Merlin gives his students a magical induction. Emma and Robin get to know more about each other. Sometimes, too much knowledge is a bad thing.

The Diner

The release of Robin's magic wasn't just felt by the fairies.

Coming a good hour, at least, since the first magical wave of energy, Regina now felt another, even stronger wave. Powerful yet somehow familiar? And like a hair dryer blowing hot air over her for just a second. She now sat in Granny's, Zelena opposite, and their daughters to their sides.

From the stunned expression on her sister's face, even with her own dramatically reduced magic abilities, she'd noticed it too!

"You felt that?"

Before Regina could speak, Honour piped up. "Mummy, what was that? That hot air and the yellow light?"

Both women looked at her, realising for the first time the implication. She has magic, even if it hasn't come in properly, yet. The only one who didn't sense it was Robyn.

"Not sure, lovely, don't worry about it," Zelena soothed her niece, looking anxiously at her sister.

"You think Gold's up to something?" Zelena remembered the Dark One's vow to kill her, if she ever entered his shop. Only Henry's direct intervention with his grandfather had made his grandfather agree to allow the former Wicked Witch to live, and solely because of Robyn. Henry had argued with him that his own son, Baelfire, would have frowned on the killing of a mother, despite that same woman being ultimately responsible for his own death. Odd, seeing as in his darkest moments, Henry felt like he wanted to kill her himself, for taking his father away. "You'd better tell Emma."

"I've tried. She's upset with me." She picked her phone up and started texting.

Regina: Emma, please call me? Something's wrong!

"That first wave an hour ago was definitely stronger. And this one felt a little…familiar? Like I've come across it somewhere before?"

"Yes, I know what you mean. Someone, or something, has definitely come over the border. Someone with magic. But first I need to know Emma's not involved, and I need to make sure Roland's safe. I'm getting him back from John this afternoon."

"What about Henry? He's back now, isn't he? Where is he?"

"That's also…difficult. He's not talking to either of us."

Regina recounted the events of the previous day, trying to hold back her emotions. God, hadn't she cried enough? The redhead listened before summarising her predicament.

"So, let's get this right. Henry's not talking to you right now, because wifey tore him off a strip in public, and poofed him into a jail cell like a bad puppy? He gets angry, which makes his magic, which you never even knew he had, come in, so he then ripped the jail apart. And because of that, he's staying with The Dark One? We both know how that'll turn out! The imp's cuffed you both till he sees fit to release you, and we both know how that feels! Gold also threatened to murder blondie, if she so much as sets foot anywhere near his shop. Join the club! Then you upset said wifey, so she's ignoring you; meanwhile the thief, the newly-resurrected father of our children has his own magic? He kissed you, then read Emma's mind. Where the hell did he learn to do that? Roland's staying put with his father..." Zelena stopped talking, looking down at her little dimple-cheeked, redhead daughter, whose mouth was now happily smeared in chocolate ice-cream, oblivious to the adults' conversation. "And finally..." she lowered her voice, almost whispering, "These two never seem to shut up about seeing Hood again; and to cap it all, it appears your little one will have magic too? Apart from that, everything's fine and dandy!"

"Mummy, where's papa?"

Regina smiled down at her. "No idea, sweetheart. Perhaps we'll see him later."

"But I just felt him! I smelt him; he's here!"

Smelt? The two sisters looked at one another, wide-eyed, realisation dawning.

"I thought that last wave felt familiar? There was something about it. Could it have been-"

"Robin!"

The Nolan Farm

When Regina felt the second, stronger wave, Emma had also felt it, almost shuddering as a warm, earthy-smelling wave swept over her. The second one in just over an hour? Something dangerous?

David noticed her flinch. "What's wrong?" He laid a hand on her shoulder. "That's the second time. Emma, what is it?"

"I don't know. I just felt…something; some sort of magic pulse? It's hard to explain, but you're right, I felt another one an hour ago. I think someone's crossed over the town line." For the first time that day, she thought of her family, groaning as she realised she'd left her phone switched off the entire morning after she'd stormed out in a huff. "Dad, sorry but I need to go make sure Gina's okay?"

With that, she kissed her father goodbye, gathered her keys and left. David's phone started ringing the moment her car pulled out of the driveway, a number he instantly recognised on the display.

Emma's phone came back online. What the hell were you doing, switching it off after storming out? You're such a fucking child, Swan! She cussed herself. Numerous texts immediately came through from her wife, making her pull in to read them all. Initially angry, they becoming increasingly concerned, till she finally read the last one:-

Regina: Emma, call me! Something's wrong!

She looked down at her wrist, at the magic-blocking cuff stopping her from just poofing over there; so she hit the first number in the phone's speed dial.

"Where the hell are you? I've been worried sick!" Regina didn't sound so much angry, as frightened.

"I'm sorry! I'll explain later. Where are you now? Do you still have the cuff on?"

"Of course I have! The bastard said '24 hours'! And you know that little shit will stick to it right up to the final minute. I'm at the Diner with Zee and the girls. Just get over here!"

Granny's Diner

Ten minutes later, after racing across town, she ran into the diner, slamming the front door behind her as she caught sight of Regina, moving over to her. The two women initially stood facing each other, almost nose-to-nose, both looking sullen. Emma frowned, guilt in her eyes.

"I'm sorry…" Tears started forming, reflected in her wife's face. Regina understood completely.

"Don't. Just…come here." Regina opened her arms, draping them around her wife's neck. The time had long passed when either woman felt awkward showing the other affection in public. Emma just pulled herself into the embrace, moving her arms around her back. They held together tightly, tears threatening and neither intending to let go.

"I know I've been an asshole. Please don't leave me?" Emma almost whispered the words, shocking Regina, who pulled her head back to look at her.

"That is never going to happen!" She whispered back, before dragging Emma's open mouth directly on to hers in a ferocious kiss, completely ignoring other diners, who watched open-mouthed at the display.

"Check please for the Scissor Sisters?" Zelena called out, rolling her eyes.

"Ladies, there's other diners present?" Dorothy's voice came from behind the counter. She may have a girlfriend herself, but she knew you didn't kiss anyone like that in public around here. Simple courtesy to other diners applied. However the two women seemed oblivious to everyone but each other. "If you don't mind?"

