Yo! OMG, sorry for the extremely long wait! I've come to the realization that I'm a writer with many words. So, here's an extremely long chapter to make up for the wait. I hope it's worth the read! Danielle Allison Mills is here, and she'll be unstoppable! 💕🥲
The link to the Spotify playlist I made which has inspired me to write Ch 5 Part 1-3
✨Check it out if you wish✨
https://open.spotify.com/user/31akidxw54hpvpychdzuvrs2x2di?si=fbGkROFjQC2UczcdLPF2ow
Danielle
Chapter 5
PART 2
The Merry Man's Camp - Sherwood Forest - October 31, 1973
The sight before me brought a lump to my throat and I swallowed hard, struggling to contain the emotion that was welling up inside of me.
There they were the perfect family, their eyes filled with love as they gazed upon their tiny new bundle of joy. A perfect little boy, part of him and part of her, that they would cherish unconditionally.
This new addition was their flesh and blood, their special son.
I felt a twinge of jealousy washing over me, and I started to second-guess my place here. After all, I was only a little orphan girl whom they took in as their own one year ago.
But... Why do I feel this way? These were the first two people who showed me love and care while growing up in the orphanage.
She has always been my guiding light, the one who not only nurtured me since I was three weeks old but also taught me the value of kindness and how to use it as a weapon. Alongside her, he stood as my mentor, boosting my self-confidence and introducing me to the thrill of horseback riding at the tender age of three and the art of archery at four.
They were the sole adult figures who believed in me and protected me when no one else did.
But now, now I don't feel so lucky anymore. I feel insignificant in their eyes. It's kind of hard not to wonder why they suddenly don't need me anymore now that they have their freshly born son. I can't shake the feeling that I have suddenly been replaced.
These past few years, they have lovingly raised me as their daughter, despite not sharing an ounce of their blood. Yet, as I stand here and witness this scene before my eyes, I can't help but feel like an outsider invading a precious family moment, and doubts start to flood my mind. Do I truly belong? Do I still have a place in their hearts? Am I still deserving of being a part of this family?
Because I desperately wanted to be...
The tears that had been painfully welling up in my eyes were now running free, streaming down my cheeks without any apology. It was as if a dam had broken, releasing all the pain and hurt I had been holding in. At this very moment, all the negative thoughts and emotions consumed me, drowning out any remaining positivity. Now, all I want to do is run away, to escape and never look back. I feel like I have no purpose here anymore. Why should they love me anyway when not even my birth mother or father did? I don't deserve them. I don't deserve anyone.
So, I did what I do best.
I ran.
"DANIELLE!"
Children's Home of the Angels - Stablewood, Nottingham – April 15, 1972
"Well, well, well, look who decided to grace me with her presence," Ms. Harrington sneered, not even bothering to lift her gaze from her paperwork. The young woman's uncertainty was practically palpable as she stepped into the study chamber.
"I was hoping we could have a discussion," Marian said, her voice calm and composed.
"A discussion? About whom or what, Maid Marian?" the older woman inquired, her gaze still focused on her paperwork.
"Danielle," Marian replied, her voice steady.
"Ah, of course," Ms. Harrington responded, her gaze still directed towards the paperwork on her desk as she dipped her quill in ink.
"I'm not so sure that your plan will be the most suitable choice for her," Marian voiced, aiming to initiate a rational discussion with her aunt.
Ms. Harrington lifted her head and glared at her niece, whom she had reluctantly hired to work for the orphanage out of pity. She was beginning to regret her decision as she met Marian's pitiful brown eyes. "And why should I care about your opinion, Marian? Do I need to remind you that you are just a lowly maid here? Your thoughts hold no weight when it comes to the welfare of these orphans. That is my responsibility. Know your place and stay in it."
"No need to remind me since you've chosen to call me 'Maid Marian' every passing day," Marian bit back with a roll of her eyes. "Anyhow, you seem to have forgotten that I was the one who raised Danielle from the moment she was left at the orphanage doorstep as a helpless three-week-old baby. Unlike you, I have always had her best interests at heart. I openly care about her happiness and welfare, which is why I believe I should have a voice in this matter!" Marian's words were filled with heartfelt conviction. "And what about Danielle's choice, hmm? Doesn't she deserve a say in this? How can we be certain that this family is the right fit for her?"
With a sly chuckle, the older woman replied, "Well, well, well. Look who has the nerve to have a bite in her tone. But it seems that you, my dear niece, are the only one with concerns about my decision to place her with a loving family. Rest assured, dear. I have secured a loving home for the girl with none other than the King and his new Queen of the Kingdom of Aristo themselves. They have longed for a child of their own yet are unable to conceive. You, of all people, should know what that's like," she said with a sly smirk, knowing she had struck a nerve. "And as you are well aware, the Sheriff's greedy tax hikes have left this orphanage on the brink of ruin. The royal couple's generous offer of gold is enough to save this prestigious institution. So, you see, my dear niece, I do have the girl's best interests at heart. She will go from being a lowly orphan to living a life of royalty. And let's not forget, she is the youngest and most suitable candidate for this opportunity. Consider the matter settled." Ms. Harrington's tone showed no hesitation or regret as she stood from her chair, gathered her paperwork, and walked away from this unfortunate discussion with her maid of a niece.
Marian halted her aunt in her tracks as she attempted to walk away. "Aunt Harrington, you know this is not right. Using her as a pawn to benefit the orphanage's financial needs is not acceptable, and I will not remain silent about it!" Marian passionately exclaimed.
"Oh, Marian, what a pitiful attempt," Ms. Harrington snarled, a crooked grin spreading across her face. "Aha, I see. Of course, how did I not catch on sooner? You wish to be Danielle's mother, don't you? Simply because you've been her caretaker since she arrived on that doorstep. Do you think you have the right to claim her as your own, formally take on that responsibility, and be titled her mother? Am I correct?" she taunted, swooping closer to her niece and piercing her with a calculating gaze.
"I..." Marian stammered, her voice catching in her throat.
"Unfortunately for you, such a privilege will never be granted. It's worth noting that being an unwed woman with a questionable past, it is highly unlikely that you possess the qualities necessary to be a successful wife or mother. It's just not in your nature," Ms. Harrington stated, with a tone of condescension.
"I would be a far better mother and wife than you ever could!" Marian retorted; her voice filled with conviction.
The older woman's fury boiled inside her, causing her to lash out and strike her niece across the face. The younger woman recoiled, her hand flying to her cheek in incredulity as she gasped at the force of the blow.
"How dare you speak to me in such a disrespectful manner? Have you forgotten my position? I could easily destroy your entire newfound reputation, leaving you with nothing. You will be reduced to your true identity as a lowly harlot, serving tables in dingy taverns and selling-"
"Don't-"
"Then, I strongly suggest you leave the matter of the child's welfare up to me. As for you, attend to your duties as a maid and ensure that the child is impeccably dressed and prepared to greet the royal family within the next hour." Before exiting the chambers, she added, "Oh, and please ensure that she is not wearing those worn-out sneakers and that she presents herself as a young lady in one of those lovely dresses donated from the local chapel, rather than as a boy in ripped pants with stitched patches. I will not tolerate her embarrassing me or tarnishing the reputation of this orphanage."
As Ms. Harrington opened the chamber door, she was confronted by Mya, a preteen blonde orphan girl who seemed to have been listening in on their conversation. Mya's big blue eyes met Ms. Harrington's bitter brown ones.
"Can I help you, child?"
"Uh, I was just... uh-"
"Leave my presence, young lady, and scurry along with the other children this instant! Or perhaps a trip to the chokey might be more to your liking?"
Mya wasted no time scurrying away in the opposite direction.
