The next stage – final workings
Tintagel, UK – Monday
It'd been an interesting few days for the Swan-Jones family since they'd left Storybrooke.
Merlin had been true to his word, and the portal he'd laid down just outside Storybrooke Harbour had taken the Jolly Roger all the way from Maine to less than a mile from the coast of Cornwall, a county on the western tip of England. A journey that on any other vessel would've taken up to ten days even on a modern cruise ship; but in this case, one day! And as they'd left the protection of the magical shroud that'd shielded the centuries old brig, keeping it invisible until two minutes ago, Emma was surprised when, as they sailed into the little port, there was already a small reception committee ready to meet them. Merlin's doing, no doubt?
But everything had gone smoothly. She soon discovered from talking to some of the men and women who'd helped them disembark, were people who the Sorcerer already knew, having previously transported them from other realms, mostly magical, to start new lives here. And as they sat in an exceptionally cute Cornish pub over dinner, with Hope safely tucked up in bed, Merlin outlined the plan.
"Tomorrow morning, two cars will come and take us to a larger town, where we'll be taking the first of two trains to London. We'll be picking up a private ambulance and car that I've hired. Once we get to the hospital, we'll then collect Killian's brother and take him somewhere suitable to assess properly, for treatment if necessary. All being well, you'll be taking young Master Jones back with you on Thursday morning, Friday latest."
"Just like that?"Emma could already see nothing but pitfalls ahead."First, how are you going to get them to release him in the first place? Isn't he supposed to be terminally ill? I can't see them letting him out that easily, and it's not like we have any magic here to wipe memories or teleport him. What if he's unconscious or in a coma? You seriously expect him to ride in an ambulance for God knows how long, then travel back a ship? The journey alone could possibly kill him!"
"We should be able to keep him stable, but he'll be treated before you even get back onboard your husband's vessel. I've already made arrangements to have him driven to Glastonbury, where there's access to a hidden town, similar to Storybrooke, magical, only larger. Then we'll see what we're dealing with."
"So, the legendary town really does exist?" Killian looked surprised. "I know these lands fairly well. I was even born not too far from Glastonbury before my parents left for the coast and better prospects. I've heard all the stories of course, even read most of them, but assumed that's all they were. Legends."
"Jones, I'm surprised at you! I'd have thought you of all people, the legendary Captain Hook, would know most legends have some basis in fact? It exists all right. I should know, I lived there for over a year before Camelotcame into its heyday. It's existed long before even the Romans conquered this land."
"Guys, can you stop talking in riddles?" Emma was getting more frustrated. "I get in, Killian's lived hundreds of years, and you for thousands. But some of us haven't? What is this magical place and how come I've never heard of it?"
"You have, Emma. It's a place where white and healing magic reign supreme. It's written about in countless story books the world over, and it's where the Nostos water in the bottle which I brought with me comes from. It's called Avalon".
Back Bay, Boston, Mass
"Heck papa, this place is seriously impressive!"
Neal looked out of the luxury apartment over the Charles River, situated in one of Boston's most wealthy and prestigious areas."I mean, Beacon Street? This must have set you back a small fortune! I guess weaving all that gold from straw over the years came in useful, eh?"He grinned at his father, who stood beside him looking out the panoramic window, the sun started to set over the north of the city."Not exactly slumming it, are you?"
"It's just a base, my boy. Albeit a nice one."
"A nine-million-dollar base! The apartment looks brilliant. And six bedrooms? Around here?"
"Well I'm not immortal now, am I? Besides, Celeste and her daughter will be staying regularly, though she also has a place of her own just outside New York, close to her office. I personally think should take the corner bedroom for yourself? It's got the best views; then there's one for Gideon, and a couple of guest rooms for Henry and whoever. It should do."
"Do you think any of your old Storybrooke stuff's gonna fit in a place like this?"
"Unlikely, though we can put most of it into storage or just sell it. I'll be looking for a second home in the countryside shortly, probably the Catskill Mountains soon enough, so we may be able to use some it there. You said Belle's taken what she wants?"
"She hasn't taken that much, and we divided it up. Dove's already put it in storage somewhere near Portland. They've starting to look for properties downtown, where she can set up a book shop she talked about."
"They?"
"Snow White's with her. She's also left Storybrooke for good, or so she says?"Neal hesitated to mention Ruby Lucas. It was after all, Belle's three year-long infidelity with the woman that made him end the marriage. Why rake over old coals?"Snow wants to set up a small hotel and café. Something a bit more upmarket than Granny's? They've already found a decent place not far from the port, so as there's a couple of shops attached to it, Belle might buy it with her."
His father nodded, deep in thought."Does she seem happy to you?"
"Not really. Though to be fair, her father did just die the moment we got there."
"Sir Maurice?" Rumple turned, surprised. He'd always detested the man he regarded as an ignorant oaf. The man who'd repeatedly asked Belle to leave him, and never once acknowledged Gideon as his grandchild."I'm sorry to hear that. How's she coping?"
"As well as can be expected. She said she was never that close to him after she left with you the first time, but still felt guilty for how she treated him over the years. I think having to cope with all the removals and stuff this week was a useful distraction. The funeral was on Friday. I also met Merlin. And your old mate Jeff? I gather you're still in touch?"
"Jefferson's the only one, apart from Henry obviously. He rang me yesterday and is planning to come see me once I'm settled. So yes, he told me about the Dagger."
"Hopefully you'll never see it again. Do you still feel any sort of pull to get back to your magic?"
"It was never mine but the Dark One's. Fortunately, I haven't seen anything of it since Athens."
"Athens? You never told me?"
"It was the day Henry and I visited The Temple of Olympian Zeus? Though most of it was only ruins there were still the faint remains of ancient magic there. I saw him, or I should sayit,in my reflection in a bathroom mirror. It seemed to be decaying, probably from being parted from the dagger so long. But I never want to see it again quite frankly. So no, I don't miss it."
"Well just for the record I think Merlin's already sent the dagger not just to another realm, but to another timeline. One with no magic, apparently."
"Probably for the best, though I'm sure it'd probably show up again if I were to reappear in Storybrooke. Now, I really don't want to dredge up the past Bae, it's far too depressing. Tell me about Gideon? What have you and your brother been up to sine you left?"
"Only if you tell me what's been happening with you and Celeste first?" He grinned. "What's the chances she's going to wind up being my next stepmother?"