They ignored her. "Emma, please don't ask me that again? I'll never leave you, you know that!"

"Yeah, but what about Hood? Don't try denying what you feel for him. I spoke to Tink."

"It's complicated. But I know him! He'd never do anything to-"

"He read my bloody mind, Regina!" She interrupted. "Last night. He saw my whole life! My emotions, my feelings. Us. He saw everything! I saw it all flash by…to him. He saw it all, like he was there. He knows more about me now than you do, and you're the only soul I've ever told that stuff to! I feel like I've been invaded. Like I've been mentally...raped?"

"Then talk to him! Tell him how you feel. He's not a bad person, Emma, he's just not in control of his new powers. I'm certain he wouldn't have done it deliberately. He's probably as freaked out by this as you are."

She harrumphed. "Might also explain why Merlin's here."

"Merlin? But…he's dead, surely? We saw him die! Hook killed him!"

"Apparently not. Mulan says he's with Robin at the convent right now. I'd poof straight over there, but these fucking cuffs?" The pair broke apart to look at the offending items.

"Well then, how about we do it the old-fashioned way?"

The Convent

As they pulled in to the little car park at the side of the building, Emma noticed a cluster of fairies gathered in a wide circle at the far side of the front lawn. Once they'd parked, Regina's phone started ringing. Zelena, her voice blaring out loud over the hands-free as soon as she answered it.

"Hello again, dickheads! Missing anything?"

Both women's eyes widened, realising what they'd just done once they saw the empty car seats in the back.

"Oh crap!" Emma groaned under her breath.

"Well done for remembering you have a daughter, sis! You two idiots left without even saying goodbye to them, or me! Thanks for that. Are you just trying to lose them one by one, or something? Henry yesterday, Honny today? Never mind, I guess I'll be babysitting the rest of today then? All you had to do was ask."

Regina felt ashamed, cringing because she was right. "Zee, I'm sorry, okay? With everything that's been going on, I just…just…"

"Save it! I heard it before you took off. You're going to the convent to see Merlin and Forest Boy? Just don't let your wife piss him off, like she did with the imp? If the blue moth's right, your old flame's powers are huge now! He could burn old blondie there to a crisp, if he loses it!"

"Noted. We just need to talk to him. And Merlin, if he really is here like Mulan told Emma, and find out what's going on!"

The Convent

They walked from the car park, across the lawn to the small gathering. To their surprise, ballroom music seemed to be playing loudly from a portable player on a nearby table, as six couples, the women in elegant ballroom gowns and the men in long-tailed matching Regency-styled suits, seemed to be dancing in formation, while a tall, middle-aged, grey-haired man appeared to be orchestrating them?

Emma & Regina shared a bewildered look. What the hell?

Getting nearer, they recognised five of the six women, each partnered with a frock-coated male. Reul Ghorm, Tinker Bell, Nova, Mulan and Ruby were all dressed in similar long, elegant Regency-period dresses of various colours and styles. Mulan in a dress? Dancing?

Next to an unusually chuckling Blue Fairy, danced a tall, curvy, blonde-haired woman she didn't recognise. She was extremely beautiful and magic seemed to just radiate from her. Powerful magic! Was she the one who came over the town line and triggered the wave?

When Emma looked to see who Mulan's partner was, she heard Regina gasp.

There was Robin Hood, her Robin, dressed in a long frock-coat, high trousers and waistcoat, looking very much the debonair foil to his elegant lady, smiling as he held her hand, the woman circling below his arm before she released him, moving to the next man and her own place now taken by Blue, who repeated the dance steps in formation with the others?

Yet that wasn't the only reason she gasped. Looking across, it appeared that nearly all of the women were dancing with an identical Robin Hood? Five identical Robin Hoods?

To Emma, the biggest shock was seeing who the unknown beautiful blonde was now dancing with.

Killian?

Looking to the far left, Emma saw a sixth Robin Hood. But this one was sitting at a table nearby, his eyes closed, deep in concentration, while appearing to be directed by a tall grey-haired, bearded man, who was standing immediately behind him with his hands resting on the seated Robin's shoulders, talking.

"Bravo, Robin!" he encouraged, as the music came to an end. "A fine display! Remember now, you need to release them to respond individually to their respective partner. Focus on their independent sights and smells, then release them by thinking of a cord between all of you being cut, as we discussed? Good. Now…open your eyes?"

Robin gazed in wonder at the sight. Under Merlin's tuition, he had duplicated himself five times, giving each doppelganger an ability to respond and speak to their dance partner individually. He laughed as he realised the absurd situation. He imagined it would take many years to master the sort of skills Merlin had spoken of. However, by allowing the Sorcerer to 'mind-meld' with him, as he called it, Merlin had managed to pass on centuries worth of magical skills in a matter of minutes. And now Robin was exercising those same skills.

"Merlin, this is truly bizarre! The feeling, the sensations running through me are just...just...astonishing!" he sounded as though he was high on drugs.

Emma stood transfixed as they watched the bewildering scene. This was strong magic! As the music came to an end, each woman curtseyed to her respective dance partner and she could hear the Robin Hood dancing with Mulan, as he bowed in response.

"Well that was fun. Mu, you look brilliant dressed like that! Ballgowns really seem to suit you! Perhaps you should think about a ball for your wedding?"

"Maybe…" His close friend and former warrior, resplendent in an elegant eggshell-blue ball gown, smiled warmly. "I've never even worn anything like this before! Ball gowns and fancy parties were more Rory's thing."

Regina and her wife looked on in disbelief, as each Robin in front of them paid similar courtesies to their partners, all appearing to act independent of one other. Emma assumed the sitting archer was the real thing. Walking closer to the two men, she heard some of the instructions given by the older grey-haired man.

"Excellent work! Now finally, picture your hands taking those silver ropes separating your other selves. Picture drawing them in toward you and absorbing them into your body?"

The five duplicate Robin's, each bidding farewell to their last partner, seemed to become transparent, before disappearing into thin air, leaving the one sitting Robin. As they did so, the ladies' ball gowns transformed back to the clothes they'd all arrived in.

