Hey hey all. Okay, so this chapter is coming up really fast because when I left you all with a cliffhanger last time…I was already halfway done with this and I didn't want you to wait. So thanks so much for not killing me! :3 Hope you guys enjoy this one.
Warning: The next chapter might take me some time...I've got school starting back up for Winter semester and a full working schedule. But do not fear my friend! It shall come. I've written down a full list of 'worlds' they must adventure through. Midsummer from Shakespeare is only the beginning.
Shout outs!
Nouqueret: Of course cliffhangers, but alas I agree they are not pleasant to find at the end of a chapter.
: I updated really soon. lol. Sooner than I even anticipated. Just couldn't wait I guess. Me and my silliness.
jlm13: I'm glad you like it so far, and I really appreciate the comments.
And to all you other readers, thank you and enjoy.
~Artimas
Chapter 6: When darkness falls
The world seemed to rush past her, her heart racing. So far she had stayed on the path, only slipping once or twice. The fear of falling left the moment the wolf had appeared. Hook was behind her, hand pushing her forward as they ran. The rest of the pack descending, agile, and used to the trek. They however were not immune to swords.
"When we get there. Just climb Emma."
She didn't respond, only nodded. The sweat poured from her ever pore, hair clinging to her forehead. Her sword was ready. Snow slipped ahead of them causing a misty white cloud. A shadow emerging from the other side. Raising the sword, and not allowing them to fall behind she charged forward. Claws and teeth her greeting. The wolf fell, fresh blood coating her blade. One down, she thought.
Behind her hook was dealing with another beast, cutting into it with more grace. Hearing a whimper of pain she knew he had won. They continued. The drop was still steep, and jumping still not an option. A silhouette emerged above her, and she glanced up just in time to see another attempt to kill. This time she wasn't quick enough, its body pushing into her and skidding her to the edge.
"Killian!" She shouted as her arms tried to balance her. "Shit." The creatures paws thudded on the ground as he turned and swerved, then rounding on her and biting into her shoulder painfully. Blood drenching its muzzle. The animal had a luminous quality about him. He looked right into her face, amber eyes challenging her. She could not maintain the gaze, and looked instead at Killian. Then it let go, teeth pulling out of flesh and the pain numbing her mind and causing her to sink. Trying not to fall she grabbed the slippery edge. The beast did not stop, turning on Hook while she struggled to hold on. It didn't stand a chance against Hooks rage, blood spilling from its chest. A rendering howl the churned Emma's insides could be heard.
"Emma!" She felt the metal of Killian's hand snag at her clothes, catching her by a button loop.
"Do you need saving malady?" His voice was light-hearted, but his eyes filled with fright.
She reached out to grab his upper arm, a flash of grey catching her eye. He wouldn't be able to throw off another attack holding her. It was now or never.
"Emma…don't you dare." He saw the wild look in her eyes, the small soft smirk splayed across her lips.
"See you later…Killian." With a wink she let go.
It wasn't like they say, your life doesn't flash before you. The only thing you see, is death. Her mind raced, she would not die here! She couldn't die here! She reached out, trying to stop herself. Her body falling down the cliff side like a rag doll.
"Guess you will be needing a little help, dearie."
The necklace grew hot, and she felt arms under hers. As though someone was guiding her actions. All at once her hands began to violently make shapes and symbols, words pushed themselves out. The world around her slowed, and the attack on her body lessened. With a sickening thud, she was sprawled out on the ground, alive.
The taste of metal filled her mouth, and her ankle and arms ached. Eyes watering she tried to look around her, but the world was a swirl of colors. Daring to move she extended her hands as far as possible finding the sword. She couldn't reach the hilt, and grabbed the blade instead dragging it back to her. Exhausted, she couldn't muster up the energy to lift it. Maybe this was it. Nice try Rumple, she chuckled.
"Emma!" His heart had never felt so clenched. The snow and dust enveloping her as she went. The look on her face was enough to break him. Maybe she lived? His stomach knotted, as much as he liked to believe that no one would survive that fall. A snap of teeth behind him drove him into a homicidal rage. He would kill them for what they had done. All of them! A claw ran down his arm, but he didn't care. He would make them pay. As the wolf fell, he ran. He would not let them defile her body.