He rolled his eyes. It had been an ongoing subject.
Portland, Mass
"So, it's agreed then? We make the offer?"
Snow, Ruby and Belle had inspected the larger of the three shortlisted properties earlier that morning, together with two more. And now, exhausted, they sat down around the dinner table at the rental, white wines in hand, to reach their final decision.
"The main dining room's twice the size of Granny's, and there's a decent kitchen at the back. Plus, it's right smack bang on the road to the harbour, so good for passing trade. What's not to like? I think it's just about perfect."
"I have to agree…"Snow smiled, picking up the bottle and refilling everyone's glasses."And the bedrooms seem to be in a decent condition as it's only been empty a year, so I don't think it'll take too long to get them ready. Plus, that annexe at the back is more than big enough to divide up between the three of us, plus three spares. But like it or not, it's still too expensive unless Belle were to come in with us and takes on the shops on the corner? So, no pressure Belle,"she smirked at the former librarian,"but I guess it all comes down to you!"
"Well I have to admit, I like it. But strictly speaking, I only need one of the shops? Still, I suppose I could take always take out the middle wall and make it bigger? Giddy said he also likes it, and it's part of his money's going into it."Belle seemed to be debating it with herself."So all things considered, yeah alright, I'm in."
"Yay!"The trio cheered, clinking glasses, Ruby standing."Brilliant! Let's go celebrate?"
"Bit early yet Rubes."Belle cautioned."They've still got to accept the offer."
"Yeah, but they will if we get Snow to make it? I saw the way that taller guy was looking at her. He was really keen on her, I know it!"
"Nonsense,"Snow dismissed it, waving her hand away."He was just being friendly, that's all."
"No, she's right,"Belle chipped in, smirking."I agree, he definitely fancies you."Snow still rolled her eyes."What's up Snow, aren't you into flirting with men anymore? Are you just going to be sticking to women from now on?"
For the last two nights since they arrived in Portland, Snow had wound up sharing her bed, the widest in the rental, with both of them, the trio sandwiched together before falling asleep. It was just for comfort, companionship, with no sex or anything else involved whatsoever; and everyone kept their nightwear on. But for Snow it'd been reassuring to wake up between her friends, with Belle virtually in her lap and Ruby's protective arms around her. It briefly crossed her mind whether it'd be worth suggesting they have some fun sometime. But no, she knew that if there'd been any tension caused between them by any misunderstandings, it could jeopardise her chances of moving on with her life.
"Of course not, I still like men!"She saw Belle's sceptical look."I do! It's just that…well…after David, I don't want to date any man, or woman for that matter, for the foreseeable future. Or let any of them get ideas, that's all. I just-"
"Hey, you don't need to justify yourself to me?"Belle raised her palms, surrendering the point as Ruby chuckled."I'm still raw from the breakup of my own marriage! I get it, men are off the menu till further notice".
"Yeah?"Now Ruby was the sceptic. "Don't remember you saying that to Jerard when you were getting it on with them, eh Belle French?"She started to laugh."Speaking personally, that guy certainly restored my faith in men. And let's face it, he was a monster between the sheets too, which kinda helps? I didn't see you holding back with him, either." Belle rolled her eyes, trying not to smirk as the other two started chuckling.
"That was different! It was just sex. Great sex I'll admit! I've never done anything like before."
"And I'd never seen you like that. You were on fire, Lady Belle! I certainly wasn't complaining."
"Don't exaggerate. Listening to you, Snow will think I've become some sort of crazed nymphomaniac!"
Snow shook her head."Far from it. The woman who took care of me last week when I was upset, was far from crazed. She was tender and loving at a difficult time; and I'll always be grateful."She reached out her hand, Belle taking and squeezing it as she returned the smile.
"You took care of me, too."
It was a small exchange, but Ruby picked up on the looks between them."Hang on a minute? You two?" She recalled what Snow had told her, about moving into the other woman's home while she was emptying it to leave."Did you two get together?"
"In a manner of speaking."Belle's smile only broadened, eyes twinkling."We were there for one another when we needed it."
"Wow!"The realisation took Ruby by surprise. Her best friends having sex? What would that mean for her own future? Would she become the odd one out? A third wheel in a burgeoning relationship? "I certainly wasn't expecting that!"
"What's wrong?"
"Nothing. I just...are you two wanting to take it further?"
"Rubes, Snow and I aren't in any sort of relationship, and neither of us is looking for one. Surely you of all people should understand? Yes, we got together, and it was lovely. But neither of us have any expectations. And as for sex; well, it's not as if you and Snow didn't get together in the past, is it? And you and me more recently?"
Snow, having known her old friend so long, recognised where her concerns were leading."Rubes, if you count the old country, I've been married to David for over forty-three years. So, I guess now I'm kind of…exploring my nature? I may well wind up with another man one day. Or even another woman. But I don't want to think about all that right now. Maybe I'm becoming more like you when it comes to things like that? "
The former waitress nodded, saying nothing, reaching for the bottle to pour more. Then her phone buzzed as another message came in. She pulled it out to read it.
"Something I forgot to tell you both. A week ago, I got a call from Merlin saying he thought I should meet someone from the old realm. As in, the Enchanted Forest? He said his name's Marcus, and he'll probably be able to put us in touch with more people who've 'jumped' into this world and are now living over here permanently. He didn't have time to say much about him, only that he's a really good guy, with a lot of connections."She looked back at the phone."Well this Marcus guy just texted, asking to meet up?"
"You could bring him over here?"Snow suggested." Okay look, I'll go 'flirt' with Colin, the realty rep in the morning, if it makes you feel better? If he gets awkward, I'll ignore everything I just said and invite him out for a drink. Maybe see if I've still got any old feminine charms left? Belle, maybe you should speak to Neal again about the money? Because we're going to be needing it pretty soon!"
Tuesday
Snow's offer was accepted. And with it the start of a whole new business venture. A boutique, upmarket hotel, with a café on the ground floor, plus two empty retail units on the corner, waiting for Belle to prepare them for her bookshop.Once it'd been confirmed later that afternoon, Neal came through and wired the money, as promised, and he'd also offered to help where he could. Although they'd only paid the deposit so far while all the legals were finalised, the agents released the keys early for them to spend time in there, working through the long process of turning it back into a business.