"That's a shame…" Ruby started chuckling. "I was enjoying that!"

The Robin sitting down opened his eyes again, as a small round of applause broke out. He smiled shyly at the praise for his spell's success, standing up to join everyone. That's when he noticed Regina and Emma, both looking directly at him. He nodded, an awkward embarrassment showing on his reddening cheeks.

Unusually for her, Regina was speechless. She'd just witnessed magic she'd only ever heard of. A separation of the physical body into multiple hosts, all independent of one another. Rumple had once mentioned it, but she never saw him perform that spell, if indeed he even could? Now, here was her former lover, her soulmate, showing powers way beyond her own? Emma also stood transfixed, as she felt the strong magical field coming from the group. Were they in any danger?

"Emma! Is that you?" said the tall, grey-haired man, as he walked over to her. As he drew closer, she felt Regina's hold on her arm tighten.

"Sorry, do I know you?"

He laughed. "Yes, Killian had the same problem! This is one of my true forms; but the last time we met, I would have I looked like this?" In a flash, his face and body instantly transformed into a darker skinned, younger-looking man, with a slightly different English accent. "Recognise me know?"

"Merlin?" She gasped, looking him over. "Mulan said you were here, but I didn't really believe it. Shouldn't you be dead?"

"Sorry to disappoint you," the Sorcerer let out a deep, growling laugh "But as you can see, I'm very much alive and kicking. This will take a bit of explaining…" He transformed himself back to the original taller, greyer, middle-aged man. "Come. Sit with me? You too, Regina?"

But Regina wasn't listening. She was too busy watching the beautiful blonde stranger who had been dancing with the pirate, approach Robin excitedly, planting a kiss on his cheek while giving him a hug. His face lit up in equal excitement, as she gabbled happily. She caught part of the conversation.

"Well done. Dad said you'd be a quick learn. Apart from him, I've never actually met a Force Ten Mage, never mind a brand shiny new one! How do you feel?"

"Like I could run a marathon? Anna, I've never felt so much energy inside! I still can't believe this is real. Your father's a truly astonishing man. I'm still not sure about learning by that 'mind-meld' thing though?"

"Yes, that gets a little bit weird, doesn't it? But it helps you cram in an awful lot very quickly. Dad lives mostly in the non-magical world these days, so he gets a bit over-enthusiastic when he gets his magic back! He taught me that 'seer' future-gazing stuff when we were in Glastonbury. That was so weird? My brother and sisters have it too. But dad also thinks we should pick things up gradually. He's very much a believer in 'too much magic makes you go mad."

Robin chuckled, having been close to too many people with magic, good and bad. "He's got a point! Tell me about your siblings? You're a big family, I take it?"

"I've got three. Two older sisters, Rosalind, or Rosie, and Celia. I think mum and dad were going through a Shakespeare thing at the time? Rosie's a lawyer, and a part time teacher at a school back home. She's the bossy one! Cee is something in IT, doing something I still don't quite understand. She's the loud one. Then there's my brother Charles, or Charlie. He's an author and teacher, of sorts. He teaches handicapped kids how to play music. He's the intense one. His magic's very strong, but darker, so he tends to wear his own cuff, by choice, from time to time. We're a strange bunch, but we're close."

"And your mother? Sorry, I don't mean to pry. Ignore that." Robin knew how loss could be painful.

"Mum died about ten years ago. Dad took it real hard. She didn't have magic, but she was definitely one of dad's true loves in our world. She came from New York. He met her when he was working in a hospital there."

"I'm sorry. I know how painful loss can be. I have a son, Roland. He doesn't even remember Marian, his mother. I've just missed the last five years of his life. I only came back from the Underworld, courtesy of Zeus himself, two days ago."

"That's harsh. But he's okay, now?"

"Yes, thank goodness. My soulmate, well, my former…" Robin hesitated. "Um, well someone very important to me, has looked after him these past five years. He seems to have had a good life so far. I also have two little girls up here, who I'm also only getting to know since I've been back. It's complicated."

Regina stood listening to their conversation in silence, closely watching the beautiful woman who seemed more than interested in Robin. Her stomach knotted at the angst in his voice. Yet she felt something inside her as she listened. There was clearly a burgeoning friendship between these two, as they continued to talk about their lives. Why is she still holding on to his arm? To my Robin! But, he's not even mine anymore is he? So why should I care? It was a stupid question. She already knew why.

Unknown to Regina, Robin, now understanding his newly-released powers a little more, could actually hear her in his mind. He looked across to his former lover. Sensing her anxiety, he stepped back from Anna, taking her hand and bringing her to face the brunette.

"Annabelle, let me introduce you to Regina? She's my daughter, Honour's, mother. Gina, this is Doctor Annabelle Sage, Merlin's daughter. She'll be staying with us at the convent for a little while, before she goes back to New York. She's convalescing after a serious car accident."

Anna offered her hand. "Delighted to meet you, Regina. Dad told me a little about you. So, you and Robin have a daughter? How lovely. I really want children myself some day."

Regina took the proffered hand, looking her in the eyes. Late-twenties, she guessed. The blonde was not only stunning and clearly intelligent, but judging from the sensation running up her arm, had strong magic, too. Clearly a product of Merlin and a true love.

"It's nice to meet you too, Miss Sage. Yes, Honour's five now."

"Regina and I aren't together any more, Anna." Robin added, information Regina thought unnecessary. "After I died, Regina went on to marry Emma, that blonde lady over there, while I was in the Underworld. Honour, and my son Roland, are currently living with them."

Regina felt hurt, even though it was nothing but the truth. "May I ask how you actually got through our magical boundary to get here, Miss Sage?"

Anna smiled, though sensing the underlying tension between the pair. "Oh, magic boundaries don't really affect dad. Nor Robin now, I'd imagine? I don't travel to magical places outside the UK very often," she turned back to Robin. "But you should definitely come to New York, or London, to see us sometime?"

"I'd like that. I'd also love to take the children to see England before too long. I think I need a change of scene."

Again, Regina felt slighted. She knew he was more than entitled to spend time with all three of his children, but the way he spoke felt different. This Robin was different, though she still felt that strong pull, and a feeling of jealousy that he seemed to be getting on so well with this woman.

