A/N: First, I would like to say thank you to all returning readers and the new ones for finding this CT verse. As you can expect, there will be a lot of drama about to unfold and I know you're all dying for it. ;) Secondly, I have some things coming up pretty soon so I probably won't be able to update next Sunday as planned, but this extra long chapter should be enough to tie you over. *chuckles evilly* Just wait.
Part 3
The shrill ringing of the phone woke the couple up. Belle rolled to her side to see what time it was, rubbing her eyes when she saw it was only 5:30am. The phone continued its annoying blaring until Rumple reached over and picked up the receiver.
"Who is this?" he barked, extremely irritated that his slumber was disturbed.
"Good morning Mr. Gold! This is your morning wake-up call as you requested!" chirped the little too cheery concierge.
"Wake-up call?" he repeated incredulously. "I didn't ask for such a thing."
"You didn't?" the girl's cheerfulness dropped. "I have it right here to call room 410 at 5:30 at your wife's request."
"My-?" He looked over to Belle who seemed just as confused as he until he realized who his wife they were referring to. "Swann," he growled, a foul mouth cursed word. Then a slow smirk appeared. Well… if the Savior wanted to play like that. "Actually, I'm afraid it was a room mistake. You see… I believe it was the adjoining room—room 4…"
Before he could finish saying it, Belle swiped the phone from him. "Hello? No, no. You don't need to call the other room. Yes it was this one. Thank you very much and sorry for the confusion." She hung up and gave Rumple a glare.
"What?" he said innocently.
"Need I remind you that the next room has not only Emma sleeping, but the children as well?" she told him. "Don't punish the kids because of her."
"But she—"
"I know Rumple. Believe me I am not exactly thrilled she did it either. But now's not the time for payback so you can wipe that scheming look off your face. You can get her when we're safely back at home and when she'll least expect it. I have no doubt she thinks you're going to do something here."
"Why Belle," Rumple said with surprise. "I didn't think you were in favor of such vengeance."
"She bloody woke me up too. And I was having a very nice dream." She pouted as he inched closer and kissed it away.
"Oh? About what?" he asked.
Fighting back a smile, Belle gave him a quick kiss and got off the bed. "It was nice. That's all. Besides, we might as well get ready so when Lily-Rose wakes up we can get her dressed. We have a long day ahead of us."
He sighed. She was right but… "C'mon Belle. Tell me what you dreamt. Perhaps I can make it worth your while since you were considerate the night before."
He could hear her giggling in the bathroom. "Now Rumple, you know a girl doesn't dream and tell."
That had him grumbling underneath his breath. If the Savior didn't kill him, then Belle certainly could do the job.
They went ahead and showered and got dressed just in time as the adjoining door opened and Lily-Rose came in. Emma was behind her, biting her lips to keep from giving Mr. Gold a smug look.
"Morning Mommy and Papa!" the little girl said as Belle picked her up.
"Did you have a nice night?" Belle asked her as she bobbed her head eagerly.
"Yup! I was really good!"
"I figured she could spend the night with us," Emma explained. "After all, I know how much Mr. Gold wants to start the search."
"Yes. It was mighty considerate of you Ms. Swann," Rumple said sweetly. "I don't know how Belle and I can ever repay you for such kindness."
"Think nothing of it. The twerp was a joy to have." She kept a straight face as she coolly looked at the imp as if she had won this round. "I thought I would return the favor since you so kindly had our clothes unpacked." Shifting her gaze to Belle, she said, "Once the kids are ready—meet you downstairs for breakfast? I heard the restaurant here has some good food."
"All right. We can discuss the plans then to find Bae."
Emma nodded and returned to her room to finish getting ready.
"Why did it have to be her when I planned the Curse?" Rumple muttered.
"I don't know, darling. Maybe this is Fate's way of bringing you down a notch for all your tricks," his fiancée replied smartly. "She has your number all right."
"Ha ha. When we're back at home and I have my powers… we'll see who's cleverer."
Belle sighed. She had a funny feeling that this won't ever end between them.
xxXXxx
Avonlea
What Belle had in mind required some research and she found what she was looking for in her books.
Despite the fact that it was very evident that Lily-Rose possessed magic, Belle wanted to make sure that Rumple was indeed the father. After his letter, she needed the confirmation. So off in the library she went to find if there was a way to tell if a magical being could reveal a person's paternity.
Her findings didn't reveal much, but she did find references to a powerful being called Reul Ghorm. From what Belle could gather, it was possible that this Reul Ghorm could provide the answers that she sought but she only came to those pure in spirit and those in desperate need of help.
Belle knew she had a good heart, but whether or not her soul was pure was another story. She did have an affair while she was married and didn't know if that would keep Reul Ghorm from appearing to her. Well, if she wouldn't come to her… maybe she would for Lily-Rose. It was worth trying and Belle was desperate. Thankfully, Hannah's warnings did make her extra aware of what was being whispered in the halls, and she couldn't believe her people were actually in fear of the little princess. As much as she wanted to go to Gaston and tell him of this, she knew it also meant exposing her secret. And she couldn't risk it. Not now. Not when Lily-Rose's safety was possibly at stake.
She waited until one late night to make her case to Reul Ghorm. It took some careful planning and trickery to avoid suspicions that the Queen and princess were gone. Belle left Hannah in charge to make the illusion real since her job was to stay close to her mistresses. Despite her protests, Belle insisted it was safer for Hannah to remain and guard over the straw bodies that were meant to be the sleeping infant and matriarch.
At the midnight hour, Belle was certain the castle was asleep and made her escape. Fortunately, she knew the habits of the castle very well. She knew which corridors to avoid as the guards did their patrol and changes. And it helped that Lily-Rose was asleep during this sneaky task. Although, Belle had a feeling that her daughter would have kept quiet if she was awake.
Eventually, she arrived in the stables and quickly had her horse saddled. With one arm holding Lily-Rose to her chest, Belle swung her leg over the saddle and urged her mare towards the road that would take her into Avonlea's forest. According to her books, Reul Ghorm lived in the forest and the deeper she went… the better off she would have in summoning this being.
Minutes stretched until Belle felt she was deep enough without getting lost. She found a spot to leave her horse and tied the reins on a branch before picking up Lily-Rose and moving away so the animal wouldn't be spooked. Once she put some distance between them, Belle peered into the darkness at the shadows dancing on the tree trunks. She never realized until now how different the woods were at night. The solitude was quiet and lonely that she didn't realize how frightening it was or how dangerous.
But she couldn't give up. She had to do this for her daughter's sake.
Raising her head high, Belle called out Reul Ghorm's name.
Silence greeted her and Belle took a deep breath before calling out again. And again.
"You called?"
Lily-Rose shifted in her blankets and let out a whimper as Belle whipped around and saw the tiny figure surrounded in blue light hovering over their heads. The beauty's eyes widened in surprise until she realized that this must be the Reul Ghorm from her books. She had no idea that it was a fairy! Well, she read that fairies always helped those in need and seeing how her invocation worked already… It stood to reason that she would help Belle after all!
"I was… I was hoping you could give me an answer about something. You see I need to know the truth and this is a very delicate situation. I do require the utmost discretion possible and that this will not be breathed to another living soul."
"Of course, your Majesty," the Blue Fairy assured her. "Many times I have come to the aid of those in the royal families in this land. Whatever problem that has you concerned I will do my best to ensure that what you seek to know will not be shared. You have my word."