And now, as they sat in what would become the main dining area, Ruby and Snow agreed the priorities. First would be their own living area, so they could give up renting the house. Basically, a large extension, taking up about a quarter of the whole property. With plenty of bedrooms and living space for all of them, plus two bathrooms and two living rooms, so they wouldn't all be getting on top of one another. Next priority was the café, as they needed to start bringing in money before too long. The hotel part, for which they still hadn't decided on a name, was going to take another three months before they were ready to as for the shops, Belle would be managing that independently.
And as they now sat discussing paint colours, fabrics and swatches with a young local painter and decorator Belle had found and hired, the little bell above the front door clanged.
"SURPRISE!"
A familiar voice, to Ruby, rang out as two sets of eyes turned to the newcomer. A tall, chestnut-haired woman, tanned and wearing tight summer shorts and an even tighter lemon t-shirt.
"LIVVY!"
Ruby jumped up from the table to race across the room to her as Snow watched, virtually launching herself at the stranger, gathering her in a tight hug."So glad you could come! God, I've missed you!"
The newcomer sniggered, resting her cheek against her friend's, hugging her tightly before finally pulling her head back, beaming at her and pecking her lips. Though they still didn't let go of one another."I missed you too Rubes, more than you can imagine. I know Jer has, too."
"How is he? Why didn't he come with you? There's nothing wrong, is there?"
"Quite the opposite, and he sends his love. He should be leaving Havana today to gradually head up here. He reckons it'll only take about three weeks, if he doesn't stop as often as we did getting there."
As she spoke, she didn't seem to notice someone else open the front door, closing it behind her as she grinned at the pair, Belle having spotted Olivia walking past the empty shop window.
"Do I get one of those?" She was now beside them as Olivia finally released their friend.
"Definitely..."Olivia's face changed from grinning like a Cheshire cat, to something a little more serious. "Hello again, Lady Belle." She looked her up and down. "I've missed you too. Come here?"
Belle stepped into her, her arms moving around her waist as the other woman reached around her shoulders. It was slower, and somehow more intense than the hug she'd given Ruby. And instead of resting her cheek, Olivia instead went straight for the lips, unashamedly pressing them against the bookworm's as she held her. Belle, far from pulling away, just mirrored her, their lips slowly moulding together, oblivious of their audience. To Snow, it seemed more like two lovers reconnecting, rather than friends reuniting. It was clear, to her at least, that not only were these two closer than the woman been with Ruby; but there seemed to be something more. The newcomer seemed to radiate even more happiness when she spoke to Belle, taking a hand to caress her cheek as she kissed her. Whatever relationship they'd had on that boat, romantic or otherwise, had clearly been intense! And neither seemed in the least bit concerned that they were being watched. Finally, the kiss ended, and the taller woman leant back.
"I'm sorry to hear about your dad? It must've been a hell of a shock to go back to that."
"It was. But at least I saw him just before he died. And we forgave each other."
"I'm glad, but I wish I'd been there to support you, even if I couldn't have done much else."
Belle slowly started to peel herself away from the taller woman. "Luckily, I had someone special who helped me get through it, apart from Giddy." She turned to introduce the former princess. "Liv, I'd like you to meet our very dear friend, and one of my new business partners, Mary-Margaret?"
The chestnut beauty finally looked at her, almost having not noticed her until now. "The one in New York, who had the transplants?" Snow nodded, giving her a cautious smile. "Hair 'as black as ebony, lips as red as the rose, and skin as white as snow'? Yeah, no wonder Rubes kept calling you Snow White. I can see it - you're drop-dead gorgeous!" She offered up her hand to shake. "Hello Mary-Margaret, I'm Olivia, though just call me Livvy? I'm-"
"One of the couple who took my friends sailing, all the way down to Cuba?" Snow beamed back. "Thank you for the lovely compliments, and yes, I've heard a lot about you too Livvy. All the wonderful places you went to? Personally, I've always wanted to see Havana, so I'm jealous. Welcome to Portland, and what's going to become our new home before too long, hopefully? Please call me Mary, or even Snow, if you insist?" She shook her hand warmly. "Rubes told me just how well you took care of them both."
The smirk, and the emphasis, left Olivia wondering just what she'd told them."Really?"
"Oh yes." The way she waggled her eyebrows confirmed it. "Rubes and I don't tend to keep secrets from one another."
She smiled at the woman who still hadn't let go of her hand. Ruby's best friend and the woman she'd gone all the way back from the trip to visit in hospital, who was supposed to have been dying? Now she seemed in the peak of health. And she'd known enough women in her time to recognise signs of someone who could be interested in her in other ways?
"I like that. I hope we'll become good friends, too."
"I'm sure we will. How long are you here for?"
The Storybrooke Inn
"ROLAND?" Regina gasped in shock the moment she saw Little John come in through the inn door, carrying her stepson in his arms. He seemed to be injured. "WHAT'S HAPPENED?"
"He fell out of one of the trees while we were working on a rope bridge," said Friar Tuck right behind him, carrying what looked like the boy's rucksack. "His dad already told him to stay clear, as they weren't fixed yet. He hit a nasty stump on the way down, by the look of it. He landed pretty bad and cut his leg. His shoulder may be injured, too."
"Bring him into the back, please John?" Regina led the way, opening the doors ahead to let them through. "And put him on the blue sofa? Gently, please."
John did as asked, carrying him as though he was light as a feather while Roland groaned loudly, clearly injured. But how badly? As the gentle giant laid him down, Regina knelt beside him to check the injury.
"Ow!" He cried out in obvious pain. "Mamma, it really hurts!" He flinched when Regina moved her hand closer to a tear on the upper right leg of his jeans. "Make the pain go away? Please?"
"I'll be as quick as I can, my love. Now, hold still and let me see?" She cautiously parted the tear, to reveal a bright red cut in his upper thigh, with something stuck in it and clearly bleeding. Henry had had a similar accident in the past so without hesitating, she pulled up her sleeves, preparing to draw down her magic. Unfortunately, the first thing to reveal itself was the magic blocking cuff.
Dammit!
"Sorry Roland, but I'm afraid I'm going to have to do this the old-fashioned way. "She looked up at Robin's best friend. "John, I saw a first aid kit in the bar? And sone scissors?"
"I'm on it," Tuck answered for him, walking back out to get it.
"Thanks. John, do you know where his father's gone?"
"Down by the lake with Gilbert and David Nolan talking about something. Alan's already gone to fetch him."
