephisto usually steals souls. He's never had much interest in hearts," Fandral said.
"Yes…I have no idea why he'd want to explode someone's heart. But…I may know someone we can talk to that has some insight into Jekyll's warped mind," Rose said. Fandral sighed.
"Hyde…" he said, with an eye roll.
"You cannot be jealous," she chided.
"I'm not...but the man is still in love with you. He's just not deranged about it in the way Jekyll was with you and is with Snow," Fandral replied.
"We are friends, nothing more, and he knows that. He'll be eager to help too," Rose said, as they stood up.
"We appreciate you talking to him," Snow said. Fandral nodded.
"Of course...anything we can do to help stop this madman," Fandral said, as he and David shared a nod and they left briefly to visit Hyde. Snow sighed and leaned her head against his shoulder and he pressed a kiss to her forehead, as they waited to hear back and for the rehearsal dinner to start.
Flashback
A portal opened up and two men walked through. It had been a long time since they had been back here, but had returned to their home world to resume their family's long tradition of collecting. But this time, their collecting would reach new heights, for they now had a place to house that collection.
"It's good to be home," John Clayton the second said.
"Indeed father," John Clayton the third agreed, though he tended to simply go by Clayton to save confusion.
"Now that Atlantis is ours and completely recreated, we can resume our family's mission and collect magical items and even beings this time," the senior Clayton said. His son smirked.
"Yes...it is too bad grandfather is not here to see us realize his vision. I only wish we were not denied Cibola," Clayton said.
"It is a pity, but not a permanent predicament. Once we have the chalice of Aphrodite, she will give us access," John replied.
"Is she as beautiful as they say?" Clayton acquired. John chuckled.
"Oh my son...she is a vision like you have never seen and finally, you will be the one to realize that goal as well," he said. Clayton smirked.
"Yes…I will. I'm very much looking forward to it. She will put up a fight, I'm sure," he said.
"Not to worry...once we capture her and imprison her in Atlantis, she will bear you an heir. A Demi-God heir that will cement our family legacy in infamy," John said.
A few months had passed since James had saved Prydain from the Horned King and became hailed as a hero. His father had gotten a nice settlement from the royals there, which he hated, but if it kept George happy, then that was in everyone's best interest. He continued his training as a warrior, but in secret, he engaged in a romance with the Goddess Aphrodite.
As often as he could, he sneaked away and met her at her small cottage just outside the Kingdom. He always disguised it as a training or hunting retreat and easily got away.
Aphrodite smiled, as they cuddled together beneath the sheets of her bed, following their passionate lovemaking, and she welcomed his lips on hers.
"I love you so much…" he rasped when their lips parted again and she caressed his handsome face gently.
"And I love you, my Prince," she cooed, as he kissed her again.
"Do you have to go home tomorrow?" she asked.
"Unfortunately...but I can still hold you all night," he replied. She smiled and kissed him again, as their passion consumed them once again.
Rose and Fandral arrived at the University hand in hand, easily finding their way to Hyde's classroom. He seemed to spend most of his time there, even when he didn't have students and Rose was glad that he had found purpose.
"Rose?" he asked, as they entered the classroom.
"We're sorry to bother you...but Fandral and David found something disturbing and we wanted to pick your brain about it," she said.
"You mean Jekyll has done something heinous again and you're looking for a how or why," Hyde replied knowingly. She bit her bottom lip and winced.
"It's quite alright...I will always help you, Rose Red," he said reverently. Fandral put the photo in front of him.
"We're nearly certain that he killed this woman and somehow, he did so by exploding her heart. We don't know how or why he would even have an interest in hearts," Fandral said.
"Well...I don't know why he would need a heart either, but he did try this once before," Hyde replied.
"He did?" Rose asked. Hyde nodded.
"It was early on, just as he came to the Land of Untold Stories. He was fascinated with how the Dark One had the ability to extract a heart from someone's chest without performing surgery," Hyde said.
"He developed a crude machine and tried to do it on a poor man. It ended much the same way it did for this young woman, only worse," he continued.