As she stood alone in her aunt's study chamber, Marian gently brushed away a solitary tear that had escaped from her eye. With heaviness in her heart, she spun on her heels and made her way towards the girls' quarters.
🏰
"Robin of Locksley, is that you?" exclaimed a familiar voice that Robin hadn't heard in years. He looked up from assisting one of his young students in an archery lesson and met the gaze of the Princess, a long-time royal acquaintance. "Duchess?" he acknowledged; his voice filled with confusion.
As a young prince, Robin had the misfortune of being well-acquainted with the incessantly babbling Princess. With his father being the King of Sherwood, the Locksley clan were frequent attendees at lavish balls hosted by neighboring kingdoms, inevitably leading to Robin crossing paths with Duchess. Her golden locks, slim figure, and strong choice of perfume, coupled with her incessant babbling, never quite tickled his fancy. Robin would often try to steer clear of her or pawn her off onto one of his mates. Luckily, he was spared from any potential betrothal to her, which would have been a royal pain in his arse, to put it mildly.
"Hey, buddy, why don't you take some time to practice over there? I'll be back in a bit," Robin suggested, gesturing towards a nearby tree with a wooden target board attached to it. His young student eagerly nodded and scampered off.
"My, my, my, would you look at that! It's truly you, isn't it? And might I say, you're just as handsome as the last time I saw you," Duchess purred, her eyes lingering hungrily on his perfectly sculpted physique. Robin bit the inside of his cheek and struggled to resist the urge to roll his eyes. Instead, he cleared his throat, feeling a sense of discomfort reminiscent of his thirteen-year-old self. "Duchess—"
"Young man, it is customary to bow in the presence of the Queen of Aristo and greet her with proper respect," instructed one of the royal footmen.
"Oh, it's alright, Douglas. This is my old friend. No need for formalities. Besides, he's royalty as well. Prince Robin of Locksley from Sherwood Forest," Duchess explained.
"Your Highness, please forgive me," the footman humbly apologized to Robin.
Robin smirked and shook his head. "That's quite alright, no need for formalities," he said, echoing the woman's earlier words. "That life is far behind me." He leaned forward, curiosity evident in his tone. "So, Your Majesty, what brings you to Nottingham?" he asked with a dimpled smirk.
"Oh, stop that, Robin! We're old friends. No need to address me as such. However, as you can see, I am now a Queen, no longer a Princess," Duchess drawled with a mischievous twinkle in her eye, flaunting the dazzling rock on her finger in a futile attempt to ignite some envy in Robin. But Robin released the breath he didn't realize he was holding, relieved to no longer be on her list of potential suitors. "I's married now."
As if on cue, a short, stout, seasoned gentleman with a generous amount of silver in his hair emerged from the carriage, wearing an unmistakable long furry red cloak adorned with a golden jeweled crown. He steadied himself on his bedazzled cane as the footman guided him every step of the way. Robin mused to himself that the man wore a perpetually grouchy expression, or perhaps it could simply have been his default look.
After a bit of a tussle, the aged gentleman finally made his way to Duchess' side. His knees were shaking as he leaned on his trusty cane, shooting her a disapproving glance. However, she simply beamed and took his free hand, proudly introducing him as "King Thomas O'Malley, my husband."
Robin simply bowed his head as a sign of respect.
With a twinkle in her eye, she announced, "Anyway, I've heard so many great things about this here orphanage and your late mother, Queen Allison—God rest her soul. She truly loved the orphans as her own and transformed this here children's home into the prestigious institution it is today... We've also heard that things haven't been the same since she passed, like the sheriff's outlandishly increased taxes. It's not fair to these here poor orphan babies. The least my husband and I can do is honor your mother and save the orphanage." She took a deep breath, her eyes misty. "Robin, my husband and I have decided to take in one of the sweet little babies here and raise them as our own. We wish to give them a beautiful home in our castle. Isn't it lovely?" Duchess beamed with happiness, while her husband rolled his eyes at her joyful nature and gave Robin a look of disdain as if he were just a lowly peasant.
Robin's keen senses picked up on the elderly King's irritable attitude towards his young, perky wife, but he couldn't quite pinpoint what his problem was. One would think he would share the same joy she was expressing. Nevertheless, the selfless choice they were embarking on, giving an orphaned child a home, is an honorable one, and in the name of his dearly departed mum, it makes their decision that much more special.
"It is truly lovely, indeed," Robin said with a genuine smile.
Sure, Duchess may come off as a bit unhinged and chatty, but her heart is undeniably as vast as the ocean. Even though Robin had his own clever plans to foil the Sheriff's selfish plots and protect the orphanage, he was filled with immense gratitude to know that others were taking honorable measures to secure his mum's legacy.
"Always remember, my son, children are angels gifted to us from above; we must protect them. No child should ever be forsaken."
Robin was inspired, more than anything, in this moment.
He hoped to do the same someday...
The only hurdle standing in his way now was his unmarried status. Nevertheless, Robin remained optimistic that he would soon encounter the perfect maiden, one who shared his principles and lived by the code of honor and respect.
Eight years ago, he was convinced that he had found this special someone during their brief encounter, but alas, despite the unfortunate timing, he clung to a flicker of hope that maybe, just maybe, he would be reunited with... her.
"Why don't you enlighten this young man on the real reason for our presence here? You have consistently failed in your duties to bear me an heir. Despite your youth, you are unable to bear fruit, leading us to this unfortunate predicament. As my wife, your preliminary purpose is to bear children, yet you have failed to fulfill even this one duty!" The old King snapped at his wife with an unapologetic tone. "Now, young man, if you would kindly guide us to Director Harrington, I would-"
"Your Majesties, welcome!" Ms. Harrington's unmistakable voice rang out from the double doors of the orphanage, interrupting King O'Malley. "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Ms. Harrington, the director of this establishment. I understand you have already been acquainted with Robin, who instructs the young ones in the art of archery and is the son of our departed Queen Allison – may her soul rest in peace. Please, do come inside. Cogsworth will assist you with your coats," she said with a forced smile and a graceful curtsy. "It is a great privilege to host esteemed guests such as yourselves."
As the old King and Duchess made their way into the orphanage alongside Ms. Harrington, a cunning grin couldn't escape Robin's keen observation. A sense of unease washed over the archer as he witnessed this sudden turn of events. And the way that bastard old King treated Duchess only added fuel to the fire.
Witnessing Duchess's eyes transition from pure joy to emptiness was heart-wrenching for Robin. Regardless of their past, the Queen he once knew as a chatty, joyful Princess didn't deserve to be treated like that. No woman should ever feel obligated to bear children or be treated as mere property by their husbands. It was a disgrace, and it made Robin's blood boil.
If the King could treat his own wife in such a manner, Robin shuddered to think of how he would treat their soon-to-be child. He had to uncover the truth behind this arrangement before an innocent child got hurt. He would not tolerate this behavior. His late mother would surely have expected nothing less from him.
🩵
"Do I have to do this? What if they don't like me?"
"Honey, don't say that. You're impossible to dislike," said the brunette maid as she put the final touches on the young girl's halo braid, letting her natural curls cascade down her back.
"Ms. Harrington, Chantelle and her two idiot followers would beg to differ," the girl replied, a hint of sarcasm in her voice.
"Two things: one, Ms. Harrington dislikes everyone, and two, you've been hanging out with Mya a bit too much, I see," the brunette maid scrunched her nose and chuckled, playfully teasing the young girl.
The young girl simply rolled her eyes.
"Hey, I saw that," the brunette maid said with a playful smirk.
"What? How?" the young girl asked, her surprise evident as she turned to the brunette maid sitting behind her.
