"That's your house?!" Belle gasped as she stood behind Rumple back in the bushes, gawking at the enormous castle that stood before her. She couldn't fathom the sheer size of it. It made the castle she grew up in look like a small cottage. They were high up in the mountains, hidden far away from everyone else. It would have taken them weeks to travel there by foot, but Rumple had used magic to take them there. He had transported them a little ways from the castle, needing to scout the place out before they could walk in the front door. It was his home yes, but after King Maurice had taken him prisoner, he had also seized all of his belongings. Rumplestiltskin had to make sure his home was vacated before taking Belle there for fear she may get taken away from him. He had control over his powers now, so any of King Maurice's guards that still lurked wouldn't be a problem, but he still wasn't willing to take a chance.
He looked over at her nonchalantly, "Yes, my Belle, is it not big enough for you?"
"Well no, I just…I don't know…it seems almost too big," she said modestly.
Her comment made Rumplestiltskin laugh; he couldn't see how she could really feel that way, "Most certainly not. A king must live like one, and so should a queen. You are my queen now, and nothing will ever be good enough."
"Rum, I don't need a giant castle. There's not really much I want. As long as we're together, that's what will make me happy."
Rumplestiltskin couldn't help but frown. He thought she'd be more ecstatic after finding out she'd live in such a place. Yet, her reaction reminded him much like Bae's. When him and his son were still together, he had procured the castle to try to make Bae happy, but the boy had brushed it off, saying words similar to Belle's.
Belle noticed his unease, and she didn't want him to feel like she was ungrateful. She just wanted him to see what really mattered. She reached over and squeezed his hand, "But the castle looks lovely. I'm can't wait to see inside."
Her comment brought him back from his thoughts, becoming his cheery self once again. He looked back toward the castle. "You will soon enough. Meanwhile, we need to stay back and watch for any sign of others. I don't want to take you down there until I know for certain you will be out of danger."
Belle nodded, finding a spot where she was a comfortable as she could be in the brush, and waited for further instructions. They stayed in their hiding spot for a long while watching and waiting for anything to happen, or for anyone to appear. Yet, no one ever did. The castle seemed silent, looking like it had been abandoned. Rumplestiltskin felt it odd. Surely the King would have had some guards there, even if just to wait to see if he would bring Belle there? Rumplestiltskin knew something wasn't right, he just couldn't put his finger on what exactly was wrong.
"Why are there no guards Rum? You said my father had seized your house. Surely he would keep a lookout in case we came here."
"Yes, it's all very strange. I don't know, but there isn't another living thing around for miles. I don't know why he has no lookout, but still something is off. Yet, I can since no magic either." Rumplestiltskin's worry was clearly evident on his face, but he thought it would be safe to venture down to the castle. "Come, Belle. I think we'll be fine."
Belle nodded and her hand interlocked with his before she followed him down to the entrance.
The closer they got to the Dark Castle the bigger it seemed to grow and the more Belle gawked at it, almost causing her to trip over her own feet. She never fell though with Rumplestiltskin keeping her balance as he held onto her.
He became more cautious as they neared the front doors, instructing Belle to stay behind him, but keep a hold of him. Still there was no one to be seen or heard. He expected guards to rush out once they presented themselves on the front grounds, but still nothing.
Walking up to the massive double doors, they opened automatically as if expecting him. 'It must be the magic,' Belle thought to herself.
Stepping into the entranceway, they stopped waited and listened. All was quiet, so Rumplestiltskin felt they could continue, and he led Belle up the stairs and into the main dining hall.
The first thing Belle noticed was the musty smell and the lack of light. She could barely see where she was going. If it wasn't for Rumple, she was certain she would have been flat on her face by now. "Rum? Can you light some candles?" she asked.
Her question was answered when light came on, but it was still very dim. Yet, it was enough to see by. Looking around the room, they saw it was completely trashed. It was obvious the place had been ransacked, and even though Belle didn't know what Rumplestiltskin owned, she was sure that anything valuable had been taken. She didn't have long to look though, as it only took Rumplestiltskin less than a minute to use magic to send everything back to where it belonged. The magic didn't take care of the musty smell though, one that told her the castle had been closed up for a long time.
Rumplestiltskin looked over at Belle and offered her a reassuring smile, "You stay here sweetheart while I secure the castle. You'll be safe as long as you stay in this room."
Belle nodded and took it upon herself to explore the room after Rumplestiltskin went off to inspect the castle. The room was huge, with a fireplace on one wall and large windows covered in thick curtains that blocked out all light. She wondered why Rumplestiltskin didn't open them. It was broad daylight outside, and the sun would bring in more light than the candles did. She made a point to remember to ask him about it.
The many trinkets attracted her attention and she made her way around the room to look at them. They were all displayed in different manners, some on pedestals, others on tables, with intricate tapestries hanging along the walls. They were unlike anything she had ever seen before.