"Good. I was hoping you would say that." Belle felt herself relaxing at the knowledge. "You can understand why I need the assurances." She removed the blanket to uncover the top of Lily-Rose's head. "I want to know if my daughter—"
The loud gasp from the fairy startled Belle as the winged creature flew back away from her. There was no mistaken the look of horror that filled her face as she shakily pointed her wand at the oblivious slumbering baby. "I heard the rumors and prayed they were false. This cannot be and yet… I know why you came to me concerned with this grave manner."
"What? What's wrong?" Belle demanded, not liking the Blue Fairy's expression or tone. Was it possible that Lily-Rose was enchanted? Not by Rumple. She knew he would never harm a child but the Evil Queen… She wouldn't put it passed her considering her history with her lover. Could she have put a spell on Lily-Rose without anyone being none the wiser? The sickening feeling arose in her belly as she clung to her child. What kind of mother was she to allow such a horrid thing to happen? How she could have failed her?
Pity flooded through the Blue Fairy's countenance as the lovely Queen paled with dread. The poor thing probably didn't have a clue what happened and it only made Blue's anger towards the vile fiend deepened. And the young princess… So innocent and yet it was not her fault for the kind of life she would no doubt face as she grew older.
"Tell me please!" Belle pleaded, the silence stretching on too long. She came to know the truth, and even if it wasn't what she wanted to hear… She had to know for her daughter's sake. And, maybe then, she'll know what to do to protect her.
Resigned, the Blue Fairy nodded. "The child… Dark magic flows in her veins. It's nothing I've ever seen before. Such power as this could only mean one thing."
"The Dark One," Belle finished. Her heart skipped a beat. Dark magic resided in Lily-Rose. It wasn't some curse or spell. It was in her blood. Her father's blood. Rumple lied! He was the father, but why did he insist in his letter he wasn't?
The confusion etched on her brow was misread by Reul Ghorm. If she was confused how the Dark One could have been the father, then that meant that his crimes reached a whole new level of heinous. "My Queen… I am so sorry to be the bearer of bad news. But your baby… I can't imagine how you must feel. I know the Dark One has committed a lot of evil, but to take you against your will… To use his magic to manipulate you so you would bear his child. It's unthinkable."
Hearing this, Belle could only gape at what she was implying. "What? N-no! It wasn't—"
"I knew the Dark One was under controlled here and the King, your husband, had him act as your bodyguard. Somehow he must have found a loophole to catch you off-guard or tricked you so he could take advantage. No doubt this was his revenge for being captured. What he hoped to gain from it… I believe you're starting to see it. It won't be long before her magic loses control and people will know who she is. This is not her fault. She's a complete innocent but people will not be that understanding. They will see what they want to see—a monster. I fear there is little I can do to change that. But I can see if I can find a way to bind her magic. To make sure nothing bad befalls her."
She couldn't mean… "You want to take her magic away?" she whispered. "You'll take her?"
The Blue Fairy nodded sadly. "I don't know if I can do this. It's possible that I won't be able to, but no one will blame you. You're as blameless as the princess. At least I might be able to use some spells to make sure that Lily-Rose will never know."
"No! I refuse you to do this!" Belle exclaimed. "That is not what I wanted."
"It wasn't?" Now, the Blue Fairy was confused. "But your highness… the Dark One he hurt you."
"No he didn't," she emphasized. "My child is not a product of rape like you're suggesting. This child was created out of love. I do not want to strip her of her powers or what her father has given her. I only wanted to know if it was true. If Rumplestiltskin was her father."
Blue's eyes widened in shock. "His spell must still be working. You cannot possibly mean what you say. He did this to you. He is making you think it was love."
"It is love," Belle repeated with more force. "I love him. I still do after he has left. I can only think that he might have abandoned us was for our protection. He probably feared the stigma that would follow Lily-Rose if people knew she was the Dark One's daughter. But he hadn't counted on the fact she would inherit his magic. That's it. That was why he wrote that letter…"
"Milady," Blue said. "I know it's a lot to take in but this is for the best. For you and Lily-Rose. Here… let me take her."
Belle quickly evaded her attempt to take Lily-Rose. Her blue eyes hardened as she glared at the fairy for the audacity. "I will not hand her over. She is my child. She is under my protection. You have done enough and I thank you for the clarity. But I will not give my baby up for what you think is the best. I know what's best for her. You will keep your word that no one else will know that Rumple has a child. If anyone tries to take her from me, then I will know it was you. And I assure you, I will hunt you down."
The Queen's threat hit its mark as the Blue Fairy stared at her in disbelief. Clearly, this wasn't the outcome she expected.
"You're upset. I understand," the fairy spoke carefully. "I overstepped my boundaries in assuming that would have been your wish. I will not tell anyone. I give you my word. However, if you should change your mind…"
"Believe me, I won't," Belle growled under her breath, completely appalled at the notion.
"Either way, I will come to you. I am not your enemy, your Majesty. I will never harm a child. I only want to do what is right and good for the princess. That is my only intention."
"Be it as it may," Belle said. "I am her mother and I will decide what is right and good for her. I bid you good night."
"Very well. Farewell your highness." With one last saddened parting look, the Blue Fairy flew away from Belle and the infant.
Lily-Rose chose to wake and she cried softly. Cooing and whispering to her, Belle pressed her lips to her head as she hugged her closer to her bosom. While she was upset with Reul Ghorm's decision, Belle knew in her gut that the fairy had a point. People were becoming suspicious and afraid and there was the matter of the rumors… She had no doubt it wouldn't be long for someone tried to do something foolish and reckless.
"I will protect you," Belle vowed. "With every fiber of my being and breath, I will protect you. No one will take you from me. No one will call you a monster. Your father isn't and I will make sure that you will never know that feeling."
From the distance, Blue watched as the Queen got back on her horse and began her trek back to the castle. Yes… there was dark magic that she sensed in the princess, but there was something else… Something that was much stranger and stronger than the darkness. There was another rumor but it was never confirmed or denied. The idea, while terribly romantic, was nothing that could be proven to be an actual fact.
Yet…
Blue frowned. There was more to learn and she couldn't risk upsetting the Queen of Avonlea any further than she did. She will monitor the princess from afar and see if her suspicions are accurate. If they are… then this changed the laws of magic forever.
xXx
"Then she offered to take Lily-Rose to see if she could remove her powers. Imagine! To think I would hand her off like she meant nothing… Oh Hannah. I am so relieved to know that Rumple is her father. My heart is bursting with joy and happiness over the news that I knew had to be true. I can only believe that he left for our protection. But it still confuses me as to why he didn't take us with him. Perhaps he had reason to fear that Lily-Rose would be in danger? Or he saw something in his visions that he felt unable to share with me."
Belle wakened her maid as soon as she returned from the forest. With Lily-Rose safely ensconced in her bed and the straw dummies disposed, Belle told her confidante about her meeting with Reul Ghorm. Even Hannah was astounded over the fact that the Blue Fairy was willing to take the princess away! But she wasn't surprised to hear that the Dark One fathered her young mistress. Her mistress and the imp clearly cared for each other, so it was happy news indeed.
"Hannah," Belle sighed. "I want to find him. I want to tell him that our daughter is in trouble, but I don't know where to look. I have no doubt he has not returned to the Dark Castle to ensure no one else tries to take his dagger." Not to mention he has his Curse that he's working on. I know he had a hand with Snow's wedding, but there has been little news about the Dark One. "But running off will not solve the problem either. I see that. However, I have to do something."
"What will you do?" Hannah asked.
