A/N: Hey all! So if you are a new reader and have never read my story 'Steady' then feel free to ignore this next part. For those of you who did and who have impeccable memories I just want to clarify a choice I've made for this fic. Originally I wrote that the pirate museum and the town with the history of pirates was a place called Coventry. Coventry still plays a role (that you will see ahead), but Storybrooke is our home base. If I have confused you, ignore all of this and just read the story. I'm probably making this more difficult than it needs to be anyway. Hope you all enjoy!

Through the doorway of the Storybrooke schoolhouse, Emma looked out into the late April sunlight and smiled. The last of the winter's snow had melted away over the past few weeks, and in its stead was green grass, the barest sprouting of leaves on the trees, singing birds, and a mildness that allowed her to leave her warmest wrap at home.

The children in her charge currently worked to finish up their morning lessons, all split into their individual segments by grade and aptitude level. This allowed Emma one of the few moments of reprieve she found during a busy school day. She loved this work and watching ideas connect and building blocks of learning come together for her pupils to be sure, but it was strenuous at times, and her workload had only increased after the new influx of citizens to the town last November.

Nearly six months ago, a terrible fire burned through a neighboring village just a few miles up coast from Storybrooke called Coventry, and though some people stayed in that general vicinity, trying to rebuild, most moved south and ended up here. As far as places to land when all hope seemed lost, Emma knew personally that Storybrooke was one in a million when it came to hospitality and quick neighborly affection. She'd landed here herself when she was just a small girl, orphaned and alone, but she'd never wanted for love or connection. The whole town in many ways became her family.

Since the Coventry fire, the town had done all it could to provide shelter and supplies and means for building new lives to its unexpected guests, and that included bringing in Coventry's children to the school system here. The town officials expanded the wooden building and its faculties as soon as they could, and planned to bring a new teacher on to assist with the lessons. Emma expected her help to arrive in the coming weeks, but she thanked God every day that the children were so well behaved. Yes they were children, and none of them were perfect, but they were all together good and decent and kind. Emma just hoped they would always remain as such.

"Miss Emma, time's up!" Emma smiled at the precocious six-year-old girl who'd reminded her of their schedule. She returned once more inside the classroom and checked around to make sure her students were all on the right track with their spelling and grammar. Finding them all well on their way, Emma shifted their attention to another subject.

"Today's natural lesson will be on something you all know well, no matter your age, no matter your length of time in this school." Emma wrote on the black board in front of her with chalk a fine white chalk, spelling out the word. Emma wrote only four of the letters before one of them guessed it.

"The Seasons!" Emma smiled turning back around.

"Exactly right. Now as you all know, we have four season cycles and they are called…"

"Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter," the children chorused back.

"Right again. Now each season brings change to the world. The animals, the plants, the weather, it is all effected. Does anyone have an example of this they'd like to share?" Emma looked at the sea of raised hands and found with some surprise that one of her shyer students from Coventry had her hand raised. Grace Hatter didn't say much, but Emma knew her to be a bright girl. For her to raise her hand willingly in class though was a big step in the right direction.

"Grace." The girl gave a wide smile.

"Pirates come at the end of winter and they only visit in the warmest of months. But Captain Jones says that if you go farther south, it stays warm longer, and that some parts of the world are warm all the time, with no winters or anything." Emma often heard strange prattling and stories from the children in her tutelage, it was a hazard of her job, but this – pirates – was something so far from her wheelhouse, she stood for a moment in shock.

"What a lovely story, Grace, but I'm not sure it's exactly true. Pirates don't come to this part of the world." The entire segment of students from Coventry protested her statement and all of them yelled over each other at once. Emma and the Storybrooke children looked on in confusion and wonder as they did so.

"Yes they do!"

"I've met loads of pirates."

"My mother's pies are the best on the Eastern seaboard – she's the only one with a pirate's stamp of approval." Emma finally shook her head and returned to her senses.

"You mean to tell me that you have all met pirates before in Coventry?" The children nodded and Emma looked to the oldest among them named Thomas for more information.

