Author's Note: Seems the last chapter was a hit, LOL. Plenty more sexy times ahead, everyone. Plus we're starting to lay the ground work for the probable sequel to all this, if anyone is interested in that. Let me know what you think! :D

Disclaimer: Sadly, no.

Chapter 12

He woke up to screams.

Killian sat up in the darkness, his sleepy brain trying desperately to catch up. Emma lay next to him, tangled in the bedclothes, drenched in sweat and yelling her head off. He had to tear the sheet to free her hands, his heart racing, instinctively reacting to the obvious terror from wherever the dreamworld had her trapped. He shook her shoulder once, twice. Still she screamed.

"EMMA!" he yelled hoarsely, fighting to keep her still. "EMMA!"

She gasped sharply, eyes flying open. He could just make out the whites in the darkness. "Killian?"

He was so relieved that she was awake and that she knew him. He pulled her into a tight hug; she was still trembling, clutching at his forearm. "It's alright. I've got you. It's alright now, darling." He kissed the top of her head, resting his cheek there.

She said something, but it was so soft he couldn't make it out. "What is it, love?"

"Fire," she whispered. Gods, she was still shaking. "So much fire."

He didn't know what to make of that. "It's just a dream, my love. Just a dream." Whatever it was it didn't feel like the nightmares she'd had after Randle attacked her. This felt darker, more sinister.

Emma shook her head. "Curse."

That got him to raise his head. "Curse? You mean like the sleeping curse?"

She nodded then buried her head against his chest. "Can you light a candle?"

He was almost afraid to let go of her, even long enough to light a candle. But he needed to see her. He dropped another kiss to her brow and let go, turning to get his brace from the nightstand. He put it on loosely, just needing it long enough to strike the flint. This was one of the rare times he cursed not having his other hand. It made him want to kill Blackbeard all over again for making him less than whole.

It only took a few moments; the candle wasn't bright enough to light the room, but it was enough for him to finally see her face. She looked extremely pale and shaky. Quickly, Killian shucked off his brace and gathered her back into his arms. "Better?"

"A little."

She was still replying with little more than monosyllables, which scared him. "Emma, what did you see?" he asked cautiously.

"A room filled with fire."

Something Snow had told him when they were on their way to the Dark One's castle clicked into place; he had almost forgotten about it in the euphoria of having Emma back where she belonged. "The netherworld? Is that what you saw?" He held her closer, feeling a bit helpless.

"You know about that?"

"Your mother explained the curse to me," he said quietly. "Love, I'm so sorry."

Emma curled her legs around; she was practically sitting in his lap. "I knew what I was doing." Her voice still sounded a bit shaky.

"I know, which makes you all the more brave for it. To think you'd go through such an ordeal for me...I love you so much, lass." He pressed his lips to her hair, keeping her against him, offering what comfort he could.

"It stops eventually," Emma offered. "Papa used to light a candle for Mother when the nightmares came. It made her feel better." She raised her head, green eyes shining in the low light. "I'd do it again. I love you too much to lose you."

"I don't want to lose you either, love. Both of you." He brought his good hand down to her clothed stomach, thumb rubbing it gently. It was still a bit hard to believe that their child was in there. She still looked the exactly the same. He remembered vividly their game with the mirror, how thoroughly debauched and glorious she looked. In a few months, she'd still be glorious, her stomach rounded with their child. She already had a bit of a glow about her that he found completely intoxicating.

"Both of us," Emma repeated, a bit awed.

"Still surprised, sweetheart?" he asked, with a tiny laugh.

"Maybe a little. It's a big change."

"Indeed. But we'll take good care of you and the little one. You'll be safe."

Emma nodded, but he could see the worry in her eyes. She caught his hand in hers. "Do you want a boy or a girl?"

Killian's eyes widened, unprepared for the slight change in subject. "Can't say I've given it much thought. I'd be happy with either, I suppose."

"I thought..." She chewed on her lip. "I thought if it was a boy...we could name him Liam."

Killian, for quite possibly the first time ever, was stunned into speechlessness. He simply had no idea what to say. It was incredibly touching that she'd want to name their possible son after his beloved brother.

But Emma took his silence for dissent. "Or not. It was just an idea. It's probably way to early to even start considering names..."

Killian put a finger to her lips, stopping her in mid ramble. "Emma. I think that is a smashing idea."

"Really?"

"Aye. But what if it's a girl?"

She looked a bit sheepish. "I'm not sure. I didn't get that far."

