When Sidney turns out to be a very sore loser, family and friends band together to put him in his place. The Swans have several people on their side, including a new visitor to Storybrooke who piques the interest of a few residents.

***

Victor Whale knew he was far from perfect. He was the best doctor that Storybrooke had, but that didn't mean he had the perfect brain. Hell, during his date with Mary Margaret, he had spent most of it ogling their waitress! Still, he felt relief that Mary Margaret hadn't been angry with him. In fact, she had encouraged him to go after Ruby.

So here he was at the counter of the diner, listening to the last of the partygoers leave as he finished off the cake on his plate. "And that," Ruby brought her tray full of empty glasses behind the counter, "is the end of my work day." She smiled sheepishly as she rested her forearms on the counter. "I'm sorry it took so long."

"Hey, our new sheriff one-upped the good mayor and Mr. Gold," Victor chuckled and shook his head. "Everyone else could party to their heart's content. I just came out here once everyone I knew and wanted to talk to left."

Ruby giggled, still looking relatively alert and peppy despite the late hour. "Give me a few minutes to wash up and change, then I'll be ready to head out. The Rabbit Hole?"

"You got it," Victor nodded with a grin. "Take your time. I've got all night."

Ruby beamed at him and disappeared around the back. Victor sat back on his stool with a smile, drumming his fingers on the countertop as he looked around the diner. The only people who remained were cleaning up after the party, which was why Victor had asked Ruby if she wanted to go out that evening to begin with. Granny and Ruby had catered the party, and Granny had given Ruby the evening off while the rest of the staff cleaned up after the celebration concluded. Ruby had eagerly agreed as long as alcohol was included in the date. After having to listen to Sidney Glass, Victor had been happy to oblige.

The bell above the door jingled, and Victor turned to see who entered at such a late hour. He blinked in surprise when he saw a rugged-looking man with sandy hair and amber eyes look around the diner with a hint of apprehension in his stance. With the long trench coat, jeans, and worn boots, he looked rather average compared to the fashion worn by Regina and even Emma. In fact, something about the man reminded Victor of Newt Scamander.

With that thought, Victor hopped off his stool and approached. "Can I help you, sir?" he asked politely.

The man turned to focus on him, and Victor schooled his expression to say neutral. Those were really intense amber eyes. "I hope so," he nodded, and Victor blinked at the British accent he used. "I realize I came into town at an extremely late hour. I hope it isn't too late to request a room at the closest inn?"

"That'll be the bed and breakfast just next door," Victor nodded. "It's late, but I think . . . " The click of heels announced the arrival of Ruby, and Victor turned and abruptly swallowed his tongue when he saw the sleeveless jumpsuit she wore that was the color of fresh blood, a faux fur coat draped over her shoulders. "Wow," he finally managed to say.

"You like?" Ruby grinned flirtatiously, then she did a double take when she saw he wasn't alone. "Oh," she blushed, fiddling with the coat to make herself look more professional. "Hello."

"Good evening," the man smiled politely and nodded, keeping his eyes on her face.

"He's hoping to check into the bed and breakfast," Victor explained. "This is . . . "

He trailed off, clearing his throat when he realized he didn't know the man's name. He chuckled, however, and extended his hand to Ruby. "Remus Lupin," he introduced himself.

"Ruby Lucas," Ruby nodded and shook his hand. "I can take you over and get you checked into a room right now."

"Well, if you were going somewhere, I would hate to make you late," Remus shook his head, glancing at Ruby's outfit and comparing it to Victor's nicer attire.

"The Rabbit Hole is open late," Victor waved off his concern. "Better to get you settled in now."

"Besides, we almost never get visitors in Storybrooke," Ruby added, beckoning for Remus to follow her down the hallway that connected to the bed and breakfast. "You got lucky coming in late. You probably avoided people staring at you." She threw a smirk over her shoulder. "I'm probably doing you a favor."

Remus chuckled as he followed Ruby, glancing around and humming appreciatively as he took in the homey feel of the bed and breakfast. "In that case, I am in your debt."

Ruby grinned as she pulled out the guest book. "I forgot to introduce myself as well," Victor held out his hand. "Victor Whale."

"A pleasure," Remus nodded and shook his hand. "I apologize again if I interrupted your evening."

"We just had a party going on in the diner," Ruby shook her head as she flipped open the book. "It's no trouble, Mr. Lupin. How long will you be staying?"