"The town has a deal with only one band of pirates. It's always the same group of men, under the authority of Captain Jones." Emma still couldn't process fully but asked more questions all the same.

"And your parents are fine with you all meeting these men?" Thomas nodded but before he could speak, Grace spoke again, eager to explain.

"They live by a code of honor. Father says they were all sailors at one time or another, but now they live outside the law. They only steal from men with means, and then they share what they steal with people who need it. People like us." What a fantastical idea. Pirates! And not just pirates, but pirates who took on the rich to help the less well off? It was straight out of the pages of a storybook.

"But now that we live here, we'll likely never see them again. Captain Jones is a careful man, and once he finds Coventry is mostly gone, he'll probably stop coming all this way up the coast. We were their last stop." Thomas seemed sad at the prospect, and Emma felt a pang in her chest as well. It all sounded so sensational, she felt sad to think that she'd never experience it herself.

Regardless, Emma could not allow the rest of her day to slip by simply speaking of pirates. She redirected focus after a little work, and eventually reigned in her pupils once more. Her own mind, however, continued to wander, and in the recess of her consciousness she never stopped thinking about this intriguing Captain Jones and the pirates he commanded.

…..

"The entire town, Captain?" Killian nodded with a grim look on his face. His second in command, who went by the name of Smee, shook his head in shock. Killian understood how the older man felt. The people in Coventry may not have had much, but they were good, resilient folk with kindness enough to overlook this unruly band of pirate's more… unsavory acts. Not many places Killian visited supplied the same treatment.

Not that Killian wasn't adamant that he and his men live by a code of honor, for he was. There was none of the typical styles of abuse and power mongering here amongst his crew and aboard his ship, merely a somewhat clouded register of what was right and what was wrong. Killian had long believed, ever since he was a boy, that rich men, who did nothing to aid the poor, were scourges on this earth. He'd suffered at the hand of such greed, and when given his chance to get out from under such a system he had.

Killian originally hoped the military might give him more purpose and the chance to defend and help people, but greed had reached him there too, and after the untimely death of his elder brother, Killian realized it would be an inescapable part of life. If the system could not be undermined by working within it then, it could certainly be disrupted and thus was his call to piracy – stealing form rich men and power hungry Lords and sharing that wealth with places like Coventry.

"Nearly everything in the main square is gone, and the people have left. Just a few local fisherman remain." At least no one perished in the flames. That was a real relief when Killian spoke with the men remaining.

"Where are they now?"

"About four miles south, a town called Storybrooke." The citizens of Coventry found prosperity in this new place, one of the fishermen had even called it a haven, and Killian had to hope that was true. They were low on supplies and needed to restock as soon as could be or they would not make the trip down the coast easily.

"What a strange name." Killian smirked at that. He'd thought the same upon hearing it, and he would know, he'd been all around the globe at this point, and it took a lot to surprise him anymore.

"Perhaps, but they all had only favorable things to say about the place."

"What are your orders, Captain?"

"We sail for the port there and hope for the best. I don't imagine the village would be manned by ay real resistance, and worst case we go the once and steer clear from now on." Smee nodded and departed to give the orders, leaving Killian to stand alone once more.

In his past decade sailing the high seas, Killian had faced numerous foes, and many a situation far stickier than this, but something in his gut told him that this moment was different. Rationally he mused that it was just the name of their new destination or the sadness of the circumstances, but he couldn't shake the feeling that something was coming, not bad exactly, just different and important. The winds were shifting, and the sail back down the coast should be a smooth one, leaving him a dwindling window in which to collect himself and address his men. On the final stretch of the ride in, Killian called his attention to them though, raising his voice to convey his sincerity.

"We know little of this town, men, but what we do know is that for many of the people here today, this will be their first time seeing pirates. For that reason, and because they have shown our friends such hospitality, we will all be on our best behavior. No scuffles, brawls, scraps – if any of you so much as put a toe out of line while in port, it will not go well for you, I can promise you that." Killian knew the threat was not necessary, his men were loyal and all of them were better than the common ruffian, but appearances must be maintained, and he liked to flex his more ruthless muscles every now and then. Good to stay fresh even in times of prolonged calm as they had celebrated recently.