"Well, we'll see. Honour has never been outside Storybrooke yet. All the more reason to wait until-"

"Honour is our child, Regina." Robin emphasised, quietly but firmly, his eyes a little colder. "We both have a say in her life now!" As he said it, Emma had just joined her, listening in to the decidedly terse exchange. She also noticed the familiarity between Robin and Merlin's daughter, who now had her arm back in his own, plus his irritated tone as he spoke.

She tried not to grin. Perhaps this could play to her advantage?

"Where's Honour now, Regina?" Robin asked her.

"With Zelena," she noticed him stiffen at the mere mention of her sister. "She and Robyn went with her so we could come over. I'll collect her later this afternoon."

"I'd like to come too, if it's alright? I did promise Robyn I'd finish her bedtime story. If she's with Honour that's even better. I could come over and-"

"No, she needs her rest, Robin..." Emma spoke up for the first time. "You can come another day."

He glared back at her, the first time any hint of real annoyance had passed his face. "You'll forgive me Emma, but this really isn't your decision! I've been away from my children for the last five years, so I intend to see them. Today."

And that just made her own blood boil. "Now look, Hood. You don't just come in here and expect to take over!"

The blonde's dismissive tone, and the use of his nickname, just capped it!

"Take over? What the hell are you talking about? I'm their father! Roland, Honour and Robyn's father. I've just spent five years away from them, picking up all manner of shit in the Underworld, as a direct result of backing you up on a fucking rescue mission! You may be the Saviour Emma, but in this you have no say! You married Regina. I accept that, and I've already said I'll not interfere with your lives." His voice turned even colder. "But know this. You will NOT interfere in any way, when it comes to MY contact with MY children!"

Emma bristled, feeling barely suppressed anger about to blow. And that magic? Shit, he looked pissed! Regina had stayed silent during the exchange, placing both hands on her wife's arm to calm her. "It's quite alright, Emma; Robin should be able to see them. He has every right."

She realised, once again, she'd gone too far, allowing her own emotions and bitterness towards him to get the better of her. She pulled back, raising her hands. "I'm sorry. Of course you have the right. It's just that-"

"It's alright," he'd also calmed. A little. "I get it. I know this is difficult for you."

Neither blinked. He moved closer, Emma unsure what he was going to do. "But you and I really need to talk! So would be a good time." It sounded more like an instruction than a request.

"Perhaps later, we could-"

"No, Emma. Now. Please? This can't drag on."

She nodded. Robin waved his arm to his right, indicating she join him over by the edge of the small lake nearby. "Let's go sit over there?" With a small flick of his eyes a large rug appeared on the lawn. Far enough away from prying ears. even Ruby's.

~oOo~

The pair walked away from the group in silence. When they reached the rug, she sat, crossing her legs, head down, avoiding eye contact. Robin sat opposite, now unsure how to start; so Emma did it for him. And boy did she let him have it!

"You saw everything, didn't you? My life! My thoughts! Everything that makes me what I am, dammit!" Her voice was flat, trying to hold her emotions in check.

"That's true, but you know it was unintentional."

"You violated me!"

"And for that, I can only apologise. Remember, it only happened when I touched your brow? I was worried because you looked very pale, Emma, nothing more. Zeus has given me powers I wasn't even aware of. And frankly, it feels like more of a curse than a gift! Merlin's only just shown me how to turn some of them off, including how to stop reading thoughts accidentally."

"Can you imagine what that's like?" Emma didn't appear to have heard him. "To know, that you know, everything about me? Everything I've ever done? Because now you were there too! Everything! My shit childhood. Running away from adoption homes. Winding up in prison. Getting pregnant. Henry. Neal. Even my bloody sex life, for god's sake?"

"Again, I do regret that. And I apologise-"

"I DON'T WANT YOUR FUCKING APOLOGIES!" she yelled back at him. It was only then she noticed that the group on the lawn never even looked at them. Apart from Regina, who never took her eyes off the pair. Robin saw where she was looking, holding back the urge to scan her mind. Thank you for that, Merlin.

"I've put a soundproofing spell around us." He explained.

"What, here? Out in the open? How?"

"Merlin's lessons. It's like an invisible dome. We can walk in and out, but within it nobody can hear us."

"How the hell did you get to learn to read minds, and create bloody spells, so quickly?"

"Merlin. He passed on his knowledge, or at least the relevant bits, to me through his thoughts. Like a very concentrated bunch of life lessons, directly into my mind. I seem to have scanned hundreds of years worth of information."

"So now what? You know everything! Your children live in my house; my own son hates me; my wife's in love with you; you now have magic? Even more powerful than mine! So what now, Hood? Do I just up and go? Do I just give in, and walk away and leave Regina and your happy family?"

"Of course not. I've told you several times already, I will NOT come between the two of you. Yes, I love her, but she loves you, and I want her to be happy. I know you hate me and wish I was still dead, but I've got children! I'm not going anywhere, and neither are you. We'll find a way to manage. Somehow."

"I don't hate you, I hate what you are! So fucking perfect. Everyone's hero. Regina's still in love with you, I know that much. You've probably read her thoughts, too?"

"I heard everybody's, not just yours. I told you, I didn't know how to stop it!"

"How would you like it if I knew everything about you, huh? About you and Marian? Or should that be Zelena? Or if I knew what you were like in bed with them? Would you feel invaded then? I'd like to read your mind, so you have some idea. But no, its easy life for you! Perfect Robin-fucking-Hood!"

At the mention of his first wife, something clicked inside Robin, his anger rising. After all, this was the same woman who once clubbed his Marian over the back of the head, stopping her from getting to him, only to be killed by the ginger bitch as she lay unconscious!

"You want that? To read my bloody perfect, easy life? Well see for yourself!" Without any warning, he pulled Emma's right hand out of her own lap, and slapped it bang on the centre of his forehead, forcing his memories to come.

