Disclaimer: I own neither the characters nor the rights to Once Upon a Time.

Chapter Twenty - What Happens to All Heroes

It was nightfall. There was no light but the moon and the stars and the glowing fireflies. Dirt and crumbled stone was all that was left of the well. The monster that spawned from this site would remain buried forever, all because of the Savior.

There was no sign of the pawnbroker; all that lingered from his presence were footprints and the indentations of a cane. Storybrooke's mayor (and Fairytale Land's Evil Queen) lay sprawled on her back, unconscious but alive. Crumpled not far away was the blonde Savior, mumbling softly, her life-force slipping.

Regina came to with a pain in her side. There was no blood, yet the spreading bruise attested to a hard fall. She shook away her blurry vision and gasped when her protector came into view.

"Emma?"

To Regina, the well monster could not have been defeated if she was feeling such overwhelming terror. It was the kind of terror that stole her breath and stopped her heart. She had experienced this before, seeing her true love looking so still and so possibly dead. This time was different, though.

Her adrenaline suddenly kicked in the moment she scrambled to her feet and slid in beside the prone blonde. Once she was turned over Emma's face was revealed to be white as a sheet, her usual pale pink lips turning paler. The whispering coming from these lips came out quick and strained. Regina voice caught at the sight of the woman who had obviously sustained some sort of trauma before the black smoke. Trembling hands hovered over the body as if they desperately wanted to touch but somehow couldn't. With a racing mind and pounding heart she debated what to do first, whether to heal, or comfort, or provide heat to the shuddering body. A proper course of action could not be reached instantly. Regina let out a sob before these timid hands descended.

Emma continued to mumble incoherently until she felt the mayor's hands patting her body, possibly looking for some wound to heal. A drop of water hit her neck and she opened her eyes to witness a tear streaked face contorted in agony. Regina appeared to be in as much pain as Emma – and Emma was experiencing some pain.

Regina took in a shaky breath. It was impossible to act composed when Emma (half present, half elsewhere) was looking at her from beneath heavy lids. "I have to call an ambulance," she spoke out loud more to herself than the hurt woman. She sniffed and wiped her eyes before fishing into her coat pocket.

"No," Emma said weakly. A convulsion shook her and she winced. "There's no time."

Being the defiant woman she was, Regina didn't heed such advice. She blinked the tears back as she squinted at her phone's display. Before she could dial the final number a hand blindly slapped the phone down. Regina gritted her teeth before shouting, "Stop it! You're hurt. I'm calling for help. Now lie still and save your strength." She finished with a sob.

"Regina… it's okay. I'm going to be fine. Just heal me."

The request brought a gasp from the brunette. She was hit with a strong case of déjà vu. But unlike the nightmares and the recent vision of a dreaded future this appeal was genuine. What her eyes were seeing was solid and what her ears were hearing was crystal clear. No vision. No dream. Just reality, no strings attached.

Emma flinched through the pain spreading through her veins, but her voice remained soft, reassuring. "Heal, Regina."

"I can't," the witch shook her head. More tears fell. "My powers are drained. I'm not strong enough."

"You're so stubborn," Emma chuckled lightly, "you know that? Here," Regina's hand was taken and placed on a slowly rising chest. Emma shut her eyes and covered the hand with her own. "Just focus. Feel my heartbeat."

Regina's fingertips caressed the silk of her own blue shirt. She shook her head and then Emma slipped the hand to the skin underneath. The sensation caused Regina's breath to hitch. She had expected the warm skin that had once touched hers, the flesh that had rubbed with and molded over her own during those wistful hours they had shared. The cold as steel flesh under her palm was a shock to Regina's system and crushed every last hope remaining. "You're so cold."

"I'm fine," Emma repeated. Her chest slowed its rhythm.

After a few seconds that felt like hours Regina sighed. "It's not working. I have nothing left." Her thumb caressed the spot. She squeezed her eyes shut as more tears were shed. "I'm sorry, Emma. I'm so sorry."

"I know you. You can do this." The whispers could barely cut through the wind, the crickets, and the crying coming from the other woman. The pins and needles wracking the sheriff's body and the misery it was causing her love were too much for Emma to bear. With what little strength left she smiled and said, "I have faith in you… even though… you can be…"

As soon as Regina opened her eyes she wished she hadn't. A strangled cry let loose from her salty lips.