"I'm not certain right now," Remus admitted. "I came here in search of family, as a matter of fact. Contact with them has been . . . sketchy at best. I'm just checking to make sure they're OK."

Ruby tilted her head. "And I'm just guessing based on the accent, that family is - ?"

The door to the inn abruptly banged open, and Victor spun around to see it bounce off the wall. Sidney stumbled over the threshold, the man's face twisted into an ugly sneer. "What the hell, Sidney?" he snapped.

"Where is she?" Sidney scowled, his gait wobbly as he approached.

"Are you drunk?" Ruby's jaw dropped.

Remus sniffed and wrinkled his nose. "Very drunk, based on the smell," he muttered.

"I know she stays here," Sidney scowled, pointing a wavering finger at Ruby in an accusing manner. Victor stepped to protectively block Sidney's view of the woman, who had begun to reach for her phone. "Where is she? Regina told me it would easy to beat her, and she had to go and ruin everything!"

"Emma," Victor deduced, his throat suddenly tight. "You're looking for Emma."

He saw Remus glance sharply at him, and Sidney's scowl deepened. "Our newly elected sheriff," he sneered. "She's been here only a few weeks, and everyone is content to hand the town's safety over to her. Give her another month, she and her 'siblings' will have the mayor out of office."

"And that would be a bad thing?" Ruby muttered under her breath.

Remus snorted quietly, but Sidney snarled. "Where is she?" he bellowed. A soft gasp came from the stairwell, and Sidney whirled around. "You!" he roared and pointed, and Victor's heart dropped when he saw the raven-haired boy that stumbled in his attempt to flee back up the steps. "Where is your mother?"

"Sidney, that's enough!" Victor ran forward, hearing Ruby scramble to join him.

"I want an answer, boy!" Sidney shoved Victor off of him as he reached for Harry and grabbed his arm. "Where - "

He was cut off when Remus grabbed the collar of his shirt and slammed him into the wall, the thud making a few pictures shake. Sidney's confidence vanished abruptly, and as he stumbled to upright himself, he found Remus standing at the foot of the stairs, blocking anyone from making a move for the child that shook and clung to the railing. "If you put another finger on Harry, you will lose your entire arm," he threatened with a low growl, his amber eyes seeming to glow.

Sidney bristled and straightened. "He - !"

"Is a child!" Remus barked. "And you are drunk and obviously not thinking clearly. What the bloody hell are you thinking by trying to intimidate him?"

"I'm calling Emma," Ruby scowled as she furiously dialed on her phone and raised it to her ear.

"You need to leave, Sidney," Victor narrowed his eyes and pointed to the door. "You didn't see what Emma was like when she was initially searching for Harry. We did."

Harry's whimpers behind them grew in volume, and so did the growl that resonated in Remus's chest. "You're scaring my nephew," he said coldly. "Get. Out."

Sidney took one more look around the room, and Ruby raised an eyebrow and spoke pointedly into her phone. "Hey, Emma. I need you at the bed and breakfast."

Sidney mockingly raised his hands in placation and backed up to the door. "I'm leaving."

"Good," Remus sneered.

When the door shut, Victor sighed heavily in relief, then he stumbled in surprise when Harry lunged past him with a shout of "Uncle Moony!" Remus stumbled when he found himself with arms full of a raven-haired boy, but he immediately hugged Harry protectively as the boy tightly clung to him. "Hello, cub," he smiled, rubbing Harry's back. "It's OK."

"That answers that question," Victor exhaled slowly, hearing Ruby finish her conversation with Emma. "I apologize for Sidney's behavior. He just lost a close race to Emma for the sheriff's position here in Storybrooke."

"So I inferred," Remus nodded, running his fingers through Harry's unruly locks. "I suppose that means you aren't just visitors here, hmm?"

"It's a long story," Harry whispered.

Remus hummed thoughtfully. "One I look forward to hearing."

Footsteps from the next floor made Victor tense, then Newt's head poked around the corner. "Oh, Merlin," the man paled and hastily ran down the steps. "I thought I heard shouting. What happened?"

"Sidney Glass being a sore, drunk loser," Ruby deadpanned as she joined them. "And threatening Harry."

Newt's expression darkened. "Where is he?"

"Mr. Lupin here just made him run with his tail between his legs," Victor nodded to the new arrival.

