AN: So, here's the next one!

Disclaimer: I don't own OUAT.

The short, black haired woman stares pensively at the window sill, trying to will the bird she had sent to reappear.

"Mary, you know it will take time," her husband reasons in an attempt to soothe her. It doesn't help.

"I know, David, but I'm just so worried!" The queen sighs, plopping down next to her husband on their bed.

"I know, dear, I know," he murmurs, placing her head on his shoulder. "I'm just as worried sick as you are."

"I hope Emma's at least giving Captain Hook hell," Mary Margaret mutters.

The king chuckles. "She wouldn't be our Emma if she didn't fight."

Both of them laugh. Their daughter had inherited her mother's fighting spirit and tenacity.

The royal couple had been utterly distraught over the news of their daughter and future son-in-law having been kidnapped by the nefarious Captain Hook and his crew. The king and queen worry day and night, waiting for some sign that their daughter was okay. The only knowledge that she was unharmed came from the ransom note Hook had sent not long after the news had reached their ears and obviously, a pirate's note wasn't exactly something that could be trusted.

The couple had not intention of paying the ransom, of course. They would, however, ensure that Captain Hook would be caught and imprisoned for his crimes. They just hope that he won't hurt their only daughter in the process.

"I hope he falls for my trick," David mumbles.

"He's a pirate, dear, he probably saw right through it," the queen says. The king, in a futile attempt, had tried to set a trap for the pirate. However, the queen knows the scoundrel probably saw the lie right away.

The two sit in silence, quietly comforting one another, knowing there's not much they can do at the moment. As they sit, a loud pop resonates in the room and something clatters against the water basin on the dresser. The couple looks toward the dresser in confusion.

David gets up and grabs what appears to be a bottle out of the water.

"Where did that come from?" the queen asks.

"I don't know, but there's a message inside." Carefully, he removes the cork and the piece of paper from inside the glass. As he opens it up, his eyes widen. "It's from Emma!"

"Really? What does it say?" Mary Margaret demands, her tone anxious, rushing to peer over his shoulder.

The king reads:

Dearest Mother and Father,

I shall let you know that I miss you dearly and that I unharmed, truly.

"Oh thank the gods," the queen sighs in relief.

I have been working on the ship as a cook, if you can believe it. Sebastian and I help one of Captain Hook's men with meals. I also help wherever else I'm needed, including taking notes for the captain. And since I'm sure you're wondering, no, Captain Hook has not lay a hand on me. If he had tried, I would have made him pay for it, trust me. However, speaking of the captain…

He's both like the legends and stories we've heard about him, but also not. He can be ruthless, sure, but only when warranted. He is fair, generous, and kind to his crew and me. Admittedly, we have formed a friendship of sorts and he trusts me. I'm sure you both are scoffing at this, thinking I've gone mad, but there is more to Hook than the pirate. He's certainly a better man than I thought he would be. Speaking of, I'm sure you're wondering why I haven't mentioned Prince Neal.

First and foremost, I must inform you that I have broken off my engagement with Neal. I have discovered that he is vile and has been uncouth in his behavior toward me. While I will not go into much detail at this point, I will say that he wished me to be more of a slave than a wife and took steps to fulfill his desires. Thankfully, Hook helped me see what Neal was planning and we put a stop to it. I have no desire to marry such a man and I hope you understand why I needed to break off the arrangement. I will tell you more about when I return home.

Anyway, Hook has promised to take me home at some point, but he hasn't said when. I'm free to do as I wish on the ship and therefore, I will continue to write letters to you.

I miss you dearly and hopefully I can be home soon.

All my love,

Emma

P.S. Father, Hook saw right through your trap. You'll probably get a letter from him shortly concerning that.

The king raises his eyes from the letter and stares at his wife, concern shining in her eyes.

"I don't know what to think," the queen groans. "I want to say that this her writing the letter, but breaking off the engagement with Prince Neal? She said Hook told her something that Neal was doing."

"I don't quite understand it either, dear." Had the pirate brainwashed her? "Why would she trust Captain Hook?"

Mary Margaret shrugs. "Who knows? Maybe she is telling the truth and that Neal did something that hurt her." She begins to pace their chambers. "Emma's always been one to think straight and know the facts before making a decision, especially one so significant as this."

"But if Hook has manipulated her somehow…" the king trails off, shaking his head.

"I just want her home, David!" his wife says, her voice close to a wail.

He gathers her in his arms, pressing his chin to the top of her head. "I know, sweetheart, I do too. Once we get Emma back, we'll set everything right."

Captain Hook will pay for what he's done, David would see to it that the man was in irons once the ship docked in Misthaven. However, the king's main concern is bringing his daughter home, safe and sound.

He just needs to think of another way to trap the the nefarious Captain Hook without putting Emma in harm's way.

