#maria loves to meddle okay she just wants her son to be happy but she also wants to have her fun

[robertdowneyjjr]

so none of this is what any of you asked for, but part 3 of the stonyclunks soulmates au @stark-and-shield @polizwrites @soliloquent-stark

(parts one and two)

tony spends his flight home from london agonizing over what he should do next.

on the one hand, his feelings about captain america haven’t changed. if anything, he’s now even more adamant that he wants nothing to do with him, because not only does tony now have proof that cap is a total dick, he also now feels like all that childhood trauma?? was the result of a lie. now he knows that he grew up being compared to someone who isn’t even really as great as his dad made him seem. so maybe now he has some validation (and vindication) that howard was wrong. but still, he could have just done without the years of feeling like he wasn’t good enough.

on the other hand, he’s a hopeless romantic at heart and he’s always dreamed of meeting and growing old with his soulmate. he grew up surrounded by them — his parents are soulmates. ana and edwin jarvis are soulmates. aunt peggy and uncle daniel are soulmates. that nature-defying love has always been the shining example of what real happiness is to him and he’s been desperate for it since he was 25, the average age when people meet their soulmates. the fact that he lived until he was 38 and still never met his soulmate had hurt him everyday. and sure, he’s happy in other ways. he’s content with how his life has turned out. he has amazing friends. he has a family that supports him. but god, he wants to share it with someone who he knows is fated to be his.

now, he’s kind of annoyed that he and his dad have another thing in common, what with howard not meeting maria until he was in his 40’s. and at this point he’s starting to think that being soulmates with captain america is some sort of sick cosmic joke that the universe is playing on him.

also he’s really, really pissed that the words that are permanently marked on his skin are so ugly.

at dinner before their night at the opera, tony tells maria, “mama, i met my soulmate.”

“oh that’s wonderful, antonio! tell me all about them!”

maria can hardly contain her excitement, and tony feels awful that the news he’s about to share isn’t worth her feeling this happy about.

“it was two weeks ago, a total accident. he was really mean,” he explains softly. if they weren’t in public right now he might even have just shown her the words on his thigh, but he knows her protective instincts would rear their head immediately and she’d skip the opera just to get started on hunting down the man who spit such vitriol at her son.

“oh. well, has he apologized for it?” maria asks. “i hope he has some basic manners, at least. i won’t allow someone who treats my son such poorly into the family, whether you’re soulmates or not.”

“he… has. quite dramatically,” tony says, thinking about the instagram post that had been causing a media frenzy for a week now.

“well, good. he should know you’re to be treasured,” maria sniffs. “when will i get to meet him?”

“i haven’t seen him again since. i don’t know if i really want to.”

“why not, bambino? you’ve always wanted to meet your soulmate.”

“mama… it’s captain america.”

maria looks around the restaurant. “where? i thought howard was with him tonight. crazy old man, still thinks he’s in his prime and trying to keep up with people half his age.”

“no, mama. my soulmate. he’s captain america.”

“oh. oh dear.”

“yeah.” tony picks up his fork and starts eating again. “i think i might just be better off dying alone.”

maria doesn’t know whether to laugh or cry. suddenly all the excessive whining from steve that howard has been telling her about makes a lot more sense. she knows that steve is a good man. maybe not perfect like howard always made him out to be. but kind, nonetheless. he would be good to tony, good for him, she’s sure. tony just needs to give him a chance.

but also, like she said, tony should be treasured. if steve wants to make up for how they started off, he needs to pull out all the stops. tony deserves nothing less than the best, after all. and to be honest, maria thinks she might enjoy watching steve grovel a bit. she’s also looking forward to making fun of howard for having such an idiot as a best friend and future son-in-law.

so she starts planning.

“tonio, darling, why don’t you stay over at the mansion tonight? ana was just saying we haven’t had brunch with you in ages.”

“sure, mama.”

under the table, she texts howard.

M: is steve still pouting about his life?

H: unfortunately. i’m just glad beer does nothing for him. i can’t imagine how much worse this all could be if he were drunk.

M: poor boy. maybe he’s also feeling a bit lonely. there are plenty of rooms in the mansion if he doesn’t want to go home to an empty apartment tonight.

H: he might like that. i’ll let him know.

#maria loves to meddle okay she just wants her son to be happy but she also wants to have her fun #while writing this i also just realized that howard should be basically on his deathbed now he’s so old #but let’s just say… when you meet your soulmate you start aging slower. okay yes let’s go with that #stonyclunks soulmates au #stevetony #stony #kay writes things

[itsany62]

SteveTony - Alternate Universe

Here are some Alternate Universe fics that I love. Don't forget to leave kudos and nice comments in every fic!

Food for the Heart, by LagLemon, 14 k >, Cooking, No Powers.

