Today's the day Ruby Lucas, the former Little Red Riding Hood, marries Dorothy Gale, the former Hero of Oz, The woman she woke from a sleeping curse with True Love's Kiss. The wedding to be held on the Jolly Roger and conducted by Captain Hook. What could be more romantic? Having already proposed to their own, to them, soulmates Fa Mulan, Aurora and Philip Briar take full advantage of the impromptu arrangements to bring forward the date of their own nuptials. It's going to be a long day!
Early Friday morning – Sherwood
Archie Hopper loved nothing more than the first hour of the day, usually spent walking Pongo through the forest, or like now, down to the harbour.
The sun shone brightly in a cloudless sky and as usual, Archie found himself being stopped regularly by friends, patients and well-wishers alike. Pongo, resigned to this, now sat patiently for every interruption; his master was, after all, one of the most popular, friendly faces in Storybrooke. In earlier years he would impatiently break away and have to be tracked down. Now, in middle age, the Dalmatian sat content, knowing they'd be on their way again in due course.
The town psychiatrist and conscience held more secrets, confidences and intimate knowledge of most residents than anyone. Even the former Evil Queen and Dark One. Even those two, and Emma, came to him in times of crisis or worry, for counsel or unburdening. His discretion was assured and his biggest joy was seeing his patients overcome their burdens to lead happier lives. However, the man who now greeted him had never sought his counsel. Had always seemed, on the outside, a picture of calm, despite the traumatic experiences of his life. A man who'd felt loss many times. A man who had uniquely lived, survived, died and apparently, came back?
"Robin, good morning to you! Lovely day for a wedding or two, isn't it?" he offered his hand.
Robin shook it, dropping to his knee to offer Pongo a stroke. The Dalmatian, recognising a friendly soul, instantly moved closer to be petted. "It is. And you're officiating both?"
"Not quite. Captain Jones will be officiating Ruby's marriage to Miss Gale. I'm merely a guest for that one, though I've been asked to speak. But I'll be officiating for the Briars when they wed Miss Fa. I'm rather excited about that one. I've never performed a triad wedding before!"
"And I've never witnessed one. They're certainly ideally suited; I've known Mulan for quite some time; she used to be one of my merry men. So is a 'triad' wedding actually a legal thing?"
"It is here, and in the Enchanted Forest, though still not legally recognized in the world without magic. It's unusual certainly, though it's been done before. Technically, you can marry as many people as you want, provided all are willing."
"Philip's asked me to be Best Man. So I'd best prepare a speech, I guess. However, Doctor, I wanted to ask you something?"
"Of course, but call me Archie, or I'll have to start calling you 'Lord Locksley!"
"Anything but that! Archie, I wonder if I could book a little time? I've something bothering me on which I need your advice. I know you're close friends with Emma and Regina and, well, most of the town, but I was wondering-"
"I can only ever discuss you Robin, and no one else, but of course I'll see you. Whatever you say to me is ALWAYS in strictest confidence! I'd never survive in this place otherwise. Come see me, say Monday afternoon, around three?"
"Thanks, I appreciate it. Well I best get off. Are you heading there now? Seems a bit early?"
"It is, but sadly I've a more sombre task to perform first. Namely, the funerals of those killed a few days ago, mainly at Sherwood clinic? The former King George and his fallen. Will you be attending?"
Hardly bloody likely – I killed him!
"Probably best not Archie, given the circumstances, don't you think?"
Storybrooke Cemetery - an hour later
A small group gathered around the grave, as Albert Spencer's coffin was slowly lowered into the ground. The priest had said a few words but, with no family present, he couldn't resist adding his own little flourish.
"Ashes to ashes, dust to dust. If god doesn't take us, the devil must."
Although he'd been universally loathed, the man was a former King. As such, the other former monarchs and senior royals felt obliged, honour-bound to attend any royal funeral. Regina and Snow stood nearby, Regina flanked by Will Scarlett and Friar Tuck. The four were just out of earshot as the ceremony closed. Charming stood by the graveside, spade ready, to assist in the final act.
"Personally, I'd like to see a gravestone over 'im that says 'Under this sod, lies another!' or how about 'Albert Spencer - Arsehole?' Will's aside caused Regina to look down so she wouldn't be seen be seen sniggering. "Or how about-"
"Shush, enough!" Tuck whispered loudly. "Show some respect for the dead? Even if he was an arsehole!"
That set Regina off more, as she tried stifling her laughter by cupping a hand over her mouth, looking down to avoid being seen showing disrespect to the fallen. Seeing her shoulders start shaking, Tuck grinned, unable to resist going further.
"Now look what you've done, Scarlet? You've got our Gina crying, she's so upset!"
She knew she couldn't lift her head up now. "Bastards. I'll get you for this!" She whispered back, causing both men to smile.
Regina loved Robin's old friends. Since they brought Roland back to her a year after his murder, John, Will and Tuck had gone out of their way to welcome her into their little community, for Roland's sake. She'd shed tears with them over Robin's passing, and eventually they'd grown to become the younger and older siblings she'd never had. Henry often spent weekends at the camp and even Emma, previously suspicious of the former thieves, had grown to like and even trust a few of them.
"Will you two shut up?" snapped Snow, angrily whispering back. "Know your place! They're burying a former king, for goodness's sake!"
"They're burying a former wanker!" Will snapped back. "And what do you mean, 'know my place'? I've no time for kings or queens, or any of that sanctimonious, self-important bullshit. Stupid bloody institutions, if you ask me."
"Nobody did ask you! And if they're so stupid, why did you go and marry a queen yourself? And why did you come to a royal funeral?" Snow growled back, irritated by his lack of respect.
"To make well sure the bastard's dead! And find out who's attending, so we know who we'll have problems with, in future."
Regina calmed herself, taking a handkerchief from her bag to dab at her eyes. Nearer the graveside, Archie spoke his final words for the fallen, out of earshot.
"You coming to both weddings later, Gina?"
"I'm not sure. Emma's convalescing. She was asleep nearly all yesterday. We'll see."
