Trigger Warnings: Self Harm...
Storybrooke:
Regina had finally managed to clean the blood from her front yard and sent the mutilated bodies of the pathetic mob to the Morgue, If Morrigan had to dismember somebody, why couldn't she do it away from my property!..Regina lounges in her living room, sipping frequently at a glass of red wine. Her thoughts flash back through earlier events and a gnawing guilt sets within the back of her mind, What I did was right but still..I think I went too far. The whole incident is just a reminder of my Evil Queen days..She shifts, taking a heavy swig of her wine and staring into the fireplace. Her eyes glance up noticing a hole now pierced in the elegant painting above and she frowns, Damn, I love that painting..She raises her hand to use magic but pauses, her thoughts drifting back to Morrigan, The woman was unstable today, the raw power she displayed was almost frightening. Maybe I'm going about this all wrong, maybe controlling her with such methods will only cause more problems than solve. Back in the Enchanted Forest I had a better hold on her, magic was stronger, the darkness was stronger, but here things are different and I have Henry now..
Regina finishes the last of her wine and heads to the kitchen. Discarding her glass in the sink, she leans on the edge of the counter looking absently out of the window and into the darkness, I don't know what to do. Feelings have started to resurface, memory's of when we first met, the night she saved me, the night we almost..kissed..She slams a hand on the worktop, No! I cant think about any of it! I have to protect my son whether he loves me or not!..I'll check on her in the morning, there hasn't been a call regarding her killing habits so things must be alright..And with that disturbing thought, Regina heads upstairs to try and sleep, to battle with the nightmares of her latest entrapment..
Emma sits on the sofa in the apartment clutching a cup of hot Coco with Cinnamon. The movie her and Henry were watching, back to the future part three, is almost over on the 28 inch box television, Henry went to bed half an hour ago since he's got school in the morning, but it didn't stop him eating like hippo..The wrappers of candy and chips messily occupy the coffee table and pink lips smile weakly, Me and the kid had wolfed the candy down and issued a major sugar rush for the past hour. Really no one got to enjoy the movie as we kept pointing out flaws in the story. Mary Margret had gone to bed not long after Henry and David is still at the station..Emma's smiles slips, I haven't gotten a call from him saying Morrigan has escaped or killed anyone so I guess that's good..She frowns, whats the deal with Regina and Morrigan? I can tell their relationship goes deeper than what the mayor made out. And whats the strangers deal with David anyway? It seems they have some serious history. I need to remember to ask him about it, maybe then I can finally get some damn answers..
The blond takes a big gulp of her drink, savoring the sweet flavor while her mind settles on the former Queen, will she be alright on her own? Well three people were killed on her doorstep today, I'm pretty sure the news has already spread so attacking the mayor again would be a death wish. She'll probably be fine but I'm still going to investigate the assault whether Regina likes it or not..Disturbing images of the cowering mayor flash in her mind and she cringes, she was so..fragile..delicate, far from the power mad, ass kicking dictator Ive known..And all of those cuts and bruises..She shivers, God knows what they did to her down there..With that disturbing note, Emma heads to the kitchen and discards her dirty mug in the sink, Screw it, I'm going to bed. David wont be back until late anyway. Hopefully tomorrow we can sort a few things out..Emma yawns, dragging herself upstairs to try and sleep away the days events...
The next morning Morrigans weary eyes flutter open and she shifts at the aching throughout her stiff muscles, my body's a mess, but at least I feel a little lighter. The pressure of using magic's finally died down a little and I feel less murder'y, I guess I can count that as a win..She rolls onto her back suddenly realizing where she is and sighs, Still in this damn cell. Part of me wishes I was dreaming the events of yesterday. I killed those men, endangered the Queen, endangered everyone..Tears gather in despondent eyes, why is this happening to me? During the curse I worked as a horse trainer, I was happy and rarely angry but ever since the curse broke and I got my memories back, years of torturous discipline kicked in and now I'm a monster again..Its not fair..Why cant I be happy, why cant I have love, Why cant I have my daughter back..A single tear rolls down her temple before its quickly wiped away at the sound of heels clicking on stone followed by strenuous conversation.
"Ive already told you Miss Swan I don't wish to pursue the issue!"
"But whoever they are will just keep coming after you! And you cant just let your guard dog kill them all!"
Morrigan sits up, quickly wiping away the evidence of her dismay and gets to her feet, I swear to god if she carries on calling me a guard dog I'll beat her to death with her own gun!..
"And Ive already said I can handle myself!" Regina pins Emma with a stern glare, effectively ending the conversation.
Emma huffs her objection and walks to Morrigans cell, pushing a take out cup and bag towards the woman.
