Maleficent

The winds were hurling over the mountain tops, bringing message of winter that was soon to arrive in Misthaven. The northern kingdoms were first to witness the change of seasons, including the lands of king Leopold. Yet neither the sound of tree branches aching under its force, the leaves shaking, nor the heavy, cold rain could wake the young queen from the dreams she was trapped in while the storm outside the castle kept singing his terrifying tune.

The young brunette found herself far away from the place she was supposed to call home. In her nightly sleep she was carried away with the winds into another place, a fortress she had visited recently, to a woman who had enchanted her. Against all rational thought the intimidating lady was in her head at all times. Her voice that promised of a better future, her gestures safe and protective.

The sound of thunder was roaring through Regina’s chambers and finally woke her up. For a moment she tried to capture the dream she had had, yet unable to hold the image of the woman who had stolen her heart. With bare feet the young woman walked over to her balcony and watched the storm wash away the last evidence of summer. Her mind though was at a different place. Those dreams were a recurring incident, making the queen’s heart ache for someone she could never have.

It was tragic. In the midst of her darkest hours she had found light in form of a dragon, only to know she was stuck here in this place with her husband, tied to a marriage that should have never been. She blinked away the tears and took a deep breath. Maybe one day she was going to be free, maybe one day she could decide on fate all by herself. And when this day was to come Regina was going to take what she wanted, including the love and affection of a certain dragon.

The lands surrounding the Dark Fortress were once again fertile. The villagers had feared the dragon regaining her fire, but with the fertile ground they accepted the loss of a few sheeps a month.

Maleficent stood out, looking over the darkening lands as the sun set. The air changed and with the change she spread her wings.

The sight of the dragon against the sky, still sent fear through the people below, but the hunting had mostly ceased making her flights safer. At least until she neared the King’s castle.

Under the cover of the storm’s darkness, Maleficent landed and changed into her human form surrounded by the trees near Regina’s chambers. She stepped out from the tree line, eyes set in the balcony. “There you are,” she whispered as she spotted Regina.

The only thing she considered as some kind of distraction of her misery were the magical lessons she had with Rumplestiltskin. The more she learned about the gifts she had inherited from her mother, the closer her revenge on Snow White came.

The sudden sound of a very familiar voice close to her, snapped the young queen out of her thoughts. The sight of the blonde woman in her chambers was unexpected but didn’t hold her back from smiling. It quickly faded though when she came closer.

As Regina’s smile faded, Maleficent stepped down, into the shadow of the tower. “I wasn’t seen. No one is out in this weather. And your guards are huddled up in their sheds to stay warm and dry.”

Her joy to see Maleficent here quickly faded and was replaced by her worries. It was ridiculous worrying about the safety of a dragon and she was aware of that, yet she could not help it but do it anyways. She hesitated before reaching up to the blonde and cupping her cheek.

Maleficent turned her face into Regina’s hand and closed her eyes. The human touch was warm and comforting in this harsh weather. “I could steal you away, you know. In the darkness of the night. But then you’d be trapped in my castle…” she smiled and pressed a kiss to Regina’s palm.

“You know I wished nothing more than to go with you away from here and never return. But not if I have to live in fear for your life”, Regina whispered and looked at the blonde with eyes full of sorrow and pain.

The younger woman raised her brows and looked up at the dragon. “Maleficent… are you attempting to seduce the queen? That is a very bold move, considering I am a married woman”, she teased her. There was a glance in her eyes though that made her lead the blonde further back into her chambers.

Her lips curled into a soft smile as Regina kissed her and wrapped her arms around her, lifting her up to prolong the kiss.

As the kiss ended, Maleficent slowly eased her hold on Regina and stepped back to look at her. “I heard a rumour…” she began er she opened her cape and slid it down over her arms, “about your ‘dear husband’… is he teaming up with king Stefan about hunts?”

The smile, caused by the blonde’s presence quickly washed away with her question. “No I… he and King Stefan met some time ago,but as far as I am aware they did not discuss such a thing”, she replied and sank back down on her bed.

On the other hand even if the topic had been part of their conversation Regina was the last one to know. Leopold didn’t see nothing more than some kind of trophy in her, a pretty show off. She was never going to be more to him as long as she didn’t bear him a male heir and everyone knew that.

“Besides, most weapons that can do ore than injure me, let alone kill me, have been lost for eons. I haven’t seen one since I was a young one. I highly doubt the kings have one.”

Her eyes traveled up until they met coral blue ones. “That is the point my dear. You don’t know for sure. And even without weapons… what a life would await you? They would hunt you, they would not rest and you could never settle, constantly on the edge on the promise of the next attack.”

The expression on her face softened. She moved her hand and guided the blonde’s up to her lips. “You know exactly that I wish nothing else but having you by my side, but not at the cost of your own safety. I cannot lose you as well. You are the only good thing in my life I have left.” Her voice had gotten heavier, her eyes averted from the dragon.

“You’re not simple, in any meaning of the word. No woman is. You’re maginificent, regal, clever and very attractive. You’re more than worthy to be by my side. It hurts that you’re not able to.”

The young brunette would have considered herself lucky to be part of something like that but in their case it was both a blessing and a curse. She was not a free woman, bound in a wrecked marriage. There was the possibility to take her things and go with the dragon, yet the possible consequences were way too dangerous to risk that.

With a sigh she sank into the blonde’s arms. The warmth of her body made the queen relax. “I just wished I would be free. Free from this marriage, free from Rumplestiltskin and my mother’s grasp”, she whispered. Even though Cora had found her new place in Wonderland thanks to her daughter, it wasn’t a far reach to assume she was still looking over how things were working out for Regina.

Maleficent hoped her words would come through. And she hoped she’d get to see Regina in all her glory.

Regina’s smile broadened. “I think after the days I had to go without seeing you, I think I can accept that offer to accompany you to your fortress”, she answered and played with the dragon’s finger. The blonde had taken her away for the night many times before and while it might have been dangerous to get caught, they always managed to cover their little affair.

“I’d make you my queen, if I could,” she whispered before she wrapped them up in magic and whisked them off to a nearby forest. She couldn’t use magic to go all the way to the fortress, but hidden by the trees she could transform to her dragon form.

It was always quite the sight to see the other woman transform into a dragon. The very first time the young queen had been witness to it she had to admit there had been some fear. Maleficent could have just as easily decided to roast her along with Stefan and his men.

Steering clear of the main roads, Maleficent took them over forests, clearings and sparkling lakes, visible when the clouds grew thin.

Once the fortress came into view, Maleficent descended and landed on the soft forest floor. Only once Regina was on the ground did she change back into her human form.

For a few moments she allowed herself to close her eyes and enjoy this before she noticed the dragon descend again. The forbidden fortress came into sight, as majestic and threatening as ever. The brunette laughed to herself. In hindsight it had been incredibly stupid of her just to barge into that castle. The other woman had told her quite clearly that any other dragon would have roasted her on sight. After all no one should have the courage to break into a dragon’s lair.

They didn’t go directly to the fortress though and landed in the forest. Regina frowned a little but the older woman quickly explained. “A bath truly sounds like a wonderful thing”, she had to admit and took her lover’s hand. They wandered through the dark woods along a path which could only be left to imagination. The fact that no moonlight dared to peak through the tree crowns did not help either. After a while the trees parted and granted view on a lake that emitted steam into the air. The sight was almost alluring and the queen slowly came closer. 

Maleficent slowly removed her garments before she extended her leg, dipping her foot into the warm water. Pleased by the temperature she followed Regina into the pool.

“This isn’t a bath, dear. But you might need one after. The water is filled with white clay, which makes your skin ever so soft.”

“Oh so my dragon likes to take advantage of the sight her queen grants her. Isn’t that good to know”, she said and turned around to her. For a moment she was totally in awe of the beauty that the dragon was. Never in her whole life she had encountered someone as perfect as her. Only then the young queen realised that she was starring so she averted her eyes and found the dark forest very fascinating all of a sudden.

Once Maleficent found herself in the lake as well she came back closer and stole a sweet little kiss. Sometimes she just really could not help herself. “Thank you… for taking me out of that castle and bringing me here.” Regina might have been the queen but for her husband and the entire royal court she was nothing more than a trophy and an empty vessel who’s only purpose lay in the fact to bear a male heir for the kingdom.

The kisses were a nice surprise. Cute, childlike, free. Maleficent ran her hands over Regina’s hips, settling at her waist. “You’re welcome, my queen,” she husked and pressed a kiss to her forehead.

Regina knew the truth. As much as she wanted to believe that they had a chance for something real, this was nothing fate had in store for her. Maleficent was the one for her but it was not meant to be the way they wished.

All those thoughts that were haunting her at night were gone though as soon as she found herself in the presence of the dragon. Her lips were so soft it made her breath hitch as the brunette almost melted into her touch. Her hands were wrapping around her waist and pulled her closer. Lost in a kiss that seemed to make up for all the wrong in her life she stayed right there.