After being introduced to a gourmet food on a budget blog by Pepper (a gift for her elderly, cheapskate mother) Tony starts cooking again. The recipes are good, but the blog owner is even better. Still, Tony isn't so sure Captain America, the guy who runs the blog, can compete with Hot Bagboy, the gorgeous blond who works at the grocery store.

"Free to Good Home" by Captain_Panda, 7 k > words, Alternate Universe - Animals.

"Oliver and Company" AU.

There's a great big world outside the box.

But it's a dog-eat-dog world, and Tony's just one cat. Then a stray dog comes along, looking for a friend.

A Day In Principal Stark's Office, by nannersmelo, 10 k > words, Steve Single Parent, Director Tony.

Tony Stark has his hands full with not only Stark Industries, but also his beloved mother's life project: The Maria Stark Academy, and as he enters his office in order to deal with a ferocious mother whose son was apparently assaulted by one of his brightest students, he was sure this day would culminate in nothing but a heinous headache. Little did he know - he was in for one hell of a surprise.

I Am the Night by gottalovev, 6 k > words, Alternate Universe - Vampire, Vampire Tony Stark, Wizard Steve Rogers.

That's it. Tony is doomed. He rolls on his back, crosses his wings over his belly and closes his eyes. He'll await death here, misunderstood by the world to the bitter end.

C is for Calculus and Compromise, by heydoeydoey, 11 k>, Gifted AU, Post-Divorce, Angts with a Happy Ending.

Steve's just trying to give his prodigy daughter a normal childhood. Enter a meddling school administrator, Tony Stark, and too many lawyers.

tell you my love for you by jelliebean, 22 k > words, Alternate Universe - Normal High School, Based on Love Simon.

A guy at Shield High comes out on tumblr, anonymously. Tony thought he was the only gay guy on campus--not out, because of Howard--and sends him an email.

“Hey, Flying. Same here. I’ve got a secret too, and it’s like I’m hiding who I am, every day. From everyone. All the closest people to me. But I just can’t tell them. I’m gay, too. It feels like I’m putting on this mask, this shell of who I think they want me to be. Even though I don’t think my friends would judge me. I don’t know why. I just. I’ve got a secret. –Shell”

The guy seems great--amazing, even, and then Hammer has to step in and ruin it all.

Mergers & Acquisitions by Robin_tCJ, 33 k > words, Angst, sex as currency.

Steve Rogers is the CEO of the Rogers Corporation, which he built from the ground up. When he learns that Hydra International is making a bid for a hostile takeover of Stark Industries, he decides he has to do what he can to stop Hydra from overtaking the market and becoming an unstoppable, unethical conglomerate. Tony Stark asks for something Steve isn’t sure he should give, but he does it anyway – and it completely changes everything. But when Hydra keeps coming, Steve and Tony realize there’s more to this than they’d realized.

Meeting the Monsters by itsallAvengers, 23 k > words, Alternate Universe - High School, Alternate Universe - Creatures & Monsters.

Tony's at public school with kids his age for the first time in seventeen years, and he is determined that this year is gonna be his year. He's going to make friends. He's going to be popular. People will like him.

Unsurprisngly, none of that actually happens.

He does sort-of-maybe fall in love with a vampire in his class that everyone is terrified of, though. So... there's that.

(I Want You To See) The Darkest Side Of Me by ann2who, 45 k > words, Alternate Universe - No Powers, Alternate Universe - Fusion, Post-World War II.

In Monte Carlo, Steve meets the wealthy widower Anthony Stark. It’s love at first sight—at least for Steve—and he can’t believe his luck when Tony asks him to live at Stark Mansion, his large estate in Malibu. Never in his life had Steve thought something like this was possible… never had he been this happy. However, soon Steve realizes that Tony is still deeply troubled by the death of his first wife and haunted by the many ghosts she left behind. The longer Steve lives in her shadow, the more he understands that… He can never be what Tony’s wife had once been for him. And Tony might never truly love him.

Gift With Purchase Remix by sabrecmc, 43 k > words, Alternate Universe - No Powers, hooker Steve, Sugar Daddy.

Gift With Purchase Remix wherein Steve actually is a hooker. But for a Really Sympathetic Reason.

The Little Glass Screwdriver by ann2who, 19 k > words, Cinderella AU.

When Prince Steven is forced to find himself a bride, true love gets in the way. As the night of the grand ball unfolds, the prince meets a mysterious knight who might just change his entire life in a way he could have never imagined.

**Cinderella AU**

Covered in Lines by royal_chandler, 3 k > words, Alternate Universe - Student/Teacher, Alternate Universe - College/University, Age Difference.