"You've heard the Captain. Now get us into port." Killian admired all the while how the coastline here had deep waters all the way to the shore, and a brilliant offsetting of beach and overlooks. The land was green here, lively though it had just past the winter thaws, and he felt a flutter of something like excitement the closer they got. Heaven knew why, but he eagerly awaited their landing all the same.

….

"Goodbye Miss. Emma!" Her final pupil called out to her as Emma felt the last bit of rigidity in her posture slide away. Another week finished meant that for the next few days at least she could relax. With the new signs of spring, Emma anticipated more enjoyment to be had outdoors, and she hoped she could convince some of her friends to resume their long walks through the woods to her favorite meadows once more. It had been too long since she'd had companions on those adventures, but she knew sunlight and mild weather would be all the enticement she'd need.

After closing up the school house and returning to the center of town, Emma lingered amongst the people, wanting just a bit more adult interaction before she returned to the house where she lived with Ruby Lucas and her Grandmother, the two people who'd taken her in when she'd arrived her years ago. At home, conversation was monopolized by Ruby about her engagement to the new town Doctor who'd come from Coventry, and while Emma was happy for her friend who was almost a sister to her, she could go without surmises on lace and wedding clothes and ceremonies just for a while longer.

Emma herself planned only to marry if faced with undeniable love. Nothing less could tempt her, and it was for this reason that at nearly three and twenty she remained unwed and without prospects. It didn't sadden her though; Emma was surrounded by people who loved her, and at least here in Storybrooke, she knew she would be fine if romantic love never did come. It did get a little lonely though sometimes, when curled by the fire reading novels about romance when she didn't have any herself.

Shaking off the longing sentiment, and reminding herself to be grateful for the things that she did have instead of what she lacked, Emma continued onwards, expecting to see the usual characters milling about today. The citizens of Storybrooke were creatures of habit and so the buzz in the town square when she arrived, surprised Emma. Everyone was running about with such animation, it struck Emma as highly unusual.

"Emma, there you are!" Her friend Mary Margaret Nolan, the old school mistress said with relief in her voice as she stepped away from her husband David, the town sheriff. "Have you heard the news?"

"No, has something happened?" Mary Margaret took Emma's hand in hers and squeezed tight.

"Pirates are coming here… to Storybrooke." Surprise was not the right word to describe the emotions flooding Emma. Anticipation, yes, but not surprise. The children had said now was the time this morning, and Emma had been toying with the idea all day that the pirates might come here instead. Mary Margaret though looked likely to faint.

"What my lovely wife has neglected to tell you is that we are assured by each and every businessman and woman from Coventry that the pirates are honorable and bring no trouble with them. Mary Margaret, though, has her doubts." Emma smiled a little bit, trying to bite it back though in the face of Mary Margaret's concern. Her friend's tendency to worry was widely known about town, but Mary Margaret herself was in denial.

"If they're such upstanding citizens, why refer to themselves as pirates?"

"Because that is what they are, Mary Margaret." The comment came from Ruby who'd wandered down the street towards them and had a look about her that spoke to her knowing something more. "I just came from the general store, and heard a gaggle of the Coventry women speaking of Captain Jones. I believe the phrase they used was 'incredible handsomeness wrapped tight in roguish authority.' I can hardly wait to see such a fearsome man."

"Don't let Doctor Whale hear you saying such things, Ruby. A man could be driven to jealously for lesser declarations." Mary Margaret harrumphed at her husband's words.

"Well you'll hear no such words from me, David." Mary Margaret now placed her arm in David's but still looked to Emma with some anxiety gripping her features. "Maybe you should stay home today, Emma, away from the eyes of the pirates." Emma didn't understand what her friend meant at all.

"I beg your pardon?" Ruby muffled a laugh, and now Emma turned her attention there, seeking answers.