Newt did a double take, then his face split with a grin. "Remus!" he greeted happily. "What a surprise!"

"Good to see you, Newt," Remus smiled. "I would say hello, but . . . " He looked down at Harry and shrugged. "I'm otherwise occupied right now."

Newt chuckled. "Not a bad way to be occupied." He crouched down to be eye level with Harry, his form screaming he was no threat. "Are you OK, Little One?" he asked quietly.

Harry gulped. "He called me 'boy.'"

The thunderous expression on Newt's face made a shiver go down Victor's spine. That expression did not belong on Newt's face . . . yet somehow it did. "Your mum, your aunt, and I will handle Sidney," he promised. "He won't do anything to you again, Harry. I promise."

The door crashed open for the second time that night, and it was a frantic Emma who ran inside, her face pale and her eyes wild. "Harry!" she gasped and ran to her son, completely disregarding Remus for the moment. She left Queenie to close the door behind them in favor of wrapping her arms around Harry. He wrapped his arms tightly around her neck, crying into her shoulder. "Oh, bud, what happened?" She asked quietly and Harry sniffled.

"He called me 'boy' and grabbed me, mum. Just like Vernon," he whispered.

"He did what?" Emma's expression turned murderous, her emerald eyes darkening to a dark Slytherin jade.

Harry nodded. "It made me think of Uncle Vernon and the way he used to grab, hit and yell at me," he whimpered as a flashback started. With his guard so far down, Queenie, for the first time, was able to see part of the flashback.

"And this is for talking back to your aunt, you stupid boy!" Vernon Dursley screamed at the boy, grabbing a pot from the stove and careening the boiling water at Harry, who screamed like he had been stabbed.

Queenie cried out and fell back, Ruby catching her as she did so. "The water," she whispered. "He dumped boiling hot water on him?" she asked Emma in horror, who nodded as Harry flinched violently and shifted, like there was a phantom pain in his back.

"That bastard!" Queenie narrowed her eyes, her voice lowering in pitch. Newt had only ever seen her like this a few times. And almost all of them had been when she found out specifics of Harry's abuse at the hands of the Dursleys.

Remus sighed. "Emma," he started. "We need to talk."

Emma nodded in agreement, kissing Harry's head. "If you feel comfortable enough, stay with Ruby, Victor and Newt and Queenie, bud. Remus and I have got to have a quick chat. If you want, you can explain why he scared you so much, okay?"

Harry flinched but nodded anyway. "Okay, Mum," he said. "Can we go back to our room?"

"If that's okay with them," Emma nodded in agreement and looked towards Victor and Ruby, who immediately nodded in agreement, making eye contact. They would gladly spend time with Harry and listen to his story then go out and get drunk. They had all the time in the world for that. Remus watched the quintet vanish up the stairs. Once they disappeared from view, Emma exhaled heavily and dropped onto one of the steps. "I am going to kill Sidney the next time I see him," she growled.

"If you're the sheriff now, I don't think that's going to help your image," Remus said lightly as he lowered to sit next to her.

Emma dropped her head onto her arms, which were crossed on top of her legs. "The one downside of going into law enforcement, I suppose." She sighed and brushed flyaways out of her face, and she turned to look at Remus. "Did something happen in Britain?"

"Just very worried friends," Remus shook his head. "It's as if you, Harry, Newt, and Queenie suddenly dropped off the radar. All but one of the Malfoys' attempts to contact you have failed in the past weeks. They, and Severus, have to stay in Britain, but we all worried when it grew more difficult to contact you."

"So you came to find us," Emma deduced.

Remus nodded. "I understood when I reached the town border. The magic protecting Storybrooke . . . it's unlike anything I've seen before."

"You can feel it?" Emma looked at him in surprise.

Remus appeared to think about it for a moment. "Not necessarily," he said slowly. "But there has to be magic at work. I never noticed the town existed until I followed the path Iustitia took to reach you. Something is off here."

Emma scoffed. "You have no idea, Remus. You remember Christmas, when we told you my magic had been blocked until the day I blood-adopted Harry?"

"I do," Remus nodded. "Queenie said it was likely caused by a curse, though you were unsure what kind of curse."

Emma sighed. "You're not gonna believe this." Remus made an expectant gesture, and Emma looked around before telling him, "Fairytales are real."

Remus blinked slowly. "Fairytales."