He laughed. "That certain, are you?"

"Actually, there is a way to know. My grandmother had a charm that's supposed to tell you the sex of your first born. I think my mother still has it."

"Shall we pay her a visit in the morning?"

"Are you sure you want to know?"

"I want whatever you want, Emma."

"I may be the one who's pregnant, but you're allowed to have an opinion, you know."

He thought about it. The notion of actually having a child of his own was still so...insane to him, he could honestly say that he hadn't given any of the...aftermath much thought. He'd given up on any hope of family so long ago. But now he was here, married to a princess and she was pregnant with his child. And he was happy. So what did he care if his princess gave him a lad or a lass? He didn't. But he could see that Emma did. And if it was something that related to her family...how could he say no?

"Love, we'll go see the Queen first thing in the morning. But I think," he said, thumbing the apple of her cheek, "you should try and get some more sleep. Can you do that for me?"

She smiled tiredly. "Can you leave the candle? Papa says it chases the nightmares away."

"Of course, love." He wasn't sure how much more sleep he'd be getting anyway. He'd be too preoccupied with watching over her. Killian slid them down the bed, Emma moving out of his lap until she was pressed against his side. He wrapped his left arm around her shoulder, her head resting over his heart. In a few minutes her breathing evened out and she was asleep once more.

They slept later than usual, not that they had anywhere to be. One of the things Killian was learning about this whole prince lark was that the world waited for you. He was used to being up at all hours, but since Emma came into his life he found himself developing a routine of sorts. It had been upended a bit by moving from the ship to the castle, but as the days went by it was getting easier. And Emma needed her rest, so he wasn't about to complain about staying in bed, holding her as she slept.

After breakfast—where Emma had eaten two helpings of everything—they headed across the castle grounds to the Queen's solar. As they crossed the courtyard, Emma pointed out the way she had come when she ran away and Killian shook his head in amazement. The portcullis had to be at least twenty feet high. She was fearless, his princess. Fearless and determined. And she'd done all that for him. It made him fall in love with her just a little bit more.

Just as they got to the door though, Killian felt Emma tense. "What is it, love?" he asked.

Emma looked up at him apologetically. "I haven't been here since I found out I was to marry Baelfire," she explained. "Just feels a bit like déjà vu."

He squeezed her hand. "Ah, but these are surely happier circumstances?"

She let her free hand drift over her still flat stomach, a smile slowly lighting up her face. "Definitely happier. You're here."

"I wouldn't be anywhere else."

Emma took a deep breath. "Okay, I'm ready." She reached forward and pushed open the door.

It looked like a fabric shop had exploded inside the sunlit room. At least seven servants—seamstresses Killian presumed—were running hither and yon holding up bolts of fabric for the Queen to inspect. She hadn't even noticed their arrival.

"Looks like it's already begun. Wow," Emma said quietly.

"What's begun?"

"Preparations for the ball. Or the wedding. Or both. It's hard to tell."

"Oh." Even when he'd been a naval officer he'd never seen anything like this. Although, generally speaking, all he had to do was clean his dress uniform and show up. He'd never given much thought to all the preparations that went into putting on a royal function.

"Emma! Killian! I didn't see you come in," Snow said, cutting through Killian's thoughts.

"We can come back later," Emma replied hurriedly.

"No, no, it's alright. I was just finishing up," Snow said easily. "Maria, have the girls start on my gowns. I'll bring Emma along later to retake her measurements." The older woman nodded and curtsied, summoning her helpers to gather their things.

Killian looked back at Emma, who was frowning. "Why do I need my measurements retaken?"

The door closed behind Maria before Snow answered. "Well, you've been away. And as the wedding gets closer they'll need to leave enough room for any...alterations."

"Alterations?" Killian said, confused. Then he looked down at Emma. The wedding was about two months from now, when she'd be nearly four months along. He didn't know that much about all the changes a woman's body went through during a pregnancy, but allowances needed to be made he supposed. Just in case. "Nevermind."

Snow smiled indulgently. "Just a precaution, Emma. Relax." She bade the two of them to sit. "Now since I doubt you came here to see piles of cloth, I'm going to assume there's another reason behind this visit?"

Emma looked at Killian, who nodded encouragingly. "We were wondering if you still have the charm Grandma Ruth gave you."

Snow's face lit up. "In all the excitement, I had completely forgotten about it! But yes, I have it." Her smile widened. "I still remember the day she gave it to me and I found out that I'd be having a little girl, against all the odds. She'd be thrilled to see another generation of this family use it. I'll be right back."