"Here, I dunno if you ate at Regina's yesterday but David said you didn't eat anything last night.."
Morrigan just continues to observe stoically and Emma sighs, placing the bag and cup in the cell.
"You'll eat it sooner or later."
"You don't know how strong her resolve is Miss Swan, don't underestimate her." Regina slides in next to the blond, keeping a watchful eye on their prisoner.
"You mean like you did yesterday?"
"Excuse me?!"
Emma rolls her eyes, waving the angry mayor off and heads back to her desk.
"Never mind, so why are you here Madam mayor?"
Regina notes slight redness around hazy green eyes and frowns, has she been crying?..
"Erm, Regina?"
Regina snaps from her trance and pins Emma with stern and commanding eyes.."Morrigans coming home with me."
"What?!"
Morrigans eyes widen slightly, The Queen wants me to return with her?! Why?! Am I in trouble again?!..She unconsciously shrinks back.
"I'm sorry did I stutter?"
"No its just after everything, after the murders, as sheriff I cant just let her free on the streets of Storybrooke."
"She wont be roaming free Miss Swan she'll be in my care. I thought after yesterday you'd realize I can handle the situation."
The door suddenly crashes open refocusing questionable attention as an angry Dr Whale storms onto the main floor.
"Why are there three new bodies in my morgue sheriff?! Why wasn't I notified immediately when..." Whale's voice trails off when he notices his present company. His outrage slowly twists into a sadistic grin as curious eyes slide to the mayor.."I didn't know you had company sheriff?"
Emma frowns questionably.."So what if I do? Whats it to you Whale?"
"Hey nothing, I don't object to you locking up that evil bitch."
"Shut up Whale, she's not getting locked up, not that its any of your business anyway."
"Shame, she'd be tame if you locked her up..submissive."
His sly grin widens and Emma refocuses, she can see Regina's resolve cracking and frowns deeply.
"Yeah? Hows that done Whale? Know something I don't? "
"No, That's just what happens when you cage a wild animal."
That's it!..Morrigan slams her palms on top the metal bars, Emma and Whale flinching at the force as dark magic swells and green eyes flicker red.
"You don't get to speak about her like that, EVER!"
Morrigan sees red when Whale smirks almost sadistically, I'm going to tear his fucking head off!..The magic in her palms begins to slowly melt the bars whilst Emma quickly pulls her gun from her belt.
"Regina?!..Whale get out!"
Regina stares hypnotized by dark red eyes she helped create, She's going to kill Whale and a good part of me wants to let her do it..But what example would it set for Henry, I cant be the Evil Queen again, but I also wont torture her anymore..I think its time for a change, I have to be better, for myself and for my son. I just hope to god this works or I could be heading to the hospital in a body bag..
"Morrigan?" Regina speaks low and soft, carefully moving into the woman's eye line.."Morrigan?"
Morrigan snarls, pushing her magic forward but a hand suddenly slides atop hers and red eyes dart up, her magic stopping immediately when soft brown eyes stare at her earnestly, what is she doing?..
"Stop."
Morrigan physically recoils at the gentleness, this isn't my Queen..Her eyes flicker back to their natural dark green as she backs away confused, What's happening?!..
"Glad you got one of them locked up."
Regina suddenly whirls on the grinning doctor, her nails biting into her palms and shaking subtly with rage.
"GET OUT!"
Regina's voice booms around the room making Morrigan jump while Whale simply crosses his arms over his chest smugly.
"I'm here to talk to the sheriff, if you don't like it, why don't you leave madam mayor."
Regina glares furiously as Emma holsters her gun, almost squaring up to the skinny man.
"Whale, get the hell out of my station."
He frowns deeply, glaring at all three women before he stomps out of the station and leaves them in silence.
Emma refocuses on Regina, a slither of pity but mainly curiosity going out to the woman.."You okay?"
"I'm fine." Is Emma's placid answer.
Morrigan stands at the back of her cell, staring at the floor absently, why haven't I been punished yet..There's a click and the door to her cell is opened. She continues staring, lost in a daze when a hand tentatively touches her arm and instinctively she flinches expecting pain. She moves out of the hands reach but it quickly grabs her arm again. She whimpers, closing her eyes and waiting for pain but nothing comes. Green eyes crack open but still remain fixed on the floor.
"I don't know what's happening.."
Regina's thumb rubs soothing circles on Morrigans arm.
"We're going home." She looks pointedly at a curious Emma, and in a puff of purple smoke, the two women are gone.
Emma stares at the empty cell, hopes that her day would return to normal shattered, God I need a drink..