"You know, Snow White, the Evil Queen, Cinderella, those tales." Emma smiled wryly. "I'm the daughter of Snow White and her Prince Charming. I was put in a magical wardrobe to escape the Evil Queen's Dark Curse. Everyone here is one of those fairytale characters, and they've been stuck in time for almost twenty-eight years without their memories. The son I gave up for adoption ten years ago, Henry, came and found me, and time started to resume once I decided to stay." She paused for a moment, then she added, "But we know the Queen still has her memories. Rumplestiltskin has his, too. And Queenie helped get my dad's memories back."

Remus blinked once, twice, then steepled his fingers. "That is . . . certainly unlike any curse I have heard of before."

"Well, considering they were sent here from their land," Emma shrugged. "It sounds crazy, doesn't it?"

Remus exhaled slowly. "I think magic is unpredictable and incredibly versatile," he told her. "And I know magic is used to accomplish new feats all the time. The concept of another world or realm isn't so ludicrous to me. To know fairytales my mother told me are true . . . that's harder to comprehend."

"Well, you'll love this," Emma smirked. "According to my dad, Little Red Riding Hood is also the Big Bad Wolf." Remus's eyebrows rose in surprise, and Emma giggled. "And you've met her."

"Ruby," Remus chuckled. "That explains the red and the fur coat." He rested his forearms on his knees and looked at Emma. "So this curse . . . what exactly does it entail?"

"It was cast by the Evil Queen to ruin the heroes' happy endings," Emma answered. "She whisked everyone to a land without magic, where the only happy ending that exists is hers." Remus snorted, and Emma shrugged. "Well, our magic works, but Newt, Queenie, and I have seen no sign of any other types of magic. Also, aside from the Queen, Rumplestiltskin, and my dad, no one remembers their fairytale life. My dad only remembered because he was in a coma until recently . . . and his cursed memories warred with his fairytale ones until Queenie helped him."

Remus hummed thoughtfully as he mulled over the information. "And how do we break this curse?"

Emma blinked at him in surprise. "We?" she repeated.

Remus chuckled. "There's been no shortage of people in Britain who have been worried since contact with you dropped off. It's extremely risky for Newt and Queenie to visit the country, and you just became the sheriff of the town. I can travel back and forth relatively easily once I have a Floo network. And you're family, Emma. I want to help if I can. No offense, but you look like you're running on fumes."

Emma smiled faintly. "You have no idea, Remus." She nodded gratefully to him. "Your help would be gladly welcomed, Remus. If not to help me, then to help Harry. We're running all over the place here, and I know Harry wants to be ready for Hogwarts next term."

"Then consider me at your service," Remus playfully inclined his head, and he gave a mischievous wink when Emma giggled. "And I can put on the Marauder cap if it's required."

Emma snickered as she grabbed the railing. "Oh, I would love to see what your Marauder mind would make of Regina."

"Just point me in her direction," Remus grinned as he stood. He held out his hand, and Emma took it and let him help her to her feet. "In all seriousness though, Emma . . . I'm glad you're OK. We were all worried when we couldn't figure out where you were."

Emma squeezed his hand thankfully. "Thank you for checking on us."

***

Harry cradled his wrist close to his chest as Newt gently guided him up the stairs, and he bit his lip to keep from giggling when he heard Queenie muttering under her breath behind them. He couldn't hear exactly what she said, but he was certain he heard a few creative insults against the Dursleys and his headmaster.

Newt unlocked the Swans' door and ushered Harry inside. Harry stepped into the room, accidentally bumping into the doorframe when he did. Pain blossomed in his arm, and he gasped quietly, stumbling back into Newt's side. "Harry?" Newt asked in concern, placing his hands on his shoulders.

"It looked like Sidney grabbed him pretty hard," Victor frowned as he stepped into the room, and he crouched down until he was eye level with Harry. "Can I take a look at your arm, Harry? I promise, that's all I want to do."

Harry bit his lip and looked down at his arm, where he could see the bruises already beginning to form from how tightly Sidney held onto his arm. He meekly nodded, and Newt looked at Victor. "Harry prefers when he's told exactly what is happening."

"That's what I did when I checked him over after he and Emma crashed into the town sign," Victor nodded as he removed his suit jacket and rolled up his sleeves. "He was an excellent patient."

Harry smiled shyly. "Just be careful?"