"I know you so well, Danielle, you forget that sometimes," Marian said with a playful smile as she finished styling the girl's halo braid. She then handed her a mirror and asked, "How do you like it? I think you look beautiful."
As Danielle's eyes met her own reflection, the edges of her lips curled into a genuine smile, with dimples clearly visible. In the past, she had often fibbed to spare the maid's feelings, but this time, her hair truly looked beautiful. It boosted her self-confidence and made her feel like a... pretty little flower. "I love it. Thank you, Marian," she exclaimed before turning around and catching the maid off guard as she jumped into her embrace with pure happiness.
Marian's heart filled with warmth at the sudden embrace of the usually tough girl. Despite her tough exterior, Danielle has always had a gentle and sweet nature that reminded Marian of a honeycomb—protective on the outside but filled with sweetness on the inside. It was rare for Danielle to show her softer side, making moments like this all the more special for Marian. 'She's growing up so fast,' Marian thought to herself while returning the embrace with equal warmth and affection, not wanting to let go of the child, and planted a loving kiss on the crown of her head. "You're welcome, my sweet honeybee."
After their brief moment of holding each other, the air was filled with faint sniffles and gentle tremors—an unexpected symphony that did not come from Marian. It was rare for her to witness or hear the child's tears.
The last time Marian could remember Danielle crying was during her mischievous toddler days. However, this time, her tears held a deeper meaning. They weren't just because she couldn't have her favorite cinnamon apple cookies or Mrs. Potts' famous apple pie before dinner.
These tears were a heartbreaking reminder that she may soon be torn away from the only home she's ever known and entrusted into the hands of unfamiliar faces.
"I don't want to leave. I want to stay here with you and... and Robin... and all my friends. Why do I have to go? Did I do something wrong? Is it 'cause I put a lizard in Ms. Harrington's tea? I won't prank anybody anymore, honest. I swear I'll be good," the girl pleaded, her voice shaking with tears and sniffles.
The brunette woman dared not to cry and maintained a steady tone in her voice. "No, honey, you didn't do anything wrong. I promise this is not your fault or because of your silly pranks," she said, offering a comforting smile while gently brushing away the child's tears with her thumb. Danielle looked up at her with big, teary hazelnut eyes, a puffy nose, and tear-stained cheeks.
Marian was utterly disgusted by her aunt's cold and calculated decision to hand Danielle over to the Royal family like a mere pawn on a chessboard. It made her stomach churn and her heart ache. Despite the temptation to spill the whole truth, Marian couldn't bear to cause Danielle any more distress. She could only hope that her choice wouldn't haunt her with regret.
With a big inhale, Marian centered herself, holding the young girl's hands tightly, trying to find the right words. "Danielle," she began, "every family is unique, and some may not be able to have children of their own..." she swallowed thickly, holding back the tears that were threatening to spill. "But they find other ways to build their family by embracing a child who may not share their bloodline but is loved and cherished just the same," she smiled, tenderly brushing a stray curl behind the girl's ear. "And guess what? They specifically chose you to be a part of their family. You will-"
"But they don't even know me!" Danielle pouted, her voice full of frustration. "Why can't I be the one to choose? If I could pick my own guardian, I... I... I'd want you," she declared, standing up in protest. "You understand me better than anyone else here... First Lucas... now it's my turn? It feels like we're all being sent away, one by one. It's just not fair!" she exclaimed, wiping her tears away with the back of her hand.
With great effort, Marian tried to stifle her tears, but one still managed to escape. Her heart was racing so fast, she was sure it would burst out of her chest. When Danielle expressed her desire for Marian to be her guardian, it meant more to her than she could put into words.
The maid longed to take Danielle in as her own, but she knew it wasn't possible. She looked at Danielle with tear-filled eyes and whispered, "Believe me, I wish it were that simple, honey... but it's not."
"Why can't it be?"
"Because Danielle... I... I'm not married... I-
"So, get a husband," the eight-year-old said with a shrug, as if finding the perfect suitor was the easiest thing in town.
'And she's back,' Marian mused with a snort before adding, "I can't simply snap my fingers and have the perfect gentleman at my fingertips. It's not that simple, honey."
"I see the way Robin looks at you. He loves you, and you love him too."
"And how would you know this?" Marian bit the inside of her cheek and asked, raising an eyebrow.
Danielle gave her a knowing look, raising her eyebrow. "Because I know. Plus, you said that when you love someone, when it happens, it happens like that," she said, snapping her fingers. "So, I was right. You do love him, right?" She playfully bounced her eyebrows.
With a mischievous glint in her eye, Marian playfully surprised the young girl by launching into a tickle attack.
"Okay, okay, okay," Danielle exclaimed, struggling to catch her breath as she burst into a fit of giggles.
"When did you become so wise, hmm?" Marian asked with a smirk, pausing the tickle attack to look at the young girl she had raised since she was just three weeks old. "Because of you! And Maya too. I suppose. She knows a lot," replied the young girl with a shrug.
"Ah, indeed she does," Marian chuckled, her head shaking in amusement at the thought of Danielle's mischievous preteen best friend.
A brief hush fell upon the room before the maid spoke up in her gentle, maternal tone. "Hey, I know you don't want to do this, but rest assured that I will stand by your side throughout this journey. And who knows, perhaps I'll have the opportunity to accompany you to your grand palace as your loyal handmaiden," she said, smirking. "After all, you'll soon be a princess," she lightly nudged the girl's shoulder with her own in a playful manner.
Danielle scrunched up her face in disgust and exclaimed, "Ugh, I'd rather eat dirt," while rolling her eyes.
Marian chuckled and playfully took Danielle's hand. "Come on, my little dirt-loving princess. We'd better hurry downstairs before Ms. Harrington scolds me for making you late for your grand debut."
Danielle hesitantly took hold of Marian's hand. "Ugh, I suppose, but if they end up being total freak shows, you owe me a piece of Mrs. Potts's famous apple pie," she stated, flashing Marian a cute, dimpled smile that reminded her of Robin. "Goodness, she's spent too much time with him. They'll both be the death of me," Marian mused silently.
"Deal."
🕯️
"Move, Robin!"
As the young woman attempted to pass him, the blonde man abruptly halted her, his voice filled with determination as he stated, "I can't let you do this, Marian."
"Why? Weren't we in the same room? Did you miss the part where that insane woman screamed nonsense in Danielle's face? It was entirely unforgivable, and you know it! Now, move. She'll regret every single word she just spat towards Danielle. I should have done something in that moment, but I just stood there like an idiot!"
Marian's voice was filled with frustration as she tried to push past Robin, her teeth clenched. "No one should ever mistreat a child like that. She's only eight, for goodness' sake. I've put up with that woman's ridicule for far too long. She can say whatever she wants to me, scream at me all she wants. I can take it. But seeing her treat Danielle the way she once treated me my entire life, like I was nothing, it makes me sick to my stomach. She can humiliate and degrade me all she wants, but I refuse to allow her to do the same to Danielle. That's where I draw the line. I've had enough! She needs to face the consequences of her sick and demented actions! And if I end up losing my job because of it, then so be it!"
Marian seethed with fury, her determination giving her the strength to break free from Robin's grasp. But he quickly caught her wrist, forcing her to turn around and face him.