"You must come!" Will urged, "Ruby's one of Emma's mates isn't she? And Mulan's one of ours. Seems a pity to miss 'em? I'm sure Em wouldn't mind if you had to come without her?"
"We'll see, Will, but I'm really not promising."
One main reason for avoiding it, was the certain knowledge that Robin would be at Mulan's wedding, as Philip's Best Man. After yesterday, she wasn't sure she should be anywhere near him. Not unless Emma was there too.
Mifflin Street
When she arrived home to get changed out of her funeral clothes, Regina was surprised to find Emma not only awake, but making breakfast. Roland and Honour were busying themselves putting plates on the kitchen table.
"Hi mummy!" Honour called, running into her knees.
Her brother looked his stepmother over. "Why are you dressed all in black?"
"I've been attending a funeral, Roland. Well, several actually."
"Was one of them Albert Spencer? The guy papa killed?"
"Yes, Roland. But I'd prefer you not to talk of such things in front of Honour?"
"Why not?" said the ten-year-old, "Papa had to do it, didn't he? He was gonna kill you, and Emma! Neal and Pip said Emma died outside, on the lawn of the clinic, and dad brought her back to life with a kiss, and woke her up with magic."
"Like a True Love's kiss?" Honour had been paying attention. "Like grandpa did to grandma, and Emma did to Henry?"
As Regina was about to respond, a loud crashing sound came from close by. A crash of a drinks tray hitting the ground, with several glasses shattering.
Emma seemed to be in a state of shock.
"Damn! Oops, sorry!" She looked like a deer in the headlights. "I'll just..." Raising her arms, the broken glasses and jug disappeared from sight. "Sorry guys, thats clumsy of me. Regina, I'll buy us another-" she suddenly stopped talking, as a wave of dizziness made her slump to the floor. "Ooh, er, hell!"
"EMMA!" Regina immediately dropped down to her knees beside her, worried. "WHAT HAPPENED?"
"It's okay! I just suddenly felt really dizzy. I think it might be the magic I just used? Whale did tell me not to, didn't he? I'll be okay in a minute."
~oOo~
So many thoughts raced through Regina's head as Emma returned, carrying a large plate of pancakes. True love's kiss? Where did she get that idea? Then she remembered something Robin had said last night. Something she only picked up on, later.
"There have only been two great loves in my life, and I lost both of them! One of them to a red-haired bitch who even now I want to kill for it, and the other to a saviour. A saviour who I've also started having feelings for."
Regina blanched. Robin. Emma. Robin and Emma? Impossible!
The women stared at one another, each wondering what was going through the other's mind, as she placed the plate on the table. "Well come and eat, everyone - don't let it go cold!" Emma urged them. Anything to change the topic. It seemed to work as the children tucked in, Roland leaning over to grab two more pancakes with his bare hands.
"Roland, you know better than that! Never lean across and grab! Just ask someone to pass you a plate. And say please!"
"Sorry mum," his smile never wavered, revealing dimples he always used to maximum effect whenever he was being chided.
The next few minutes passed in contented munching, until Honour spoke again. "Papa's going to Mulan's wedding. Can we go to that one as well please?"
Regina felt awkward. Henry had said everyone was invited to the second wedding on board the Jolly Roger. But knowing Robin was going to be there throughout made her unsure, especially after what happened last night.
"I'm not sure, dear. You're already going to be a bridesmaid for Ruby and Dorothy, and it'll be a long day. Mulan's won't even start until later in the afternoon and I'm not sure your mum's even well enough to even go out for that one, let alone two of them!"
"Hey," Emma perked up. "I'm well enough for that! I'm not missing Ruby & Dorothy's wedding, no way. They're friends."
Roland spoke through a mouthful of pancake. "Well that's it then, Honyn. If Emma's going, we definitely won't be getting to Mulan's!"
Regina's brow arched. "And what on earth's that supposed to mean, young man?" But he ignored her, looking away. "Roland?"
"It's obvious!" The eleven-year-old almost looked annoyed as he faced Emma. "We all know you don't like my papa, even if he did save your life! You hate him, cos he's back!"
Honour looked at her brother, then across at Emma, like she'd been shouted at. "You hate papa?"
Regina saw the the pained look. "Roland, how could you say such a thing? You take that back at once! And apologise to Emma!"
"Why should I, it's true! She he only talks to him, because you do!"
Emma's heart broke when she saw Honour's hurt face, her lower lip starting to tremble. She had to say something.
"Honour, listen to me very carefully. Roland's completely wrong, I don't hate your papa. In fact, I actually rather like him! Your mummy and papa were together before he died, and he died to save both of you, because she was carrying you in her tummy at the time, though she didn't know it. When he came back, I was worried when he came back she might not love me anymore, and he'd take her away from me. But that isn't true, is it? Because your mum loves you, Roland, Henry, me and your papa. And you know what? Robin and I had a really nice dinner only the other night, just the two of us, so we could get to know each other. I didn't really know him before, but it turns out he's really nice."
The little girl sniffled. "And you love papa too?"
"I like him," she chose the words carefully. "He's a great dad - just like mine."
Roland eyed her, still suspicious. "Do you mean that, Emma? That you like him?"
"Yes, I mean it. I like him."
"So you're okay with him coming over here to be with us?"
Emma couldn't help feeling she was about to be hustled. "Of course. He's welcome over here anytime."
"And we can stay for Pip's folk' wedding, so we get to see him? Both are on the Jolly, anyway, so we don't need to go anywhere else. Then he gets to see Honour in her bridesmaid's dress."
Checkmate. The bugger's just played me.
"Of course. If your mum's okay with it."
Now it was Honour's turn to tighten the screw. "Can I call him to come see me be a bridesmaid at Ruby and Dorothy's wedding? Please mum?"
"He may be too busy, my love!" Regina tried to intervened for her. "Philip's father asked him to do something special for him. To be his Best Man at their own wedding. That means he has quite a few things to do, and make speeches. So he may be too busy preparing for that."
But Roland hadn't finished. "Can you seriously imagine him not wanting to see her? Of course he'll come!"