Ready for any attack he didn't stop. The sound of metal against claw echoing through the valley. Although his arms ached, and his legs felt heavy he continued. He had to get to Swan! Finally he was close enough to the ground to jump, leaping off and tumbling to the ground.
Scanning the gorge he found her, a wolf teetering above ready to spring. Anger flooded him as he grabbed the gun from his belt. The crack of gunfire filling the air. The bullet was too late. A scream caught in his throat. This was not how it was supposed to go! She was the savior! She was beautiful, and filled with wit and life. He didn't want to do this without her! She was alive…her hand tightened around the swords hilt.
"EMMA!" The blonde beauty rolled, the wolf falling where moments ago she had been prone. She was on her feet, but wobbly. Killian took his chance, aiming the gun once more. He shot hitting the animal in the shoulder, but it was not giving up that easily. It swiped out at her, and she was ready cutting out at its paw. The wolf still fought, but the weight of his wounds slowed him down. He yelped with every movement, his tongue lolling out the side of his mouth. The beast charged her, she curled her fingers tighter around the swords hilt, without hesitating she ducked down, and thrust the saber into the underbelly of the wolf, blood and innards poured from the wound. Jerking the sword free and backing towards Killian. She stumbled, tripping over her own feet.
In no time at all his arms were around her, steadying her trembling form. "Emma?"
"Hey…" She grimaced.
"Hey back." His voice was heavy with emotion, "Were not out of this yet Lass."
Pulling back he assessed the damage, her hands were raw, and her jaw was turning a sickening purple. A large cut ran down the side of her face and blood tainted her sunshine hair, but she was alive. He smiled, and for a brief moment she returned it. Without thinking he lifted her face to his and kissed her. It was short, but meaningful and the wide-eyed expression she wore made his heart flip. How the hell was she still alive?
"That love, was for not dying." A small 'o formed on her lips.
With a howl they were back on the battlefield, hunters verse prey. "That's right…wolves, climbing, flower." she listed off with a smirk.
They were on the move, both swords at the ready, back to back. The wolves circling them, to many to count.
"I'll fight love…you get a head start." She nodded, not liking the plan but understanding. She could feel hornets shoot up through her leg, but pushed through hobbling her way to the spire. Hook was circling her like some heroic prince, swiping out at any wolf daring to come close.
"Hurry Swan…They're forgetting the bite of our blades." Quickly she forced her arms to do most of the work as she got to the first ledge. Not far enough away from the wolves, but it was a good start.
"Come on Hook." He reached one hand blindly behind him till he felt the landing. Now this was going to be tricky.
"Swan. Catch." She caught the firearm with ease, sheathing the sword and readying it with a keen eye.
"I got you."
Trusting her, he turned his back to climb. Two wolves jumping from the pack to feast. Shots fired and her aim true. The creatures falling helplessly to the ground. When Hook was level with her, they took no time gloating. They climbed. As far as they could before looking back. The wolves had not given up, waiting patiently for one of them to slip.
Her body ached, but the fear of dying and her adrenaline won out. She pushed herself, matching Hooks speed. Emma grunted as her numb arm finally reached the top, slamming it down in a victorious fashion. A smile lit up her face, and she shouted in triumph. They had made it!
Once they had rolled over, they didn't move. For a second Emma was reminded of her first night on the ship. I would die for some Rum, and as if on cue a flask appeared above her.
"I think…a drink is in order." She smiled, slowly sitting up to accept.
"To Hook." She held up the container, and took a long drink before handing it back.
"You make it sound like I died." Although he was touched he still scoffed. Lifting it as she did, "To Miss Swan."
She didn't dare look down the impossible climb, instead she pulled her legs off the ledge and examined her ankle. Placing the flask away, he scanned the area. It was small, not any bigger than his cabin on the ship.