As Regina pulled back and looked around, Maleficent tightened her hold of her. She too looked around, listening for intruders to their sanctuary.

“Shh,” she said and moved her hand to Regina’s chest, feeling her heart pound against her palm.

Maleficent closed her eyes listening more intensely. Another sound and she whipped her head towards the source. “Regina, go to my fortress. The protective charms will let your through.” She said hurriedly as sounds of horses interrupted the quiet of the night. “Do forgive me,” she added before she used her magic to send, a very nude, Regina to safety in the Forbidden Fortress.

Maleficent used her magic to get dressed again and stood straight and tall as the hunting party arrived.

With a gasp, Maleficent landed in courtyard of the Forbidden Fortress. There was a hole through the membrane of one of her wings and an arrow stuck out from her hind leg. She groaned as she changed back to her human form. “Someone bring the chamomile!” She called out.

The winds were hurling over the mountain tops, bringing message of winter that was soon to arrive in Misthaven. The northern kingdoms were first to witness the change of seasons, including the lands of king Leopold. Yet neither the sound of tree branches aching under its force, the leaves shaking, nor the heavy, cold rain could wake the young queen from the dreams she was trapped in while the storm outside the castle kept singing his terrifying tune.

The young brunette found herself far away from the place she was supposed to call home. In her nightly sleep she was carried away with the winds into another place, a fortress she had visited recently, to a woman who had enchanted her. Against all rational thought the intimidating lady was in her head at all times. Her voice that promised of a better future, her gestures safe and protective.

The sound of thunder was roaring through Regina’s chambers and finally woke her up. For a moment she tried to capture the dream she had had, yet unable to hold the image of the woman who had stolen her heart. With bare feet the young woman walked over to her balcony and watched the storm wash away the last evidence of summer. Her mind though was at a different place. Those dreams were a recurring incident, making the queen’s heart ache for someone she could never have.

It was tragic. In the midst of her darkest hours she had found light in form of a dragon, only to know she was stuck here in this place with her husband, tied to a marriage that should have never been. She blinked away the tears and took a deep breath. Maybe one day she was going to be free, maybe one day she could decide on fate all by herself. And when this day was to come Regina was going to take what she wanted, including the love and affection of a certain dragon.

The lands surrounding the Dark Fortress were once again fertile. The villagers had feared the dragon regaining her fire, but with the fertile ground they accepted the loss of a few sheeps a month.

Maleficent stood out, looking over the darkening lands as the sun set. The air changed and with the change she spread her wings.

The sight of the dragon against the sky, still sent fear through the people below, but the hunting had mostly ceased making her flights safer. At least until she neared the King’s castle.

Under the cover of the storm’s darkness, Maleficent landed and changed into her human form surrounded by the trees near Regina’s chambers. She stepped out from the tree line, eyes set in the balcony. “There you are,” she whispered as she spotted Regina.

The only thing she considered as some kind of distraction of her misery were the magical lessons she had with Rumplestiltskin. The more she learned about the gifts she had inherited from her mother, the closer her revenge on Snow White came.

The sudden sound of a very familiar voice close to her, snapped the young queen out of her thoughts. The sight of the blonde woman in her chambers was unexpected but didn’t hold her back from smiling. It quickly faded though when she came closer.

As Regina’s smile faded, Maleficent stepped down, into the shadow of the tower. “I wasn’t seen. No one is out in this weather. And your guards are huddled up in their sheds to stay warm and dry.”

Her joy to see Maleficent here quickly faded and was replaced by her worries. It was ridiculous worrying about the safety of a dragon and she was aware of that, yet she could not help it but do it anyways. She hesitated before reaching up to the blonde and cupping her cheek.

Maleficent turned her face into Regina’s hand and closed her eyes. The human touch was warm and comforting in this harsh weather. “I could steal you away, you know. In the darkness of the night. But then you’d be trapped in my castle…” she smiled and pressed a kiss to Regina’s palm.

“You know I wished nothing more than to go with you away from here and never return. But not if I have to live in fear for your life”, Regina whispered and looked at the blonde with eyes full of sorrow and pain.

The younger woman raised her brows and looked up at the dragon. “Maleficent… are you attempting to seduce the queen? That is a very bold move, considering I am a married woman”, she teased her. There was a glance in her eyes though that made her lead the blonde further back into her chambers.

Her lips curled into a soft smile as Regina kissed her and wrapped her arms around her, lifting her up to prolong the kiss.

As the kiss ended, Maleficent slowly eased her hold on Regina and stepped back to look at her. “I heard a rumour…” she began er she opened her cape and slid it down over her arms, “about your ‘dear husband’… is he teaming up with king Stefan about hunts?”

The smile, caused by the blonde’s presence quickly washed away with her question. “No I… he and King Stefan met some time ago,but as far as I am aware they did not discuss such a thing”, she replied and sank back down on her bed.

On the other hand even if the topic had been part of their conversation Regina was the last one to know. Leopold didn’t see nothing more than some kind of trophy in her, a pretty show off. She was never going to be more to him as long as she didn’t bear him a male heir and everyone knew that.

“Besides, most weapons that can do ore than injure me, let alone kill me, have been lost for eons. I haven’t seen one since I was a young one. I highly doubt the kings have one.”

Her eyes traveled up until they met coral blue ones. “That is the point my dear. You don’t know for sure. And even without weapons… what a life would await you? They would hunt you, they would not rest and you could never settle, constantly on the edge on the promise of the next attack.”

The expression on her face softened. She moved her hand and guided the blonde’s up to her lips. “You know exactly that I wish nothing else but having you by my side, but not at the cost of your own safety. I cannot lose you as well. You are the only good thing in my life I have left.” Her voice had gotten heavier, her eyes averted from the dragon.

“You’re not simple, in any meaning of the word. No woman is. You’re maginificent, regal, clever and very attractive. You’re more than worthy to be by my side. It hurts that you’re not able to.”

The young brunette would have considered herself lucky to be part of something like that but in their case it was both a blessing and a curse. She was not a free woman, bound in a wrecked marriage. There was the possibility to take her things and go with the dragon, yet the possible consequences were way too dangerous to risk that.

With a sigh she sank into the blonde’s arms. The warmth of her body made the queen relax. “I just wished I would be free. Free from this marriage, free from Rumplestiltskin and my mother’s grasp”, she whispered. Even though Cora had found her new place in Wonderland thanks to her daughter, it wasn’t a far reach to assume she was still looking over how things were working out for Regina.

Maleficent hoped her words would come through. And she hoped she’d get to see Regina in all her glory.

Regina’s smile broadened. “I think after the days I had to go without seeing you, I think I can accept that offer to accompany you to your fortress”, she answered and played with the dragon’s finger. The blonde had taken her away for the night many times before and while it might have been dangerous to get caught, they always managed to cover their little affair.

“I’d make you my queen, if I could,” she whispered before she wrapped them up in magic and whisked them off to a nearby forest. She couldn’t use magic to go all the way to the fortress, but hidden by the trees she could transform to her dragon form.

It was always quite the sight to see the other woman transform into a dragon. The very first time the young queen had been witness to it she had to admit there had been some fear. Maleficent could have just as easily decided to roast her along with Stefan and his men.

Steering clear of the main roads, Maleficent took them over forests, clearings and sparkling lakes, visible when the clouds grew thin.

Once the fortress came into view, Maleficent descended and landed on the soft forest floor. Only once Regina was on the ground did she change back into her human form.

For a few moments she allowed herself to close her eyes and enjoy this before she noticed the dragon descend again. The forbidden fortress came into sight, as majestic and threatening as ever. The brunette laughed to herself. In hindsight it had been incredibly stupid of her just to barge into that castle. The other woman had told her quite clearly that any other dragon would have roasted her on sight. After all no one should have the courage to break into a dragon’s lair.

They didn’t go directly to the fortress though and landed in the forest. Regina frowned a little but the older woman quickly explained. “A bath truly sounds like a wonderful thing”, she had to admit and took her lover’s hand. They wandered through the dark woods along a path which could only be left to imagination. The fact that no moonlight dared to peak through the tree crowns did not help either. After a while the trees parted and granted view on a lake that emitted steam into the air. The sight was almost alluring and the queen slowly came closer. 

Maleficent slowly removed her garments before she extended her leg, dipping her foot into the warm water. Pleased by the temperature she followed Regina into the pool.

“This isn’t a bath, dear. But you might need one after. The water is filled with white clay, which makes your skin ever so soft.”

“Oh so my dragon likes to take advantage of the sight her queen grants her. Isn’t that good to know”, she said and turned around to her. For a moment she was totally in awe of the beauty that the dragon was. Never in her whole life she had encountered someone as perfect as her. Only then the young queen realised that she was starring so she averted her eyes and found the dark forest very fascinating all of a sudden.