Henry watched his pencil roll off the open pages of his book, past the algebraic equations and multiples of two and taking a suicide drop off the edge. It continued to make its journey across the desk, gaining speed until its progress was stopped by the finger of a ten-year-old.

Math was not a favorite subject of the boy's. He much rather preferred recess and lunch like most children his age did. He also preferred spending time with his family. Quality time with the parents had slowed to a minimum lately and this was cause for worry. Henry had noticed this widening divide between his mothers and was quick to blame himself. Usually the subject of such fights revolved around their son, but so much time had passed since then and Henry had believed those days were in the past. He remembered the heated arguments where they would get up real close to one another, glaring and seething like rivals. However intense those moments were, he also witnessed other moments between them: smiling, laughing, staring (the non-glaring type), and lingering touches. Evidence like that would suggest feelings of love, not hate.

After a long sigh the pencil was placed in the crease of his textbook. The instrument didn't stay put, of course. He watched with boredom as its jagged edges plowed end over end across his homework.

There he was in Nolan's house biding his time in front of a boring book because his mother had something to take care of. Henry thought Regina didn't want him home because she didn't want him to overhear the shouting. She didn't want him to know his parents had reverted back to their old ways. Henry's shoulders dropped at the thought that he was yet again the reason why his parents were not together.

He wished the leather bound tome was still in his possession. Maybe there was a page he missed, some story about his mother that would have opened his eyes to the person she really was. There had to be something in that book; a childhood she never talked about, the dreams she never fulfilled, a past self so repressed and lost it seemed would never reemerge. Until Emma.

A dull pang attacked his chest. Henry clutched at the area as it spread. It wasn't painful like a wound, but horrifying like a warning. It was a dreadful feeling and Henry couldn't stop the alarm from taking over. As Kathryn Nolan started calling for him excitedly the pencil rolled off the desk's edge, forgotten.

Regina couldn't believe this was happening to her again. The evidence in her arms was exactly why she didn't want to get involved with Emma. Giving her heart to the blonde felt like the only decent thing she had ever accomplished. It came as a surprise to Regina that she still had it in herself to love again. After Daniel the likelihood of doing so a second time seemed impossible, but then Emma invaded her life, shattering that theory. Emma had fought with her, laughed with her, loved with her, and where did it lead them? What had it cost them? All that remained of Emma was a still heart and a lifeless body that Regina clung to desperately. Just like with Daniel.

"Emma, dear, you must stay awake. Stay with me."

From behind, Regina wrapped her arms around the blonde who was laying limp into her body. The mayor shook and scratched manically at the lifeless form until she lost all strength to do so.

"Don't leave me. Please, I need you here." She shivered not from the cold of night but from the price that was paid. The truth dawned on her at that moment. Her voice shook as she finished, "You are my happiness." The words could hardly escape her heaving chest but they managed to pass through trembling lips which she then pressed sloppily to Emma's temple.

Regina thought how hard the woman had fought for her. Emma had saved her life multiple times, the most recent attempt ending in what seemed to be her own demise. It was strange that Emma had admitted her fear of giving her whole self to another, of taking without returning. It was strange because just minutes earlier Emma had done the complete opposite. Regina couldn't be sure of what was going through the blonde's mind when she launched herself between her and the monster. She couldn't be sure if this selfless act was spurred on by Emma's duty as Savior or by love. Regina didn't know because Emma didn't get a chance to tell her.

Regina willed her eyes open to stare down at the leather jacket that was clutched into her fists. Though the thing was the object of most of her loathing she took the time to really study it. She could feel all its glossiness and its imperfections, the smooth parts and the creases that interceded. This was something that belonged to a woman who had traveled, who had seen many things, and experienced so much. She inhaled deeply, smelling earth, cheap perfume, and French fries. It smelled like Emma.

The metals buttons shined back at her in the moonlight. Still clutching the jacket she gathered the lapels tighter around the body and held it close. The chest beneath her hands remained motionless. Regina buried her face into the blonde curls she loved so much. She loved the bounce of those silken waves and how they tickled her skin. She loved so much it hurt.

Regina never got to say those words. There was too much that had been left unsaid, so many things she wanted to experience with Emma. These experiences ranged from mundane subjects of conversation to spending quality time with their son to planning the upcoming Christmas holiday together. Regina had also been hoping to share even more in what their hunger for each other produced. She realized she would never feel Emma's lips on hers, never hear her name being cried out as the woman reached her peak, or feel the warm arousal spilling into her palm. Now it would all be a memory, and as time passed on, a faint emotion… just a lingering touch that fizzled into nothingness. It would be like someone that always seemed a part of her would be gone forever.

