Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Something wasn’t right. As the young, beta wolf stalked through the woods, she sank to the ground, trying to keep her ears alert and fighting the need to shrink lower. The stench of open wounds made it hard for her to distinguish who they belonged too. One thing was becoming certain, this scent was unfamiliar.

Ruby was a law enforcer. In human form she deputised at the Sherriff’s office and usually remained in that form when on duty - except when she patrolled the woods. Storybrooke woods were vast, nearing eight times the size of the town, therefore the boundaries were often patrolled to ensure nothing untoward was encroaching on their town, their territory. Right now however, the dark, red wolf continued to stalk closer to whatever had made its way onto their land.

As she neared the edge of a clearing, she heard a small whimpering coming from what seemed to be a young Arctic wolf, but it was hard to confirm under all that blood. Knowing it was of no threat in this state, she trotted to its side and took a moment to examine the situation. It had clearly been attacked, and open wounds were visible on its hind legs, back and underbelly, though none looked immediately deep enough to threaten life. She was unsure how long this wolf had been in this state though, and it had clearly lost a lot of blood. The red wolf edged closer, moving into its line of sight.

The white wolf’s bright green eyes instantly widened and its pupils blew. Ruby noticed it try to move its tail between its legs, though it had difficulty.  Ruby softened her stare, but edged closer. The stench of an omega now clearly emanating from the sorry looking beast. Ruby was not often one for great sentiment, but for some reason, she found herself instantly feeling protective over this new wolf as she slowly sniffed for signs of infection, which she was sadly detecting. She’d become so distracted in her musings that she’d let her guard down. Suddenly, the sound of snapping twigs and a new rustling pulled her from said musings. She spun around, instantly leaping in front of the wounded wolf, bearing her teeth. A deep growl emanated from her chest before she caught the scent of the new creature and instantly relaxed.

A young, tundra gamma stepped from within the bushes. ‘Graham,’ Ruby sighed as she saw her brown eyed colleague edge closer. His nostrils flared as he took in the situation and circled the fallen wolf, also trying to assess the damage.

‘What do you want to do? Should we kill her?’ He asked his superior. Ruby was the Beta advisor to the pack, only below the three alphas who made up the rest of the council along with Mary Margaret the head gamma and Belle, their only omega. It was not unheard of to kill trespassing wolves when they encroached into a pack’s territory.

‘You know that is not our way Graham,’ Ruby spat with a bit more venom than intended, something about this wolf really was stirring her protective nature. Ordinarily, the Storybrooke pack escorted trespassers off their territory, occasionally they’d let a lone one hunt within their land, as long as they had an understanding, but that was rare. ‘I think we should help her. We also need to figure out what happened, this could be isolated, but it could also be part of a wider threat or a message of some sort.’ They exchanged a look, trying to ascertain if this was the best option. ‘Go and fetch Regina.’ Within a moment of Ruby’s command being given, Graham lowered his head before taking off at great speed in the direction from which he came. Ruby’s attention was again stolen by another whimper and she turned to face the white wolf.

After circling for a few moments’ ruby settled down and began to lick one of the deepest wounds on the wolfs back to try and help clean and soothe it. With this action, the Arctic wolf instantly relaxed as though she knew they’d decided to help her, at least for now, but her will to fight had long left anyway.

Graham had run as far as he could without risking being seen when he transformed back to human form before proceeding on foot to the town hall. He cursed upon realising the Mayor would be in the middle of the weekly town council meeting. He cursed again when he realised that he should have been there. At least this time he had a good excuse. After quickly weighing his options, he decided to play the emergency card and burst, dramatically through the doors. At least he was out of breath from running so far in human form, which only validated the urgency.

All eyes turned to him, and most froze whilst in the middle of shuffling through papers. It was Granny he noticed first. If he didn’t know her as well as he did, she’d have just looked stern and perturbed, eyeing him over the rims of her half-moon readers, but he could see the flicker of concern in them too.

Granny was the current alpha leader of the pack. Ordinarily she’d have become an elder by now, but things were complicated. Regina as her second took care of most of the physical requirements of her job, leaving only the really important decisions for Granny. They trusted each other as though they were kin, most of the pack did, but their connection was as familiar as Granny’s was with Ruby, who was Granny’s true blood descendant.

Graham's eyes turned to Regina, Mayor of Storybrooke, who’d clearly been addressing the committee.

“Apologies, there was an urgent criminal matter I had to attend too, and I’m afraid I need your help with it Mayor.” He gave both Regina and Granny pointed looks. The only other pack members present at the meeting were David and Leroy, both of whom instantly knew he was not referring to official town business.

“Well, I think this is a good a time as any to wrap this meeting up then.” Declared Regina as she stood, quickly grabbing her things. “Well-done everyone, it seems everything is well underway for the summer fayre.” She followed Granny out as Graham held the door for them.

After ushering them into her office and shutting the door, Granny instantly took charge. “Report!”

“Ruby came across a mauled, arctic omega in the woods, only a few hundred yards from the town.” They took a few moments to digest his words.

“An artic omega, that’s a rarity anywhere, let alone around here. Has she transformed?” Granny enquired as Graham shook his head.

“I think she’s too weak.”

“Which leaves us with two problems. One, do we help her and two, how to do so discreetly if she can’t transform?” Offered Regina.  Graham cowed a bit before speaking again.

“Ruby is already trying to clean her wounds.”

“Well that leaves us little option, doesn’t it Sheriff? We must help her now.” Granny’s tone was harsh, she was not impressed by such a big decision being made without council, but she could understand the urgency here, which only left room for damage control. Graham kept his gaze down and scuffed his feet, not liking being dressed down by his Alpha. Unusually, it was Regina who came to his rescue; it was not normally like her to show so much understanding.

“It probably is our only option Granny.” The elder woman’s eyes snapped to her number two in an instant. Regina held her gaze firm. “She’s an omega, so not a threat, but those who mauled her might be. We need to know who she is and, more importantly, who did this to her?” Granny’s hard gaze slowly softened.

“Then I suggest you deal with this Regina.” With a quick head nod from the brunette alpha and a lower one from Graham, they turned to leave as Granny called out to them. “The packs secrecy and safety are your responsibility in this matter Regina, do remember that!” The Mayor turned to acknowledge the command.

“Always.” She said as her parting word.

As soon as they neared the edge of the wood, both transformed and instantly took off. Racing behind the tundra was a very sleek and long haired, black wolf with grey and white flecks and streaks around her neck, knees, and paws. Her chocolate eyes now surrounded by a bright purple ring that almost glowed in contrast to her fur. All dark eyed wolves had a similar ring to enable better night vision. Graham’s was bright blue and Ruby’s green.

Within less than a minute of racing they had reached the wounded wolf, who was still being cleaned by Ruby. With one look from Regina, Graham began to circle the perimeter of the clearing, on constant watch for other intruders.

Regina lowered her head slightly and slowly crept closer to the arctic. Her head tilting from side to side as she assessed and weighed her options. The first thing to hit her was the smell this omega gave off. Even in this state it was somehow calming, even intoxicating. Whilst all omega’s were calming, she’d not yet come across one she found so intoxicating.  As with Ruby, the uncharacteristic need to protect this wolf flooded her system. She even found herself having to suppress an irrational growl aimed at the head beta, who was still sat soothing her.

Shaking this off, the black wolf crept closer still, approaching the face of the young wolf. She towered over her white face as her dark eyes bored into green pools. The white wolf stilled, and her tail again tried to creep between her legs as she pulled her head in as far as she could, her ears pressed back with her pupils once again blown. Regina narrowed her eyes, not looking overly threatening, but clearly wanting to show who was in charge. She waited to see what reaction this would have on the newcomer. After a few moments, it was clear the other wolf was almost frozen in submission, she softened her eyes and lowered her belly to the ground, lying her face on the ground. They were now lying nose to nose.

At this display, Ruby instantly stood to attention and Graham, also took note. The white wolf’s green eyes met the near brown's with curiosity and instantly softened before they darkened and her tail began to slowly wag. Ruby and Graham neared the pair, though Graham turned to ensure he kept his eye out for any trouble, but he felt more like he was keeping vigil for something. For a good while nothing happened beyond the fact the white wolf had now calmed, dramatically.

Regina slowly stood and in an unheard-of-act, transformed into human form, though this time she’d chosen to wear figure hugging dark jeans, knee length boots, and leather jacket over a white tank top.  She hoped to look less intimidating than she would have in the power suit she’d donned earlier.  Ruby and Graham exchanged a concerned look. It was fine to transform, but never in front of unknown wolf. This could potentially compromise the integrity of the pack.

‘Regina! W.. What are you doing?’ Regina crouched in front of Ruby, noting the concern on her face, though now she was human form; she could no longer communicate telepathically. Graham also approached in concern.

“I know what you are thinking, but there is no other way. She needs urgent help and can’t walk or transform. She will need to be carried. This is on me and I will make sure it doesn’t affect the pack.” She looked to Graham. “Run ahead and grab your squad car. Call Whale and tell him to meet us at the back entrance to the hospital, tell him to be discreet.” Without a second thought he ran off.

Before she could turn back to the injured wolf she noticed Ruby standing on hind legs and pawing at her with front paws. She knew what was going through the wolfs mind.

“No, you cannot transform, this is all on me. Walk with us then run off when Graham arrives.” Without further thought Regina knelt and tried as carefully as she could to gently lift and cradle the whimpering beast. She was thankful for her added Alpha strength, as for an omega, this one was surprisingly large and muscular.  More so than several beta’s and gamma’s she could think of. Belle would look almost juvenile compared to this one.

By the time they arrived at the woodland edge, Graham was waiting with the squad car. Regina watched Ruby scamper off before carefully laying the wolf on the backseat. She scooted in next to her, gently taking her head and resting it on her lap, all the while trying to keep her calm by soothingly stroking her head and releasing pheromones that should give the omega a sense of protection and security. The whimpering from all the movement slowly calmed as Regina’s efforts began to pay off.

It was two days before Whale would allow anyone in to see his patient. There was a small theatre located in the basement of the hospital that basically doubled as small veterinary surgery for the sole use of the pack when frozen in Wolf form, though it was rare for this to be the case. This clinic was separate and hidden from the domestic pet clinic in town and manned by Dr Victor Whale, who ordinarily worked as a Medical Doctor. He was a beta within the pack and one of their two healers. The other, Archie, was more holistic and dealt with only minor injuries when out and about in wolf form, he also dealt with the emotional and spiritual well-being of the pack, unlike Dr Whale who’d be more like battery acid to one’s brain.

After a day of treatment, the new wolf had managed to transform back into human form. Only Dr Whale had dealt with her thus far and she’d refused to divulge anything to him, not even her name. He’d only told her that the resident wolf pack had saved her and that he’d allow access to them when she was well enough. Today was that day and seen as they’d already made contact in both human and wolf form, plus she’d taken the responsibility on herself anyway, Regina was the first to make a proper first contact. Truth be told, she’d been chomping at the bit to see this young omega again. That alone unnerved her, but her instincts had always been strong, though not usually in this area.

Not wanting to scare the woman, whom Victor informed had seemed very scared and timid since she awoke and transformed, Regina tentatively knocked on the door and waited for a few moments before deciding to enter. She slowly opened the door and stepped into the room. Her eyes immediately went to the woman who was sitting up in her bed, eyeing the door as it opened with the sheet pulled all the way up to her chin. When she saw who was standing by the door, she instantly relaxed and lowered the sheet to her lap as Regina took a few steps closer. 

Regina took a moment to assess the woman in the bed. She was quite the contrast to her. Blonde, wavy locks fell over her slender, muscular frame and familiar green eyes remained locked on her. It seemed the woman was doing the same to her.

“How are you feeling?” Asked Regina, cautiously, as Emma nodded and smiled, but still didn’t say anything. Regina let out a sigh of frustration to which she noticed the blonde tense a bit. The brunette took a deep breath. “Look, I don’t want thanks or gratitude, but I do expect answers. Either speak or nod twice if you can’t actually speak.” After another cautious moment Emma finally broke her silence.

“I’m fine and thank you.” It was a timid voice and surprisingly raspy, but at least it was a voice. Regina smiled at the small victory.

“Good.” Regina took a step closer and perched herself on the end of the bed, ensuring she maintained a good distance. “My name is Regina Mills and I’m the Mayor of this town and Number two of the resident pack. What’s your name?” Plucking a bit more courage, the shy woman finally found some strength of voice.

“Emma, Emma Swan…” The blonde was clearly still a bit distressed. Regina noted how she tucked her hair behind her ear and refused to make eye contact. “I… I just wander I guess, mainly in wolf form. I may as well not exist as a human.” Regina furrowed her brow, she hadn’t known what to expect, but that certainly wasn’t it.

“You stay in wolf form? What of your pack or family of any sort?” Emma twiddled her fingers.

“I don’t have any family left. I was still a juvenile when I was out learning to hunt with my mother. We were attacked. She died and I had to flee, they kept chasing me. I was covered in blood; there was so much of it everywhere.” Her hands began to shake and her eyes could no longer contain her tears. It was clear she’d rarely spoken of this before, if ever.  Regina decided to allow her space to continue.

“I completely lost my bearings. I had so much adrenaline and I guess I outran them, or they gave up for some reason.  I wound up near a river and cleaned myself. It was then I realised I had no idea where I was. I didn’t recognise anything and after hours of wandering I still couldn’t recognise anything, not even a scent. My mother was all I had so I decided I may as well keep running. I spent years as a wolf, I can’t remember how many, I lost track of time entirely.” Regina contemplated her story with great intrigue.

“Are you telling me that you have been on your own in wolf form ever since you were an adolescent?” Emma nodded not really knowing whether this was good or not. “Well, I must say, Kudos for surviving that long, what are you now? Late twenties?”

“What year is it?”

“2012” Emma looked shocked.

“Wow! In that case I’m around twenty eight and I’ve been living as a wolf for around twelve years now. It’s surreal to be human again to be honest. When Dr Whale insisted I transform, it took me a while to orientate myself and remember how.” Regina’s eyes narrowed.

“Talking of that man, has he treated you well?” Emma looked puzzled at this.

“Yes, I mean, he’s a bit cold but he healed me and fed me. Why?”

“No reason, a cold Whale is not a bad Whale. It’s not that he’s a completely insipid person, it’s just sometimes he does think he’s some sort of gift to the female sex, he has been known to push the boundaries of decency on occasion.”

“Oh… He’s been fine, honestly.” Emma shrugged as Regina cast her eyes down and slowly nodded, letting out a breath she didn’t realise she was holding. She was slightly unnerved by the amount of disproportionate relief that shot through her system at that being confirmed. Whilst she wasn’t Whale’s number one fan, she hadn’t known him to not be professional when dealing with his patients and the fact he could maintain that professionalism around an unmated omega was actually quite impressive. She slowly glanced up and bought her eyes back to look at Emma. Butterflies instantly erupted when she saw the small and tender smile on Emma’s face. It almost knocked her off balance.

“What?” Regina quickly threw out.

“Nothing,” Emma said coyly before lowering her head slightly and Regina could swear she saw her blush. After a few moments of them both being lost in thought, Emma’s curiosity got the better of her. “Will you tell me about your pack? Regina edged closer and reached out to place a strand of Emma’s hair behind her head, encouraging her to look up so she could get a better look.

“I’m not going to tell you anything until we clear a few things up first. I need you to tell me what happened to you.” They gazed deeply into each other’s eyes for a few moments. It was not a secret to either of them that the other was appraising how trustworthy the other was, but there was something even deeper as Emma’s mouth suddenly became very dry. She licked her lips in response and the brunette’s eyes instantly snapped to them.  Clearing her throat, Regina leaned back, nodding to indicate Emma should tell her tale.

“I was attacked two moons before your pack found me. It was around a two day walk along the stream that runs towards this town. I don’t know who attacked me, but I know he was big, brown and had a scar running from his lip to his eye that was partially closed. I think…” She trailed off and began playing with the fraying cotton of her gown. Regina placed her fingers under her chin to gently raise her head.  She could smell the distress coming off the omega.

“You think what Emma?” Her voice was soft and calming to the blond who took a deep breath as she realised the alpha was releasing a scent that was comforting and giving her strength.

“I… I think he wanted to mate with me. When I was in season I’d try and stay as close to a river as possible so I could coat myself in mud to try and reduce my scent, but I guess it didn’t work this time. He kept trying to dry hump me, I knew he was trying to get me to transform, but I fought him instead and he eventually got irritated and attacked me before walking away. I didn’t know what else to do so I kept following the river knowing it would eventually lead to a town. I collapsed where you found me.” Regina swallowed the bile that kept threatening to rise as she listened to the blonde’s words. Whilst she found pack dynamics useful in many ways, she couldn’t stand arrogant alpha’s. Their own Killian edged to being such an alpha, but he was more talk than action and as irritating as he was, he’d never truly caused a problem. Their pack prided itself on breaking from normal traditions. Whilst somethings would always be inherent, they didn’t stop anyone from generally achieving what they wanted or ridicule them for being too ‘stereotypical’. As long as everyone treated each other with respect in their pack, they were generally content.