"And he did this just to see if he could do it?" Fandral asked in disgust.
"You know Jekyll...he has little regard for human life. When it comes to science, no sacrifice is too great for him, though I do not know what his purpose for extracting hearts this time would be," Hyde replied. Rose nodded.
"Thank you for the insight...it is helpful," she said.
"Yes...truly and for more than just this," Fandral said, as he looked at his wife fondly.
"There was a time that you helped save us both...despite your feelings. Thank you," Fandral said, as he extended his hand. Hyde looked at it and then shook it in return.
"She is a remarkable woman and I can live in peace, knowing she is happy," Hyde said. They nodded and left his lab to return to the diner.
Flashback
James dueled the pair of interlopers, just outside Aphrodite's cabin in the woods. He had left his castle for a "hunting retreat" and arrived at the cottage. But he was met with a rude intrusion, finding his beloved unconscious and two men plotting to take her away. He figured they must have surprised her somehow, because she was strong and her magic was nothing to balk at; evidence that this pair had a premeditated plan.
"I know how the laws of this land work...King George will never allow you to marry her," the elder man gloated. He had discovered that this man was called John Clayton and the young one was his son.
"I care little about what my father wants and you will not take her from me," James refuted. The younger one, Clayton smirked.
"Staying with her ensures your demise, Prince James...you just don't know it yet," Clayton said.
"Save your threats," James growled, as he slashed at them and their blades locked. They stared into each other's eyes, fire passing between them.
"She will bear me an heir...my family's line must be entwined with the chalice's," Clayton claimed.
"The chalice belongs to whoever she deems worthy of its power and I can say with pretty great confidence that you don't fit that bill," James said, as he heard Aphrodite coo and she slowly opened her eyes. She saw the duel before her and shot up, barely seeing it in time.
"James!" she cried. He turned in time to see John's ambush that would have killed him. Instead, he evaded his strike and his blade went through John's chest. He dropped to the ground, as James backed away.
"Father!" Clayton cried, as he cradled his father in his arms. He looked murderously at the pair, as James gently lifted his love to her feet.
"Are you okay?" he asked. She nodded and he kissed her forehead.
"You'll both pay for this! That is a promise!" Clayton seethed, as he tossed a bean down and carried his dead father through the portal. Aphrodite sighed and collapsed into his arms, crying softly. He noticed her ripped dress and cupped her face in his hands.
"My love...did he hurt you?" James asked. She shook a little, but then shook her head no.
"He attacked me and I felt a prick in my arm. It made me very woozy and I fought him. My dress ripped, as I tried to get away, but then I lost consciousness. He said he was going to take me to another realm; somewhere that I could not escape. He...he wanted to force me to have his child," she cried, as he held her gently.
"It's okay...you're safe now and I'll never let him get his hands on you again," he promised. But Clayton's threat left an ominous feeling in her gut.
Snow smiled, as their lips parted and she cuddled against him, with his arm around her. They were waiting for everyone to arrive for the rehearsal dinner to begin. They knew Rose and Fandral would return soon, but were not surprised to see Xander arrive with Thalia and Natalie.
"Father…" David greeted, the three of them joined them at the table.
"How was your first day at the museum?" Snow asked, watching Natalie light up.
"It was...incredible. Only I could be happy around a bunch of dusty old objects, but I was able to see things I've only dreamed of.. Thank you...both of you," she said sincerely.
"We're just happy that you've found where you belong," David said, as they shared a glance and a new ease passed between them. They still needed to get to know each other, but Snow knew this was just the beginning of a relationship for them.
"Any word from James?" Xander asked anxiously. David sighed.
"Not yet...I'm a little worried, but I think Hermes would let Rose know if there was a problem," he said, as Natalie suddenly excused herself and headed for the bathroom.
"Thalia...how are you adjusting?" Snow asked.
"Do you actually care?" Thalia asked in return.
"Thalia…" Xander chided.
"I know it's tough to believe...but yes. You are technically a part of this family now," Snow said.
"I was your enemy a few days ago...you've been burned by being too forgiving before," Thalia challenged.