A most ordinary thought struck her. "I never even got to show you that stupid scrapbook." A soft chuckle followed by more tears. "You would have hated it. 'Emma Swan and crafts don't mix' I'm sure you'd say." She cried even harder at the realization that Emma would no longer throw such artful sarcastic comments her way.

"I actually like the scrapbook," came a gravelly voice. Emma cleared her throat, "but I wish it had more of you in it."

It was like Regina had been punched in the stomach and slapped in the face all at the same time. Her head shot up as she gave an audible gasp. "You knew?!"

"I snoop." Emma shrugged weakly under the embrace. "It's what I do."

A sharp reprimand for breaking into her study was in order, but the shock of a living, breathing Emma held precedence. Before shifting her body to look into green eyes she spotted a bright golden glow from her hands. Her remaining magic healed what she loved most. Regina didn't even realize she was doing it.

Emma grunted under the crushing weight of the bear hug. She muffled against a shoulder, "Where are we? What happened?"

Regina let go and smacked her good. "You played the hero, you stupid fool!"

"Ow! I just came back from the dead, could you be a bit gentle?!"

The brunette brought her in for a less voracious hug and nuzzled her neck reverently.

Emma and Regina basked in the miracle of the moment, laying strategically placed kisses, inhaling each other's scent (in all its earthy, sweaty glory), touching the warmth of their cheeks and hands. They ceased to speak, but simply held on with immeasurable adoration and would not let go.

"Whatever you did it worked." Regina sniffed up the last of joyful tears. "The well – or what is left of it – should not be a problem anymore."

Emma smirked proudly. "…Wasn't even thinking about the well. I just knew I needed to get to you."

Their fingers laced together with ease. "Maybe there's a bit of magic in you after all."

The idea brought a smile to the blonde's lips. She sighed happily and nestled a head to the brunette's breast. "I love you, dear." The whisper tumbled effortlessly from brightening lips which turned up into a mischievous grin.

"You stole my line." Regina's glare disappeared to make room for shining eyes and a snicker. "I love you back my brave, stubborn sheriff."

Storybrooke General was as bustling as it had ever been. The Charming duo fulfilled the prophecy by breaking the Queen's spell with a kiss of true love. The result of such a momentous event spread like a domino effect as each and every one of the Fairytale Land characters awoke from their 28 year sleep. In addition to the lifting of a curse, the Savior's final act as hero was successful in defeating the well monster and freeing its victims from their nightmare prison.

The people of Storybrooke gathered at the hospital to greet newly awakened loved ones and converse with friends they hadn't seen since the curse robbed them of their true selves.

The blonde savior had lapsed in and out of consciousness on the drive to this lively hospital. Though Emma's breathing remained steady Regina never stopped fretting over her condition and talked on in an effort to keep her awake. The constant gabbing and worrying during the seemingly long journey made Emma want to fall back under. As grateful as it was to be alive she simply longed for a warm bath, a cheeseburger, and a comfy bed (burger first). As Emma was lifted onto a gurney and rolled into the building she prayed that Dr. Whale had good news for a speedy release.

Regina fixed her eyes on Emma the whole ride to the emergency room. She ran beside the gurney, one hand in the blonde's and the other with a death grip on the rail. So focused on her love, the once queen was not aware of her audience. Her enemies surrounded her, glaring, whispering, and growling plans for her execution. The nurses wheeled the sheriff past Princess Abigail who looked on the trotting mayor with a disappointing tear. Sitting on the steps was Jefferson shaking his head and planning his vengeance. They turned a corner which revealed Jiminy pacifying a growling Red. No one approached the brunette because it would seem that their savior didn't want bloodshed. Despite the one not being transported by gurney, Regina was under the protection of their sheriff. There would be no assassination, yet.

By the time they arrived at the ER Regina had to be physically restrained from entering so that Whale could conduct his tests. She watched from behind the glass as Emma was poked and prodded with needles and hooked up to various machines. Though the worst was over Regina's heart would not stop racing. She had come so close to losing the woman and just because Emma insisted she was fine did not mean she was. The worrying would cease when a clean bill of health was issued and a signature roll of green eyes was presented. Her hands pressed against the glass as she observed with a staggering need to be on the other side.