“I’m sorry that happened to you Emma. He had no right to do that, none… The wolf that did that to you is very well known around these parts. His name is Rufio and he’s the number two of the outlaw pack. Whilst we have a tentative truce with them, they are the only major threat around here. They like to spend a lot of their time in the woods in wolf form, but they also like to terrorise their local town. Nothing to heinous, at least that’s what we’ve heard from our sources. They’re more petty criminals if you will.” Regina noticed how Emma seemed to sink into herself at that knowledge. “What is it?” She asked with a hint of concern to her voice.

“You could argue I am a petty criminal. I’ve been known to steal food from a table or a blanket to snuggle into when it’s been especially cold.” Her lip quivered as she confessed, fearing she was going to be seen as disgusting, lowly or worse. That was what animals did not shape shifters. Without a second thought, Regina placed her hands on the shaking woman’s shoulders and released a wave of comforting pheromones. Emma instantly stiffened at this. Sensing, Regina pulled away and took a hold of herself.

“I am so sorry; I have no idea where that compulsion came from. That is not me at all.” Shaking herself she quickly added, “I apologise Miss Swan.” Regina stood immediately and began to straighten out her clothing looking for any and every distraction. Sensing the immediate distress emanating from the brunette, Emma instantly relaxed and felt compelled to soothe her, releasing her own wave of pheromones, also without thought, she grabbed Regina by the hand and pulled her back down, but this time, instigating a hug. Regina let out a gasp as she stiffly reacted.

“No, no, it’s fine, please don’t pull away, it was exactly what I needed, I just didn’t expect it that was all.” Now it was Regina’s turn to struggle to relax. “Please,” Emma quietly cooed into her ear and stroked the back of her head as she released wave after wave of her calming scent. Regina began to relax as they held each other quietly for a few moments. Without really realising she was doing so, Regina began to omit her pheromones again and could feel the muscular woman’s nipples begin to harden against hers that she now realised were also hard. The slight movement caused by their breathing caused them to rub against one another.  Although Regina couldn’t see, Emma’s pupils had blown again, though this time not out of fright. Her stomach also clenched as she felt a warm sensation sweep over her body.

Regina’s mind began to race. She could feel her heart beat in her chest and sensations she could only describe as alien to her. ‘Oh God’ she thought, thankful that the twist of their seating positions meant Emma would be none the wiser. She made a slight move to back away, but Emma held her tight.

“I have never felt like this,” Emma whispered gently into Regina’s ear. The soft breath causing the alpha’s core to alight. She tried to think of something else, anything else, but Emma continued. “So safe, so peaceful, so,” her voice quietened to a breathy lull as her breaths in turn quickened, “so turned on.” Regina’s eyes widened. There was no denying there was a deep attraction between the two, but she refused to be led solely by biology. This was not the way they operated. Though there was no denying that she’d never felt this way before either. Whilst she had an instinctual need to protect her pack, she’d never had such strong feelings for one wolf before. She was warring between wanting to rip this woman’s clothes off and wrap her up in bubble wrap.

She was jolted from her internal battle as a hand moved to her upper thigh, gently stroking it. She gasped again and was about to move when Emma began to suck her earlobe and whispered again. “You are so beautiful…” Regina shuddered as Emma began to move her hand, closer to her centre. The sucking turned to a few nibbles as Emma released a moan.

“Em-ma.” Regina moaned back as she sunk her head into the woman’s neck who'd now began to grind her body into the hug.  Emma moaned at the sound of her name coming from plump, burgundy lips. Wet was now pooling as she felt lightening warmth in her lower abdomen. She grabbed Regina’s hand and interlocked her fingers for a moment as she continued to grind and moan. Regina let out a small growl, causing Emma to practically squeak as she moved Regina’s hands to her centre and whispered into her ear. “I want you to feel how wet I am for you.” Just as the brunette felt the wet that was leaking through her panties, Regina managed to pull herself back to reality and shot up from the blonde as though she’d been burnt.

Emma instantly recoiled and lowered her head. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to get so carried away. I… this has never happened to me before.” Regina instantly knew that the omega in Emma was feeling rejected and the alpha in her needed to do something about it. She moved closer and tentatively placed her hands and either side of the Emma’s shoulders.

“Emma.” Emma remained cowed. “Emma!” Regina now demanded her attention, causing Emma’s head to shoot up. And she placed a gentle hand under her chin to ensure she kept her attention. “Listen to me Emma, I’m not rejecting you. That is the last thing I want to do, do you understand?” Regina was happy with the blonde’s assured nod. “Good. I just don’t want to do anything rash, or like this,” she exclaimed whilst gesturing around the room, which elicited a small giggle from Emma.

“No, I guess not,” Emma added, feeling a lot happier with Regina’s explanation. Regina took a deep breath.

“Look, I’m going to leave and give you some space. Dr Whale thinks you should be able to leave tomorrow. I don’t want you to leave unaccompanied though, so he will call me when you are ready to be discharged. Is that acceptable?” Emma nodded again.

“What will happen to me then?” Regina’s heart instantly panged at the worry shining through those expressive eyes.

“Nothing will happen to you Emma. Firstly, if it can be arranged, would you like to stay with us, with our pack I mean?” Emma frantically nodded at this.

“Yes, please, I want to stay here… with you.” She added coyly at the end. Regina could tell she was trying to release a few more pheromones.

“Don’t!” Regina quickly demanded, not wanting to lose control. “I really don’t need any more of your… persuasion.” She added whilst allowing the corner of her lip to smirk so as Emma would see she meant so kindly. The reciprocating smile told her it had worked. “I will speak to the council tonight and see if they will allow you to come under our protection for now. That’s probably the most I will be able to achieve at present.”

“Thank you.” Emma had never meant those two words more sincerely. Regina couldn’t stop her eyes from beginning to water at the level of genuine and sincere affection flooding from this woman. It unnerved her, the affect the blonde was having on her.

“You’re welcome Emma.” Regina slowly walked to the door before turning and adding and quiet “Good Night,” as she left.

Chapter Text

The following morning, Regina awoke feeling trepidation over the day ahead. Being mayor, this wasn’t necessarily an unusual thing, but what was unusual was the way her emotions seemed to shift. Something about this new wolf had bought a new dimension to her alpha within. She’d always been able to protect and had a strong sense of loyalty, but she’d never ever been this aroused before. Even Belle, the only omega in the pack, who should naturally cause all alpha’s to want her, hadn’t achieved anything close to this. She merely felt more protective of the smaller, grey and white wolf and she’d never ever felt jealousy over another wolf’s interest in her, protectiveness yes, but jealousy, never. She honestly thought there was something wrong with her but as she thought back to the sight of Ruby washing Emma, she practically snarled at the thought, and this was Ruby, who she knew was mated, loyal and a good friend. She worried what she may be capable of if someone did actually threaten her omega. She lay in bed, frozen still with wide eyes at the realisation that that was what her alpha wanted more than anything else, to claim this omega. That was it, she needed a cold shower. She sprang up to prepare for the day ahead, which meant that before she could even go to work she needed to attend the emergency pack meeting beforehand. She had to get her head sorted.

Emma wasn’t fairing any better at the hospital. She clenched her legs together, trying desperately to dispel the heat that travelled through her core. The more she dwelt on it though, the more she thought of Regina and how soft she felt in her arms. How safe and protected she felt. She wanted to cry with the overwhelming emotions that were washing over her. She’d never imagined an alpha could be so strong, and yet so vulnerable and sweet at the same time - never mind how beautiful she was. Truth be told, she’d never even met a female one, she assumed they’d all be male, but as Regina’s face came to mind, Emma began to writhe where she lay. Imagining the brunette's soft lips entwined in her own, claiming her hungrily, then trailing down her neck, her body, her breasts, suckling, nibbling, wanting. Before she knew it her hands were in her panties. She could not believe her need for this woman. She was desperate for her. It was at that exact moment she realised that Regina was her alpha; she wanted to be claimed by this woman. She had to get up and take a cold shower lest she wind up stuck in bed all day, alone with her fantasies.

The pack meeting began at eight, its sole purpose being to determine the immediate fate of one Emma Swan. Regina sat near the fire place in her large mansion, for the first time ever at one of these meetings, her palms were sweaty. She was sure that she was unintentionally releasing pheromones again, but it was harder to tell when they were your own and normally she could control the release. She now felt embarrassed as she sat with Granny, awaiting the others to arrive. She was clearly lost in thought as she startled out of her day dream when Granny placed a hand over hers. She looked into the older woman’s eyes who were staring questioningly at her, she almost looked worried.

“Regina, what’s wrong? You smell like a beacon lass.” Regina’s leg began to twitch as she sighed and placed her head in her hands.

“I’m not sure Granny. I… I think I’ve found my omega. I’ve never felt this way before. I feel like a kettle about to blow and I’m scared, I can’t seem to control myself, my body. I… I don’t want to accidently hurt anyone.” Granny’s smile couldn’t widen if she tried at these words. “What!” Granny pulled Regina’s forehead to her own for a few moments to contemplate her words.

“Lass, if this doesn’t show you how normal you truly are, I don’t know what will. Honestly, I’ve always been worried about you, you know that. I used to think that maybe there was something out of line with your alpha, but know I just realise how special you truly are. You are merely an alpha that cares so deeply it is almost all consuming, but that will get better with time. It is also the reason you aren’t attracted to omegas in the same way as other alphas. It ultimately makes you a great protector of all, but it also means there are only a handful of omegas that would be suited to you. Could you imagine if you felt to this degree with every omega you come across?” Regina groaned at the thought.

“I don’t think I could physically survive like that. I’ve only been up a few hours and I already feel like I need to take another cold shower.” Granny laughed out loud.

“Oh lass, I promise, you it will calm down over time and as soon as you mate it will settle permanently.” Regina didn’t know what to make of that.

“You mean I won’t feel this way anymore?”

“Oh no, but you’ll have a lot more control over where and when you do.” Regina hummed quietly in response before her good mood slipped again.

“Now what lass?” Regina twiddled her fingers feeling like a silly adolescent.

“What if, I mean, what if she doesn’t want me. I mean all of me. It’s one thing getting dragged along by pheromones and losing control to the beast, but what about when she sees who I truly am. I could end up pairing with someone who comes to loathe me. I don’t think I could stand seeing desire one moment and disgust the next.” Granny shot to her feet and crouched in front of the younger alpha.

“Now you listen to me Regina Mills. There is nothing wrong with you, nothing at all. No-one here has ever seen a difference and you know why? Hmm?” Regina looked up with watery eyes, unable to respond. “It’s because you are one of us, simply and completely. If you feel this strongly for this omega there is no way she doesn’t feel the same way and I guarantee you, she will only she the beauty you are. Hmm?” Granny patted the brunette’s knee eliciting a small nod of acceptance. “Good, now pull yourself together as I believe you have some convincing to do.” Regina quickly stood, sniffed and straightened her suit. She’d gone for the one she felt most powerful in. It was a simple black, figure hugging three piece with a white collar and stripes along the lapels. Donned with her suit and power cleavage, she felt as ready as she could be as she watched her favourite rabble wander over.

Aside from Gold, who was an alpha, but now an elder within the pack, only Granny, Killian and Regina were alphas and they were all present now. Ruby was the Beta representative, Mary Margaret the Gamma and Belle the Omega. All of whom had now taken their seats.

“Welcome everyone and thank you for coming at this short notice.” Granny began as Regina busied herself by pouring everyone a traditional tea. Normally, it would be a Gamma’s job or an Omega’s, if a pack had any, that would serve at a meeting, but as per the packs ethos and their need to show they all cared and served, one of the alphas usually took it upon them to serve.

“I’m sure you are all aware by now that a few days ago a lone, injured omega wandered into our territory…”

“An omega you say?” Killian’s interest suddenly peaked. It was clear only certain facts had travelled, or maybe they’d thought wisely about merely not informing Killian of that little tit-bit.  Regina did her best to suppress a growl, but was thrown off when one erupted from Granny’s throat instead.

“Do not interrupt me boy!” Killian swallowed, knowing Granny always meant it when she called him boy as appose to lad. “As I was saying, it is not fair to share her story, but suffice it to say she is alone, vulnerable and in need of a home. Regina has gotten to know her a bit and has a proposal.” Regina did not miss the narrowing of Killian’s eyes as his attention turned to her, or the harsh fire that sat just below. She cleared her throat, refusing to take the bait. Right now, securing Emma’s safety was all that mattered to her.

“Her name is Emma Swan; she’s not had a home or family since she was a juvenile. She came to our attention after being attacked by whom I deduced was Rufio based on her description. Of all the wolves in Maine he is probably one of the most recognisable, though I can’t be one hundred per cent certain. This isn’t overly important at the moment, but we will need to re-evaluate our defences as a priority, just in case. What Emma is, is a lone omega, one that stands out like a saw thumb due to being an arctic. I don’t feel that in all good conscience we can literally throw her back out to the wolves. So, I propose that we place her under our protection for the time being.” She looked around at everyone’s faces. Generally everyone looked positive in their contemplations, but no-one spoke.

“Belle, what do you think of having another Omega around?” Queried Granny.

“I,well… I think I’d like it. I mean, I’m mated to Graham, so there won’t be any friction between us. It could even be nice having another omega around.” Granny nodded appreciating her sentiment.

“So I suppose it may be easier to ask whether or not there are any objections.”

“I can certainly say I have no objections,” offered Killian as he preened his collar.  Regina clenched her teeth to supress a growl. There was no way she could show any hint at wanting to claim the omega, it may not be what Emma wants and she certainly did not want to suffer the humiliation if that were true.

“Ooo, I’ve an idea.” Belle was bouncing  with whatever revelation had just pinged in her head. “Let’s have a party tonight to welcome her to the pack.

“Woah! Hang on a minute,” cautioned Regina. “She’s been through a lot; I think that would be far too overwhelming.”

“Not to mention she is not joining the pack, certainly not yet at least,” added Ruby quickly.

“Hmm, what about a barbeque, it’s a nice sunny day, not too hot, not too cold. It can be relaxed and introductions can be leisurely.”

“That’s actually not a bad idea Mary Margaret. Who knew you were capable?” Regina sassed with a smirk.

“I have… ideas, on occasion, thank you.”

“Well, I think that’s settled then. We all have jobs to get to, I suggest we wrap up.” As Granny dismissed them all, Regina began to tidy away the cups just as Granny placed a soft hand on her shoulder. “I’ll get these lass, go to work. This is likely to be a very trying and tiring day for you.” With a little reciprocating squeeze of thanks on the older woman’s hand and a pointed look, Regina left to tackle the day.

Regina groaned as she massaged her temples after a very intense meeting with the local newspaper editor, Sidney Glass. Apparently, Tweedledum and Tweedledee, Storybrooke’s young trouble makers, had reported finding an unusual amount of blood and carcasses in the woods of late and Sidney had been to investigate. Turns out they’d been right. Ordinarily, the townsfolk knew not to travel as far as the stream that ran through the middle of the woods, for the woods beyond were deemed to wild and dangerous. In reality, it marked the end of the town’s and pack’s purview and the start of outlaw territory. There’d been peace for close to ten years now, and it was clear now that their pack had become too complacent and their border checks apparently too half-hearted.  They obviously didn’t venture out anywhere near far enough. Sidney had done his due diligence as usual and provided ample photographic evidence. There were a vast amount of carcasses left along the banks of the river, on both sides; this had to be a message of sorts. It wasn’t uncommon to find the odd carcass, but these had definitely been purposefully planted. In all fairness to Sidney, he was thorough, and he’d bought it to her attention in order to add her statement on behalf of the town to his article. At least she could tell him they’d investigate and deal with it.

She’d not long received a call from Victor confirming Emma was ready to leave.  She said she’d be there in around an hour and just had a few things to wrap up. She’d already sent Ruby and Graham to do a thorough check of their borders so they had a better idea of what was going on. She figured she could just get their report at the barbeque as she shuffled through making sure there was nothing urgent she needed to do. There may well have been, but all she could think now was getting out of her office and to Emma. Screw it; she locked all the papers in her to do draw. It was only two in the afternoon, but she couldn’t wait any longer, it wasn’t as though her secretary would be averse to going home now anyway.

Regina tentatively opened the door to Emma’s room. As soon as her face settled on that of the blonde their smiles instantly matched each other’s in radiance. Emma immediately stood and embraced Regina, wrapping her arms around her waist and snuggling her face into her neck. Regina in turn, protectively cocooned her. She immediately felt her alpha climb to the surface, took a deep breath and stepped back, but held the younger woman’s hands, ensuring she knew she was wanted. Regina however, had made the decision she was not going to be ruled by the alpha. She wanted to get the know Emma first, all aspects of her and, in turn, wanted Emma to want the whole of her.

“Please can we get out of here? This room is literally all I know of Storybrooke.” Regina smirked.

“Of course we can, but first, sit… please.” Emma sighed restlessly as Regina guided her to the bed and they both sat down. Emma instantly pulled Regina to her locking their lips in a passionate, needy kiss. With a quick moan Regina pulled back, desperately fighting the urge to deepen it instead. Emma looked confused, but at least she didn’t look to hurt. Regina took her by the hands and planted a chaste kiss on them. “Not now, not like this. Look Emma, I want both of us to use as much self-control as we can, at least for a while. I want to know all of you before we commit to anything. Does that sound okay with you?” Emma fidgeted for a while and Regina began to feel apprehensive, perhaps Emma didn’t want anything more than to sate her immediate appetite, perhaps she’d read this all wrong.