"Odds? What's she talking about, love?" Killian asked, as soon as Snow left the room.

"King George poisoned her," Emma explained. "He was bitter that Papa chose her, so he made it so she couldn't have children, since she was depriving him of a son. The last drop of water from Lake Nostos cured her."

"Between the Evil Queen and this George bloke, it's a wonder you were even born, lass." He tried imagining his life without her in it, a world where his True Love didn't exist. It seemed bleak and dark without his sun.

"It seems like no generation of this family can be born without someone trying to stop it," Emma said bitterly.

Killian caught her chin in his hand. "Hey, I won't let that demon anywhere near our child. I promise you. And you said it yourself, our baby protected you."

"I know. I just worry sometimes."

Killian pulled her to him, tucking her head under his chin. "I'm scared too, lass," he admitted. "I don't know the first thing about being a father. But I do know that we'll find a way to stay together, all of us."

"I think you're doing a fine job so far, Captain," Snow cut in. Killian looked over at her, his arms still around Emma, and nodded gratefully. He remembered the talk they had on the Jolly Roger after Emma went to find the King. It took a lot to earn his respect, but after their adventure, he had nothing but respect and fondness for the pretty petite Queen. She loved as fiercely and completely as Killian himself did, especially when it came to family.

Snow resumed her seat across from them. "Well, here it is! Are you sure you want this, Emma? You could just be surprised."

Emma sat up and shook her head. "I want to know, we want to know." Killian nodded beside her. Perhaps it would feel more real if they knew.

"Very well." Snow handed Emma the amulet and stepped back. Killian held on to Emma's left hand as the right held the amulet out in front of her. It started to swing but what that meant Killian had no idea.

"Is that all?" he asked, a bit let down.

But Emma was smiling; she shared a happy glance with her mother. "It's north-south, isn't it?"

"Indeed it is," replied Snow White.

"What? What's going on?"

Emma grinned at him. "It means...we don't have to come up with a girl's name, Killian. We're having a son."

He blinked at her stupidly for a second, then his face erupted in a grin as he let go of her hand and moved his to her stomach. "Liam Jones," he said reverently, so happy he thought he would burst.

"You've picked out a name already?" Snow asked.

Emma nodded. "After Killian's brother," she explained.

"Well, I guess I should let Granny know so she can start knitting the right name onto his blanket!"

They stayed and chatted with the Queen for a little while longer, Killian sharing some stories of his brother. It seemed that knowing his brother would live on in some small way...it was beginning to heal that crack in his heart. In fact, being around Emma's family—which was his now as well—made him feel far more content than he'd expected.

At length though, the Queen had insisted she take Emma off to begin the process of picking out gowns for the upcoming special events. Emma didn't seem overly enthusiastic, but Killian whispered to her that the sooner she got it over with, the sooner she could see him again. He thought it best to appease the Queen for the time being. He would be fine on his own.

He said goodbye to Emma and headed down to the dock. He didn't really need anything; he just wanted to see his ship. He still wasn't sure what to do about her. Just that he couldn't give her up. Emma was right; the Jolly was their home, the place where they'd fallen in love. And now that Killian was having a son of his own, he wanted to take little Liam out sailing on the ship that had once belonged to his namesake.

So the question was...if Killian kept the Jolly, what should he do about his crew?

He pushed the dilemma aside and went around the decks, making sure everything was still shipshape. They had only been at the castle for a couple of weeks now, so nothing was amiss that he could see. Satisfied, he went back to his quarters and dug around for his satchel, intending to take a few things back to their suite.

"Kind of small for two people."

Killian turned, his stance instantly tensing. It seemed to be his default state when Emma's father was around. "We managed. The Captain gets privacy, not space, your highness."

David stepped further into the room. "You should have seen some of the places Snow and I had to sleep in when we were fighting Regina."

"From what Emma has told me, it sounds like an epic tale."

David laughed dryly. "We may have...embellished a bit when she was little."

"Are you sure you weren't a pirate in another life, mate?" Killian joked. He was still tense, but this seemed to be a very different man from the one he had met in that tavern.

David laughed again, a bit more pleased this time. It reminded Killian of Emma's laugh. Then the King's face grew serious. "Look, I know...I know we didn't exactly...take to each other right away. Which is mostly my fault. I can't say I ever imagined my only daughter married to a pirate."

"Your highness..."