Purple smoke drifts away leaving Morrigan and Regina staring at each other in the foyer of the pristine Mansion. Regina's stomach churns, her heart clenching at the mass of angst poorly hidden in confused green eyes. She can never make up for her past but she can work toward a better future for everyone, including Morrigan. After a moment, Regina blinks, clearing her throat and removing her hand from the woman's arm.
"You can go and take a shower if you like. There's an extensive wardrobe in the spare bedroom if you want to change. I hope the clothing is suitable and to your liking.."
Suitable and to my liking?..Morrigan stares in disbelief, only yesterday I was being shocked senseless and now I'm able to choose if the clothing is to my liking?! What the fuck is going on?!..
"I'll prepare us lunch. I don't blame you for rejecting Miss Swans offer earlier, who knows what grease trap was in that bag.."
Regina heads for the kitchen but pauses when there's no sign of movement. She turns to confused wide eyes and sighs, Patience Regina..
"Or if you like you can take a nap, I know those cell beds are as comfy as lying on a bail of straw.." Still no reaction and she frowns, Have I finally broken her?..Regina takes a cautious step forward.."Are you alright?"
Morrigan takes half a step back and Regina frowns, this is going to be a grueling and lengthy process..
"I..."
Green eyes dart from place to place, Morrigan's breathing becoming more erratic, This kindness..it isn't right! Am I in trouble again?!..She can feel her heart pounding against her chest and startles at the abnormal rhythm, Am I having a panic attack?!..Her eyes widen, fear spreading as a hand clutches desperately at her chest.
Knowing the panicking woman's symptoms, Regina quickly dashes into the kitchen, fumbling in the drawers and pulls out a brown paper bag. She runs back to the collapsed woman and quickly bends down only to have Morrigan shy away. Sternly she grabs Morrigan and wraps an arm around her waist pulling the panicking body into her lap.
"Breathe! You have to breathe!"
Morrigan continues to try and pull away only to have a brown paper bag pushed in front of her mouth.
"You need to breathe into this!"
Morrigan scrambles to take the bag, desperately grabbing one of Regina's hands with it.
"Shhhh..That's it, just breathe."
Slowly but surely Morrigans breathing levels out, matching the body behind her. A hand appears in ebony hair and for the first time, she doesn't flinch at the contact.
Regina can feel the body in her lap begin to relax as Morrigan's breathing finally levels out, What the hell brought that on? That's never happened before..The brown bag and her hand are slowly lowered but suddenly the body in her arms stiffens and she frowns questionably.
Green eyes widen comically, fear and panic clouding Morrigan's mind, Ive failed! Ive shown weakness! I touched the Queen without permission!..She propels herself from the woman's arms to spin and set herself on her hands and knees. Her forehead presses to the hardwood floor, her hands tightly wrapped over her dark hair acting as a shield.
"I'm so sorry your majesty, I didn't mean to, I..I shouldn't have touched you I..Please! I'm..I'm sorry!"
Wide brown eyes stare at the slightly shaking woman a moment, Regina's heart beating wildly and hands fidgeting. Over the many years they've known each other, shes never seen Morrigan act this way, never seen her so defeated and scared, the former bandit was always so composed, even when faced with an angry Evil Queen, Ive made a mistake, a huge mistake. The collars a curse for a reason, I never should have reattached it. Henry would be ashamed..I'm ashamed..
Regina slowly scoots forward, placing a gentle hand on ebony hair but Morrigan whimpers, crawling back until her feet hit the wall behind.
"Morrigan?.."
Unsure and unaccustomed to dealing with the terrified woman, Regina again moves forward, cornering the younger woman and carefully lays a hand on ebony hair.
Morrigan flinches, attempting to sink into the floorboards, her light sobs muffled.
"Morrigan look at me.."
The younger woman turns her head slightly, a glassy green eye peering up from between trembling hands and the angst in it makes Regina sick to her stomach.
"I'm not going to hurt you.."
Morrigan shakes her head weakly, eyes returning to the floorboards as she sits patiently for her awaited punishment, but said punishment never comes, the mansions quiet with the occasional sniffle echoing around the foyer.
Grim brown eyes stare, Regina releasing a small sigh, Obviously she doesn't believe I wont hurt her, and I dont blame her because I always have, every time she'd lose control I'd beat her back into submission instead of finding another way, A heroes way..But this time I'll prove I can change, that I can be better than my past self and earn Henry's love..
"Morrigan please, I know Ive hurt you before but this time is different. I never should have done what I did yesterday. It was cruel and wrong and I'm so sorry.."
Morrigans jaw quivers, another wave of tears quickly gathering.