“I’ll be honest, it’s not what I expect of an alpha who wants me, but I guess that’s a part of what makes you special. I want to know you too Regina, more than anything I’ve ever desired before and if I have to wait a while, I will do my best, though I’ve never known my omega to be so determined before.” Regina couldn’t resist a bright, carefree laugh, which Emma thought was the most beautiful thing she’d ever heard. She couldn’t help her own smile, but also shook her head not quite understanding what had tickled the brunette so much, which Regina picked up on.

“Oh, it’s silly really, I just know exactly what you mean. I didn’t even realise my alpha had the capacity to feel what it does when I’m around you.” She lowered her head in contemplation. Emma became mildly concerned at the drastic change in demeanour.

“Hey, what is it?” She said whilst lifting her chin, wanting to look into her eyes.

“I just, I don’t want to ever lose control around you Emma. I’d never want to hurt you, even though it would never be on purpose.” It unnerved her, being this open, but she knew she had no choice. How pathetic was her alpha?

“Hey, I don’t know why or how yet, but I already trust you more than I have anyone since my mother. Let’s just get to know each other better, shall we, I think I really like that idea.” Regina’s grin returned along with a frantic nod.

“Mmm, talking about getting to know people, the vote was unanimous; you will come under the protection of the pack for now.” Emma visibly displayed relief at this. She knew it wasn’t her home and possibly never would be, but it meant she had a place in the world for now and at least for a short while, if nothing else. “There’s also a barbeque at the mansion tonight. The whole pack will be there and they want to meet you.” Noticing the slightly hesitant look in green eyes, Regina cupped her face to try and reassure her. “Hey, it’s really, really relaxed. People are just going to come and go, it will be very informal. You can just have some food and leave, or if you really don’t want to go at all, you won’t have too. It’s entirely up to you, no pressure.”

“Will you be with me?”

“Always!” Regina instantly threw back, not really thinking that retort through. Both she and Emma backed away, wide-eyed. “I… I mean, I will stay with you yes, of course I will.” Emma smiled and nodded she would be happy with that.

“On another note, I suggest we go shopping and get you a few things. I hope I’m not being too presumptuous, I assumed after what you told me that you only really have what you are standing in.” Emma tried not to look embarrassed, but it was not escaping Regina.

“I don’t have anything, not even money. If I stay here I will need to get a job.”

“Let’s not worry about that right now, okay?” Emma instantly looked uncertain.

“What? What is it?” Regina felt a slight wave of distress emanating from the blonde.

“If we were together, would I not be allowed to work?” Now it was Regina’s turn to feel distressed.

“What! Emma no, that’s not what I meant, I promise. I literally meant for now, as in at least a few days.” She tucked a loose strand of hair behind the omega’s ear. “You’ve been through so much and now your life is potentially going to change massively. I just don’t want you overwhelmed that’s all and, honestly, there’s no rush.”  Emma relaxed at this news.

“Well, I want to pay you back with my first pay check then, okay?” Regina nuzzled her face into the blonde’s neck, relief flooding her system at the blonde’s understanding.

“How about we just take it one day at a time for now, deal?” Emma held out her pinkie finger. Regina stared at it as though it were an alien artefact. Emma rolled her eyes and grabbed Regina’s hand, locking their pinkies together.

“Seriously!” Emma loved Regina’s cheeky, accompanying raised eyebrow.

“I’m being serious, and you have to say it.”

“Say what?”

“Deal!” Regina rolled her eyes, Emma immediately realised this was something she probably did a lot.

“Miss Swan, our pups don’t even do this.”

“Well I do.” Emma said raising their joined fingers to eye level. “Say it… say it, or I will be forced to kiss you.” The raised eyebrow returned.

“Are you now using my lust for you against me?”

“Is it working?”

“Deal!” Regina quickly threw out, offering the blonde a snappy chaste kiss before rising and motioning for Emma to follow her. Emma couldn’t resist a victorious smirk as she followed the brunette out, though that quickly collapsed to a low moan as she could do little else but focus on that swaying ass in front of her. She was sure Regina was exaggerating her sway. Maybe she wasn’t that victorious after all.

Emma lay on her new bed, in her new room that was in her new house in a mansion of all places.  Whilst she understood that technically Regina owned this house, it was very much pack headquarters. Regina had explained there would need to be exceptional circumstances under which a pack member would not have the right just to walk in, bedrooms being the exception. It turned out that granny also lived in the mansion, though she was presently out shopping for the barbeque. Ruby and August also lived there. They were newly mated and saving up for their first house together, it appeared most newly mated did this and they were still very much still in the newly mated phase. She’d left them to have some ‘alone time’ whilst she’d cleaned the house with Regina and prepared the garden for the barbeque. She had offered to help, even though they all insisted she unwound and relaxed and took some time to adjust and mentally prepare herself for this evening, which she was now doing.

She moved over to the window and peered out. It really was a perfect day for a barbeque. The air was clear, the sky blue and the garden, very impressive. She watched as Regina wiped over the barbeque, ensuring it was ready. It was a very large garden with high fences that backed onto the woodland. She assumed that was so they could all wolf out with no care and go for a run if the compulsion overtook. It felt safe, not quite like home yet, it probably wouldn’t for a long while, that was if she decided to stay anyway. She’d never really had a home like this before. She and her mother had been lone wolves for as long as she could remember. They moved from town to town and her mother procured just enough money for them to rent a room somewhere and buy food, she’d never been able to make friends or settle down, that’s what scared her. If it wasn’t for Regina, she’d have thanked them and moved on by now. A small part of her, the part that feared rejection, still wanted to run and not be beholden to anyone, reliant on anyone, or even worse, dependent upon.  Her worry must have been radiating from her as the next thing she knew, Regina stopped what she was doing and turned to look at her with a furrowed brow.

Emma waved sheepishly as though she’d been caught leering or something. That was the last thing she needed to think about though, all she could think of now was her wanton need to ravish the brunette that was now smiling and waving back. ‘Damn’, she thought, it really only took that for my pheromones to shoot of like a horny teenager. It was clear Regina was picking them up now as well as she seemed to relax and smirk. Emma threw herself back onto the bed, not needing to deal with this right now, not after their conversation earlier. There was no way she wanted to come across as weak. Omega or not, she was far from weak and she refused to give in. That was something she would want to establish in their relationship, if they were to have one. There was no way she was going to be a little housewife omega, not that she thought Regina would want her to be. Her initial impressions found the alpha to be unique in many ways and respectful too, that was a very rare quality, though she wasn’t going to just forget she was an alpha either. The more she thought about it, the more grateful she was Regina had suggested they get to know one another first.

Regina had knocked on her door not long prior, confirming Granny had returned and that she should meet her before everyone else arrived. Emma immediately picked up from Regina that this woman was to be respected. Of course, all pack leaders were to be respected, but the impression she got from Regina was that it was a fond and deserved respectfulness, rather than a fearful one.

It didn’t surprise her in the least that she was nervous. She had gone from having no-one to an entire pack and she was about the meet the matriarch that had made all this possible. Sensing her nervousness, Regina took her by the hand.

“I promise you’ll like her. Don’t get me wrong, she can be tough when she needs to be. I mean, stay away from her when she has a crossbow, but she is the rock of this pack and we’d be nothing without her.” Regina tugged on her wrist and ushered her on.

‘Way to make me less tense’, Emma thought as she followed Regina’s lead, though she knew the real reason Regina had said that, she realised it was Regina’s way of saying that this woman meant an awful lot to her.

“Granny!” Regina beamed as she moved Emma to her side and she instantly caught the glow in Granny’s eyes towards Regina. “I would like to introduce you to Emma Swan.”

“Finally, in the flesh.” Granny pulled Emma into a warm embrace. It was odd, although she knew she was called Granny, she really wasn’t expecting the wolf to be quite that old and to still be head of the pack, she thought it would be far more prudent for Regina or one of the other alphas to be leader by now. Before she could dwell any more on the issue, granny pushed her back. “Let me get a good look at you.” She spun Emma and picked up her hands appraising every inch of them. “Well, you seem a good specimen and very beautiful” she added with a small wink, causing the blonde to blush. “You’d make some gorgeous little pups, that’s for sure.”

“Granny!” Regina looked mortified, not quite believing Granny would say such a thing, especially in front of someone she’d just met.

“What! It’s true and your little pups, just imagine; they’d be so adorable.”

“Alright Granny, thank you for that.” Regina retorted, pulling Emma behind her.

“Oh relax, I can smell you both, let’s at least be realistic here. There is nothing to be ashamed of.”

“I’m not ashamed!” Regina defended, pulling Emma closer without really realising. Granny just laughed.

“Oh this is going to be fun.  Come on kids, help me prepare the meat.” Granny turned to begin separating the meat.  “I think we ought to have Killian man the barbeque with August tonight, try and keep his nostrils full and occupied.” Granny muttered as she prepped.

“Hmm?” Asked Regina as she finished drying the freshly washed kebab skewers.

“Oh nothing, nothing – pass me that knife, I’ll hack this steak up a bit.

It wasn’t long before the others began to arrive. Emma had already been introduced to Gold and Gepetto, they were now both nursing a bottle of whisky whilst sitting on chairs in the shade. Emma smiled, it was exactly how she imagined elders would be. She’d also learnt that Gepetto was August’s father. Gold was a scraggly old mutt apparently, she couldn’t wait to see him wolf out. For some reason she couldn’t get Tramp from Lady and the Tramp out of her head when she tried to imagine it.

Next to arrive had been David with Mary Margaret.  David was a Beta and Mary Margaret a Gamma. They were mates and bought their pup Neal with them. He was seven years old and adorable, he’d instantly sought out Alexandra who was Ashley and Thomas’ little one. They were both Gamma’s and Ashley was pregnant with their second pup.

The single wolves in the pack she’d met so far were Kathryn, Leroy and Hood, all of which were Gamma’s, then there was Mulan, Archie and Victor, the beta’s. None of these had shown any indication of pairing up this far, though apparently Hood and Victor often hooked up with Kathryn.

The evening was off to an excellent start and Emma couldn’t believe how content she felt amongst this new group. It wasn’t long before she felt like she had known some of them forever, especially Ruby, August, David and Mary Margaret, although the latter was a bit sickly sweet for her liking.

She’d sidled over to Belle, apparently she was the omega who had been mated to Graham. She had to admit they made for a handsome couple. She’d only met a few omegas, but never in pack setting and couldn’t help but wonder what Belle did, or was expected to do.

“Hi, I’m Emma.” This was the first time she’d had the courage to break away from Regina who was now talking to Ruby and Graham about the border or something. She didn’t want to feel as though she was over stepping her mark, considering she wasn’t actually a member of the pack, so she had decided to approach the omega. Belle offered her a sweet, lopsided grin.

“Belle,” she returned with an extension of her hand. “It’s so good to meet you, I heard about what happened, I’m so sorry.” Emma’s eyes bugged out.

“Regina told you?” Belle flinched a bit, not quite expecting this level of fire from an omega.

“No, no I’m sorry. I don’t really know what you are referring to. I mean, everyone knows that Ruby and Graham found you after you’d been attacked. That was all, I…”

“Shit, I’m sorry Belle I didn’t mean to snap, I just panicked. I’m not used to having friends or having anyone know anything about me.” Emma chanced a glance at Regina. It was clear she was alerted to Emma’s feelings which sent a warm wave through her. Regina nodded, Emma knew instantly she was checking she was alright. Emma nodded back and raised her beer, adding a smile to reassure, before turning back to Belle “Again, sorry, I just, I don’t really know.”

“It’s fine Emma, honestly. I can’t imagine how nervous you must feel, meeting all these new people for the first time.”

“Yeah, but honestly, it’s not been as bad as I thought. This is a very wonderful pack indeed.” She took a swig of her beer, illiciting a giggle from Belle. “What?” Belle tried to shake herself out of it.

“Nothing, it’s nothing honestly, you just… I guess… I’ve never really met an omega like you before.”

“Oh, what do you mean?” Emma now felt very insecure.

“It’s not a bad thing, it’s just you’ve an innate ability to stand up for yourself. I like it, I’m kind of jealous I guess.”

“Oh! Well, I suppose I’ve had little option. What do you mean though? I mean, forgive me, I’ve been on my own for so long and known so few wolves that I’m not really sure how we should all behave. You’re the only omega I’ve really been able to ever speak too.” Belle looked as though she was honoured to hear that as a realisation suddenly hit Emma. “Do you want to stand up for yourself here? Do they make you do things? Force you?” Emma felt bile begin to rise at the thought and Belle looked on intrigued at first, she’d never really met an omega with protective instincts before, certainly not about anyone other than their mate or pup, and she barely knew the blonde.

“Oh no Emma, no, not at all, it is wonderful here, truly.” Belle’s head fell as though she was considering something. Emma prayed she wasn’t hiding a dark secret this pack held, as so far, it seemed too good to be true.

“No, it’s just. I was the daughter of a pack alpha, the number one or leader. He, he was very traditional. My parents taught me to be submissive. They even tried to arrange my mating. They wanted me to marry their alpha number two, but I just couldn’t.  He was vulgar; I would have been his property, I just couldn’t bear the thought, so I ran away. It went against everything I was taught or should have believed in, but I just couldn’t, his scent literally repulsed me.” Belle looked forlorn for a few moments as she gathered her thoughts. “Gold found me one day when I entered Storybrook territory. I was pathetically feeble and weak. I honestly don’t think I’d have survived much longer trying to be a lone wolf. He was incredibly kind. He bought me to Granny and that was that. They welcomed me with open arms.”

“That’s very kind of them, it seems like that’s there thing here, to take in waifs and strays.” Belle giggled.

“You have no idea. However, it was also clear that Gold was totally into me, but he was an honourable old, widowed alpha who was on the change to elder at the time. If he had been only five or ten years younger, I could have seen us winding up together, but it is what it is. Anyway, I am happy with Graham. He’s an honourable man and very kind.”

“What does he expect of you? I mean,” Emma blushed at her spontaneous question. “Now you are together?” Belle smiled, knowing exactly what Emma was eluding too.

“Honestly, nothing. I work at the library – it’s my own project.” Emma made a mental note to enquire more on that later, she loved Belle’s enthusiasm. “We’ve not long bought a house and are hoping to start a family soon. Chores are divided… it’s fine, we both mated knowing what the other wanted and expected and it seems we were compatible…” She trailed off taking a swig of what Emma assumed was a spritzer of sorts.

“That’s wonderful. I mean it, I’m glad for you.”

“Hmm, and when you find your alpha, I’m pretty sure you will be okay too.” Emma’s head shot up at that.

“How do you know I’ll find an alpha?!”

“Oh, I think you already have.” Belle smirked whilst raising her glass towards Regina who was staring inquisitively at the pair and had been for the past few minutes Belle had noticed. Belle sniggered again as Regina nodded in response and tried to clumsily look like she was doing anything else but staring.

The evening had been going fantastically thus far, and Emma was delighted. It wasn’t until she was munching down on her third chicken leg that a foul smell assaulted her senses. Her head shot towards the newcomer and Ruby instantly walked to Emma’s side. Regina had not long gone to the bathroom. Emma tried not to screw her face up too much as a cocky, arrogant renaissance wannabe walked up to her.

“Well love, you must be Emma Swan. It’s so good to finally meet you and I must say, you are a beauty.”  It was clear he was emitting pheromones in an attempt to woo, but honestly, it just made Emma feel nauseous.  Ruby edged a bit closer, understanding that this attraction only went one way.

“And you are?” She tried not to sound too cold, but there was still an edge.

“Killian, Killian Jones.” As he was introducing himself, Regina had emerged from the bathroom and was leaning against the French doors trying desperately to rationalise this as just a meeting, but she really was struggling. The final straw came when she saw Killian step forward and place his hand to her hip as he leaned into whisper something into her ear. Ruby had been watching Regina, she would have stepped in had things become uncomfortable, but she wanted to allow Regina the chance to act first. She breathed a sigh of relief as she saw Regina march forward with daggers in her eyes.

Killian was totally thrown off balance as Regina grabbed him by the shoulder and spun him around. In his disorientation, Regina used the time to step between him and Emma, his stench was fuelling her rage. Emma instantly wrapped her arms around Regina’s waist from behind, in part thankful for the protection, but also in an attempt to comfort. 

“You’re kidding me?” Killian straightened up and brushed himself off, with all the arrogance of an un-noble prince.

“Just stay away from her Killian.” Regina tried to placate the other alpha, hoping to high heavens that he would respect her in this, but he merely chuckled.

“Uh, uh, you’ve not claimed her, that makes her claimable by anyone.” He rebutted.

“That is not the way we work here Killian and you know that, she isn’t claimable at all, unless she wishes to be so.”

“That doesn’t mean I’m not allowed to fight for her.” He pronounced; his intentions clear.

“It is her first time ever meeting any of you; she does not need to be harassed.” Regina was stern. Emma was tempted to say she could fight her own battles, but looking around, and judging by the lack of interference from anyone else, she decided this was likely something the two alphas needed to do. It didn’t hurt that a part of her liked Regina fighting for her anyway. She couldn’t see, but Regina’s eyes flickered between human and wolf as she bored into Killian’s. Killian’s own hackles began to rise.