The flood of brilliant yellow light that flashed across her eyes made Emma's breath hitch! Daylight fell away, to be replaced by images and sounds. Images of a young boy in a small castle. Images and sounds of beatings by a strict father. Images and sounds of a young man being dragooned into the King's army, against his will. Images of training as an archer and swordsman. Images of the man being told of his father's death. Of his mother's death. The loss of his sister, kidnapped and held to ransom. Images of his escape from the army, his near starvation. Images of him helping the poor and destitute in the forest. Of creating a band of brothers to help him in his fight to stop the poor starving to death by stealing from the rich to feed them. Of Marian, of falling in love and their wedding in the forest. Their physical intimacy was overwhelming, including several episodes with a younger girl! Of Marian giving birth to a little boy. The tragedy on hearing the news of her death at the hands of the Evil Queen's men. Of meeting the same transformed woman years later. Of their romance. Then onto his time in Storybrooke after the curse. Of rekindling their romance. Of Marion's momentary return from death, only to be cruelly shot away when the Wicked Witch was revealed to have killed her. The sheer level of hatred for Zelena was overwhelming! Of his return to Storybrooke and his true love, His travels in the Underworld and eventual murder at the hands of Hades. His time in the Underworld with King Arthur and Killian, and his final return, thanks to Zeus.

Thousands upon thousands of visions; all including the sounds, feelings, pain and trauma. Including the pain of his last two days. A man's whole life flashed through her mind in a matter of moments.

Emma's hand fell away from his head as she reeled back n shock. Slowly opening her eyes, Emma now saw the man before her, having witnessed his life completely.

"I'm sorry…I had no idea," she mumbled, taking her hadn't back.

"I thought under the circumstances, as you felt I violated you, you should at least have the chance to violate me."

Her feelings of anger were now replaced with overwhelming sadness. Robin slowly stood, offering his other hand to help her stand. As she did, she lifted her face, and he could see red, tear-filled eyes.

"I guess it wasn't so bad. Hardly the perfect life, but unlike so many, I survived."

Surprisingly, Emma raised her arms up and around his neck, pulling him into a hug. He understood, having felt the pain of her memories yesterday. His arms went around her lower back as they held each other in silent comfort, remaining like that, for another minute or so.

~oOo~

The gathering higher up the lawn remained focused on Merlin and his daughter, as under his guidance, Killian performed several new tricks with his magic, and the new arrivals entertained them with stories.

However, Regina couldn't take her eyes off whatever was going on between her wife and former lover. Robin seemed to be doing most of the talking, Emma with her head down. Then she saw her yell at him, cheeks bright red and her anger obvious. However, there was no sound? Clearly a spell was in place. But a silencing charm out in the open? She'd never seen that before. She saw how Robin remained calm, until Emma seemed to have said something that riled him again. Regina grew worried when he picked up her hand and slapped it on his own head!

Feeling the urge to rush over as Emma now sat transfixed, the brunette felt a large hand gently grip her upper arm. Snapping her head around, she immediately faced the twinkling eyes of Merlin.

"Everything's okay, Mrs. Swan-Mills. They need this!"

"What? How do you know what's going on?" She realised the question was stupid and the answer was obvious. He's the Sorcerer!

"They're healing each other. They're learning to come to terms with each other. For your benefit."

She raised a brow, glaring at him. "You read their minds as well?"

"Yes, but not this time. I know where your all your paths go…" He continued that annoying smug grin.

It was easy to forget just how powerful the Sorcerer was. But standing so close, she could now sense the enormously strong magical aura surrounding him. "You still time travel? You foresee the future?"

"I can, but It's dangerous, so I use it rarely, and selectively."

"But you know what'll happen to all of us?"

"Mostly. Obviously, I can't discuss anything relating to your futures specifically. But I can tell you that you will achieve happiness Regina, in a most unexpected way. And those two over there will always be a critical part of it." He glanced across. It was at that point she saw Robin help Emma stand up. Seeing Emma hug Robin was a surprise! Seeing Robin respond in kind, by hugging her back was an even bigger one! It threw her. She could see it was only comfort, rather than intimacy, but it still left her feeling confused.

Robin stepped back, once side of his chest wet with tears. "We should head back. Your wife's going to be worried." He smirked, relieved when she smiled back.

"Yeah. This is going to look odd." Linking her arm with the Outlaw's, they started walking back up the incline from the lake, to join the rest of the party.

Regina watched them approach, arm-in-arm. They both appeared to be red-eyed but smiling.

Regina felt unsure of herself. "Merlin - what magic, over mine and Emma's, does Robin have now?"

"Do I detect a little envy, Regina? I thought that was your sister's area of expertise?"

"I'm just curious. I want to know what you've done to him?"

"Nothing. I merely released everything that's in there. Well, almost everything."

"The blue moth yesterday mentioned that Robin's something called a 'Stage Ten Mage'? I've never even heard the term! What is it? Is he on a par with Gold? Are we going to have problems in the future?"

"Quite the opposite. Locksley has magic with a clean slate. It's hard to compare light and dark magic, as you well know. However, if you did, Rumpelstiltskin is probably a nine. For example, he can't scan minds, or time-travel."

"Robin can time travel? But that's impossible without…" her mind went back to all the problems the heroes faced when her sister succeeded in travelling back in time. Zelena needed a baby's heart, didn't she?

"It's the most powerful of all magical abilities after true love, and the one thing left to teach him. As for reading minds, I've shown him how to stop and control it. He's also telepathic now, of course."

"How did you fit it all in, it's only three in the afternoon?"

"Magic, Regina, pure magic. Think of it like reloading a computer," he grinned, as they were joined by the pair, "Lifetimes of experience crammed into moments."

Before Regina had a chance to speak to Emma, who was now looking sheepish, Merlin tapped on the cuff attached to her wrist. "Who did this?"

"Gold. Emma has one, too. We upset our Dark One yesterday, so he slapped this on each of us for one day, to teach us a lesson. We can't take them off. Tink tried, so I guess we just have to-" she stopped talking, as Merlin merely lifted her wrist, placed a finger under the cuff and prising it off like it was a trinket. Regina knew removing a cuff of the Dark One was never an easy feat. She'd tried it before herself, but recognised in Merlin, despite his mild, diffident manner, serious magical ability well beyond her own.