The room itself was eerie, and she felt like there were eyes on her, even though she was alone. But her curiosity kept her worries at bay, especially when she noticed the books. They lined the fireplace, and she found herself wandering over there first to see what they were. She ran her hands along the old leather bindings, eventually finding one that stood out to her.
Settling into the nearby leather chair by the fireplace, she opened the book and became enthralled by it. She didn't even notice when Rumple came up behind her and tilted the chair back, where he could look her in the face, causing her to squeal. "I should have known you'd go right for the books," he joked.
She smirked at him, remembering how he liked to do this when she sat at the fireplace in her old room. "Yes well, I'm struggling. Perhaps if there was more light in here I'd be able to read better."
"Well dearest, it's called the Dark Castle for a reason."
"But can't you at least provide me with a little more? I'm not accustomed to the dark."
"You'll grow use to it in time. This is how I like my home."
Belle tilted her head and squinted, "Yes, but you said yourself, It's our home now. That means we compromise."
Rumplestiltskin let out barking laughter as he let the chair fall back to all fours, almost causing Belle to flip forward. Before she could regain herself, he was there in front of the chair, sneering, "I prefer darkness, so that's how it is going to stay."
Belle knew she wasn't going to change his mind, at least not with simple reasoning. She had to come up with a different strategy. He was in a playful mood right now, and that meant a good mood, so she could use that to her advantage. She started with changing the subject, "Did you find anyone else in the castle?"
"No. There is absolutely no one else here, there hasn't been for a while." What he failed to mention was that something still didn't feel right even though they were alone. He wasn't quite sure what was causing it, but he would figure it out soon enough. However, it wasn't enough to feel they were in danger.
"So, does that mean we are safe? Can we stay here?"
"I've cast a few protection spells on the castle. You have nothing to worry about." Rumplestiltskin stood, moving aside so Belle could get up from the chair.
Belle's expression was one of relief, as she got to her feet.
"Let's go to the kitchen to prepare dinner."
Belle was taken aback, "Dinner? The castle has been abandoned for a long time. How do you know there will be any food in there?"
"You forget dearest, I'm the most powerful sorcerer in all the lands. There most definitely is food in the kitchen."
As Rumplestiltskin turned to lead the way, Belle moved to follow him, but as she walked around the chair, her foot got caught up in one of legs, causing her to go face first into the floor.
Rumple was at her side in an instant, all worry, as he slowly helped her up and examined her for injuries.
Belle rubbed the side of her face as she accepted Rumple's assistance. "I'm sorry Rum! I was paying attention, but the light…I thought I stepped around the chair, but I didn't realize the legs curved outward…" She spoke fast and in an apologetic manner.
Rumple reached up to stroke hair and calm her, "Belle, it's not your fault."
Belle sat up and rubbed her ankle that had met with the chair.
Rumple reached out, "Here let me heal it…"
Belle instantly jerked back, "No…"
"No? Why not?"
Belle sniffled, glanced at him and spoke seriously, "Because if there was just a little more light, this may have been prevented. Rum, couldn't you add just a tad more? You know how clumsy I am. I know it won't change that, but not being able to see…well…"
"Yes, yes, I understand. If I agree to more light, will you agree to let me heal you?"
Belle bit her bottom lip as she thought a moment, "Ok, if you add more light to the castle, I'll let you heal any of my wounds."
Rumplestiltskin seemed to relax when she agreed to his deal. He snapped his fingers, causing more candles to line the walls, illuminating the room. It was still pretty dim, but it was much better than before. Belle leaned forward and placed a gentle kiss on his cheek, "Thank you, Rum."
"Yes," he said anxiously, "Now your ankle!"
Belle pulled back, biting her lip again, and trying to suppress a smile.
He looked at her for a moment, confused to why she was smiling. When she couldn't hold it in any longer, and had to cover her mouth to stifle a giggle, he knew he had been tricked. Rumple's eyes widened as it registered with him that it was all just an act. "Why you…you're not hurt are you?"
Belle let out another giggle as she shook her head.
"You deceived me dearest! You broke our deal, so I'm removing the light!"
Before he could do anything, Belle climbed partially into his lap and got close to his face. "But I didn't. I said 'if you add more light, I'll let you heal any of my wounds.' I never specified…"
Rumplestiltskin gritted his teeth together in an effort to keep it together. She had fooled him to get what she wanted!
Belle inched closer, "Now are you going to take away the light and be the one to break our deal?"
He scowled. She had cornered him. She knew he never broke deals. There was nothing he could do. Nothing except honor their agreement. But he wasn't going to give in without punishment. However, he would play it cool for now, so he could surprise her later. He calmed and spoke lovingly and honestly, "I guess I've already let some light into my life, what could a little more hurt?" He was referring to Belle as the light, and he hoped she knew that.
Belle beamed, finally leaning all the way in bringing her lips to his. Their kiss was sweet but it lasted only a few moments, ending when Rumple hoisted Belle up to her feet. "Now time to eat!"