“And you, YOU, are going to actually fight for her then!?” He said whilst jabbing Regina in the chest as he spoke, causing a growl to erupt from Emma that threw everyone for moment.

“Oh come on Regina, we all know what you are, you really think you are worthy of her? YOU!” He spat, stepping into her space and towering over her. At this point Granny was itching to intervene, but she really wanted Regina so stand her ground here and not cave and shrink in on herself. She stood down as she saw Regina’s eyes begin to glow and a deep growl emanate. More often than not, this would have been enough for the other alpha to stand down, when they were members of the same pack of course, but Granny balled her fists as she realised this wouldn’t be happening tonight.

Killian responded. He two responded likewise and lunged for Regina. Regina instantly turned to push Emma out of the way. When Emma span back round, her heart racing, she noticed a red and brown, blue eyed wolf had now pinned Regina to the ground. He was growling threateningly with his paws on her back, holding her down. Emma went to charge forward, but Ruby held her back. When she looked to Ruby, she noticed the calm in her gaze. Her face shot back to Regina when she heard a scuffle. Before her eyes, Regina wolfed out, transforming into a beautifully, luscious, mostly black, sleek, long haired wolf. She was smaller than Killian and used the transformation to escape his hold. Emma took a deep breath, she was just as stunning in wolf form and very unique, though it slightly unnerved her that she was so small, for an alpha. She looked akin in size to the average beta.

Within moments they were at each other’s necks, rolling around and nipping at each other where they could. It was hard to see exactly what was going on as they both frantically scuffled on as everyone scurried to the side to give them room. After a few moments, the lighter wolf got a grip of Regina’s back leg and she howled in pain. Emma felt sick as she then realised how serious this could be. However, all that did was fuel Regina’s rage, the other alpha momentarily relaxed, possibly thinking he had won.  The black beauty spun around, leaping into the air before pinning the other alpha to the ground. She instantly sat on his lower half, pinning his body down. She trapped his forelegs and bit down on his neck. Killian whimpered under her hold, his back legs frantically trying to get a hold on her. This went on for a few moments before Granny stepped into Regina’s view, whatever soft and kind look she gave her caused her to slowly back off. Killian slowly flipped over and sheepishly rose, but only slightly. His tail was held between his legs and his head and ears were cowed. Regina had won. After a few moments, Regina hobbled inside, still in wolf form as Killian slowly began to transform. Emma watched him transform.  He merely stood up, gave her a pitiful but dismissive look, before retreating to a corner in the garden to lick his wounds. Without a second thought, Emma followed Regina inside.

Chapter Text

When she entered the mansion, Regina was nowhere in sight. Emma’s heart was pounding. She’d had a pounding heart from fear many a time, but this was far more than that.  It almost encompassed everything from fear to excitement.  She’d never had anyone fight like that for her before, not even her mother. They preferred to run. She’d never had two alpha’s fight over her before either, that was an eye opener, though she'd not really been around enough of them together, only ever really met them on their own. The difference in them was stark though. Killian smelt sour and bitter. His affection was mere lust encompassed later with rage at not getting what he wanted. Regina smelt like smoky apples with a hint of something sweet like honey. Her response was also very alpha, but in the protective, rather than the aggressive manner. Emma’s breathing stilled as she considered the situation. Had it just been the three of them, it would likely be that Regina would have fought to one of their deaths, even her own. Emma wasn’t quite sure what to make of that yet. It wasn’t a bad thing necessarily, but it was a daunting thought and one she never wanted realised.

Assuming Regina had now transformed back, Emma headed towards her bedroom.  With the noise that had resumed outside, it was hard to hear whether or not Regina was in there, but she could now smell the older woman, her distress and blood. Taking a deep breath, she knocked. There was no answer, ordinarily she’d take that as a sign to give someone space, but there was no way she was doing so now. Before she could think too much into it, she quickly opened the door. 

Regina was startled from her task. She looked up; tears were streaming her face as she’d clearly been assessing the deep bite wound that circled her thigh. Emma’s heart wept at the sight. She instantly ran to the older woman and crouched before her, assessing the wound.

“It looks deep, is it very painful.” Emma carefully used her hands to check the extent of the damage.

“I’ll live,” Regina dead panned.  It was painful, but she’d had worse. She took in the extent of Emma’s concern as the blonde slowly began to dab the wounds with saline solution.  “I… I’m sorry,” Regina whispered, now looking defeated. It was then that Emma deciphered what she was sensing. Regina was ashamed.

“Hey! What on earth are you sorry for? You were…”

“No Emma! I acted like an uncontrollable alpha. I know I technically haven't claimed you, so all I really did was take an option away from you. I didn’t even allow you a choice; I shut both you and Killian down.”

“Woah! Hang on, you took nothing away, trust me.” She contemplated the brunette’s words. “Tell me, why did you do that?” Regina huffed.

“I, I was jealous I guess, I didn’t want him anywhere near you.”

“But why?” Regina looked up confused.

“What do you mean?”

“What did you sense from me?”

“I’m not really sure, a mixture of things. Irritation, anger, fear. I just, I really didn’t like it... I’m sorry.”

“Right, so you just did what your instincts told you and they were right Regina, they were right. I couldn’t stand that alpha and you knew it.” They both sat mulling over one another’s words as Emma continued to gently dab.

“Hmm, I thought that as an omega you would at least find him mildly appealing?” Emma laughed, causing Regina to snigger too.

“No… he…” She stopped what she was doing and looked in the brunette’s eyes. “He repulsed me if I’m honest.” Regina’s smile was now accompanied with a wave of relief that warmed Emma’s soul. “I think most omega’s find the majority of alpha’s appealing, in one way or another, but not me. To be honest, you are the only one I’ve ever been attracted too in that sense, and to say attracted is a massive understatement.” Regina positively purred at that before wincing as Emma pressed slightly harder into a deep tooth mark.

“Sorry.”

“It’s fine.”

Both women were so enraptured in their conversation that they hadn’t heard the kafuffle outside. After Emma had left, the gossip mill erupted.

“That was so hot,” purred Belle into Graham’s ear “Would you defend me like that?”

“You’re damn right I would,” he said pulling her in close to nuzzle her neck.

Across the garden, Granny had wandered over to Killian with Ruby. “How are you Killian?” Granny briskly asked whilst subtly scanning him for any serious injuries. Whilst Regina had pinned him by the neck, she’d done so perfectly, as to barely nip the skin. At the most he’d have minor scuffs and bruises.

“Oh I’m fine, nothing like being humiliated by a tiny mutt.” With that said, Granny’s teeth barred, she then growled and used her alpha strength to fling the now whimpering mess into the fence.

“You are on thin ice boy. Not only do you never bite down on a pack member, for any reason beyond treachery, but you never, ever disrespect one of us. Especially considering everything she has done for us all over the years. By now everyone had gathered round to watch the dressing down. Some looked mildly amused, whilst others partly hurt or betrayed. Killian pulled himself off the ground and turned to face everyone.

“I’m sorry,” he finally sighed. “I just, I’ve never really been challenged like that before and I got a bit carried away.” He looked genuinely humbled. As much as he struggled with his place in the pack on occasion, it didn’t mean he wouldn’t die for anyone of them, even Regina.

“Hmm, it’s not our forgiveness you need though is it?”

“Will this affect my position in the pack?”

“That’s up to Regina.” Granny softly added before leaving to allow him some space.

“That was a hefty bite, perhaps we should go check on her.” Asked Ruby, who’d run to Granny’s side to offer her support, much like everyone else.

“No, let’s leave them too it. I’m sure Emma will come and find us if she is worried.”

It was a lot later that night when Granny decided to pop her head around Regina’s door. She had planned to take a closer look, but watching her sleep whilst spooning Emma melted her heart. She noticed her injured leg, freshly bandaged and took her peaceful look as a good sign. Unable to stop smiling she ventured closer and gently checked her number one’s forehead, but there was no sign of a fever. She smiled again before throwing the blanket over them, as it had now chilled, and turned in for the night.

Emma and Regina were the first up on Saturday, it wasn’t surprising as their night had been cut short and exhaustion took hold of them fairly early.

“So, do you normally cook for the entire house?” Emma settled down with a coffee watching Regina move around, thankfully, with relative ease. The bites were sharp and clean and she insisted it was only a bit sore. The entire pack was also clean and up-to-date with all their shots.

“Not always, generally speaking, whoever is up first does, so yes, I suppose it is usually me, Saturdays, not so much though.”

“What does normally happen on a Saturday, or the weekend for that matter. I’m assuming you don’t 'Mayor' on the weekends.” Regina let out a wicked laugh and turned a sultry eye to her observer.

“No, I rarely put on that skin on the weekends, but sometimes needs must. I tend to don a hairier one on the weekends, we all do, its pack time.” Emma walked up to Regina, sliding her hands around her waist, teasing her ear.

“I like you in this skin.” Emma toyed with the belt loops on the brunette’s black skinny jeans. “Your arse looks incredible.” Regina smirked, elbowing her gently.

“Stop it or we risk ravaging each other right here.”

“Would that be so bad?” Regina almost couldn’t resist Emma’s raised eyebrow taunt. She took a deep, centring breath.

“It would, the food would spoil one way or another, and I guarantee you that the ever-strengthening smell from this fry-up will have paws pounding in here in 3… 2...” Right on queue the sound of people emerging from their rooms assaulted their peace.

“Wow, they really are that predictable.”

“Hmm, morning… I can’t tell you how much this is needed.” Ruby said whilst stretching with a ridiculous amount of suppleness.

“Hmm, well eat up fast. You and I are going to run the border again.”

“Oh! Can I come!”  Emma was almost giddy at the prospect.

“Absolutely not!” Regina’s tone didn’t even allow for further question.

“Oh, what is that, an order! Is that the way it will be!” Emma didn’t quite mean the level of bile that accompanied that little outburst, but she was used to being a lone wolf and even then she wasn’t she wasn't the best at following orders.

“What! No! Emma, you are under our protection, that applies to all of us – same rules, we all fall under those protections. Add to that the fact you are an unclaimed omega…? Need I remind you the dangers of travelling to close to this particular border?”

“Okay! Okay, I’m sorry, I get it. I’m just not accustomed to people dictating what I can or cannot do.” She was still clearly a little peeved.

“Look, Emma.” Regina rounded to her front and placed her arms lovingly on her waist. “You are as good as a part this pack right now; we have to work together for the betterment of everyone, as a whole, and pack security is currently my responsibility. Whatever may or may not happen between us, I promise to always try and remain rational with any decisions I have to make and not treat you differently, but right now, this is the rational thing to do. I just can’t risk it, especially as we don’t know what’s going on yet. If you do end up staying, who knows what will happen yet, you can explore how better you fit in at a later date, but that time is not right now, especially with the current unknown threats looming… okay?” Emma softened at her words. She knew that her going could only jeopardise the scout at this time.

“Fine, I do understand, honestly.” She added a small shy smile to which Regina sighed and kissed her on the head. “So what should I do today then?”

“Well, this morning, Killian, Ruby and I will be out on a scout. The rest of the pack will meet in the clearing, not far from the house. The elders usually teach the pups a thing or two and the others tend to hunt and just enjoy spending the time together.  The afternoon is free. I tend to go for a run, though if I went today it would probably be more of an amble.” She shrugged not completely committing to that idea.

“I would love to go ambling with you.” Emma added shyly.

“Let’s see how the scout goes, though unless an emergency crops up, I would love to spend some time with you later on. Ambling or otherwise.” 

“Oh dear Lord you guys, get a room already.  Seriously, I don’t know why you don’t just bite her and be done.” Ruby proclaimed with an added smirk.  Emma cleared her throat, not wanting this moment to become awkward for anyone.

“I was wondering if this morning I could sit with the elders and pups, you know, maybe learn something too? Hell, I’m pretty sure the pups probably know more than I do.” Regina resisted the urge to mock her and point out that the pups were literally four and seven years old, but she thought better of it. It broke her heart to realise that Emma probably didn’t have much of a clue about their history and dynamics, if any.

“Of course, they’d welcome you with open arms.” She opted for instead.

Killian squared up to Regina as she and Ruby met him at the woods edge. Both looked stone-faced and unyielding.  Ruby actually sighed and began biting her nails as though she were bored of waiting for the bus. She told herself she would give them two more minutes before intervening, but then her fascination switched to wondering who would blink first.

Killian finally softened and sighed. “Look, I’m sorry okay. I apologise for being all ‘alphary’ over someone I’d just met, I know it’s not our way, but I also didn’t even get a chance, which I don’t think is fair either. That’s what really got my back up.” Regina maintained her hard stare for a moment. “Though, I genuinely really am sorry for biting you. I’ve never lost it like that before, but there is no excuse for that. I really shouldn’t have done that. I can’t even see why I let it go that far, that’s never happened to me before. Ever.” There was a good few more moments of silence.

“Answer me honestly; is there something different about Emma, something more than her just being another Omega?” Killian thought on her question for a moment.

“I don’t know. You know me, I’m… I’m lonely and have never found an Omega I’ve not been attracted too, but her pull was strong, that’s for sure. Whether, it’s something else? I’m not really the best to ask. You on the other hand? I’ve known you for nearly two decades and have never seen you react like that either. Perhaps there is something different about her.”

“And what of Emma now?” She eventually asked after pondering, yet again.

“You won Mills, she’s yours…” He turned his toe and looked up coyly. “You know, I have to admit, you are far stronger than I gave you credit for.”

“You mean for a mutt?” Ruby would be lying if she said she wasn’t enjoying this, just a bit. Killian winced and sighed again.

“And I apologise for that too. That really was uncool. I mean hey, who knows what’s truly in any of our lineages anyway…  if you go back far enough,” he offered with a shrug.

“Okay, enough with all the waffling, it really doesn’t become you. Shall we get on with this then?” Regina offered with a small, appeasing smile. She didn’t hate the man, kind of felt sorry for him in a way. He really was only trying to flirt when she thought about it, albeit he was bit too pushy.

“Finally, yes!” Two head span in unison towards Ruby. “I mean, yeah, great. Let’s go then!” The two wolves followed her lead, transforming themselves before heading out.

Granny was walking with Emma to the clearing. It really wasn’t that far from the mansion house. You could get there after about twenty minutes of walking very slowly, as Granny seemed to be insisting they did. They’d also stayed in human form as they wouldn’t be able to communicate telepathically as Emma hadn’t been initiated into the pack and the pups couldn’t wolf out yet.

August couldn’t join them that day, he was manning his father's shop as their assistant needed the weekend off. Ruby, Graham and David all worked for the police department, along with two regular humans. To be fair to the others, they only requested time off together on special occasions. Usually one, if not two of them worked a weekend shift. Today, Graham was manning the fort.

“Tell me lass, how do you feel? I mean, the last week has been a whirlwind for you and I want to make sure you are okay? It is part of my job as leader of the pack too.” Granny’s eyes were warm and inviting, but she didn’t doubt this woman could turn in an instant, that too was part of the requirement of being a leader, though she was now beginning to question what little education she had.

“Honestly, I feel content. I… I won’t lie to you and say I’m not also a bit apprehensive. I mean, I’ve never been in a pack before…” She realised what she had just said and began to panic. “… I mean…”

“Relax, it’s okay Emma. Yes, you aren’t officially a part of our pack yet, but between you and me, why don’t we use this is a trial period, so we can all get used to one another, that being as much a trial for you as it would be for us. In reality though, as you have no home or family and are under our protection… and staying with us, you are as good a part of us anyway in many ways. But, we won’t do anything you don’t want to okay? There’s no need to rush anything… and I mean anything.” That last word was said with a pointed gaze over her half-moons.

“That’s what Regina said too. It’s odd; I’ve never met an alpha like her before.” She looked down and shuffled her feet a bit. “The ones I’ve met have all been male and are only after one thing. Is it just a male thing?” Granny let out a tremendous laugh.

“Oh no lass, it’s just a Regina thing. My mate was an alpha too and trust me… it was I who did all the ravaging.”

“Oh! That’s brilliant. I love the idea of turning the tide turning somewhat and bypassing expectations. Of barriers being broken down and rules being broken…  So… Regina is odd then?” Granny stopped Emma by placing her hand on her elbow.

“Not odd, but she is special. Do me a favour;  everyone likes a good banter, especially if you are going to go on to mate, but never call her odd…or a mutt for that matter.” Emma merely looked perplexed. Whilst they could also be used as slurs, Granny was right that many used them in friendly banter too.

“Oh, why not? I’m not saying I would, but…” In all fairness, it was a fairly common way to banter between friends, even Emma knew that much, her mother even used to call her, 'my little mutt' on occasion, though in a loving, jest-full way – usually when she’d done something silly.

“Let me tell you something about Regina, everyone knows her story and it’s sometimes mentioned in random conversation, though never really with her. If I don’t tell you now, you may overhear things that could confuse you or cause you to be troubled unnecessarily. Tell me first though, what do you think of her wolf form?” Emma didn’t even need to think on that.