"Good. Now then Rolly, I'm afraid I'm going to have to tear these jeans open, or take them off you, to get to that rather nasty cut you've got under there? So, try to keep still while I-"
"ROLLY?"A new voice rang out from the doorway, Robin appearing, seeing his son lying there and going straight to him. "Alan told me you fell?"
"Yeah. I'm sorry papa, I climbed up that big cedar, even though you asked me not to go up it? The rope was slippery, and it gave way, and I landed really bad."
"Robin, he's got a rather nasty cut on his thigh…"Regina added. "Even without my magic I can still clean the wound, but it looks a little deep? I think we may need to get home to hospital."
"You're right. Let's just-"But as he spoke, David Nolan rushed into in the room.
"I heard! Bad luck, Rolly. I've just called someone at the hospital, and she says she's free at the moment, so should be with us very shortly."
She?
But before she could ask, Regina, even with her blocking cuff on, could feel an unmistakably strong magnetic pull of teleportation magic being used somewhere close. Someone's disapparated! Her obvious question was answered when she then heard a yell from outside. A woman's voice, asking for something? David stepped out of the room and yelled back, and a minute later a tall, slim blonde appeared, carrying what looked like a medical bag.
"Hello everyone! "She scanned the room, looking at the adults staring back at her, before spotting the boy on the sofa. "Oh dear, what seems to be the problem?"
"Hi Anna," Robin answered, still on his knees in front of the sofa. "Thanks for coming so quick. It's Roland, our son. He's fallen from a tree and cut himself rather badly?"
"Oh, poor thing!" As she drew closer, Robin pulled back and she dropped down to her knees, taking his place right next to Regina, in front of the boy. "My big brother was forever climbing things he shouldn't, and getting himself hurt? Definitely a boy thing…"As she gave him a sympathetic smile, Regina was able to take a close look at her. Even she had to admit the young doctor was surprisingly beautiful. Almost model material. She had the sort of smile that could warm any room as she brought a hand close to the tear in the jeans, looking inside just as Regina had.
"Ooh yes, that's nasty! Right, Roland, or shall I call you Rolly?"He nodded. "I'm Annabelle, though just call me Anna like my friends? First, I need to get those jeans off you. But before I do, do you have any underwear on? I don't want to embarrass you."
As he nodded again, David looking to the other men. "I guess that's probably our cue to go gents? Let's give them some privacy. "John and Tuck led the way back out to the main bar, leaving Roland alone with Anna and his parents.
"Now then, let's see?" Anna waved a hand and Roland's torn jeans magically disappeared, leaving him lying in just his underpants, exposing the still-bleeding wound. "Oh yes, that does look a bit nasty. And it seems there's dirt or something still inside there? Okay, this is what we'll do," she turned her face to look straight at Regina, still watching silently only inches away. "I'm going to use cleansing magic on you first, which'll remove whatever's in there. Now it'll sting while I do it, but I'm sure a brave boy like you can cope with a little stinging?"
"Rolly, hold my hand while she's doing it?" Regina added. "And squeeze as hard as you like, my love."
With both women looking straight back at him, he nodded, trying to be brave. "Okay, ready."
They watched closely as the doctor brought her hand directly over, but not touching, the angry gash. A stream of pale blue light, interspersed with white twinkling lights, seemed to come from her fingers and directly down onto it."Gnnnn" He ground his teeth tightly, trying not to flinch or jerk away as the sting started to bite. Hell, it was painful! But he was determined not to cry. The pain seemed to last for at least half a minute, and his leg felt like it was on fire? It finally stopped.
"You brave boy!" Anna soothed, inspecting the wound. "There's many a battle-hardened man would've cried over that, but you didn't." He gave her a reluctant smile at the praise, and Regina was also smiling encouragingly."Now next we're going to heal the muscle that's been torn, and the skin on top. This'll take a bit longer, but it shouldn't sting so much. So, are you ready?"
He nodded again, holding Regina's hand and bracing himself for the worst. "ARGH!" He flinched this time as the pain restarted but noticed that the pale blue light had been replaced by a golden-orangey colour. And having seen his step mum and Emma's magic in action, he realised it was similar to the colour of theirs. This time, it lasted for more than a minute until it finally stopped. Thank goodness.
"Well done you!" Anna praised again, looking over the results. The previous gash was now completely healed, although the skin was bright pink, like it'd just been slapped. "One final thing. The skin there will still be very sore for a while, so I recommend just wearing shorts for a few days instead of jeans? And just before we finish," she looked at Regina again. "I've met your handsome papa in this pub a couple of times, and he's already told me about your beautiful mamma here, and her having her own magic blocked?" Looking at her wrist, she was clearly addressing Regina as much as Roland. "She'd no doubt have been able to do just what I just did, but adding a bit of 'motherly love magic' at the end, to help with the skin tenderness, like a balm?" Regina had never heard the term before, and it wasn't like she had any sort of good example of motherly love from Cora, magical or not, to draw on, was it?
"'Motherly love magic'? I'm not sure I understand?"
"If you just rest your hand over where we just healed him, let me do the rest for you?"
As she spoke, she reached over and gently gathered Regina's right hand, placing her own left hand over the top and passing her fingers through the spaces between Regina's, to hold them together as one. Then she drew them directly over the pink skin.
"Regina, think of the love you hold for him? Imagine you're casting a healing spell?"
"But I can't, my magic's been blocked. The cuff?"
"Trust me."
As she held her hand, Regina instantly felt the warm thrum of magic on the back of it, watching as the familiar octarine light reappeared, to sink into Roland's skin. But this time the light was a slightly deeper colour than usual, and not pure. And that's when she realised that some of her own magic was somehow being drawn out of her, and mixing with the other woman's before passing through and absorbed by her stepson. And as it did, she looked up at Roland's face. He seemed to sigh at the new sensations, not wincing like before..
"Aah, that feels nice!" But he was disappointed when the magic stopped, and they withdrew their linked hands. "It was like that green stuff papa put on my face when I got sunburnt once."
"That's a mother's love, turned into magic, Rolly. Well, we're all done. Just go carefully the next few days, and don't fall out of any trees?" He smiled back. "Though before you go, I usually give a lollipop to children who've been brave, but I know you're probably a bit too old for those? So how about one of these?" She flattened the palm of her right hand, and a small bar of chocolate appeared in it. And not just any bar of chocolate. "It's Swiss, so there's a lot less sugar and a lot more cocoa than the rubbish they sell over here. No offence? That is, if your mum and dad don't mind me giving it to you?" She smiled at Regina while she said it and if she didn't know better, she could've sworn the woman was flirting with her?