The Jolly Roger – later
Storybrooke Harbour had never seen anything like it. The infamous former pirate ship, now bedecked in garlands, flags and flowers, stood out against the clear blue sky. Along the adjoining quays, people had started gathering early, and now a large crowd had assembled along the dockside and on board, to witness not one, but two weddings, of some of their most illustrious citizens.
On the fo'c's'le stood Captain Killian Jones, resplendent in full naval uniform, which he hadn't worn in decades. The tight fit made him realise that perhaps a little less rum, and a little more exercise, may be in order? On either side stood Rosie Sage and Tinker Bell, both dressed for the occasion, while in front of him stood immediate friends of the brides-to-be, separated by two aisles. Merlin had already provided a sound system from somewhere, to relay the proceedings to the nearby well-wishers. His son Charlie had sorted out suitable wedding music – Merlin had insisted his son restrain his more adventurous tastes and stick to the classics. "Nothing weird Charlie. This is THEIR day, after all?"
As Roland and Honour were Ruby's pageboy and bridesmaid, Regina had no choice but to stand closer to the front in already-allocated places, to collect them after they'd finished. Emma was now in a wheelchair, lest anyone accuse her of ignoring Whale's explicit instructions. But she now remembered what Ruby had said at the inn, and who was going to be conducting the service. So she offered to wheel further back, and leave Regina to it, while she joined the crowd from further away. But the former queen was having none of it.
"Don't be silly. You'll miss seeing them back there, and besides, I want pictures! Honour's five already, and she's never been a bridesmaid. So I-" Regina stopped talking once she saw Emma's the anxious frown as she looked across at the centre of the little stage. "Why are you suddenly so - oh!" She realized Emma had just spotted Killian Jones on the stage, directly facing them. The blonde looked down. Anywhere, to avoid Killian's attention.
"Oh, for heaven's sake!" Regina whispered, irritated. "Guyliner's history, isn't he? Just avoid him, and you'll be fine."
Emma still kept peering down. She's right, why the hell am I acting like this? He's over me, I'm over him! She repeated the words to herself, even if she didn't fully believe them. I am!
But at the front, Killian's mind seemed elsewhere. Either that, or he was deliberately avoiding glancing her way. As he shuffled several sheets of paper, Emma couldn't avoid gazing over how he was dressed. He wore a bright military uniform she'd never seen him before and never knew he still owned. An embroidered navy-blue tailcoat with gold and white braiding, over a white formal shirt, breeches and white stockings. Like a captain out of something like the Pirates of the Caribbean film, she thought. Her heart skipped at the sight of what must have been his original British naval uniform. With his now neatly trimmed beard, cut and gelled hair, she had to admit he looked seriously good, while that uniform was showing off his upper body just right. Odd feelings swam through her. Memories of what he'd looked like, in the past, under those clothes.
Killian looked up, scanning over the crowd for the brides-to-be, before tilting his head to his right to exchange words with a tall brunette who stood close by, gazing at him, almost in pride. Emma recognised the woman as one of Merlin's daughters. The one who'd driven the huge truck full of medical supplies into the forest for the clinic. He now seemed to be smiling back, winking at her, and sporting a wide grin. He's flirting!
"What's she doing with him?" Emma grumbled under her breath.
"Who?" Regina followed the hard stare. "Oh, her? She's one of Merlin's daughters. You met her a few days ago."
"Rosalind!" Said a new voice to Emma's right. "She asked me to call her Rosie. I met her at Robin's pub. She's really nice."
"Henry? When did you get here?"
"A few hours ago. Rosie helped Vi and me setting up speakers on the dockside and up the masts. She's got really strong magic! Stunning, isn't she?"
Somehow, her son's high opinion of the woman clearly attracted to her ex, irritated her even more. "Why's she up there, with him?"
"She's been helping Killian on the ship the last couple of days. All the bunting and flowers are down to her. They were also out sailing when Spencer's mob attacked the clinic. That's why he didn't know anything about it? I think they've kinda started...dating."
Dating already? How could he? She knew underneath she was being ridiculous. Their relationship was long over but, even so, she couldn't hide her irritation. That's when she felt Regina's arm slide onto her shoulder as the brunette leant down, to whisper: "He was bound to move on, Emma. You did first, so it's not hardly surprising?"
"Yes I know!" Emma grumbled, louder than intended. "Can we change the subject?"
~oOo~
"LADIES AND GENTLEMEN!"
Killian called everyone to order, once he received an agreed nod from Merlin at the back of the ship. "May I have your attention please? Our brides have arrived!"
Giving a nod to Violet at the back, a piano solo started to play as figures boarded from the stern of the ship.
"Oh, that's lovely," Regina was impressed, looking at the short playlist Henry handed her. "Radiant as a Bride, apparently?"
Gasps were heard from most of the women on board as Ruby Lucas, now escorted by David Nolan, slowly made their way up the aisle towards her destiny. As she drew closer, Regina couldn't help but be surprised by the sheer beauty of the bride in her elegant white wedding dress. Made from pure silk, and probably with some magic involved, the boat-necked, three-quarter length sleeved dress flowed over her, accentuating her slender curves perfectly. It was timeless and elegant, and she looked stunning. The bride had left her hair long and wavy, creating a natural look.
Even Emma felt a little choked by the sight, a welcome distraction from thinking about Killian. The cafe owner looked wonderful, and she couldn't help but grin up at her father, seeing him proudly escorting her parents' closest friend, in his prince's uniform. Spotting her, David winked back as he passed. Roland followed immediately behind Ruby, holding her silk train up, as though his life depended on it. Further gasps and admiring comments came from the other guests all around, as immediately behind Roland, Snow White escorted Honour, both impeccably dressed in matching bridesmaid gowns. Emma could see tears already starting to form in Snow's eyes, as she blew her a kiss. And as they passed by, Regina beamed with pride at the beautiful little bridesmaid, as they left the group to stand with their mother.
"Well done, my angel!" She whispered, hugging her to her side.