The sound of squeaking sneakers and labored breathing brought Regina's gaze from the room to the boy running into her arms. "Henry!"

"Mom!"

Mother and son gripped each other with intense love. Henry didn't care that the whole town would soon be out for her blood. He was a boy in need of his mother and all her wrongdoings as Evil Queen took a backseat to this priority.

"Are you okay? You're not hurt are you?"

Regina's breath hitched. She had longed to hear such words from him and the concern he was displaying almost brought her to tears. "No, dear, I'm fine. I brought Emma here to be checked out." Henry's eyes widened, assuming the worst. She quickly shook her head and cupped his cheeks to instill just the reverse. "She's going to be okay. Dr. Whale simply needs to conduct a few routine tests. I'm sure you can see her as soon as she's cleared." The boy breathed a sigh of relief. "Henry, how did you get here?"

"Once I heard what happened I came right over. Mrs. Nolan – I mean…"

"Mrs. Nolan what?"

"Well," he started, avoiding her eyes while shifting his weight, "what I meant to say was Princess Abigail drove me here." His eyes met her widening brown orbs. "The curse is broken, mom."

If the mayor's son didn't have a hand on her arm she would have stumbled back. Henry saw the devastation materializing and suddenly felt a great sympathy for her. No matter what crimes she had committed in the past that was where they were, in the past. Regina was a changed person thanks to Emma. A cool spirit had settled itself within this woman. The brokenhearted queen that had ripped away happiness, separated true loves, and taken lives had been succeeded by a truly brave soul, an individual who had risked her life to save not only her family but her enemies as well. Regina Mills was not just a changed woman. She was a hero.

Regina finally sensed the others assembled in the hospital. The chilling looks were aimed in only one direction. The Evil Queen would have cut each and every one of those peasants down with a promise to destroy their happiness and then made her exit in a puff of smoke, however, the soon-to-be ex-Mayor of Storybrooke and true love of the Savior stayed put before those threatening stares. For the first time, the people of Storybrooke had made their mayor quake under their presence.

Regina took the small hands in hers just like her son did when he begged her to hunt down Emma and bring her home. "Henry, I didn't mean to lie to you. Once Emma found out we decided it was best to keep it secret, for your protection. I was going to help her break the curse. You have to believe that."

The boy studied the woman's face in all its contours and emotions. He scrutinized as if he had the Savior's ability to detect a lie, but he didn't need a superpower to read his own mother. It only took one look for Henry to know the truth. "I know," he stated. "I saw it before. You really have changed."

It was all Regina needed to hear for her heart to become whole. A thumb stroked adoringly at his cheek. They shared a smile that sealed their destiny as devoted mother and loyal child.

When the doctor emerged Regina approached him with hopeful countenance. Henry's eyes practically burned through the glass in search of his biological mother who was bedridden, eyes closed, yet relaxed.

"How is she?" spoke the brunette in a shaky voice.

"Stable," answered Whale. "I recommend that Sheriff Swan stay overnight. I want to monitor her progress just to be sure she's one hundred percent before I release her."

"Can we see her?"

"I'm afraid not." Whale shifted his sympathetic eyes from Henry (still nose to the glass) toward Regina. All compassion and sensitivity left his face to make room for the very same expression the others had given her. His tone was sharp as a razor when he said, "But even if visitors were permitted at this stage they would be immediate family only."

Everything in the mayor wanted to scream out 'I am family,' but considering Snow and James were somewhere in the vicinity she decided not to make that argument. Instead, Regina called upon her mayoral boldness (and a little essence of Evil Queen) to turn things her way.

Breathing in anxiety and exhaling to release that tension, Regina put on one of her signature, if not deadly, glares and took a step forward. "Emma Swan is my son's biological mother. She also happens to be the woman I love. So if you," she jabbed a finger into his chest, "don't let me in there then so help me I will run you out of this world and into the next before you can say 'Will there be nuns there?'"

Dr. Whale stumbled back by the sheer determination on the woman's face.

"Are we clear… Doctor?"

There was a fierce nod and then, "O-of course!"

Henry watched in awe. Unlike Whale and the onlookers, he was seeing a woman in love that desperately needed to be at Emma's side. Henry was so proud of the mayor for openly displaying such concern for a sheriff she once openly detested, so when he saw her rush to the other woman's bedside he decided to give his mothers their much needed time alone.