David held up a hand. "Let me finish. I did imagine her with someone who loved her more than their own life, who could give her the kind of home and family she deserved. It may not be ideal circumstances, but I'm not blind, Captain. I see the way you two look at each other. The joy in my daughter's face whenever she is with you. Her happiness is all that I want for her."

"As do I. I'd do anything for her."

"Facing Rumplestiltskin was very brave."

Killian shrugged, not trying to garner the King's praise. The only opinion that truly mattered to him was Emma's, but he knew that him getting on with her family was important to her. "It was the only choice," he said simply.

"I think I'm starting to see what Emma was talking about."

"That I'm devilishly handsome?"

"That you possess a good heart." David nodded once and turned to leave, but he paused in the doorway. "Thank you for allowing us to restage your wedding. It means a lot to me, to get a bit of that moment back. Perhaps when you have your daughter you'll understand."

"Might be a while for that, mate. We've just been to see the Queen."

"Snow...why...oh, the amulet. I should have known. What did it say?"

"That your grandson will be here in a little over seven months."

David smiled. "Grandson. Wow."

Killian huffed, his eyes widening a bit. "You're telling me, Dave."

"Scared?"

"Bloody terrified, to be honest." What sort of father had a hook for a hand?

"I was too, when Snow told me she was pregnant with Emma. Regina was still out there, trying to destroy us. I...wasn't sure I could protect them."

Killian's face hardened. "I'll kill anyone who gets near them."

If his outburst bothered the King, he gave no sign. "You won't have to do this alone, Captain. This family sticks together. We'll protect them, I promise you."

Their little talk quickly turned into an afternoon together, with Killian and the King swapping stories of their adventures. He found that the King was an excellent drinker and card player, which endeared him to Killian. By the time he headed back to their suite, Killian as sure that he and the King could, at the very least, be friends.

He hoisted the satchel up over his head, strap across his body as he wove through the halls. The castle was huge, with people bustling about everywhere. Most now at least knew him by sight, knew he belonged there. He was still dressed like a pirate, unwilling to change, despite Snow's not so subtle hints. He may be on the verge of giving up his life at sea, but he stubbornly held onto some things, not wanting to lose himself completely to his new life.

He stopped by the Queen's solar, looking for Emma, but was told she'd gone back to their suite some time ago. Shrugging, he headed there, hoping she wasn't asleep. She'd been so tired in the early stages of her pregnancy, spent so much time sleeping, he couldn't help but miss her. A bit selfish perhaps, considering she was carrying his child, but they'd gotten used to being together whenever they wanted. These past few weeks had been an adjustment for him, despite his desire to take care of her.

Killian listened at the door, but couldn't really hear anything through the heavy oak. But he could see light flickering under the slit; a fire had been lit. It was only October, but the air was definitely getting cooler. He just hoped that the weather held for the surprise he had planned for Emma's upcoming birthday.

Hoping that the fire meant that his princess was awake, Killian pushed open the door. "Love, you'll never guess who I spent the afternoon with..."

Any other words died on his tongue as his mouth fell open in a silent O.

Emma was awake. Awake, alert and gloriously, perfectly naked. Stretched out on a bearskin rug in front of the crackling fire, hands sliding over her flushed skin. She moaned his name softly; it seemed like she didn't even know he was there. But she was naked and touching herself and moaning his name and Killian was certain he'd never been more turned on in his life. His mouth went dry, his skin was hot and too tight and his cock was rock hard in seconds.

"Emma."

Her eyes fluttered open, the green almost completely swallowed by black. She gave him a slow grin, clearly pleased that he'd caught her like this. "There you are."

Killian swallowed as he watched her small hands knead the soft swells of her breasts. "You are a vision, love."

"I missed you," she replied, giving him a far too adorable pout under the circumstances.

"I can tell."

"I think you should join me."

Killian was already pulling the satchel over his head, tossing it into a nearby chair. He stripped, slower than initially intended, knowing Emma's eyes were on him. She loved staring at his toned physique and he knew it. He left out a sigh when he cock sprang free, bobbing against his stomach. Emma bit her lip as she watched, one hand slipping down between her parted thighs. The fire gave her pale skin a warm glow, enhancing her already beautiful form.

He chucked his brace aside and crouched down, stretching out beside her. "It seems you missed me quite a lot," he observed, eye flickering between her face and the apex of her thighs.

"I...couldn't stop thinking about you," she admitted, her thumb brushing over the taut peak of her nipple. "Every gown I tried...I kept seeing you between my legs."

