Welche magischen Feste feiert man im April? Welche Kräuter kann man schon sammeln? Welcher Gottheit kann man huldigen? Wann finden diese Feiertage statt? Welche Rituale sind im April am effektivsten?
Hier geht es zum Video: Rituale und Kräuter im April
Auf Grund meines vorigen Beitrages zum 1. April mit der Göttin der Venus, kam ich nun auf die Idee, einen kleinen Infofilm zum Thema April zu…
Pairings: EmmaxRegina, others mentioned throughout
Rating: T on this chapter
Author’s Notes: No real warning; just forgot to post this like I promised. I'm unsure if I will get the next chapter out any time in the near future as my interest in this piece is waning. We'll just have to see what happens.
"Jupiter be damned Emma!" Neal snapped angrily as he paced in front of her office. "When you get into a bind, you really get into a bind."
"You think I don't know this?" Emma took a breath through her nose and released it through her mouth, blowing strands of gold out of her face.
"This isn't anything to take lightly." Neal frowned and shook his head, his soft eyes looking at hers.
"I'm well aware. I've all ready approached Zelena for her help but she's asking for the impossible and I don't know that I can allow myself or those under my protection to be at her mercy."
"You mean your new toy? And the disgraced one?"
Emma shook her head, "I don't expect you to understand."
"You're right I don't. You risked your neck and your reputation to save that boy's skin and now you've done it again for a pet that should've been put down before it ever saw the auction block." He paced back and forth like a caged tiger. The blonde remained behind her desk watching him closely.
"I don't know that I can bail you out of this Emma."
"What about your Father?"
"My Father," Neal rolled his eyes, "My Father hates you almost as much as the Mayor seems to."
"I've heard your step-mother has done wonders to calm his ire."
"Is that what you're choosing to call it?"
"Be…"
"Don't say her name." Emma warned causing Neal to lift his hands as he resumed his seat in front of her desk. "Her name is Lacey and she's your step-mother. Nothing more or less than that."
"After they carted her off for re-programming you mean. All the money in the world couldn't buy her out of that place and I know you tried."
"I was foolish with her heart and I got what I deserved in the end."
"And you're about to get more. What did you do to piss Cora off this much?"
"I don't know…maybe I'm not useful anymore…we both know what she does with those who are useless to her."
"Then I'd suggest you find a way to be useful again." Neal set his elbows on his knee holding his chin with his hands. "What did Zelena want for her help?"
"The same as you I imagine."
Neal blinked but didn't say anything, waiting for her to continue.
"She wants me to marry her so her ambitions can come to fruition."
"And you think I'd ask you to marry me when your back is to the wall? What do you take me for? My Father?"
"Of course not; I know you wouldn't put me in that position."
"Then why did you just imply I would?" He looked hurt and Emma felt bad for breaking his heart yet again.
"I didn't mean to. I'm sorry; if I were to decide to marry anyone you know it'd be you."
"I loved you Emma and in some ways I always will but I would never do that to you. I wouldn't back you into a corner and expect you to do something you're so adamantly opposed to. I know you won't marry for anything less than love and I know you don't love me like that. You never did. You loved her."
Emma looked away and gave a small nod, "I did. I loved her with all my heart."
"So…how are we going to get you out of this?"
She looked back at him and offered him a small smile, which he returned.
"Do you have any ideas?"
"I may but you're not going to like it."
She frowned, "What is it?" Her suspicious nature had served her well in the past and continued to do so to this day.
"Have you heard anything from Kathryn?"
"Kathryn…as in Kathryn Midas?"
Neal nodded and Emma frowned and shook her head. "You know after…well…"
"You broke the girl's heart…but from what I hear…she still asks about you."
"I heard she found someone recently that turned her head."
"You've heard wrong. I speak to her from time to time…she asked me how you were each and every time…it's just a thought but her Father is almost as influential as mine given the fact that he's the richest man in Cerres."
"Are you suggesting I invest in a relationship with Kathryn Midas?"
"I'm saying you may want to consider your options. Between her and Zelena who do you think you'd prefer as your wife?"
"…Do I have a third option of not marrying someone to get me out of this mess?"
"It's still a long shot but it'll tie you more to the community. You're seen as a lone wolf. You don't attend parties, you don't go out with friends."
"I go out with Aurora from time to time!"
"When was the last time?" Neal asked, amusement at her indignation shining in his kind eyes.
Emma grumbled something and looked away causing him to laugh.
"You see my point? You either work or you're at home. You've been invited to several events…even going to church is out for you."
"It's nothing but a way to enforce the laws and the status quo. I want no part of it."
"And you're entitled to that but right now you'd best find a way to make yourself invaluable to the community at large. You're popular enough because of your work but you're still a wild card and I think that's what Cora is most afraid of."