"I think our dear friend is worried that the pirates will take one look at your beauty and your lack of attachment and try to sweep you away with them on the ship." Emma blushed as a flutter of something she couldn't quite identify moved through her chest.

"I would worry even if she was engaged, just as I worry for you, Ruby, but I know there is no convincing you and so I haven't bothered to try." Ruby smirked.

"So Emma has rational good sense, and I am what? Guided only by the promise of a handsome face and a little adventure?" Mary Margaret blanched a little at the words.

"That's not what I meant. I know you love the Doctor, but…" Ruby shook her head.

"But I'm still curious and will not be shuttered into my house when arguably the most exciting thing to ever happen in this town comes to pass. You're right, but it's safe. Our new neighbors have assured us and I trust them. Besides, Emma must come, for how would she ever face her students tomorrow having not seen the pirates herself?" Emma smiled at that, finally a good excuse to see them. She'd been searching her mind for a way to not seem incredibly eager and a little bit reckless, and Ruby, wonderful as she was, had just given her that justification.

"It will all be fine, Mary Margaret, and just think the stories we will have to tell you later." Her friend was hardly appeased, but eventually nodded, signaling the worst of her fears were behind them. With that, Mr. and Mrs. Nolan took their leave and Emma and Ruby were left to their own devices in the center of the courtyard.

"How far away are they?" Emma asked, only just realizing that she had no idea when they'd be here.

"The harbor master said within the hour but that was some time ago." Emma's whole body buzzed with adrenaline. She ran her hands down the soft material of the plain green dress she'd worn today and wished she had something nicer on, only to realize how ludicrous the thought was. Surely the pirates didn't care if she had her new or old frock on, and despite Mary Margaret's fears, none of them were here to sweep her away to a life of escapade on the high seas. But part of Emma almost wished that they were here for such things. It felt as if a part of her soul long dormant had been awakened by the intrigue of such a life, and now she could hardly wait to see the men who lived it each and every day.

…

The first thing Killian noticed once off his ship was the incredible craftsmanship of these docks, and the picturesque nature of the town he could see off in the distance. The second was the eager populous awaiting him. There were many a familiar face here by the docks and Killian was glad to see that. Among them was a man he considered more than a trading liaison but a friend. His name was Jefferson and he ran the general store in Coventry. He currently waited by the end of the docks with his daughter Grace on his shoulders. Killian watched the young girl scurry down to stand on her own two feet and as he approached she ran to give him a hug. The affectionate gesture was unexpected but not unpleasant.

"Quite a welcome you've given me, lass." Grace just smiled up at him before returning to stand by her father.

"I told Miss Emma about you today because I knew you would be here soon." Killian looked to the girl's father for translation.

"We had worried that you may not come this season, but Grace and the other children informed their school mistress about your tradition of coming to port in Coventry just this morning." Killian nodded, wondering what that poor woman must have thought when she'd heard about pirates.

"We almost didn't but supplies are running low, and there's enough repairs for my men to handle before a longer voyage that we needed a day or two somewhere." Jefferson smiled thoughtfully.

"All things considered it's a good place to stop. Our sheriff is a good man, who's even been so kind as to take the rest of the day away from the fray of town so as not to trouble you or your men." Killian raised a brow at that.

"A trusting man, then?" Jefferson nodded turning around and leading Killian down the docks. Killian greeted many of the other townspeople, but continued to listen to Jefferson.

"With good instincts too. Our word was enough to prevent any sort of resistance to your coming. Though his wife was less than thrilled, and for a woman who prides herself on propriety it was a sight to see her react so poorly." Killian smirked. He'd have liked to see that, if just for a laugh.

"And the rest of the town?" Jefferson looked about the town square they were approaching.

"Skeptical but open. They've welcomed us here with open arms and hearts, and are willing to take on another unexpected turn of events."

Killian was about to reply when he noticed the shape of two women across the way from him. One was a striking brunette, dressed in fine clothes with a ready smile, but it was her companion who completely enthralled Killian. All he could see was the mysterious woman's golden hair, which was only half up despite his knowing full well that she was a woman. Killian's fingers itched to run through the strands that hung about her shoulder, to see if they felt as silky as they appeared, and so he balled up his fists. It shone in the light, filling his person with warmth as if she were the sun itself.