“I think she’s the most striking wolf I’ve ever seen, even down to the scar on her lip. She’s as beautiful in wolf form as she is as a woman and I’ve never seen anyone so gorgeous.” That instantly settled well with Granny, though Emma did feel a bitty silly suddenly feeling compelled to confess that.

“She is a beauty that’s for sure. Tell me though, how many almost midnight blacks have you seen in your travels.” Emma thought for a moment, that was a good point. She’d not seen any whatsoever.

“I guess I haven’t seen any. I’ve never really thought on it, but now you mention it, a part of it probably was that I was in awe of something I’d never seen before… though you don’t see many Arctic’s around here either.” She quickly added to try and lighten the mood.

“No you don’t lass,” granny added with a chuckle, appreciating her attempt. “But we know what you are, don’t we, whilst you are uncommon, you are not unheard of. Regina was born into a clan that was very ‘pure’, or liked to think it was. They even preferred to live mostly in wolf form – to the extent they had dens.”  She sniffed deeply, contemplating her wording. “Regina was the smaller one of twins; very much the runt apparently. Her parents were two Mongolian wolves with flecks of pretty much every colour adorning their coats. Her twin was exactly what you would expect, merely a miniature version of them. Now, had Regina been born of a normal, wild wolf, one would have assumed there were two different fathers, but being werewolves and strictly mating in human form, there was no doubt as to who the father was. She was seen as genetic throwback, a mutt. Her father knew for a fact she was his was his and that was the sole thing that kept her alive, but he was a gamma, weak. His mate was the pack leader and ruled with an iron fist.” Emma was listening intently, not liking where this story was going. Granny’s voice began to break as she continued.

“When she wolfed out for the first time with her brother, it caused a huge commotion. From that day on her mother treated her awfully. She used to use her as bait for the other pups to practice hunting on and never allowed her to play with them or even sleep in the den, insisting she slept outside, even in the rain. ‘If she couldn’t survive then she deserved the death that came to her,’ was I believe the philosophy, they held.” Granny had to stop for a moment to compose herself. She couldn’t even look at Emma.

“When she was old and strong enough, she ran away.” Granny and Emma both now had a tear rolling from their eyes. “Don’t worry though,” said Granny with a sniff as she patted her arm, “it gets better. She was twelve when she wandered into our territory, a wild, but terrified pup. It took me ages to gain her trust. I did so by first bringing her food. For about three weeks I took her a carcass and left it outside of a little bush she was using as a den.  After a while I left her a blanket, and one day she decided to come out of her hiding place. On the first occasion she never spoke, but insisted I share the catch with her. It melted my heart.  Eventually, after around two, maybe even three months, she trusted me enough to transform. The rest is history, she became like a daughter to me and the pack welcomed her with open arms. I won’t lie and say that there weren’t a few that thought her ‘odd’ as you say, but they slowly learned to love and trust her too. It didn’t help that she was a bit feral at first, it was unnerving for some of the other pups, but then she’d never learnt to play or be a part of a group either. Her wolf instinct by then was telling her that everyone was out to hurt her.  I must say, we were surprised when she presented as an alpha, though when I thought about it, it seemed logical. She was a fighter that was for sure. She has grown into one of the best alpha’s I’ve ever known. I just wish she could see that too.” Emma smiled at the prospect of being the one to show her just how special she was. She couldn’t imagine Regina being feral in the slightest; she was one of the most put together women she’d ever met.

“There is one thing I don’t understand though, what is so bad about her colouring?”

“Nothing really, but there hasn’t been a pure black breed in these parts for centuries, you’d have to go overseas for that. In these parts it is more of a genetic anomaly, but it hints at cross-breeding with wild wolves. The reality is, all lineages will most certainly have such crossings the further back you go, because we descended from wild breeds of dog anyway. But it was too obvious in Regina, too much of a blemish for the clan she was born into.”

“That’s why she doesn’t like being called a mutt…” Emma was pensive for a few moments. “I hate what we can be capable of doing to one another. I hated never having a pack, but at least I had a mother who loved me… but as you said, it all worked out in the end.” Emma sniffed, determined to try and look on the bright-side.

“Hmm, and I think this is only the beginning lass.” Granny placed her arm over Emma’s shoulder protectively and planted a quick kiss on her forehead. “Come on, let’s join the others.”

Regina, Killian and Ruby neared the river border.  It stank, stank of decaying flesh and open wounds. But there was something else too.

'Outlaw clan!' Regina telepathically declared as she sniffed the air.

'No doubt.' Said Killian as he sidled close and mirrored her action.

'What does this mean?' Asked Ruby as she walked the river edge. 'What can they possibly be wanting to tell us? That they’re unhappy? Want war again?'

'You patrolled the woods yesterday. I understand this has been happening for several weeks now. Did you see anything else? Anything closer? I mean, as it stands now they are only dipping their toes in our territory.'

'No, there was nothing else of note.  Graham and I were quite thorough.'   A sudden crack caused all three to raise hackles and spin on their haunches.  Regina quickly took the lead and emitted a low growl whilst edging closer to the sound, though a familiar smell calmed her somewhat.

Stepping from the undergrowth was an old, scraggy, light brown alpha wolf, one whom age was now taking a toll, not unlike Gold. It closed in on Regina before dropping its head. After a quick look around and heads up to her pack, Regina transformed into mayor mode, equip with blazer and heals.  You could see Ruby’s eye roll, even in wolf form. The intruding beast did like-wise, transforming into a thin, blonde woman, nearing the age of seventy.

“Mal, long time no see. I hope the woods keep you well?”

“Regina, how is it you seem to never age, you look fabulous darling.”

“And you look… like you’ve had it rough of late.” Mal sighed. Not only did she look rough, but she also looked somewhat bruised and battered, though the wounds appeared to be at least a few days, if not around a week old. They also looked more fist induced than teeth.

“I… I…” Before she could say anything else, the old alpha dropped to the ground. Regina instantly knelt beside her as she others kept vigil.

Mr Gold was surprisingly animate in his story telling.  It hadn’t slipped Emma’s mind that he was probably telling this particular story with her in mind. She was sure the others must have heard it time and time again.

“So, around twelve thousand years ago, following the cataclysmic event that was the Younger Dryas, from beneath the depths of our world, our first known ancestors emerged. Bigger than wild wolves, faster…  stronger. It is said a group of angelic like beings came to them from beyond the seas and offered them the chance to rebuild civilisation in their area and the means to do so. In our case, it meant the ability to change, to shift between their form and ours. It was our ancestors that rebuilt our local areas. “ Regardless as to how many times the pups had heard this story they were as enraptured as Emma.

“It was said to have taken several thousand years, and much breeding later, for the mixture of wolf and human traits in us began to divide us into definitive groups. At first, it was the stronger and the weaker, the alphas and omegas that became distinguishable in a new way. Over time the beta’s – who was basically everyone else – also divided into beta’s and gamma’s. As time went on these differences caused disputes and groups began to divide, with smaller factions being found by those who wanted to choose their own path and create their own pack, which eventually leads us to today.”

“So how many packs are there in, say, North America at the moment?” Gold chuckled.

“The true number can never be known, but ultimately there is one core pack for every state. They are the recognised representatives of their area – apart from Utah and Minnesota, their packs have recently died out or broken up beyond sustainability.”

“How do you know this?”

“Every year, three representatives of every pack meet for the annual Lykos. A meeting of all the pack leaders to ensure that harmony is ultimately kept across the country. Our survival has long dependent on packs ultimately working together for the good of all.  Our anonymity and peaceful coexistence with man is paramount.”

“How did I not now about this, about any of this? Why would my mother not tell me any of this?”

“That I can’t answer. I understand she was a lone wolf and a lone wolf with a cub at that. How she became such may very well explain what she chose to tell you or not.  Of course, there is also the chance that she herself did not know. All the lone wolves I’ve met tend to fall into one of three camps. There’s bound to be the exception, but I’ve never really met one.  The first is because they were rejected or expelled from their pack for one reason or another. The second being that they left voluntarily because they were unhappy about something or refused to submit, and the third being a wolf that got accidently left behind or abandoned at birth. Rare, but it can happen. Perhaps the mother had been far from their town when they had given birth and there were no known relatives to contact when complications arose.  That’s the downside to not getting married in human form and only claiming a mate, or simply being careless with someone. Hopefully nothing more sinister happens. Having a bond only known to your pack is a dangerous thing to do and outlawed by most reasonable packs. If the mother died, the child, who'd then be in the system, could easily wind up wolfing out for the first time and getting lost, and this occurs on their 8^th birthday, so they’d be very young. That is often how a wandering, lone wolf with no knowledge of who they are is born. One too ashamed to return to their old life, but having no clue what as to what to do, even what they are.”

Emma had a tear rolling down her cheek. She’d asked her mother about her family in the past, she’d only ever confirmed that she didn’t have one, never had had one.  Emma had thought on occasion that she had fallen out with them and completely removed them from her life. This possibility had never even occurred to her before. With what she had learnt from Granny prior, she was becoming more and more intrigued by pack dynamics.

“Your pack likes to take in strays from what I understand. Is that normal?”  Gold smiled. If only she knew the half of it. Perhaps one day she would.

“I would also say that there are three main types of packs. The ones who like to call themselves purebloods. They believe their lineage to be traceable to its original, founding ancestors. Much like the one Regina left. They rarely let a new wolf in, but when they do that wolf has to be of an acceptable lineage and a deal is usually struck to trade one of their young. That way they keep the gene-pool healthy too. They have their own meetings to make such trades and it’s usually a trade between other pureblood packs. A wolf’s individual role within the pack is often clearly defined with little room to deviate. It’s not everyone’s cup of, tea, but there are also those that insist on it. Everyone else is seen as inferior to them. Then you’ve the packs who tend to keep more to themselves, but aren’t completely averse to allowing in the odd stray, they tend to be willing when their pack is in danger of dwindling to allow anyone in. They are generally less rigid all around. Then, finally, you have packs like ours. We are quite an old pack now, but only Granny and I have true connections dating back hundreds of years. It doesn’t bother us in the slightest though. We find variety and a more relaxed nature sees us well, though it does have its disadvantages too.”

“Oh?” Emma shuffled where she sat, not remembering the last time she’d been so keen to learn – anything really. She’d left school when she wolfed out and she her mother began their travelling lifestyle. Lord knows what the world thought had happened to them, they'd probably just been added to the thousands of missing in the statistics each year. She made a mental note to check up on that later, in case it caused problems going forward. The last thing she wanting was for her new friends to be accused of anything sinister.

“Well sure, just think about it.” Emma’s mind had wandered so far, she really did have to think about it. “Since I became an elder alone, not long after we’d taken in Belle, we’ve taken in four new wolves for one reason or another.” He looked around the camp. “Victor, Hood and Ashley, and potentially you now too. Ashley and my Thomas had met at one of the Lykos. It didn’t take them long to fall in love. That’s how she came to join us.”

“Thomas is your son?” Gold grinned.

“Yes, and I am very proud of him.”

“Wait! I’ve just realised I don’t have a clue how you are all related, if you are at all that is.”

“Can I, can I?” Neal shot his hand up. Alexandra was four years old now, whereas Neal was nearing the age he’d wolf out for the first time.  Gold chuckled.

“Go on then my boy, let’s see if you can remember it all.” The confident little boy stood and straightened his shirt.

“Listen up! Katherine and Mulan are sisters, their mother died when I was little. Thomas and Archie are Gold’s children. August and Leroy are Gepettos’ pups, he had a daughter too, but she married out of the pack. Granny had two children, Ruby’s mom died when she was little and her aunt married out. Mary Margaret and Killian are brother and sister – not that you’d now it, they don’t get along great – their dad died a few years ago too. Regina was bought into the pack as a pup, though Granny kind of adopted her. David entered the pack not long after – he’s now mated to Mary Margaret. Belle, Victor and Hood all arrived within the last few years, a bit like you, they just kind of showed up, though not as dramatically. Then you have me and Alexandra, technically we are of the same generation as Ruby. She is the eldest and, at the moment, Alex’s is the youngest - her mom’s pregnant again though and I’m sure Ruby will have a pup soon too. When that happens there will be about twenty one in the pack. We’ll be huge.”  He grinned and looked to Gold.

“Very good lad, you remembered. As you can see, Miss Swan. Whilst we have a good, thriving pack, we are not adverse to taking in strays, but it has caused issues in the past.”

“Issues? How do you mean?”

“Well, sometimes packs like to spy on others, not all have good intentions and when you are kind hearted, it can be easy to be taken for a ride, some lessons have to be learnt the hard way. This is why, whilst we welcome newcomers, we aren’t quick to allow them to join or share our secrets.”

“Oh, I thought you’d been very open, personally speaking.”

“Hmm, well you seem to be an exception on several levels my dear.”

“How?”

“Well for one you are white, a rare colour, of which there are none other recorded by any of the core packs in North America, at least there weren’t as of last year.”

“You share that level of detail with one another.?”

“Yes, every pack at the lykos shares their pack status and wolf descriptions with one another, the main reason being security and safety. It’s as much about looking out for one another as being weary. But you are also a very alluring Omega, more so than most. Again, I’m unsure why, but there’s this overriding need to protect you. As an elder I have lost my drive for lust, but protectiveness, never, and quite frankly, you wreak Miss Swan and I can only assume you do in other areas too, especially seen as Regina has taken to you.”

“She’s never taken a liking to anyone before?”

“No, never.”

“Oh…”

“Can we go and play now Mr Gold?” Alex whined.  Gold chuckled.

“Of course kids. Off you go.”

A synchronised “yay” erupted from them both as they ran over to fetch a ball.

“Tell me. You mentioned earlier that ‘pureblood’ packs often trade pups to preserve their lineage and keep it clean. Why did they not do that with Regina, I mean, if her mother didn’t like her?”  Gold took a deep breath and slowly released it.

“No pureblood pack would want a mutt, and a runt at that.” Emma’s eyes began to water.

“But I thought she wasn’t a mutt?”

“She’s not, but tell me Miss Swan, what do you know of the origins of a black were?” Emma huffed and rolled her eyes in an attempt to stop a tear.

“Nothing, like everything else.”

“Before we became – civilised, for want of a better word and formed our pack structure, a few werewolves mated with wild wolves and created a strange sort of hybrid creature, one that could only wolf out on a full moon, or vice versa, only turn human on the full moon. When this was realised, it became forbidden. Aside from the fact many thought it dirty anyway, it also became forbidden. It’s always been known that our were’s were never black, only wild wolves were, and none were prior to these dalliances, the few that did arise were from cross-mating and most were hybrids.” Emma became angry.

“So what! You are saying that Regina’s mom was ashamed that because at some point, thousands of years in the past, someone in her family was feral?”

“Or the dad’s side, or both. Either way, it doesn’t matter. It’s a blemish they didn’t want associated with them or their pack.”

“But how did they know? I mean, if you don’t wolf out until you are eight?”

“Oh they didn’t. Regina was very much loved in her early childhood. It was only on her wolf-out that it became apparent. I…I’ve only heard Regina talk about it once, when she first joined us as an adolescent, but I don’t think she’ll ever forget that moment when her mother’s face went from joy at the thought of her wolfing out, to pure bile and disgust at the mere sight of her – an instant switch.”

“God! That somehow makes it so much worse than if it had just been her life. Knowing that love, what should have been unconditional, and then having it ripped away like that…” Emma began to sob, trying to stifle the sound with her sleeve. “I… I know I didn’t have a pack, but at least I had a mother who loved me so much she was willing to die for me.”

“Indeed Miss Swan.” There was a moment of silence as both contemplated the extreme emotional parts of their lives.  “I think we should join the others now.”

“Wait! One last thing; why was she seen as a runt? Whilst I whole heartedly disagree with the mutt thing, why the runt?"

“She was an unexpected twin so one would always be smaller. Her brother also turned out to be an alpha and she probably did look small compared to him. It was likely only a jibe thrown at her though, to, in their eyes, help validate their distain. I can’t imagine her being that much smaller than the average pup.  I only know of three female Alpha’s in North America, including Regina and Granny. She is more slight than the others females too – possibly another hint to the throwback, but all three of them are smaller still than the males.” Emma’s eyes widened.

“Wouldn’t that make them very vulnerable? I mean, when it came to defending themselves and their families against other alpha’s or… I don’t know.”

“Getting bullied? And yes, it would. I don’t think it’s much fun in general being a female Alpha.”

Chapter Text

“Couldn’t have fainted a bit closer to town, could she?” Killian huffed as he continued to carry Mal back to the woodland edge. It had taken him nearly an hour to do so on foot. Regina and Ruby had flanked them, always remaining alert.

“Yes, how selfish of her to collapse so far away.” Regina sassed, just as she’d managed to transform back to her human self. She gestured for Killian to pass her over.  One of the pre-requisites for a patrol was to park the police cruiser on the edge of the woodland. There was always at least one of the town’s police officers on an official patrol too. The last few ventures alone had proven why this was required.

It took nearly three hours of rest and fluids before Mal regained consciousness and, as no-one with her was considered family, no-one was any the wiser as to her condition.

“Mayor Mills,” the consultant approaching asked. “The woman you bought in is asking for you. She won’t even give me her name.”

“Thank you, is she okay?”

“She will be, with proper rest and nutrition, yes.”

“Thank you, will she be able to leave soon?”