"I don't want power Neal…I don't want to rule Cerres."
"Then you'd best stay clear of Zelena…and be seen in Kathryn Midas' company if she'll deign to speak to you that is."
"Emma?" Kathryn's beautiful face lit up at the sight of the other woman. She rose to her feet where she'd been sitting with Tink Bell.
"I uh…I just wanted to say hello…it's been a long time."
"Too long." Kathryn's blue eyes were alight with affection as she looked over her former flame.
"I um…I should get going…"
"You only just arrived. Why not stay and have drinks with us at least? We've all ready finished eating but I don't think either of us would mind the company." Tink offered with a mischievous smile.
As Kathryn turned to look at her friend, the sun caught the light strands of her hair turning them a pale gold as she smiled brightly. She was still as beautiful as she had been when they were teenagers and really that was the last time they'd spoken. After Emma had stolen a few kisses and tried for more…only to have Kathryn ask for her hand before they did that.
She took a breath and nodded, moving to sit at the white draped table of the restaurant. It was rare for her to come here but she knew of Kathryn's standing lunch date with Tink and she'd chosen to see if Neal's words were correct. Their waiter appeared quickly and took their drink order before departing leaving the women to their devices. Emma reached out fiddling with the red cloth napkin as she tired not to fidget in the high backed chair she found herself in.
"So…how are you?" She asked trying to break the awkward silence that had followed her shuffle to the table.
"I'm well and you?" Kathryn asked taking a sip of her water, the crystal made a small clink as it was set down.
"I'm doing all right I suppose."
"Well this is painfully awkward."
"Tink!" Kathyrn looked scandalized at her friend's blunt observation.
"What? It's true."
"She's right, I'm…I wanted to come and…apologize…I was young…"
"And stupid." Tink butted in and Kathryn waved her off with an annoyed scowl.
"And very stupid…" Emma repeated. "I um…I guess well I don't deserve your forgiveness…"
"But you have it." Kathryn offered before she reached out and laid her soft hand on Emma's. She gave a small squeeze and an affectionate smile, which was hesitantly returned.
"What I did was wrong and I shouldn't have done it in such a public way…let alone with promises I didn't intend to keep."
"You did hurt me back then but we were young and dumb. I can't fault you for something that wasn't all your fault. I was partially to blame too. I made assumptions and I tried to push you into something that we were both too young for."
Emma shook her head, "You're much too good."
"I've been wanting to talk to you for a while but I never seemed to gather the courage to seek you out. I am sorry for that."
They paused as the waiter brought their drink orders, three glasses of wine. It didn't escape Emma's keen notice that Kathryn didn't lift her hand from hers.
"It's not your fault. It's mine…I've been…rather neglectful in my social duties."
"Rather neglectful." Tink snorted as she took a sip of her wine causing Kathryn to cut her eyes at her once again. She lifted her hands in the universal I give up gesture and went back to her drink.
"She's right…I haven't been to social events in ages." Emma offered with a sheepish shuffle of her shoulders.
"You've been very busy…making a rather powerful name for yourself. Your Mother would've been proud."
"I do miss her."
"As do I. She was so kind…so good."
They were silent for a few moments before Kathryn gave Emma's hand another squeeze.
"My Father is throwing a gathering at his home this weekend. We'd…I'd love to have you there."
Emma took a breath and smiled softly. "I'd love to be there."
"Wonderful."
"Um…will you be accompanied by anyone?"
"What do you mean?" Kathryn cocked her head as she looked quizzically at Tink and then back at Emma.
"I think she's asking if she can be your escort Kat."
"Oh…um…"
"You don't have to say yes because you feel obligated…"
"I don't…I'd love for you to escort me."
"Wonderful…" Emma took a sip of her wine, trying to fight down the bile in her throat. Kathryn was still in love with her of that there could be no doubt…and it made her sick for some inexplicable reason.
"You look nice. Where are you off to this afternoon ma'am?" Regina asked with a bright smile as her owner stepped down the last step from her room and into the living room where she was settled on the floor. She'd just finished practicing and was looking forward to the evening ahead, hoping for some cuddles and maybe a few kisses.
"I have to attend a party."
Jefferson frowned from his place in the doorway of the kitchen. "Should I not prepare dinner for you Mistress?"
"No, I'll be out late tonight I believe."
"Why?" Regina asked with a small frown.
"I'm escorting an old friend to a party at her Father's home."
"An old friend?"
"Regina," Jefferson hissed a warning but the girl was willful and chose to ignore it as she awaited an answer.
"Yes, her name is Kathryn…"
"Kathryn…that's a pretty name. Is she pretty?"