Robin, just behind her, smiled his approval, giving her a nod. "As you've got a while to go before dinner, that's fine. Thank you, Annabelle. "She raised her hand. "And thanks for coming so quickly? As you said, I usually have, or had, magic myself. So, as you can imagine, it was a little frustrating watching you doing all that and being unable to help? I noticed you also used some magic I'm unfamiliar with. So, I'm guessing you must be Merlin's daughter?" She offered her hand.
"That's me." She took it, smiling. "I met your handsome outlaw here several times in your bar over the last week, and he told me all about his beautiful queen." Then she looked down at her still-flat tummy. "And the fact he's so proud you're expecting? I can already see by the pair of you, that regardless of whether it's a boy or a girl, it'll still be stunning."
"Why thank you," Regina somehow felt drawn to this woman. She reminded her of someone, but she couldn't think who. "I've been told by a friend of mine, Emma, that you're living on her father, David Noland's farm? How long do you think you'll be staying with us?"
"That depends. I only found out I had a half-sister a couple of weeks ago, and I wanted to get to know her. So, as she's living and working on the farm, it seemed the best place? With my dad having left for the UK, and your Victor Whale in New York, I should be here for at least for the next two months. Or until David's had enough of me, and kicks me out?"
"Er, guys?" Roland noticed how the women were virtually staring at one another, odd smiles on both faces. They seemed to have forgotten about him. "I'm still lying here in my underpants?"
"I'm so sorry Rolly."Anna, distracted, twirled her fingers, and he now found himself covered in a pair of black shorts, with a familiar DC Comics cartoon figure on the side. She'd also removed his boots and socks. "Better?"
He looked down at his new shorts. "Wonder Woman?"
"Sorry, I wasn't thinking. I just happen to like her. You want something more manly? Like Hulk? Superman? The Simpsons? What do boys your age like?"
"No, I think Wonder Woman's cool! But I'd prefer the girl who plays her, not the cartoon. Gal Gadot? She's super-hot! Dad thinks she's hot, too."
Even Regina started to laugh along with her, much to Robin's discomfort.
"Thanks mate!" He rolled his eyes as the women enjoyed his discomfort. "But yes, I do think she's hot."
"I think she is, too. Rolly, you've got very good taste," said Anna, still chuckling.
Portland – Wednesday
"So how do you know Merlin"
Ruby was sitting at a café facing the jetties in Portland Harbour, looking out over the Fore River. Ten minutes earlier the stranger, Marcus Stone, had introduced himself. He was a large man, over six foot three, and broad. Strikingly handsome, with black hair and eyebrows, and the most unusual amber coloured eyes. Ruby felt somehow drawn to him as she watched him drink his scalding hot black coffee without flinching, almost like it was cold.
"My family and once lived in a region called Brightwater. You've probably never heard of it."
"I have, actually! My father was supposed to have come from there. We never met, as he died just before I was born."
"Really? Well, there was a longstanding feud between the King and his brother, who was trying to usurp the throne. Without going into the boring details, the King was betrayed by his brother, the heir, which led to a civil war lasting two years. A lot of people died and the rest of those on the King's side had to flee into the mountains. The King's son was found slaughtered and the blame for it was placed on the wolves, wrongly, by his family. He ordered a wolf cull."
"A cull?"Ruby's eyes widened, now starting to realise who, or what, she was talking to. Could he really be like her?"Your kind?"
"I'm a wolf, Ruby. Though to be more accurate, a werewolf, like you."
Her jaw dropped. In all her years, she'd met and sometimes fought against many wolves. But she'd never met another werewolf.
"Is this true?"
"I swear on Lycaon, everything I'm about to tell you, is true."
"And Merlin?"
"It's a long story, but basically, he knew we'd been wrongly accused of causing the prince's death. He got us all out and took twelve of us to another realm, where we've lived for almost thirty years. My father helped get us out safely though sadly, he passed about five years ago. But it was worth it, as we managed to link up with other packs and now have quite a large community of over a thousand, some two hundred of which are human-wolf hybrids like us. We manage to not only live in peace but thrive there."
"Where's 'there'?"
"Quebec."
"Canada? Are there many wolves up there?"
"You kidding me? Over sixty thousand; seven thousand around Quebec. It's far easier to live in human form, and for some of us hybrids to transition when we want, without getting affected by the moon. Adolphus thought it the safest bet after Merlin told him about it. He was proved right."
"Adolphus was also the name of one of my grandparents on my father's side? Sadly, I never met any of them."
"His father Troy, was human. It's from him and Athena, his first female alpha and werewolf, that we inherited the extra genes that allow those like you and me to transform. There's currently about forty direct descendants of Adolphus living there."
"My granny, who's still living in Storybrooke, never met any of – hang on a minute? You're saying we're related? You're like, my…uncle?"
"I am, Ruby. Or perhaps I should say, Red?"
She stared, astonish hed. He'd just sworn a vow under their sacred wolf-God, so he'd know the consequences if he lied after making it. She believed him.
"I was always told my father's side was slaughtered on masse as part of a cull, but now you're telling me I've got family living in Canada? Why's this all coming out now?"
"We were being hunted; unable to go back. After Merlin helped us all get out safe, by the time we found out about my brother's family and his death, a curse had taken place to send you to this realm, and a town with a magical shield. It made you invisible from outside, off any map, and unable to trace, let alone find you? But now you're outside, just like us. Merlin reached out to me, thinking it might be beneficial for you to meet some of your'other' family'? You don't need to feel you're alone in the world, Ruby. There's more of us then you can imagine. You should come visit."
"I'd like that."
Thursday morning
Ruby never got much sleep that night, mulling over everything he'd said. Apart from Granny, as far as she knew, till now, she had no living relatives whatsoever. But now, it seems her dad's family were alive and safe? She had to see them. So, after a long early morning jog on the coast road, she broke her decision to Snow and Belle.
"Seriously? You're going to disappear off all the way to Quebec for two weeks, on a wild-goose chase to meet people you've never met before, when we've only just bought this place? Are you mad? How do you even know this man's who he says he is?"
"It's in his eyes! Merlin told him where to find me. Besides, he also made the Vow of Lycaon, so I know he's telling the truth."