The woman filled out the simple green dress she wore to perfection, with creamy skin that he saw just enough of underneath the modest cut. But her face truly held him captive when she turned towards him, with full lips he'd like to taste, a pert little nose with a smattering of freckles and eyes so green, they seemed more like precious gems than the common facial feature. She'd yet to see him, but suddenly it was all that Killian wanted in the world. To be seen by such a woman would be enough happiness to last him a good long while.

"Miss Emma!" The woman looked from her companion to the source of her name, who Killian only recognized as Grace when she – Emma – greeted her with nothing but loveliness.

"Hello there, Grace. Mister Hatter." Emma's eyes moved to Killian's and he watched her shock, but there was something more there, something a lot like interest. A blush crept over her cheeks and her mouth opened slightly as her friend came up beside her once more.

"Miss Swan, Miss Lucas. This is Captain Killian Jones." Emma stayed quiet but her friend grinned widely.

"Well I'll be. The rumors are true, and they do not disappoint, do they Emma?" Emma tore her gaze from Killian himself to shoot a look at her friend, and the moment without her looking at him caused him physical bodily pain. It was instantly soothed when her voice wafted over to him again, a mix of warmth and a subtle smokiness that made her even more appealing.

"Pardon my friend, Captain. Storybrooke doesn't see many changes to the status quo and your arrival constitutes a substantial alteration." This place might live in a circular kind of fashion, but the woman before him had completely transformed Killian's own world in just a matter of minutes. Everything else he'd ever known paled in comparison as if he'd lived two phases of his life before and after meeting her.

"Not a bad one, I hope." Killian nearly cursed aloud at how ridiculous he sounded - too eager, and too desperate for more words from her. The smile she gave him, the one that lit up the whole entire world, made the embarrassment worth it though. She gave a slight shake of her head.

"Technically that remains to be seen. Do you intend to do any harm or cause any problems for the people of this town or their property?" She tilted her head to the side, a light in her eyes so endearing he took a half step closer to her without even meaning too.

"Be warned, Captain Jones, that my friend Emma can scent out a lie better than anyone else I've ever met." Jefferson laughed at Miss Lucas' claim.

"It's true, I've seen it done many a time at the school house." Killian's eyes remained on Emma's.

"You have my word that no disadvantage to this town or its people shall come from me or my men, Miss Swan." Her eyes took him all in once more and he'd never felt so on display in all his days of living more. Finally she nodded, and he felt he'd past some sort of test which filled him with elation.

"Right then. Well we best be off then." Miss Lucas' words caused another strike of loss to shoot through Killian. With little more than a 'goodbye' and a small curtsy, Emma was leaving him and taking with him that immense sense of pleasure that just standing in her presence had brought him. He desired her to be sure, but he also had an urge to protect her. He had no claims to Emma, but he felt in his heart that she was his, or at the very least that he was hers.

"Father, why is Captain Jones looking at Miss Emma like that?" Grace whispered, loud enough for Killian to hear, as he watched Emma continue down the street.

"That, my dear, is the look of a man lost to love." Jefferson would find no argument on that truth from Killian. Emma Swan must be some sort of witch for the spell she'd put him under, but hell if he cared. She was perfection, and he would be damned if he went without seeing her for the whole month.

"We'll stay the two days and return in a fortnight, instead of our usual month." Killian didn't need to look at Grace or Jefferson to know they must both be grinning. He couldn't help the smile that toyed at his lips himself. Whatever it took, he would see Emma again soon, and he knew that when he did, that same bubbling of joy would return to soothe his blackened but still hopeful heart.

Post-Note: Okay so there we have it. I'm not sure where this story is going, as I have not planned out it's length by any means, but if you guys (and the lovely follower who prompted it) enjoyed, I could be convinced to explore this AU for a while. Thank you all again for reading and have a lovely weekend!