Belle placed her thumb between her lips as she pondered that herself. "I'll think of something. But first there is the matter of these horrid rumors. I need to put these to rest."
"That would be very difficult, my lady," Hannah pointed out. "Besides, you tried that by having the King and princess spends more time in public together."
"I know Gaston is trying but it's not easy for him. I fear they will never get along." Belle covered her face. It almost felt hopeless but she couldn't give into despair. She had to follow her heart in doing the right thing.
"Will you tell the King about this?"
Belle looked up. "I'll think of something. Until then I need to make sure that no new rumors are being shared. I need to have allies."
"My Queen?" Hannah asked not sure if she was following her.
"Hannah, do you think you can be discreet enough to find out who is loyal to me and Lily-Rose? We might be able to track down whoever is starting these ridiculous lies and stop them."
"I can try but—"
"No buts Hannah. This has to be done. I see no other option. Once I know who this person is and stopped then that would keep the rumors at bay. Lily-Rose wouldn't be in danger."
"Very well. I'll start first thing in the morning."
Belle nodded and dismissed her so they can both get some sleep. Of course, lying in bed, Belle tossed back and forth. After everything she had learned sleep would not come easy for her. She trusted Hannah to determine if any of the servants were steadfast to the crown. That wouldn't be an issue. There was a matter about Gaston.
How much should she tell him?
The actual truth would not do. The last thing she wanted was for him to go on a sudden campaign to find Rumple in a suicide mission. She may not be in love with Gaston, but she loved him and she cared for what might happened to him. And Gods know what will happen to the kingdom of Avonlea once they hear that the Dark One was indeed the father to her child. The chaos could very well tear Avonlea apart and Belle couldn't let that happen.
But if she were to tell Gaston in secret… He was a good man beneath it all and a knight who lived by a code. Knights protected the innocent and Lily-Rose was as innocent as they come. Yet, it would crush his heart to know she wasn't his daughter. Would he still want to protect her once he knew the truth?
If she were to follow and maintain the lie she started, then she would have no choice but to constantly shield Lily-Rose for the rest of her life. She would have to tell her daughter to hide her true self, to not use magic, and Belle could foresee that turning badly against her. After all, Belle knew what it was like to hide yourself and she hated it. She hated that her Papa doted on her and kept her out of the Council because she was a woman and suitors would not find her agreeable if she spoke out too much. She vowed if she ever had a daughter she would not keep her in the dark. Yet, she was possibly considering in raising Lily-Rose to ignore the magic in her.
Rumple wouldn't like it and Belle would be a hypocrite.
No.
She couldn't do that to her daughter. She would want her to be her own person and not be afraid of her abilities or what others might think. Belle wanted Lily-Rose to have the world and find happiness.
Nevertheless, she couldn't ignore the fact that if any of the rumors were confirmed about the princess, then her people might turn against her. To have the Dark One's blood on the throne could spell revolt and war and bloodshed.
No.
She couldn't allow that to happen.
Oh Rumple, she thought. Maybe you thought leaving us behind was for the best, but didn't you know the possibilities that could arise? How can I be a leader and a mother when everything is so conflicted? How can I protect our Lily-Rose and not have her grow up to despise the restrictions set upon her? And what of her dark magic she has inherited? Would she be able to control it or will she be forced to endure a lifetime of solitude for what she can do?
It was silly of her to expect her lover to suddenly appear with all the answers. But Belle hoped that maybe somewhere… out there… he might hear the desperate call of her heart and provide some counsel on what she should do.
Instead, she fell asleep and by chance maybe a solution will come to her by morning.
xXx
The dawning of a new day didn't bring much enlightenment as Belle would have liked. Yet, it did give her a chance to dream of all the paths she could take and the possible consequences that might follow.
Most were nightmares.
But she was Queen and as such she would have to make the tough decisions. Even if there was the slightest risk that it could blow up in her face… she had to follow her heart. She prayed to the Gods to give her the strength for what she must do and after she broke her fast she requested an audience with her husband in her library.
At least in the library she had some sort of armor.
Like she expected, Gaston was a bit surprised by the sudden invitation. It had been sometime since husband and wife had been alone. Of course, Belle hadn't had the heart to put too much effort in her marriage lately and Gaston felt the same if his inattention to her was anything to go by. She prayed that her plan would work and that she could wholly convince him for what she needed him to do.
"You have asked to see me Belle?" Gaston asked as soon as he entered the library. Tentatively, he looked around to see if Lily-Rose was nearby. His eyes fell upon their daughter in her crib as she played with her dolls.
With Hannah busy on determining who was loyal, Belle didn't trust anyone else with her child. She made sure that Lily-Rose had plenty to keep her busy while she spoke to her husband.
"Gaston, there is something I must tell you. I wasn't sure on how to approach you with this, but I have no other choice. You need to hear what I have to say to you."
"Belle?" he asked in confusion.
"Surely, by now, you must have heard the whispers that not everything is as happy as it should be. That you and Lily-Rose are still adjusting with one another."
Gaston shifted his weight and lowered his head at his own failure in connecting with his daughter. "I have heard things," he said carefully. "I know you've been trying to help, but I accepted I have not the talent that some fathers are born with. I shouldn't be surprised since I was born with a sword in my hand and my father directing me in the ways to be a proper knight. I don't know how to be a loving or caring father that our daughter deserves. Not like your father."
Belle's heart ached for him. He was trying and all she was doing was deceiving him in this pretense that he was a father. Her eyes drifted closed and murmured an apology for her next words.
"I'm afraid Gaston. The talks about our daughter have been getting out of control and I fear for her. Ever since the Dark One has fled, the people have been worried that he might strike us in revenge for what he endured in our captivity. Some say that he has placed a spell on Lily-Rose, making her lash out at you so she creates a rift between you. I don't like hearing that our daughter is cursed and being used so masterfully as a puppet to ruin Avonlea. You know that I won't believe such trivialities but she is so young… so small… What if someone tries to take her from us thinking they are acting out as some hero for all of Avonlea? Or worse… what if the Dark One does return and takes her away from us? He might decide retribution might be the better course after we used the dagger against him."
"I can see him doing that to me because I did steal it, but Belle… You and Lily-Rose don't have a part in this. You hardly commanded him and she's only a baby…"
"But I'm your wife and she your child. That is your weakness and the Dark One exploits the weaknesses of others. You know the stories as well as I do about what he can do and what he is capable of doing."
"Yes but you were the one that insisted he was a man and be treated so. I cannot imagine him turning that away after my actions."
"I didn't think he would trick us and leave us, but he did," Belle rejoined. "Gaston, we need to be careful and do what's in our power to make sure she is protected. Can you station more soldiers around the castle so I know she is protected everywhere?"
"Have there been any direct threats towards Lily-Rose?"
"No. But I'd rather not wait and see if it happens. Please Gaston."
"If it will please you…"
"It will!"
"…then it shall be done. I'll make sure that guards are posted all over the castle and by Lily-Rose's and your room. Hopefully that will give you a peace of mind, my wife."
"It will. Thank you Gaston."
He nodded and looked at Lily-Rose who stopped playing and now was watching them intently. Bowing to his wife, Gaston took his leave and went to carry out his new orders about more guards for the Queen and princess.
Relieved her plan worked, Belle sank down in the closest chair. She only prayed that if Rumple ever got wind about what she had done, then he would forgive her for the lengths she took with the lie.
xxXXxx
Present
Once everyone was gathered up, they headed downstairs to the Carlyle Restaurant. It was very ornate like the hotel and had an English country feel to it with the hunting scenes pictured and various engravings of flowers and open fields.