Ruby was trembling as she stood in front of Killian and Archie, awaiting her bride. Seeing her nerves, Killian leant over closer to her ear, to whisper. "Don't worry love. I assure you, you're not as nervous as me! You look drop-dead gorgeous, by the way? It'll be fine." He rested his hand on hers as she held her bouquet in a death grip, making her relax a little, smiling up in gratitude.
The piano music was still in full flow when the second bride appeared at the back. Dorothy stepped slowly forward, stumbling as her nerves began to get the better of her. "Bugger!" she breathed, panic obvious. But her escort stepped close to her side, moving his right arm from around hers left to gently wrap around her waist, supporting her from behind, to let her straighten herself. In his calm, assuring voice he spoke softly:
"It's okay! Relax. Just lean into me if you need to? Don't worry about anything. You look wonderful today. All's well, and your blushing bride's up there waiting for you. Let's get you hitched, yeah?"
She looked up at him. "Thanks, I needed that. Stay close please, Robin?" He smiled back, releasing her waist to take her arm again. "Of course. Now try to relax, and just enjoy it."
Honour's best friend Alexandra, in a matching bridesmaid's dress, following her and Robin up the aisle. As they made their way, Dorothy relaxed a little, seeing all the smiling welcoming faces and most importantly, Ruby. The pair had decided to wear matching wedding dresses, forgoing the idea that they shouldn't see each other's before the wedding. However, Snow did manage to persuade them that is was unlucky to see each other that morning. So Ruby had spent the night at David and Snow's, while Dorothy joined Mulan and the Merry Men at the Earl of Locksley. Separated from their loves; but now they were to be united, forever.
As Regina watched the gradual arrival of Dorothy, to stand alongside Ruby, she was surprised to see Robin by her side? He smiled across at her, as he stepped up to the stage, also giving Emma a little wink when he spotted her in the wheelchair. Regina looked down at her wife. Was she blushing?
"Ladies and Gentlemen," Killian kicked off, his voice echoing around the harbour from the newly-erected speakers. "We are gathered here today to witness and support the marriage of two exceptional people. Two remarkable women united in love. I've known Ruby some years now, and Dorothy only very recently, but I know I speak for many here when I say I cannot imagine a more perfectly suited couple. Now, the brides-to-be have said they do not wish to make public speeches themselves, so I call upon Doctor Hopper to say a few words before they begin making their vows."
Archie stepped up in front of the pair to deliver a short speech. He knew them well. Unknown to everyone else in the town, Ruby and Dorothy had been patients of his as he had guided them in coming to terms with their losses and their new life, helping them move on. He gave a brief eulogy, saying how valued both of them were in the town, their friends, their achievements, all while throwing in some light jokes at their expense. The fiancées rolled their eyes at him, laughed with him, and Ruby shed a silent tear as she remembered when they all thought he'd been killed by the Evil Queen.
As he finished his speech, Killian thanked him and stood before the brides. "Ruby, would you repeat after me please?"
Killian: "I call upon these persons here present to witness that I, Ruby Rose Lucas, take thee Dorothy Gale, to be my lawfully wedded wife."
Ruby: "I call upon these persons here present, to witness that I Ruby Rose Lucas, take thee Dorothy Gale, to be my lawfully wedded wife."
Killian: "To have and to hold, from this day forward, for richer, for poorer. In sickness and in health… "
Ruby: "To have and to hold, from this day forward, for richer, for poorer. In sickness and in health…"
Killian: "And forsaking all others, to love, honour and cherish, till death do us part."
Ruby: "And forsaking all others, to love, honour and cherish, till death do us part."
He smiled down at her as she stepped back for her bride to take her place. "Okay Dorothy, your turn." Killian smiled at her. "Would you repeat after me please?"
And so, Dorothy made her vows, as Ruby had, while the wolf couldn't contain a cheesy grin, a stray, happy tear falling as her lover declared herself. Coming out of her daze, she didn't really hear what Killian actually said after that, until she felt a light tug on her side. She looked down to find Roland Locksley's dimpled cheeks and cheeky smile.
"Ere you go, Rubes!" Said the young man loudly, offering a cushion supporting two rings. That brought a chuckle from the audience, a raised brow from his father, and a face-down snort from his stepmother.
"Thank you, Rolly my love!" Ruby stooped, kissing his cheek, and taking a ring. Dorothy matched her on the other side and he blushed, deciding women kissing him may not be too bad after all! Ruby then took her fiancée's hand, easing a ring onto her finger. "Dorothy Gale, I've loved you from the moment I met you. I give you this ring as a symbol of that love. I commit my heart and soul to you."
Dorothy now took Ruby's hand to ease her own ring on. "Ruby Lucas, I love you with all my heart. This ring is a token of that love. I marry you with this ring, with all that I have, and all that I am. I commit my heart and soul to you."
"Excellent." Killian stepped closer, taking Dorothy's left and Ruby's right hands together between his own. "Well then, by the power vested in me under maritime law, I am delighted to say I now pronounce you duly married! You may kiss your bride."
The newlyweds turned, wrapping their arms around one another, as lips met in a soft kiss. Nothing too heated. Giggling, Dorothy whispered, "First of many tonight, wife!"
The crowd applauded, as some of the closer guests gathered around them, offering congratulations and hugs. As Robin hugged Ruby, Emma overheard him.
"So is it to be Ruby Lucas-Gale now, Ruby Gale-Lucas, or…"
"Ruby Lucas," said Dorothy, now at her side. "And Dorothy Lucas! We're not big on double-barrelled names, and I'm proud to have hers."
"Are you sure?" said Ruby, "I really don't mind."
"I do, and I'm very sure!" She insisted.
"Well then," Robin released Ruby to envelop Dorothy in a hug. "Congratulations Mrs. And Mrs. Lucas! I know you'll be truly happy."
As the newlyweds then turned to hug Killian and their guests, Regina studied Robin closer. Being distracted by the ceremony, she hadn't noticed that he was wearing a modern, strikingly sharp cut, deep navy-blue single-breasted suit with white formal shirt and tie. Looking seriously gorgeous. Good enough to eat! Where the hell did he buy that at such short notice?"