Emma blinked, taken aback by the strange look on her pet's face. Best to crush that now if she indeed had to go through with this. "Yes, she's very lovely. Very sweet and very kind."
Regina frowned, looking away. "I see…I won't wait up then…since you and your lovely friend will be up late. Excuse me." She rose quickly to her feet and ran off before Emma could stop her.
She shook her head, blonde curls shifting as her red heeled shoes brought her closer to Jefferson who looked almost as betrayed as Regina had.
"Make sure she eats."
"She won't ma'am. She's upset; she doesn't eat when she's upset."
Emma looked away, taking a breath and releasing it slowly. "I'm trying to ensure our survival. Nothing more."
"You take Regina to bed but you marry another. This is the way of things in our world…but it's not her way."
"I can only do so much to protect you two on my own."
"We're grateful for that ma'am but we only wish that you would inform us before any big decisions that affect us are put into place."
"You two are my property…I don't need you to approve my decisions."
"No, you don't. Excuse me ma'am. I believe I've left something on the stove."
"Jefferson," She started but the boy had all ready slunk away, dragging his bad leg behind him.
She ran a hand through her hair, careful not to mess it up before she grabbed her black coat from the closet.
"I'm doing what's best for us." She called over her shoulder as she grabbed her keys and pulled the door shut. No reply met her ears; not that she'd been expecting one anyways.
So....who wants more Cerres? I’m about to put the finishing touches on the next two chapters I’ve got written and I should get them live tomorrow seeing as I wore myself out today doing manual labor and working out super heavy...(My neck is killing me not to mention my ankles!) I’ll live and hopefully I’ll remember to do this in the morning. Feel free to pester me to remind me to post the next chapter. In fact I encourage it.
Pairings: EmmaxRegina, several others mentioned throughout
Rating: M
Author’s Notes: I find it ridiculously hilarious that I remembered to post the new chapter to FF.net and completely forgot to post it here. Sorry about that. I’ve all ready got another chapter ready to go and I’m working on yet another. World expansion and the like. I hope you enjoy and as always if you feel the urge to tell me let me know. - Scarlette
"Emma, I didn't think I'd see you any time soon. Come to rethink my offer?" Zelena's smirk was saccharine as she watched the strong blonde step across the threshold of her living room and towards the couch where she was sitting. She crossed her bare legs, enjoying the way the blonde's eyes lingered there for a moment before her bright eyes went to her face.
"Zelena…you look well."
"I look great and you look rather rough. What's the matter? That pretty little fuck of yours not working out? Maybe it's time you stopped messing with pets and tried something with a little more bite."
"Are you suggesting I try you?" Emma asked as she lowered herself to sit beside the redheaded woman on the couch. She reached out, running a calloused hand along the soft silky skin the short skirt Zelena wore didn't cover.
"I did no such thing!" Zelena pretended to act scandalized before a devious smirk lit up her face. "Though it certainly would anger my Mother and Jupiter knows that would be worth it to me."
"I was unaware you were a religious woman."
"Religion has its uses even in this hellhole we've created." Zelena shrugged.
Jupiter was the reining Goddess in the churches of Cerres. A sweet woman with that helped the poor and comforted the sick, she was the patron saint that most of the upper class worshiped and yet Emma couldn't find it in herself to play their games. Anyone who was anyone attended services, held in a beautiful chapel on a hill that faced away from the slums that surrounded most of the higher buildings where the upper crust lived. The closer to the walls one went, the more squalor they would see after all. Jupiter was often cited as the reasons the upper crust kept pets. After all her own pet, Venus was often depicted on her knees before Jupiter's throne, pinned there by a chain around her neck that connected to the throne Jupiter sat on.
"I thought you were content with your place as your Mother's heir apparent."
The sneer on the redhead's pretty lips said it all before her pretty face smoothed out and she glanced at Emma.
"I know why you're here and I know what you want and my answer will depend on what you intend to do for me."
"What is it you want?"
"You should take me up on my offer. We'd make a formidable team…enough to topple my Mother."
Emma sat forward, her hand sliding from Zelena's shapely legs to the cushion underneath them. Zelena's apartment was much like her Mother's. Opulent and too over done for Emma's rather simple tastes. Greens, Gold, and soft blues created too much in the space available. The curtains were too thick, the golden curtain rods and the gold crown molding clashed horribly in Emma's opinion. The blue furniture with it's gold leafed legs looked terrible with the emerald green of the walls but that wasn't what it was about. It was about power, just like her Mother Zelena's home reflected her personality. Greedy, wealthy, and powerful; all things Mother and Daughter seemed to value above all else.
"I've come to ask a favor and in return I'll do you one."
"You want me to stop my Mother from sending you on a suicide run?" Zelena looked at her perfectly manicured nails and then back at the other woman.