He can’t lose sight of pale, deft hands that gesture on transitive verbs, an ink-stained thumb edging underneath Tony’s ribcage with an affection that can only be called dangerous.

half-wild and glimmering by deathsweetqueen , 15 k > words, Alternate Universe - Western, Prostitution.

“Give me a drink, Tasha,” Tony sighs as he lands in front of the bar. “I’ve had one hell of a day.”

Natasha raises an eyebrow. “Have you really?” she asks, loftily, sliding a tumbler of whiskey along the well-polished wood.

Tony lets his head hang, the sweat beading on the back of his neck. “You wouldn’t believe what I’ve had to put myself through today,” he sighs, wearily.

“I would not know. You will not let me work the rooms,” Natasha retorts, her voice a little strained, busying her hands in a dirty glass.

“I don’t let you work the rooms ‘cause you’re liable to kill anyone who touches ya the wrong way and we can’t lose that much of our business,” Tony reminds her, wryly amused, sipping at his whiskey. He shakes his head at the burn. “We peddle flesh, darling, not death.”

peers, fears and holiday cheers by jacobby, 24 k > words, Parent Tony Stark.

“He’s only two years older than you,” Tony finally says when the silence becomes too much to bear.

“Dad, Teddy is turning twenty-seven next year.”

“I am not dating your husband—”

“I’m not implying you are. I just want you to be...aware that he’s practically the same age as my husband.”

AKA

Tony Stark's new boyfriend is only two years older than his adult sons. Telling them is one thing, introducing them is another. What Tony doesn't expect is that the past always has a way of catching up to him, of biting him in the ass when he least expects it. Well, at least they're all together for the Holidays. What more can he ask for?

A Higher Form of War by sabrecmc, 292 k > words, Alternate Universe - Fantasy, Historical Romance.

Tony is a King with a surprising number of people out to kill him. Steve and the rest of the Avengers are fighting for Pierce's rebellion and end up with Tony as their prisoner. Oops.

you can call me babe for the weekend by complicationstoo, 10 k > words, Alternate Universe - No Powers, actor Tony Stark.

Tony left his small town for Los Angeles after high school, leaving behind everything to pursue his dream. Ten years later, he comes back for the first time and finds that some things are impossible to let go of.

Lord, What Fools These Mortals Be by iam93percentstardust, 72 k > words, Alternate Universe - Theatre.

Famed director Phil Coulson brings Shakespeare’s beloved play, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, to Broadway. This production though comes with a twist: a brief but passionate love affair between the faerie king, Oberon, and his attendant, Puck. In the roles of the two star-crossed lovers, Coulson casts America’s darling Steve Rogers, fresh off his third Academy Award, and Broadway royalty, Tony Stark. Steve quickly finds himself falling for the quick-witted and sarcastic actor but Tony is dating the stage manager. Unwilling to come between the seemingly happy couple, Steve steps back but all isn’t right behind the scenes and Tony may need him when everything falls apart.

and so we rebuild by raeldaza, 26 k > words, Alternate Universe - Star Trek Fusion, Soulmates, Mutual Pining.

Sometimes, a voice whispers: you will never atone for your mistakes.

Tony believes that, believes it so strongly some days he drowns in it, but he still tries. Tries through Starfleet, tries through inventions, tries through missions. Then, one day, he meets his new Captain, and things change.

and teach this heart (how to beat with light), by starklystar, 40 k >, AU Hospital, Single parent Steve.

Eight years ago, at a funeral with a baby's cries ringing in his ears, Tony Stark decided to turn his life around. He's a genius, billionaire, philanthropist. What's so hard to adding 'doctor' to that list? And after that, it can't be that hard to add 'husband' and 'father' too, right? But the past has a way of haunting even the very best of us, and in any universe, Tony Stark and Steve Rogers have never had an easy love.

Featuring: drama, chaos, Peter's scheming, meddling friends, and doctors learning again that the heart can never be as simple as four chambers and four valves.

Catching Lightning in a Bottle by sabrecmc, 120 k > words, Alternate Universe - Sweet Home Alabama Fusion.

College student Tony meets janitor Steve at MIT and they fall blissfully in love, until Howard happens and things fall apart. One divorce paperwork snafu courtesy of the ever-helpful Jarvis, and ten years later, Tony has to get re-divorced from Steve.

This does not go as he imagines.

Or, the Sweet Home Alabama AU that no one--well, okay, a few of you--asked for.

The Night Shift by weethreequarter , 16 k > words, Alternate Universe - Hospital.

Welcome to the Emergency Department of San Antonio General where Dr. Tony Stark joins the team fresh from his most recent tour in Afghanistan and - much to the consternation of the other staff - strikes up an instant rapport with Nurse Steve Rogers. Meanwhile, new resident Bruce Banner refuses to give up on his patient, and Dr. Sharon Carter learns something from her own patients. Throw in a pissed off hospital administrator, Clint using the coffee pot as a mug again, and a major car crash and you have, well, just another night shift.