Aware she may have been staring a little too much for her own good, she glanced back to see if Emma had spotted her, surprised to find that Emma was now staring directly at him too, with an odd, almost lustful look in her eye.
"Daddy, you came!" Honour yelled, lifting her arms to be picked up by her father, Roland having already scarpered to play with a couple of friends he'd seen at the quay.
Robin smiled. "Of course I did, my little love! You're a bridesmaid! I could never miss that now, could I?" He collected the little blonde into his arms, enveloping her in a cuddle. "You were brilliant, and I'm so proud of you, my girl!"
Honour beamed. "Can you can play with me now?" she snuggled in, the pair watched by Emma and Regina.
"I'd love to but, you know, Mulan's getting married in a little while? I'm helping Philip at their wedding, so I need to stay here; but I promise you, I will come and find you straight after that. Then we play, okay?"
Emma smiled as she watched Robin cuddling his girl, his eyes closed in bliss. That dinner she'd had with him made her see him in a very different light. A loved, loving, and devoted father first and foremost. A surprisingly deep, thoughtful and caring man and a born leader. But a father first! Then she recalled those raunchy dreams she'd had about him the last two days. And pretty good in bed!
"You look nice, daddy," Honour properly looked at what he was wearing, before another voice chipped in.
"He does, doesn't he? That's a beautiful suit, Robin. Where on earth did you get that around here at such short notice?" Regina purred admiringly.
"Jefferson sorted me out, with a little magic help from Merlin. He also made me the dinner suit, for when I took Emma out. Jeff took one look at me, said I looked a right ruddy mess, and so he's currently making me a new 'wardrobe'? I thought that was what you hang your clothes in?" he smirked.
Regina chuckled, then Robin turned, spotting Emma below, as she was still sitting in the wheelchair. "Emma, sorry I didn't get a chance to say hello. Thanks for coming out the other night. I really enjoyed it!" Then, without waiting for a response, and still holding Honour in one arm, he leant down to place a kiss on her cheek. Emma responded in kind. However they both, once again, felt that weird tug. A pull, which seemed to guide their mouths slightly to their right, causing lips to collide. Again that buzz? the tug? Surprised, they nonetheless both enjoyed the sensation. As Robin pulled back, the pair gave each other a look. And for a moment, the world around them disappeared, leaving them staring into each others eyes, the silence overwhelming.
"Er..." Emma started, awkwardly. "Me too, I had a great time." the last words said almost in a whisper.
Regina noticed. Anyone else doing that to Emma…well, to either of them, I'd toast them in a heartbeat.
"You look enchanting, Emma," he continued, blue eyes still boring straight into green. "So much better than when I last saw you. That ivory necklace complements your hazel-green eyes to perfection."
"You flatter me, kind sir!" She countered, half-jokingly. "You've scrubbed up pretty well yourself! Nice suit. Works wonders with the shoulders. Girls just aren't safe!" she said the last in a slightly sarky tone, but with another look altogether in her eyes. Regina knew that look! They WERE flirting! What the hell?
"Sorry to break up this mutual admiration society," she whispered to them, "But some of us need to get the little ones home? Emma, let's take a quick drink with the happy couple, then head off."
"NO MUMMY!" Honour yelled, tightening her hold on her father. "I wanna stay with daddy. You promised!"
She rolled her eyes. "Honour, I never promised, I only said that we'll see! Emma, how're you feeling?"
"I'm fine. I don't mind, and frankly, now I'm here it would be different to see my first poly-wedding!" She looked at the refreshments tent on land nearby. "And I could definitely do with a drink!"
Before Regina could remind her she was still on medication, Robin jumped in. "Excellent! Rory, Phil and Mulan are kicking off theirs in an hour. Dot and Ruby made some arrangements with them and said they were all going to share the reception straight after. So, they're coming back up to watch it, then it's going to be one big party. Everybody's going to be here!"
"No argument then," Emma held onto the arms of her wheelchair. "I'm staying."
~oOo~
The next hour passed in a blur, as Ruby & Dorothy posed for endless wedding pictures outside the marquee at the dockside, where most ordered drinks. Eventually Robin & Killian corralled everyone back to the Jolly just before the second bridal party arrived.
With most of the attendees now gently intoxicated and relaxed, It was now Archie Hopper's turn to officiate. Mayor Philip and Princess Aurora arrived onboard to loud applause from the guests, as they walked up to meet Archie, partly to welcome the popular couple, but also in recognition of the recent service he had, days earlier, performed in reluctantly stepping up to the role of Mayor, before also assisting the heroes in resolving the clinic hostage crisis.
As attendees settled, more applause and cheering rang out, as Ruby & Dorothy came back on board the ship, still in their wedding dresses, to sit nearer the front, to reserved seats next to Snow and David.
"You didn't think we were going to miss this, did you?" Ruby announced to general laughter from all, and a wink from Philip, who kissed their cheeks and congratulated the newlyweds.
Archie briefly took Aurora and Philip to one side, to quietly remind them of the order of service. Emma and Regina this time sat a little further back from the temporary stage, although Emma spotted Henry close to the front, holding a small red box.
"Regina, what's Henry doing? He didn't tell me he was helping?"
"Me neither. But doesn't our boy look handsome in that suit?" She gazed proudly at their adult son.
"Yeah, he really does. Sadly, he's not our little 'boy' anymore, is he?"
"No. But now he's our 'man', and he'll always be ours! Now shush, something's happening."
Archie stepped up to the microphone. "Ladies and Gentlemen, could all those sitting please stand as we welcome the arrival of the bride?"
From the ship's stern, classical music began to play. Emma raised an eyebrow, though Regina instantly recognized the tune. "Air on a G String. Bach." she whispered.
Guests turned to look at the entry of the new bride. Emma spotted Violet again, this time standing by the ship's lower rigging with a video camera in hand, filming. Gasps were heard from all around, as Mulan, the warrior, approached. Aurora's jaw dropped in surprise, and Philip's face beamed with delight, at the sight approaching them.