"Will you look at that." Emma turned, and gasped. In the center of this little island was a beam of light, and where it landed a golden flower grew. It shimmered and glowed in the most eye-catching way. Its petals the shape of a trumpet, and its stem a dark purple. The best part was the ground had no snow here, and warmth seemed to radiate all around. It reminded her of Summer.
"The feeling of love." Hook smirked, "Not that either of us would know."
She felt the stab, he hadn't meant for it to be rude, but she couldn't help but feel wounded. She had known love, but it was a long time ago. Nodding to herself she could only imagine how long it had been for him. He was 300 years old.
"I was in love once." She whispered. "Damn it. I think it's sprained."
"Its better than dead." His eyes drifted to the ground, "I was once to lass. Long gone, taken from me at its prime."
"Rumple?"
"Aye." The conversation topic was closed as he sat down next to her putting her foot into his lap. "I thought you were dead Emma."
"Me too."
"What happened?" He eyed her curiously while tugging off her shoe, and reaching into his satchel.
"I think magic happened. I mean I don't know how, but maybe someone saved me?"
He almost laughed, "You mean to say. You think you saved yourself with magic."
"No…" She looked up to see him smiling. "Yes? Oh my god. But…"
"I actually had a bet with Mr. Smee on how long it would take you to figure it out. That bugger owes me gold."
"How did you know?"
"I thought it a few time, just couldn't be sure. When Cora tried to take your heart." His face darkened at the thought. "You pushed her off. Well actually you just fought her off. It was magic." He shrugged. "Then the rifts. You could see them. Only mages can do that. Then there was that barrier spell…"
He leaned in close. "Now we just have to teach you how to use it" winking he tilted back, "but in the meantime." his eyes took on a softer nature as he placed his hands firmly on her foot. "The old-fashioned way will have to work."
Her stomach flipped at the feeling. His hand slowly massaging her. It felt good, and when he stopped she almost protested. He was digging in the bag, pulling out medical supplies. Slowly he wrapped up her ankle, watching her from hooded eyes as he delicately ran his hand along her exposed skin. Once done, he moved beside her, his hands turning her head. A blush crept up her neck, as he tended to the gash. She could only think of the kiss they had briefly shared. Why had he done that? She sighed.
"Are you feeling okay love?"
His eyes bore into hers, and she couldn't help her heart from racing.
"Yep."
He pulled away, a small smirk playing at the corner of his mouth. "You take first watch. I don't know about you, but I'm exhausted. The flower won't go anywhere, and we have to wait out the wolves." Pulling the backpack under his head he laid down closer to the middle of the island. "Just don't roll me off in my sleep."
"Aye, Captain." A salute to follow his order.
"Swan, do me a favor…shut up." With that he rolled to his side giving her his back. If she kept up that, he might just have to show her what a Captain could do. The smile still played on his lips as he thought on it. He didn't know when, but the lass had gone from prisoner to interesting. Not love, but an interest. He very well couldn't leave her behind now.
Emma turned back towards the edge, feet dangling over. What the hell was going on? Why had Killian kissed her, again. She rolled her eyes. He was making a habit out of it. And had she used magic? If she did…could she do it again? Would she want to do it again?
The power that surged through her was intoxicating, dangerous yet beautiful. Now she could see the draw to it. The reason so many turned it into an evil trick.
Glancing back at his sleeping form she tried. Closing her eyes and focusing. If she could just patch up her ankle she would be happy. The thought just seemed ridiculous. Maybe if she moved her hands it would trigger something. For hours she sat there trying her hardest, the sun setting across the horizon. Another day gone, only three left.
"Come on Emma." She placed a hand on her ankle.
"How did you do it last time?" Jumping she turned towards him.
"You need a bell."
"Excuse me?"
"Nothing. I don't remember." She lied. He didn't call her out, frustration clear in her tone. "It was strange." Scooting back off the ledge she sat Indian style placing her hands out in front of her, and making symbols with them. "I did this." After a minute, nothing happened, but she didn't stop. Her hands moving faster than before. Hook glanced at her face expecting anger, but it was empty of emotion, her eyes dilating till they became black.