Once Maleficent found herself in the lake as well she came back closer and stole a sweet little kiss. Sometimes she just really could not help herself. “Thank you… for taking me out of that castle and bringing me here.” Regina might have been the queen but for her husband and the entire royal court she was nothing more than a trophy and an empty vessel who’s only purpose lay in the fact to bear a male heir for the kingdom.

The kisses were a nice surprise. Cute, childlike, free. Maleficent ran her hands over Regina’s hips, settling at her waist. “You’re welcome, my queen,” she husked and pressed a kiss to her forehead.

The winds were hurling over the mountain tops, bringing message of winter that was soon to arrive in Misthaven. The northern kingdoms were first to witness the change of seasons, including the lands of king Leopold. Yet neither the sound of tree branches aching under its force, the leaves shaking, nor the heavy, cold rain could wake the young queen from the dreams she was trapped in while the storm outside the castle kept singing his terrifying tune.

The young brunette found herself far away from the place she was supposed to call home. In her nightly sleep she was carried away with the winds into another place, a fortress she had visited recently, to a woman who had enchanted her. Against all rational thought the intimidating lady was in her head at all times. Her voice that promised of a better future, her gestures safe and protective.

The sound of thunder was roaring through Regina’s chambers and finally woke her up. For a moment she tried to capture the dream she had had, yet unable to hold the image of the woman who had stolen her heart. With bare feet the young woman walked over to her balcony and watched the storm wash away the last evidence of summer. Her mind though was at a different place. Those dreams were a recurring incident, making the queen’s heart ache for someone she could never have.

It was tragic. In the midst of her darkest hours she had found light in form of a dragon, only to know she was stuck here in this place with her husband, tied to a marriage that should have never been. She blinked away the tears and took a deep breath. Maybe one day she was going to be free, maybe one day she could decide on fate all by herself. And when this day was to come Regina was going to take what she wanted, including the love and affection of a certain dragon.

The lands surrounding the Dark Fortress were once again fertile. The villagers had feared the dragon regaining her fire, but with the fertile ground they accepted the loss of a few sheeps a month.

Maleficent stood out, looking over the darkening lands as the sun set. The air changed and with the change she spread her wings.

The sight of the dragon against the sky, still sent fear through the people below, but the hunting had mostly ceased making her flights safer. At least until she neared the King’s castle.

Under the cover of the storm’s darkness, Maleficent landed and changed into her human form surrounded by the trees near Regina’s chambers. She stepped out from the tree line, eyes set in the balcony. “There you are,” she whispered as she spotted Regina.

The only thing she considered as some kind of distraction of her misery were the magical lessons she had with Rumplestiltskin. The more she learned about the gifts she had inherited from her mother, the closer her revenge on Snow White came.

The sudden sound of a very familiar voice close to her, snapped the young queen out of her thoughts. The sight of the blonde woman in her chambers was unexpected but didn’t hold her back from smiling. It quickly faded though when she came closer.

As Regina’s smile faded, Maleficent stepped down, into the shadow of the tower. “I wasn’t seen. No one is out in this weather. And your guards are huddled up in their sheds to stay warm and dry.”

Her joy to see Maleficent here quickly faded and was replaced by her worries. It was ridiculous worrying about the safety of a dragon and she was aware of that, yet she could not help it but do it anyways. She hesitated before reaching up to the blonde and cupping her cheek.

Maleficent turned her face into Regina’s hand and closed her eyes. The human touch was warm and comforting in this harsh weather. “I could steal you away, you know. In the darkness of the night. But then you’d be trapped in my castle…” she smiled and pressed a kiss to Regina’s palm.

“You know I wished nothing more than to go with you away from here and never return. But not if I have to live in fear for your life”, Regina whispered and looked at the blonde with eyes full of sorrow and pain.

The younger woman raised her brows and looked up at the dragon. “Maleficent… are you attempting to seduce the queen? That is a very bold move, considering I am a married woman”, she teased her. There was a glance in her eyes though that made her lead the blonde further back into her chambers.

Her lips curled into a soft smile as Regina kissed her and wrapped her arms around her, lifting her up to prolong the kiss.

As the kiss ended, Maleficent slowly eased her hold on Regina and stepped back to look at her. “I heard a rumour…” she began er she opened her cape and slid it down over her arms, “about your ‘dear husband’… is he teaming up with king Stefan about hunts?”

The smile, caused by the blonde’s presence quickly washed away with her question. “No I… he and King Stefan met some time ago,but as far as I am aware they did not discuss such a thing”, she replied and sank back down on her bed.

On the other hand even if the topic had been part of their conversation Regina was the last one to know. Leopold didn’t see nothing more than some kind of trophy in her, a pretty show off. She was never going to be more to him as long as she didn’t bear him a male heir and everyone knew that.

“Besides, most weapons that can do ore than injure me, let alone kill me, have been lost for eons. I haven’t seen one since I was a young one. I highly doubt the kings have one.”

Her eyes traveled up until they met coral blue ones. “That is the point my dear. You don’t know for sure. And even without weapons… what a life would await you? They would hunt you, they would not rest and you could never settle, constantly on the edge on the promise of the next attack.”

The expression on her face softened. She moved her hand and guided the blonde’s up to her lips. “You know exactly that I wish nothing else but having you by my side, but not at the cost of your own safety. I cannot lose you as well. You are the only good thing in my life I have left.” Her voice had gotten heavier, her eyes averted from the dragon.

“You’re not simple, in any meaning of the word. No woman is. You’re maginificent, regal, clever and very attractive. You’re more than worthy to be by my side. It hurts that you’re not able to.”

The young brunette would have considered herself lucky to be part of something like that but in their case it was both a blessing and a curse. She was not a free woman, bound in a wrecked marriage. There was the possibility to take her things and go with the dragon, yet the possible consequences were way too dangerous to risk that.

With a sigh she sank into the blonde’s arms. The warmth of her body made the queen relax. “I just wished I would be free. Free from this marriage, free from Rumplestiltskin and my mother’s grasp”, she whispered. Even though Cora had found her new place in Wonderland thanks to her daughter, it wasn’t a far reach to assume she was still looking over how things were working out for Regina.

Maleficent hoped her words would come through. And she hoped she’d get to see Regina in all her glory.

Regina’s smile broadened. “I think after the days I had to go without seeing you, I think I can accept that offer to accompany you to your fortress”, she answered and played with the dragon’s finger. The blonde had taken her away for the night many times before and while it might have been dangerous to get caught, they always managed to cover their little affair.

“I’d make you my queen, if I could,” she whispered before she wrapped them up in magic and whisked them off to a nearby forest. She couldn’t use magic to go all the way to the fortress, but hidden by the trees she could transform to her dragon form.

It was always quite the sight to see the other woman transform into a dragon. The very first time the young queen had been witness to it she had to admit there had been some fear. Maleficent could have just as easily decided to roast her along with Stefan and his men.

Steering clear of the main roads, Maleficent took them over forests, clearings and sparkling lakes, visible when the clouds grew thin.

Once the fortress came into view, Maleficent descended and landed on the soft forest floor. Only once Regina was on the ground did she change back into her human form.

For a few moments she allowed herself to close her eyes and enjoy this before she noticed the dragon descend again. The forbidden fortress came into sight, as majestic and threatening as ever. The brunette laughed to herself. In hindsight it had been incredibly stupid of her just to barge into that castle. The other woman had told her quite clearly that any other dragon would have roasted her on sight. After all no one should have the courage to break into a dragon’s lair.

They didn’t go directly to the fortress though and landed in the forest. Regina frowned a little but the older woman quickly explained. “A bath truly sounds like a wonderful thing”, she had to admit and took her lover’s hand. They wandered through the dark woods along a path which could only be left to imagination. The fact that no moonlight dared to peak through the tree crowns did not help either. After a while the trees parted and granted view on a lake that emitted steam into the air. The sight was almost alluring and the queen slowly came closer. 

Maleficent slowly removed her garments before she extended her leg, dipping her foot into the warm water. Pleased by the temperature she followed Regina into the pool.

“This isn’t a bath, dear. But you might need one after. The water is filled with white clay, which makes your skin ever so soft.”

The winds were hurling over the mountain tops, bringing message of winter that was soon to arrive in Misthaven. The northern kingdoms were first to witness the change of seasons, including the lands of king Leopold. Yet neither the sound of tree branches aching under its force, the leaves shaking, nor the heavy, cold rain could wake the young queen from the dreams she was trapped in while the storm outside the castle kept singing his terrifying tune.

The young brunette found herself far away from the place she was supposed to call home. In her nightly sleep she was carried away with the winds into another place, a fortress she had visited recently, to a woman who had enchanted her. Against all rational thought the intimidating lady was in her head at all times. Her voice that promised of a better future, her gestures safe and protective.