Cake It Till You Make It by ChocolateCapCookie, 10 k > words, Kid Fic, Alternate Universe - Bakery.

Steve Rogers and Tony Stark have a lot in common. They're single parents, they own rival bakeries at the center of town... and they both hate each other's guts.

When a mix-up at Peter and Morgan's school has both fathers scrambling to prove they're the better baker, they do the mature, adult thing and compete in a bake-off. Between the mixing and the creaming, the baking and the icing, Steve and Tony find that hate is actually not that far from love.

Looking for Heaven by foxxcub, 31 k > words, Alternate Universe - Regency, Marriage of Convenience.

When young Lord Anthony Stark learns Steven Rogers has enlisted in the army, he thinks he's seen the last of his tiny, headstrong, haughty stable boy. But four years later, Lord Stark gets an unexpected visit from Steve, whose mother has fallen gravely ill and into financial ruin. Even more unexpected, Steve agrees to a shocking proposal: they will marry, giving Steve the necessary funds to save his mother, and Tony the much-needed reprieve from harassing would-be suitors. It is a business arrangement, nothing more. But as time goes on and circumstances arise, Tony begins to learn that keeping his heart away from his husband is easier said than done.

just a guy, standing in front of another guy by theappleppielifestyle, 12 k > words.

“It’s not real,” Tony says, still smiling, jaw twitching with effort. “The fame. It’s - I’m just a guy."

(Or, Notting Hill AU, with a twist.)

Mother of Exiles (A Titanic AU) by BladeoftheNebula, 21 k > words, Alternate Universe - Titanic Fusion.

“You’ll never guess what just happened!” Steve said, taking a deep breath to try and calm his breathing. “I met someone. A guy from first class.”

Dublin 1912: Steve Rogers is barely making ends meet, living in the tenement slums of Dublin. But a stroke of good luck gives him and his best friend the chance to change their fortune. Two tickets to America on board the RMS Titanic.

The Devil You Know by shetlandowl, 17 k > words, Alternate Universe - Detectives, Alternate Universe - Author/Novelist.

Best selling author Tony Stark revives the bodice ripper genre for a modern audience. From frisky gay cowboys to ravenous lesbian pirate queens, he consistently delivers riveting thrillers full of romance, drama, and the filthy, unapologetically kinky sex that has become his trademark specialty.

Tony has everything a man could dream of - horny, adoring fans, and boatloads of money. Or that's what he thought, until Detective Steve Rogers walks into his life and turns it all upside down.

Bears and Mountains and Lumberjacks Oh My! by justanotherrollingstony (adoctoraday), 24 k > words, Alternate Universe - No Powers, Lumberjack Steve Rogers.

It was supposed to be easy--go meet the reclusive artist and buy some art. And then came the broken down car. And the snowstorm. And the lumberjack with a face like a greek god. So yea, Tony is stuck in a cabin in the woods with a hot lumberjack till the storm clears. Could be worse.

Series: A Furious Vexation by Annie D (scaramouche), 18 k > words, Alternate Universe - Post-Apocalypse.

A Steve/Tony post-apocalypse AU that exists pretty much just for the smut.

That Feline Beat by Tito11, 5 k > words, Alternate Universe - Animals.

Presenting Steve and Tony in the Aristocats!AU

Tony and his three kittens have been kidnapped from their fancy Upper East Side apartment while their owners are away and deposited on the mean streets of Harlem. Unsure of where they are or how to get back home, they'll have to rely on street cat Steve to guide them. Will they get home safely? Will Tony's fear of abandonment cause him to drive away the best tomcat he's ever known? Only time will tell.

do you fondue? by calciseptine, 16 k > words, Alternate Universe - Modern Setting.

Tony has done crazy things in the name of food, but falling in love with Steve Rogers really takes the cake.

a glimpse of heaven's love by parkrstark, 13 k> words, Alternate Universe - No Powers, Terminal Illnesses.

The child begins to empty his pockets. He starts to count coins on the counter. Tony huffs a little impatiently as he realizes most of them are pennies.

The cashier actually humors the kid and counts along with him. They reach 3 dollars and 54 cents before he shakes his head sadly. "Sorry, kid. There's not enough here."

The kid sounds close to crying. "I need these paints for my Papa. It's Christmas Eve and these...he doesn't have any. The doctors said he doesn't have long. I want him to have these. In case he meets Jesus tonight, I want him to paint one more time. Please."

Tony takes a step forward, arms still full of toys he's buying just because. He can cover this child's gift for his dying father. Money. Money is what he's good for.

"I'll buy them."

--

Or, the Christmas Shoes AU no one but me asked for.