"Mmm...we have, but we've also been rewarded. Regina was once our enemy, Hook too briefly, and even James was as well," Snow said, as she looked at her husband.
"We never regret showing mercy," she said, as he smiled and pecked her on the lips.
"Even when it comes back to bite us, but something tells me, this one won't," David agreed, sharing her smile. She turned her head and saw Natalie emerge from the bathroom.
"I'll be right back," she said, as she slid out and approached the other woman.
"Morning sickness is the worst," she murmured.
"Oh no, I was just…" Natalie deflected, as her sister-in-law looked at her knowingly.
"How did you know?" she asked.
"I'm a mother of five. I know it when I see it," Snow replied, as she put an arm around her.
"I can't be...not with his...what am I going to do?" she asked.
"I'll have Eva come by the castle tonight after the rehearsal dinner and we can go from there," Snow suggested.
"Okay...can you just not tell anyone? At least until later?" she asked. Snow nodded.
"We'll tell David and your parents, but not until after dinner," Snow agreed.
"That bastard...this is what he wanted," Natalie cursed, referring to her ex.
"Maybe...but this is still a baby and he's in prison. He's never going to get his hands on this child," Snow promised, as they returned to the table. The rehearsal dinner was about to begin.
Flashback
"I'm going to leave…" he said.
"James...are you sure? That Throne is your birthright," she replied.
"And I want no part of it if it means I can't marry you," he said.
"If gold is what he wants, I can magic him enough for a lifetime," she said.
"If only it was just that. But it's more about power for him. He has his sights set on Midas' Kingdom. He wants a merger, which means me eventually being forced to marry Princess Abigail," he replied. A spark of possessiveness moved through her at that and perhaps a tiny bit of jealousy. The thought of him being with another woman made her want to rage. But he would be forced to produce an heir, even if he continued to carry on with her in the shadows.
"I won't do that to you...I won't have my true love as my mistress. I will have you as my only," he said, surprising her.
"Reading my mind again?" she teased.
"It's all over your face. You hate Abigail and you don't even know her," he teased back.
"I don't hate her...it's not like it would be her choice either, I'm sure. I would like to turn your father into a snail though," she said. He laughed heartily.
"Go for it...he's barely a father," he replied.
"Where will we go?" she asked.
"Anywhere...you're a Goddess. But if you really can pull it off, then we should leave this realm. My father is a sore loser. He'll never stop hunting us," he replied.
"Hermes told me about a place...there's no magic there and it is very different. But she said it's peaceful. There are no royals or Kingdoms. Just people living their lives freely," she said. He smiled.
"Sounds too good to be true, but I'm certainly all for it," he replied. She smiled and kissed him, as they got dressed.
"I have to go to her Temple to summon her, but I'm ready when you are," she said. He nodded.
"I'll be here when you get back," he said, as he kissed her passionately and she disappeared. James heard a noise and unsheathed his sword.
"Show yourself!" he called into the darkness and was shocked to see his father and his lead Knight emerge.
"Hello son…" George said.
"How did you find me?" James demanded to know.
"I've had Knight Rivers tracking you and the Goddess on your excursions for months," George revealed.
"I'm not an unreasonable man. I wouldn't have cared if you kept her as a mistress. But you will not marry her, nor will you abandon your duty to your Kingdom," George said.
"I love her...what we have is far deeper than physical," James growled.
"Love is a poison...and I cannot risk the future of my Kingdom on love," George replied.
"You won't stop me," James challenged, but he was hit with a wave of blue fairy dust and fell unconscious to the ground, as the Blue Fairy emerged from the sky and became full sized.
"Are you sure this will work?" George questioned. She nodded.
"When he awakens, not only will all his memory of her be purged, he'll be easily malleable into whatever you want him to be," Blue said.
"Good...we may make a strong King out of him yet, once I beat all the love and good out of him," George said, as he looked at the head fairy, who was supposed to stand for good and love.
"And the Goddess?" he asked.