"Emma?" Strange words tore from her throat, and gold shimmered at her fingertips. The bruise along her check was the first to fade, glancing down at her ankle he noticed the swelling lessen. She was doing it, but it felt strange. It looked as if she wasn't there at all. Suddenly she stopped, gasping for air and eyes blinking back to green.
"Hook?" Lifting her hands in front of her face to examined them. "I…I did it?" There was that tone again, disbelief.
"Yes you did." He leaned into her, one arm wrapping around her back, while the other turned her chin.
"Hook…I can't."
"For once in your life Swan. Shut it." Her eyes fluttered closed, as he bent forward. All at once a horn sounded in the distance. Loud and menacing. Springing apart they glanced around. The wolves barked back in response, then one at a time they left.
"I think that's our chance. Damn." A small smile played on his lips, "Could you magic us down love?"
"and kill us in the attempt?"
"Good point. A climb it is then."
"We should get back to the cabin. Sleep till late, its best to attempt the castle at night."
"By sleep you mean…" His eye brow waggled,
"I mean sleep Hook. You on the floor, me in the bed." Her normal attitude was back, and in full swing as she eyed him disapprovingly.
"Fine…damn prude."
"What did you just say?"
"Nothing love"
He waved a hand dismissing her and his comment before walking to the flower and plucking it. In its place a black rose began to bloom.
"Well that's comforting."
He shoved the flower into Emma's outstretched hands, and grabbed the bag.
"Ready Swan?"
"Ready." She had pocketed it before hang her body off the ledge. Slowly they began the climb, not speaking just concentrating. A few times one of them would slip, catching them selves before plummeting.
"Much nicer in the dark. Don't you think love." She didn't reply only grumbled. Finally with both feet on the ground they relaxed. The horn sounded again, this time a bit closer.
Quickly they made their way back to the forests edge. Emma following Hooks footprints carefully as he maneuvered silently through the trees. They were almost at the border. Then without warning Hook grabbed her by the shoulders and swung her into a bush. His body pushing her down under him, sheltering her from whatever lurked near them. The sound of a horse could be heard seconds away.
"Whatever magic user skulks in these woods, come forth." It was a robust voice, strong and powerful. Emma couldn't help but picture a king. Hook signaled for her to stay quiet, slipping the bag off his shoulders, before standing up arms in the air.
"Alas, you have caught me." He took long strides towards the speaker. "Take me to your leader."
"Guards seize him." With that a few men wearing crisp white uniforms sprung. Hook didn't struggle, just allowed them to drag him off. Emma peered out from her cover. The man didn't leave, only maneuvered the steed farther in, it's hooves stopping inches from her nose. Holding her breath she waited as he scanned about.
"I ask dear spirits, if this magician has disturbed you, rest now. He will be dealt with." The voice was less formal this time, more heart behind each words. Before she could get a full look at the man they were trotting off, catching up to the others. Standing up shakily she watched after them. Hook had been placed into a stagecoach, and whisked away.
Killians voice echoed in her mind, "You must always keep going." Not this time buddy. Grabbing the bag, and un-sheathing her sword she followed them. Her trek was slower than the Feys, and she hoped they didn't just kill the pirate.
All through the night she marched, and by mid-day she knew her body wouldn't be able to continue. Finding a small nook in a tree she rested. If she slept now, then by nightfall she hoped she would be at the castle. In the dead of night she had a better chance of sneaking in.
Opening the bag she found Jefferson's book. God how she wished he was here with them, he may be crazy, but this world seemed to be too. Leafing through it, she found herself unable to focus. Her stomach growled, how long had it been since she had eaten? Pulling out a wrinkled apple and stale bread she frowned. Better than nothing. After her 'meal' she snuggled up to the bag and book and attempted sleep. Hoping nothing would find her. When she finally stirred, the world was darkening.
"Time to go…" She sighed as she chewed on a small piece of jerky. Stuffing all the contents back in the bag. "Don't die yet Killian."