“I’d like to keep her in for a bit longer, but she’s insisting on leaving soon. I’m trying to delay obtaining her paperwork as long as possible, but I fear she will just walk if I don’t acquiesce soon. If she does leave, sooner rather than later, I would prefer it if she could be monitored and be around someone who could take care of her, at least for a few days.”

“I’ll see what I can arrange Dr Smith. Thank you.”

“Thank you Mayor Mills.”

“So, are you going to tell me what happened?” Asked Regina, the second she opened Mal’s door as she leant against the door frame with her arms crossed.

“Oh not here, for heaven’s sake, get me out of this God forsaken place and I will tell you everything. It’s what I was coming to do anyway.”

“Only if you agree to stay with us for at least a week, longer if needs be. You need to at least be back to full strength if you want to go at it alone again.” Mal’s eyes narrowed as though fire itself was ripping through her body, suddenly though, there was a shift as she took a deep breath and her eyes softened, as though in recognition of something.

“Fine.” She meekly said as she fumbled with her bed sheets.

“Emma, will you wander back to the house with me please?” Asked Granny. The others were still enjoying the afternoon sun, and the children were now in the throes of a tricky theoretical lesson on tracking. David was definitely taking his role seriously as Mary Margaret watched on with Gold. The rest of the pack had gone out on a  hunt. Apparently, they had a rule, at least three adults had to be with the children at any given time and only one of those could be an elder.

“Oh okay, is everything alright?”

“I’m not too sure, but we have a guest to prepare for.” Granny walked far quicker than Emma was anticipating before wolfing out. Emma was impressed; the grey and silver speckled she-wolf was bigger than expected, quite a bit bigger than Regina, closer to Killian’s size, though still more slender. She also wasn’t as scraggy as she expected – quite impressive really, and fast, still fast. Gold had a bit of arthritis now and limped somewhat, whereas she had to chase after Granny. She suddenly found herself enjoying this run immensely; she hadn’t done so with another wolf since her mother died. She couldn’t wait to run with the pack, with Regina.

Emma was helping Granny make the bed in one of the spare rooms. Apparently, thanks to a bit of reconfiguring, this mansion now had ten bedrooms, including several in the basement area. That was where Ruby and August currently made their home; they had full use of the extra sitting room and bathroom for that extra bit of privacy.

“I hope you don’t mind me pulling you away,” began Granny. “I thought it only fair to you to explain a bit about our guest so you are not in the dark about all our comings, goings and dealings.” Emma smiled softly at the older woman. “Not that we share everything with everyone, there are some things that remain only amongst the council, possibly only myself and Regina, but such things are small and rare, and they only truly apply to extremely personal and private things or pack security.”

“I don’t mind at all Granny.” Emma added before Granny could ramble on too much.

“Good, I don’t really know what’s happened, apparently she is going to tell us when she arrives, but Regina called to inform me that whilst they were out scouting near the border, they ran into an old friend. Not long after, she collapsed and Regina relayed she looked… beaten for want of a better word and not by wolves, more like fists. Anyhow, long story short, the hospital would only release her if she could be released into someone’s care until she was well enough to venture out again.”

“Oh, that’s not good. Do you know her well?” Granny smiled.

“Yes and no, she’s a character and a bit of a mystery, slightly older than me, Mal has been a lone wolf for the best part of her life  and never mated. She wanted to be free, travel. She is the only wolf who’s known to have travelled through every territory over her lifetime and she is known to every pack. Because of this, she is also invited to the Lykos as an almost, honorary member and her insight is often invaluable.  I’d be intrigued to hear what she has to say. She’s always been given an almost ambassadorial status by packs, and is a respected by all. I wonder if it was her human self that fell into trouble?” Granny mused as they heard a car pull up in the drive. They looked out of the window to see the squad car arrive.

After making Mal comfortable in front of a lit fire; Granny, Emma, Regina, Killian and Ruby all made themselves comfortable too.

“Now, understand this Mallory, you are currently under our care and protection. Our main rule is you are not to leave, should you chose to do so, until you are fully recovered. That was the deal I struck with the hospital, and as Mayor, I will not go back on my word. Now, it’s time for the other part of our bargain.” Regina softened and approached the senior wolf. “Tell us what happened, please.”

“Some liquid courage first, if you will?” Regina smirked and wandered over to the liquor cabinet, instantly pouring her a bourbon as if she knew the older woman well. Mal offered a small head nod as she took the proffered glass.

“I.. I’m getting old now, too old for wandering on my own as a lone wolf any longer. I’ve loved my life, I truly have, but I wanted to settle somewhere, wolf out less. I was in Maine and didn’t want to settle where anyone really new me, but also not somewhere where there were no other wolves. The only real option then was Rumford.”

“Rumford? You chose outlaw territory?” Killian spoke with his hackles risen.  Mal scoffed.

“Oh please lad, save it.” Mal added and one pointed look from Granny had him settle again.

“I knew I wouldn’t be recognised in human form there. If they saw me from time to time in wolf form it wouldn’t really matter, but the hope was they wouldn’t recognise me as a human and they didn’t – for a time.” She sighed and rubbed her wrist as thought lost in thought for a moment.

“What happened?” Emma asked, without really thinking. Mal eyed her curiously for a moment.

 “What is your wolf? Show me now!” Mal instructed as though she were suddenly God incarnate. Due to the demanding nature, Emma instinctively did as requested. On instinct, Killian and Ruby bore their teeth and omitted low growls as they turned to face her. Regina instantly stepped close to Emma and offered Killian and Ruby the same. It only took a few moments for Ruby and Killian to shake it off and apologise. Meanwhile, Emma was cowering behind Regina with her tail between her legs. Mal let out a small chuckle

“Oh how cute, you are one of those clans.” Mal sassed whilst walking over to Emma. “What a beautiful coat you have my dear, and most rare indeed.” Mal returned to her seat after offering Emma a small pet, a thoughtful look on her face.

Regina turned around and motioned for Emma to transform.

“I’m sorry, did I do something wrong?” Emma asked; her head hung. Regina instantly placed her hands on the blonde’s shoulders.

“No Emma, you did not. That was all on Mal. It… it’s generally not seen as polite to transform inside - old superstitions.”

“Yeah, sorry Emma, that was all on us, our reactions were more one of sudden surprise, shock. We’d never have hurt you, I hope you know that.” Emma nodded slowly. Regardless of what she tried to tell herself, it had unnerved her, though what she also noted was that even then Regina came to her side without a second thought. It was enough to set her mind at ease – for now.

“No, no, it was on me. I’m sorry Emma, I should have thought, I had assumed this clan to be above such silly superstitions though.” Mal shot Granny and Regina a pointed look. Granny squared up to her.

“Oh we are, just not used to it, that’s all. It’s not something one tends to do.”

“I will remember it for the future.” Emma quickly added.

“Anyway, eight out of ten for trying to change the topic, but let us not forget why we are here,” redirected Regina. Mal sighed and sat down again, taking another sip.

“Fine… So I settled on a farm in Rumford. You know, seen as I spend most of my time in wolf form, I never truly realised how far my money had grown, who knew I was such a shrewd investor…”

“Mallory!” Granny reprimanded. Mal sighed again.

“I bought a small homestead on the edge of town, but it didn’t take me long to realise what a dump it was.”

“The homestead?” Queried Ruby.

“The town;” rebutted Mal. “No, the wolves are as notorious as humans as they are in wolf form. They are like a large, mafia mob and their leader, Pan, is chief of police. They terrorise the neighbourhood like a bunch of pubescent vandals – stealing, drinking, fornicating, drugs, and generally creating a chaotic town. After a month or so, someone figured out who I was and the next thing you know my homestead was being ransacked. I’ve not great strength anymore in wolf form, and my human is even worse. They beat me and left me for dead with a warning that whoever I was spying for would have it coming to them.” Mal snorted into her bourbon. “They are ridiculously juvenile, like naughty adolescents given too much power, too early. I think… I think they blame you for sending me, simply because you are the nearest. The spoils they’ve been leaving behind are meant to be a show of strength. Whether or not they are planning anything else, I don’t know, but I am afraid I may have inadvertently rekindled a turf war. Sorry.” She added as she downed her bourbon.

“Well that’s just brilliant. Last time I had anything to do with them the mayor was still old man Peterson, is he still around?” Regina asked as Mal scoffed.

“No, he disappeared – mysteriously, and the Sherriff’s office didn’t investigate for very long, it turns out.”

“Please don’t tell me that one of them is now Mayor?”

“Okay I won’t.” She held her glass up for another fill. Regina obliged.

“So it is a pack member?” Regina asked as she refilled her glass. Mal raised a brow.

“I’d say it’s worse. His name is Greg Mendell and he regards himself as a bit of an lycanthrope hunter.

“A hunter? I thought they were myth?” Granny moved closer, suddenly very concerned.

“Well, it appears not. Pan, being pan has sold his pack to the devil for what he believes will be protection?”

“They told you this?” Queried Ruby.

“No, I was hunting one weekend when I ran into Pan and Mendell talking in the woods. It seems they have a joint target – Storybrooke.” Everyone remained silent for a moment.

“Why would Mendell want Storybrooke?” Questioned Emma.

“Oh I think Mendell wants everyone - dead. I’ve been thinking about this a lot. I think he went to Rumford believing the pack there to be small and disorganised, perhaps he thought he could take them out, maybe he was using them to gather information. Regardless of original intent, it appears he’s struck some kind of a deal with Pan, and their first target, is you.” There was another long beat of silence.

“We may be their first target, but I can’t imagine them wanting to stop there.  This has the potential to affect all werekind. How did they discover you?” Asked Killian.

“I can’t be certain, but I had let my guard down. I didn’t think anyone would care about one lone wolf or an ageing woman. I can only presume that they were following me and tracking me without me knowing.” She hung her head and twirled her glass. “My senses aren’t what they were. I... I can’t hear very well anymore, in either form, to the extent I’ve even booked an audiology appointment, though I think I’ll be pursuing that here instead.” She laughed ironically and raised her glass. “You think they’ve a hearing aid for wolves?” Regina knelt before the elder wolf and gently placed her hand on her knee.  

“Mal, I know you’ve just arrived, but you will always be welcome here. You needn’t fear anything from us.” In a rare display of emotion, Mal became teary eyed.

“Here, here.” Granny insisted on confirming the welcome.

“Thank you.” Mal quietly and soberly acknowledged.

Regina walked up to Granny as she was cleaning the kitchen.

“He’s not going to be acting alone, is he?” Regina asked.

“The hunter?” Granny queried. Regina hummed in the affirmative. “No, I’m almost certain he isn’t.”

“Do you know anything about it?” Regina asked, knowing that Granny or Gold of all people would be the only ones in their clan with any knowledge of such things. Wolves liked tales, and their families were now considered ancient in ancestry.

“Nothing concrete, but there’ve been many rumours of ancient orders or societies throughout history. Some of the biggest include the ‘Kabal’ and the ‘Home Office’, but no pack has ever been able to confirm the validity of the legends.

 “Do you think we should meet with the Outlaws? Or should I arrange a meeting between Mayors?” Regina asked, not really sure of what else to suggest. Granny turned and cupped the younger wolfs face.

“I do not want you to go down the lone political route, you can’t.  Whatever we decide to do, it has to be as a pack. Okay?” Regina nodded and closed her eyes. She hated the thought of a potential unknown threat. It almost made the outlaws look like pussy cats in comparison.

Chapter Text

Emma purred into Regina’s ear as they lay in bed that night, she was slightly unnerved by her lack of ability to calm the brunette. It wasn’t as though the older woman was doing anything per say, but Emma could feel a deep seated insecurity ebbing from her. The blonde began to softly draw circles on her companion’s middle.

“Hey, I… I know I don’t really know, well anything, but please don’t not talk to me. I get it if there’s something secretive that I can’t know, but I just… I don’t want you to have to deal with things alone… I guess that’s all I’m saying.” After a beat, Regina turned on her side to face the younger woman before stroking her face with the back of feather light fingers.

“Emma, I’m sorry. I’m not used to having anyone this… close. I can promise you now that there is nothing about this that I am keeping from you, honestly, you really know as much as we do. I just don’t cope well when my family is threatened that’s all. What I really want to do right now is scream and smash things, possibly even hurt someone, but what I really need to do is get my head together and come up with potential solutions instead. That’s what I need to do right now.” She calmed a bit after her rant and took Emma’s hand in hers. “I’m sorry; I’m not being very attentive.” Emma shot up on her elbow.

“What! No, Gina, that’s not what I meant…” Regina cocked her head in curiosity before a small smile overtook.

“What did you just call me?” Emma knitted her brow. Then there it was, the moment, the moment of recognition as she gasped and clasped her hand to her mouth.

“Oh my…” Emma began, but Regina sniggered before Emma could say anything else.

“It’s okay; it’s fine. Just not in front of the others, hmm? I don’t need anything else to make me seem, less than ‘alpha’.”  Emma blushed and bowed her head.

“Okay, can it be a ‘you and me’ thing?” Emma coyly questioned as Regina took a deep breath and smiled.                       

 “I look forward to finding out exactly what constitutes a ‘you and me’ thing.” With that Regina gently lay her Omega down before offering more of the attention the blonde craved – they both craved.

“Do you always rise with the sun?” Regina groaned has she listened to the shrill caw of a crow that sounded much like an angry conductor attempting to reign in the members of his session orchestra which comprised of all manner of tit, and then some. She rubbed her eyes; feeling groggy was always a good sign for her as it meant that, at some point, she must have fallen into a deep sleep, which in itself was rare.

Emma waltzed out of the bathroom, fresh as a daisy, and rounded the bed to greet Regina in a passionate kiss. Regina pushed her away with a giggle. “Don’t, I haven’t got rid of my morning breath yet, anyway, you didn’t answer my question.”

Emma sat and watched as the brunette strode towards the bathroom. “I think morning you is as, if not sexier, than pristine you.” She wasn’t just saying that either. Regina with mussed up hair and no make-up was breathtaking. Emma had never truly realised how little she’d felt or lived up until now. She’d spent so long in survival mode, she’d forgotten the point of life was to live and how it felt to feel alive. It was only after she’d met Regina that she knew there was something more to experience than what she’d become accustomed too. Now she’d experienced what she had though, even the little as she had thus far, she really didn’t want to lose it. Losing her mother was bad enough, but the thought of losing Regina? She shook her long locks to get out of her own head. It was only then she remembered the alphas original question.

“Right, um… I guess I’ve always risen with the sun. It’s kind of what you just do when you constantly live in Wolf form.” Emma could hear the clinking of trinkets in the bathroom.

“Oh, right, I suppose that makes sense.” Came the hurried response from the other woman after she’d clearly just spit her toothpaste out. Emma loved how domesticated her life suddenly was, there was no question in her mind that this wasn’t wholly what she wanted, but niggles of doubt easily began to creep again. What if this was just a type of honeymoon period? What if it becomes too mundane? What if she can’t find a way to fit in in the long term? What if she winds up being controlled over time? She shook her head again, those obstacles would either arise or they wouldn’t, and she’d deal with them if they did. Anyway, if it all fell apart, in a worst case scenario, she could always go back to a life on the run – right? Fortunately, she once again lost that destructive train of thought as Regina’s head popped around the door.

“So, what would you do after waking at around 5am, possibly earlier?”

“I’d pretty much always go for a run, catch my breakfast.” Regina smirked.

“Well, seen as you’ve disturbed my slumber, how about seeing what we can find today?” Emma’s face lit up.

“You want to go for a run?”

“Why not, it’s a Sunday and we are wide awake?” Her face then deadpanned. “However, if you think I am waking up with the sun each day, you better not get used to sharing a room.” Emma looked horror stricken at the thought.

“You think an eye mask would work?” The brunette chuckled.

“It may be worth a try. In time you will probably adjust, but it can’t hurt to try other things too.”

 Emma was fast, faster than Regina even. Regina wasn’t the fastest in terms of alpha’s more middle of the road when it came to speed, but she should be a damn sight faster than an omega. This would likely irritate most alphas, hell possibly even betas too, but Regina was glad. If they were ever in a situation whereby Emma needed to run, she knew she could, and that meant for a small amount of security. Try as she might, she constantly lagged behind, not by a lot, but it still mattered. They stopped in the clearing they used for clan gatherings.

“Umm, this is kind of where my limit lies as to the layout of your territory.” Emma asked after having transformed back to human form. Regina followed suit, arriving not long after, chuckling as she transformed back.

“My God you are fast!”  Regina noted as she feigned catching her breath as her hand clutched her chest. Whilst she was slower, she wasn’t that unfit.

“Really? Huh, it might just be because I’ve been a wolf for so long, and on the run. Lotsa practice?” Emma shrugged as she wrapped her arms around Regina and pulled her in for a passionate kiss. Regina moaned into the contact, tracing her hands down the blonde’s body and finding their rest on her hips.

“Hmm, possibly… if you are this good at running, I’d love to see you hunt. However, we do have rules.” Emma’s eyebrows shot up.

“Oh! Rules for hunting, you mean like not let it suffer?” Regina sniggered.

“That should be universal and basic, and I’m pretty sure it is amongst civilised packs. Actually, we rarely hunt to kill, as we’ve no need to. We do more for sport, catch and release. I guess you could say it’s a bit like tag football as opposed to the real thing.”