"I will," Victor promised. "My guess is just that your arm is bruised, but better to be safe than sorry." Harry nodded and hopped up onto his bed, wriggling until he was sitting comfortably on the mattress. Ruby quietly closed the door behind her as Victor sat next to Harry. "Now, I'm going to hold your arm and carefully feel around where Sidney grabbed you," he said, well aware of the hawk-like eyes of Newt and Queenie watching every move he made. "It was around your elbow, right?"

"Yes, sir," Harry nodded.

Victor smiled. "No need to call me 'sir,' Harry."

Harry braced himself, but Victor's hands were gentle as he took the boy's arm and carefully used his fingers to probe around where Sidney had grabbed. He flinched when Victor brushed against an already-forming bruise, and Victor murmured an apology as his grip lessened. Ruby gingerly sat across from them, and she cleared her throat as she fiddled with the cuffs of her coat. "Harry . . . if you don't want to tell us anything, you don't have to."

Harry hesitantly looked at Newt and Queenie, and Queenie gave him a sad smile. "We won't make this decision for you, honey," she told him. "It's up to you."

Harry silently looked down and watched Victor examine his arm, and he finally whispered, "My parents were killed when I was a baby." Ruby inhaled sharply and Victor glanced at him, but neither spoke, allowing Harry to say what he wanted. "Someone who wasn't supposed to have a say in my life placed me with my mum's sister and her family. They didn't like anything that was considered 'not normal,' and I ruined their normal life. They hurt me in a lot of ways physically and mentally. I had broken bones, bruises, burns, scars. I was dehydrated and starved and insulted and taunted. I was rarely ever called by my name. It was either freak or boy. It was like that until I was seven years old."

"Is that when you met Emma?" Ruby asked.

"He met my sister first," Queenie corrected. "She came to check on Harry and took him from the Dursleys when she found out how he was treated. At the time, Emma was hired to investigate Harry's uncle, and she was in the area when Tina was talking to Harry. Tina placed Harry with Emma until the investigation concluded, and . . . well, Harry just never left."

"Why would he want to?" Newt grinned. "Emma is brilliant."

Harry giggled. "Mum and I went to Aunt Queenie's bakery for months, but we never met her until three months into the time she spent fostering me. Aunt Queenie introduced us to Uncle Newt, and we've stuck together ever since. We lived in New York until we moved here."

"Thank you for trusting us with that information, Harry," Victor told him with a smile. "Our mouths are sealed."

Ruby mimed locking her mouth shut and throwing away the key, and Harry giggled. "Thank you, Dr. Whale."

"You're welcome," Victor nodded. "From what I can feel, it does feel like all you should expect is some soreness and bruising. I don't feel anything that feels like a break or a sprain."

Queenie sighed in relief. "No need to set any creatures on Mr. Glass, Newt."

"Drat," Newt pouted.

Ruby giggled nervously. "That wasn't sarcasm, was it?"

"Uncle Newt is the best!" Harry grinned.

A loud sigh came from outside. "That hurt, kid!"

Newt laughed loudly as the lock clicked open. "Sorry, Emma!"

"How will my heart ever recover?" Emma shook her head in mock disappointment as she entered the room, Remus grinning as he shut the door behind them.

"With a hug?" Harry offered, holding out his arms with a puppy-like look in his eyes.

"Oh, man, you know I can't resist those eyes!" Emma huffed, but she was smiling as she walked over and hugged her son. "I heard the diagnosis is good?"

"As good as it can be," Victor nodded as he stood from the bed. "His arm will be sore and bruised, but it doesn't appear to be broken or sprained."

Emma nodded. "Thank you, Dr. Whale."

"Just doing my job," Victor smiled as he shook her hand. "Can I do anything else for you tonight?"

"No," Emma shook her head. "No, you've already done far more than I ever expected. Please, enjoy the rest of your evening."

"Are you sure?" Ruby asked as she stood, smoothing out any wrinkles in her clothing. "I would be more than happy to run to the kitchen and make some hot chocolate if you would like."

"I'm OK, Ruby," Harry smiled. "But thank you, Ruby."

"Alright," Ruby nodded. She hesitated for a moment. "Can I hug you, Harry?" Remus smiled approvingly at the question, and Harry hopped off the bed to hug her. Ruby beamed and rubbed his back. "Sleep well, buddy."

"We'll make sure he does," Newt smiled.