Belle agreed and followed him into the kitchen, awing at everything along the way. The kitchen was small and cozy. There was a pantry in the back, with several dish cabinets along the walls. A door in the very back led to the outside, and Belle made a note to explore later. When she opened up the pantry, she hadn't expected to find much, if anything, but she gawked in astonishment at the assortment of foods that filled it. Belle faced Rumple, "I'm afraid I'm not much of a cook."
"No worries. The castle will do everything for you." He said as he magically sent food over to the stove, which was now roaring with fire.
Belle nodded, but she felt bad. She wanted to be able to cook and not rely on magic for everything. "Still, I'd like to learn."
Rumplestiltskin smiled, "Then I shall bring you some books that will teach you."
His promise was enough for Belle. She would have to use the magic for now, but eventually she'd be able to do it on her own. And of course, the thought of new books had her reeling.
After dinner, they went back to the main room and sat by the fireplace just to enjoy each other's company. Belle was insanely curious about her new home, ready to explore more than anything, but unsure of how to ask Rumple if she could go off on her own to look. He said the castle was secure, but that didn't mean he would let her out of his sight just yet. It was getting late anyways, and she was certain they would be off to bed soon. Keeping her curiosity at bay for now, she decided she would ask him later when he seemed more sure of himself, and she could be certain he felt nothing would happen to her.
"Come, I'll show you to your room." Rumple commanded as he watched Belle yawn for the tenth time. He stood helping her up, and led her through the corridors.
"My room? Are we not staying in the same one?" Belle asked worriedly. She had grown accustomed to sleeping with her husband; she didn't want to be separated from him.
"Of course we are, but I don't think you want to stay in the one I used. It's…a tad in disarray."
Belle narrowed her eyes at him, her curiosity growing. She linked her arm through his stopping him briefly, "Show me and let me decide for myself. I want to know you better; I'm part of your life now. You don't need to shield me from your past."
"Very well," he said giving in, "Just remember I warned you."
She laughed while letting him guide her through the castle to their room. It seemed to go on and on. There were so many rooms, and she hoped Rumplestiltskin would let her explore.
As they came into the west wing, there were two large double doors that loomed taller than Belle had ever seen. It was darker in that area of the castle, and as Rumple had kept his word lighting everything as they walked along, he didn't move at all to bring more light to this area. She could tell it was because he felt ashamed, so she wasn't going to push the issue.
The doors creaked as they opened, and Belle took a hesitant step into the room, certain Rumple was going to stop her. But when he didn't she walked all the way in and looked around.
Rumplestiltskin watched as she explored. She was extremely quiet as she walked around the sitting room taking everything in. She was so expressionless, that he feared what she was going to say when she finally spoke up. Surely she would hate it and demand to sleep somewhere else. In a way he hoped so.
Her steps were slow and steady as she walked through the room. She took the time to really examine everything, her fingers running across broken furniture, overturned books, and torn paintings. As she moved to the curtains that hung across the balcony, she reached up to move the tattered rags away so she could see outside. She moved out onto the balcony, looking up at the moon that shone brightly above.
Out of everything that was broken and shattered in that room, nothing was more shattered than her heart. She couldn't imagine what Rumplestiltskin had gone through to cause him so much pain. Did all of it come from losing his son? That couldn't be the entirety of it, he had to be incredibly lonely as well. There had to be more she didn't know, but this wasn't the time to ask. If she wasn't careful, he would withdraw and try to push her away.
Hearing footsteps behind her, she knew Rumplestiltskin had joined her on the balcony. She turned to look at him, with a small frown on her face. He looked at her with regret, feeling he should have never brought her to his room. "Belle, I shouldn't have brought you here."
Belle moved where she completely faced him and put her hands on his shoulders, "No, Rum, don't say that. I know you've been through a lot. But I'm here now."
Rumple nodded but his gaze was shifted away.
Belle stepped closer and smiled brightly, tilting her head where she could see his eyes, "Like you said earlier, you've let light into your life."
That comment seemed to cheer Rum up, and his look turned to one of mischievousness. Belle cocked her eyes at him, wondering what he was thinking, but she didn't have to wonder long. He scooped her up into his arms bridal style, and leered at her, "Yes, and you are going to pay for that little deception dearest."
Before she could respond, he whisked them to the bed, flinging her onto it, with himself on top of her immediately. Belle hadn't even had time to take in the bed, as large as it was, because Rumplestiltskin's lips met the side of her neck, distracting her from everything. Their clothes were gone before she could even register what was happening. Still she wasn't complaining. If this was what he considered punishment, then she wouldn't object.
He had planned on letting her rest. They had had an exhausting couple of days and this was the first time they would get to sleep in a proper bed since leaving Belle's castle. But after her little stunt earlier and the thought of her lying in bed-his bed-made it hard for him to hold back, and it wasn't long before they were curled up cozily and going off to dreamland.
a/n: I actually split this chapter in two, so Yzma comes in the next one. It's mostly written so you won't have to wait long. If there ever is any character/movie/tv etc. you want me to include, just let me know and I'll give it my best shot to work it into the story. Thanks for reading!