The sound of thunder was roaring through Regina’s chambers and finally woke her up. For a moment she tried to capture the dream she had had, yet unable to hold the image of the woman who had stolen her heart. With bare feet the young woman walked over to her balcony and watched the storm wash away the last evidence of summer. Her mind though was at a different place. Those dreams were a recurring incident, making the queen’s heart ache for someone she could never have.

It was tragic. In the midst of her darkest hours she had found light in form of a dragon, only to know she was stuck here in this place with her husband, tied to a marriage that should have never been. She blinked away the tears and took a deep breath. Maybe one day she was going to be free, maybe one day she could decide on fate all by herself. And when this day was to come Regina was going to take what she wanted, including the love and affection of a certain dragon.

The lands surrounding the Dark Fortress were once again fertile. The villagers had feared the dragon regaining her fire, but with the fertile ground they accepted the loss of a few sheeps a month.

Maleficent stood out, looking over the darkening lands as the sun set. The air changed and with the change she spread her wings.

The sight of the dragon against the sky, still sent fear through the people below, but the hunting had mostly ceased making her flights safer. At least until she neared the King’s castle.

Under the cover of the storm’s darkness, Maleficent landed and changed into her human form surrounded by the trees near Regina’s chambers. She stepped out from the tree line, eyes set in the balcony. “There you are,” she whispered as she spotted Regina.

The only thing she considered as some kind of distraction of her misery were the magical lessons she had with Rumplestiltskin. The more she learned about the gifts she had inherited from her mother, the closer her revenge on Snow White came.

The sudden sound of a very familiar voice close to her, snapped the young queen out of her thoughts. The sight of the blonde woman in her chambers was unexpected but didn’t hold her back from smiling. It quickly faded though when she came closer.

As Regina’s smile faded, Maleficent stepped down, into the shadow of the tower. “I wasn’t seen. No one is out in this weather. And your guards are huddled up in their sheds to stay warm and dry.”

Her joy to see Maleficent here quickly faded and was replaced by her worries. It was ridiculous worrying about the safety of a dragon and she was aware of that, yet she could not help it but do it anyways. She hesitated before reaching up to the blonde and cupping her cheek.

Maleficent turned her face into Regina’s hand and closed her eyes. The human touch was warm and comforting in this harsh weather. “I could steal you away, you know. In the darkness of the night. But then you’d be trapped in my castle…” she smiled and pressed a kiss to Regina’s palm.

“You know I wished nothing more than to go with you away from here and never return. But not if I have to live in fear for your life”, Regina whispered and looked at the blonde with eyes full of sorrow and pain.

The younger woman raised her brows and looked up at the dragon. “Maleficent… are you attempting to seduce the queen? That is a very bold move, considering I am a married woman”, she teased her. There was a glance in her eyes though that made her lead the blonde further back into her chambers.

Her lips curled into a soft smile as Regina kissed her and wrapped her arms around her, lifting her up to prolong the kiss.

As the kiss ended, Maleficent slowly eased her hold on Regina and stepped back to look at her. “I heard a rumour…” she began er she opened her cape and slid it down over her arms, “about your ‘dear husband’… is he teaming up with king Stefan about hunts?”

The smile, caused by the blonde’s presence quickly washed away with her question. “No I… he and King Stefan met some time ago,but as far as I am aware they did not discuss such a thing”, she replied and sank back down on her bed.

On the other hand even if the topic had been part of their conversation Regina was the last one to know. Leopold didn’t see nothing more than some kind of trophy in her, a pretty show off. She was never going to be more to him as long as she didn’t bear him a male heir and everyone knew that.

“Besides, most weapons that can do ore than injure me, let alone kill me, have been lost for eons. I haven’t seen one since I was a young one. I highly doubt the kings have one.”

Her eyes traveled up until they met coral blue ones. “That is the point my dear. You don’t know for sure. And even without weapons… what a life would await you? They would hunt you, they would not rest and you could never settle, constantly on the edge on the promise of the next attack.”

The expression on her face softened. She moved her hand and guided the blonde’s up to her lips. “You know exactly that I wish nothing else but having you by my side, but not at the cost of your own safety. I cannot lose you as well. You are the only good thing in my life I have left.” Her voice had gotten heavier, her eyes averted from the dragon.

“You’re not simple, in any meaning of the word. No woman is. You’re maginificent, regal, clever and very attractive. You’re more than worthy to be by my side. It hurts that you’re not able to.”

The young brunette would have considered herself lucky to be part of something like that but in their case it was both a blessing and a curse. She was not a free woman, bound in a wrecked marriage. There was the possibility to take her things and go with the dragon, yet the possible consequences were way too dangerous to risk that.

With a sigh she sank into the blonde’s arms. The warmth of her body made the queen relax. “I just wished I would be free. Free from this marriage, free from Rumplestiltskin and my mother’s grasp”, she whispered. Even though Cora had found her new place in Wonderland thanks to her daughter, it wasn’t a far reach to assume she was still looking over how things were working out for Regina.

Maleficent hoped her words would come through. And she hoped she’d get to see Regina in all her glory.

Regina’s smile broadened. “I think after the days I had to go without seeing you, I think I can accept that offer to accompany you to your fortress”, she answered and played with the dragon’s finger. The blonde had taken her away for the night many times before and while it might have been dangerous to get caught, they always managed to cover their little affair.

“I’d make you my queen, if I could,” she whispered before she wrapped them up in magic and whisked them off to a nearby forest. She couldn’t use magic to go all the way to the fortress, but hidden by the trees she could transform to her dragon form.

It was always quite the sight to see the other woman transform into a dragon. The very first time the young queen had been witness to it she had to admit there had been some fear. Maleficent could have just as easily decided to roast her along with Stefan and his men.

Steering clear of the main roads, Maleficent took them over forests, clearings and sparkling lakes, visible when the clouds grew thin.

Once the fortress came into view, Maleficent descended and landed on the soft forest floor. Only once Regina was on the ground did she change back into her human form.

The winds were hurling over the mountain tops, bringing message of winter that was soon to arrive in Misthaven. The northern kingdoms were first to witness the change of seasons, including the lands of king Leopold. Yet neither the sound of tree branches aching under its force, the leaves shaking, nor the heavy, cold rain could wake the young queen from the dreams she was trapped in while the storm outside the castle kept singing his terrifying tune.

The young brunette found herself far away from the place she was supposed to call home. In her nightly sleep she was carried away with the winds into another place, a fortress she had visited recently, to a woman who had enchanted her. Against all rational thought the intimidating lady was in her head at all times. Her voice that promised of a better future, her gestures safe and protective.

The sound of thunder was roaring through Regina’s chambers and finally woke her up. For a moment she tried to capture the dream she had had, yet unable to hold the image of the woman who had stolen her heart. With bare feet the young woman walked over to her balcony and watched the storm wash away the last evidence of summer. Her mind though was at a different place. Those dreams were a recurring incident, making the queen’s heart ache for someone she could never have.

It was tragic. In the midst of her darkest hours she had found light in form of a dragon, only to know she was stuck here in this place with her husband, tied to a marriage that should have never been. She blinked away the tears and took a deep breath. Maybe one day she was going to be free, maybe one day she could decide on fate all by herself. And when this day was to come Regina was going to take what she wanted, including the love and affection of a certain dragon.

The lands surrounding the Dark Fortress were once again fertile. The villagers had feared the dragon regaining her fire, but with the fertile ground they accepted the loss of a few sheeps a month.

Maleficent stood out, looking over the darkening lands as the sun set. The air changed and with the change she spread her wings.

The sight of the dragon against the sky, still sent fear through the people below, but the hunting had mostly ceased making her flights safer. At least until she neared the King’s castle.

Under the cover of the storm’s darkness, Maleficent landed and changed into her human form surrounded by the trees near Regina’s chambers. She stepped out from the tree line, eyes set in the balcony. “There you are,” she whispered as she spotted Regina.

The only thing she considered as some kind of distraction of her misery were the magical lessons she had with Rumplestiltskin. The more she learned about the gifts she had inherited from her mother, the closer her revenge on Snow White came.

The sudden sound of a very familiar voice close to her, snapped the young queen out of her thoughts. The sight of the blonde woman in her chambers was unexpected but didn’t hold her back from smiling. It quickly faded though when she came closer.

As Regina’s smile faded, Maleficent stepped down, into the shadow of the tower. “I wasn’t seen. No one is out in this weather. And your guards are huddled up in their sheds to stay warm and dry.”

Her joy to see Maleficent here quickly faded and was replaced by her worries. It was ridiculous worrying about the safety of a dragon and she was aware of that, yet she could not help it but do it anyways. She hesitated before reaching up to the blonde and cupping her cheek.

Maleficent turned her face into Regina’s hand and closed her eyes. The human touch was warm and comforting in this harsh weather. “I could steal you away, you know. In the darkness of the night. But then you’d be trapped in my castle…” she smiled and pressed a kiss to Regina’s palm.