Ruby nodded and walked to join Victor, who stood by the door. "I don't know about you, but a night at the Rabbit Hole suddenly doesn't sound so good," she remarked.

Victor chuckled and held open the door for her. "Your wish is my command."

The pair left the room, and Remus looked at Emma. "I like them much better than your opponent."

Newt snorted. "So do we."

Remus crossed the room and took Ruby's former seat. "You're sure you're OK, Harry?" he asked.

"I'm OK, Uncle Remus," Harry nodded with a smile. "Thank you for handling Mr. Glass."

Remus snorted. "Moony was very close to ripping him apart, cub. No one hurts my pack."

Harry smiled at him. "Are you here for long?"

"Well," Remus folded his arms and glanced at Emma. "Your mother tells me a curse needs breaking around here, and it could be helpful to have another member of the family here. So . . . I am here as long as I can be of service."

Newt grinned. "All help is welcomed."

"Especially since we now know that Mr. Gold remembers," Queenie added.

Newt did a double take. "He does?"

"That's Rumplestiltskin?" Remus guessed.

Newt sighed. "Bloody brilliant. That's two villains to worry about."

"But now we have Remus," Emma pointed out.

Remus grinned. "I hope to prove worthy of that faith."

***

Henry kept a constant eye on the clock in the diner as the minutes ticked away, but the faces he sought had yet to appear and his worry increased. He fidgeted in his seat as he sipped at his cinnamon-dusted hot cocoa, courtesy of Granny, and he thought about how much longer he could stay at the diner before his mom came in search of him. He didn't have school due to the weekend, but she would know he hadn't remained in his room before long.

"Henry?" Mary Margaret's voice asked, and he looked up to see his teacher and David approach him, Mary Margaret looking worried. "Is everything OK?"

"Hi, Miss Blanchard," he smiled halfheartedly before looking down at his mug. "I'm just waiting for Emma and Harry."

David checked his watch in concern. "They haven't shown up yet?" he asked.

"No," Henry shook his head. "I mean . . . I know they could have gotten up earlier, since Emma's now the sheriff . . . but Harry likes to read in the corner. He's done it every Saturday since they arrived. And he's not here."

"Well," Mary Margaret appeared lost in thought. "Maybe they had a late night."

"Considering how late the party went," David nodded in agreement, glancing at Ruby as the woman appeared from the hallway to the inn and crossed to talk to Granny. "I think I heard she went to scope out her office, too."

"Well, if she did, she decided not to show up today." Regina's cold voice made Mary Margaret jump, and Henry looked up guiltily as his adoptive mother looked down at him with a disappointed look, Sidney hovering at her shoulder. "I went to check in on her, and the sheriff station is empty."

"That's not like Emma," Mary Margaret frowned. "Why isn't she there?"

"Nope!" Ruby's loud exclamation made Henry almost spill his cocoa, and he watched with wide eyes as Ruby stomped around the corner and up to the group, her emerald eyes blazing as she jabbed her finger towards the chest of a suddenly wide-eyed Sidney. "You, out! Get out of my family's business!"

"Ms. Lucas!" Regina scowled at her.

"You stay out of this," Ruby snapped, and the diner hushed as Regina did a double take and flushed angrily. "I am not letting this man be in the diner after the spectacle last night!"

"He was at the Rabbit Hole with me last night," Regina frowned.

"And what happened after he left the bar, Madam Mayor?" The cold voice came from behind Henry, and he turned in his booth to see Victor Whale lower the newspaper he had been reading and level an iron look on the mayor. "Because Ruby and I watched him come into the bed and breakfast like a bull in a china shop and scare Harry Potter-Swan out of his mind."

Henry's heart dropped into his stomach. "You what?" David's head snapped back to Sidney.

Ruby folded her arms and narrowed her eyes. "You have no place in this diner until you apologize," she declared.

"Ms. Lucas," Regina began.

"I think that sounds perfectly reasonable." The cold voice from the hallway to the inn made all attention turn to its owner, and Sidney attempted to cower behind Regina as Emma's vitriolic gaze zeroed in on him. "My son's arm is bruised where you grabbed him," she informed the reporter, causing Henry to gasp and Mary Margaret to cover her mouth in shock. "And you reminded him of the pathetic family that hurt him so much he was transferred to my care all those years ago. Give me one good reason I shouldn't arrest you right now."

Regina looked like she had swallowed a lemon as she turned to Sidney. "Is this true?" she asked.