“Oh.” It was all she could really muster at the moment; she wasn’t really sure what she thought of that, she nodded for Regina to continue.

“Look, we don’t need to kill. Now and again we do, especially if a species begins to overtake, but generally, we like to keep our territory thriving. We have a list of four lone wolves that come through these parts, including Mal. They are allowed to hunt to kill, the one rule they try to follow is no pregnant or mothering animals, certainly not nursing ones, but otherwise, they are free to take what they need.” Emma thought for a moment.

“I get it, no, I do get it, it just kind of goes against my instinct.”

“Probably because you’ve been living as a wolf on survival mode for so long.”

“Yeah, I… I suppose there are a lot of new things I’m going to have to get used to.” She hung her head a bit realising just how daunting this could be. Regina lifted her chin and offered a warm smile.

“Emma, I know this is a lot, if it’s too much just say and we’ll try and work something out. I want you to feel comfortable here. I really do and I want to do everything I can to make that happen.” Emma couldn’t help but reciprocate the smile.

“And you already are, I promise. I mean, how many people would willingly get up at the arse crack of dawn to go running. I know you did that to support me.” She cupped Regina’s cheeks. “Thank you.”

“Now, enough sentimentality, show me what else you can do.” Emma nearly melted where she stood when Regina said that, but a challenge was a challenge. She shot off, leaving Regina standing in the dust, still untransformed. Regina quickly fell into line, pounding through the woodland, desperately trying to track Emma’s scent. They would definitely need to have a conversation about this soon, if only for the blonde’s safety.

Regina could see the white wolf. She prowled through the undergrowth slowly, her sight locked on a small muskrat that was teetering on the river edge. The river edge, Regina couldn’t believe how far they’d run in around fifteen minutes. On a casual border run it would take them a good forty minutes to meet this part of the river, albeit being the closest to her house.

White. Bless her. She stood out like a sore thumb. It was almost ludicrous how she’d survived so long on her own and not been taken… the thought caused a small growl to erupt from the luscious black wolf’s throat, because that’s what would have happened. She’d have been forcibly claimed by an overly pompous alpha and likely reduced to little but a pup farm factory. She noticed Emma looked back in concern, but narrowed her eyes, blinking to assure her all was well. Emma nodded her head before returning to her prey.

Just as she began to dart off, a brazen, dusky brown wolf shot from the east, darting towards Emma. Regina saw red. Without a second thought she barrelled into it, hurtling herself into the side of the scraggy beast, sending them both crashing into the river. Luckily for them, it was lazy – or perhaps this was unlucky. The muskrat scarpered and Emma about turned, noticing only the tumbling mass of fur as it splashed and tumbled in the river.

Emma ran to the edge; her eyes darting all over. Amongst the splashing and flailing she could just make out that one was clearly Regina and the other brown. Emma was mesmerised by the speed at which they tumbled around. She was torn. On the one hand, her heart clenched with fear, on the other her adrenaline was soaring. She longed to pounce, intervene in some way, but she couldn’t fathom who was who for any length of time, the river was just too deep, around belly depth, but with the rolling and splashing, it was too hard to tell. If she went in teeth barred, she’d have much a chance of hurting Regina as she would the intruder.

 That was when she heard the low growls from the other side of the river. Three other wolves were watching as she was, only from the other side. That was when Emma did begin to tremble, though she tried her best to hide it. What the hell was she supposed to do now? The only saving grace was that the others weren’t making a move either.

Regina’s side was splitting. She had no idea what had happened, perhaps she’d landed on a jagged rock, but that was her Achilles heel right now. It didn’t matter now though, this intruder, along with the rage she’d already built up was enough to keep her fighting - and breathing. She moved between nipping and biting where she could and gasping for air when she was above water. She felt like they were in a washing machine, tossing and turning with limited air. That was when she made the decision, she had little choice.

On her next breath, Regina took the biggest her lungs would allow. Screw the pain. She tried desperately to find a neck or belly, but no avail. She felt stabbing pains to her paw and her neck, but nothing incapacitating. On what felt like the millionth tumble, though it was likely less than twenty, she got it. Whatever it was, was soft, malleable and locked between her jaw. She bit as hard as she could and held it down, using all her paws to mount the rest of the beast.

Above water, Emma began to panic. There was some hair floating above the surface, but that was about it. The water began to still. Every synapse in Emma fired. Just as she was about to charge forth, all of the hair disappeared. Every watching wolf crept to the edge, their heads scanning to and fro, frantically.

After what felt like forever, paws appeared on the bank not far from Emma. She really didn’t care who it was at this stage, she bounded towards them, praying in earnest.

Her prayers were answered. As she arrived, Regina’s head popped above the surface, gasping for breath. Emma found what looked to be a clean spot of neck and grabbed at it, helping her up.

With the help of Emma, Regina managed to pull herself out and dragged herself a few meters away. She crouched, regaining her breath whilst trying to remain upright.

Emma was completely lost as to what to do. In her old life she’d have run, dragged her mother out of there and curtailed it. The other option was to transform back, but that would risk their identities; that was out. She had to take Regina’s lead on this and only hoped she had some strength left to help guide her, but her attention was stolen by the sound of a kafuffle and more splashing water.

Two of the other wolves had leapt into the water and found their ‘friend’. They were now dragging him out. Emma stepped in front of Regina, shielding her from their view as she took their actions in. Once they had dragged the wolf out of the water, the remaining, lead wolf began an inspection. Emma froze, she’d recognise that beast anywhere, it was the one who had attacked her. She wasn’t foolish enough to think he wouldn’t recognise her. She only hoped his attention would remain on his fallen comrade.

It was then she felt someone sidle up to her. She looked to her left and noticed Regina had hobbled to her side. She quickly took a moment to nuzzle her. Regina closed her eyes, soaking in the momentary comfort before they both returned their gaze to the scene before them.

Rufio had finished his inspection. He stepped forward, narrowing his eyes as he drank the two of them in. Then he howled. The other two followed suit, but after a moment, he about turned and walked off. The other two wolves each grabbed a leg of their fallen friend and dragged it out of sight.

Once they were sure they had left, Regina nudged Emma and led her out of the clearing. They walked in silence for about half a kilometre before Regina huddled by a tree and curled herself into a ball. Emma was completely out of her depth. She stood over the mayor, whimpering as she considered her options.

Chapter Text

Regina was still curled in on herself with Emma now protectively wrapped around her, listening intently for anything and everything. At first she thought Regina was taking a quick break, but it had been at least ten minutes now. She was close to transforming herself into a human and seeing if she could carry Regina’s weight when she heard rustling in the distance. Instantly alert, she tried to decipher anything recognizable. 

The first thing to calm her nerves was the fact that whoever was enroute was approaching from Storybrooke. After a few more beats, a familiar scent waft by. Ruby!

Emma let out a few small howls and crouched back to listen. The rustling grew louder until she could hear the unmistakable sound of two approaching wolves. She let out another howl and stood up. Within a few moments, Ruby and Graham burst around the corner on high alert, instantly pounding over to Emma when they saw her. There were around three seconds of awkward staring before Ruby caught onto another smell and frantically began looking around. Emma used this as her key to transform, immediately followed by Ruby and Graham.  It was then that both saw Regina over her shoulder, still curled in on herself.

“What the!!!” Ruby instantly ran to her side.

“We… we were attacked, near the border. I think a wolf tried to charge at me, but Regina intercepted. Regina… she, she charged at him. They fell into the river and I couldn’t see anything as they fought. Others appeared too, but they stood on the other side. The one who attacked me was there watching as well, the alpha.” Emma began to cry, her snotty nose now leaking into her mouth. “Regina, she managed to kill him but he’s taken chunks out of her. We made it this far, but then she just did this. I was going to transform, to try and carry her, but then I heard you two coming.”

Ruby was bent over her wounded friend, slowly trying to inspect her, but it was hard to gauge anything with her being in such a tight ball and her fur all slick and glossy with water, possibly blood. “Regina, hey?” The beta slowly patted her head and neck, only to find blood on her hand when she pulled it away, Regina remained non-responsive.

“She knew we would be heading this way, she clearly had no strength to continue, or transform.” Graham added, also trying to get a better look. “We need to get her back to the house, get a better look.”

“Should we call Whale?” Threw out Ruby.

“Definitely, let’s be better safe than sorry.”

It was Mal who first greeted them at the door, being on enforced bed rest was a big trial for her. She’d spent the best part of the early morning catching up on town gossip with Granny before she left to do a food shop. She’d spent the last thirty minutes dis-heartedly trying to spy on whom she quickly discovered to be absent neighbours. She was close to already opening the liquor cabinet when she heard shouts coming from the woods. Her ears instantly pricked and she now found herself in the garden, trying to decipher more.

“Help!” The sound was a lot closer now. She ran to the sheltered gate in the back fence and quickly opened it. She heard before she saw at least one wolf and some humans approach. Ruby quickly ran into view and sprinted to her feet before transforming.

“It’s Regina!” Was all she could say as Mal’s eyes instantly widened before she saw Emma and Graham carefully trying to carry the sprawled out Mayor between them, who looked to be unconscious.

“Dear Lord!” Came Mal’s only response. Both she and Ruby reflexively held the old iron gates open for them to carefully carry her through. They took her straight into the rear sitting room and gently placed her on the couch. Emma stood back, her breath now shuddering with tears she’d not managed to quench as she watched them begin to work. Mal was examining her head, Ruby her rear.

“Okay, she’s a chunk completely missing from her left ear, and hopefully, what will only transpire to be teeth scrape marks on her on her head. Her neck appears okay. Graham, clearly feeling uncomfortable, went to put the kettle on.

“Her tail is fine, same with her nether regions, though her left leg is very swollen.” Ruby added.

“Same with her left arm.” Mal continued to gently work around her body. Shaking her head as she did so and occasionally grimacing. None of which helped Emma’s nerves. “She’s loads of small bites and gouges. I can’t tell if any of them are deep though.” Mal stopped for a moment and looked to Ruby who seemed concerned with something specific. “What is it?” Mal added, not liking the silence.

“It’s her hip. Very swollen.” Mal turned grey. That was not good news for anyone, let alone a wolf and a smaller, already insecure Alpha at that. Emma also stepped closer.

“She.. she was walking on it okay, I mean, for a while, before she gave up.” Mal just nodded, deep in thought before they were interrupted by a hurried and frantic knock on the door. Ruby ran to it as though it were a lifeline.

“You said it was Regina!?” Was all Whale said as Ruby quickly pulled his arm, directing him to her. He gulped before crouching to begin his exam as Mal and Ruby began relaying their findings. First thing he did was take a closer look at her head, it didn’t seem to alarm him too much. Her harm, possibly broken, but likely hairline. The hip on the other hand.

“I want to get her to my clinic.” They wasted no time in placing her in his car. Mal in the front and Emma in the back cradling Regina's head. Ruby had crawled into the boot, using the excuse of not allowing a higher member of the clan to be there. Whale quickly acquiesce, not allowing a silly spat to hinder their haste. Graham had been charged with informing Granny.

Upon arrival at the clinic, Emma and Mal had been relegated to the vet waiting room as it was closer than the human one. The local veterinarian centre was located at the rear of the hospital in an adjoined, though completely separate, building. It was in a disused room not far below whereby Whale merged both medicine disciplines in his care for their pack. Whilst he was primarily a human medical  professional and couldn’t appropriately care for say, a rabbit, he’d made it his personal project to learn all about the anatomy and care of anything canine. He was probably more specialist in that now than the actual veterinarians.  

It had been less than thirty minutes before Granny  had burst through the doors to the otherwise quiet clinic. Only really home to the three wolves, a woman with her elderly cat and a man with something like a chipmunk in a little wooden box. She didn’t even need to say anything. Her face did all the talking as she approached the three desperate wolves.

 “We don’t know anything yet, she’s with Whale.” Granny just nodded and sat to join their row. All four now sat in silent, distressed shock. The woman with the cat in particular, looking completely confuddled by their presence.

It was nearly four hours after that the back door opened and Whale ushered them through.

“Sorry it took so long, I wasn’t taking any risks and ran every test, just to be sure. The bloods won’t be back for a few days, but it was the MRIs and X-rays I wanted to ensure were thoroughly done and its… actually not horrendous, though not brilliant either.” All four woman collapsed into each other in one way or another as the realization hit that she was at least going to live. Granny’s nod urged him to continue.

“For the most part it’s cuts and bruises. Including and most importantly on her head, though she's lost the tip of her left ear. She has suffered no damage to her brain. She passed out due to loss of blood coupled with exhaustion.” He shook his head and even laughed a bit. “It must have been one hell of a fight.”

“It was.” Emma snapped, not liking his attitude to it. Still herself only recovering from the adrenaline rush and shock. He held up his hands, unsure why he was quite doing that to an Omega, but here he was.

“I meant no disrespect, quite the opposite in fact. I only hope the other wolf feared worse.”

“Oh he did, he’s dead.”

“What!” Granny and Whale exclaimed in synchronized shock.

“She had no choice!” Emma's chest rattled with a small growl, her hackles almost shining through. Whale again found himself raising his hands whilst Granny took a careful step closer.

“Emma. No, that’s not what bothers us. Believe me, we are glad she won, even if it did mean a death. It must have been brutal.” Emma backed down, sniffing back a wobble in resolve.

“It was.” She added, clearly still disturbed by the whole thing, a point Granny and Mal took clear note of as they shared a glance.

“What is it that concerns you?” Granny thought to ask Whale, the instant relief she was alive slowly fading.

“She’s a broken rib whereby a tooth cracked a bone, but she’s also running a temperature and has a rapid heart rate. Infection as yet unknown, but she’s on the strongest antibiotics and retrovirals, just to be sure. I am hoping they work before we even get the bloods back. Aside from that, the only main concern is her hip. Her arm was badly bitten, but not broken. The rest of the leg bites are superficial and should heal nicely. Now, luckily, her hip bone, socket and general structure is sound, but she accrued some nasty damage to her surrounding muscles and tissue. Whilst she will recover, and will regain most of her mobility with physiotherapy, she will never regain her full mobility. At the very least, she will need to take it very easy – for months. In truth, I can't ever see her running at the head of anything, she will likely lag behind now.” He emphasized. They all remained silent for a while.

“Okay, so not too bad. It’ll be tough, but it’s Regina, she will pull though one way or another.” Mal asserted confidently.  Granny nodded, only hoping that was true.

“Can we see her?” Emma finally asked. He shook his head.

“No, she is still unconscious and I have no idea what this infection is. The room she’s in is pretty sterile. I don’t want to add any more pathogens into the mix.” Emma slowly nodded. It made sense and there was no way she was risking making her worse.

“Go home.” Whale finally commanded. “I’m not letting you in today, possibly not even tomorrow, but I promise I will ring with any change and keep you in the loop. The second I am happy she’s not at further risk I will allow you to see her.” Granny placed an arm around Emma.

“Come on lass, let’s go home. We can do naught else here and we’ve a pack to inform.”  Emma looked to  Granny, still teary eyed; lip wobbling.

“Whale is not only her best chance but he is a member of our family and we trust him, wholeheartedly with her.” Emma slowly nodded and Whale himself was taken aback, left aghast. He’d always been a bit of a black sheep, him and Killian, but this… he’d never felt so loved, belonged, or humble.

By the evening, nearly every member of the pack had gathered at the mansion, most of the time was spent in silent vigil.

After arriving back at the mansion, they’d rung around the rest of the pack, informing them of the news. Graham kept himself busy, making endless teas and coffee and Mal and Granny had taken Emma aside.

“How are you doing?” Asked Granny whilst gently stroking her arm as she took a seat on the edge of a bed. She had no idea whose room they were in.

“I’m okay.” Emma managed to squeak out. Mal and Granny carefully sat on either side.

“Tell us what happened.” Mal softly asked. Emma shook her head.

“I… I didn’t sense him, smell him, hear him. Nothing. Hell, I’m only assuming it was male.” She rubbed away a stray tear with the back of her palm. Granny took out a clean tissue from her sleave and offered it as an alternative. “I… I was just hunting, trying to show off. I ran away from her, purposefully! As fast as I could. I knew she was behind me, but I also knew she was struggling to keep up. I actually had to slow a bit.” Unbeknownst to Emma, both woman shared a curious look over her head.

“In my cocky arrogance I risked her life. I was reckless and juvenile. If… I clearly wasn’t focusing properly or I’d have sensed the danger. I’ve never not before, I don't understand it. The first I knew about it was when they clashed in what I’m assuming was Regina barging into him, having to protect me.” She sobbed and sniffed again. “It was horrendous. They were there for a good five minutes rolling around in the stream.” She shot her head to Granny, suddenly panicked.

“I wanted to help her, I really did, but they blurred into one…”

“And you had as much of a chance of hindering Regina as him.” Added Mal as the blonde’s head shifted to the other woman.  She merely nodded.

“You did the right thing Emma.” Added Granny. “You could easily have caused more damage to her or hindered her. Let’s just be grateful we aren’t the ones burying anyone.” Another thought finally occurred to Emma as her eyes bugged.

“What does this mean for us, I… I mean your pack?” Granny sighed.