"Thank you," she turned to her wife to witness, to her surprise, Robin removing her own cuff with no effort. Emma didn't see the significance, though Regina certainly did. She looked across at Merlin, who saw what she was thinking.

"Stage Ten Mage, Regina?" he nodding toward the the other man.

"Are you reading our minds now too, Sorcerer?"

"I didn't need to. I just saw the look on your face."

As Robin flipped the cuff from her wrist, Emma felt her magic ripple charge through her body once again, instantly making her feel stronger. Looking up at him, she gave a cautious grin.

"Thanks."

"You're welcome. So, are we good? Now we know everything there is to know about each other?"

"I guess," she slipping from his arm and moved to face her wife.

"What was that all about?" Regina asked, her eyes wide and quizzical. "You seem a little brighter?"

"I am. We sort of…cleared the air." Emma still seemed slightly sheepish, as though hiding something. She wrapped her arms around the other's slim waist, kissing her cheek. Regina responded in kind, wrapping hers around Emma's back as the pair stood silently staring into each other's eyes, waiting for the other to speak.

"Robin put your hand on his head. What happened?"

"A lot. It's a little difficult to explain but I'll tell you later; just trust me. I love you." Putting her hands on the brunette's cheeks, she turned her head to give her wife a peck on her lips, accepted readily.

"And I you," she whispered back, conscious of the near presence of her former lover.

Robin found the intimacy between the two women hard to witness, so turned to face his magical mentor, who'd been joined by Anna. "Merlin, thanks again for all your help today. Is there more to come? Will you be staying a while?"

Merlin looked to his daughter, giving her a silent nod. It was then Robin realised what had been happening. The Sorcerer and his daughter had been communicating telepathically, having recognised the signs and looks between them.

"Now you know, some people could interpret that as rude!" he said, still grinning.

Annabelle giggled. "Sorry Robin. Force of habit! Dad and I were just having a chat about you three and your situation. It's just, knowing what we do…"

"Annabelle!" her father interrupted, a serious tone now in his voice. "We do NOT discuss the future with those involved, do er? Not ever!"

"Sorry dad, it's just…so…so exciting!" she pretended to be suitably chastened.

Robin smiled at the father and daughter. Would he be like this with his own girls one day? Would he be so close to them he could speak to them without words? And if so, would that make Roland feel like an outsider?

"Robin, Anna and I will be staying here at the convent for a while, so I suggest we get our accommodation sorted out. Then we need to speak of other matters. Reul has kindly allowed us stay here, but I don't want to be a burden..."

Blue appeared at his right side. "I assure you, My Lord, you and Annabelle are no burden! We'd be more than honoured to have you both here. We have plenty of spare rooms and everything you need. Please stay?"

"Well, perhaps that could work. Thank you. I was thinking of staying in Storybrooke for a little while, anyway. Annabelle is recovering from her accident after all. She could do with a break."

Blue smiled at his daughter. "Then it's settled. Both of you are welcome to stay as long as you like. Please treat this as your home while you're here?"

Anna, ever the most tactile one of Merlin's daughters, stepped up and hugged Blue tightly. "Thank you, Miss Ghorm. Dad always said how lovely you were..." Blue blushed.

"Call me Reul. or Blue. Any child of Merlin's is a friend of mine!"

"Perhaps I can help while I'm here? Now dad's fixed my back, how about I help in the hospital? I gather there is one? I don't need paying while I'm here." She looked to her father to see him nodding.

"Good idea, my love. But probably best if you speak to the hospital management first? Perhaps Regina here can make the introductions? She was mayor after all. Now, I propose we wrap up for the evening, and I'll continue with Robin and Killian tomorrow morning." He stepped closer to the former pirate. "Captain Jones, forgive me but I sense that you're troubled?"

"More confused than troubled, if I'm honest. Zeus gave me powers, a new hand, a restored ship and a second chance. I'm a former pirate. A murderer. I've done some pretty shameful things in my life. I can understand Locksley here being bestowed these gifts, but not me..."

Merlin smiled. "A former pirate! A former murderer! You are redeemed, Captain. You've gone on to sacrifice yourself for these people! I know most of your story. You've helped many in purgatory move on to their afterlife. You've more than compensated for your earlier misjudgements. If Zeus thinks you've earned this, you have. And I know he has plans for you. Wonderful plans!"

Annabelle stepped in front of Robin, her face breaking into a huge grin. "I'm so pleased I've got to meet you! After seeing all the films, the cartoons and TV, my brother is going to be so jealous I got to meet the real-life Robin Hood!" As with Blue, Anna wrapped him in a huge hug, pecking a kiss on his cheek. "You're one of his all-time heroes!"

Robin, enjoying the flattery, blushed. "Erm, I'm not sure what to say to that?"

"Well, I suppose you could give me your autograph" she sniggered.

"My auto - what?"

"Your seal, mate!" Interrupted Killian, appearing at her side. "The beautiful doctor here intends to wind up her brother, having met the famous thief of legend."

Realising the former pirate was up close, it was Annabelle's turn to blush. "Oh God...I mean…um…I would like yours too Captain? If you wouldn't mind?" She avoided his eyes and her cheeks became red, clearly flustered, much to Robin's amusement, realising a serious crush when he saw it.

"I'd be delighted," he smiled simply, oblivious to the effect it had on her.

"Th…thanks!" she stuttered, easing her hand out as a small writing pad and pen appeared in her hand. She offered it to Robin. "A short note will do. His name's Charles. Charlie. A simple message would do."

Robin took the pen and paper, before twitching his wrist to magically produce a small slate to rest it against. For a moment he deliberated, before writing:

Dear Charlie, I have been delighted to meet your lovely sister and father, who have taught me so much today. I hope one day I will have the opportunity to meet you and the rest of your family. Until then, do keep them all safe. Live well, Robin of Locksley (Robin Hood).

"That's a bit formal?" Killian muttered, as Robin passed him the slate, pen and pad across to him. He wrote:

Charlie, I've lived two and a half centuries; believe me when I tell you, I've met many women, but your sister is one of the most gorgeous I've ever set eyes on! Something you probably don't want to hear, right? Here's to a shared rum one day! Killian Jones, formerly Captain Hook. PS. Your dad's not too bad looking either!"