Killian groaned, head falling to rest on her shoulder. "Gods, Emma." He pressed kisses to her flushed skin, just needing to touch her. "Do you have all sorts of dirty fantasies about me right under your mother's nose?"

She nodded, too far gone to be ashamed. "Ever since the mirror..."

"Tell me, love. Tell what scandalous things you've dreamed about." His hand drifted down to his cock, fingers wrapping around it lightly.

Her fingers were circling her clit now, rubbing slowly. "You, under a table, head between my legs while there's some boring meeting going on," she replied softly. "Your mouth on me, making me come without anyone knowing."

"Fuck. What else?"

"The...oh gods...throne room. Sitting up there while I suck your cock."

"Bloody hell, Emma." He knew she was a wanton thing, his princess, but sweet merciful gods. "What else?"

"I..." She opened her eyes, looking directly into his. "I want to watch you," she said clearly. "I want to watch you touch yourself."

Killian raised a brow at her, able to tell by her tone that she'd thought about that particular fantasy for quite a while. "The princess likes to watch, does she?" he asked, moving to kneel between her thighs. His hand continued to slowly pump his cock, her eyes following every movement. "Such a naughty girl, love."

"Please, Killian," she begged. As if he would deny her. The fact that she was asking at all was driving him crazy. He loved experimenting with her.

"Together," he breathed, his eyes flickering back down to the hand between her legs. He wanted to see just what this did to her, how hot it made her. He just couldn't get enough. "And then I'm fucking you, lass."

"Anything. Just don't stop." Her hips rolled into her hand, fingers gliding easily through her folds. She was soaked and aching, as aroused as he'd ever seen her. He moved his hand faster, a shudder racing through him. This was all he'd had for far too many weeks after they'd missed each other at the gate. When he couldn't get her out of his head, each time leaving him half mad with want. And now she was here, spread out like a veritable feast before him, begging to let her watch him pleasure himself. How was this even his life?

Emma whimpered as she slipped two fingers inside her dripping cunt, the sight making Killian groan. "That's it, darling. Show me. I want to see you." She was gorgeous like this, golden hair shining like a halo, pale skin tinged with yellow and orange, eyes black with want, pink lips parted in a breathy moan.

"Killian...gods." She bit her lip, trying to reign herself in, to go slow, to make it last, but they were both too far gone now. Killian's hand moved faster, thumb swiping the tip with practiced strokes; the sight of her before him, getting herself off for him, making it almost impossible to hold back.

"Close," he bit out, feeling his release just a hairsbreadth away. "Fuck."

"I want to see you come," Emma demanded, her voice as equally as strained as his. "Come for me, Killian."

That was all it took. "Emma!" he roared, his release spurting out over her stomach, fist pumping until he was spent. This time it was Emma following him, as she pinched her clit hard, fingers pumping in and out. She cried out his name as her back arched off the rug, her release ripping through her. She was beautiful.

Killian collapsed over her leg, breathing hard. "You are incredible," he mumbled, bringing her hand to his lips. He sucked her fingers clean, knowing he'd have to go fetch something to clean them up better. But he needed a moment to catch his breath.

Emma sighed happily as he finally managed to heave himself up to get a washcloth. He soaked it in the basin and returned, sitting cross legged at her side, gently cleaning her skin of the drying evidence of their tryst. When he was finished, he folded the cloth and brushed the clean part over her sweaty forehead. "All better, lass?"

"Yeah, thank you, Killian."

He grinned, tossing the washcloth away. "Next time you want something that badly, love, just ask."

"Was it that obvious?"

Killian stretched out next to her, rolling her onto her side so that her back was to his chest. "I've caught you staring before, love. Our very first time, if memory serves," he said chuckling, wrapping his arm around her, hand spread protectively over her stomach. "It's nothing to be ashamed of."

"I just...didn't know how to ask. You're better at that than I am."

"Oh, I don't know about that, love. Those are some pretty racy fantasies you've got there." He kissed her shoulder. "Which I will happily enact with you, should you ever desire."

"A bit cocky there, Captain." He could hear her grin.

Killian laughed. "Oh, I think we both know you like your cocky pirate captain."

She wriggled back against him, making him groan softly. "Well, you're very...talented in that area."

"And you are an insatiable siren, darling."

"Lucky for you?"

He nuzzled the back of her neck, nose buried in her golden hair. "And you're all mine," he growled softly.

Emma moaned, her hips rocking back against him involuntarily. "Gods, Killian...more."