"How'd you guess?" Emma asked dryly, resisting the urge to roll her eyes.
"Lucky me, I know just the way."
"Do you now? And what will this cost me exactly?"
"How's Lacey? I heard she's very happy as Robert Gold's wife."
Emma felt a slight pang through her heart but ignored it. She couldn't show weakness in the viper's nest after all.
"You know as much as I do. I don't associate with Mr. Gold much."
"Not for lack of trying on Lacey's part. She wants to meet with you about something special."
"She knows where to find me."
"Funny, how you always seem to turn up missing whenever she shows up."
"I'm a busy woman, I can't help that."
Zelena smirked, her bright eyes offering their own thoughts on the matter and Emma turned away from her to hide the pain in her own eyes. While she was good at hiding most of her emotions, her heart was still damaged over what had happened to her beloved Belle.
"You and I have a chance to take greatness from my Mother's hands. Don't you want to run Cerres? To decide what happens here? Secure your position by agreeing to an alliance with me."
"You mean agree to marry you."
"At least I have the right thing between my legs unlike another someone that desperately wants you in his bed."
"I'm not marrying anyone Zelena. You or Neal it doesn't make a difference."
Zelena's smile faded as her eyes popped with anger. "And what makes you think you have any choice in the matter? You want my help, that's the cost of it. Take it or leave it."
"Even if I were to take your offer, I wouldn't help you topple your Mother." Emma rose to her feet, dipping into a slight bow. "Thank you for this most delightful chat."
"You'd better take my offer Emma. After all, it's the only way."
"I'm sure I'll find another way."
"Something is bothering you." Mary Margaret said as her sister-in-law made herself comfortable in her kitchen chair. The petite brunette smiled to herself recognizing the set of Emma's posture as one her own husband employed when he was brooding.
"The impossible has happened."
Mary Margaret frowned and set a cup of hot chocolate down in front of Emma. The blonde preferred it with cream and cinnamon but since cream had become a somewhat precious commodity it was usually reserved for special occasions and given the look on Emma's face she didn't seem to care. Green met troubled sage as their eyes connected over the rims of the coffee mugs.
"You could use a personal slave like Jefferson so you don't have to do everything."
"They're not unheard of but I prefer to do things for myself and a personal slave requires attention the same as any other. I'm unwilling to do so."
"You have too gentle a heart."
Mary Margaret shrugged and tugged the sleeves of her dove gray cardigan down. "Think what you will but my Father only had two pets in his lifetime and one personal servant until the day he died."
"Your Father was too kind hearted too."
"Or Sidney just meant that much to him."
"Whatever happened to him?"
"My Father granted him some of his estate, last I heard he was another of Cora's lackeys but I'm not particularly inclined to gossip." She took another sip of her hot cocoa and looked over the rim of the pink mug as Emma made a face and took another sip of hers.
"You were saying something about impossibilities?" She prompted causing the blonde to growl softly.
"Cora is trying to send me on a suicide mission."
"I see; what does my husband say about it?"
"He and I both know what happens if we both go but I won't allow him to make the run no matter what."
"He'll follow you to hell and back you know that."
"I'm aware but I won't make you a widow and I'll need him as my closest relative to step in and take Jefferson and Regina should something like that occur."
Mary Margaret cocked her head to one side, "You've made arrangements without my consent?" Her usually gentle eyes flashed. Everyone knew how she felt about personal servants and pets. She was insistent neither she nor David would keep them but it seemed her husband had yet again undermined her. It wasn't all right for them to keep Jefferson and Regina but she tolerated it for the sake of peace but to have them permanently…
"I may not have a choice. I cannot allow Jefferson to die or Regina to be sold to someone like Cruella. You know she'd completely break her and torture her on sheer principle. She's been through enough."
"You refer to her as her not it. Why?"
Emma set her jaw, shooting her sister in law a withering glare.
"So…what can we do to get you out of it."
"I'm going to talk to Neal and see what he thinks I should do. His Father adores him above all else…he may be willing to run interference."
"Gold hates you Emma. That's unwise to assume because he adores his son that he won't try to stab you in the back."
"I'm well aware of Gold's feelings for me…it's only because I outbid him for…"
"I know the circumstances and I also know he won in the end…I speak to Lacey sometimes. She's nothing like she used to be…she's gained a cruel streak where there only used to be sweetness."
"She's not who she once was. He had her reprogrammed after everything that happened and there is nothing I can do about it except move on. I have to consider the possibility that I may have to choose between the lesser of two evils in order to keep Regina and Jefferson safe."
Emma lifted the cooled mug to her lips and took a long sip as her sister-in-law spluttered.
"What do you mean the lesser of two evils?"