The hostess led them to a round table with a white lily as the centerpiece. Belle marveled over the presentation with the very fine white tablecloth, the ivory and gold-rimmed plates, and the tea light candles that adorned around the flower. Of course, she was more concerned that Lily-Rose might have a field day with the shiny utensils so she hastily moved her place-settings near hers. Fortunately, a high chair was brought out to set inside the chair for Lily-Rose to reach the table.
Rumple sat on the other side of his daughter as Emma and Henry took the other seats. The latter took one look at the menu with bulging eyes in disbelief. "Look at these prices! They're twice… no three times the price of Granny's!"
"This is the high life, kiddo," Emma said. "See? They have a lobster omelette—not omelet, mind you—while we common folks get ours with ham or sausage."
"If you don't like what they have to offer, then you're more than welcome to buy your own breakfast Ms. Swann," Rumple said evenly.
"Now, let's not get hasty. You are buying and I would feel rude not to accept the offer," the Savior replied with a smirk.
"Of course," he muttered.
"Well, I'm with Henry. This is way too rich for me," Belle agreed, closing the menu. "We should do the buffet. At least there are more options."
"Amen. You said it," Emma said, grinning. "And whadda you know? It's the most expensive thing on here. Let's go Henry."
They both got up before Rumple could respond. He sighed while his fiancée and child giggled. "Face it Rumple," Belle said, smiling brightly. "You can't always have the last word."
"Oh aye. You and Ms. Swann have that knack."
She chuckled. "I'm starved. I'll get some cereal and fruit for Lily-Rose. Watch her?"
Rumple nodded. "Of course."
She got up and gave him a peck on the lips and hurried over to the buffet table. Rumple looked at his daughter as she gave him a cheeky grin. "You okay now Papa?"
"I am wee one. Are you excited to meet your brother?"
"Yes! Henry told me a lot about him from his book." Then she scrunched up her face. "Will Baelfire like me? What if he doesn't want a sister but a brother?"
Seeing she was getting upset, Rumple quickly held her hand. "Now, now sweetling," he said. "Of course he will like you. He will love you. And if I remembered correctly… Bae always wished for a little sister."
That seemed to make her feel better. "Good. Sisters are better," she proclaimed.
"Indeed." Yet, Rumple was more worried how his son would react in seeing him. Not that a two-year-old would understand the complexity of the situation, but his daughter was wise beyond her years. She seemed to sense her Papa's anxiousness as she leaned in her seat and tugged on his hand so he would move closer.
As Rumple did, she placed a loud and wet kiss on his cheek. "Baelfire loves you too Papa. We'll be a family again."
Tears pricked the back of his eyes as he nodded. "I hope so, my dear. I hope so."
Pressing his hand against his eyes, Rumple wiped away the loose tears and fixed his composure before Emma and Henry returned with a heaping plate of food. Well, Emma had only one… Henry had two.
Belle came back with two plates—one for herself and for Lily-Rose—and Rumple went up to get his own. Of course, his stomach was all in tangles and knots so he didn't think he could stomach too much solid food. He settled for a couple slices of French toast and melon. This and coffee was all he needed.
He felt rather than see Belle's disapproval, but she didn't say a word knowing he would feel better once they located Bae. At least he ate everything he had on his plate and finished off a couple cups of coffee.
"So we have to talk about the game plan," Emma said between mouthfuls of scrambled eggs and bacon. "Did your magical globe tell you where to find him?"
"It pinpointed the Manhattan area. As to the exact spot… well, it's more of a hunch," Rumple said. "If it is where I think it is… then I'll know. Otherwise, we have a lot of ground to cover."
Emma swallowed thickly. "Let's hope your hunch pans out."
As soon as the check was paid, they were all squeezing back into a taxi to take them to Mulberry Street—the heart of Little Italy.
"Do you think we can get some cannolis?" Henry asked.
"After what you chowed down? Seriously?" Emma asked, twisting around in her front seat to look at her son.
The boy shrugged and grinned sheepishly. "I have room for it. Honestly."
"We'll see," she promised.
"Why not?" Rumple said. "After all, he is a growing boy."
"You're not spoiling my kid, Gold."
"I was thinking about treating my family. I would hate to see you deny him such a goodie—"
"Children," Belle interjected. "As much as I hate to disturb you, I believe we're here."
As the taxi rolled to a stop, Rumple looked out the window to the building with the tarnished numbers 89 emblazoned above the door. A tingling sensation went over his body and he knew this was it. This was where his son was living.
I found you Bae.
xxXXxx
Avonlea
A couple weeks passed since the increased guards Belle had requested. Fortunately, no attempts had been made against Lily-Rose. Although, Belle wasn't taking any chances and kept up the guard routine. The only problem was that Lily-Rose was realizing she could do things with her hands, such as make objects float and disappear. Since her magic was untrained and she was at a young age the tricks didn't last long. They would eventually fall to the ground or reappear where they once were.
Of course, Belle knew something like this would happen and she couldn't let it be breathed that the princess could do magic. She instructed the guards to never be in the room as the princess as long as either Belle or Hannah was present. This was always the case so the two women could keep an eye on the wily child lest the secret be exposed that she was in fact the Dark One's. Yet, instinctively, or due to self-preservation, Lily-Rose knew not to do her magic when others were present. However, Belle wasn't taking the risk not until Lily-Rose was old enough to understand to control it.
Before she knew it, a month passed and in that time frame, some things began to change.
First, the rumors about the princess were dissipating. Ever since Gaston ordered the guards around his daughter, the people saw it as an act of love and protection for her well-being. The King would only do that if the princess was his and if he also feared for the Dark One's retribution. It was a blessing that most believed in the latter. At least those rumors about Belle and the Dark One having an inappropriate relationship seemed to be done. And, again, only the boldest would have dared to say such inflammatory things about the beloved Queen.
It also helped (thanks to Hannah) that Belle was able to reassess which servants were loyal to her. It didn't take much for those to point out who was saying those hurtful words and untruths about Belle. Of course, Belle took the measures carefully to make sure she wasn't dismissing anyone without proof.
In the end she had to only get rid of two. Samuel, the groomsman, was one and the other was a chamber maid. It seemed that Samuel wanted free pints at the tavern so he would tell the ugly stories in order to get them. As for the maid, she was insistent that something was wrong with the princess. She hadn't liked the fact that the Dark One spent so much time with the Queen; in fact, she didn't like royalty all that much.
Now, this stunned Belle. All their servants were paid a wage and provided with rooms if they wish to live in the castle. Yet, Millie loathed to work and grumbled and complained about the inhabitants all the time much to the chagrin of the others. There wasn't much love lost when she was removed from her post, but Belle insisted that both servants were paid their remaining wages of the year so they would have enough to last until they found new work. Those two might have been willing to tarnish her name and her daughter's but she wasn't heartless. Belle took the high road and it only made her people love her more for her goodness.
While the sources were gone, there wasn't as much fodder to be spread. However, it didn't stop a gossip whisperer now and then. At least Belle felt confident that no one would take action now, but she maintained the guards around her daughter. It was best to be cautious and not fall into the lull of false security.
Of course, it was a matter of time that the rumors were shared with Gaston. He was deeply upset at hearing about the Dark One possibly impregnating his wife, but he told Belle that he trusted her and knew nothing happened. The Dark One was repulsive and unnatural looking so there was no way that she would share his bed.