"What about Ellie, Marian? She sees you as a maternal figure, and once you leave, who will be there for her? None of the other maids treat her with the same care as you do. She needs you, Mar'. I understand your anger over this dreadful situation, and it is indeed justified! I share your sentiments. No child should ever have to endure such severe reprimand and animosity for something beyond their control. Rest assured, Harrington will face dire consequences for her actions, but we mustn't play into her hands. We cannot give her the satisfaction she seeks. Think of Ellie, Mar'. She needs you... I-"
"She was so broken, Robin," the brunette choked out, tears streaming down her face. "The pain behind her eyes... That look on her face... it... I should have protected her!" Marian's voice cracked with emotion. "I should have stood up for her! And I shouldn't have spared her from the truth... I... I just-"
"Come here," Robin gently urged, pulling the trembling woman closer as she wept in his arms. His jaw tightened with rage as he tried to make sense of the terrible situation that had just occurred. He was not only angry at the circumstances but also at himself for not seeing through Ms. Harrington's deceitful intentions. Despite his frustration and protectiveness, Robin couldn't help but empathize with Marian's determined resilience... he couldn't shake the feeling that he had let the young girl down too... He may not be her Papa, but he felt like one in this moment. He felt as though he were a lion who had failed to protect his cub.
From the moment she turned two, Robin could see the spark of fiery determination in Danielle. She was a child who possessed a fierce soul and a clear sense of what she wanted, but that's just it—she was still just a child. She was still vulnerable to the vile words hurled at her by Ms. Harrington. Children can only endure so much before they break, and Robin knew this all too well.
Though he may not have been an orphan, he empathized with the ache Danielle was feeling, which may be even greater than that of a child raised as a prince with both a mother and father. Until, of course, his mother was ripped away before his very eyes. A tear escaped from his eye at the memory, and for Danielle, the little girl whom he had the privilege to watch grow since she was a tiny eight-week-old babe.
Little did they know, the orphan girl was already running away. She had to escape.
🌳🌲
She runs, trying to leave the hurt and embarrassment behind, desperate for some distance. Her lucky bow and arrows are slung over her shoulder, and her bouncy, sun-kissed curls dance in the breeze. Her feet are protected by her favorite black and white high-top sneakers that Ms. Harrington despises. She doesn't like wearing dresses, but Marian insisted that she wear this light blue one for the inevitable encounter with the stupid royals. But she couldn't bring herself to take it off... It's the first time she feels like a pretty flower in a dress, and she doesn't want to leave that feeling behind. So, there she is, running until she can't go any further.
(Cunning voice of King O'Malley)
"She's not what we were expecting?"
She runs, with small cries escaping her lips, but the tears don't dare fall down her cheeks.
(Cunning voice of King O'Malley)
"We were expecting a baby, and this is a full-grown child?!"
She runs, oblivious to her destination.
(Cunning voice of King O'Malley)
"It appears that our precious time has been squandered, Duchess. Release that child's hand, for we must depart from this orphanage immediately, as they will not be compensated for their efforts to preserve the institution. It appears that we have been deceived."
She runs, deep into the forest.
(Cunning voice of Ms. Harrington)
"You've cost this prestigious orphanage everything, you worthless little brat!"
She runs, passing towering forest trees.
(Cunning voice of Ms. Harrington)
"You'll amount to nothing in this life! Your own birth mother or father didn't even want you. That should have been my first thought before I pawned you off to the O'Malley's. It's no surprise they turned you down."
She runs, until the ache in her chest becomes too much to bear. Coming to a halt, she squeezes her eyes shut, allowing all the emotions she's been holding back to pour out in a cathartic release. Unapologetically, she lets the tears flow as the voices and memories in her mind refuse to be silenced.
(Cunning voice of Ms. Harrington)
"Maybe if you learned to dress and carry yourself like a proper young lady, this wouldn't have happened! You're a disgrace to this orphanage and have given this institution a bad name."
As she furiously wiped the tears from her cheeks and gasped for air, she slowly opened her eyes to find a sparkling river flowing just inches away from her toes.
(Cunning voice of Ms. Harrington)
"You are nothing, and you will always be a pitiful orphan girl."
She plopped her hands on her knees and hunched over, trying to catch her breath. She peered at her reflection in the river, finally able to hear her own thoughts as she watched herself staring back at her in the shimmering water.
"I never even wanted those royals to be my guardians anyway. Why would I even want an old grouch as a father?" thought Danielle. "The Queen was nice, but her choice of perfume made my head feel dizzy. And living in a big castle with people waiting on me hand and foot is just plain silly. I'd much rather live in the forest, where I can be free and wear my sneakers instead of those poofy dresses." She sniffled, feeling the weight of her rejection and pain. The cruel words stung and made her heart ache even more. "Maybe Ms. Harrington was right. Maybe I really am just nothing. No one wants a little girl like me. I don't fit in with princesses and tea parties. Maybe that's why Ms. Harrington was so quick to send me away. Turns out she just wanted the amount of gold the royals were willing to offer before the mean Sheriff destroyed the orphanage," she mulled, wiping her nose with the back of her hand.
The eight-year-old girl couldn't tear her eyes away from her reflection in the river, feeling a growing sense of dissatisfaction with the image staring back at her. Then, the voice of Chantelle, the teenage know-it-all who had belittled her since she was five, flooded her mind, further deepening her self-doubt.
(Cruel voice of Chantelle)
"Ms. Harrington is right; no one wants a little girl like her. She's always running, flipping around, and getting dirty. It's embarrassing. And can we talk about her name? Like, who would name their child after a queen? What a joke. She doesn't even deserve such a royal name. This orphanage is supposed to have class, and she's just ruining that image."
The giggles of Chantelle's two teenage followers, Stacey, and Morgana, echoed in Danielle's thoughts, and the persistent whispers of 'you're nothing,' stung her ears.
The ache in her chest began to transform into a bubbling rage, overcoming her with fiery anger she had never experienced before. It built up inside her, demanding release. She couldn't handle it any longer. 'I won't go back,' she thought determinedly... She wouldn't.
"I HATE YOU!" the eight-year-old screamed at her reflection in the water. She scrunched up her face and mustered all her strength to pick up a nearby rock. It was almost as big as her little hand and quite heavy, but she managed to angrily hurl it as far as she could into the river, surprising herself with her own strength.
Danielle Allison Mills was stunned.
Her breath caught in her throat. The force she had unleashed had far exceeded her expectations, causing her eyes to widen in bewilderment.
A deafening splash echoed through the air, making her heart race in her chest. The water surged and churned, its powerful waves crashing against the river's banks.
When she peered down at her hands, she couldn't believe what she saw—a soft, rose-colored glow emanated from her palms. "Magic," she thought, her mouth hanging open in utter disbelief.
"This is impossible!" she whispered, her voice trembling with shock.
Suddenly,
Danielle spun around at the sound of a noise behind her. She found a growling wolf pup staring right at her.
Instinctively, she held up her hands in defense, and her mysterious magic shot out toward the young wolf.
The sheer power of her magic was enough to propel Danielle through the air and into a nearby willow tree, causing her to lose consciousness.
🐺
"Dani!"
The young girl slowly stirred, letting out soft whimpers as she returned to consciousness. Gradually fluttering her eyelids, she gazed at the young boy standing before her.
"Lucas?" she groaned.
"Yeah, it's me."
Danielle slowly got up from the ground, gently rubbing the back of her head and letting out a little groan as she tried to sit up. The boy kindly reached out and grabbed her hand, helping her sit up. Even though she was feeling a little discomfort, she still managed to give her old friend a small smile.
Then, an onslaught of memories hit her, reminding her of the events that had led her to her current state: the rock, the powerful force, the explosive water, the wolf, and the magic... She has magic.
"Stay back. I don't want to hurt you," Danielle said with a worried tone, her voice trembling with caution, as she scooted closer to the tree, putting some distance between herself and her friend.
Lucas gave the girl a slight smirk and pointed at the open wound on his right knee, which was visibly bleeding. "Too late," he said, his voice tinged with a mix of amusement and pain.
Danielle's eyes grew wide with fear when she saw the deep wound on her friend's knee. 'I did that?' she thought frantically. Then, gazing down at her own hands, she noticed that the bright pink glow was... gone.