Nobody had ever seen Mulan look like this before! The normally sombre looking tomboy, usually dressed in combat gear or military fatigues, had recently taken to wearing more feminine attire. She now wore a tight fitting, soft pink short-sleeved cheongsam, a traditional Chinese wedding dress, with intricate silver braiding, all of which showed off her curves beautifully, including the small bulge of her abdomen which proudly showed the early stage of pregnancy. Her jet-black hair was now worn long, curled and over one shoulder. She was truly a vision and her waiting partners were overwhelmed.
Mulan was escorted by the imposing figure of Little John, suitably attired in a silver-grey morning suit of his own, followed by two little bridesmaids and an older pageboy. Regina thought she recognized the girls from Sherwood village, along with Philip Junior, or 'Pip', as everyone knew him. Aurora and Philip's seven-year-old boy.
"You look wonderful!" Mouthed a teary-eyed Aurora to their fiancee. "Perfection!" whispered Philip. Mulan smiled up at them, clearly nervous from all the attention. A few feet before she reached them, Mulan stopped and bowed low, a custom from the land of her birth, a gesture of honour and respect. Aurora and Philip mirrored her actions exactly, before rising and smiling amongst themselves. Seeing the woman's hand trembling, Aurora silently took it within her own, before turning to face the front.
"Friends and loved ones!" Archie's voice boomed across the harbour from the sound system. "We are delighted you are all here today, to witness the joining of these three remarkable people. All heroes and friends of this town. We have the Merry Men, the Storybrooke Militia, a fair selection of royalty and councillors, plus so many well-wishers. We welcome you all!" As he spoke, Aurora and Philip silently moved forward, taking Mulan's hand either side as they calmed themselves. Archie now spoke to them directly.
"In this realm, marriage between two, three or more consenting people is a spiritual, sacred and legal bond; a life-long commitment, not to be taken lightly. So, I call upon those present to witness and bless this union. I ask the three of you, do you all consent to this marriage willingly?"
Each of the trio confirmed in turn. "I do."
"Now, before the vows are given, I believe each of you wish to make a short statement?"
Philip nodded, stepping forward and turning to stand directly in front of the two women, facing the audience, pausing to calm himself. "Aurora, my love," he took his wife's hand in his left. "On our wedding day, I made my life commitment to you. After being parted by dark magic, a sleeping curse and finally a wraith, we came together again with true love's kiss. Somehow you managed to love this broken man, and I continue to devote my life to you and the wonderful son you have given me. Today I renew my vow, and swear undying love and faithfulness to you, my darling wife."
He then raised his right hand, to take Mulan's. "My darling Mulan, we came together in desperate times. You helped transform me back from a cursed Yoaguai, then joined me in battle as we fought so many. You saved my life so many times, and helped me unite with my sleeping beauty. I knew then, even when wakening Aurora, that I had feelings for you. I suppressed them, as was right, but when you left us I was inconsolable. It was only when, several years later, Aurora admitted her own feelings for you, that I was able to do so myself. We both sought you out and, when we confessed our feelings to you, and what you meant to us, I was overjoyed to find you felt something for me as well as Aurora. Mulan, if you will accept me as your husband I will also devote my life and love to you, my brave, wonderful, beautiful, fearless warrior."
Mulan sniffled as her almond eyes started to water. However, it was Aurora's turn to speak. "My wonderful husband. I fell in love with you the moment I first set eyes on you! I knew you were the one for me. When Maleficent cursed me, you brought me back to life. When the wraith threatened me, and Mulan, you sacrificed yourself for both of us. Brave, handsome, courageous and sometimes so bloody foolhardy..." Some in the audience laughed. "You gave me that most precious gift of all, our son Philip. When I confessed to you my feelings for Mulan after she left us, you never judged me. You just loved me, as I love you. I pledge my undying love and devotion to you. Forever." She lifted his hand to kiss it, before turning to the warrior.
"My darling Mulan. I first met you when Philip woke me. I was jealous, recognising he had hidden feelings for you, and you certainly showed a love for him. I felt threatened. However, when the wraith took him, you transferred your protection and loyalty to me. As we both grieved over him in our own ways, your loyalty became trust, our trust became friendship, then our friendship turned into something so much deeper. When we got Philip back, I discovered I was pregnant, and you left before I could tell you how I felt. The day we all confessed our feelings to each other and realised they were returned, was the most joyous of my life. I love you, Fa Mulan. And if you will accept me as your wife, I also pledge my undying love, loyalty and devotion to you. Forever."
"Uh oh…here she goes!" whispered Emma to Regina, pointing in the direction of Snow. Her mother could be seen sniffling loudly, tears appearing on her cheeks. "She always does that!"
"She's not the only one!" the brunette nodded in the direction of Little John and several others, who were also weeping. Mind you, Emma did notice Regina was also a little misty-eyed herself. She wrapped an arm around the brunette's waist, pulling her just a little closer to the chair, as Mulan turned to make her own vow.
"Aurora, Phillip. I've always been a soldier, not a speaker, so this is very difficult for me." There were a few 'aahs' of sympathy from the audience as Phillip stepped forward to kiss her hand. "Don't' worry my love. You don't need to do this bit if you don't want to?" He whispered.
However, she shook her head. "I want to. It's okay." She breathed in to settle herself. "My father was a general, a war hero, who I miss to this day. He taught me that honour was the most important thing in life. Honour to my country, and honour to my family. Everything was about honour. However, Philip, when I first met you I felt another emotion. Love. I hid it, and denied it for so long. You said I saved you, but you also saved me, and as I grew to know you my feelings only grew more, though I could still never admit them. You quested to find Aurora and when we finally did find her, I saw you bring her back to life with True Love's kiss, that overwhelming love you had for her. I then realized I couldn't get in the way of such a wonderful thing. Yet, only days later, Phillip, you shielded both of us from the wraith. You sacrificed your life for us!" Aurora gulped at the memory.