If you survive first impressions, you're good to go by itsallAvengers, 3 k > words, Parent Tony Stark, Alternate Universe - No Powers.

The first time Peter Parker-Stark sees Steve Rogers, he may or may not be standing in direct path of the man's motorcycle.

His daddy is really not going to be happy about that one.

A Rat-ional Conclusion by BladeoftheNebula, 6 k > words, Alternate Universe - No Powers, Alternate Universe - Veterinarians, Parent Tony Stark.

He had a strong flurry of patients throughout the morning and by the time it rolled around to noon, he was just about worn out.

He walked out into the reception, stretching until he felt a satisfying pop. “Are we done?”

Bucky checked the screen. “Just about. One more before lunch - a rat, singular.”

Steve breathed a sigh of relief. Hopefully straight forward then. “Great, let me know when they-”

He was interrupted by the bell over the door and looked up to see a little girl cradling a small animal carrier, being shepherded through the door by easily one of the hottest men he’d ever seen in real life.

Oh wow.

Tidal Pull by sabrecmc, 97 k > words, Octopus Tony Stark, Alternate Universe - Shipwrecked.

After the American Civil War, Union soldier Steve Rogers takes a chance on an opportunity to sail with the Stark Trading Company down in the Caribbean. During a terrible storm, his ship is lost. To his surprise, he survives, and ends up stranded on an island that isn't quite as deserted as he first thinks.

Or, a reverse Little Mermaid tale where Steve has to fall for the fish-man.

Twelve Days by elysianprince, 22 k > words, Alternate Universe - No Powers, Alternate Universe - Ghosts.

In which Tony finds himself in a town that looks like it crawled out of a Hallmark Christmas movie, trying to sell an inn he didn't know he owned, all while dealing with Steve Rogers, the resident ghost who has returned to haunt the inn each December during the twelve days of Christmas for the past seventy years. Tony has only one logical solution that benefits them both: break the curse that binds him - but falling for a man almost a century old wasn't among his plans.

She kissed me by S_Horne, 1 k > words, Tony Stark Needs a Hug, Howard Stark's A+ Parenting.

“Your mom kissed me.”

Steve blinked awake and lifted his head from his pillow to look over at the silhouette in the doorway. “What?”

“Your mom,” Tony reiterated. “She kissed me.”

“Yeah,” Steve said simply, “she does that.”

#stevetony #stony #fic rec #tony stark #steve rogers #my recs

[swanqueeneverafter]

The Once & Future Queen Pt.17

Storybrooke. Swan-Mills House. (While Henry puts Maria to bed upstairs, Ella stares at the token from Flynn's in her hand. Noticing a half empty glass on the coffee table, Ella picks it up and takes it to the kitchen. Suddenly stopping in the hallway, Ella thinks for a moment and places the glass on the floor. Hurrying back to the living room Ella lays back on the couch. Closing her eyes, she takes a deep breath and then tosses the token over her head. Upon hearing a 'plink', Ella opens her eyes and sits up to look back at the glass. As the water swirls, Ella smiles, having just found the sign she needed.)

Camelot. Guinevere’s Chambers. (Guinevere brushes her hair and checks it in a small mirror when someone knocks on the door. She opens it to find Arthur leaning against the door frame with a charming smile. She’s surprised.) Arthur: “May I come in? (Guinevere is disturbed:) I only want to wish you well.” (Guinevere smiles uneasily and opens the door for him.) Guinevere: “I never thought I’d see you again.” Arthur: “I know. When the veil separating our worlds was torn, I was watching from the other side. I saw you standing there at the altar. Then when I saw the sacrifice Robin Hood made as he walked through the veil, it was his courage that inspired me to return.” Guinevere: “For what purpose, to reclaim your throne, perhaps?” Arthur: “Of course not. You have made a wonderful Queen, Guin. You are the leader Camelot deserves. Your love for your people is surpassed only by your love for Lancelot. I came here to make amends. (Arthur pulls out a cloth and unwraps the bracelet:) Please, take this as a token of my sincerest apology. May it bring continued good fortune for you and for Camelot. (Guinevere looks at the bracelet sceptically. Holding it up:) I’d like you to wear it. (Taking her hand, Arthur places the bracelet on her wrist. Guinevere gives him a small smile. She tenses uncomfortably when Arthur steps closer and takes her face in his hands. He kisses her forehead and she relaxes with a relieved sigh and smile:) I wish you and Lancelot everlasting happiness, Guin.” (He looks back at her with a smile and leaves. Guinevere smiles back, but it fades as she looks uncertainly down at the bracelet.)