"I'm sorry for everything, I destroyed your life after you showed me so much kindness, after you saved me. I wouldnt be here if it wasnt for you, I wouldnt have my son or this town, and I cant put into words how I truly regret everything Ive done to you."
Morrigan shakes her head, trying to block out the words shes only ever dreamed of hearing, but it all proves too much and she sobs, her knees buckling as she curls herself into a ball on the hardwood floor. She flinches again, whimpering through her cries but doesnt cower this time from the arms that slowly wrap around her.
Regina attempts to comfort the broken woman as tepid fingers cling to her blouse. She tangles a hand in dark hair, resting a cheek atop Morrigan's head, I don't know where this sudden burst of emotion's come from but I'm just glad shes letting me hold her..
After thirty minutes, all of Morrigan's tears have dried up and both women sit in one another's arms. Regina shifts, her back and knees aching painfully.
Morrigan senses the former Queens discomfort and slowly sheuncurls her fingers, pulling away with green eyes downcast.
"Go and take a hot shower, it'll help.."
Morrigan nods weakly and carefully climbs to her feet. She pauses, a trepid hand reaching towards the kneeling woman and Regina smiles appreciably, grabbing the offered limb and with a gentle tug, the Queen is on her feet.
"I'll prepare lunch, It'll be ready by the time you've finished."
Their hands slowly slide apart as they head their separate ways. This time as Regina walks to the kitchen, she hears footsteps finally ascending the stairs..
After spending almost twenty minutes soaking and crying in the shower, Morrigan sits on satin sheets of the lavish guest bed. A large standing mirror opposite reflects her body, her dark wet hair dripping onto her shoulders as green eyes stare blankly, I don't know who the woman in the mirror is anymore..Scars poke out from under the towels edge, constant reminders of a painful past, My purpose in life isn't certain anymore. There's no revenge here..nothing..I feel out of place..She stands from the bed and opens a large oak wardrobe inspecting its contents, The Queen wasn't kidding..Shirts, blouses, jeans, slacks, dresses are carefully color coded and hung in front of her. She runs a hand through the items, studying the material before pulling out an outfit.
On the bed, black jeans, her knee high boots and leather jacket with a silver V neck shirt are splayed out but she hesitates a moment, the Queen might disapprove of the T-shirt. I was never placed in silver by her and the one time I decided to wear it, I was reprimanded. I never found out why, its my favorite color but she had an issue with it somehow..
Green eyes linger, her fear stopping her from getting dressed, She wouldn't have put it in there if I couldn't wear it..There's a small thud from the room across the hallway and Morrigan frowns questionably. With a flick of her wrist, the outfit replaces her towel and her dark hair is dry and comfortably sitting over her shoulders. Cautiously she opens the door and slips out into the hallway. There's a low scraping sound from behind the adjacent door. Preparing herself, she slowly turns the knob and pushes it open.
Morrigan pokes her head around the corner, scanning the room and frowns, I was expecting an intruder, the kind that wants to murder us but..She stares at a child pulling out papers from under the bed, Isn't that Henry? Why wouldn't he just use the front door? Why is he sneaking into his own house?..She closes the door quietly, stealthily approaching with her head held high and raises a questionable eyebrow.
"I don't fully understand why one would have to sneak into their own home.."
Henry startles, spinning around too fast and landing on his backside.
"Care to enlighten me?"
The boy gawks and she quickly softens, its not a good idea to scare the child of my Queen, especially after the breakthrough we just had..
"You don't need to be scared of me boy, I wont hurt you."
"I'm not scared!"
Henry defiantly sticks his chin out and she immediately see's the resemblance of his adopted mother, Well who does that remind me of..A small shiver rolls up her spine, Like mother like son..
"Your not in the book."
Morrigan raises an intrigued eyebrow.."Book? What book?"
Henry pulls out a brown backed book from his backpack, The words "Once Upon A Time" printed in gold on the front cover.
"This, it has everyone's stories in it, Archie's, Grams and Gramps, Regina's.."
Morrigan frowns, Regina?.."You mean your mother."
"Yeah Regina."
Her temperament flares.."Would you stop calling her that!"
Henry shrinks back but it soon twists into an ugly scowl.."Well what else should I call her?! The Evil Queen?!"
"Well how about mother seen as that's what she is to you!"
"She's not my real mom, shes the Evil Queen, she's evil!"
Morrigan's temper bubbles over, How dare the little shit!..Green eyes suddenly flicker red as she advances. Henry's scowl slips and he shuffles backwards, the back of his knees hitting the bed with his body flopping onto the sheets.