"The one David made you take? When he found us-"Snow stopped herself. That was too painful a memory for both of them.
"Yeah. If you make the vow and break it, you're outcast for good and all wolf kind are obligated to turn on you. They'll even kill you if they can! Thankfully in my case, David rescinded it."
"So you're really going to disappear for two weeks? I can't think of a worse time, Ruby. We've only just bought the place, there's loads to do, and we haven't even started!"
"Snow's right, the timing's not great, Rubes."Belle, having stayed silent, could only agree.
"I disagree. After all, the next three weeks are just painting, decorating and getting all the furniture and stock in? We've now got Keith and his team doing most of that anyway. It's only a seven-hour drive, so I'll be back long before we get started."
Snow huffed. "There's still a hell of a lot of furniture to shift before then! A fifteen-room hotel's worth, and our own accommodation and stock? Rubes, we need to be ready to open by end October at the latest."
"But this is my family! A family I never even know existed! C'mon Snow, you'd do the same thing if you were me, and you know it! Besides, why don't you ask Livvy to help, while I'm away? She already said she'll be looking for a part-time job while she's here. And that little hotel she's staying in till her boyfriend gets up here will be costing her a small fortune. She could even move into my room till I get back. I'm sure she'd be willing."
Somewhere in Somerset, England
"So, you're saying the cancer's gone? But they told me it was terminal!"
Earlier…
The mission to rescue the younger Liam Jones had been successful. Yesterday morning Merlin had pulled strings among the hospital's senior management, under his doppelgänger's medical authority as Professor Sir Merlyn Sage, Surgeon Royal, to remove the unconscious patient from the hospital. They'd prepared a story that the patient would be being removed to a private nursing hospital for his final days. The relevant authorities had already signed off the necessary release forms to allow a smooth transfer, no doubt also organised by the Sorcerer's connections. And all this while Killian and Emma merely watched the old master at work. It seems Killian had been right about Merlin. They'd never have managed it without him.
After a two-hour ride from London closely following the ambulance, without incident and mostly on motorways, Emma and Killian, with Hope in the back, finally arrived at an old country town called Glastonbury.
After passing a ruined abbey, they followed signs for somewhere called Glastonbury Tor, Emma looking it up online to discover it was some sort of famous landmark. A steep hill with a ruined church tower on the top. But then the ambulance turned off the main road and onto a small track with dense overhanging trees shielding their view. Then it ground to a stop, the Sorcerer climbing out from the passenger door. They watched as he stepped in front of the ambulance, being greeted by an older woman in robes who seemed to have appeared out of nowhere. Shaking hands, she gave him what appeared to be two rolled up parchments before stepping away again. Merlin climbed back inside, then the ambulance started to move forward again, but this time more slowly
Then it just vanished into thin air?
Assuming it'd gone through some sort of barrier similar to Storybrooke's, Emma followed the path. And as she passed through an apparently invisible barrier, even with her cuff on she still felt a powerful blast of magic enter the body.
But that was as nothing compared to the sight that now greeted them. For there, about a quarter of a mile away, in front of the ambulance that had reappeared, stood a magnificent pale stone castle, set in the centre of a lake, the likes of which she'd never seen before! It looked like something out of an Arthurian movie she'd seen. But it was so much bigger?
"Bloody hell!"Killian gasped, as astonished as Emma.
"Ditto. I guess this is Avalon?"
As the vehicles approached the centre, they could see that a large drawbridge was already down. And lit flares lined the route on either side. Judging by the ferocity of the flames, she guessed these were magical, designed never to go out.
"How can somewhere like this exist so close to where I grew up, without anyone hearing about it?"
"Ask Merlin. Anyway, if he got us here, I have to assume we're safe?"
She noticed how there seemed to be no guards outside whatsoever. No one to greet them as the two vehicles finally reached the edge of the moat. And looking at how the drawbridge had large tubs of bright flowers on each side as they drove over it, in between the flares, it seemed as though this place wasn't expecting any security problems anytime soon? They then drove under a portcullis, housed in an enormous tower. And that's when the view changed again. For now, it led to an open area, mostly lawned in the centre, with stalls now visible and people milling around, buying and selling things. Vast, brightly coloured fabrics hung from the walls, and Emma could even smell the cooked meats from various stalls as they continued to drive through toward a second tower at the far side. And as the vehicles finally pulled up outside one in particular, there were two people already standing there, a man and a woman, dressed in what looked vaguely like nurses' uniforms, ready to greet them.
"It's like we've just driven on a movie set?"Emma shook her head, amazed, as she stepped out from the driver's door and looking all around."Yet it's all real?"
"Very real,"said Merlin, having already stepped out of the ambulance."Welcome to Avalon, Emma. This is a place of ultimate healing, where only white magic can exist. Anything containing dark magic would have been blocked by now."
"How's my brother?"Killian got straight to the point, as always, watching the two 'nurses' come towards Merlin.
"Still in a coma, but alive. Come on, let's get him inside."
"Good afternoon, Merlin." The taller nurse, the woman, greeted him, smiling. "It's an honour to see you again?"
"The honour's all mine! Hello Barbara," he shook her hand. "How're the family? What's that remarkable mother of yours up to these days?"
"Well, Nathaniel-" but they were immediately interrupted by Killian, looking peeved.
"Look, can we all save the happy socialising till later? I've got a dying brother in the back of this thing. Can we just get on with it?"
~oOo~
An hour later…
"So, you're saying the cancer's gone? But they told me it was terminal!"
Liam Jones had woken to find unfamiliar faces dotted around his bed, all staring at him. The man he vaguely recognised as one of his older brothers, a serious-faced blonde woman, and older man in a tweed waistcoat, and a man and woman in similar white robes. Everything looked very different to what he'd remembered. Especially the room.
"It would've been, had Merlin not brought you here?" One of the nurses spoke.
"What do you mean? Where's 'here'?"
"Avalon, in the west of England,"said the grey bearded man with the twinkly smile."Nice to have you with us, Mr. Jones. And from what the hospital told us his morning, you've spent the best part of nearly two months in a coma."
Two months? He seemed confused. He vaguely remembered Nero surfacing the Nautilus up the Thames, after he'd collapsed. He said he'd be safer there than in whatever predicament they'd been left in. But his memories were hazy. "Two…you're serious?"
"Very. Is the pain still there?"