“You know I wished nothing more than to go with you away from here and never return. But not if I have to live in fear for your life”, Regina whispered and looked at the blonde with eyes full of sorrow and pain.

The younger woman raised her brows and looked up at the dragon. “Maleficent… are you attempting to seduce the queen? That is a very bold move, considering I am a married woman”, she teased her. There was a glance in her eyes though that made her lead the blonde further back into her chambers.

Her lips curled into a soft smile as Regina kissed her and wrapped her arms around her, lifting her up to prolong the kiss.

As the kiss ended, Maleficent slowly eased her hold on Regina and stepped back to look at her. “I heard a rumour…” she began er she opened her cape and slid it down over her arms, “about your ‘dear husband’… is he teaming up with king Stefan about hunts?”

The smile, caused by the blonde’s presence quickly washed away with her question. “No I… he and King Stefan met some time ago,but as far as I am aware they did not discuss such a thing”, she replied and sank back down on her bed.

On the other hand even if the topic had been part of their conversation Regina was the last one to know. Leopold didn’t see nothing more than some kind of trophy in her, a pretty show off. She was never going to be more to him as long as she didn’t bear him a male heir and everyone knew that.

“Besides, most weapons that can do ore than injure me, let alone kill me, have been lost for eons. I haven’t seen one since I was a young one. I highly doubt the kings have one.”

Her eyes traveled up until they met coral blue ones. “That is the point my dear. You don’t know for sure. And even without weapons… what a life would await you? They would hunt you, they would not rest and you could never settle, constantly on the edge on the promise of the next attack.”

The expression on her face softened. She moved her hand and guided the blonde’s up to her lips. “You know exactly that I wish nothing else but having you by my side, but not at the cost of your own safety. I cannot lose you as well. You are the only good thing in my life I have left.” Her voice had gotten heavier, her eyes averted from the dragon.

“You’re not simple, in any meaning of the word. No woman is. You’re maginificent, regal, clever and very attractive. You’re more than worthy to be by my side. It hurts that you’re not able to.”

The young brunette would have considered herself lucky to be part of something like that but in their case it was both a blessing and a curse. She was not a free woman, bound in a wrecked marriage. There was the possibility to take her things and go with the dragon, yet the possible consequences were way too dangerous to risk that.

With a sigh she sank into the blonde’s arms. The warmth of her body made the queen relax. “I just wished I would be free. Free from this marriage, free from Rumplestiltskin and my mother’s grasp”, she whispered. Even though Cora had found her new place in Wonderland thanks to her daughter, it wasn’t a far reach to assume she was still looking over how things were working out for Regina.

Maleficent hoped her words would come through. And she hoped she’d get to see Regina in all her glory.

Regina’s smile broadened. “I think after the days I had to go without seeing you, I think I can accept that offer to accompany you to your fortress”, she answered and played with the dragon’s finger. The blonde had taken her away for the night many times before and while it might have been dangerous to get caught, they always managed to cover their little affair.

“I’d make you my queen, if I could,” she whispered before she wrapped them up in magic and whisked them off to a nearby forest. She couldn’t use magic to go all the way to the fortress, but hidden by the trees she could transform to her dragon form.

The winds were hurling over the mountain tops, bringing message of winter that was soon to arrive in Misthaven. The northern kingdoms were first to witness the change of seasons, including the lands of king Leopold. Yet neither the sound of tree branches aching under its force, the leaves shaking, nor the heavy, cold rain could wake the young queen from the dreams she was trapped in while the storm outside the castle kept singing his terrifying tune.

The young brunette found herself far away from the place she was supposed to call home. In her nightly sleep she was carried away with the winds into another place, a fortress she had visited recently, to a woman who had enchanted her. Against all rational thought the intimidating lady was in her head at all times. Her voice that promised of a better future, her gestures safe and protective.

The sound of thunder was roaring through Regina’s chambers and finally woke her up. For a moment she tried to capture the dream she had had, yet unable to hold the image of the woman who had stolen her heart. With bare feet the young woman walked over to her balcony and watched the storm wash away the last evidence of summer. Her mind though was at a different place. Those dreams were a recurring incident, making the queen’s heart ache for someone she could never have.

It was tragic. In the midst of her darkest hours she had found light in form of a dragon, only to know she was stuck here in this place with her husband, tied to a marriage that should have never been. She blinked away the tears and took a deep breath. Maybe one day she was going to be free, maybe one day she could decide on fate all by herself. And when this day was to come Regina was going to take what she wanted, including the love and affection of a certain dragon.

The lands surrounding the Dark Fortress were once again fertile. The villagers had feared the dragon regaining her fire, but with the fertile ground they accepted the loss of a few sheeps a month.

Maleficent stood out, looking over the darkening lands as the sun set. The air changed and with the change she spread her wings.

The sight of the dragon against the sky, still sent fear through the people below, but the hunting had mostly ceased making her flights safer. At least until she neared the King’s castle.

Under the cover of the storm’s darkness, Maleficent landed and changed into her human form surrounded by the trees near Regina’s chambers. She stepped out from the tree line, eyes set in the balcony. “There you are,” she whispered as she spotted Regina.

The only thing she considered as some kind of distraction of her misery were the magical lessons she had with Rumplestiltskin. The more she learned about the gifts she had inherited from her mother, the closer her revenge on Snow White came.

The sudden sound of a very familiar voice close to her, snapped the young queen out of her thoughts. The sight of the blonde woman in her chambers was unexpected but didn’t hold her back from smiling. It quickly faded though when she came closer.

As Regina’s smile faded, Maleficent stepped down, into the shadow of the tower. “I wasn’t seen. No one is out in this weather. And your guards are huddled up in their sheds to stay warm and dry.”

Her joy to see Maleficent here quickly faded and was replaced by her worries. It was ridiculous worrying about the safety of a dragon and she was aware of that, yet she could not help it but do it anyways. She hesitated before reaching up to the blonde and cupping her cheek.

Maleficent turned her face into Regina’s hand and closed her eyes. The human touch was warm and comforting in this harsh weather. “I could steal you away, you know. In the darkness of the night. But then you’d be trapped in my castle…” she smiled and pressed a kiss to Regina’s palm.

“You know I wished nothing more than to go with you away from here and never return. But not if I have to live in fear for your life”, Regina whispered and looked at the blonde with eyes full of sorrow and pain.

The younger woman raised her brows and looked up at the dragon. “Maleficent… are you attempting to seduce the queen? That is a very bold move, considering I am a married woman”, she teased her. There was a glance in her eyes though that made her lead the blonde further back into her chambers.

Her lips curled into a soft smile as Regina kissed her and wrapped her arms around her, lifting her up to prolong the kiss.

As the kiss ended, Maleficent slowly eased her hold on Regina and stepped back to look at her. “I heard a rumour…” she began er she opened her cape and slid it down over her arms, “about your ‘dear husband’… is he teaming up with king Stefan about hunts?”

The smile, caused by the blonde’s presence quickly washed away with her question. “No I… he and King Stefan met some time ago,but as far as I am aware they did not discuss such a thing”, she replied and sank back down on her bed.

On the other hand even if the topic had been part of their conversation Regina was the last one to know. Leopold didn’t see nothing more than some kind of trophy in her, a pretty show off. She was never going to be more to him as long as she didn’t bear him a male heir and everyone knew that.

“Besides, most weapons that can do ore than injure me, let alone kill me, have been lost for eons. I haven’t seen one since I was a young one. I highly doubt the kings have one.”

Her eyes traveled up until they met coral blue ones. “That is the point my dear. You don’t know for sure. And even without weapons… what a life would await you? They would hunt you, they would not rest and you could never settle, constantly on the edge on the promise of the next attack.”

The expression on her face softened. She moved her hand and guided the blonde’s up to her lips. “You know exactly that I wish nothing else but having you by my side, but not at the cost of your own safety. I cannot lose you as well. You are the only good thing in my life I have left.” Her voice had gotten heavier, her eyes averted from the dragon.

“You’re not simple, in any meaning of the word. No woman is. You’re maginificent, regal, clever and very attractive. You’re more than worthy to be by my side. It hurts that you’re not able to.”

The young brunette would have considered herself lucky to be part of something like that but in their case it was both a blessing and a curse. She was not a free woman, bound in a wrecked marriage. There was the possibility to take her things and go with the dragon, yet the possible consequences were way too dangerous to risk that.

With a sigh she sank into the blonde’s arms. The warmth of her body made the queen relax. “I just wished I would be free. Free from this marriage, free from Rumplestiltskin and my mother’s grasp”, she whispered. Even though Cora had found her new place in Wonderland thanks to her daughter, it wasn’t a far reach to assume she was still looking over how things were working out for Regina.

Maleficent hoped her words would come through. And she hoped she’d get to see Regina in all her glory.