Storybrooke. Granny's Diner. (While David bounces Maria in his arms, the ladies of Storybrooke catch up over morning coffee.) Lily: (Laughing:) "I can't believe you got stuck in the past and still managed to bang Regina." Emma: "Hey it's not like I planned it to happen. Mulan can back me up, we had no intention of meddling with the past." Mulan: "That's true, but once you did bump into Regina, you didn't try very hard to not see her again." Ruby: "Well I think it's sweet. Almost as if Emma and Regina were meant to be no matter the circumstances." Snow White: (Clearing her throat loudly:) "My daughter's love life aside, I'd like to get back to your announcement. You and Regina are planning to retire?" Emma: (Nods:) "Yep, we've been talking about it for awhile now. The Sheriff's office is running smoothly and Lily's practically Sheriff now anyway so it's not like I need to be there. And as far as the Mayor's office goes, you-" Snow White: (Cutting in:) "I don't want to be Mayor. I was only helping Regina out while you were gone. I-I love to teach, I don't want to be anything else." David: "Wouldn't there need to be an election for a new Mayor? I don't think it's a position you can just pass on to your friends and family." Emma: "Sure, and it's the same with Lily for Sheriff, she'll need to stand as a candidate." Lily: (Confidently:) "I'm not too worried about it." Mulan: "Especially since you have the outgoing Sheriff's backing." Lily: (Leans back in her chair:) "Mmhmm. Piece of cake." Snow White: "That's all well and good, but it still leaves us without a candidate for Mayor." Emma: "Well, I guess Regina and I can think of some names." Ruby: "Ooh, I can see the posters now: 'Vote Maleficent For Mayor'. Has a nice ring to it actually." Lily: (Considers this:) "Mom might enjoy being Mayor. I mean, can you think of a better people person?" (Everyone laughs, apart from Snow White.) Snow White: "You know what? I don't mind being in charge of finding a new Mayor. I'm sure you and Regina will have better things to with your time." Lily: "Yeah, like each other." Emma: (Elbows Lily in the ribs:) "O-okay, if you're sure?" Snow White: (Smiles:) "I'm sure." Emma: "Thanks, Mom."

(Sitting at the counter, Elsa, Anna and Belle reminisce.) Elsa: "It's so weird to think that I met Mulan and Emma in the past but for them it was their future." Anna: "No, that's not right is it? I mean, it would still be the past for them, but it was your present? I'm confused." Elsa: "Well all I know is that they were there on the dock when Kristoff and I watched you sail away on your journey to Misthaven." Belle: "It's best not to think too hard about it, but I know what I would do if I could change the past." Anna: "What's that?" Belle: "I'd forget about that stupid stone and would've saved you from falling off the cliff." Anna: (Touching her heart:) "Belle. You don't still think about that, do you?" Belle: (Nods:) "I still feel guilty about it." Anna: (She stands and pulls Belle into a hug:) "There's nothing for you to feel guilty about. It's not like you pushed me. All I remember is you trying to save me. I had no idea you felt this way." Belle: "I guess it's easier to forgive someone else than it is yourself." Anna: (Pulls back and looks Belle in the eyes:) "Well I forgive you, so you should too." Belle: "Thanks." Elsa: "I only wish that more people were able to forgive and forget. It would help unite the realms even more." Belle: (Nods:) "What I've learned from being with Rumple, is that the quest for revenge is a very hard thing to let go of." Lake. Rowboat. (The search for Morgana has taken the foursome across the water as, thanks to Anastasia's magic, they follow Morgana's trail.) Merida: (Glancing over her shoulder while she rows:) "We'll be passing Dun Broch soon at this rate." Anastasia: "Perhaps if we listen closely we'll be able to hear them voting for a new leader? Fickle bunch that they are." Merida: (Gives Anastasia a look:) "There'll be no more challenges to the throne anytime soon. Macintosh and his band of misfits have been taken care of and my mother assumes power in my absence." Anastasia: "How nice for her." Merida: (Looks over her shoulder again:) "Are you sure this is taking us the right way?" Anastasia: "Quite sure, yes. Morgana's power practically oozes from her, that kind of magic always leaves a trace." Merida: "You know, I heard you were living the quiet life with your sister somewhere. What happened?" Anastasia: "Many things, but I suppose mainly when you spend most of your time thinking about all the bad things you've done in your past, you can only despair for so long. Eventually, there comes a point where you decide to do something about it." Merida: "So you're looking for redemption? (Nods to Xena:) You're in good company then." Anastasia: "Redemption is partly why I'm here. Revenge is another." Merida: (Smiles:) "Aye." Anastasia: "But mostly I'm searching for my place in the world. Drizella and I have already found a new sister we never knew we had. Who knows what else lies ahead for me?" Merida: "I'd say a nasty confrontation with Morgana for one thing. Are you sure your powers can match hers?" Anastasia: "There's only one way to find out, darling." (Sitting at the far end of the boat, Xena watches their exchange with curiosity.) Xena: (Quietly to Gabrielle:) "I feel like a chaperone right now. I mean look at them it's-" Gabrielle: (Slumped over the side of the boat:) "Nauseating." Xena: "Well I wouldn't go that far." Gabrielle: "No. I mean this damn boat." Xena: (Shaking her head:) "How can you be seasick in a rowboat?" Gabrielle: "It's the motion of the water, it has nothing to do with what vessel we're in." Xena: "Uh huh. You didn't seem to have problems those times we were rowing away from the Horde." Gabrielle: "Remind me to thank you for your sympathy when we're back on dry land." Xena: "Maybe you should take a turn rowing, it might help take your mind off it?" Gabrielle: "No. I can hardly move, just... let me wallow in my misery." (Xena takes pity on Gabrielle, rubbing her back as she leans over the side.)