“It’s not good Emma,  but at least you were there to witness it and it was an attack on our soil. It doesn’t negate the fact, however, that they now have an extra grievance against us. I think, to be on the safe side, we need to be war ready. Just in case.” Emma crumpled.

“I am so sorry.” She spluttered between sobs.

“It’s not your fault lass.” Granny cooed as she gently rubbed her shoulder, whilst sharing yet another concerned look with Mal.

Chapter Text

Sunday night came and went pretty quickly. Emma sat on the garden swing chair, watching the sunset. For a few moments, the peace and warmth made her feel alive again, but that only served to make her feel all the more guilty. The fact that she got to sit, basking in the radiant glow of the setting sun, whilst Regina was in hospital, battling unknown ills and not even managing to lick her own wounds was sobering. One’s she’d acquired defending her nonetheless. Her mind replayed and replayed the ambush. Nothing. She still couldn’t pinpoint a smell, a sound. Anything tangible to ascertain how he’d even approached her in the first place.

Her mind betrayed her as her thoughts spiraled. Her ears and eyes suddenly becoming hyper alert as she scanned the garden. The little she could see from her vantage point, on the decking beyond the high walls was limited. Could they be out there now, right now? How would she know? How did she not know the first time? Not wanting to be alone anymore, she made her way into the grand sitting room, where most of the pack remained gathered. The television was on, but no-one was really watching. Those with young children had taken them home and they were beginning to settle down for the night. Whale had called around an hour ago to inform them Regina was still resting and he was going to get some too and that he’d update them in the morning, unless something drastic changed.

Granny, Mal and the others were discussing the imminent threat to their pack. That was when they called Emma in to join them.

She sheepishly walked amongst those remaining. Granny and Mal sat on a sofa with Ruby. Gold, Geppetto, Archie, Graham, Katherine, Mulan, Archie, August, Leroy, Belle, Victor, Hood and Killian were all sat around with expectant eyes. She gulped.

“Now lass, it’s all good. I’m afraid we’ve just been having the ‘serious conversation’. The one we’d put off having whilst the children were here.” Granny patted the arm of the chair she was sat on to encourage Emma to sit.

Granny, Mal, Ruby and Emma, had had a long discussion upon their return to try and ascertain the facts. They then were at pains to reassure her it was not her fault. This helped – to a certain extent.

“I want you to tell us again, exactly what happened prior to the attack?” Emma took a deep breath after looking around. She had to do this for Regina, if nothing else.

“We were racing. I was showing off, I’m afraid. I also didn’t know quite where I was heading. I stopped when I realised I was near the river. You’d spoken of this being your boundary and I didn’t want to cross it. I planned to catch something quickly too, to surprise Regina with.” She shrugged and hung her head a bit. “Like I said, showing off.”

“I was focused on catching a muskrat… you must understand something, I’ve wandered alone for years now, around a decade. I’m hyper alert; all the time. Still am, but nothing. There was no scent, sound anything that alerted me to another presence, other than the fact I could smell the consistency of Regina. If she hadn’t have seen the wolf mount it’s attack, I would have been completely blindsided.” This caused much muttering amongst the others.

“So, you are saying that they were somehow shrouded, like a ghost or forcefield of some kind, how would that even be possible?” Granny and Mal looked to one another, both affirming the right to share.

“Understand that we can’t be certain of anything yet. But it seems as though the outlaws are in league with potential Lycan hunters. Whether it be the Cabal or Home Office, we are unsure. A member of whichever group, one Greg Mendel, has also taken over as mayor.” Granny began, but the whispering intensified.

“I heard with my own ears.” Clarified Mal, causing 0everyone to listen again. “As impaired as my hearing is, I know what I heard. Storybrooke is their first target. It would likely explain the recent mess at the border, possibly putting out feelers. Who knows, if what Emma says here has any truth, they could be far closer than you think. Possibly trying to draw you out, catch you off guard when you are on your own, much like with Emma.”

“That still doesn’t explain how they are able to shroud their whereabouts though?” Queried Granny.

“No, but if real, the Home Office is an ancient and powerful organisation. Who knows what capabilities they’ve bought into the mix.” This was the first time Emma had smelt a collective fear like this. It wasn’t potent, or imminent, but it was there. Humming beneath the surface, threatening to pervade all  their space.

“Can I look further into that?” Came a timid request from Belle.

“If by looking into it, you mean research using what you have at your disposal here? Yes, please. But you must keep your work a secret and be careful. Talk about it to no-one and certainly don’t go hunting for anything beyond our border. You will keep the council up-to-date and if you find anything important, you let us know right away. Does that sound acceptable?” Belle looked almost giddy at being entrusted with this.

“Yes, of course Granny.” Granny offered a knowing smile.

“Is there a way we can narrow down the agency? I mean, find out if it is the Cabal for instance?” They all thought for a moment.

“I can start by looking into this Greg Mendel, with Regina’s aid, when she is up and running again, she may be able to help me access more information, possibly Graham and Ruby too with their police databases. I mean, he is running the town that is presently littering out territory?”

“Yes, why don’t you use him as your starting point.” Agreed Granny.

“I’d imagine, if anything, it would be the Home Office, they are more notoriously known to have been prevalent on this side of the world too.” Belle began writing all the useful information she could determine down.

“Okay, so what do you want us to do in the meantime? I mean, it’s slightly worrying that we are potentially being watched, even hunted without our knowledge?” Offered Graham. 

“It is. We are going to maintain our border patrol but I want four of us on it at all times. No-one, and I mean no-one is allowed to wander the woods alone. In fact, let’s make four our rule. It has to be in groups of four and don’t wander too deep. For now we maintain our vigilance and lay low. We will keep you all updated with any findings and developments. Is that acceptable?” There were a few murmurs.

“I think that sounds like a solid plan and we really can do little else for now.” Added Archie whilst looking around trying to gage the room.

“Any objections?” Most shook their heads, but no-one had an objection. “Great. I suggest you all go home, it’s been a long day. I will update the minutes as an announcement on our pack chat and explain our temporary rules. I will also update everyone the moment we get news on Regina.” With that said and done, people were more than happy to go home to their loved ones and sleep.

A blinding white light pierced through her skull; it felt as though daggers were prodding her temples. The accompanying groan was apparently loud enough to alert Whale, who must have been close at hand.

“Regina?” His voice was calm, too calm and far too, uncharacteristically, soft. Her mind wandered to the worst as she tried to sit up in response but the sharp, shooting pain in her arm and leg were what stopped her first, followed by the pull in her chest. Was she even in one piece? It was hard to tell. His voice carried like an offensive gentle breeze, as though he were not trying to spook an abused, abandoned animal. She mentally growled and sucked in as much air as she comfortably could, which to her annoyance wasn’t a lot. She opened her eyes; deciding to get this over with instead. After a bit of wincing and adjustment, she finally found his face.

“Just hit me with it?”  She finally voiced. Whale couldn’t help a small smile at that. He stepped closer, ensuing she could see and hear, before detailing her injuries.

She was fine with them all (though she wasn’t best pleased over her now disfigured ear, though at least she could hide that one way or another) until he arrived at the hip blow. The rest she could deal with and thanks to her enhanced werewolf healing, her ribs and arm should be better within, potentially a few days. The reality was, she wouldn’t have a better idea regarding her hip until around a months’ time and after a few sessions of physio. That in itself wouldn’t even be able to begin without at least one week of rest. At least she was a werewolf. Whale had told her that chunks of muscle and cartilage had been completely removed. Her body will be able to remap to a certain extent, and it will do a better job than any surgery he could offer would allow, but she would potentially never regain full movement. He couldn’t even tell right now whether or not it would cause permanent pain or greatly hindered mobility, only time would tell. There was a few moments of quiet contemplation on both of their parts, until a realisation suddenly hit her.

“Emma..!” Dr Whale instantly held his arms up.

“Is absolutely fine. She’s fine Regina, and at home with the pack. Obviously, due to your extra… infection, I insisted no-one stayed. That is the only reason she’s not here. Whilst everyone wanted to stay, after a bit of explanation, they all realised how potentially fatal that could be.” Regina quietly nodded as a sense of relief washed her system.

“I…I don’t feel I’ll, I mean, not feverish or hot?”

“That is because I also have some good news. You’ve slept all night, in fact it is nearly lunchtime on Monday. You’ve been dosed to the eyeballs with all manner of antibiotics and retroviral’s. I’ll admit it’s not great to overuse, but there was no way I was taking a chance with you, especially after what had happened and what you could have been exposed too – in water as well, nonetheless. I’ve also just received your bloods back and I believe it actually stemmed from your bite with Killian. It was in the early stages, but cellulitis was forming under the old wound. The good news is it won’t get much worse before it gets better as it was caught before most would even know they had it. In three days it should start to retract massively and I expect it to be fully healed, gone, in around seven. Though it is really important you maintain your high dosage of antibiotics for ten full days. We need you fit and well.” Regina couldn’t help a small smile at that. Whale really had gone up in her estimations since they’d found Emma. “Now, would you like to update the pack, or should I?” Regina beamed.

Three days later, Granny and Ruby were helping Regina back into the mansion. Whale had tried to insist on a wheelchair, but Regina insisted she’d make do with crutches. Afterall, it would only be for a short while. He eventually acquiesced, under the strict condition she mostly rest, and wolfing out for at least a month was completely forbidden. He also wanted her back in one week for further tests and scans.

The first thing to happen when setting foot through the door was to be, almost, jumped upon by Emma, who had the good sense to stop and cup her face instead. “I have missed you soooo much.”  The blonde squeaked as she placed a quick chaste kiss on the brunette’s lips.  Regina couldn’t help but giggle at her reaction and used her left arm to embrace the younger woman. “Come, we’ve made you a snug.” Regina’s brow’s knit at that.

“A what?” Emma gently guided her into the smaller sitting room. Infront of the fire, they’d moved the cosiest arm chair that tilted and had feet rests. They’d adorned it with blankets, pillow and it already had a little snack bowl filled with nuts and a glass of water awaiting her arrival. She noticed her current book also on the side table.

“I love it.” She specifically turned to Emma, knowing full well she’d remained behind to ensure her arrival be a welcome and comfortable one. “Thank you.” She whispered, before placing a slightly less chaste kiss on her new love.

“I take it I’m meant to fester here for the foreseeable then?” She deadpanned to Granny, who could only chuckle in response.

“Oh how I’m glad to have my girl back.” She gingerly half-hugged her ward as Regina melted into the embrace for a moment. The sentimentality of it lost on no-one.

“Fester you will not, but reside your days here for now you will. And the more you behave, the less we will annoy you.” Regina couldn’t help an eye roll at that. “Anyway, we have much to talk about and up-date you on, so let’s all get comfortable, shall we.” They helped Regina settle into the chair. Emma insisted on wrapping her up in a blanket, as though it were some sort of shield. When Regina finally looked like a hamster stuffed in a house full of bedding, Granny and Ruby caught her up to the events of their previous meetings and the temporary, new pack rules, of which Regina approved. It wasn’t long after that, that Belle arrived. She’d been practically couped up in the library since the last meeting.  Granny thought it important that their first update be in the presence of Regina.

“I’ve found out quite a bit, but I’ll be honest, it’s from books that have mainly been placed under the conspiracy isle.”  Belle Began.

“That’s only to be expected lass, after all, you’ll find most wolf-kind literature either their or in fantasy too.”

“True, but honestly, there was one book in particular that drew upon what seems to be solid evidence and testimony. That is where I am basing most of this information on for now.”

“It’s a good a start as any.” Offered Regina, encouragingly.  Belle looked at her lovingly, clearly pleased she was back and almost engaging with the pack as normal. She hoped this was a good sign. She was overly worried her friend may spiral, she only hoped she wouldn’t too much in the coming weeks.

“So, I do believe, if they are part of a larger organisation, it is most likely to be the Home Office, as they were said to be mainly founded and based in North America. Earliest references of such an organisation seem to date to around the in the early 1600s. Not long after the English settled at all. The book suggests that the settlers bought foreknowledge of werewolves with them. It also suggests that prior to 1607, werewolves lived harmoniously with the indigenous tribes here.”

“Well that would actually tie in with our folk law too. In many instances wolves were even protected and seen as spirit guides.”  Added Granny.

“Well that may well have been the case, but it all changed. Pierce – the man who wrote the book, believes that a sort of taskforce  was set up to round up the Were problem and clear the land ready for further colonisation. Only it didn’t quite go as they expected. The animals they found were larger and more fierce than their European counterparts. They also seemed to have an ability that was unique to this continent. Telepathy.”

“What?” You mean Were on other continents can’t communicate with one another whilst in wolf form?” Pondered Emma.

“That’s what he suggests. He stated a few studies, but I haven’t looked into verifying them yet. There’s a few studies I want to look  into, but I’ve only just finished going through the book. Anyway, being larger, faster and seemingly having unique special abilities, meant the Home Office failed to make any significant dent in our population, potentially only managing to kill and or capture a few.”

“Capture?” Ruby was as engrossed as the rest.

“Yes, which in and of itself is not good. If they obtained, even a few, they would have had the means to test, study, even experiment on us. There is one testimony from a lone wolf, suggesting this was the case. It was this testimony that drew Pierce’s intrigue. Apparently, Pierce used to feed the homeless and one man stood out to him. He listened and at first thought him to be mad, but John, which is what they ended up addressing him as, as he wasn’t even sure he had a name himself, was very adamant and consistent in his tails. His scars even married up. So Pierce did some digging.” Belle paused to have some water and granny offered her a biscuit.

“He began to do some research and started to uncover evidence that ultimately led to him writing this book. According to him, the taskforce never disbanded, but withdrew to strengthen and obtain more knowledge. He believed it turned into a kind of X-files. A secret division now hidden amongst the intelligence committee that specialises in the more unusual. He ultimately believes, in relation to Were-kind, that they were bidding their time and pooling resources and knowledge to affectively take the population down. Now, if this is true, it could be that the fight is just beginning.”

“That… is a terrifying thought.” Pondered Emma, who was sitting on the floor next to Regina. She subconsciously sidled closer and felt Regina’s hand gently settle on her shoulder. She instantly relaxed as she felt Regina’s hand cover her own.

“Indeed.” Added Regina. “So, for argument’s sake, let’s say all this is true. What Mal witnessed would make a lot of sense. They are looking for a way in and it appears they’ve found one.” She sat up as straight as she could, almost avoiding a wince, but managing to keep her features fairly schooled. “I.. I can’t honestly see how we can obtain further information without potentially placing a human spy in Rumford.” That caused a moments silence, a mixture of shock and contemplation.  “I can use my official channels to look further into this Greg Mendell, but if he does work for a secret government organisation, it may well send me on a false breadcrumb route, though I will see what I can dig up, at the very least it will tell us how he wants to be perceived. It will also give me something to do whilst I’m sat here all day. That and catching up on my work mail, no-doubt I will be flooded with complaints over one thing or another.” She sighed, in one way she wanted to drown herself in work, on the other hand, it would mainly be whining town folk.

“That would be useful.” Encouraged Belle. “I also want to follow up on the sources I’ve found, see if they lead down any other Rabbit holes.”

“Then that’s settled.” Granny slapped her hands on her knees as she stood. “I think we should wrap this up for now. Regina needs to rest and we’ve all work to do.  With that clear command, the meeting came to a swift close.

Later that eve, Emma helped Regina hop upstairs. She wasn’t able to weight bare at all at the moment and that alone was like a dagger through Emma’s heart, though Regina had refused to wallow all day and night in the same chair, plus, she really wanted a bath.

Emma sat Regina on the bed and proceeded into the ensuite, smiling at the bath with jets, because, of course. There was also an array of smellies and things she’d never heard of. She picked up the bottle that had both muscle relaxing and rejuvenating within it’s description and began to run the bath. She peered through the door, wondering if Regina had managed go begin to undress. She marveled at the half-naked body that now sat on the bed. She really was like a Goddess and Emma was amazed to see the bruising around her rips now reduced to a barely noticeable pale yellow. They’d be completely gone by tomorrow. Alpha’s did have renowned healing capabilities, but she’d never really known one to witness it.

“Hey, need a hand?” It wasn’t hard to see Regina had reached her undressing limit.

“Please.” It took a moment of fumbling for them to even figure it out.

“Right, stand up with your crutches.” As she did so, Emma pulled her trousers down to around her knees. She sucked in a breath as she noticed her hip. It actually had chunks missing. Not huge mouthfuls, but enough to create a more moon-like appearance. The bruising surrounding it was also still more prevalent.

“I am so sorry.” Emma placed gentle, feather-like kisses around the edges of the bruising. “I should never have been showing off. I was so excited I didn’t even fathom the possibility of danger. I was so stupid…” Emma tailed off and hung her head, though it wasn’t long before Regina raised it.

“Emma, listen to me now. It was not your fault. Yes we need to make sure we are more careful now, but you could never have foreseen that. NOTHING, and I mean, nothing, that happened was down to you. Do you understand?” Emma looked into her Alpha’s loving eyes, seeing only truth and love.

“I do not deserve you.”

“No Emma, it is eye that do not deserve you… especially seen as you are presently in training for taking care of an aged, knowing my luck, incontinent, bitter elder.” Emma scoffed.

“I’ll take it, I’ll take it any day.”