It took him a moment to figure what she was asking for; he'd hardly touched her. Then he realized. His voice; she was getting turned on by his voice in her ear. He wondered if this was another little fantasy of hers. It would certainly explain a lot, since Killian certainly wasn't quiet when they were together.

"Minx," he muttered, pressing kisses along the curve of her shoulder. "You like this, don't you? Listening to me. Telling you all the things I want to do to you."

Emma nodded, reaching down to bring his hand to her breast, rubbing his palm over the already hardened peak. "Please, Killian. Make me come. Please."

So she had been thinking about it. Killian groaned, wondering what other delicious dirty fantasies she'd been keeping from him. This would be a challenge, but Killian Jones never backed down from a challenge. "You can't touch," he said, tugging on her earlobe with his teeth. "Can you do that?"

Emma nodded again. "Gods, I wanted this," she whispered. "Forever."

"How long, love?" He was starting to get turned on too—already, gods, what was it that she did to him—he'd be more than ready for her after she found release.

"Your trial," she breathed.

"Fuck." They shared one look across the hall then. And she'd already wanted him. Gods, he loved her. "You are a bloody goddess, Emma." He twirled her nipple, pinching and pulling on the puckered flesh. Emma mewled, writhing against him. "I couldn't get you out of my head," he said in a low seductive voice. "Wondering how you'd feel under me, around me. Would have taken you right there, love."

Emma pressed her thighs together as she rocked back against him instinctively. "Oh gods."

"Even better than I imagined though. So warm and willing and tight. Feels so good around my cock, Emma." He scraped his teeth across the sensitive spot just under her ear, loving her needy moan of pleasure. "Love when you ride me, like you were born to. Buried deep inside your greedy cunt, screaming my name as you come."

Emma inhaled sharply, fingers curled into fists. "Close," she gasped. "Fuck."

"Let me hear you, Emma. Come for me," he growled, his lips close to her ear.

She fell apart before his eyes, crying out his name over and over like a prayer. He'd never seen anything like it; she was so responsive and wanton and she was all his.

Carefully, he rolled her back onto her back; his cock was straining and painfully hard. He hissed when it brushed against her flushed skin. "I need you, Emma," he pleaded. "Need you so much."

She nodded weakly, still dazed from her orgasm. Killian knelt between her legs, lifting them up onto his shoulders. Part of him wished he didn't need her so much, that he could take her with slow reverent strokes, but he was wound too tightly, watching her come twice drawing the pirate out, rather than the gentleman. He leaned over her, pressing her legs back toward her chest as he plunged inside her quivering wet heat.

He wasn't gentle, pushing into her with hard desperate plunges, knowing he wouldn't last long. He grunted, angling his hips until she cried out. He repeated it over and over, greedy enough to try and coax another orgasm from her. He loved feeling her squeeze him as as she came, knowing he was the one who brought that pleasure out of her.

Emma's fingers tangled in the soft bearskin rug, back arching off the floor. "Harder," she gasped. "Harder, Killian."

"Fuck." Killian did as she bid, bottoming out inside her. Emma shuddered; every thrust grinding against her aching clit. "Again, Emma," he demanded. "Again." He was painfully close to his own release, his brow dripping with sweat as he tried to hold it off until she shattered.

"Yes, yes, yes, yes!" Emma yelled as her whole body shook with the force of her orgasm. Her walls contracted painfully around him and Killian screamed hoarsely, his own orgasm hot and overwhelming. His hips rutted against hers, drawing out their pleasure, until he finally went still. He had just enough strength left to lower her legs and roll onto his side, panting.

"Alright there, love?" he managed, when he got some of his breath back.

Emma smiled lazily. "'M, fine."

His eyes drifted down to her stomach. "And the little one?"

"He's good too." She rolled closer to him, head resting on his chest. "Love you."

Killian wrapped his arm around her shoulder, kissing the top of her head. "I love you, my beautiful princess. And you, little Liam."

"Killian! Killian!"

Killian's eyes snapped open, heart instantly racing. Emma was next to him, thrashing wildly in the bed again. He tore the covers back and tried to get her still enough to wake her. She was still screaming his name, the panic and fright in her voice making his blood run cold.

"Wake up, Emma. It's just a dream." He cursed under his breath, cursed the Dark One, cursed magic, cursed all the gods he could think of for allowing his princess to go through this. He shook her shoulder again and again, but each time it got harder and harder to wake her. After the first nightmare, she'd gotten one every night and each time Killian rose, pulling her back from the flames. He'd light her candle and do his best to soothe her back to sleep. Sometimes he read. Sometimes he hummed an old sea shanty. Sometimes he merely stroked her hair with his good hand. But each time it happened his heart broke a little, as he wished there was something more he could do for her.