The rage, the burning, but there's a voice in the back of her mind, hes a child! Would you do the same to Elinor if she was still alive?!..The collar around her neck flares, preparing to shock her if she dispels magic. Morrigan looks into the child's frightened eyes and feels a sense of dred, I cant do this..I need to stop now!..Her hand quickly tangles in black wavy hair, happier memories attempting to disrupt her anger. She thinks of Elinor, of her Regina before red eyes flicker back green and she breathes deeply, flopping down on the bed beside Henry and cupping her head in her hands.
Henry sits a little disturbed but slowly shuffles closer, awkwardly dangling his legs over the edge of the bed.
I almost attacked him, I could have killed him. The Queens son!..Morrigan's head remains in her hands, the collar no longer burning her skin.
"Are you okay?"
She chuckles weakly.."I almost attack you and your asking me if I'm okay?"
"Almost, but you stopped."
Morrigan lifts her head.."But what if I didn't?"
Henry looks into pained green eyes and places a hand on her arm.
"But you did, that's all that counts."
The boys very wise for his age. He reminds me so much of that scared Queen I met all those years ago..
"I'm sorry Henry."
"No biggy." Henry smiles brightly.
"Nothing ever phases you does it?"
"Nope, not when you grow up around a curse enacted by the Evil Queen.."
Morrigan visibly flinches at the words "Evil Queen" and he stares questionably.
"Who are you?"
Am I allowed to tell him?..
"I don't think I should say, its not my place."
"Your not allowed to tell me who you are?"
"Something like that."
"Can I ask why you were in jail?"
Morrigan fidgets, the sound of the screaming men she tore to pieces echoing in her thoughts.
"I...I did something bad."
"Did it have something to do with that?"
Henry points to the collar around her neck and she shakes her head, fiddling with her hands.
"No, this stopped me before I hurt anyone else."
"You hurt someone?" Henry see's the woman's hesitance and squeezes her arm gently.."Its okay, as long as you know what you did was wrong and your sorry, you should have a chance at forgiveness."
Morrigan wipes a lone tear from her cheek, since when am I crying?!..She looks earnestly into bright brown eyes.
"Even the Queen?"
Henry pauses, retracting his hand and looking down somber. After a moment Morrigan breaks the silence.
"Why are you here?"
He looks at her sheepish.."I couldn't find you anywhere in the book so I decided to look for more information."
"Well aren't you a little junior detective. Why so interested in me?"
"Who wouldn't be, first time I saw you, you punched a wall and said everything was fine. Plus you have magic and.."
"Wait, you know I have magic?"
"Duh, Its obvious. That's why everyone's scared of you isn't it?"
Morrigan frowns, sliding to her feet.."Yes. I'm a..problem, and your mother and the sheriff aren't sure how to handle me.."
Wait..I'm not only talking to a ten year old about my problems, but I'm talking to the Queens son..Morrigan turns to him, a fake smile in play.
"But these are my problems Henry, don't worry about it."
The boy stares suspiciously but reluctantly drops the issue.."So whats the deal with you and my mom?"
"I cant tell you Henry, but I will say your mother and I were friends back in the enchanted forest..a long time ago."
"Were?"
"Henry.."
The door suddenly flies open and a curious Regina enters startling a wide eyed Morrigan.
"Henry?"
Henry stares, watching as his mothers eyes quickly lock onto Morrigan accusingly.
"What did you do?!"
Regina stalks forward, Morrigan matching the seething woman's pace backwards, her mind drawing a blank as the collar around her neck instantly heats up and a shaky hand darts to it.
"I..I didn't.." Her back hits a desk behind, cutting off any escape and she panics, the collar shocking lightly and the grip around her neck tightens.
Regina seethes, her dark eyes flashing a vivid purple.."If you did anything Morrigan.."
Henry quickly jumps off the bed and rushes at his mother unyielding.."She didn't do anything!"
Her sons words are drowned out by her unbending focus on an alarmed Morrigan, Did she attack Henry? Kidnap him?..Rage swirls through Regina's chest, magic crackles at slender fingertips, sending a shock through the collar and into Morrigan causing green eyes squeeze shut painfully.
"Mom stop I'm fine! She didn't do anything I promise!..Stop your hurting her!"
Eventually Henry's cries register and Regina ceases her onslaught to quickly look her son over for injuries.
"Are you sure?"
He nods, batting Regina's gentle hands away and edges towards Morrigan. Green eyes are forced shut, teeth gritted together and knuckles chalked white clinging to the desk behind.
"Are you okay?"
Morrigan quickly attempts to compose herself, standing straight and eyes flickering open.."Of course."
Regina watches fascinated and a little jealous, Henry's never asked if I'm okay before. What happened between them for him to ask? Did Morrigan tell him about our past?!..She flusters, clearing her throat and turning to Henry sternly.