"You know Neal has been in love with me since we were kids." She began swirling her finger around the mug's handle and then up the rim. "Zelena has been after me to marry her."
"The Mayor's daughter wants to marry you?"
"She's as ambitious as her Mother and she knows how valuable someone with my resources is. She can't have Gold and she won't subject herself to George. I'm her best option."
"And I'm sure it helps that you're attractive as well as resourceful."
Emma snorted and gave a small nod, "Neal would marry me tomorrow if I told him I was interested. Allying myself with Gold wouldn't necessarily hurt me but…"
"Either way you'd be stuck in a marriage of convenience."
Emma nodded, "I refused to subject myself to such a long time ago but I'm afraid I may not have a choice."
"What does Aurora say about it?"
"I haven't spoken to her yet but she'd urge me towards Zelena if only because there's a chance that Cora would be taken down. She hates Cora because of her strong alliance with Maleficent."
"Maleficent isn't that terrible compared to some of the others."
"No, but she did try to harm Mulan and we both know how Aurora feels about her pet."
"She loves her."
"Yes, she does and she'd do anything to keep Mulan safe no matter what it cost. It's why she married Phillip despite the fact that she couldn't care less for him."
"What tangled webs we weave." Mary Margaret shook her head. "I'm surprised how much like David you are Emma. He too would refuse to marry someone he didn't love."
"But he did marry someone he loved. He got lucky, the rest of us may not." Emma pointed out as she lifted the mug and drained it.
"Would you like another?"
"No, I have to get back to work. Thanks for talking to me. Are you and David coming to dinner tomorrow night?"
"I'd like that and I know he would too especially if you're intent to do this."
"'I'll do what I have to do and nothing more."
"Then we'll support you, no matter what you decide."
"You're home late." Regina pointed out as soon as Emma stepped into her bedroom. She'd been sleeping in the bed with her owner for a while now but it was still strange to her. When she wasn't there, she was tempted to go back to her crate but she made herself stay.
"I've had a lot going on. I'm surprised you aren't asleep yet."
Regina shrugged thin shoulders, "I was waiting for you."
"Did you practice today?" Emma moved to sit on the bed and sighed as her weary body sank down into it's comforts. Soft hands reached up and began to rub her tense shoulders and she rolled her head back looking into the amused eyes of her pet.
"What do you think?" She sassed and then offered the tired older woman a saucy smile.
"I think you're a very good girl that does what she's told within reason."
"Only within reason?"
"Yes; that feels nice. Where'd you learn that?"
"Granny used to get cramps in her shoulders and back. I used to help work the knots out." Regina shrugged. "Looks like you can use it."
"You have no idea little one." Green eyes closed as the girl's hands continued to work her shoulders until they were loose.
"Better?"
"Much, now I feel like I could fall asleep right here."
"You should change. Jefferson washed your night clothes. They're in the bathroom."
Emma groaned but rose to her feet, dragging them along the carpet until she could push the door open and go about her nightly routine. When she returned, her pet was burrowed under the blankets looking out at her with sleepy eyes.
"Finally catching up to you too huh?"
"I didn't sleep well last night."
"Nightmares?"
"On and off; I didn't wake you did I?"
"No, you were quiet. I felt you thrash once or twice but that was it."
"I'm sorry I'll try to do better."
"No need, wake me up if you're scared. I'm usually a rather light sleeper. We'll make do. Now, let's go to bed and we'll worry about tomorrow when it gets here."
"You act as though something bad is coming."
"It has yet to be seen."
"Is there anything I can do to help?" Regina asked, as she pushed her body into her owner's strong arms.
The older woman sighed and shook her head as she stroked her hand down Regina's back. "I can still feel your spine. Are you sure you're eating during the day?"
"You have Jefferson monitor me. Has he said I'm not eating?"
"He says you eat but clearly it's not enough."
"Or maybe I'm just meant to be this thin."
"Or maybe I'd like to see you fill out a little more. Maybe here?" She moved her hand from the girl's back down causing her to laugh.
"Maybe I've all ready filled out plenty there and I don't need any help."
Emma laughed at the bright smile on her pet's face before her mood turned serious once again. "You know I'd do anything to protect you don't you?"
The girl's smile faded slightly before she nodded and cuddled a bit closer. "I'm yours and that means I'm under your protection." She said softly.
"I may have to do something unpleasant in the near future but it's all to keep you and Jefferson safe. I need you two to trust in me."
"We do, we see what you do for us day in and day out. We know what it takes whether you think we do or not."
She tugged on her braid and the girl settled once again from her heated state down to a simmer.
"We do trust you but maybe you need to trust us too?"
Long after Regina drifted off, Emma lay awake thinking of what she'd said. It was nearly dawn before her eyes closed and she drifted off to sleep, noting that Regina had yet to have another nightmare.