"I- I, wait... y-you were the wolf?!"
Lucas flashed Danielle a shy smile, struggling to find the right words, yet managed to nod in confirmation.
"But... but that's impossible."
"Says the one who just blasted magic in my direction."
Lucas regretted his words the moment he saw Danielle wince and drawback in shame at her actions.
"I- I didn't mean to. I- I didn't know I had magic," Danielle whimpered, hugging her knees to her chest, her eyes brimming with tears.
The preteen plopped down next to his friend by the willow, being careful not to aggravate his hurt knee. "If it makes you feel any better, I didn't know I was a wolf until I left the orphanage. My Papa is a wolf, and my Mama is human, so I'm not fully a wolf. But my Papa has been showing me how to control my abilities, and it's pretty cool, although it can be scary at times too."
"Were those people who came to take you away your true Mama and Papa, the day you left the orphanage?" Danielle's tone was filled with curiosity as she inquired about Lucas's confession.
Lucas eagerly nodded in agreement. "Yeah, they told me that a fairy had taken me away from them because my grandmother had made a deal with her. She didn't like that I was part wolf... But luckily, my Mama and Papa found me, and we are now living in the forest as a family," he explained, with a sense of pride beaming across his face.
Danielle hugged her knees tightly as a single tear escaped her eye, which she quickly wiped away. Despite feeling genuinely happy for her best friend, she couldn't help but feel a twinge of envy towards Lucas as he was reunited with his true family. She couldn't help but wish that one day, she too would have the same luck and be reunited with her own Mama and Papa.
Sniffling, Danielle shook her head and said in a sweet voice, "I'm really happy for you, Lucas! Honestly, if anyone deserves to have a family, it's you. You've always been so nice to me... you and Mya. Even though Marian always teases me about how you didn't want me when she and you found me on the doorstep of the orphanage," she giggled at the tale. Marian never fails to bring it up.
Lucas snickered and said, "Yeah, I remember I said, 'I don't want it.' I would've rather had a toy truck, but you didn't turn out so bad after all, except when you were two and always took my toys." He laughed, and Danielle shook her head, giggling. "But thank you, Dani. I do miss you guys."
"We miss you too," Danielle spoke softly, forcing a small smile. "I'm so sorry about your knee."
"It's okay; I get cuts and bruises all the time," Lucas said confidently. "I'm sure Mama can find a way to fix it when I get home."
"What's that like? You know, having a real home with a mama and papa?"
"Umm, it's quite nice. I love spending time with them. They are everything I could have ever hoped for in a Mama and Papa, and...my mama gives the best hugs."
"That's lovely," Danielle said with a small smile. Then, she shrugged and continued, "Some royals came to the orphanage today. They almost took me into their family, but they decided against it since I wasn't a... a... baby... Then, Ms. Harrington got really mad at me and said a lot of mean and hurtful things. It was just too much, so I ran away. I had to get away from that place... Sometimes I wish I were as lucky as you, you know? Hoping my wishes would come true, and my true Mama and Papa would find me and rescue me, just like yours did. But I know that's impossible for me. Nothing like that will ever happen to me. I'll always just be an orphan girl, like Ms. Harrington says. Oh yeah, and Chantelle too," Danielle said with a roll of her eyes.
"You're right, Dani. I know I've been pretty lucky. I mean, not every kid in that orphanage will have the same luck as me. But... you can't blame yourself for that. It's not your fault. Life can be really unfair sometimes, but you deserve love and happiness with a family too, just like anyone else. Your journey may be different, but that doesn't mean great things can't happen for you too. Hang in there, Dani bee," Lucas said with genuine reassurance to his best friend, playfully nudging her shoulder.
"I hate myself."
"Don't say that!"
"Why? If my true mother and father didn't want me, they must hate me too! How can I like myself when they didn't?" Danielle cried, her voice shaking with anger as she rose to her feet.
Lucas hesitated, wanting to speak up against Danielle's words, but his eyes were drawn to the glowing magic forming in her palms once more. "Uhm, Dani..."
"What!" she yelled, her eyes growing wider with fury. She then glanced down at her palms, and the rosy hue returned once again. "Oh no."
"That's not exactly true."
A voice from behind Danielle was heard, instantly catching Luca's attention. His eyes widened in surprise as he saw a figure flying in the air behind her. It was a fairy, and he couldn't help but feel a sense of unease, remembering the cautionary tale his parents had told him about fairies stealing babies.
Danielle swiftly turned around; her movements agile as she quickly forgot about the magic tingling in her palms. Instead, she reached for her lucky bow slung around her shoulder and retrieved an arrow from behind her back. She aimed the arrow at the glowing figure flying mid-air. The sight of it bewildered her as she had never encountered anything like it before.
"Who are you?" Danielle demanded, her voice firm as she kept her arrow trained on the mysterious glowing figure. Her heart raced with a mix of curiosity and caution.
The fairy smirked and raised her hands in a defensive gesture. "I mean no harm. I'm only here to help, or at least try to," she said, her voice carrying a hint of sincerity. With a graceful transformation, she shifted into her human form, shaking her shoulders to reveal her true nature. Danielle's grip on the bow loosened slightly, intrigued by the fairy's unexpected appearance and her claim of good intentions.
The fairy's smile brightened, her voice soft and welcoming as she introduced herself, "Hello, my name is Tinkerbell." Her eyes sparkled with a hint of enchantment, captivating Danielle's attention.
Lucas, on the other hand, was beyond stunned by the fairy's sincerity. He had been told that fairies were evil creatures. He couldn't even gather his thoughts or contemplate shifting into his wolf form for protection. He simply remained rooted by the Willow, completely astounded.
"How do we know we can trust you?" Danielle asked, her voice tinged with doubt, as she recalled Luca's tale about his grandmother making a deal with a fairy who had stolen him from his family. She gripped her bow and arrow a bit tighter, her eyes focused as she aimed right between Tinkerbell's eyes.
"Because I know the truth... Firstly, I want you to know that your mother and father never abandoned you, and they always loved you deeply. Secondly, the discovery of your magical abilities is not a mere coincidence, as both sides of your family have a strong history of magic within their bloodlines."
The young girl's bow and arrow tumbled from her grasp, her eyes growing wide in surprise at Tinkerbell's unexpected confession. "H- How do you know this?" Danielle stammered; her voice filled with apprehension.
"I have made it my mission to protect you and your mother ever since I discovered your existence. Sadly, it seems that I have not been successful thus far," the apprentice fairy spoke with a remorseful expression. "But I am determined to continue until I can reunite you with her."
Danielle's eyes sparkled with a glimmer of hope. "You'd really do that for me?" she asked.
"Sure, I will! I made this commitment to myself eight years ago, and I intend to keep it."
The young orphan girl was uncertain about the fairy's presence at first, but as she listened to the genuine tone in the fairy's words, she could sense the sincerity behind them. Overcome with emotion, she threw her arms around the fairy in a tight embrace. Tinkerbell, taken aback by the unexpected gesture, hesitated before reciprocating the hug and basking in the warmth radiating from the little girl. Tinkerbell didn't know how to be a fairy godmother yet, but she felt as though she was Danielle's, if only for a moment.
With a small voice filled with curiosity, Danielle lifted her head and gazed into the fairy's eyes, unable to resist asking once more, just to be certain, "Are you really telling the truth?"
"I promise," the fairy replied, her voice gentle and reassuring.
"Thank you, Tinkerbell."
"You can call me Tink," Tinkerbell said with a playful wink. "Now, I can't say it will be easy, because it won't."
Danielle stepped back from Tinkerbell's embrace and inquired, "What do you mean?"