He reached for his sides, remembering where the agonising pain that more often made him double up recently. "Um…no. I don't understand? How?"
"You were diagnosed in London with bowel cancer, were you not?"
"Yeah. So how come-"
"You were dying, mate!"Killian finally spoke up."Hello little brother. I got told by someone and came to get you. Merlin here did the important stuff, along with the nurses here."
"They're a lot more than nurses, Captain." Merlin chipped in." Barbara and her team are actually white witches and wizards. I was their magic that cured you. It's them you need to be thanking."
"So you're Merlin? As in, King Arthur's Merlin? This isn't making any sense."
"Then listen to him. It's a long story."
Portland, Friday
It'd been a long week. In the space of only five days, they signed the purchase agreement on the building, money had been exchanged, and the decorators had started working on the bar and dining side of the building. Ruby had cleared off to Canada that very morning, in a rush to see her supposed relatives in Canada.
At her suggestion, Belle had reached out to Olivia and asked her to come join them for coffee, as they had a proposition to put to her. Namely that if she was willing, they'd pay her a basic rate to help them paint and decorate their personal living areas in the annexe, until she had afull-time job paying more, or until Jerard joined her in a few weeks time.Snow had sweetened the deal by saying she could save money by moving into Ruby's room at the rental while she was away.
Olivia accepted the deal immediately. And not because of any money saving on accommodation, but because it would give her a chance to spend time with Belle, who'd occupied her thoughts more and more since she'd left them in Havana.
After the time they'd spent together, Olivia knew all too well that Belle, after a nasty marriage breakup, definitely wasn't looking for any serious single relationship with anyone right now. Least of all her. But despite that, her feelings for the former librarian were deepening.. Something Jerard had picked up on even more than she had. So, if there was potential for something more, she had to tread slowly. And carefully.
"All good?"She asked as Belle came back into the living room, having changed into lemon bed shorts and a matching cotton top. "Is he asleep?"
"Yes, thank god!"Belle picked up a book from the table she'd nearly finished, before setting herself down on a sofa."It's taking longer to settle him every time. Hi s mind's always so damn active? I hate to admit it but this elite school that Rumple…er…Angus shortlisted for us to look at, sounds like it may be the making of him. Reading the syllabus, they'll certainly tire him out a lot more than I can. Did you have a chance to talk to him?"
"Yeah, he's a lovely kid. Super bright too! I've never even seen a four-year-old use a MacBook before. He was showing me all sorts of pictures from his trip to Europe last month, and he seems obsessed with ancient Egypt? He was telling me all about Tutankhamen and the mummies, and how they made the pyramids? He's like a walking encyclopaedia. I felt pretty dim, talking to him."
"I know," Belle smiled, her eyes showing nothing but pride. "His father's highly intelligent, too. He takes after him in so many ways."
"You too, Belle! I've seen the stuff you read, and how quickly you skim through books. I think he takes after you in that, always thirsting for knowledge."
"I try to keep up, but I still feel so guilty you know? After I screwed up our marriage, he was the one who suffered the most."
"Don't keep kicking yourself. I can see how much he loves you. Fancy a drink?"
"No thanks. I've had a weird taste in my mouth all day? My coffee this morning tasted disgusting, and when Snow brought out that bacon sandwich, I thought I was going to throw up. I think I may be coming down with something, but I hope not, cos we've got so much to do this week, I can't afford to be ill."
"Everyone get ill, babe! Last time I felt like rough, I thought I was pregnant? Silly I know, because I've been on the pill for years, but it's never one hundred percent, is it? It turned out just to be a bug, so I stayed in bed a couple of days and I was fine after that. Jer was brilliant, fussing over me like a mother hen. Listen, if you're still feeling rough in the morning, let me take care of Gideon? Maybe I can take him off and go visit a zoo or something? You can rest up till you feel better. I'm sure between us Snow and me can cope."
"Thanks, Livvy. What made you think you were pregnant?"
"The usual. A missed period, funny taste in my mouth, tender tits, constipation? Sorry, to be blunt. Mind you, I've never had a kid, so I can't really tell."
Belle stopped listening. She hadn't had a period since before she'd left Storybrooke the first time, the last one over two months ago. Apart from while conceiving and expecting Gideon, her cycle had been as regular as clockwork for the last twenty years, despite all the numerous stresses and strains Rumple had thrown at her. And she definitely had a strange taste in her mouth. She'd also been on the pill, diligently taking it even before she'd met Jerard. She couldn't be, could she?"
~oOo~
Saturday morning
She'd barely slept all night, fearing the worst.
When they'd first arrived in Portland a week ago, she, Snow and Ruby had shared Snow's bed for the first three nights. It'd been a source of comfort in stressful times, and they'd all slept soundly, despite the limited space for three grown women. But unbeknown to them, on the third night, having not fully settled into the new regime, Gideon came knocking on his mother's bedroom door, intending to climb in with her and cuddle up. But finding her room empty, he'd crept down the landing and cautiously opened the door to Snow's room, just to check. And there she was, just like before, with Snow hugging her from behind. Except this time, Ruby was right there with them, right behind Snow.
He'd said nothing till the morning, over breakfast, in front of everyone.
"Mamma? Do you only like girls now? Not boys?"
"I'm sorry?" He now had the full attention of all three women.
"Do you just like girls? Are Snow and Ruby your girlfriends now?"
Where the hell did that come from?
"No. I mean, they're friends of mine, and they're women obviously, but why do you ask?"
"I couldn't sleep last night, and it was dark, so I came to your room to climb in with you, but you weren't there? So, I went to Snow's room extra quietly, so not to wake you up, and you were there again, in bed with her, and Ruby was with you this time. Like the last two nights."
The three women shared suitably awkward looks, but Snow was the one to answer him.
"Gideon, you know how my marriage to David, my husband, ended?" He nodded. "Well, I've been very upset and crying about it a lot recently. I've been very lonely, and even having nightmares," Thank God it wasn't Emma she was talking to. She could spot a lie a mile away. "So your mamma has been very kind and kept me company at night? I'm sorry if I've been selfish for hogging her."
Gideon nodded, seemingly satisfied with the answer
~oOo~
That was four days ago. And for the last four nights, Belle had slept in her own room, although Ruby did stay the remaining nights with Snow, while Gideon joined his mother in her own bed. And she loved having him snuggled in close. But a small part of her missed the warmth and comfort of her friends. Maybe he was right? Maybe she was turning gay?