"Don't worry...she'll be dealt with as well. This isn't the first time I've destroyed her and it won't be the last," Blue replied. He looked curious at that.
"Why do you hate her?" he questioned and Blue glared at him.
"That's my business," Blue said, as she disappeared.
"Take him back to the castle. His reconditioning begins when he awakens. With true love purged from his soul...he'll be the ruthless King that we need someday," George said, as his lead Knight lifted the Prince onto his horse.
Blue reappeared in the Temple of Hermes and saw Aphrodite lying unconscious at Hera's feet.
"We have but a small window. Zeus and Hermes left the realm on an urgent matter, but I doubt they will be gone for long," Hera said.
"If Zeus finds out that the two of us and King George are directly responsible for destroying her true love once again, he'll make us wish for death," Blue warned. Hera smirked.
"He doesn't even know she was with him again. He has been too preoccupied with his own conquests lately and has left her to her own devices. He'll regret that," Hera said.
"We know why I hate her...but why do you?" Blue asked.
"You know why. Zeus never loved me or any of his conquests. Only Dione had his heart and therefore his precious spawn he had with her. I am always in the shadow of her beauty and goodness," Hera said.
"And if I will never have true love with her father...then she will never have true love with hers, no matter how many times Zeus brings him back," she added. Blue smirked.
"As long as she's in pain...that's all I care about. After what she did to me...I will make sure her immortality is spent in loneliness and pain," Blue said.
"We make a good team, as always," Hera agreed, as she poofed the water from the river Leche that she had acquired from Hades and forced it down the blonde's throat.
"Hermes will be back soon...we must go," Hera said, as they disappeared.
Hours Later
Zeus was fuming once again, for when he returned to Hermes temple, they had found Aphrodite unconscious. Athena had determined that water from the river Leche was administered to her, but they had no culprit. He had the usual suspects in mind, but he could not make accusations without proof; something he was sure the perpetrators were counting on.
"And you're sure they were together again?" Zeus questioned.
"I'm sure...I saw them," Athena replied.
"Why didn't you tell me?" he demanded to know.
"You've been a little occupied lately," she snapped in return and he scoffed.
"I am never too busy for my beloved gift...the only thing I have left of my Dione," he confessed.
"I know what people, Gods and mortals alike, think of me. And my daughter always pays for my sins and the hatred against me," he said.
"But no more," he continued.
"You are going to purge those facts from every book in this realm and every memory," he declared.
"Are you sure you want to do that?" Athena asked.
"It is in her best interest. Having me as a father brings her nothing but pain and when her true love dies again, as we know he will thanks to the curse, he will not be reborn this time," Zeus decreed.
"What!? Why would you do that to her!?" Athena cried.
"I cannot keep seeing her lose her true love! Even if her memory of him has been wiped away each time, the pain is still there in the fiber of her being. I cannot keep seeing her suffer," he said.
"And soon...she will have new charges. It's almost time. She will focus all her energy on them and perhaps they will not be utter failures like the Dragon King and Queen were," he added.
"Evil has had six hundred unhindered years to fester with none to stand for love and justice. Perhaps the only way to free her of this burden is to allow her true love to die so she can nurture and protect her charges this time from all they are facing," he said.
"They are coming into quite a challenging time," Athena agreed.
"But are you sure letting her true love stay dead is really the answer?" she asked.
"Yes...it's as I said. I cannot keep seeing her go through this and if I ever get the proof I need, I will go after the culprits. They will suffer," he promised. Athena nodded, as she cast a glance at her sleeping half-sister. She had always been Olympus' greatest light and had endured more pain than anyone should, mortal or immortal. If this spared her some of that pain, then she knew that was what they needed to do.
"And you're sure she'll never remember her entire past?" Athena asked.
"Not unless we allow it," Zeus replied. She nodded.
"Then it will be done," Athena confirmed.
James and Aphrodite awoke at last, memories restored completely, and curse broken. They looked at each other and hugged each other fiercely, as Zeus and Dione looked on fondly. The Collector, George, and Hera looked nervous and rightly so. They knew everything now and judgement was upon them...