Robin chuckled. "I do apologise for my friend here, milady. He never was subtle!"

Anna looked at what he'd written, her cheeks still red. He likes me? However, seeing her father glance back, she recovered her composure. Come on girl. Confidence! You can do this! "Nothing to apologise for, I assure you. Now, Captain Jones, I'm new to this place. Is there a decent bar here? How about I buy you a drink, or are you too set in your ways to let a woman buy you one?"

Killian, delighted by her forwardness, briefly glanced across at Emma who he noticed had, while holding rigidly to her wife's hand, clearly been listening in, their eyes meeting before he replied.

"Doctor Sage, you misjudge me!" He feigned his upset. "I've been around a while. I'm more than happy for a beautiful woman to buy me a drink. Anytime! In fact, I know just the place. It's a grubby little dive called the Rabbit Hole, but they serve a decent rum."

Anna visibly relaxed, trying to mask her nerves. She was by nature very confident, but this guy in leather was definitely having an effect. "Sounds great. Now, you two. May I have a selfie please? I'll WhatsApp my sisters, just to wind them up!"

The former outlaw and pirate looked to each other, equally confused. "Erm…'selfie'? 'What's up?' Sorry love, I don't know what the hell you're talking about?"

"Oh, for goodness sake!" Ruby cackled from the side. "Anna wants to take your picture! A selfie's a photo she can take with her phone and send it over to others! Here, I'll do it. Rob, give me that phone I lent you?"

He handed it to Ruby without further ado. "Now, you two, get either side of her, get close, look at me and say 'cheese'!"

Killian appeared dumbfounded. "What's cheese got to do with anything?"

Tink sniggered. "Just smile, you fool!"

Amid more laughter and a couple of pictures, once Killian got the idea, he mouthed something at Robin and asked, "Just one more please, Rubes!" Just as she did, Killian and Robin both turned their faces to place loud and very blatant kisses on both Anna's cheeks.

She giggled. "Cheeky!"

"Perfect," said Ruby, "I'll definitely have a copy for myself."

Merlin didn't seem bothered by Killian's blatant flirting with his daughter, knowing she was more than capable of taking care of herself, or any unwanted male attention. However, Regina couldn't help but notice the annoyed look on Emma's face as she saw the pirate and Merlin's daughter now flirting so openly. She was about to ask what was wrong, when Robin turned to address the gathering.

"Well, ladies and gentlemen…and…Jones," he said it with a wry smile at his friend as the group laughed. "It's been a long but very educational afternoon. At least for me. I'm just going to check in on my children, but I'll see you in the Rabbit Hole in a couple of hours, no doubt. Our former pirate here told me he is buying the drinks for all tonight, so everyone's welcome!" He smirked at his friend, who narrowed his eyes at him.

"You cheeky bastard, Locksley!" Jones called, eyes narrowing but without any obvious venom.

"Well, you can both magic up ready cash now! It's in a good cause, and it's not as though we're going to leave you broke, is it? So, come on, get her hand in your pocket for a change, pirate!"

"Fair point, thief." He replied before turning to the small gathering. "Ladies, gentlemen and…erm…Outlaw." More chuckles from the fairies. "I set sail for Neverland and Agrabah on the first tide Saturday. As I have no idea when I will come back, or indeed if I will come back, I would be honoured to buy all you a drink or two at the Rabbit Hole this evening. All are welcome! Oh, and Robin's buying the food!" Another cheer rang out as Robin theatrically sighed with a resigned grin.

Blue was about to decline on behalf of the fairies, when Merlin interrupted. "That sounds a grand idea! I hope the beer's decent? It'll give me a chance to catch up with everyone else. Come on, Reul, let's party!" he said, with a slightly flirtatious grin.

"Well, how can I refuse?" she smiled back.

"You can't." said the old master, enveloping her in a hug. The rest of the fairies looked shocked, never having seen their chief look affectionately at anyone before, let alone being cuddled by a man. And so, so, girly! Clearly Merlin and Blue had some sort of history, Tink thought to herself.

As the group prepared to leave, Anna took Killian's arm, for him to lead, when they heard Mulan's shrill yelp.

"ROBIN?" she yelled, racing towards him as, without warning, his face blanched, eyes closed and he slowly buckled, collapsing on to the lawn in front of them. Mulan bent down quickly to her old friend, as he blanked out, unsure what to do.

At Mulan's screech, Regina looked down, horrified, letting go of her wife's hand, before rushing forward and kneeling down to the stricken man, now lying quite unconscious. "ROBIN? Oh, my God, Robin!"

As the fairies crowded around Robin's still body, Regina placed a tender hand on his cheek. "What…what just happened?" she breathed, looking across to Mulan on his other side, knowing she had no answer.

Merlin knelt down beside him too, also looking worried and very unlike him. "Oh dear, this can happen very occasionally, with such a massive magical release. Reul, could we take us both to your hospital?" he reached over to take Blue's hand. "As you know the way?"

"Of course," the pair, and Robin's body, were instantly engulfed in white mist, leaving a stunned Mulan and Regina kneeling either side of where the body had lain moments ago.

"Where…where did they take him?" screeched Regina, looking up at the equally bewildered group.

Merlin's daughter looked down at the distraught face of the brunette. "Um…the hospital, I think he said!"

Regina looked up at Emma. "Please collect Honour from Zelena? I'll see you at home..." before instantly disapparating, not even giving her a chance to answer. Emma was too stunned to respond.

Storybrooke Hospital

"Holy shit!" Whale yelled, as three figures, one floating on some kind of stretcher, appeared from a white smoke shroud directly in front of him. Recognising the Blue Fairy, he realised something was seriously wrong.

"My apologies, Doctor?" said the grey-bearded man. "We're in need of urgent assistance! Our friend here has fallen into a coma. Would you oblige?" his strong English accent demanded Whale's attention. "You know Reul Ghorm, of course?" Blue politely smiled, nodding. "I'm Merlin Sage."

"Yes, of course I know Blue. I..." then recognising the name, Whale's jaw dropped. "THE Professor Sir Merlin Sage?" he breathed, having read many of the man's medical treaties, recognising a master in his field.