It pained Belle to lie right to his face when her heart still beat with love for Rumple. It only made it harder for when the right time came for Belle to eventually reveal that Lily-Rose wasn't Gaston's. So for now she stuck to the script she created and continued to behave as the loving and doting wife, but in private, the King and Queen continued to sleep in separate chambers. And whenever Gaston tried approaching her in engaging his marital rights, she had a reason every time to turn him away.
It was like Rumple was under the roof again when she was doing everything in her power to avoid being in bed with her husband. At least with Lily-Rose she could use her daughter as a ploy to keep Gaston from entering her chamber or going to his. Belle did feel awful about using her child in such a way, but she wanted to avoid another possible pregnancy, especially since there was a higher chance that Gaston would be the father. She wouldn't be able to abandon Gaston's child but she also wanted to be with Rumple so they can form their own family. And when they find Bae… the little family would be complete.
As cruel and unfair as it may seem, Belle kept away from Gaston. Eventually, he stopped seeking her out, but not because he might have decided to take a mistress instead. Oh no… Gaston was far more chivalrous and faithful to do such a thing. And he had promised her father on his deathbed he wouldn't do anything to hurt her. Although, Belle wished he would. If some other woman could make him happy, then it would alleviate her guilt. She thought about telling him that so many times, but it was an uncomfortable subject and not really something that could easily be brought up at the breakfast or dinner table. And if she did then he might figure out that she had been unfaithful and it wouldn't be long for him to realize that it was Rumple she had been unfaithful with!
No…
She couldn't mention it. Not when she wasn't sure if Rumple would come back for them.
In the romantic fairy tale ending, Belle knew he would find them and they could end this sham and be together. Realistically, Belle knew his reasons for leaving them behind and that he believed she and Lily-Rose would be better off in their current situation rather than the unknown future with him. But also, Belle knew she couldn't be content with this charade. As time went on, the lies were slowly gnawing at her and she knew there will come a time when she would stop the lies for the sake of her sanity.
Until then, it was wiser to stay where she was just until Lily-Rose becomes old enough for them to leave. After all, there was nothing worse than a young woman and an infant as an easy target for any thieves on the road. No, Belle wouldn't take the journey prematurely and had to be satisfied that all was well with Rumple based on the news traveling through the Enchanted Forest.
For one, it was known that the Princess Snow White was wed to Prince James (David actually, since Belle was with Rumple when he persuaded the shepherd to take his twin's place). She knew part of his plan involved in making sure these two were together. And if they were married… then it meant that Rumple was safe and his plan was working.
Of course, it didn't mean she knew his location. He wouldn't have been a wedding guest, but it didn't stop Belle from hoping he was close by.
Unfortunately, Belle and Gaston hadn't attended the event. With Lily-Rose being so young, they couldn't make the trip to extend their blessings. Belle refused to leave her daughter home alone and Gaston didn't want to go unless he should offend Regina, the Evil Queen.
Sometime ago, the King had welcomed the Queen into Avonlea and had pled Avonlea's friendship and loyalty to her while she was on the hunt for the fugitive Snow White. Belle had been against it, but she had no choice to obey her husband's decision when it was the safe thing to do. She was pregnant at the time and Rumple was worried about Regina doing something to hurt Belle or the baby. Belle knew there had to be more to his uneasiness about the Evil Queen than he was letting on, but the one thing about the imp that was infuriating time and time again was how damn secretive he could be. Sadly, she never knew what exactly since Rumple left not too long afterwards.
Yet, they knew that Regina did attend the event as there was talk now about a Curse she would cast to ruin happy endings. It certainly kept people on the edge as they didn't know when this will happen. Not even Rumple told Belle how long it would take so part of her wasn't surprised that Regina made the threat. But it did make the Queen of Avonlea concerned what this could mean to her and Lily-Rose. She hadn't liked the way Regina had looked at her when she was pregnant and there was a part of her that was afraid that she could sense the dark magic that was residing in her at the time.
Since Lily-Rose's birth, there haven't been any appearances made by the Evil Queen. This was okay by Belle. She didn't want to see that vile woman ever again. That one time was enough to last her a lifetime. However, knowing her husband's poor choice of words that one fateful afternoon… Avonlea was considered an ally to the Evil Queen. So it would be a matter of time before she did pay them a visit to pay her "respects."
But with the growing influence of Snow and her husband affecting the people, the Evil Queen has had her hands busy dealing with her step-daughter. It was a blessing in disguise and Belle thanked the Gods for the diversion.
Meanwhile, Belle did find herself in a very unusual and surprising meeting of sorts.
Ever since her unpleasant interaction with the Blue Fairy, Belle was anxious that the magical being would break her word and come after Lily-Rose. She turned to her books and read more about fairies and didn't like the fact that it said that fairies were meant to spread the influence of good across the lands. Even though it sounded like a good thing and Belle was grateful there was a force to deal with evil… It was the subtext that bothered her.
There have been accounts when innocents were touched by evil and fairies were called on by desperate families to help them. Now, the books mentioned the innocents were cleansed and harmony restored in the households. Everything worked out in the end. Even those who were victims were grateful for the fairies intervening and saving them.
It was all very pleasant and too good to be true, which made these accounts unsettling. It was… too perfect of a happy ending.
Now, Belle being a reader and all was well aware that the books were leaving out the necessary and imperative parts about the fairies way of handling these situations. It was never explained what "cleansed" meant, meaning there could be many interpretations at what needed to be done. One of which could have been insidious in nature.
The other detail the books hinted at (although not explicitly stating) was how fairies had to stop evil at all costs. At least it was the impressions she got and while not many attempts to stop Regina have been made… Lily-Rose was an infant and could be easy to subdue. That was what had Belle worried.
Closing the book, she looked over her shoulder as Lily-Rose was mimicking her mother by turning pages of a book. Her little nose was scrunched up as she stared intently at the words as if she was trying to decipher them. Then, giving up, she looked at Belle with a pout.
"Mommy, read?" she asked hopefully.
"Yes, of course," Belle said with a smile. Getting up, she went over and scooped her up and the book she was looking at. It was a fairy tale and one of Belle's favorites, but she thought of another story her daughter would love.
Sitting down, Belle sat Lily-Rose on her lap and encircled her arms around her so they were facing one another. "I have a better story than this one. Let's see… Once upon a time there was a spinner and his son…"
Belle went on to share the struggles the spinner and his son shared, which led the spinner into turning into a powerful sorcerer with scaly skin like a lizard and chameleon eyes that could turn from amber to black in a second. In short, she was telling her child about her father—well, the kid friendly version about his life. She was careful in how she worded things so Lily-Rose wouldn't pick up on the actual truth. When she is older, then Belle will reveal that the story was real. Until then he was a character she seemingly made up on the spot.
However, there was no denying her daughter's interest with her wide-eyed and full of wonder gaze. It was times like this that Belle saw how much Lily-Rose looked like her father and it was almost like he was there in spirit. At least it was how Belle imagined Rumple might have been like when he was human.
As Belle's voice continued to describe the imp's adventures, Lily-Rose's eyes began to droop as they became heavy with fatigue. Then she was out like a light, her face nestling against her mother's chest. A tiny grin danced on her lips—no doubt imagining the silly antics of this sorcerer.
Pressing a kiss on top of her head, Belle then lifted her up and walked down to their room. She didn't realize how tired she was until Lily-Rose fell asleep. Now all she wanted to do was crawl underneath her covers herself.