"Emma! Love, wake up!"

Finally, she woke, green eyes wide with fright in the early morning light. She clutched at him desperately, shaking like a leaf. "You're okay," she whispered.

"'M right here, lass. Right here." He kissed her temple gently, before rolling them onto his back, Emma tucked tightly against his side. "Everything's alright now." The first rays of sun were peaking through the drapes; there was no point in lighting her candle now. Killian knew he wasn't getting anymore sleep.

"It feels so real," Emma said softly. "All the time."

"Your mother said it was a whole other world, so I imagine that while you're there it is real." His good hand rubbed the arm she had thrown across his chest, doing his best to soothe her. "It appears that our little experiment didn't work though."

That got Emma to smile. "Your 'fuck Emma into exhaustion' plan? Worked pretty well from where I'm sitting."

"Lass..." He knew she was teasing, but the longer these nightmares went on the more agitated Killian became. He couldn't imagine that all the fright and terror was good for the baby. Emma and little Liam's well being was more important than anything else.

Emma hugged him tight. "I know," she said to his unspoken thought. "I'm worried too."

"There has to be something they can do for you. You're with child, damn it."

"Mother said hers went on for months."

Killian growled disapprovingly. "You are not going through this for months. I won't allow it."

"Killian, I knew the consequences when I underwent the curse."

"I don't care. I'm not losing you or our child because of the Dark One's petty machinations. Magic did this to you, magic can undo it. Or at least mitigate the effects. We'll find a way."

At daybreak, they got up and dressed; neither of them really able to sleep. Killian quietly fumed, noting the dark circles under her eyes, the heaviness in her limbs caused by lack of sleep. He hated seeing her like this, the light in her eyes slightly dimmed. This should be a happy time, with them preparing for balls and weddings and their son. Instead, they were awake at all hours, coping with the aftereffects of a curse.

Killian wrapped her arm around his and led them out through the corridors, intent on having a few words with his in laws.

But it appeared that the King and Queen did not wish to be found. Not in their apartments, Killian and Emma searched all the public rooms, wondering where they could be. There didn't seem to be any sort of emergency going on and David had promised to keep Killian apprised if there was any developments on the Rumplestiltskin front.

"Maria, have you seen my mother?" Emma asked one of the passing servants. Killian recognized her as the seamstress from the other day in the Queen's solar.

"She's at the Council meeting, my lady."

"Council meeting? I didn't know there was a Council meeting. Why didn't anyone tell me?"

Maria shrugged. "That I don't know, highness."

Emma dismissed her and turned to Killian. "I wonder what's going on?"

"Shall we go find out, love?"

"Definitely."

Emma led them to the large Council chamber; Killian could hear voices through the door. He pushed open the door and led Emma inside. The large round table was filled with official looking types, all wearing different livery.

"What the bloody hell is going on here?" Killian asked loudly.

Fifteen pairs of eyes turned to look at them. The King and Queen at least had the decency to look ashamed. Everyone else was curious.

"So is this him then?" one of the representatives asked in a condescending tone.

Killian stepped further into the light, temper flaring. "I'd watch your mouth, my lord," he said quietly. Killian may not have his sword, but he did have his hook. And it was just as deadly.

Snow stepped between them. "Yes, this is Captain Killian Jones, our daughter's fiancé." She turned to Killian and Emma. "Captain, these are the messengers from the various kingdoms come to make arrangements for the wedding."

Fiancé? What was that about? Some official nonsense, Killian suspected. And judging from the Queen's unease, there was something more about this meeting than a simple wedding. What game was the Queen playing at?

"Yes, we were almost finished," the King cut in, standing. "We're all very honored that your masters will be gracing us with their presence at the wedding. It's a great occasion, one I personally have looked forward to for many years. I wish you all safe travels."

These courtiers had the sense to know when they were dismissed. All of them rose, bowing at the King and Queen before taking their leave. A few stared openly at Killian as they filled past, casting wary glances at his hook.

When the door closed behind them, Killian rounded on his in laws. "Does anyone mind telling me what the bleeding hell that was all about?"

"Please, Captain, Emma. Sit. And we'll explain."

They did as Snow bid, Emma squeezing Killian's hand reassuringly. She was taking this better than he was, but then again she was used to all this royal intrigue. Killian much preferred a straight up fight.