The winds were hurling over the mountain tops, bringing message of winter that was soon to arrive in Misthaven. The northern kingdoms were first to witness the change of seasons, including the lands of king Leopold. Yet neither the sound of tree branches aching under its force, the leaves shaking, nor the heavy, cold rain could wake the young queen from the dreams she was trapped in while the storm outside the castle kept singing his terrifying tune.

The young brunette found herself far away from the place she was supposed to call home. In her nightly sleep she was carried away with the winds into another place, a fortress she had visited recently, to a woman who had enchanted her. Against all rational thought the intimidating lady was in her head at all times. Her voice that promised of a better future, her gestures safe and protective.

The sound of thunder was roaring through Regina’s chambers and finally woke her up. For a moment she tried to capture the dream she had had, yet unable to hold the image of the woman who had stolen her heart. With bare feet the young woman walked over to her balcony and watched the storm wash away the last evidence of summer. Her mind though was at a different place. Those dreams were a recurring incident, making the queen’s heart ache for someone she could never have.

It was tragic. In the midst of her darkest hours she had found light in form of a dragon, only to know she was stuck here in this place with her husband, tied to a marriage that should have never been. She blinked away the tears and took a deep breath. Maybe one day she was going to be free, maybe one day she could decide on fate all by herself. And when this day was to come Regina was going to take what she wanted, including the love and affection of a certain dragon.

The lands surrounding the Dark Fortress were once again fertile. The villagers had feared the dragon regaining her fire, but with the fertile ground they accepted the loss of a few sheeps a month.

Maleficent stood out, looking over the darkening lands as the sun set. The air changed and with the change she spread her wings.

The sight of the dragon against the sky, still sent fear through the people below, but the hunting had mostly ceased making her flights safer. At least until she neared the King’s castle.

Under the cover of the storm’s darkness, Maleficent landed and changed into her human form surrounded by the trees near Regina’s chambers. She stepped out from the tree line, eyes set in the balcony. “There you are,” she whispered as she spotted Regina.

The only thing she considered as some kind of distraction of her misery were the magical lessons she had with Rumplestiltskin. The more she learned about the gifts she had inherited from her mother, the closer her revenge on Snow White came.

The sudden sound of a very familiar voice close to her, snapped the young queen out of her thoughts. The sight of the blonde woman in her chambers was unexpected but didn’t hold her back from smiling. It quickly faded though when she came closer.

As Regina’s smile faded, Maleficent stepped down, into the shadow of the tower. “I wasn’t seen. No one is out in this weather. And your guards are huddled up in their sheds to stay warm and dry.”

Her joy to see Maleficent here quickly faded and was replaced by her worries. It was ridiculous worrying about the safety of a dragon and she was aware of that, yet she could not help it but do it anyways. She hesitated before reaching up to the blonde and cupping her cheek.

Maleficent turned her face into Regina’s hand and closed her eyes. The human touch was warm and comforting in this harsh weather. “I could steal you away, you know. In the darkness of the night. But then you’d be trapped in my castle…” she smiled and pressed a kiss to Regina’s palm.

“You know I wished nothing more than to go with you away from here and never return. But not if I have to live in fear for your life”, Regina whispered and looked at the blonde with eyes full of sorrow and pain.

The younger woman raised her brows and looked up at the dragon. “Maleficent… are you attempting to seduce the queen? That is a very bold move, considering I am a married woman”, she teased her. There was a glance in her eyes though that made her lead the blonde further back into her chambers.

Her lips curled into a soft smile as Regina kissed her and wrapped her arms around her, lifting her up to prolong the kiss.

As the kiss ended, Maleficent slowly eased her hold on Regina and stepped back to look at her. “I heard a rumour…” she began er she opened her cape and slid it down over her arms, “about your ‘dear husband’… is he teaming up with king Stefan about hunts?”

The smile, caused by the blonde’s presence quickly washed away with her question. “No I… he and King Stefan met some time ago,but as far as I am aware they did not discuss such a thing”, she replied and sank back down on her bed.

On the other hand even if the topic had been part of their conversation Regina was the last one to know. Leopold didn’t see nothing more than some kind of trophy in her, a pretty show off. She was never going to be more to him as long as she didn’t bear him a male heir and everyone knew that.

“Besides, most weapons that can do ore than injure me, let alone kill me, have been lost for eons. I haven’t seen one since I was a young one. I highly doubt the kings have one.”

Her eyes traveled up until they met coral blue ones. “That is the point my dear. You don’t know for sure. And even without weapons… what a life would await you? They would hunt you, they would not rest and you could never settle, constantly on the edge on the promise of the next attack.”

The expression on her face softened. She moved her hand and guided the blonde’s up to her lips. “You know exactly that I wish nothing else but having you by my side, but not at the cost of your own safety. I cannot lose you as well. You are the only good thing in my life I have left.” Her voice had gotten heavier, her eyes averted from the dragon.

“You’re not simple, in any meaning of the word. No woman is. You’re maginificent, regal, clever and very attractive. You’re more than worthy to be by my side. It hurts that you’re not able to.”

The winds were hurling over the mountain tops, bringing message of winter that was soon to arrive in Misthaven. The northern kingdoms were first to witness the change of seasons, including the lands of king Leopold. Yet neither the sound of tree branches aching under its force, the leaves shaking, nor the heavy, cold rain could wake the young queen from the dreams she was trapped in while the storm outside the castle kept singing his terrifying tune.

The young brunette found herself far away from the place she was supposed to call home. In her nightly sleep she was carried away with the winds into another place, a fortress she had visited recently, to a woman who had enchanted her. Against all rational thought the intimidating lady was in her head at all times. Her voice that promised of a better future, her gestures safe and protective.

The sound of thunder was roaring through Regina’s chambers and finally woke her up. For a moment she tried to capture the dream she had had, yet unable to hold the image of the woman who had stolen her heart. With bare feet the young woman walked over to her balcony and watched the storm wash away the last evidence of summer. Her mind though was at a different place. Those dreams were a recurring incident, making the queen’s heart ache for someone she could never have.

It was tragic. In the midst of her darkest hours she had found light in form of a dragon, only to know she was stuck here in this place with her husband, tied to a marriage that should have never been. She blinked away the tears and took a deep breath. Maybe one day she was going to be free, maybe one day she could decide on fate all by herself. And when this day was to come Regina was going to take what she wanted, including the love and affection of a certain dragon.

The lands surrounding the Dark Fortress were once again fertile. The villagers had feared the dragon regaining her fire, but with the fertile ground they accepted the loss of a few sheeps a month.

Maleficent stood out, looking over the darkening lands as the sun set. The air changed and with the change she spread her wings.

The sight of the dragon against the sky, still sent fear through the people below, but the hunting had mostly ceased making her flights safer. At least until she neared the King’s castle.

Under the cover of the storm’s darkness, Maleficent landed and changed into her human form surrounded by the trees near Regina’s chambers. She stepped out from the tree line, eyes set in the balcony. “There you are,” she whispered as she spotted Regina.

The only thing she considered as some kind of distraction of her misery were the magical lessons she had with Rumplestiltskin. The more she learned about the gifts she had inherited from her mother, the closer her revenge on Snow White came.

The sudden sound of a very familiar voice close to her, snapped the young queen out of her thoughts. The sight of the blonde woman in her chambers was unexpected but didn’t hold her back from smiling. It quickly faded though when she came closer.

As Regina’s smile faded, Maleficent stepped down, into the shadow of the tower. “I wasn’t seen. No one is out in this weather. And your guards are huddled up in their sheds to stay warm and dry.”

Her joy to see Maleficent here quickly faded and was replaced by her worries. It was ridiculous worrying about the safety of a dragon and she was aware of that, yet she could not help it but do it anyways. She hesitated before reaching up to the blonde and cupping her cheek.

Maleficent turned her face into Regina’s hand and closed her eyes. The human touch was warm and comforting in this harsh weather. “I could steal you away, you know. In the darkness of the night. But then you’d be trapped in my castle…” she smiled and pressed a kiss to Regina’s palm.

“You know I wished nothing more than to go with you away from here and never return. But not if I have to live in fear for your life”, Regina whispered and looked at the blonde with eyes full of sorrow and pain.

The younger woman raised her brows and looked up at the dragon. “Maleficent… are you attempting to seduce the queen? That is a very bold move, considering I am a married woman”, she teased her. There was a glance in her eyes though that made her lead the blonde further back into her chambers.

Her lips curled into a soft smile as Regina kissed her and wrapped her arms around her, lifting her up to prolong the kiss.

As the kiss ended, Maleficent slowly eased her hold on Regina and stepped back to look at her. “I heard a rumour…” she began er she opened her cape and slid it down over her arms, “about your ‘dear husband’… is he teaming up with king Stefan about hunts?”

The smile, caused by the blonde’s presence quickly washed away with her question. “No I… he and King Stefan met some time ago,but as far as I am aware they did not discuss such a thing”, she replied and sank back down on her bed.