"Aurora, Phillip's death drew us closer and I began to understand what he saw in you when my feelings grew for you too. I denied myself once again, feeling shameful. In the land of my birth, a woman loving another was simply unacceptable. So, I kept my feelings hidden, until a noble outlaw encouraged me to be brave and tell you. However, you then told me you were pregnant. I couldn't ruin the marriage of the two people I loved, so I ran. Two years ago, you found me and the revelation that you shared my feelings was the greatest day of my life! So today I am hiding nothing. I am deeply and utterly in love with you, my prince and my princess, and your wonderful son. You have now blessed me with a child too, and I hope and pray he or she arrives safely. So, Your Royal Highnesses, I vow and pledge my love and devotion to you both. Forever."
As the trio held hands and stared at each other, clearly deeply in love, everyone else seemed invisible. Until their thoughts were disturbed by Archie.
"Well, that was rather moving, wasn't it?" he said to a sea of silently nodding heads. "Let's proceed to the vows, shall we?"
Young Phillip Briar stepped to Archie's right, presenting three matching rings on a cushion. Henry Mills stepped silently to Archie's left, holding a small wooden box.
"Now, as Phillip and Aurora are already married, they will make their separate vows to Mulan, after which she will reply to them both. Aurora, would you like to start?" The auburn-haired beauty stepped in front of Mulan as Archie handed her a card to read.
"With the lawful consent of my husband Philip, I call upon these persons here present, to witness that I, Aurora Briar, take thee Fa Mulan, to be my lawfully wedded wife. To have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love, honour and cherish, till death do us part."
The princess smiled at her bride. Now Philip stepped forward to deliver his vow.
"With the lawful consent of my wife Aurora, I call upon these persons here present…" He repeated the same vow as Aurora.
Finally, Mulan repeated the vow to them both in turn. Archie took each of the rings, the smaller two with a tiny ribbon indicating which one was Mulan's and which Aurora's. The married couple removed their existing rings to make way for the replacements. Three rings, each with entwined colours of rose, yellow and white gold to represent the trio, or 'throuple' as they now called themselves. Aurora placed one on Mulan's ring finger, Mulan on Philip's, and finally, Philip on Aurora's. Henry stepped forward, Archie now drawing a long silk scarf, gold in appearance, with symbols. This intrigued the audience, who had never witnessed this in a wedding ceremony before. He asked for the throuple to step closer, and bring their three left-ringed hands together. They gave him a smile, as Archie slowly wound the soft material around the three conjoined hands. Then, picking up a small blue bottle, He loosened the cork before looking up at someone nobody had spotted on deck until now. Merlin.
"Where the fuck did HE come from?" Emma whispered.
"Shush!" Regina responded.
The Sorcerer gave him a brief nod, to proceed. The Cricket then slowly poured some sort of light oil gently over the part of the scarf binding the three hands. Regina could swear she saw a brief magical glow emanate from the material. It was over in moments before he again removed the scarf.
"I'm now delighted to say that, under the civil powers vested in me, I declare you three to be duly married. You may kiss your brides. And your groom."
Aurora sniggered as three faces leant in, a tight fit, as three pairs of lips momentarily came together in a chaste kiss. "Hmm. Let's do it our own way?" Philip whispered, as Aurora pressed her lips gently, but fully, against Mulan's, while Philip kissed his auburn wife's cheek. Mulan swiftly pulled back to now latch onto Phillip's lips, Aurora kissing her wife's cheek. Then Phillip finally kissed Aurora's lips, as Mulan planted one on her new husband's cheek. A process they immediately then reversed! It was a funny little display causing some chuckling from the audience. Emma sniggered, guessing how often they must have practiced that! It was too smooth, too quick, to have been unrehearsed.
Regina also thought it looked funny, but her mind was instead imagining herself, Emma and Robin doing something similar. Who would be harder to persuade?
Loud cheers, and applause, rang out across the Jolly and the surrounding quays and dock as the entire town seemed to celebrate the marriage. Aurora stepped up to the microphone, beaming with happiness.
"Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for coming today! My husband, my wife," the last words got another cheer, "…and I, together with Mrs. Ruby and Dorothy Lucas," another cheer, "Would like to invite you all to join us in a drink to celebrate this wonderful day?"
~oOo~
Everyone on board surged toward the happy couples to congratulate them.
Robin, seeing Honour getting nearer to being squished down below, moved closer to the couple before hoisting his little girl up into his arms, out of harm's way. She giggled, enjoying every second. Robin felt a tug on his arm as Roland appeared.
"Hi dad, nice suit? I knew you were Philip's Best Man, but I didn't know you were helping Dot too?"
"Yes, my boy. She asked me to stand in for her father, as she lost him when she was very young. She meant it as a surprise. But being Phil's Best Man, I have to make sure he didn't drink too much before the wedding, putting him in an awkward position, but still getting him to turn up for the big event on time. Now I have to make an even more embarrassing speech to everyone later, to show him up!"
"Oy, I heard that!" said a voice to his right, as Aurora kissed Robin's cheek. "Good job we only gave you two days' notice, isn't it?" she smiled.
"I still have the speech though!" He said with an evil look on his face as he pulled her into a hug. "Congratulations! I'm so pleased for you. You deserve her!"
The next few hours flew by. Rows of trestle tables and chairs had been arranged under marquees, vast plates of duck, venison and geese were brought to the tables. Wine flowed, and the party atmosphere was electric. At the central table, Ruby, Dorothy, Philip, Mulan and Aurora all sat in line as the speeches came.
David Nolan gave a heartfelt Best Man speech about Ruby, one of his and Snow's closest friends, and Dorothy. Emma looked proudly at her father, and the way he could always be relied on to tug the emotions for these kind of events. After he toasted the brides, Snow also said a few words extolling the importance of love and hope, which earned the usual roll of the eyes from her daughter, though Regina was strangely silent.