She nodded to the guard at her door and the one trailing behind her, dismissing the latter. Once inside she dressed Lily-Rose in her nightclothes and laid her down in her cradle. For a moment, Belle watched her sleep. How could anyone think she was evil? Dark magic might be inside her, but that didn't define her character or what type of person she'll become. And for the Blue Fairy to insinuate…
No! I will not think on it right now. She's safe and I have to trust the Blue Fairy will keep her word. That was the one silver lining in all this. At least Reul Ghorm kept her word and hadn't contacted her or tried to take Lily-Rose away. But it didn't mean that they will have this reprieve for long. For all Belle knew, the fairies could be lying in wait for the right time to strike.
Of course that got her thinking—what would Rumple do? His natural course of action would be magic. But Belle wasn't magical and she wouldn't know how to begin to foster such talents. But she had her books and she was a quick learner. Yet, she didn't recall seeing anything about spells or wards to keep fairies at bay. Then again, fairies were meant to be the heroes, the good guys.
Well, there has to be a way, she thought. I'll find it. I know I can. I have to dig deeper.
Bending over, she gave Lily-Rose another kiss. "Dream beautifully, my angel," she whispered.
Belle rose and proceeded to go to her changing screen to change into her nightgown. As she did, she noticed a bright flash of light near her window.
Curious, she grabbed her robe and deftly tied the strings as she stepped towards the window to see what it was. She didn't hear anything associated with the light so it wasn't an attack on the castle.
Peering out into the darkness, Belle didn't see anything suspicious to raise the alarms to her guard. In fact there was nothing there.
Shrugging to herself and thinking she was seeing things, Belle began to turn away until she heard the soft tapping at the glass.
Frowning, she looked down as she saw a small being with wings and a pink jellyfish dress. Belle's eyes widened when she recognized the being was a fairy.
The tapping became a fervent pounding as panic crossed the fairy's features. Then Belle looked up as she saw an owl flying towards her… towards the fairy. Immediately, the Queen opened the window and quickly motioned the fairy to enter, which she quickly did. Swiftly, Belle closed the window before the owl could swoop down and breathed a sigh of relief as the owl flew away.
That had been close.
"Thank you! I would have been owl bait for sure, but thank you so much!" the fairy chirped behind her.
Startled, Belle whirled around as the fairy beamed at her. "You're welcome," Belle said carefully, eyeing her warily. She wasn't Reul Ghorm but Belle didn't know who this fairy was or why she was flying outside her castle in the middle of the night. But despite her initial fears, Belle sensed that this fairy she didn't need to fear.
"I know this must be pretty shocking. A fairy frightened of an owl when she could just use her wand to disorient him or talk to him or—" Realizing she was babbling, the fairy sheepishly giggled. "Didn't I mention thank you?"
"You did," Belle said. "But now that you mentioned it… why didn't you use your wand?"
"I can assure you that I certainly did not lose it that's what," the fairy replied.
Belle arched her brow, disbelieving her. "Okay, maybe I did misplace it. It was an accident. But I know I can find it. As soon as the sun comes up I'll be out of your hair and—" She paused as she nervously rubbed her hands. "You don't believe me."
"Not a wink," Belle responded.
"Oh darn. I really messed up. I tried not to but she told me if I did this then I could start my fairy god-mother training and silly me wanted it so bad and I just had to find a way to goof it up and I don't know if I'll ever become one or if I'm stuck in collecting fairy dust duty again, which isn't fun at all, and—"
"Slow down. Take a deep breath. There… Now, let's start at the beginning, all right?" Belle suggested.
"Yes that is a good idea. My name is Nova and—I did it again." She slapped her hand on her forehead, shaking her head.
"Hello Nova," Belle said, finding herself smiling in spite that this fairy was frazzled and clearly bungling up her not so secretive mission. "I assume you know who I am and that Reul Ghorm sent you to spy on me."
"Yes, your highness. I mean—I know who you are. Queen Belle of Avonlea. And I wasn't spying. I swear it. I was…"
"This is the first time you're gathering intel. Well, normally you do so without being chased by a hungry owl."
Nova chuckled embarrassingly. "Kind of obvious, huh?"
Belle nodded. "A bit."
"I'm sorry," Nova repeated. "I know how this must look but it's not what you think."
"Why don't you enlighten me, then," Belle said. "And you can answer my questions on why Reul Ghorm can't leave my daughter alone."
xXx
It ended up being one of the strangest conversations Belle had ever had. Nova was distraught and apologetic for her behavior. She didn't want Belle to think she was here to hurt or take Lily-Rose from her. She was simply asked to watch over the little princess and make sure that she was all right.
"For what reason? I told the Blue Fairy I wanted her to stay away from my daughter. Does she still think I will give her up—"
Nova gasped in horror at the idea. "Oh no! Not at all! Blue wanted to make sure she was safe. You may not know this but your daughter is extremely powerful."
"I'm well aware of it," Belle said.
"No, I mean, really powerful," Nova added. "But it's not a bad thing. It's actually something very good, but I can't share too much about it. I don't even know if it's possible. Blue didn't think so but she wanted me to watch anyways. Of course, I don't know if I can tell her anything. This whole thing isn't right. Fairies aren't supposed to spy. We make lousy ones."
"So why did you do it?" the beauty asked.
Nova sighed. "I want to help people. As a fairy god-mother, I can do so much good and help those who really deserve it. But Blue tells me I'm a klutz and I have to be careful otherwise I'll do more harm than good."
"That's horrible!"
"Well, it's the truth. I am clumsy but I've been doing better! Apart from this mishap."
"So why is Blue interested in my daughter?" Belle questioned.
"I don't know for sure, but it does have to do with the magic inside her," Nova answered. "She wouldn't tell me. And, honestly, I was so focused on the part I could start my training that I really didn't think things through."
As Belle spoke to Nova, she could tell that the young fairy was remorseful in what she was doing. It seemed that the so-called benevolent Blue Fairy knew which strings to pull to convince the gullible Nova to take part in this scheme. Belle couldn't find it in herself to stay angry at the fairy. At least she didn't seem that much of a threat and it wasn't like a group of fairies were charging in after using her as a distraction. Perhaps, there was some truth to Nova's story.
"I appreciate your honesty with me Nova. I do," Belle assured her. "I'm sorry that you were put in the middle of this. As much as I am relieved that she intends to keep her promise and not take Lily-Rose from me, she did use you."
Nova glanced down at her feet. "I know," she finally said, her voice shaking at the admittance. "I really wanted to get out of the mines and stop collecting fairy dust. Especially after—" At this Nova shuddered as tears glistened in her brown eyes. "It's nothing I guess. It was all in my head anyways."
"What was?"
"Dreamy," she murmured. "He's a dwarf but he's cute and funny and he saved my dust one time. He was my hero that day and then—"
"What?" Belle prodded.
"I felt a connection and I told him I like to watch the fireflies on Firefly Hill, but he never showed up. I guess he didn't like me like I thought he did."
"I'm sure that isn't true!" Belle exclaimed. "He probably didn't realize you were inviting him."
"Really? You think so?" Nova asked hopefully.
Belle nodded. "It seems all men have this uncanny ability not to take hints. If you don't tell them straight out, then they'll never know what's in your heart."
"Oh my gosh! I never thought of it like that before. Boy do I feel silly now." She let out another giggle. "Maybe I can try again and this time tell him I want him to come."
"That's the spirit!" Belle grinned.
Nova gazed at her appreciatively. "Thank you. I thought you would be super angry and look at us! Chatting away like old friends. This has been nice and your daughter…" Nova nodded to the sleeping baby. "She's beautiful. She'll grow up to be a wonderful woman like her mother."
