The Magic Within ↠ Once Upon A Time

[Chapter 15] New Allies, Old Friends

~Emma's POV~

After visiting the library with Henry and Regina, I decide to discuss my findings with my parents. I thought it was best to ask them if they know anything since they practically know everyone in the Enchanted Forest, and beyond. They could possibly tell me something about the legend of the 'Forbidden Jungle' or anything regarding the creatures inside. I walk up the flight of stairs, taking two at a time, leading up to my apartment, which I share with my parents.

I came by myself since Henry was so keen on leaving, saying that he had to meet up with his friend for a group project. Now, what was their name again? Mary, Markus, Mario... Marley; Marley! That's it. Henry had to go with his friend Marley to work on a science project. Luckily, he let me take the book with me. I would've thought that he would want his first look at the book, trying to get as much as he could out of it, but I guess he was too busy with other plans.

Finally, I reach the front door to my apartment, and I turn the doorknob and push open the door. I walk into the rather large room and find my parents lounging about on the dining room table, with Mary Margaret feeding my baby brother. When I enter the room, Mary Margaret and David turn their attention from Neal to me. Once they spotted me, they immediately spot the storybook in my hands.

"I'm guessing you found something?" Mary Margaret asks.

"Yea. Regina, Henry, and I found a new storybook. I didn't think it was possible, but I guess there are more stories out there," I respond.

David crosses his arms. "Well, I suppose that's good news. So, anything on your suspect?"

"I think I have something that helps." I place the book on the table, making sure not to slam it against the wood and scare my brother. Then, I flip through every page, not caring at the moment what stories they contain, and find the page regarding my little leopard friend. My parents lean closer, getting a better look at the picture.

"What is that?" Mary Margaret asks.

"Her name is Sabor. She's known as the deadliest creature in the Forbidden Jungle."

"Forbidden Jungle?!"

"How many people know this place besides me? Seriously, you guys couldn't bother to tell me about this place?"

"You never brought it up."

"Okay, fine. Anyways, this 'Sabor' creature was known to kill the young animals; you know, the kids."

"Oh my... So, you think this creature is out there?!"

"I'm not sure, but I'm going to find out."

"What if this creature comes after Neal or any other child?" Mary Margaret tightens her hold on Neal.

"I'm not going to let that happen," David and I say in sync.

"Don't worry," I start, "We'll get to the bottom of this before this leopard has a chance to lay a claw on anyone. But..."

"But, what?" David asks.

"What I don't understand is it says in this story that Sabor was killed by a girl who was living in the jungle."

"How is it possible then that she isn't even alive? I thought there was no way, not even through magic, to bring back the dead. Well, you know besides Killian."

"I don't know. But, like I said, I'll get to the bottom of it."

"Anyways," Mary Margaret begins, "Who was this girl that slayed this beast?"

I turn over to the next page, revealing the girl in her heroic stance. "Her name is-"

"Melody?"