Just as Henry saw Regina slip her hand into Emma's and mumble something the glass prevented him from hearing there arose a commotion in the hallway.

"Emma! Where is she?" Snow's voice was frantic. She came barreling down the hall with her prince in tow. "We heard she was admitted. Is our daughter alright?"

Henry waved them over. He assured them that Dr. Whale had just seen Emma and that she was resting comfortably. He was about to tell them of the blonde's other visitor when his grandmother interrupted with a shriek.

"Oh my god!" The short brunette covered her mouth in horror. "Is that the queen?!"

"Regina?" James' attention followed where his wife's was aimed. "That witch!" he growled at the sight of his greatest enemy sitting at the bedside of his long lost daughter. His eyes beheld the hand reach up to caress the blonde's cheek. It was enough to make him dive through the glass to perform a rescue.

But before the knight could make his gallant (if not misplaced) endeavor his grandson intervened. "She may have been the Evil Queen before but she isn't anymore. Emma changed her. She's done hurting people." Snow opened her mouth but the boy continued. "I've seen the good in her and it's not an act."

"Henry, sweetheart, you don't know her like we do. Regina is good at playing people. I know you think she's doing good, but she's simply showing you what you want to see. It's an illusion."

"She's right, Henry." James clapped his hand on the boy's shoulder. "The Evil Queen has been given plenty of chances to redeem herself. Each and every one of those times was met with threats against our lives. There is no more good in that woman. She will destroy everything our family loves… which means Emma."

James made a move to enter the sliding glass doors but Henry weaseled in, putting himself between his grandparents and the parents he knew now to be in love. "She's my mom!" he countered with a hardened gaze that matched a similar expression of said mom. He turned to witness Emma chuckling at something Regina had said. "They're both my moms." Henry never wanted so much in that moment for Emma and Regina to be a part of his family – and not as separate parents to him. Witnessing how well they were conversing and how relaxed his adoptive mother's posture was he knew whatever fight that had occurred between them was forgotten and perhaps even forgiven. He liked them this way. He liked that they held hands and exchanged meaningful smiles. Once he came to a satisfying conclusion as to why that was Henry faced his grandparents. "I've seen the way they look at each other. It's exactly how you two act." He emphasized his final words with a passion they had never seen. "It's true love."

Snow and James looked at each other and then at the couple beyond the glass. Whatever confusing scene they had perceived when they arrived was now made clear with those spoken words. James saw the blonde's smile widening and the tip of her head as if in understanding or affection. He also noticed how easily she laughed and the undisturbed way her body responded in the witch's presence.

While her husband was having his epiphany Snow studied the pair's hands and how snugly they fit together. The girl who had saved her life and taught her about true love was sweeping a thumb across her daughter's hand. It was the gentlest sign of warmth Snow had ever seen and the gesture reminded her of that carefree girl who had spoken of love and magic all those years ago. Emma gripped the caressing hand as if it was all the comfort she needed in the world. The sight of this desperation caused jealousy to burn within Snow, but she quickly pushed it down. This was clearly what her daughter wanted. This was who her daughter was falling in love with. She neither expected this nor wanted to believe it, but the evidence was presented clear as day beyond the glass barrier. It was no spiteful illusion. It was the magic of true love.

Henry noticed the sad, yet quiet expressions and the way his grandparents' hands blindly found each other. He sighed in relief at the work he had accomplished.

A hum vibrated between closed lips at the sight of a sleeping Emma. Sitting beside her Regina tipped her head and let her eyes drag down the form. There wasn't a mark on the woman, no sign of trauma, and no indication of the death she narrowly escaped. She was the image of an ordinary 28-year-old sleeping off a little stress. But Regina knew better. This blonde woman was extraordinary. Emma Swan had ignited love, setting a spark to a flame that had been extinguished for decades. It was a feat only accomplishable by the most dogged fighter, an angel willing to give a sinner a second chance, someone who was all-too wary of her savior destiny.

Regina took the hand of the woman who had lit her soul. "You're strikingly beautiful." She kept her voice down so as not to disturb the sheriff's slumber. "I never said that enough. In fact, I don't think I have ever told you."

Emma stirred beneath the hospital's soft blue blanket. "Hey," came the greeting. She didn't need to open her eyes to identify her visitor.

