A New Beginning

Thirty Three

The wind blows in their faces and hair as Robin and Rumple stand together, their expressions a mixture of concern and determination.

"What is going on, Rumple?" Robin turns to Rumple, his voice tinged with both curiosity and urgency.

"Cora has kidnapped Regina and taken her back to the Enchanted Forest." Rumple, his face hardening, responds in a low voice

"What... How do you know? And why would Cora, her Mum do something like that?" Robin's eyes widen in shock, and he struggles to process what Rumple has just told him. He manages to find his voice and asks

Rumple takes a moment to collect himself before responding. "I was able to sense it with my magic," he explains. "And why Cora would take Regina... well, Cora has always been a manipulative and controlling force in Regina's life. My guess is that she wants to assert her power over Regina once more."

Robin's frown deepens as he contemplates Rumple's words. The idea of Cora wielding power over Regina, even after all this time, is a chilling one. "We have to get her back," he says determinedly.

Rumple nods in agreement, his own determination mirrored in his eyes. "Indeed we do," he says, his voice firm. "Let's walk back to yours and figure out a plan"

Robin and Rumple begin walking back to Robin's place in a tense, resolute silence. As they walk, they both know they have a lot to discuss and plan in order to bring Regina back home safely.

Once they arrive at Robin's, Rumple turns to him firmly. "We mustn't tell anyone about this," he says, his voice low and serious. "Not Snow, not Charming or anyone. We have to keep it between us."

Robin nods, his expression grim. "Agreed," he responds. "We have to handle this discreetly, at least for now. We don't want to cause unnecessary panic or make things worse by letting in other people."

Rumple looks at Robin, considering his request. Finally, he says, "You're staying here. Keep yourself occupied while I figure out a way to get to Regina."

Robin, however, refuses to back down. "No," he says, voice firm. "I want to come with you. I can't just stay here and do nothing while Regina's in danger."

Rumple's expression softens a bit, but his voice remains firm. "This is dangerous, Robin. We don't know what we'll encounter in the Enchanted Forest. It's better if you stay here."

Robin stands his ground, his eyes burning with determination. "I don't care. I'm coming with you, no matter what," he insists. "I'm not letting Regina face that woman alone."

Rumple gazes at Robin with a mix of firmness and understanding. "I appreciate your determination, Robin," he replies, his voice steady. "But my answer is still 'no.' It's safer for you to stay here. People will wonder where you are, and it's better to keep up appearances. Plus, you need to continue with the moving and packing."

Robin, realizing the complexity of the situation, asks, "What about if people ask where you and Regina are? What should I say?"

Rumple takes a moment to consider his answer. "Just give out vague and generic responses," he advises. "Say we're attending to some urgent business, or we had to take care of a personal matter. Keep it brief and noncommittal. Don't let on that anything is amiss."

Robin nods, understanding Rumple's logic. "Got it," he replies, a twinge of worry in his voice. "But what if they ask for more details or press for information?"