"That wasn't just about the wedding, was it?" Emma asked.

"No," her father replied, retaking his seat. "I mean, it was, but there's more to it."

"And what was that fiancé business, mate?" Killian snapped. "Emma and I are already married."

"Yes," Snow said patiently. "But they don't know that. We thought it best to stage this as if it were your only wedding. It's what we did, after defeating Regina."

That mollified him a little. It seemed fitting to follow in their footsteps, so to speak. "I can't imagine that my recent death sentence helps matters."

Snow smiled kindly. "It's going to be...an adjustment for some, certainly. But you have our blessing. Everyone else will just have to deal with it."

"Says the Queen who married a shepherd."

"Exactly, Captain. Exactly."

"So if that wasn't just about the wedding, then what?" Emma asked again.

"We were sounding out some of the other kingdoms about an alliance. Against Rumplestiltskin," the King informed them. "The wedding will double as a treaty signing."

"And you were going to inform us of this...when?" Killian asked, his eyes hard. "We had a right to know." Anything that had to do with Rumplestiltskin was his business. It was his wife and child that were threatened.

"We wanted to see if it was possible," Snow said, trying to soothe him. "We didn't want to get your hopes up. We were planning on telling you as soon as everyone left. You just beat us to it."

Killian wasn't sure he was entirely happy with that explanation, but he let it go for Emma's sake. This was his world now too, he'd have to learn its rules. Fortunately, he was a quick study.

"How did it go? The negotiations?" Emma asked. She squeezed Killian's hand reassuringly.

"The Dark One's done something to almost all the kingdoms at some point; most of them were receptive. We didn't go into a lot of detail about what happened to you, but there was a lot of outrage. We'll see for sure at the wedding," the King said.

"Sounds like it's going to be quite the affair," Killian deadpanned.

"It won't ruin your day," Snow promised. "But a royal wedding is one of the few times when the ruling heads gather. It seemed like the best option."

"A few are coming for the ball," David added. "Frederick and Abigail. Ariel and Eric. I think Philip and Aurora are coming as well. Most of them are eager to meet you, Killian."

"Me or Captain Hook?" Killian asked knowingly.

"Honestly? Both."

Killian gave him a sardonic grin. "Fair enough, mate."

"But you obviously came here wanting to talk about something else," Snow said.

Killian looked at Emma. "Her nightmares are getting worse."

"Oh Emma," Snow said worriedly, coming to examine her daughter. "You look exhausted, dear."

"Isn't there anything we can do?" Killian asked. "I'm not just worried about her, but the baby too."

"I don't know," Snow said sadly. "Are you getting any sleep, Emma?"

"Some, but I always wind up in that room. Then I wake up screaming."

The Queen shared a concerned look with her husband. "We can ask the Blue Fairy, but I don't know if her magic will be enough."

A moment later a bright blue light pulsed, getting bigger as it came into the room. Killian blinked once and tiny, pretty fairy hovered not far from Snow's head. "You called, dear Snow White?"

"That was fast, Blue," Snow said suspiciously.

The Blue Fairy's cheeks went pink. "We've been watching the princess since she returned from the Dark One's castle."

"You were watching her and you let this happen?" Killian demanded, standing, outraged.

"We didn't know if the curse would affect her the same way, pirate," the brunette fairy snapped. "She's got magic."

"You knew I had magic?" Emma cried. "How long?"

"Since you were born. You're the product of True Love, Emma."

"Why didn't we know?" David asked, mirroring Killian's stance. "We're her parents, we should have known."

"It had to develop on its own," the Blue Fairy explained. "She's unique."

"And she is right here," Emma exclaimed, getting to her feet. "What do I have to do to make the nightmares stop?"

"I don't know if we can get them to stop entirely," the fairy said sadly. "But we can lessen their effects. If you're willing to learn."

"Learn what?"

"To control your magic. To use it properly. You're powerful, Emma. So powerful the Dark One is terrified of you."

"He didn't seem very terrified."

"He didn't tell you about the prophecy?"

"What prophecy?" Killian asked.

"The one that tells of the savior, the one powerful enough to destroy the Dark One once and for all."

Emma laughed. "Me? Destroy the Dark One? You have got to be kidding."

"I assure you, Emma. I am not. That's why he wants your magic. If he can take it from you, then he is safe."

"But he couldn't."

"Only due to the child you carry. Once that child is born, you'll be vulnerable once more. You must learn to use your magic. It's the only way."