The gates were wide open, but guarded by soldiers. Others stood watch in silhouettes on the surrounding walls, archers among them. Torches illuminating the path. Hiding in the shadows of a tree she watched. She would have to move fast, there patterns of movement almost memorized, but beyond the entrance anything could happen. Then, it was another climb, last tower on the right. She had thought of the dungeons, but it left a nasty feeling in the pit of her stomach. Slowly she dropped the bag and pulled out two small daggers. These would have to do. A pair of sentries marched back and forth behind the gate, the two out front switching off every twenty minutes. When they traded, a few moments lingered where no one was watching. Just enough time to run through and hide. She swallowed. Hopefully.
She counted out the seconds, and finally when the guards started to leave, and march away she ran. Darting out from the woods, and jumping from shadow to shadow, silently. She ducked into the nearest corner, just as the new soldiers arrived. Her breathing ragged. Not daring to wait around, she followed the wall back till she came to a building. The door was at her back, and she didn't dare open it. Ducking instead behind a border bush.
She heard talking. A window just above her head, and blanched when she realized it was a guardhouse. They were talking about Hook.
"Just shows up, out of no where. You know how the king feels about magic users. They always want more out of us. Ever since puck." One of the men grumbled.
"If he can fix the queen though…then he will be gifted handsomely." A rougher voice replied.
"but if he can't. keeee-" She could picture the motion of a knife crossing Killian's neck as the guards laughed.
"You should have seen the look on his face when we told him we found the ship. Poor sap, almost died. Said he would do anything for the king, as long as he left them alone." The man chuckled darkly. "Got half the guards aiming fire bows at it right now." She growled, how dare they.
She heard wood scrapping, as they got up. The door she was leaning against moments before opening. The two soldiers passing in front of her. One stretched while the other looked up at the night sky.
"Time to let the wolves out. King thought it odd a whole ship of people, and only one man goes out? Pretty sure he wasn't alone."
"I'll keep my eyes peeled."
She almost laughed, she was right there. Right under their noses. Maybe she would need a bell when this was over. No time to count an early victory, she chastised. Not until this was over. The guards said their goodbyes and walked off.
For once she wished she had grown up in a castle, or even read more books on them. Glancing around and taking in the new territory. What looked like a garden was to her left, trees and bushes lining its path. A small latched gate holding the entrance, a short wall divided it into two layers. One had to be for servants, while the other for royals.
Across from her she could see the main entrance. Tall doors not only held it shut, but the watch there was heavy. Any farther run would just be suicide. Well through the gardens it was. Getting ready she eyed the walls around her, watching as the guards turned to talk to one another. After a few quick breaths, she ran. Making it to the wall she swung her legs over and gracefully landed on the other side. The drop was longer than she anticipated, but her quick mind assessed to the impact. No one had seen her.
She was in a small walkway. Not tempting fate she continued, one foot silently in front of the other, until she came to a sharp corner. A voice from above stopped her heart.
"I want everywhere scouted, no stone unturned!" The heavy stomps, alerting her to a group of them. "Someone down in the wind path." She was pretty sure that the meant her current hiding spot. Sure enough metal on cobble could be heard just around the bend.
One set of footprints. Okay this would have to be quick. She turned the blades in her hands, giving weight to them. Before the guard could even yelp, she had struck him hard. His jaw cracking under her fist. Instantly she caught him, preventing the noise of his armor from echoing.
Okay…now where the hell did she hide him? Didn't think that one through did you Emma? She leaned around the corner. A small stone set of stairs leading up into the garden. Perfect. Taking him by the arm she pulled, dragging him to the darkest and nearest bush. That would work for now, but by daylight they would find him. She had to move quickly, before the castle was searched from top to bottom. A small hallway led from the garden to an inner courtyard.
She found it eerie as she crept. This path had no hiding spots, and her heart pounded at the prospect of meeting someone. How many guards could she take down before they found her? Emerging from the hallway she found herself staring at her biggest obstacle. A grand ball room. Its large windows spilling light into her path.
At any other moment she would have found this beautiful. The golden hues softly illuminating the ground, the twinkle of candles on chandeliers. The floors polished so well they reflected a mural on the ceiling. But now she cringed. Anyone would see her dash through it. God damn it.