"You see, not all fairies are benevolent," Tinkerbell clarified. "As your friend mentioned, you were also taken from your mother by a fairy with questionable intentions. Fortunately, I intervened and brought you to safety at the orphanage."
"Well, shit-talking mushrooms."
Tinkerbell's eyes widened at the young girl's choice of words but she couldn't help but chuckle slightly.
"Wait, so you're saying that the same fairy took us both away from our families?" Lucas inquired, finally finding his voice after the shock he had felt previously.
"I'm afraid so," Tinkerbell said with a sympathetic smile, her eyes widening at the sight of the blonde boy's injured knee. "Oh dear, that looks much worse than I thought. Allow me to assist you," she offered as she raised her enchanted wand toward the battered wound. Emerald sparkles danced at the tip of the wand as the magic began to flow, until it suddenly stopped.
Tinkerbell had a better idea. Although she was still an apprentice fairy, she had learned a great deal about healing magic in her lessons. So, she thought, why not teach Danielle?
"Actually, I would like you to heal him," Tinkerbell said, pointing her wand at the young girl.
"Me?"
Tinkerbell nodded in response.
"You've got to be kidding me, lady, or fairy. I... I just found out about this magic thing. There is no way I will be able to heal him. You do it," Danielle protested, her voice filled with uncertainty and doubt.
"Sure, you can! I believe in you, and I'm here to guide you. Together, we can unlock the healing magic within you," Tinkerbell reassured Danielle, her voice filled with encouragement.
"Yeah... um, you know what, Tink? If I may call you Tink. Um, I think you should be the one to heal me instead. I mean, what if Dani turns me into a toad or something and can't change me back? I don't know... I don't want to take any chances," Lucas spoke up, his tone filled with concern.
"Well, you can transform yourself into a wolf, can't you? Change yourself back," Danielle retorted, rolling her eyes.
"It's not as simple as you think, Dani! Just like it's not easy for you to use magic or control it, for that matter," Lucas bit back, clearly annoyed by his friend.
Danielle rolled her eyes and scoffed, saying, "Whatever." Then she looked at Tink with timid, big hazelnut eyes and admitted, "He is right, though. I can't control this magic thing. There is no way I can do it. It's impossible."
"You don't believe that Danielle. You're more powerful than you think," Tinkerbell said, with a bright smile.
"Hey, how do you... oh right, you've known me since my existence, whatever that means... Of course, you know my name."
"Yes, I do," Tinkerbell confirmed with a smile, stepping closer and delicately taking hold of Danielle's wrist. She remembered this personalized gold-plated bracelet with the name 'Danielle Allison Mills' beautifully etched into it, given to her by her grandfather, Henry Mills. Tinkerbell remembered being a fairy on the wall when the gift was given to her as a tiny newborn babe.
"Danielle Allison Mills, you can do this. All you have to do is follow my lead and remember anything is possible if you just believe!" Tinkerbell encouraged, offering her hand.
The hesitant young girl bravely reached out and grasped Tink's hand, finally mustering the courage to exclaim, "Okay!"
Tinkerbell's eyes sparkled as she said, "Okay, now let's first help Lucas settle against the tree, and then we can begin."
✨
After Lucas was comfortably positioned against the Willow, Tinkerbell began guiding Danielle through the initial steps of harnessing healing magic. "Now, Danielle, I would like you to take some deep breaths with me and gently close your eyes. Can you do that for me, love?"
The child's heart fluttered with nerves as she looked up at Lucas's worried expression. Despite their playful banter, he was one of her best friends, and she was determined to make this go right. With a gentle nudge from the fairy, she did as she was told. Then she heard the fairy say, "Okay, Danielle, now I want you to remember all the times when you felt the happiest in your life."
Despite being raised as an orphan at the 'Children's Home of the Angels,' Danielle's happiest memories did not begin there. Instead, her mind was flooded with unexpected memories of her infancy, hearing a woman's gentle melody lulling her to sleep. This was the same woman from her recent dreams, whose face she could not recollect, but whose voice, silky dark hair, and tender touch she could vividly remember.
(Woman singing)
I will hold you safe and warm. As horses prance through a silver storm. Figures dancing gracefully across your memory. Holding you, Close to me, hoping to be your protector, shielding you with my heart once upon a December.
The next memory she hears is a man's voice saying,
"Shh, it's okay, Danielle. The river will protect you. I wish I could have done more, but I couldn't, and for that, I am sorry. But know and remember, Mama and Daddy will always love you."
The next set of memories that flood her mind are of a loving woman who had cared for her since she was left at the doorstep of the orphanage, and the man who has been her protector since she was just an eight-week-old fussy baby. It was Marian and Robin, with their beaming smiles, who were there to witness her first word, 'Bin,' as she struggled to pronounce 'Robin,' and her first steps at 11 months old. Seeing the proud, goofy expressions on their faces made her giggle aloud.
The following memories were of her cherished friends: the day she first bonded with Mya and Lucas, who had always been there for her. She vividly remembered the thrill of hitting her target with her first bow and arrow at the tender age of four.
Instantly, something changed within Danielle.
In this moment, she feels alive, unstoppable, and invincible, as if no challenge is too great for her to conquer. Her fearlessness radiates from within, and she has nothing but love for herself. She can feel the magic coursing through her fingertips; she feels empowered. She knows she truly can achieve anything she sets her mind to if she just believes.
Tinkerbell beamed with pride as she watched the determined eight-year-old girl in front of her. She knew that once the girl fully embraced her power, she would be unstoppable. "You're doing it, Danielle! Now, focus your mind on those happy memories and hover your hands over Luca's knee."
Danielle obediently did as she was told, and in an instant, a radiant, rosy-colored beam of light emanated from her palms, unleashing powerful healing magic that flowed through Lucas's injured knee. As the girl opened her eyes, she was relieved to see her friend's knee had stopped bleeding, and his skin was completely restored, as if the injury had never occurred.
"I did it!" Danielle whispered to herself.
"Well, shit-talking mushrooms... you did," Lucas gasped in shock.
"You can clearly see the source of my foul language," Danielle chuckled, flashing a bright, dimpled smile as she glanced at the fairy.
The blonde fairy couldn't help but laugh and shake her head, clearly amused. "I can see that. So, how do you feel?"
"Invincible!" Danielle exclaimed, beaming with confidence. "Will you continue to teach me how to use my magic?" she asked the fairy, her big hazelnut eyes filled with innocent sparkle.
"I'd be happy to! It is truly remarkable! It's a rare gift to possess the ability to conjure healing magic through the power of your happiest thoughts. Such a gift is bestowed upon the purest of souls, and your mastery of light magic at your age is truly impressive. I'm very proud of you, Danielle."
Danielle beamed a bright, dimpled smile at her new friend, Tink, and said with a smirk, "Cool! And please, call me Dani."
Suddenly,
A menacing growl pierced the air, causing Tinkerbell and Danielle to instinctively tense up and turn towards the source: a massive wolf that loomed before them, its piercing gaze fixed upon them.
Lucas swiftly stood up and spoke, "Oh, shi- I mean, uh... hey, Papa. Calm down. This is my friend Dani from the orphanage, and Tink. We just met her. They mean no harm."
The massive wolf, clearly Lucas's father, persisted in snarling and barking at Tinkerbell.
"Oh, right. You two had better go. My Papa is not fond of fairies or witches. He can smell them from a mile away."
"Witches? I'm not a witch! Do I look like I'm old or have a long, pointy nose and warts to you?" Danielle huffed with a dismissive eye roll.
"Not all witches look like that, Dani. You have magic and being human means you're a witch."
"Whatever, tell your wolfie father to calm down. Sure, I gave you a slight boo-boo, but I healed you. The least he can do is thank me."