On the other hand even if the topic had been part of their conversation Regina was the last one to know. Leopold didn’t see nothing more than some kind of trophy in her, a pretty show off. She was never going to be more to him as long as she didn’t bear him a male heir and everyone knew that.

“Besides, most weapons that can do ore than injure me, let alone kill me, have been lost for eons. I haven’t seen one since I was a young one. I highly doubt the kings have one.”

The winds were hurling over the mountain tops, bringing message of winter that was soon to arrive in Misthaven. The northern kingdoms were first to witness the change of seasons, including the lands of king Leopold. Yet neither the sound of tree branches aching under its force, the leaves shaking, nor the heavy, cold rain could wake the young queen from the dreams she was trapped in while the storm outside the castle kept singing his terrifying tune.

The young brunette found herself far away from the place she was supposed to call home. In her nightly sleep she was carried away with the winds into another place, a fortress she had visited recently, to a woman who had enchanted her. Against all rational thought the intimidating lady was in her head at all times. Her voice that promised of a better future, her gestures safe and protective.

The sound of thunder was roaring through Regina’s chambers and finally woke her up. For a moment she tried to capture the dream she had had, yet unable to hold the image of the woman who had stolen her heart. With bare feet the young woman walked over to her balcony and watched the storm wash away the last evidence of summer. Her mind though was at a different place. Those dreams were a recurring incident, making the queen’s heart ache for someone she could never have.

It was tragic. In the midst of her darkest hours she had found light in form of a dragon, only to know she was stuck here in this place with her husband, tied to a marriage that should have never been. She blinked away the tears and took a deep breath. Maybe one day she was going to be free, maybe one day she could decide on fate all by herself. And when this day was to come Regina was going to take what she wanted, including the love and affection of a certain dragon.

The lands surrounding the Dark Fortress were once again fertile. The villagers had feared the dragon regaining her fire, but with the fertile ground they accepted the loss of a few sheeps a month.

Maleficent stood out, looking over the darkening lands as the sun set. The air changed and with the change she spread her wings.

The sight of the dragon against the sky, still sent fear through the people below, but the hunting had mostly ceased making her flights safer. At least until she neared the King’s castle.

Under the cover of the storm’s darkness, Maleficent landed and changed into her human form surrounded by the trees near Regina’s chambers. She stepped out from the tree line, eyes set in the balcony. “There you are,” she whispered as she spotted Regina.

The only thing she considered as some kind of distraction of her misery were the magical lessons she had with Rumplestiltskin. The more she learned about the gifts she had inherited from her mother, the closer her revenge on Snow White came.

The sudden sound of a very familiar voice close to her, snapped the young queen out of her thoughts. The sight of the blonde woman in her chambers was unexpected but didn’t hold her back from smiling. It quickly faded though when she came closer.

As Regina’s smile faded, Maleficent stepped down, into the shadow of the tower. “I wasn’t seen. No one is out in this weather. And your guards are huddled up in their sheds to stay warm and dry.”

Her joy to see Maleficent here quickly faded and was replaced by her worries. It was ridiculous worrying about the safety of a dragon and she was aware of that, yet she could not help it but do it anyways. She hesitated before reaching up to the blonde and cupping her cheek.

Maleficent turned her face into Regina’s hand and closed her eyes. The human touch was warm and comforting in this harsh weather. “I could steal you away, you know. In the darkness of the night. But then you’d be trapped in my castle…” she smiled and pressed a kiss to Regina’s palm.

“You know I wished nothing more than to go with you away from here and never return. But not if I have to live in fear for your life”, Regina whispered and looked at the blonde with eyes full of sorrow and pain.

The younger woman raised her brows and looked up at the dragon. “Maleficent… are you attempting to seduce the queen? That is a very bold move, considering I am a married woman”, she teased her. There was a glance in her eyes though that made her lead the blonde further back into her chambers.

Her lips curled into a soft smile as Regina kissed her and wrapped her arms around her, lifting her up to prolong the kiss.

As the kiss ended, Maleficent slowly eased her hold on Regina and stepped back to look at her. “I heard a rumour...” she began er she opened her cape and slid it down over her arms, “about your ‘dear husband’... is he teaming up with king Stefan about hunts?”

The winds were hurling over the mountain tops, bringing message of winter that was soon to arrive in Misthaven. The northern kingdoms were first to witness the change of seasons, including the lands of king Leopold. Yet neither the sound of tree branches aching under its force, the leaves shaking, nor the heavy, cold rain could wake the young queen from the dreams she was trapped in while the storm outside the castle kept singing his terrifying tune.

The young brunette found herself far away from the place she was supposed to call home. In her nightly sleep she was carried away with the winds into another place, a fortress she had visited recently, to a woman who had enchanted her. Against all rational thought the intimidating lady was in her head at all times. Her voice that promised of a better future, her gestures safe and protective.

The sound of thunder was roaring through Regina’s chambers and finally woke her up. For a moment she tried to capture the dream she had had, yet unable to hold the image of the woman who had stolen her heart. With bare feet the young woman walked over to her balcony and watched the storm wash away the last evidence of summer. Her mind though was at a different place. Those dreams were a recurring incident, making the queen’s heart ache for someone she could never have.

It was tragic. In the midst of her darkest hours she had found light in form of a dragon, only to know she was stuck here in this place with her husband, tied to a marriage that should have never been. She blinked away the tears and took a deep breath. Maybe one day she was going to be free, maybe one day she could decide on fate all by herself. And when this day was to come Regina was going to take what she wanted, including the love and affection of a certain dragon.

The lands surrounding the Dark Fortress were once again fertile. The villagers had feared the dragon regaining her fire, but with the fertile ground they accepted the loss of a few sheeps a month.

Maleficent stood out, looking over the darkening lands as the sun set. The air changed and with the change she spread her wings.

The sight of the dragon against the sky, still sent fear through the people below, but the hunting had mostly ceased making her flights safer. At least until she neared the King’s castle.

Under the cover of the storm’s darkness, Maleficent landed and changed into her human form surrounded by the trees near Regina’s chambers. She stepped out from the tree line, eyes set in the balcony. “There you are,” she whispered as she spotted Regina.

The only thing she considered as some kind of distraction of her misery were the magical lessons she had with Rumplestiltskin. The more she learned about the gifts she had inherited from her mother, the closer her revenge on Snow White came.

The sudden sound of a very familiar voice close to her, snapped the young queen out of her thoughts. The sight of the blonde woman in her chambers was unexpected but didn’t hold her back from smiling. It quickly faded though when she came closer.

As Regina’s smile faded, Maleficent stepped down, into the shadow of the tower. “I wasn’t seen. No one is out in this weather. And your guards are huddled up in their sheds to stay warm and dry.”

Her joy to see Maleficent here quickly faded and was replaced by her worries. It was ridiculous worrying about the safety of a dragon and she was aware of that, yet she could not help it but do it anyways. She hesitated before reaching up to the blonde and cupping her cheek.

Maleficent turned her face into Regina’s hand and closed her eyes. The human touch was warm and comforting in this harsh weather. “I could steal you away, you know. In the darkness of the night. But then you’d be trapped in my castle…” she smiled and pressed a kiss to Regina’s palm.

“You know I wished nothing more than to go with you away from here and never return. But not if I have to live in fear for your life”, Regina whispered and looked at the blonde with eyes full of sorrow and pain.

The winds were hurling over the mountain tops, bringing message of winter that was soon to arrive in Misthaven. The northern kingdoms were first to witness the change of seasons, including the lands of king Leopold. Yet neither the sound of tree branches aching under its force, the leaves shaking, nor the heavy, cold rain could wake the young queen from the dreams she was trapped in while the storm outside the castle kept singing his terrifying tune.

The young brunette found herself far away from the place she was supposed to call home. In her nightly sleep she was carried away with the winds into another place, a fortress she had visited recently, to a woman who had enchanted her. Against all rational thought the intimidating lady was in her head at all times. Her voice that promised of a better future, her gestures safe and protective.

The sound of thunder was roaring through Regina’s chambers and finally woke her up. For a moment she tried to capture the dream she had had, yet unable to hold the image of the woman who had stolen her heart. With bare feet the young woman walked over to her balcony and watched the storm wash away the last evidence of summer. Her mind though was at a different place. Those dreams were a recurring incident, making the queen’s heart ache for someone she could never have.

It was tragic. In the midst of her darkest hours she had found light in form of a dragon, only to know she was stuck here in this place with her husband, tied to a marriage that should have never been. She blinked away the tears and took a deep breath. Maybe one day she was going to be free, maybe one day she could decide on fate all by herself. And when this day was to come Regina was going to take what she wanted, including the love and affection of a certain dragon.

The lands surrounding the Dark Fortress were once again fertile. The villagers had feared the dragon regaining her fire, but with the fertile ground they accepted the loss of a few sheeps a month.

Maleficent stood out, looking over the darkening lands as the sun set. The air changed and with the change she spread her wings.