Here it is guys! A bit of a preview as I continue to work to get this chapter finished and out. We’re learning a bit more about the dynamics of Cerres as well as gasp! their religion! Enjoy and please let me know what you think!
“Emma, I didn’t think I’d see you any time soon. Come to rethink my offer?” Zelena’s smirk was saccharine as she watched the strong blonde step across the threshold of her living room and towards the couch where she was sitting. She crossed her bare legs, enjoying the way the blonde’s eyes lingered there for a moment before her bright eyes went to her face.
“Zelena…you look well.”
“I look great and you look rather rough. What’s the matter? That pretty little fuck of yours not working out? Maybe it’s time you stopped messing with pets and tried something with a little more bite.”
“Are you suggesting I try you?” Emma asked as she lowered herself to sit beside the redheaded woman on the couch. She reached out, running a calloused hand along the soft silky skin the short skirt Zelena wore didn’t cover.
“I did no such thing!” Zelena pretended to act scandalized before a devious smirk lit up her face. “Though it certainly would anger my Mother and Jupiter knows that would be worth it to me.”
“I was unaware you were a religious woman.”
“Religion has its uses even in this hellhole we’ve created.” Zelena shrugged.
Jupiter was the reining Goddess in the churches of Cerres. A sweet woman with that helped the poor and comforted the sick, she was the patron saint that most of the upper class worshiped and yet Emma couldn’t find it in herself to play their games. Anyone who was anyone attended services, held in a beautiful chapel on a hill that faced away from the slums that surrounded most of the higher buildings where the upper crust lived. The closer to the walls one went, the more squalor they would see after all. Jupiter was often cited as the reasons the upper crust kept pets. After all her own pet, Venus was often depicted on her knees before Jupiter’s throne, pinned there by a chain around her neck that connected to the throne Jupiter sat on.
“I thought you were content with your place as your Mother’s heir apparent.”
The sneer on the redhead’s pretty lips said it all before her pretty face smoothed out and she glanced at Emma.
“I know why you’re here and I know what you want and my answer will depend on what you intend to do for me.”
I’m steadily working on a new chapter of this since it’s been forever and I’m very sorry about that. Life is incredibly busy right now and in the foreseeable future. So I thought while I’m working on making Maid Marion’s Chastity Belt from Men in Tights today with my best friend that I’d release a preview of the new chapter if everyone wants it. It’ll be up fairly shortly as in the next twenty minutes or so and I’ll pull this down. I hope you enjoy!
This is the Amazing Person Award!Once you are given this award you are supposed to paste it in the ask of 8 different people who deserve it.if you break the chain nothing will happen,but it's sweet to know someone thinks you're amazing inside&out ❤️
awww bunso ❤️ thank you for sending this back i wubb you. hop e you’re having a nice dayyyyyyyyyyy~~~
Pairings: EmmaxRegina, others mentioned throughout
Author's Notes: Good Gods this one took forever! I need to apologize for that. School has kept me insanely busy these past few months. I had a complete asshole for a professor that made my life hell. May have to deal with him again we'll see. I've had this one mostly done for about a month now but I lost inspiration about halfway through. I decided to try and bang the rest of out today and here's what we got. I am steadily working on business as well as tics today. If you haven't checked it out, my business is called The Nerd Spa. We sell nerdy bath products (Once is one of our lines actually!) tell your friends and check it out! It can be found on Etsy and on Facebook. As is I hope you enjoy this chapter and please let me know what you think if you feel so inclined.
Regina felt her body grow cold as she stared at Jefferson. He frowned back at her.
“Why?”
“Rub salt in the wound? I don’t know. She and Emma have a complicated history. Emma stands up to her in ways no one else ever has.”
She folded her arms over her stomach and moved to sit beside him. He shifted and slid an arm around her, which she allowed without a word.
“Is that why we’re in here instead of out there with them?”
“I can only assume so.” Jefferson sighed. “I’m worried.” He confessed softly. “It’s not a good thing that she’s here.”
“So you’ve said.” Regina snipped and then took a breath and released it gently. “I’m sorry. I’m just nervous.”
“I know. It’s all right.”
They stayed close to each other, both anxious and waiting until they were told it was safe to come out. Regina bunched the rumpled blankets up in her hands, knotting the fabric before unknotting it only to do it again. The longer she and Jefferson remained locked up, the more anxious she grew. What was happening out there? Why was this happening? Her frustration only grew as her anxiety topped out. When the door finally slid open, she jumped up practically sprinting and skidding to a halt when she noted the tall blonde man standing there and not Mistress. She stood on her tiptoes, looking over his shoulder trying to see Emma but she was nowhere nearby.