If only the lights were out. If only the candles didn't burn. She saw it dim. The light slowly fading. She looked down to see her hands moving of their own accord.
Not risking losing the chance she bolted past the open panes. Hopeful no one saw her diving into a shed on the other side. Holding back a shout as she crashed into a workbench. Although the noise of her entrance wasn't loud, it would alert anyone near. Her body sagged against the wall, and she closed her eyes briefly taking a breath. No shouts, no yells, nothing. Some star somewhere must have shone down on her.
Shuffling around the open door she scanned the new turf. A large fountain in the center, statues all around, and a cobblestone path leading toward the towers. No guards crossed before her, and no talk could be heard. Becoming braver she stepped out.
Dark windows watched her as she made her way forward, the hairs on the back of her neck kept expecting someone to jump out. Slinking her way about, she hid behind each statue. Still no one. It seemed to good to be true as she approached the correct tower. Slipping to its back side, she finally let out the breath she had held. As soon as it was released from her lungs she heard another group of soldiers march by.
"No ones getting in here tonight sir." One of the men barked. The others added their agreements before continuing on. She had to move fast, if they heard her climbing then they would just shoot her down.
Turning the daggers out she stabbed one in between the stone. This was going to be one hell of climb. She made her way slowly, looking out behind her momentarily, the sight was breath taking. All the land of the fey for her to witness.
Shaking the thought from her mind she continued. Her hand finally catching the edge of a window sill. The ledge was thick enough for her to pull herself up, but its interior dark. Searching the window she looked for a clasp, a knob anything. After a few disgruntled moments she realized she would have to literally bust in.
"Breaking into a castle. This one can go off the check list." Joking to herself to ease the tension. Now how did they do this in the movies. Wrapping the coats tails around her hand she smashed in. A small hole large enough for her to slip her wrist through. Finally she found the clasp, the window swinging open with ease.
Stepping down blindly she found herself on a desk. Papers sticking to the bottom of her wet boots. The shapes of furniture soon folded into sight, the room she decided was some sort of bedroom. How she wished to curl up on the feather bed and sleep. Her body was swore, but the warmth of indoors was bring feeling back to her.
Skulking to the door she continued blindly. A candle would give her away, and she couldn't risk it. Thankfully the door was soundless as it opened, an ominous hallway leading out. No lights or torches lit the way, and little by little she became more relaxed.
Thinking back to the map Puck had 'gifted' her she frowned. She couldn't go down, the dungeons entrance was on the far side of the throne room. Most likely one of the most used paths, but then again Hook might be there. Then there was the Queens chamber. Straight ahead, up a flight of stairs and to the right. Why the hell had she climbed this tower and not the other one? Maybe the Imp wanted her to fail.
Shaking the dreaded thought from her mind she continued. If she just stood still someone was going to find her, and she couldn't have that. She would take care of the Queen, steal the stones, and then move on to find Hook. Maybe if she could just fix this whole mess it would turn back to summer and everyone would be less homicidal. Yeah right.
She met no one on her trek, her feet leading her to an elegantly carved door. This had to be her chambers. No guards to protect it, she thought. It felt like a trap, to easy, but then again she had just slipped through the most dangerous part. Hoping she was fast asleep she entered. The light sound of soft snores reaching her ears. Tip toeing up to the bedside, she pulled out the flower crushing in her palm.
Taking a deep breath she slipped behind the drapes. The woman before her was the most beautiful Emma had ever seen. Dark black hair cascading around her head, her face a perfect oval. Sharp cheekbones, dark long eyelashes, and pure red lips. She wore golden silk, and even a necklace of diamonds. Gently she sprinkled the flower, watching as the Queens brow scrunched in displeasure.
It was time to leave, but just as she pushed back the drapes something caught her eyes. The moons light was shining in from a window across. It caught the necklace in such a light that it almost seemed to be glowing. Moonstone. But how the hell was she going to get them off?