"How are you feeling?"

"Just tired is all," the sheriff answered, giving a reassuring grin. "I'm fine."

Beholding still shut lids Regina bristled. "I'm coming to the conclusion that you don't understand the concept of 'fine,' dear."

Emma laughed and opened droopy eyes to affirm the presence of mockery. Instead, she was met with worry lines and honest brown eyes.

She thought of all the times they had gotten each other out of a tight (and usually deadly) situation. A fire… a wrecked Mercedes… a wolf… the Dark One… a fear inducing monstrosity… Despite having ended up in such dire circumstances Emma found herself to be a very lucky woman. To rescue her true love and be rescued in return was an honor indeed. "You saved me again," Emma stated with fondness.

Reaching out with her other hand Regina stroked the blonde's cheek. "You saved everyone. The curse has been lifted." Green eyes widened and the brunette explained, "Whatever you said to David worked. He was able to use true love's kiss in bringing everyone's memories back."

"So… Mary Margaret is okay? She woke up?"

Regina nodded despite her objections to the woman's fate. "When you so heroically threw yourself in front of me the fear couldn't overthrow you entirely. You must have a strong heart, Miss Swan." To witness such a thing, her hand disengaged from its other half and settled on the blonde's steadily rising and falling chest. "I blacked out just as the smoke was receding, but I know for sure your sacrifice was not in vain. If you hadn't given yourself over to that thing those people would still be lying comatose, even after my curse was broken." Regina diverted her gaze and grinned shyly. "I've never seen such courage."

Emma cleared her throat to distract from the stinging her eyes were experiencing. As strong as this savior was she was wholly unfamiliar with such compliments and just as unprepared to hear them from a woman who once upon a time detested her. Their eyes met.

"I am so proud of you, Emma."

Shifting under the blanket the blonde winced animatedly. "This soft side of you… it's kind of unsettling."

There was a fiendish snicker. The witch drawled, "There are ways to remedy that."

"Next time you're cross with me I'll have to remember to do something heroic. Or turn on my Emma Swan charm."

"Charm?" scoffed Regina. "Let's not resort to extremes, dear."

Pink lips widened further as Emma basked in the long overdue sarcasm à la Madam Mayor. The hairs on her back hand rose to the ghost like sensation of a thumb. Emma allowed the fingers to make their seductive entrance into to her palm. She gripped the hand with desperation, hoping its digits would never cease to elicit such wonderful sensations.

Regina took a deep breath and let it out unsteadily. "I've never been so happy and so afraid in my entire life."

"My parents?"

"And the entire town I cursed."

"They may be pissed off –" Regina's brow rose, "– okay they're gonna be really pissed off, but once we tell them what you did and how you risked your life for everyone they will eventually see who I see."

"And who is that?"

Emma bit her lip. "A condescending mayor with a nice ass."

"Miss Swan!" the brunette reproached over the giggling.

"I see a good person who has made some mistakes and got lost along the way. You're no different from the rest of us." Emma gave a comical wink of her eye. "There is nothing evil about you. You, Regina Mills, are all brains and beauty. And you take my breath away."

Regina turned away to smooth down the blanket wrinkles, focusing on a stubborn crease towards the patient's knee. "Look who's getting soft now?"

A shrug and then, "You asked for it."

After the blanket was properly cared for Emma was met with shining brown irises brimming with gratitude. She then noticed movement beyond the doors to her hospital room and leaned to the side in order to get a better look. "I wonder what's going on out there."

The inquiry and the steadily rising chatter outside prompted the Regina to see for herself. There standing tall and oddly regal was Henry Mills addressing a crowd of Storybrooke citizens. Flanking the boy were his grandparents, Snow with a protective hand on the adolescent's shoulder, and James arms crossed and standing like an immovable statue. It looked like, Regina supposed, the three were barricading the glass doors from a vengeful mob.

"They are here for me."

Emma's hand was caught in a vice grip born of regret and panic. She had never heard Regina speak in such a small voice, so stripped of its usually sharp, tactful quality. A tremor passed between their touching hands, seeping like ink into the blonde who then turned it into a harmless flow of warmth. Regina's fear subsided, the blonde's touch acting like a buffer to these dark sensations. Emma had sworn to do whatever it took to insure the mayor's safety and no matter what came at them – whether dark magic or rampaging townspeople – the Savior would keep her promise. To reinforce the message Emma wrapped her arms around the brunette's waist and pulled her closer. They held each other, watching, waiting for the inevitable.