Caerleon. Castle. Tunnels. (Morgana arrives outside Caerleon’s castle. She magically opens a door to the tunnels and heads inside. A guard spots her.) Guard: “Halt!” (Another guard steps in her path and she is surrounded.) Morgana: “Please. I mean you no harm. I wish only to speak with your Queen.” Throne Room. (The guards escort Morgana into the throne room and pull off her hood.) Queen Annis: “Morgana Pendragon. Stealing into my castle in the dead of night. You must have a death wish.” Morgana: “Sorry for the interruption, Your Majesty, but I’ve come on urgent business.” Queen Annis: “What business could you possibly have with me, witch?” Morgana: “I come in the name of my father.” Queen Annis: “Is that so?” (Annis stands and approaches Morgana.) Morgana: “Your Highness… (Morgana shoves off the guard holding her, walks up to Queen Annis, and bows down to her knees:) Your Highness, Uther was a curse upon this land, as is his son.” Queen Annis: “Arthur. Your brother?” Morgana: “Arthur is my brother by blood alone. We were not raised as siblings and I knew him only as a knight in my father’s army.” Queen Annis: “Regardless, your brother killed mine. Fergus was slain by Arthur’s hand.” Morgana: “Yes, Your Highness.” Queen Annis: “When news of Fergus’ death reached me I was ready to lead my army into Camelot. But then Arthur was deposed and killed soon after and I saw no need to-” Morgana: “Arthur has returned, Your Highness.” Queen Annis: “What?” Morgana: “My brother has returned from the other side and even now plans to reclaim the throne of Camelot.” Queen Annis: “Well, this changes everything.” Morgana: “Indeed. I seek revenge for wounds they have inflicted, as do you. If you will accept it, I’ve come to offer my help.” Storybrooke. The Dragon’s Lair. Storeroom. (Regina is struggling to move a keg when Rumplestiltskin arrives behind her.) Rumplestiltskin: “It always amazes me. (Regina jumps and glowers at him:) You are one of the most powerful purveyors of magic to ever live and yet you still insist on doing things the hard way.” Regina: “Exercise is good for the soul. Perhaps you should think about that the next time you share a box of doughnuts with your pal, Hook.” Rumplestiltskin: (Pats his stomach:) “I’ll take it under advisement, but that’s not why I’m here.” Regina: (Flatly:) “I’m breathless with anticipation.” Rumplestiltskin: “Belle tells me you and Emma are thinking of retiring.” Regina: “That’s right.” Rumplestiltskin: “Will that be after you’ve both dealt with Morgana?” Regina: (Scoffs:) “I’ve just got my wife back, Rumple. I won’t risk going through that again.” Rumplestiltskin: “You know that your shared magic is the only thing powerful enough to stop Morgana.” Regina: “That’s not true. Zelena handled her pretty well by herself.” Rumplestiltskin: “You expect me to put my faith in Zelena’s temperamental magic? She doesn’t have the discipline to withstand a magical duel against a High Priestess like Morgana.” Regina: “What difference does Morgana being a High Priestess make?” Rumplestiltskin: (Sighs:) “The High Priestesses were the chief servants of the Triple Goddess. They were a group of highly skilled and powerful sorceresses, mistresses of magic and spells and detained the power over life and death. In short, there was a reason the Dark One stayed out of Camelot.” Regina: “So that’s it. You’re afraid. (Rumplestiltskin doesn’t reply:) Well it is not down to Emma and I to save everyone.” (Regina magics herself and the keg out of the storeroom and reappears behind the bar.) Rumplestiltskin: (Following her:) “Perhaps you’re right. But if neither of you are prepared to lift a finger to stop Morgana, that leaves us with only one viable option.”