She froze to the sound of footsteps. They were coming. Had they found her? Slipping from the canopy bed she glanced around for an escape. Light now flooding through the bottom of the chamber door. Closet she almost yelled, before jumping inside. Crouching down she watched through a slit. A few guards entered, lanterns setting the scene. Following was the king. His robes matched the woman's, golden silk layered with furs and pelts. The crown upon his head made to look like ivy and flowers. His face was handsome, and round. Emma couldn't help but be dazzled by him.
"Now Wizard, you said your magic is the best in your lands." He made no effort to whisper, gesturing towards the doors archway. Killian sauntered in, an almost cocky attitude about him. She rolled her eyes. Even in death's door he couldn't help but act as a pirate.
"Of course. Although you see, I don't know if an audience is the best company for such a thing." He scanned the room, a small frown gracing his face as he eyed the guards.
"Or maybe it is not you who can cast the magic? Maybe it was your comrade? The wolves did speak of another." The king sized him up.
"Ah there's your problem. Taking your advice from wolves. Tricky little things they can be. Yes I did have an apprentice you would say, but long gone is that one." Hooks voice was casual, as if he was talking to an old friend. She smiled, so he thought she had left him.
"My darling. Is there a problem?" Emma heard the sound of fabric, the Queen had awoken. Her voice sounded musical, as soft as a feather plucked from a baby bird.
"My dear. This man claims he can help your ailments." The king reached a hand out, she accepted it allowing him to guide her. Her black hair began to change, blond streaks falling through it, till a golden cascade fell behind her. The king looked shocked, disbelief of Killian turning to joy.
"I told you my magic was legendary. Now, if you would excuse me I have a ship to run." As if he knew the results he turned, and Emma couldn't help but smile. She had done it.
"But my sweet. Why would you leave me? We have just been brought together, and our love is strong." The woman dropped the Kings hand, and wrapped her hands around Hooks back, pushing her face into his shoulder.
Emma swallowed. Oh god. She tried to remember back, had the fey said it had to be the king she saw first? No.
The kings face rose in color, slanted eyes darting from his wife to his 'savior'.
"What trickery is this?" He spat. Grabbing his wife by her shoulders and yanking her back. "What curses have you laid, warlock!?"
"I'm sorry your lordship, maybe I made a mistake in my spell." As he spun back around she was sure his eyes caught hers. "But if you would let me try again." He sank into a kneeling position.
Pulling a dagger from his side, the king approached. The Queen shrieking in horror. It worked, staying his hand inches from the back of Killian's neck.
"If my wife does not love me by morning mage, you shall wish you had never set foot in my kingdom again."
"I understand your majesty."
"Take him to the dungeons. Keep him under lock and key." He paused, taking a step forward. "and if we see your apprentice. We shall hang his body from the tallest tower for all the realm to see." Killian paled, and with that was dragged away.
"My lady." The King bowed and with one heart-felt glance left.
For a moment Emma did nothing, hands trembling. How the hell was she going to fix this? Glancing back out she saw the fair maiden fall to her knees, sobs taking over her body.
"How do I get there?" Emma stepped out from her hiding space, frightening the beautiful woman speechless. "If you really love Killian. Then help me get him out of here. If you do not. He will die."
"You're the apprentice?" Her eyes turned cold the tears immediately stopping. "You're a woman."
"I'm not the apprentice…your highness."
"Then you're the sorceress." She wasn't asking she was stating a fact. Emma nearly nodded.
"Please your highness" kneeling she continued, "I need him."
The woman took her time, flicking her eyes between the door and her. She was judging her, and at that moment Emma realized why this woman was so feared. Obvious power unfolding around her. The very air they breathed turning to ice.
"Do you love him?" Glancing up, she saw the accusation.
"No."
"Does he love you?"
"No." Her blue eyes stared her down, looked into her very soul and finally satisfied she nodded.
"Then I will help. For my love I will help." It was unsaid, but the words not for you, crossed Emma's mind.
OMG the Queen is in love with Killian! How will emma reach him before his demise! and where the hell are they going to get those stones? All shall be discovered, next time on "The road least traveled!" (I felt like this section should be a reflection of old Dragon Ball Z commercials.) Don't forget Read and Review, if you do I'll work harder :3