"Indeed. And you are?"

"Doctor…Victor Whale. I'm honoured to meet you, Professor," he gushed, shaking the man's hand. "I'm a great admirer of your work!"

"Thank you, Doctor Whale, but please just call me Merlin, okay? Now, my friend here is in need of some rather urgent assistance. He collapsed some moments ago; now I think I know the reason, which is almost certainly magical rather than medical. However, to be sure, do you have facilities to carry out a PET scan?"

Victor Whale looked at Merlin in wonder, but tried to focus. "Yes. We have a fairly new scanner here. Oh, and please call me Victor? What we are looking for? Who's the patient and how did the incident occur?"

As the Sorcerer was about to answer, Regina quietly appeared in the doorway, having apparated, now her magic was working, in front of the reception desk some moments ago. She listened in silence.

"This is Robin of Locksley, rightful heir to the old Sherwood throne, and recently returned from death."

Victor's eyes widened as he looked again at the patient, annoyed with himself for not having recognised him immediately. "Robin Hood? Well I heard he was back. What happened?"

"Locksley here was returned by Zeus himself; A great honour. He's given him magical abilities. It's hard to explain, but basically, I switched that magic on fully today. He's absorbed a vast amount of information. Centuries worth of magic, in fact. As a result, I think it's overwhelmed him. So much so, he fell unconscious only a few minutes ago, hence the reason for the scan. I believe he'll come out of it, eventually. But I need to be sure."

Leaning over the body, Whale slowly raised each of the unconscious man's eyelids, shining a small torch to check the state of his pupils, then producing a stethoscope to listen to the man's heart. After several quiet minutes giving him a detailed examination, "Well he's under pretty deep! His heart's beating remarkably slowly, so I think he's unlikely to come round anytime soon. Have you seen this sort of reaction to whatever you did, before?"

"Yes, over five centuries ago. A beautiful young woman was similarly gifted by the gods. She never woke." Merlin wiped a tear from his eye as a hidden memory resurfaced.

Victor sensed his pain. "A close friend?"

"A wife."

"Oh, I'm sorry. Well hopefully our facilities are a little better these days? I'll do my best for him. Robin Hood once did my family a great service many years ago. I kinda owe him."

It was only then they heard a trembling, broken voice from the doorway. "Are you saying - Robin could die?"

Looking up at her, Victor Whale stiffened. "Not on my watch, Regina!"

The room descended into silence as the four of them looked at Robin's lifeless body. Blue, silent until now, moved across to gently stroke the cheek of the supine former outlaw, while Regina remained frozen with worry.

"You know, there is so much unwritten about this remarkable man," the fairy said, morosely. "Robin came from a truly royal family, fought in countless battles, saved hundreds of lives by rescuing so many from starvation and poverty. Fled the kingdom, a region of which his family once ruled. He even once saved some of my fairies from a rather horrible foe and, even produced a Saviour of his own."

"Please stop talking about him in the past tense? He's still here!" Regina croaked irritably, moving to Robin's right side and taking his hand in her own, tears threatening to spill. Blue nodded staying silent.

"Indeed he is, and hopefully you will have your true love back with you again fairly soon," Merlin tried to lift the defeatist mood.

"Oh…no! He isn't my…um…well, I'm married now…" Regina stuttered, "Robin and I…well, we were together. But now, he's, well…" she dried up, blushing slightly.

The Sorcerer smiled. "A friend, a confidant, a lover, a past & future soulmate! I know what you were, are and will be, Regina. I've seen it!"

What the hell's that supposed to mean? Feeling flustered and embarrassed, she avoided responding, instead turning to Whale. "Doctor Whale…may I be stay with him till he wakes up?" she asked, more nervous than usual. Whale and Regina were usually caustic towards one another, for so many historical reasons. However, seeing the distressed woman in front of him, he couldn't help but feel sympathy.

"Of course you can. We have a room with an armchair? We'll move him in there after the scan..." He smiled. "We should be able to take him down in a few minutes, so I'll best get cracking. Professor, sorry, Merlin, would you care to join me? As we're dealing with magic here, that's more your field I think?"

"I'd be delighted Victor. Reul, care to join us?

An hour later and still unconscious, Robin was wheeled back into his room, Regina waiting anxiously. Two nurses moved quickly to secure the bed and attach IV lines into his arms and a respirator and mask over his mouth.

"Nurse, is that strictly necessary? I thought he was only unconscious?"

"A little deeper than that, Miss Mills. Sorry, Mrs. Swan-Mills. He's in a coma and his breathing's weak, so this is standard hospital policy. I'm sure Doctor Whale will be in shortly? He'll bring you up to date. Meanwhile, here's a button next to the bed if you need me?" The nurse left the room, leaving her alone with her ex-love.

Looking at Robin lying there, with the heart monitor bleeping and the gentle hiss of the oxygen supply, Regina felt so many emotions, though mainly sadness and fear. Pulling a chair closer, she took his hand in hers.

"Oh Robin, how on earth did we get here?" she spoke softly. "I've missed you so much. I thought losing Daniel was bad enough, but you! Why the hell did you go and throw yourself in front of Hades like that? Did you even think about Roland? You gave your life, but at what cost? That boy's been to hell and back every bit as much as me!" Her voice grew steadily louder as memories resurfaced, tears now openly falling down her cheeks. "How could you do that? I took an overdose Robin! I even tried to kill myself!" she felt ashamed. "Me, the Evil Queen! You left me Robin! You, you left me! Why?" She was almost yelling at the supine patient now, when a deep, calm voice behind made her jump.

"To save you Regina. And save your unborn daughter, as it happened!" Merlin walked to the other side of the bed. "Without his sacrifice, you'd both be dead. And what of his other daughter? Do you begrudge her life, too?"

"Of course not! Honour's one of the things that kept me going."

"Well there's your answer."

"Merlin, I just-" Unfortunately, her response was interrupted by the steady gentle beeping of the heart monitor attached to the patient, suddenly changing to that dull single tone.

Robin's heart had stopped!

"NO! NOT AGAIN!" Regina yelled, as Whale raced into the room, followed by the crash team.

~oOo~