"Henry what are you doing here? How did you get in?"
He looks down to his shoes sheepish.."I climbed up.."
"You did what?!"
"I'm okay mom I didn't fall or anything."
Regina's heart melts in her chest, I haven't heard from him in weeks and thought he didn't want me to be his mother anymore, not with Miss Swan claiming him as soon as the curse broke but he just called me Mom and my heart is soaring..
"Well next time use the front door hunny, you know your welcome here anytime."
"I am?"
Regina frowns.."Of course you are, why wouldn't you be?"
Henry avoids eye contact and shrugs lightly.."I dunno, with the curse and the Evil Queen stuff.."
Well hell, that must sting a little..Morrigan can sense Regina's distress and carefully pushes herself upright, I don't know what I'd do if Elinor had ever grown to call me a monster..
"Henry your allowed here anytime you know that. The Queen.." She notes the boys raised eyebrow and amends quickly.."Your mother loves you and nothing will ever change that. Remember what you said about forgiveness?"
There's a pause.
"As long as you know what you did was wrong and your sorry, you should have a chance at forgiveness.."
Regina's eyes widen, He really said that?!..
Morrigan smiles, nodding at the boy who hums his approval.
"Maybe your right."
"No, you are."
Henry's smile grows whilst Regina watches the interaction, tears threatening and she wonders if she'll ever start building bridges with her son again. She glances at the clock on the bedside table and raises a perfectly sculpted eyebrow.
"You should be in school." Composing herself, she fixes him a stern glare and he fidgets under her scrutiny.
"I..eh..I got a free period?"
"You don't get free periods your ten. Now grab your things, I'm taking you back to school."
He sighs.."Fine."
The resemblance between the pair is frightening. Henry really is the Queens son, attitude and all..Morrigan cant help a small smile at the interaction between mother and son.
Henry grabs his backpack, shoving his book into one of the compartments and throwing it over his shoulder, he heads for the door but pauses.
"See you around?"
Morrigan's mouth hangs open, What should I say?..Regina glares at her and her anxiety returns, well that might be a "Like hell you will" or a "don't upset my son" look..Whats the answer?! Well I better get it right..
"I..Well..maybe."
Morrigan smiles and Henry nods firmly, heading from the room and toward the staircase. Morrigan looks to Regina to see danger behind brown eyes and shrinks back, I'm in trouble..Regina spins on her heels and exits without another word and she fidgets, I'm in serious trouble..The last thing she hears is the front door slamming shut and the Mercedes speeding down Mifflin street. Morrigan sighs, her body and mind exhausted from the past few days as she leaves Henry's room, clicking the door shut behind her and waiting for her Queen to return..
Its been over an hour since Regina left and the sickening feeling in Morrigan's stomach has only grown, She should have been back by now!..The groove in the foyer floor continues to suffer at the hands of her black heeled boots.
"I should have told her as soon as I saw the stupid boy! Damn! You always fuck things up Morrigan, every god damn time!"
Her hands clutch her hair painfully when suddenly she pauses, What if I run? No the Queen would find me, the collar is like a damn beacon! Shit, I'm going to be punished or at least be thrown in a dark hole for the rest of my life!..She lets out a loud angry growl, looking to the mirror on the wall and scowls at her reflection. Green eyes lock onto the Evil Queens insignia around her neck and her anger rises, I cant live like this anymore! Scared of what she may or may not do to me over every single thing!..She grabs an ornament from the table and throws it at the mirror, the jagged shards splintering and crashing to the hardwood floor, I'll rip the damn thing from my neck even if it kills me!..
Morrigan pulls her magic as fingernails scratch fiercely at the leather seared into her skin. The collar immediately heats up and shocks her but she pushes through the pain, letting anger fuel her emotions. She forces her magic, willing the collar to remove itself but it just shocks her more painfully and she screams, dropping to her knees. Pain and tears wash over her as she desperately pulls at the dark magic imbued within her heart. Blood slowly seeps from where leather meets flesh, her finger tips coated in dark crimson and her stomach flips, Its working!..
Suddenly magic slams into her chest and she's sent sailing backwards, her head slamming against the wall and she hits the floor with a heavy thud. Black spots dance in her vision as a pair of black stilettos click towards her before everything goes dark...