But there was no need to show such protection, for their son had things well under control. Henry (standing on a crate to get some height) was delivering what appeared to be an eloquent speech while waving a hand deliberately to his points. His audience included Red and Granny, Jiminy, Leroy and his dwarf friends, Abigail and Frederick, and others. They listened impatiently, some shifting uncomfortably while others sighed out their frustration. Most of their negative spirits seemed to be gradually quelled by the young boy's speech with Snow's added contribution.

"Looks like we have a hero of our own," Emma commented with smile. It was the first time she was experiencing motherly pride in her son.

Regina sank back into her lover's arms, more relaxed at the sight of their ten-year-old boy defending them. "Mm, I think he gets that from you."

"Nu-uh," Emma shook her head, "It's those public speaking skills he's learned from the master. And that brutal persuasion… that is all you."

Fully aware she was being teased Regina slapped away the roaming fingers and glared. "I did have a life beyond politics. Not all my qualities are so brutish."

"I am well aware of that, Madame Mayor." The blonde grinned slyly. Before Regina could soften her demeanor for a long outstanding kiss Emma interceded with a question that had been nagging her. "I guess they would still need to exact some sort of punishment." Lips were forced into a thin, irritated line. "Although there's no justification in doing so if this world is markedly better than the other one."

"I may escape execution, but it would be naïve to think there are no repercussions for what I've done. I can't deny this world may have its benefits. That still doesn't disregard the 28 years I robbed from them." Regina gave a sad smile. "I'm afraid you will not get the satisfaction of calling me Madame Mayor anytime soon."

"So what will you do?"

"I've been mayor for so long I don't know anything else. Except…" the brunette wrung her hands nervously at the thought, "… I suppose I could become a stay-at-home mother to Henry. But then I haven't exactly done a good job of that." Eyes closed at the times she had lied to her son, forced him into therapy he didn't need, and neglected to love him the way he deserved. "I could use your help." Her voice was soft and vulnerable. The former Evil Queen was not used to admitting her inability at doing things herself.

"You don't even have to ask." The blonde Savior took the hand in hers. "You know, the sheriff could use a deputy," she offered with a wiggle of her brows.

Regina rocked back and laughed, shaking the bed in the process. It was certainly a chore to imagine Emma being her superior but then the idea of working under the sheriff brought a cool smile to her lips.

Reveling in the joy she had brought to the amused woman Emma looked from the bright, full smile to the boy holding the now curious attention of the crowd.

She finally understood what Henry was trying to tell her that day she left them. A hero never escapes unscathed from their trials. They go through moments of heartbreak, a time when those hearts are mended, and even more periods of losing faith. To get to your goal a low point must be experienced so you know what is at stake and what is being risked. You must see the dark side of what you are trying to destroy. You must also know evil in order to save one of evil. The storms weathered, the blood that was shed, the trust which shattered… this happens to all heroes and no one flees without the scars.

Emma stared at Regina who was staring back at her and knew that it was all worth it.

"Emma?" The brunette studied the hand of her true love for a moment as if debating whether to go on. "I want you to move in with Henry and me."

In true Regina form it was not phrased as a question, although, the way she shifted fretfully on the bed suggested the opposite. Emma was completely caught off guard and Regina took the blonde's silence to express doubts. She waited patiently as the mayor went on about how it was probably too soon to take things to the next level, that Emma wasn't ready considering her misgivings about long-term relationships, and how she would rather spend time with her newly awakened parents. Instead of worrying over such a quick change of heart Emma thought it adorable how nervous Regina was behaving. She was so used to seeing the woman in control of social situations, always taking the lead without regard for others' contribution. This Regina, the one babbling on and fiddling over non-existent wrinkles in the blanket was too irresistible for Emma to listen patiently to.

"Umph," Regina's rapidly moving lips muffled against another.

"Does that answer your question?"

There was a tilt of a brunette head. "Not quite."

To provide emphasis, the blonde deepened the kiss.

Final Note: After six amazing months this is the end of my very first journey into Swan Queen ficdom. Thank you all so very much for taking a chance on this story and providing me with feedback that was helpful, honest, and touching. I truly would not have been able to finish this if it were not for your reviews, messages, follows and favoriting. Live long and ship Swan Queen on!