"I hope so," Belle said wistfully. "Now, Nova… this thing with the Blue Fairy. Are you absolutely positive that she won't come here and tried to take my child?"
"No! She wouldn't go against her word. That goes against everything a fairy represents," Nova insisted. "I think she was worried with the rumors and everything. The Dark One isn't someone to mess with and your kingdom took a great risk in controlling him. I must admit that a lot of us were surprised that when he did escape he hadn't destroyed Avonlea. All Dark Ones in the past have been known to eventually kill their masters. But not Rumplestiltskin which is odd considering that destruction and evil is in his nature; well, the nature of the Curse of the Dark One. We only could fathom he didn't avenge himself right away was that he had something else up his sleeve. But it's all right now. He's locked up and can't hurt anyone."
"Wha—what?" Belle sputtered. "Locked up?"
"Yes," Nova confirmed. "Though it isn't widely known. The last thing the Enchanted Forest needs is someone foolishly wanting to find Rumplestiltskin and tried to take control of him."
"Of course, I-I understand, but," Belle paused as she regained her bearings over the news. "Who captured him?"
"It was a group effort from what I heard," Nova explained. "Yet it was Princess Ella that tricked him."
"Princess Ella?" Belle frowned. "I am not familiar with the name."
"No you're probably not. She wasn't born a princess but she did marry Prince Thomas. I guess she made a deal with Rumplestiltskin because he demanded her firstborn as payment. She and her husband went to Snow White for help, and before you knew it, the Dark One was trapped and taken away."
Whoever this Ella was, Belle didn't like her. "So he wanted her firstborn? Wasn't that stated in her contract before she signed it?"
Nova shrugged. "It's possible. The Dark One tends to turn the tables on people but he always has it written in ink, which no one takes the time to read it. But still… a baby? What would he have need of one?"
He had to have his reasons. Oh Rumple! What have you gotten yourself into? "Well, he's imprisoned like you said."
"Yes. It's all very hush-hush but I don't know where he is being kept. It wasn't long after that Blue asked me to come here."
Damn. If Belle knew where he was held captive, then she would go straight away with Lily-Rose and find a way to free him. Of course, it would be too easy for her to find all the answers she needed from one source. But at least she knew what happened to him and she prayed that he was well. Although, her heart broke at the thought of him locked away in some prison again and having no friends or anyone care about his welfare. Yet, there was a detail that was missing.
"What of his dagger? Does this Princess Ella have it?"
"No. Actually, no one has seen the dagger. He must have hidden it."
Inwardly, she sighed in relief. The dagger was safe so it meant he wasn't controlled. But they must have found another way of trapping him… that or he wanted it to happen. Either way, she knew he was alive and there was still hope for them.
"Thank you Nova for telling me this. It means a lot to know that my kingdom and people are safe."
"You're welcome." There was a look on her face that Nova didn't buy Belle's words. If anything there was a little hint of a smile. "You love him, don't you?"
"No! Of course not!" Belle said too quickly.
"Uh-huh," Nova rejoined disbelievingly. "It's okay if you do. Despite what Blue says, I think it's possible for someone to love the Dark One and for him to do the same. She forgets… Rumplestiltskin became the Dark One to save his son and the other children from the ogres. For someone so evil to do something so selfless and honorable… there has to be some good in him."
This… surprised Belle. For a fairy to admit that the Dark One might be good was unheard of and she was pretty sincere about it too. Perhaps, she was too quick to judge all fairies as well. Nova was certainly unexpected and not at all like Reul Ghorm with her presumptions. Could it be that she had it all wrong about fairies?
"I appreciate it Nova. I do. No one else seems to understand, but this has to be kept a secret you know."
"Oh yes! Of course!" Nova assured her. "I won't tell a soul. I promise!"
"Good. I can only assume Rumple is doing what he thinks is best." She meant that more for herself, but Nova nodded along. "Thank you Nova. This has been an interesting night, I must say. It was a pleasure meeting you."
"Same here, your majesty."
"Please call me Belle."
"Belle," Nova said. "I won't tell Blue about this, but I will be back now and then. She'll want me to keep reporting and I will make it as dull and boring as possible."
Belle laughed. "Not too boring though. She knows that Lily-Rose's father is Rumple."
"It doesn't mean she'll do something diabolical. But if anything changes with Blue, then I'll do my best to warn you. Lily-Rose is very sweet and I don't sense any evil in her. I mean… there is the dark magic, but not enough to make her completely evil."
She flew over to the window so Belle could unlatch it for her. "Take care. Fly safely now," Belle ordered.
"I will. The owl is nowhere nearby. Good night and goodbye!" With that said, Nova flew away.
Afterwards, true to her word, Nova did return to continue her duty. She took more caution this time, but she made sure to visit Belle and Lily-Rose when they were alone. The fairy adored Lily-Rose and loved to make her laugh. Belle felt safe in her presence and was happy to have obtained a new ally.
Nova kept her in the loop as much as she could about Rumple and anything in regards to Lily-Rose. Fortunate for Belle the talk in the Enchanted Forest has been more about other matters. Unfortunately, those matters have been more about the Evil Queen and the drastic measures she was taking against the people.
It was too much to bear.
Villages were being wiped out, people slaughtered… The cruelty and murderous rage that filled the Evil Queen's path was getting more out of control than ever. Her war on Snow White was getting intense as more people were banding to join the former bandit princess in her crusade to regain her kingdom back.
Belle felt dread for Avonlea during this time. If and when Regina could come calling for more troops meant more innocents dying and Belle's people would be responsible for the bloodshed. The last thing Belle wanted was for her kingdom to be labelled as the enemy, but after Gaston's foolish mistake… They had no choice as "friends" to provide help and assistance if needed. Thankfully, Regina hadn't made that call but it was a matter of time before she might if she grew too desperate.
Belle's only hope resided in the Dark Curse that Rumple told her about. She prayed that the time for that was coming so all of this will be over. And then… hopefully then she can reunite with her love and together find his son.
xXx
"We need to take a stand! Avonlea cannot remain loyal to the Evil Queen no more!"
"Hush! That is not her name!"
"She needs to be stopped!"
"We can't afford such actions! Avonlea is no longer under the protection of the Dark One or have you forgotten—"
The men's voices drowned out as everyone at once launched into the debate. Belle watched on with a heavy heart while her husband sat there stoic and unreadable. This should be the time for some course of action, but either the Council was too scared or too suicidal to think things through. While Belle favored the side about taking action against Regina, she knew there was no solution other than war as much as she loathed the idea.
Gaston, on the other hand, hadn't said a word and Belle was growing anxious that his silence didn't bode well.
Gaston, she thought. You need to make a decision. Please let it be a fair and right one.
She had already disclosed her personal feelings about the subject when it came to Regina. Her husband knew she didn't like the Queen and that her recent behavior was unacceptable and downright brutal. Belle didn't want her ancestral lands to be stained with the blood of the innocents and be forever known as the kingdom that supported Regina's bloodthirsty reign.
It was times like this that Belle wished her father had been alive to provide some insight or advice on what to do. Gaston placed them in an uncomfortable situation with his words of friendship and if there was a way to break free from such ties… Her father would know.
For now, her husband listened intently to both sides.
"We need to step up and prove our friendship to the people. Princess Snow has shown her dedication and has had several victories against the Evil Queen. We can certainly benefit from an alliance such as hers, especially since Avonlea had been allies with her father."