Regina stares at the dancing flames within her grand fireplace, This morning had been difficult with Whale but nothing compared to when I came home earlier. When I felt a spike in Morrigans magic I certainly wasn't expecting to find her mutilating herself. The image of her prying the collar from her neck, the blood..the pain..Her stomach rolls uneasy at the memory, the foolish girl nearly killed herself and I'm responsible. After finding her with Henry I needed to think. Everything he said had been confusing, I needed time to process that he has some sort of new found hope in my redemption, even though I'm certain I don't deserve it..The doorbell echo's around the mansion and dark eyes narrow, Who the hell's calling at this time?..There's another chime and Regina sighs, I bet I can guess. Who's so boisterous to disturb the mayor at this time of night..She heads into the foyer and sternly pulls the front door open.
"Miss Swan do you realize what time it is?"
Emma sways on the balls of her feet.."Erm yeah, sorry Regina but can we talk?"
"Whatever you have to say I'm sure it can wait until tomorrow." She moves to close the door but Emma quickly speaks up.
"Sorry it cant."
"What's happened? Is Henry alright?!"
"Hes fine. Its Morrigan I need to talk to you about."
The mayor huffs her irritation and opens the door a little wider.."Very well.." She leaves, disappearing into the mansion with Emma in tow.."So what's she done? Was there an incident at the sheriffs station you failed to mention earlier?"
Emma follows the regal woman into the living room, watching as the mayor sits primly on the sofa next to the cosy fire. A slender hand gestures for her to sit and Emma perches on the chair opposite.."No no its not that."
Regina raises a questionable eyebrow at the fidgeting blond.."Well I don't have all night sheriff so spit it out."
"Well, Mary Margret said Henry wasn't in one of his classes today, and then she saw you drop him off, and when I asked him why he was with you.."
Regina bristles, Am I forbidden to see my own son now!..
"Am I not able to drop my own son off at school without panicking the masses!"
Emma quickly looks into furious black eyes and represses a shiver.
"No that's not what this is about. He said that he saw Morrigan today but he was vague. He said he snuck in and they talked but didn't say much else about it...Where is she anyway?"
Regina's facade settles and her eyes flicker to the fire.."Resting."
Emma frowns.."From what Ive gathered she doesn't look the resting type..or sleeping..or eating. What happened?" Regina steels her jaw and Emma huffs her impatience.."Regina did she attack someone else? Oh my god! Did she hex Henry?!"
"No she has not attacked anyone nor has she Hexed Henry!" Regina sarcastically finger quotes "Hexed" and Emma relaxes.
"Then what? She kill someones cat or something?"
"No she..hurt herself."
Emma notices the way the woman's voice lowers itself.
"What happened?"
Regina sighs.."She tried to remove the collar."
"So?"
"So doing it herself isn't possible, only the caster can take it off."
"I still don't understand. How did she manage to hurt herself then?"
Regina stands, avoiding eye contact and hovers by the fireplace.
"She tried to remove it using magic. I returned home in time to see the foolish girl pull part of it from her neck. In short Miss Swan, there was a lot of blood and a lot of screaming."
Emma sits unsettled and a little nauseous.
"You don't think she tried to..you know."
"To be honest I don't know what she was thinking, it could be a number of things."
"Regina this needs to stop, she's clearly not stable, she needs help."
Regina glares.."And what do you suggest? Have her committed? Afternoon sessions with the bug?"
"Well anythings better than this. She was around Henry today alone and god knows what could have happened!"
The mayor shifts defensively.."She wouldn't have hurt him."
"And you know that for sure?!"
Regina pauses, Swans right. I cant know for sure what Morrigan would do, I can only sense when the woman's violent tendencies rear their head..She sighs.
"No."
There's a moment of pause, both women staring at the flames of the fire deep in thought as a crackle resounds around the living room.
"What the hell did you do to her Regina?"
Guilty brown eyes slide over to the blond.."What I always do."
Emma steels her jaw, her mind finally made up.."I want you to write me a list of who you think was involved in your attack."
Regina quickly refocuses and scowls.."I believe we've been through this more than once Miss Swan! What makes you think my answer has changed!"
"This is as much for your sake as it is for Morrigan's."
"Oh? And how's that?"
"Can you promise me that she wont go around on her own, picking off anyone she thinks was involved?"
"The collar.."
Emma quickly interrupts.."Screw the collar Regina!"..Regina recoils slightly.."She's lost control countless times even with that damn collar! She doesn't need magic to kill someone, she could use poison or a gun! The point is you cant watch her twenty four seven and stop her every time she attacks someone. And the whole torture if you step out of line thing, its messing with her head!"
Regina's rage explodes.."What do you suggest I do then?! Lock her away for the rest of her life?! Put her under a sleeping curse?! Kill her?! Well I wont!"
Emma unconsciously shrinks back into the sofa.
"She is my responsibility, Not anyone elses and I wont just.."