They were followed by Victor Whale, who surprised the Swan-Mills pair with an eloquence they hadn't expected. He also admitted he had a terrible crush on Ruby at one time, and even Dorothy after he met her. He pointed out just how perfectly suited they were to each other, and proposed the second toast. Next up were the toasts to Philip, Aurora and Mulan Briar. The pair had previously been asked what their preferred surname would be. Philip even offered for them to have a new, original name for them all. But Mulan had insisted. She wanted to be known by the same name as her husband, wife and new stepson. Princess Aurora's.
Robin made the Best Man speech. He spoke clearly and without notes. He talked of first encountering Mulan in the Enchanted Forest. Her saving his life with her ferocious swordsmanship. About her joining the Merry Men, "One of the finest and fairest 'men' I have ever known!" He spoke of their close friendship, forged in battle and struggle. He spoke of meeting Philip around the same time as he first encountered Baelfire, or Neal Cassidy in this world. "A truly brave and ingenious man who went on to save the people of Storybrooke. You are still sorely missed, my friend!" He raised his glass as he said it and at least a hundred raised theirs to join him, including all the bridal party. That brought a slow tear from Emma and, at a far table, Rumple, who sat quietly with his son. Mulan and Philip nodded in remembrance to their fallen friend. Robin then turned to more recent events and his friendship with Philip as they tore across realms in support of women "far more bloody brave and foolhardy than us, eh Phil?" That earned chuckles from the crowd. He made some risqué jokes. Nothing too seedy or rude, as children were present. Just gently pointing out that those two women he married would be the death of him!
"And as I finish, as you're now also the new Mayor of Storybrooke, can I offer you some advice, Phil? Always remind them who wears the trousers in your house!"
Some of the women stiffened at the supposed sexist remark, until he followed it with, "So for heaven's sake, do as you're told, when they put them on! Ladies and gentlemen, I propose a toast. Mulan, Aurora and Philip Briar! The brides and groom!"
Everyone raised their glasses and clinked them shouting, "THE BRIDES AND GROOM!" before applauding the speech and cheering the happy throuple.
Emma and Regina had both been watching, neither taking their eyes off Robin when he spoke. Regina kept thinking about whether she could ever have the sort of relationship that the Princess now enjoyed with her husband and new wife. Regina loved Emma and Robin. Loved them both, and she couldn't deny it. She knew she was being selfish. But still. Could she find a way to make Emma fall in love with Robin? There were some good signs. Judging by the blonde's outburst during her dream two nights ago, she had clearly felt something for him. And what about Robin? Could he overcome his honour-fixation to find Emma more than just attractive?
The pair stared silently at the top table, particularly at Robin, who was now talking animatedly to Aurora and Philip. Henry sat opposite, watching his mothers' expressions and thinking they seemed to be in some kind of weird trance. Robin had been joined by a tall, willowy blonde, who was now standing close behind him, touching his shoulder to attract his attention. Henry saw the reaction on both his mothers' faces.
"Who's she?" Emma growled, clearly irritated, her eyes never leaving them as Robin smiled, stood and turned, to give the extremely beautiful woman a hug. His other mother answered, loud enough for Henry to hear. "That's Celia. Merlin's eldest. I met her last night."
"Another one? How many does he have, for god's sake? One's got her teeth into Killian, and this one…" she didn't finish the sentence. Henry frowned. They're jealous? Why?
"Why would you two care?" His mothers' turned together to look at him, both sporting frowns, which he found quite funny. "You did move on from them, after all. Aren't they allowed to move on from you too?" He realised he'd probably phrased it badly the moment the words left his mouth. Regina looked hurt, Emma annoyed, and Violet embarrassed, having given him a slap on the arm. "Henry!"
"How could you say that? To me of all people?" Regina looked genuinely wounded by the comment.
"That's a horrible thing to say!" Emma added.
"They died, Henry! How could you say that?" added Violet.
Henry knew he'd spoken without thinking. "Sorry. That came out wrong! Anyway, that's Celia, or Cee. I was talking to her last night. She's Merlin's eldest. He has three daughters and a son, who's here too. Cee's great! She a lawyer, and runs an IT business that makes war gaming software in England And, before you ask, she's happily married with two children. She's not after Robin, but she likes him. One of her boys is Disney-obsessed, so she's been taking selfies with him, for them last night. She also wants to set up a video call for them to meet him. You should go talk to her."
Regina grimaced, realizing her son had guessed what she'd been thinking.
"However," he continued, "Killian is going out with Rosie. She sails with him to Arendelle tomorrow. Tink's going too. Robin's giving them a farewell party at the Locksley later tonight. I don't suppose either of you will be going?"
"Definitely not." Regina avoided Emma's stare. "I don't think your mum and I want be wanting to spend any time with Guyliner. I've had all the time I need with that rum-soaked pirate."
"Guyliner? Pirate? Jeez, still with the stupid names?" Henry's voice rose slightly. "After everything he's done and been through?" He felt his anger start to build again, until, "No, no, I'm not doing this! Not again. I'm out of here!" He stood, turning to walk away.
"Henry, stop?" Violet called. But he didn't turn back, just stormed off to another corner of the room, knowing if he stayed sitting there, he would probably say something yet again, that he'd regret.
"What's that all about?" Regina grumbled. "I only-" She stopped when she saw Emma's face. The blonde looked upset as something caught her eye. Following her gaze, she spotted the pirate himself sitting at a table some distance away. Next to him sat Merlin's brunette daughter, now leaning across and kissing him on the lips, in full view of Merlin's younger daughter, son and the great Sorcerer himself. The Saviour's heart sank, looking at the pair.
"Emma? Do you want to leave?" Regina whispered, touching her arm to distract her.
"No, it's okay..." the blonde turned to look at her wife. "Ruby said they've got presents for Honny and Rolly, so let's stay a little longer. It's just odd, you know? Seeing him with someone else? Henry's right. I moved on, so it's only to be expected he would."
"I understand. Whenever I see any other women, apart from you, beside Robin I kind of freeze. It's stupid of me. We've moved on but, if we're honest, we can't control our feelings, can we?"
Emma nodded, collecting the brunette's hand. "True. But I don't regret marrying you. Not for one second!"
Regina leant over, pressing her lips against her wife's.
~oOo~