Sidney swallowed hard. "I had too many drinks," he began.

"My uncle used that excuse, too." Harry's voice was quiet as he peeked out from behind Emma's legs, his hand tightly clutching hers. "At least you were stopped before you hurt me like he did."

Sidney flinched as if struck, and Victor swiftly stood from his booth. "How are you feeling this morning, Harry?" he asked, setting down his paper and crossing to join the Swans.

"It's sore," Harry answered as he rolled up his sleeve, showing the bruising along his arm. "But I know what a broken arm feels like. It isn't broken."

Victor's face darkened at the statement, but he plastered a smile on his face and nodded. "While I'm not happy with the reason you know what it feels like, I'm glad the injury isn't worse."

Harry nodded then looked at a very pale Sidney. "I don't want you anywhere near me," he said flatly. "But I know you're an ally of the mayor's. So Mum doesn't have to arrest you, but if that's what you do to me because you're upset she won against you, I don't think you should be anywhere near me or Henry."

"Certainly not alone," Emma agreed fervently.

Henry slid out of his seat and away from Sidney, which made Regina's eyes harden. "Well, Sidney?" she prompted. "What do you have to say?"

Sidney looked like it was the last thing he wanted to do, but he steeled himself and looked at Harry. "I sincerely apologize, Mr. Potter-Swan," he said formally. "It won't happen again."

"Good." Henry didn't recognize the voice, but judging by how Sidney backed up several paces, he did. When Henry turned back to Emma and Harry, he saw a sandy-haired man with eyes that looked auburn in the light join the pair, his hand settling on Harry's shoulder. Harry not avoiding the touch proved how much he trusted the newcomer. "I'll be sure to tell Emma if it does."

"Have a good day, Mr. Glass," Emma drawled, her voice dripping with insincerity. "I believe Ms. Lucas asked you to leave her family's diner."

Ruby smiled viciously and pointedly waved, and Sidney glanced at Regina helplessly. Regina curled her lip, but she appeared to know when she was backed into a corner. She shook her head, and Sidney dejectedly walked out the door. As soon as the bell ringing signaled the door closing, Henry bolted from his seat. "Henry!" Regina shouted warningly.

Henry skidded to a halt just in front of Harry, and he looked the raven-haired boy up and down. "You're really OK?" he asked worriedly.

"I just have a sore arm," Harry carefully moved his arm side to side, and he looked up gratefully at Victor. "Dr. Whale made sure I am." Henry nodded, and Harry smiled. "You can hug me, Henry."

Henry grinned and hugged his brother tightly, careful to not nudge his arm. "I didn't want to hurt you."

"That's smart of you, Henry," Victor nodded approvingly.

Regina cleared her throat as she walked up. "I apologize for Mr. Glass, Ms. Swan," she said stiffly. "He told me he would get a ride home after he left the bar. I didn't know he would come to the inn."

Emma pursed her lips. "Thank you, Madam Mayor," she nodded curtly. "But next time, think about who you support. That man could have seriously hurt my son while drunk . . . and you backed his campaign for sheriff."

Mary Margaret's eyes widened at the blunt words, but while Regina clenched her jaw, her tone was just polite enough when she responded. "I will certainly keep that in mind next time." Her gaze analyzed Remus head to toe, and her lip curled. "And we have a new visitor in town."

"This is Remus Lupin," Emma gestured to the werewolf. She noticed David's expression brightened; he recognized the name. "He was one of Harry's father's best friends since school, and Harry considers him an uncle. Remus, this is Mayor Regina Mills."

"Madam Mayor," Remus nodded respectfully.

"Your name is Wolf Wolf?" Henry blinked.

"Henry!" Regina hissed.

But Remus laughed loudly and looked at Emma. "This is your biological son?"

"That obvious?" Emma grinned sheepishly.

Remus shook his head fondly, still chuckling. "That's almost exactly what you asked when you met me at Christmas. Yes, that is my real name."

"Well," Regina forced a smile on her face and looked at Emma. "With all the family you're drawing to town, Ms. Swan, it sounds like you really are here to stay."

"What can I say?" Emma shrugged and smiled serenely. "I see several reasons to plant roots."

David coughed into his elbow to avoid grinning like a loon, and Regina finally looked at Henry. "Henry, I expect you home in time for lunch," she said with a glance at Harry. "Don't have too many sweets while you're here."