“Where is my Mistress?” She asked, looking at the blonde man standing in her way.
“She’s still speaking with the Mayor in her home office. Jefferson,” He looked past her as the man in question rose to his unsteady feet.
“Yes sir?” He asked, dropping his chin to his chest to show some respect.
Regina frowned, refusing to bow her head.
“Why?”
David stared at her hard for a moment before a small smile broke out across his face. “You know most pets won’t ask that sort of question.”
“I have a right to know.”
“Do you?”
“Regina,” Jefferson said softly.
“She’s our Mistress Jefferson and anything that effects her effects us.” She twisted to look at him before turning back to David. “So?” She wouldn’t let him get away without saying anything to her.
David’s broad shoulders shook as a deep chuckle emanated from deep in his belly. He smirked as he looked at the fierce look on his sister’s pet’s face before he dipped his head.
“Our Mayor is a complicated woman with complicated ideals.” He began and Regina cocked her head. “What does that have to do with my Mistress?”
“Emma…was…is very good at what she does…things that are lost tend to be found…by her.” He paused, folding his arms across his chest. “Our Mayor wants something…something that was lost…she thinks Emma can find it.”
“What is it?” Regina asked, cocking her head, forgetting for a moment to show the older man respect. Jefferson limped towards them and set his hands on her shoulders. She lifted a hand, resting it on his larger hand as they both studied their owner’s brother.
“I’m not sure.” He said honestly. “I was at work when the Mayor showed up…she demanded I bring Emma to her but I couldn’t get a hold of her in time before she grew too impatient so we came here.”
Regina released a small breath and nodded, “So she’s going to send Emma away from me again?”
“I don’t know.” David answered honestly.
“Regina,” Jefferson said her name softly and she shook her head.
“Are you staying until she leaves?” Regina asked, ignoring the way Jefferson tried to get her attention.
“I don’t have much of a choice. I need to know what insane act she’s demanded of my sister…again. And how long I’m going to be away from my own wife because of it.”
“You’ll go with her Sir?” Jefferson asked.
“Of course I will. I don’t let her do things alone even if she may want it that way in some futile attempt to keep me safe.”
Regina frowned, “When she’s gone, you’ll send our Mistress to us.”
David cocked his head at the command. Jefferson flinched anticipating the hit that didn’t come. The man merely offered a small smile. “You’re very good for my sister. Much better than Belle was.”
Regina parted her lips to speak but no sounds came out. She was better than Belle? She was so taken aback that David’s next words barely registered.
“Once she’s done and we’ve had time to discuss our options, I’ll be certain she comes to you.”
“Thank you Sir.” Jefferson dipped his head as the man left, shutting the door with a light click.
“I’m better than Belle?” Regina asked, turning to look at Jefferson.
He frowned at her, “You shouldn’t have acted like that Regina. No matter how upset or anxious you are.”
She shook his hands off of her and moved to sit on her bed. She looked down at her hands and then clenched them into fists. “If I’m better for her than Belle was then there must be some way I can keep her safe.”
“What are you talking about Regina?” Jefferson stared at her wide-eyed.
“There must be something we can do to stop her from going on some type of suicide mission dreamed up by a mad woman.”
“There’s not and you know it.”
“But surely…”
“Regina, stop this. You’re acting crazy. You have no place in society, no pull with the upper class. You’re a pet and nothing more.”
“But…”
“But nothing. You are beneath them and you always will be. The only reason we exist is there entertainment. We live and we die by their whims.”
“But Emma’s not like that.”
“Yes she is. She still operates in their society, her friends, her family, are all-apart of that society. We aren’t and we never will be. You’re not her wife Regina. You’re her pet. You’ll never be her wife.”
Regina frowned as she looked at him. “Why are you being so cruel?”
Jefferson shook his head. “I don’t want you getting hurt Regina. You overestimate your place and you need to understand what sort of world we live in.”
“You keep saying this to me like I don’t know what I’m looking at. I know what I am and what I am to Emma but she cares for me and I care for her and if I ask, I think she’ll at least listen to what I have to say.”
“Don’t get your feelings hurt if she doesn’t listen to what you have to say.” He warned.
“I won’t.” Regina smiled softly at him and he returned it.
“Learn how to behave even if you’re worried.” He requested and she nodded.
“Okay, I’ll try.”
She offered him a small smile to which he returned. “Wait here, I’ll go and see what I can find out.”
She nodded, folding her hands primly in her lap. As soon as the door was shut, she gave it a few moments before she shot off the bed and moved down the hall. She stopped close to the doorway of the home office that was cracked enough for her to see in. She blinked in shock, the Mayor was sitting behind the desk and her Mistress was pacing in front of her.
“I cannot guarantee that I can even find what you need Madame Mayor.” Emma was saying.