The sight of the dragon against the sky, still sent fear through the people below, but the hunting had mostly ceased making her flights safer. At least until she neared the King’s castle.

Under the cover of the storm’s darkness, Maleficent landed and changed into her human form surrounded by the trees near Regina’s chambers. She stepped out from the tree line, eyes set in the balcony. “There you are,” she whispered as she spotted Regina.

The only thing she considered as some kind of distraction of her misery were the magical lessons she had with Rumplestiltskin. The more she learned about the gifts she had inherited from her mother, the closer her revenge on Snow White came.

The sudden sound of a very familiar voice close to her, snapped the young queen out of her thoughts. The sight of the blonde woman in her chambers was unexpected but didn’t hold her back from smiling. It quickly faded though when she came closer.

As Regina’s smile faded, Maleficent stepped down, into the shadow of the tower. “I wasn’t seen. No one is out in this weather. And your guards are huddled up in their sheds to stay warm and dry.”

Her joy to see Maleficent here quickly faded and was replaced by her worries. It was ridiculous worrying about the safety of a dragon and she was aware of that, yet she could not help it but do it anyways. She hesitated before reaching up to the blonde and cupping her cheek.

Maleficent turned her face into Regina’s hand and closed her eyes. The human touch was warm and comforting in this harsh weather. “I could steal you away, you know. In the darkness of the night. But then you’d be trapped in my castle...” she smiled and pressed a kiss to Regina’s palm.

The winds were hurling over the mountain tops, bringing message of winter that was soon to arrive in Misthaven. The northern kingdoms were first to witness the change of seasons, including the lands of king Leopold. Yet neither the sound of tree branches aching under its force, the leaves shaking, nor the heavy, cold rain could wake the young queen from the dreams she was trapped in while the storm outside the castle kept singing his terrifying tune.

The young brunette found herself far away from the place she was supposed to call home. In her nightly sleep she was carried away with the winds into another place, a fortress she had visited recently, to a woman who had enchanted her. Against all rational thought the intimidating lady was in her head at all times. Her voice that promised of a better future, her gestures safe and protective.

The sound of thunder was roaring through Regina’s chambers and finally woke her up. For a moment she tried to capture the dream she had had, yet unable to hold the image of the woman who had stolen her heart. With bare feet the young woman walked over to her balcony and watched the storm wash away the last evidence of summer. Her mind though was at a different place. Those dreams were a recurring incident, making the queen’s heart ache for someone she could never have.

It was tragic. In the midst of her darkest hours she had found light in form of a dragon, only to know she was stuck here in this place with her husband, tied to a marriage that should have never been. She blinked away the tears and took a deep breath. Maybe one day she was going to be free, maybe one day she could decide on fate all by herself. And when this day was to come Regina was going to take what she wanted, including the love and affection of a certain dragon.

The lands surrounding the Dark Fortress were once again fertile. The villagers had feared the dragon regaining her fire, but with the fertile ground they accepted the loss of a few sheeps a month.

Maleficent stood out, looking over the darkening lands as the sun set. The air changed and with the change she spread her wings.

The sight of the dragon against the sky, still sent fear through the people below, but the hunting had mostly ceased making her flights safer. At least until she neared the King’s castle.

Under the cover of the storm’s darkness, Maleficent landed and changed into her human form surrounded by the trees near Regina’s chambers. She stepped out from the tree line, eyes set in the balcony. “There you are,” she whispered as she spotted Regina.

The only thing she considered as some kind of distraction of her misery were the magical lessons she had with Rumplestiltskin. The more she learned about the gifts she had inherited from her mother, the closer her revenge on Snow White came.

The sudden sound of a very familiar voice close to her, snapped the young queen out of her thoughts. The sight of the blonde woman in her chambers was unexpected but didn’t hold her back from smiling. It quickly faded though when she came closer.

As Regina’s smile faded, Maleficent stepped down, into the shadow of the tower. “I wasn’t seen. No one is out in this weather. And your guards are huddled up in their sheds to stay warm and dry.”

The winds were hurling over the mountain tops, bringing message of winter that was soon to arrive in Misthaven. The northern kingdoms were first to witness the change of seasons, including the lands of king Leopold. Yet neither the sound of tree branches aching under its force, the leaves shaking, nor the heavy, cold rain could wake the young queen from the dreams she was trapped in while the storm outside the castle kept singing his terrifying tune.

The young brunette found herself far away from the place she was supposed to call home. In her nightly sleep she was carried away with the winds into another place, a fortress she had visited recently, to a woman who had enchanted her. Against all rational thought the intimidating lady was in her head at all times. Her voice that promised of a better future, her gestures safe and protective.

The sound of thunder was roaring through Regina’s chambers and finally woke her up. For a moment she tried to capture the dream she had had, yet unable to hold the image of the woman who had stolen her heart. With bare feet the young woman walked over to her balcony and watched the storm wash away the last evidence of summer. Her mind though was at a different place. Those dreams were a recurring incident, making the queen’s heart ache for someone she could never have.

It was tragic. In the midst of her darkest hours she had found light in form of a dragon, only to know she was stuck here in this place with her husband, tied to a marriage that should have never been. She blinked away the tears and took a deep breath. Maybe one day she was going to be free, maybe one day she could decide on fate all by herself. And when this day was to come Regina was going to take what she wanted, including the love and affection of a certain dragon.

The lands surrounding the Dark Fortress were once again fertile. The villagers had feared the dragon regaining her fire, but with the fertile ground they accepted the loss of a few sheeps a month.

Maleficent stood out, looking over the darkening lands as the sun set. The air changed and with the change she spread her wings.

The sight of the dragon against the sky, still sent fear through the people below, but the hunting had mostly ceased making her flights safer. At least until she neared the King’s castle.

Under the cover of the storm’s darkness, Maleficent landed and changed into her human form surrounded by the trees near Regina’s chambers. She stepped out from the tree line, eyes set in the balcony. “There you are,” she whispered as she spotted Regina.

Reminiscing felt like old times, comfortable and warm. “You’re not exactly dressed for a night time excursion,” Maleficent said as she got up. “But with a scarf and some gloves, your coat might just be enough to keep you warm.”

The former queen smiled at the sound of her nickname and opened the front door of the cabinet. “You do know I have grown a bit since you have given me that name. In age and size if i may say so”, she teased her dragon and stepped out onto the night.

Fall had approached Maine fast this year and the winds were relentless. The brunette though enjoyed this kind of weather, when the darkness slowly crept over Storybrooke, squeezing out the light summer had brought into town.

Maleficent stopped and crouched down. “Look, you might be destroying nature in this realm, but the common wood-sorrel is still thriving. I use it rather than lemon.” She said as she picked the delicate leaves. “But this can be picked at all times of day.” Maleficent straightened up again.

Even though the moon was high in the sky its light barely made it through the thick crowns of the trees. The brunette didn’t have such a good eyesight as the dragon and helped herself with a little trick. She let small flames dance in the air around them, enlightening their way like tiny little fireflies.

Regina listened to the blonde as carefully as she had done all those years ago. “I know. I still have the book you once gave me about herbs and plants. I happened to look into it from time to time”, she admitted and looked at the leaves.

She didn’t mind if she didn’t find any ingredients tonight. Spending the time with Regina was all she needed.

“I am doing just fine with my heels don’t worry. I have learned to walk with them on any ground if necessary. I am just not the type of person for hiking boots”, she chuckled and looked down at the dragon’s feet.

After a while the forest got less dense. A few moments later the former queen stepped out into a clearing that was covered over and over with moon flowers. They had been a rare breed even back in the enchanted forest, so it came to her as a surprise to encounter those flowers here. The whole place seemed to glow under the dim light of the firmament reflecting on the plants pedals.

The clearing looked even more beautiful in the moon light. Covered by the blooming flowers. “You’re welcome,” she replied as she put her basket down. She stepped behind Regina and wrapped her arms around her.

For a moment Regina was grateful it was dark enough so Maleficent didn’t see how she was blushing. Instead of a response she turned around in her arms, pulled her down and kissed her deeply.

They made their way around the meadow, so they wouldn’t destroy too many flowers. A little further into the darkness of the woods, Maleficent found small patches of her desired flowering herbs.

The thought off a hot bath in that moment seemed too good to be true. “You know how to make me happy”, the brunette said with a smile. She kept her eyes on the dark path when they walked back to the cabin. Something had disturbed the peace and quiet of the woods and it had definitely not been them.

For a moment the former queen stopped by the front door and listened to the secrets of the night, hoping she was going to catch something that explained her sudden uneasiness. After a few seconds she shook it off and followed the dragon inside. Immediately she approached the fireplace and warmed her stiff fingers.

“Oh most definitely,” Maleficent said as she took off her coat and sat down to unlace her boots. She rubbed Regina’s shoulder gently. “I’ll be right back, carrying wine.” She promised as she hurried into the surprisingly spacious bathroom and turned on the tab for a warm bath.