Camelot. Training Grounds. (Sir Gwaine steadies the punching bag for Lancelot who is pummeling it relentlessly.) Sir Gwaine: “You seem tense.” Lancelot: “What do you mean ‘tense’?” Sir Gwaine: “You know…agitated. On edge. Angry.” Lancelot: “This is not anger, Gwaine. This is controlled aggression!” (Lancelot punches the bag off of the hook and Gwaine falls to the ground with it.) Sir Gwaine: “Great. I’m glad we cleared that up.” (Leon arrives.) Sir Leon: “Sire. A messenger this minute arrived.” Lancelot: “What is it?” Sir Leon: “An army. They crossed our border at first light.” Lancelot: “An army? Whose army?” Sir Leon: “Caerleon’s queen.” Storybrooke. The Dragon's Lair. (Ella fills Henry in about the previous evening.) Henry: "It went in?" Ella: (Nods:) "Hand to God. It was an even trickier shot than the one at the barcade." Henry: "Okay, so what does this mean?" Ella: "I guess it means we find ourselves an adventure." Henry: "Great. So, where to?" Ella: "I don't know. I was hoping you had some ideas?" Henry: "Uh... well geez, I'm not sure. I mean there's lots of places we could go, but..." Ella: (Cuts in:) "The United Realms cover a lot of ground and there's no telling how long it may take us to find something?" Henry: "Exactly. That's not to say I'm not totally down for whatever comes our way." Ella: (Agrees eagerly:) "Absolutely. But maybe..." Henry: "Maybe for the time being we both concentrate on doing the responsible thing? At least until the right opportunity comes along, obviously." Ella: (Nods:) "Obviously. The minute something exciting or dangerous comes our way, we drop everything and-" Henry: "Jump in with both feet." Ella: (Extends her hand:) "Agreed." Henry: (Shakes Ella's hand:) "Agreed." Swan-Mills House. (Descending the staircase, Regina reaches the bottom just as Emma returns home.) Regina: "Hey." Emma: "Hey." (Emma stands on one of the two steps that leads into the house while Regina closes the distance between them. Cupping Emma's face, Regina leans down and kisses her as Emma places her hands on Regina's hips.) Emma: "Mm, good day?" Regina: "Not bad, you?" (Regina continues on to the kitchen while Emma climbs the last step and follows.) Emma: "Yeah I guess. I broke the news to everyone about us retiring."

Regina: (Spins around:) "And?" Emma: "It went pretty well. Lily's more than ready to become Sheriff." Regina: "And Snow?" Emma: (Shakes her head:) "Mom doesn't want to be Mayor, but she's taken on the job of finding someone suitable." Regina: "Well, at least they were accepting of the idea." Emma: "Yeah, although I still get that frosty feeling from Snow. I can't believe she's pissed that I was the mistress of my own wife back in the past." Regina: (Chuckles:) "Snow will always be Daddy’s little girl. Just like her daughter. (Emma smirks:) If it makes you feel any better, my day wasn't much better." Emma: "Oh?" Regina: "I had a visit from Rumple." Emma: "Ah. Let me guess, he wants us to go up against Morgana again?" Regina: "Yep. I told him that we're not the only ones with magic around and it shouldn't always be down to us to-" Emma: (Placing her hands on Regina's arms:) "Don't worry about Rumple. It's not our job to police the realms. Besides, I'm totally not dressed for it." Regina: (Her eyes light up, excitedly:) "Are you still wearing it?" Emma: (Nods:) "Mmhmm. That was the dare, right? Gotta says it's a little distracting. No wonder guys are always thinking with theirs." Regina: "And no one suspected anything?" Emma: "I don't think so. I had to be pretty careful when getting out of my chair though. A longer skirt would've helped." Regina: "But would've been far less sexy. (Regina leans in and kisses her wife as her hands move over Emma's hips, lifting her skirt and exposing Emma's not so little 'distraction' to her eyes. Regina's fingers play with the straps at Emma's hips:) So, we never did discuss what you'd like if you won the bet?" Emma: "No, we didn't. (Raises her eyebrow:) I'm sure we'll think of something." Regina: (Smiles:) "Yes... (Slowly sinks to her knees:) I'm certain I'll come up with an appropriate reward." (Emma watches Regina with a barely restrained hunger. At the very moment Regina's tongue passes her lips to brush the tip of the toy protruding between her legs, Emma's resolve falters. Moaning with desire, Emma places her hands on Regina's shoulders for support and watches while Regina continues her scandalously skilled display.) Camelot. Arthur's Chambers. (Guinevere walks across the hallway, the bracelet on her wrist, and sneaks into Arthur’s room where he is dressing.) Guinevere: “Here…let me.” (She helps him with his jacket.) Arthur: “Thank you.” (Arthur smiles darkly as Guinevere slides her hand down his arm. Guinevere circles Arthur, running her hand over his shoulders, the bracelet glowing on her wrist. She entwines her fingers with his and kisses them tenderly.)

#sq #swanqueen #swan queen