“You’ll find it, you always do. I need it returned to me where it belongs.”
Emma frowned, “Is a person really an object?”
“It is when it’s my child. She’s been missing a long time.” The Mayor paused and cocked her head. “Your pet is outside the door.”
Regina tensed with a small gasp. She was so sure she’d not been able to be seen but apparently she was incorrect. “Bring her here.”
“Madam Mayor…I…” Emma shifted on her heel and marched towards the door her expression thunderous as she gripped Regina’s forearm and pulled her into the room. “What did I tell you?” She muttered as she moved Regina into the center of the room.
The Mayor rose from behind the desk, her heels sinking into the thick carpet as she moved towards them.
“A pretty girl, where did you find her?”
“Sidney and his boys had her.” Emma offered, trying to keep her tone neutral. She tensed when the Mayor reached out, sliding her fingers along her pet’s cheek and into her hair but to her surprise Regina didn’t move merely allowed the touch.
“She is untrained.”
“We’re working on it.”
“Yet you haven’t sent her to the training houses. Why?”
“I…um…I believed it was best to train her myself. She requires a firm hand that the training houses don’t offer.”
“That’s nonsense. You chose to keep her home because you couldn’t bare to be parted from her.”
“Madam Mayor…I…”
“I’ve seen enough Miss Swan. You will do as I ask and then you will continue to operate your company with my blessing.”
Emma took a breath and dipped her head, “If that is what you wish.”
The Mayor’s sharp eyes, studied the girl’s face cocking her head. “What is her name?”
“My pet? Um…Regina…”
“Regina…means Queen in Latin. A very pretty name for a very pretty pet, however did you come up with it?”
“She was named that when I bought her from the slavers.”
Cora nodded, “Hunt within the city. I have a feeling you’ll find it there.”
“Of course. I will keep my search local and then expand outward as needed.”
“See to it that you do.” Cora finally released the hand she was twisting into Regina’s hair. She studied her face for a few moments longer before heading out of the office without another word.
Regina was stunned, she looked at her Mistress who was staring right back at her and then at the door.
“Why did she touch me like that?” She asked, “I thought no one was allowed to touch me but you and Jefferson?”
“It seems you’ve caught her attention. That’s why I told you to stay with Jefferson.”
“She was going to send you on a suicide mission! I...I was worried.” Regina fidgeted, looking down as she tried not to let her anxiety show too much.
“You should’ve done as you were told, even if you were worried. The Mayor is a dangerous woman and not someone that should be messed with pet.”
“I’m back to being pet?”
“You’ve always been pet but now…you need to learn discipline.”
“I can’t be concerned when you could die?”
“Everything I do is for you and Jefferson. I keep you two safe and that’s all that should matter to you.”
“Well it doesn’t; your life matters to us and we want you safe. I want you safe…why is that so difficult?”
“You aren’t my wife Regina. You are my pet and nothing more. Get it through your skull…you don’t have any authority over my decisions and you never will. You will never be anything more to me than what you are right now.”
Regina grasped her chest, feeling as though someone had stabbed her through the heart at the harsh words and yet she continued to press on without knowing she was doing exactly the wrong thing in the eyes of society but not in the eyes of her Mistress.
“And if I was Belle? If Belle asked you not to do this, not to commit suicide by way of going out there? What would you do? Would you say the same things to her?”
“What did I tell you about mentioning her?” Emma’s eyes were cold as ice, her voice dropped an octave with anger.
“What would you do?” Regina demanded, ignoring the danger that she was putting herself into.
“That’s enough,” David stepped into the room, pushing his growling sister away. “She’s only concerned for your safety Emma. She loves you. She’s not trying to hurt you.” He spoke softly near his sister’s ear. Regina took a breath, knowing each word he spoke was true. She didn’t say a word as she dropped her head to her chest.
“She knows better.”
“She only wants what’s best for you. Just like we all do. Everyone in this house loves you and wants you safe. This mission is dangerous and not because of the revenants beyond the walls. This goes back a long ways and the more you uncover, the more danger you place not only yourself but Regina and Jefferson into.”
“I can’t refuse.”
“No, but you can be smart about it. Take the rest of the day off, spend time with your pet and Jefferson and tomorrow we’ll figure out a game plan.”
“She’s not going to like that you know?”
“I don’t really care and I don’t think you do either.” David laid his hands on his sister’s shoulders and squeezed gently. “Do what you must today but stay away until tomorrow.”
Emma glared at him for a moment before nodding. “Fine…what will you do in the mean time?”
“I’ll see what I can find out. You just relax until I get something concrete okay?”
Emma nodded and allowed her brother to step away. Once he was out of the room, her eyes fell on her pet.