Lucas's father started to growl and bark louder, startling Danielle and Tinkerbell. "I think we should go. Give me your hand, Dani, and hold on tight. I'll take you back to the children's home."
"Okay, fine," Danielle said, but not before playfully jabbing Lucas in the chest. "But let's not forget about our bet. I won fair and square in our last game of tag, Wolfie boy." With a mischievous smile, she added, "So, you owe me." She then ran over to Tinkerbell, took her hand, and flashed her a playful smile before declaring, "Let's get out of here before we become wolf dinner!" And with a puff of emerald smoke, the two of them vanished into thin air.
🧚
"Whoa... So that's how teleportation feels?" Danielle asked, feeling a little dizzy.
"Indeed," Tinkerbell nodded with a chuckle.
"Yeah, you definitely gotta warn me next time," Danielle said, trying to regain her balance.
Tinkerbell chuckled and said, "As you wish."
"So, I guess..." Danielle chimed, her bright eyes lighting up as she scooped up her bow and quiver of arrows and draped them over her shoulder. "So, is this really goodbye? When will I get to see you again? When can we continue magic lessons? I can't wait to feel that magical feeling again. And what about..." Danielle's hopeful words were cut short by the fairy.
"Whoa there, Dani, take deep breaths," Tinkerbell said, placing her hands on the girl's shoulders to calm her rambling excitement.
"Sorry... it's just... it feels good to know that my Mama and Daddy didn't give me away and to know that I get my magic from them. It makes me angry to know that I was taken from them, though. Why would that stupid fairy do that?"
"I'm not quite sure. I'm still trying to figure that out myself," Tinkerbell replied. "But trust me, I'm going to do what I can to reunite you with your mother. However, Danielle, there is something you must know about your father... he is—"
Suddenly, rustling was heard through the forest trees, startling Tinkerbell mid-sentence.
"You know what? It's getting late. I don't want to keep you—" Tinkerbell began to say, but Danielle interrupted.
"What happened to my father—"
"I promise to tell you, but it would be unwise to do so out in the open like this. Who knows who might be listening within the trees," Tinkerbell carefully stated. "You possess great power, Dani, and there is a prophecy surrounding you and your abilities. I am eager to share all of this with you, but the present moment is not suitable. We must arrange to meet in a sennight. Although, I'm not sure where—"
"The stables," Danielle interrupted again.
"Oh, the irony," Tinkerbell remarked.
Danielle looked at the blonde fairy in confusion.
"You'll understand later, but the stables work fine. Let's plan to meet at daybreak, just as the sun begins to rise. Deal?" Tinkerbell proposed.
"You ain't got nothin' to worry about. I never break my promises. Deal!" the curly-haired young girl said, shaking the fairy's outstretched hand.
"That's good to know. Very well, meet me at the stables at daybreak in seven days' time, and I will explain everything."
Before Tinkerbell shrank into her fairy form, Danielle couldn't resist one last embrace. "Thank you, Tink. You reminded me of who I truly am," she exclaimed, beaming up at the blonde fairy. "I can't wait to see you again!"
Tinkerbell fought back her tears and gently kissed the top of Danielle's head, whispering, "Me too. Now, go along. I'll see you soon. And remember, Danielle, you must keep me and your magic a secret. It's vital."
Hesitating, Danielle nervously nibbled on her bottom lip. She couldn't risk confiding in anyone about her magical powers - they would surely label her a freak or a witch, just like Lucas had. Despite her desire to confide in her best friend, Mya, she knew she had to keep her abilities hidden.
"I promise," Danielle assured Tinkerbell.
Tinkerbell gave a reassuring nod and spoke softly, "I want to make sure you enter the building safely, so go on now," gently guiding the girl with a nudge.
"Hey, I'm eight, not four," Danielle protested with a cute pout, looking like her mother Regina. Tinkerbell thought, biting back a chuckle.
"I understand, but Dani, remember what I told you about—"
"Oh, right, okay, okay. I get it. You know, I really can't wait until I get used to this magic thing. Then I can do that poof thing you did and poof myself to my bed," Danielle said before running off to the double doors of the orphanage and waving goodbye to the fairy... her new friend.
As soon as Danielle was out of sight, Tinkerbell breathed a sigh of relief and turned back, ready to transform into her fairy self. But before she could begin, a sudden greeting interrupted her.
"Hello, Green."
As Tinkerbell tried to make sense of the sudden appearance of the brunette fairy, Blue swiftly blew a cloud of poppies in her face. The strong scent overwhelmed her, causing her to lose consciousness and collapse to the ground.
Blue loomed over the unconscious blonde fairy. "Did you really think you could outsmart me, Green? Think again, foolish little fairy," she taunted. With a crooked grin, she transformed into her human form and approached the fairy's body. "I have just the thing for you. How about a forgetting spell?" Blue cackled as she raised the Black fairy's wand and extracted every memory of the young Queen and her bratty daughter from the green fairy's mind. She wasn't going to let anyone ruin her plans. With a flick of her wand, lightning struck the ground, adding to the ominous atmosphere. Then, with a sinister gleam in her eye, she hovered the wand over Tinkerbell's body, causing her to vanish into thin air. "Back to your tulip you go, little fairy," Blue sneered as she sent Tinkerbell away. "Now, it's time to make a deal with the Dark One." And with that, she disappeared in a cloud of azure smoke, leaving behind a trail of destruction.
🌸
"Oh, Danielle, thank the gods," Marian expressed as she embraced the young girl tightly. "I was worried. I'm so sorry about what happened earlier. You didn't deserve that treatment. I regret not speaking up in your defense."
Danielle gazed up at Marian with her large, hazelnut-colored eyes and spoke in a soft, apologetic tone. "I'm sorry for scaring you, Marian. I just needed to get away for a bit... but I feel much better now."
"I was going to run after you, of course, but Robin stopped me," Marian commented with a slight pout on her lips as she gently tucked back the girl's unruly locks. Danielle anxiously nibbled on her lower lip, and Marian instantly sensed that something was wrong.
"What's wrong, honey?" Marian asked in a concerned, maternal tone.
Danielle was torn between telling Marian the truth and keeping her promise to Tinkerbell. In the end, she opted for a half-truth, flashing a toothy smile to hide her inner conflict. "It's nothing; I'm just happy to see you, that's all," she said, her cute dimples clearly visible.
"And I you," Marian said with a warm smile, planting a gentle kiss on the top of Danielle's head. "How about I draw you a bath, and then I can work my magic on your wild hair? How does that sound, hmm?" Danielle's face lit up with excitement as she nodded eagerly. "Perfect. Oh, and here is a fresh apple. I figured you'd be slightly hungry after your little adventure in the forest."
Danielle smiled sheepishly and took the apple. "Thanks, Marian."
👑
"So, you and Robin?"
They were perched on Marian's maiden cot, with Danielle sitting cross-legged, while the brunette woman expertly wove two braids into the young girl's hair.
Marian rolled her eyes and mumbled under her breath, "Not this again." Then she said, "What's your obsession with Robin and me being an item, hmm?"
"I know you like each other... I see the way you look at each other... It's like you both want to kiss one another... It's kinda gross," Danielle said, rolling her eyes and scrunching her nose knowingly.
"We do not look at each other like that," Marian snorted and protested with a smirk.
"Do too!"
"Do not!"
"Do too!"
"Do not—okay, I'm not doing this with you, little missy," Marian replied, playfully refusing to engage in the argument.
"Ha! Then I won; now you owe me!" Danielle exclaimed triumphantly, claiming victory in their playful debate.
"What's up with everybody owing you something these days after a disagreement or a silly game, hmm?" Marian questioned, raising an eyebrow curiously.