Regina stops abruptly and Emma can see the woman's walls cracking.
"Regina I know you think she's your responsibility but what your doing its confusing the hell out of her, you can see it every time your both together.."
Regina shifts.
"I want to help but we have to be smart about this. No more shock therapy and no more bowing at your feet crap. She needs some normality to her life, stability, and treating her like a human being and not just one of your subjects is essential in her recovery."
"Be careful Miss Swan, your starting to sound like Dr Hopper.." Emma pouts causing an irritable sigh.."Its not as easy as that. Morrigan was..trained a specific way. Years of conditioning cant simply be undone by nice words and gestures. She was created to serve and to kill, you simply cant turn off those impulses, its not like flipping a light switch."
"I never said it was going to be easy, but after what she's been through, don't you at least owe it to her to try?"
Regina recedes into her mind, The infuriating savior is right. We both have a long and grueling past but there was always something more I could never explain. Something more behind dark green eyes and after everything Ive done to her, I do owe it to her to try. I need to do something Ive never done before, I need to sit down and talk about my feelings because Swan's right, Morrigan is confused and the only way I can get any answers about whats happening in her head is to talk to her..Emma's hand lands softly on her arm pulling her from her thoughts.
"Regina?"
Regina steps away uncomfortably from the gentle touch.."I'll make sure that list gets to you by tomorrow afternoon. As for Morrigan, I'll deal with her. Don't mention to anyone what was discussed here tonight or I'll personally make sure your life is substantially worsened, Understood?"
Emma chuckles.."I wont mention anything madam mayor."
"Very well, I do believe you've wasted enough of my time so if you would see yourself out."
"Sure, night Regina"
Emma heads for the foyer but glances behind her momentarily. The mayor seems as regal as ever, her arms crossed and stood in front of the crackling fire but Emma can tell there's more to the placid woman than meets the eye.
Regina hears the thud of her front door and releases a shaky breath, I'm tired, drained and feel like I need to cry for a week, But I'll not be weak, not at a time like this. I need answers more so than the savior..She looks at the clock wearily, its late, I should try and sleep, maybe I'll feel better in the morning..She heads for the staircase, heels clicking up the marble and her thoughts drift back to Morrigan, I should check on her before retiring..
With a soft click, Regina steps into the room, eyes fixed on the slumbering body between satin sheets. A bloodied gauze covers Morrigan's neck and two white strips hold together a cut just above her eyebrow. Regina approaches, gently sitting on the edge of the bed and pulling the medical kit from the bedside table as she goes. She retrieves a fresh gauze and some sterile wipes from the kit and proceeds to remove the bloody bandage, wincing when torn flesh is revealed, I managed to stitch the skin back to the leather but in time, magic should reattach it properly..Blood leaks from torn flesh, dribbling down Morrigans neck and onto the satin sheets.
"Damn it."
Regina places the dirty gauze on the bedside table and cleans the wound carefully. After a few minutes, the bleeding stops and she replaces the gauze carefully. Brown eyes drift to the speckles of blood on her fingers and Regina bites her cheek, her blood literally on my hands, how poetic..Quickly bloody fingers are wiped clean, the medical kit packed away before its placed on the bedside table. Soft brown eyes slide from the steady rise and fall of Morrigan's chest to her gauntly white face, I'll make this right. I have to..She softly laces their fingers together.
"I'll make this right Morrigan..I promise."
Regina sits for a few minutes, relishing in the contact before sliding from the bed. She tries to pull her hand away only for Morrigan's fingers to tighten around her own, How am I supposed to leave with her clinging to me?..Regina huffs but quickly notes tears rolling down the woman's cheeks and her demeanor softens.
"Morrigan?"
Green eyes remain shut but tears fall freely.
"Morrigan dear are you having a nightmare?"
I sound stupid for asking but I cant tell if she's asleep or not. I don't want to startle her if she is..Morrigan's head very subtly moves from side to side and Regina's heart clenches.
"Open you eyes for me."
Morrigans head gently shakes once more followed by a soft whimper and Regina quickly sits back on the edge of the bed.
"I...Sorr..."
"Shhh don't talk. Your okay."
Finally bloodshot green eyes slide open and slide towards Regina. Morrigans sobs increase, her head gently turning away and eyes shutting again as Regina unconsciously rubs soothing circles on the back of the woman's hand.
"Shhh..Its okay Morrigan, your going to be fine..I promise."
Regina repositions herself alongside the woman and gently caresses ebony hair. Even though her tired body screams at her to rest she cant compel herself to leave, why shes crying, I'm not sure, but hopefully I'll find out tomorrow. Looks like I wont be getting much sleep tonight either...