Henry brightened and grinned. "Thanks, Mom!"

Regina gave a final curt nod and headed out of the diner, and Ruby huffed. "I thought she'd never leave."

"Well, we made the mayor and her reporter lackey look stupid, and it's not even noon," Victor checked his watch with a grin. "This is a good day."

Ruby turned to Emma and Harry with a pleased smile. "Your usuals for breakfast?" she guessed.

"You're an angel, Ruby," Emma smiled. "Newt and Queenie should be down shortly, and they'll have their usuals, too."

Ruby nodded and looked expectantly at Remus, and the wizard chuckled. "I'll have the same as Harry, Ruby. Thank you."

Ruby nodded and headed behind the counter, and Mary Margaret looked at Emma with a smile. "Shall we put a few tables together?"

"That sounds like a good idea," Emma nodded. "Dr. Whale? Would you like to join us?"

Victor blinked in surprise, then he smiled, looking touched by the invite. "I'd be happy to, thank you."

As the trio worked to push together a few tables, that left Remus and Harry with David and Henry. The prince looked at Remus curiously, and the werewolf smirked. "Emma gave me the full rundown last night."

Henry grinned. "You're gonna help with Operation Cobra?"

"And I'll be tutoring Harry in preparation for his second year," Remus nodded, patting Harry on the shoulder. "But from what I've heard, Emma could use all the help she can get."

"We certainly do," David nodded and held out his hand. "David Nolan. Snow is Mary Margaret in this world."

Remus noted the pained look in David's eyes. "We'll get her back," he assured him.

David turned as Newt and Queenie emerged from the hallway, Newt gesturing extravagantly as he told the blonde a story, and the prince smiled and nodded. "I believe it."

"Hey!" They all turned at Emma's call, and the blonde gestured to the tables and chairs. "Are we eating or what?"

Harry immediately plopped into a chair and patted the one next to him. "Uncle Moony!"

"I didn't ask that last night," Victor looked curiously at Remus as he took the seat across from him. "Uncle Moony?"

"Moony was my nickname in school, after my name," Remus smiled sadly. "It stuck with the kids."

"Sort of an inside joke," Newt smirked.

Victor laughed as Ruby returned, the waitress carefully balancing a tray full of drinks. "Well, Moony," the doctor said with a grin. "Welcome to Storybrooke."

"Enjoy your stay," Ruby added with a grin as she started passing out drinks.

Remus examined the cinnamon-dusted hot cocoa placed in front of him, and he smiled as he watched Harry and Henry eagerly dive into a conversation. "I think I'm going to enjoy it."

***

Remus watched as Ruby and Victor talked as they ate, and he watched with careful golden eyes as she leaned against Victor to laugh. He cleared his throat. "So, who'd be willing to take me around town and show me around?" he asked.

Ruby grinned at Victor as she eagerly raised her hand before Emma or David could open their mouths. "We can do it! My shift here doesn't start for another few hours, and Victor is off from work today, so we can do it, if that's okay?"

"That sounds like a good day to me," Victor nodded in agreement.

Ruby grinned happily. "After breakfast we can head out," she decided, and Victor and Remus made eye contact and grinned at each other.

Remus would never dare to say out loud that he thought Ruby was a sweet creature, and that he liked how happy and charismatic she was all the time, or that he liked how Victor was a steady, calm presence, and that he'd like to be around both of them all of the time, but he would admit that they were probably going to be around for as long as his family was there, and that he liked that fact. Especially since once Emma got everyone's memories back, Ruby would once more be Little Red Riding Hood, and she would be able to sympathize with his lycanthropy, even though their cases weren't that similar.

Remus grinned at Ruby, his sandy blonde hair in his mossy green eyes as they made eye contact.

Yeah, he'd love it here.

***

Heeeeere's Remus! :D To those of you who saw my notes in the previous episode, I said to double check the main cast. I realized when we approached that we forgot to add our favorite werewolf Marauder, and that was such a crime that we hurried to correct that mistake. Remus is going to be around for the rest of the season, because while Emma and Newt run around being Mulder and Scully, someone needs to make sure Harry is ready for the next year!

. . . and, well, we may be ship teasing a little *smiles unapologetically* I say little. That may be an understatement XD Guess that chapter title could have a few different meanings, huh? I'm so stinking proud of that XD

"True North" is up next!

~ Miss Moffat