Danielle confidently stated, "It's only fair. If I win, then those I defeat must fulfill their end of the bargain. I don't make the rules," she shrugged. "But in this case, my proposal to you is..." She tapped her chin with a pointer finger, wearing a pensive expression that was hidden from Marian's view, and concluded, "You must allow Robin to court you."
Marian rolled her eyes and chuckled, "Honey, I see what you're trying to do here, but the answer is no. Find another deal."
"No takebacks!"
Marian huffed and rolled her eyes, saying, "Robin doesn't like women like me anyway."
"Does too!"
"No, he doesn't. He likes women with names like Duchess or Minerva."
Danielle giggled and said, "He does not!"
"He's a prince, even though he left his royal life behind. I highly doubt he would want to be seen with someone like me," Marian said, her voice tinged with hidden sorrow that Danielle couldn't understand, and Marian wouldn't want her to.
"I disagree! Whenever he comes here, you are the first person he asks about, and then you both engage in that thing where you pretend to dislike each other, but we all know you really don't... Mya says it's nauseating, and I have to agree."
Marian laughed.
"You're laughing because you know it's true!"
"You've grown into such a sassy smarty pants, you know that?" Marian quipped, a playful grin spreading across her face as her fingers deftly wove through Danielle's hair, finishing the braid. With a mischievous twinkle in her eye, she launched into a tickle attack, unleashing a symphony of giggles from the girl.
"Robin says I get my sassiness from you," Danielle remarked, giving Marian a sly smile.
"Oh, does he now?" Marian asked with a playful smirk, her tickle attack coming to an end. She then gracefully positioned herself on her side, propping up her elbow and resting her head on her hand. Danielle mimicked her actions, mirroring the woman's relaxed posture.
Marian beamed at Danielle with a motherly affection and exclaimed, "Ah ha, theirs that smile! I've been waiting to see it all day, and that time I think it went all the way up to your eyes."
Danielle smiled and blurted out, "You remind me of someone."
"I do, who?"
"Someone I've never met,"
The brunette raised a perfectly manicured eyebrow and asked, "Well, how can I do that if you've never met her?"
"Sometimes when I dream, I think I see her."
"Really? And for how long have you been seeing this woman in your dreams?" Marian inquired, her brow furrowed, delicately tucking a stray lock of hair behind Danielle's ear.
Danielle anxiously nibbled on her lower lip and said, "Umm, well, it was actually quite recent. I can't quite make out her face, but I can see that she has long dark hair like yours, and in my dream, she's singing to me. I believe it may be a memory from when she was holding me as a baby."
"And this woman... Do... Do you think she is your birth mother?" Marian asked, her voice filled with concern, as she gently placed a hand on Danielle's shoulder.
Danielle nodded confidently and declared, "I don't believe she gave me up either..." Her words exuded assurance.
The young girl knew she had made a promise to Tink, which she would surely keep, but she had to tell Marian about Lucas. Of course, she would omit the fact that he was part Wolf. That was Lucas's story to tell. "You know, I ran into Lucas in the forest... He told me the story about how his mother and father found him... He said he was stolen from them by an evil fairy!"
Marian's eyes widened, and she asked, "Oh my... Do... Danielle, do... Do you think the same thing happened to you too?"
"This probably sounds impossibly crazy to you, but I truly think so!... I mean, I can't explain how I know... but it's just this feeling I have. When I dream of her, it feels like she's truly there, holding me... I know she loved me. I know it sounds silly, but... please promise me you won't tell anyone I told you, 'kay?" Danielle's voice trembled with a mix of hope and vulnerability.
"It doesn't sound silly at all, and of course, honey, my lips are sealed," Marian said, mimicking the motion of sealing her lips. "Thank you for sharing that with me. I know it took a lot for you to open up like that. I am truly proud of you, and... I feel privileged to share a similarity with this woman. I have no doubt she is just as beautiful as you are," Marian added, gently cupping Danielle's chin and meeting her gaze with genuine compassion. "Do you wish for this woman, your birth mother, to find you and come back to you, too?"
"More than anything," Danielle said, her eyes brimming with tears.
Marian knew deep down that she wanted to take Danielle in as her own. However, if the girl truly wished to be reunited with her birth mother, Marian wouldn't deny her that choice. She would do whatever she could to find Danielle's mother and bring them together. It was the right thing to do. Marian knew that the journey wouldn't be easy, but she believed in the existence of magic and hoped to find the right magical being willing to help locate Danielle's mother, no matter what obstacles her cruel aunt might throw her way. She owed this to Danielle.
"Well, you did say I owe you, right?" Marian said, sitting up with a smile. Danielle mirrored her movement and raised her eyebrows. "Wait, what are you saying?"
"I'm saying that I owe you, and my gift to you is to ensure you are reunited with your mother... And I'll do whatever it takes, do you hear me?" Marian declared, her eyes glistening with tears as she gently brushed away a solitary droplet that had escaped from the young girl's eye.
"Thank you," Danielle said sincerely, even though she knew Tinkerbell was willing to help in her reunion with her mother. It was comforting to have the support of the woman who had been a mother figure to her since she was a tiny, kicking and screaming baby. While Lucas was lucky to have found his Mama and Papa, she felt pretty lucky to have Marian here at the orphanage, and Robin was not so bad either.
Overcome by a flood of emotions, Danielle eagerly threw herself into Marian's waiting arms, holding onto her tightly as she repeated, "Thank you, thank you, thank you... I love you, Marian."
Marian brushed away the tears streaming down her cheek, not wanting the young girl to witness her emotional state. "I love you too, my little honeybee," she whispered, gently rubbing Danielle's back.
As Danielle pulled away from their embrace after a moment, Marian playfully teased, "When did you become such a softie, hmm?"
"Don't make fun!" Danielle said, her lower lip sticking out and her arms tightly folded across her chest.
"Sorry, it's just that usually, you're such a tough gal," Marian said, giving Danielle's chin a slight nudge with her fist.
"Don't tell anyone, 'kay?" Danielle said, her finger pointing at Marian with a playful yet serious tone.
The brunette woman raised her hand with two fingers in a promising gesture. "As Robin would say... I have an honor code, and I intend to keep it," Marian said, mimicking Robin's accent, making Danielle giggle and smile.
Danielle playfully raised her eyebrows and quipped, "I mean, after all, I wouldn't want to ruin my reputation."
Marian laughed before leaning in and whispered, "I have an idea. Let's sneak into the kitchen and snatch some of that mouth-watering apple pie that Mrs. Potts whipped up. After all, I owe you for putting up with those freak show royals...they were more like deranged psychopaths, especially that grumpy old king. So, what do you say? Shall we?" She rose to her feet, winked at the girl, and offered her hand.
Danielle's mischievous smirk widened into an enthusiastic nod as she grabbed Marian's hand, and they tiptoed out of the maids' quarters, making their way towards the kitchen.
Unbeknownst to them, a sinister plan was brewing between the Blue Fairy and the Dark One against the young girl, and it would be set in motion in seven days' time.
TBC
I hope you enjoyed it. Please Kudos/Vote comment below with your thoughts! Whether you love it or hate it, let me know. 😄 Regardless, I'm going to keep writing. This fic is my baby, and I love working on it. Honestly, I was debating how I wanted Marian's personality to be, which is one of the reasons it took me so long to write this chapter. 😩 The next chapter will be Part 3, and it will likely be long as well. However, it will mark the end of Danielle's backstory. I must admit, I miss writing Regina. 😭 But it has been a joy to write her daughter and the many other OCs +Robin.
This chapter was inspired by the following movies: I'm a '90s baby, clearly. 🤭
- Anastasia
- It Takes Two
- Madeline
- Matilda
- Spy Kids
- Annie