"Hear, hear!"
"Yes!"
Yet it was the naysayers that spoke loudly. "We already pledged our alliance to Regina. It would be wrong for us to go back on our word when we promised we would help her."
"At what costs, sir? Does it justify hundreds of people dying at her hands?"
"We don't really know how true it is—"
Then the insults and arguments flew back and forth as the men resumed where they left off—no solutions but a lot of talk.
It was going to be a long meeting.
Before it went further the doors opened as a messenger came running in. Breathlessly, he ran up to Gaston and handed him the note that was sent by pigeon.
"What news is being hailed my husband?" Belle asked as he read the letter.
"It would seem congratulations are in order. Princess Snow and Prince James are expecting a baby," Gaston revealed to the room.
There was a polite round of applause at the news, but it only fueled on the need that Avonlea should realign itself with Snow.
"This could be the sign we need to change," one member said. "An heir for Princess Snow can change the tides and we need to look at the alliance in the long run."
"Indeed. And don't forget about the Curse. The Queen promised she would cast a horrible Curse on the land."
"Yes but it hasn't happened yet. She could have been bluffing."
"Or she's biding her time."
"Or she doesn't mean it."
Belle turned to Gaston and rested her hand on his arm. "Gaston?" she implored. "I agree we need to switch sides. We have to think what's best for Avonlea and your home as well. Whatever we do, Chasse will follow in example. We can't continue to allow the atrocities to occur over and over again."
"And what do you propose, my dear wife, we should do? Regina has magic. Very powerful magic and our only hope that would be equal to her power had escaped. We can't stand against her."
"Perhaps not. But we have to do what is right. We have a duty to our people to protect them," Belle reminded him.
Whatever Gaston was going to say was cut off when the doors blew opened and slammed against the walls. The thunderous roar silenced the room at once as everyone turned to look to see the devil herself come walking in.
With her hands on her hips, the Evil Queen coolly looked around the chamber with a thinly arched brow.
"Oh, do go on. Don't stop on my account," Regina said with a throaty chuckle.
xxXXxx
Present
At long last he was here and Rumple could only stand there staring at the building as if it contained all the answers to life's mysteries behind it. His initial reaction—his gut instinct—was to do the cowardly thing and leave. He found where his son lived and he knew he was alive and well. But Rumple spent far too long making the cowardly decisions and he had to put an end to it. He had to be strong. He had to be brave.
However, his resolve was wavering and he felt himself slowly turning around… only to find Belle and Lily-Rose at his side. His daughter—a ray of bursting sunlight and joy—reached for her Papa's hand and gripped it tightly. Her countenance was so earnest and eyes filled with shining hope and love for the man that was the imp, the Dark One. It didn't matter to her that he at one time had abandoned her for her own good. Like her mother, she lived in the present and it mattered now that he was here.
She loved him and that was all that was important to her… that he loved his family and was where he belonged.
Family.
All Rumple's life, even as a young boy, he wanted a family. Sure the spinsters were kindly enough and treated him well, but they didn't love him as a parent. Then there was Milah, then Bae… His son—the apple of his eye—the only person that gave him the family he wanted. Just the two of them and while Rumple could have been contented with that… his son was plucked away from him too soon because of his fears. He never thought it would be possible to have a family again until Belle entered his life and saved him in so many ways than one.
His family was standing at his side, giving him all the courage and strength and comfort he needed to do this. With them, he could speak to Bae and tell him everything he wanted to say after he so callously let him go in that portal. He would take whatever Bae deemed appropriate for what he had done to him and do whatever he could and needed to prove that his amends were heartfelt and truthful.
"Let's do this," Emma said, shaking him from his thoughts. "The sooner you see him, the sooner this deal is over."
"Tactful as always, Ms. Swann," he replied dryly, but on the inside, Rumple was a jumbled mess. This could go one in two ways, and he could only pray that Bae would hear him out first.
"You can do this Rumple," Belle whispered, looping her arm with his. "We're behind you."
He swallowed hard and his feet began to move on their own volition as they entered the building. Right away, it was evident that this wasn't the Ritz. The lobby (if you could call it that) was drab and old, not to mention a bit on the dirty side. It brought shame to Rumple that his son had to have struggled on his own all these years while he lived in the lap of luxury thanks to Regina's curse.
"It's all right Rumple," Belle said reassuringly, as if reading his thoughts. "I'm sure the apartments are in better condition. Besides, if he's anything like you… he has his place in tip-top shape filled with all sorts of interesting knick-knacks."
He nodded, not trusting himself to speak at the moment. Moving away from his True Love, he limped to the panel where all of the names of the residents were listed. The only way to enter was for them to buzz you in, but even that to Rumple, wasn't much of a security system.
As he searched the names for any indication that it could be Bae, he saw the Savior standing next to him out of the corner of his eye.
"So…" she dragged out. "Anything sticks out?"
"While I make it my business to know names, I'm afraid none of these mean anything to me. Bae could be any of them," he said in frustration.
"I guess Baelfire would be too obvious," Henry added. "Although, I think it's a pretty cool name."
"Yeah but not something someone would want to advertise in this day and age," Emma said. "It's high up on the list with Kal-El and Audio Science."
"What?" Rumple asked, confused as to what the Hell she was talking about.
"Well, they all seem to have a name beside them, except that one," Belle said, pointing to the empty slot. "It could be him."
"Or it's empty," her fiancé responded.
"No, no. Belle's got a point," Emma agreed. "Most people who don't want to be found won't list their name."
"That's stupid," Rumple muttered. "In that case, everyone would know who you are."
"Look. I know about these types of things. I've spent my life finding people who didn't want to be found and this is the M.O. I've come across many times. I stake my life that that one is your man." Crossing her arms over, Emma arched her brow and challenged him to defy her.
"Try it Rumple," Belle insisted. "The worse it could be empty. But you won't know until you try."
"Yeah Papa! Try!" Lily-Rose chirped, hoping to convince him.
Yet, he couldn't help but hesitate. If it did prove to be Bae, then what? Would he let him in or would he shut him out?
But that was the point, wasn't it? To give it a try. If Bae refused to see him, then he could come back again. And again. And again. He would keep coming back until his son was ready to speak to him or get annoyed until he had no choice, but either way… it would get him to speak to his boy.
Licking his lips, Rumple extended a finger and pressed the button. The speaker crackled and his mouth was opened, but no words could come to him. He froze.
Rolling her eyes, Emma stepped in. "UPS. I have a package for you."
The speaker went silent and Henry interrupted the silence. "Maybe you should have said we're Fed-Ex."
Before anyone could say something, they heard a thud and feet running above them. Emma's jaw dropped. "He's running."
Quickly, the blonde dashed out of there with the others at her heels. They looked to the fire escape where a figure with a hood over his face was climbing down. He jumped to the cement and began to take off running.
Emma didn't break a stride or miss a beat as she went after him. Rumple longed to go after his son, but his crippled leg prevented him from such a task. Belle, worried, grasped his arm.
"She'll catch him," she said. "You know her. She will find him and bring him back to us."
"I know. Gods, I know," he could only reply. But the question remains… will he come back with her willingly?
TBC…
Uh-oh. You know what this means, right? I do want to add another quick disclaimer that some lines were from the episodes "Manhattan" and "Dreamy" but tweaked just a bit to fit in with this AU. As for Henry's crack about Fed-Ex… I loved that line so I had to keep it in here somewhere. You know the drill. Go on and drop a line and tell me what you think!