But she had more pressing concerns. Which was why she'd asked Olivia to cover for her by making breakfast and looking after Gideon, while she went to the pharmacist.
And now, an hour later, as she sat in her bedroom, waiting for the results to appear on the little white stick she'd just peed on ten minutes earlier, fear overwhelmed her as a knock came from the other side of the door. And Olivia's voice.
"Belle, are you okay in there? Snow's asking for you."
"Tell her I'll be out in a few minutes!" She called back.
"Okay." But Olivia hesitated before walking away. There was something worrying about her voice? She'd already noticed how Belle seemed unusually quiet, her mind clearly occupied. She seemed very worried about something and the previous evening she'd said she was feeling rough. Maybe she was developing a cold? If so, she was more than willing to take Gideon back out to give her a chance to rest. After all, she wanted to get to know the lad better anyway.
Meanwhile, on the other side of the door Belle watched in horror as an image started to appear in the little white window of the stick. The image of a smiling baby's face.
"Oh good God, no!" She gasped, a hand going to her mouth. "Not now, surely?"
Olivia heard. She sounded panicky, like something was seriously wrong. Belle may not appreciate the intrusion, and she might even get told off, but her friend was upset, so her mind was made up. She was going in.
"Belle?" She just as she opened the door, to find her sitting on her bed, her back against the headboard, looking at something in her hand. But seeing her come in, Belle suddenly jerked her head up in surprise, spotting her friend and immediately twisting to slide whatever she was holding under the pillow beside her as quickly as possible. "I'm sorry to intrude, but you sounded upset!"
"I'm…"
"And you're as white as a sheet! Is something wrong?"
"I'm, er…"She was too panicked to tell her off for invading her privacy. "I got some unexpected news, that's all. Just give me a few minutes? I'll be fine."
"Oh babe…"far from taking the hint, Olivia instead walked over, sitting herself on the edge of the bad next to her, taking her hand, while using the other to pull a stray lock of hair away from her face and behind her ear, stroking her cheek after. "Anything I can do to help? Can I take Giddy off for a while? Or get you anything?"
"It's okay. It's just, something's happened." How do I tell someone their boyfriend's got you pregnant? "I just need a few minutes, that's all."
"I understand," she stroked her cheek with her palm again. "I'll tell her you're busy."
"Thanks." She stared up at soft green eyes that showed nothing but sympathy.
"No problem,"s he looked down at the pillow, the one Belle rested her hand close to, having clearly shoved something under it which she didn't want her to see. "You know, you can trust me, Belle? You can tell me anything, anything at all, and I won't breathe a word to anyone; not even Jer, if you don't want me to, I swear!"
"I know, and I do…"Belle already spotted where she was looking and needed to distract her. "We've only known each other a couple of months, yet I feel I've known you forever." Now Belle's hands were on Olivia's cheeks, drawing closer. Unfortunately, for Olivia, those pale blue eyes smiling back at her, and so close, were having a very different effect.
"I feel the same way about you." And a hell of a lot more. "I know we've all had sex and everything, and you know what I'm like, but, well, it's rare for me to say something like this, but I feel drawn to you, Belle French, in a way I can't begin to understand…"She so wanted to say how she really felt, but she wasn't going to take the risk of saying too much too soon, and ruin everything."But you don't have to worry, I'm not some lovesick teenager, going to go all drippy on you. I just wanted you to-"
But her words were drowned the moment Belle unexpectedly brought their lips together, giving her a tender kiss. It took a moment to adjust to what was happening before Olivia responded in kind, tilting, adjusting to better mould their mouths as she felt an arm come round her.
"Wow, sure wasn't expecting that!" She breathed grinning when they separated. "Not that I'm complaining."
"What can I say? You and Jer brought out a spontaneous side to me I never knew existed. Before I met you two, I'd never imagined doing anything like that, never mind going on to have sex with more than one person in the room. You've…changed me."
"Well as you're still smiling, I guess I'll have to take that as a compliment?" She grinned, leaning forward. "And as for sex, you should know by now I'm hardly likely to refuse you, am I?" She looked back down at the pillow. "But judging by the way you shoved something under there to hide it the moment I walked in, I'm guessing you need your privacy. Sorry for intruding."
Belle hesitated, closing her eyes and sighing loudly. She could see she was being sincere.
"It's okay." She slid her left hand under the pillow, retrieving the stick. "I guess you'd have found out one way or another." She turned the window of the stick to show her the baby face." I just found out before you came in. It's positive."
Olivia stared at it, wide-eyed."Oh. Is that a good thing, or…?"
"Well, I certainly wasn't planning on having a baby! I'm turning forty, for god's sake, I've already got a four-year-old, just moved in here and I'm trying to set up a damn business. Not the best timing now, is it?"
"Don't panic! First you need to get over the shock, then we'll get you to a clinic to make sure you really are, as these things are never completely accurate. Then you decide. If you decide not to have it, I'll go with you for the procedure if you want, if only to hold your hand. And if you do, well, I'll make sure I'm here for you all the way. If you'll have me, that is?"
"But another baby, Liv?" She shook her head. "It couldn't come at a worse time."
"All the reason to think with a clear head. Any idea who the father is?" She regretted it the moment she said it. "Sorry. I mean, could-"
"My ex husband and I haven't had sex for over five months! And I haven't been with any other man since, apart from your boyfriend."
"So, it's definitely Jerard's?"
"Who else?"
"Sorry again, I didn't mean it like that. I just…weren't you on the Pill?"
"Of course I was! I have been since after I had Gideon; but the doctors were always telling me they're not one hundred percent! God, why didn't I just say yes when he offered to use condoms?"
"Because we were all clean, Ruby has that latex allergy, and we got caught up in the moment? Or moments? It could've happened to any of us. She handed back the stick, taking her hand again. "Still, what I do know is that if you do decide to keep it, you should tell Jer. He'd be thrilled!"
"Are you kidding me? He's open, just like you, with a girl, or boy, in every port. You're both players Livvy, into group sex and all sorts of stuff. How's someone like him going to react to being told he's going to be a father? That is, if he's not already?"
Olivia's mind went back to her conversation with Jerard a few days ago.
"That may have been true, but I've seen a change in him, Belle. He said something to me the other day that got me thinking. But whatever happens, don't make any hasty decisions just yet?"
~oOo~