Killian awakes before the sun comes up, as he always does. As his brain slowly clears from the fog of sleep, he registers something rest on his chest. Peering down, he sees a mess of blonde hair and he smiles, recalling how Emma had stayed with him last night.

Oh Emma. What did he do to deserve her? When he'd told her his story, he didn't see Pitt or disgust in her eyes, only understanding. She had tried to comfort him about Milah and Liam. And she stayed with him too.

Gently running his fingers through her hair, Killian gazes at her, taking in her peaceful state. Her expression is relaxed, little snores escaping her lips. It's quite adorable. As much as he wants to remain in bed with her, he has to get up.

Careful as not to wake her, he slowly gets up, sliding Emma into the bed. However, she must sense his movements because she tightens her hold on him.

"Don't get up yet," she mumbles, cracking one eye open.

He chuckles. "As much as I would love to stay, love, I have to check on the ship and see what damage was done." He's sure the ship maintained some damage from the storm.

"I'll get up then too," she says, rising and stretching. She runs her fingers through her hair to improve her appearance, not that he thinks she needs it, before following him onto the deck.

The captain sees that some of the crew is already up, likely inspecting the ship. "Status report!" he demands and Sinn is the one who responds.

"The ship wasn't knocked off course, but the she has some damage. Planks of wood were stripped from the left side, one sail has been completely shredded and two barrels of supplies fell over board."

"What was in them?"

Sinn shrugs. "Just some flour and other minor supplies, nothing that can't be replaced."

The pirate sighs. "Alright, we need to stop at the next port then, which from what I recall is about a day away."

Emma, who's been quiet up to this point, says, "I'm surprised the ship received so much damage."

"The Jolly Roger may be protected by magic, Swan, but it still gets hit like any other ship." He rubs his fingers against his temple. "Thankfully, the damage isn't too bad, but I wasn't expecting to stop so soon."

"Anything I can do?" Emma asks.

Killian purses his lips, thinking. "Go down into the storage space and see if you can dig up any spare supplies from your inventory. Anything that can help us for the time being." The princess nods before scurrying down to the hull.

The captain turns, only to see Sinn grinning at him. "What?"

"You and the princess, eh?" He smirks

"I don't believe that's any of your business."

The fellow crew member gives him a congratulatory slap on the back. "Ah, good for you. Some of us were taking bets on when you two would finally get yourselves together."

Killian glares. "It's not like that."

"Don't worry Cap'n, we mean it in a good way. The way you two look at each other brings tears to my eyes, it's beautiful."

"Right." Feeling himself blush, the pirate waves his hook. "Replace the sails and make sure we're prepared to drop anchor by tomorrow night."

"Aye aye, Captain."

Just then, Emma returns, a bundle of cloth and rope in her arms. "I found some things to replace the sail and rope." He grins at her eagerness. She makes a good pirate. He's not quite sure if he should tell her that. Though, knowing his Swan, she'd probably be thrilled at the idea.

"Good. Now, let's get to work."

They make good time arriving at the next port, Port Linton mid afternoon the following day.

"Every heard of this place, love?" Killian asks the princess as they approach the pier.

"Surprisingly, no. Maybe because it's small?" She shrugs. "You ever been here?"

"Once, a while ago. It's a bit more pirate friendly, but we still need to be wary." Depending on where they drop anchor, some villagers will report pirate sightings to the authorities in order get a reward.

They drop anchor and the crew hurries off the ship to get the supplies needed. Killian doesn't plan on being here longer than a day, allowing the crew to have some fun at night.

"I know you said you didn't have any real plan of where you're going," Emma says as they wander into town, their hands linked together. "But do you have an idea?"

"I was thinking of going to Agrabah, but I'm still thinking on it. Why?"

She shrugs. "Just wondering." However, there's an underlying uncertainty in her tone, causing him to turn and look at her. He raises an eyebrow as she ducks her head. "Sorry, I just- I really miss my parents and my home, okay? I know you said you'd bring me back eventually. And it doesn't even have to be for long, just to show them I'm okay and-"

"Swan," he chuckles softly. "It's fine. If you really want to go home, I can take you home."

The thought of her leaving makes his heart ache. So soon after starting a relationship together?

"Like I said, it doesn't have to be for long. It would really be for my parents to see that I'm fine."

He grins at the implication of her words. She wants to stay with him, on his ship and travel the seas. The images the idea conjures up make his heart swell. Her standing by him as he steers the ship, Emma giving orders to the crew, and them spending nights together in his cabin. Yes, he would love that.

"Then it's settled, I will set course to take you home."

"Thank you," she breathes, placing a gentle kiss on his lips.

They make their way into the town market, both of them haggling prices for supplies. Emma is very good at getting a bargain, particularly with the male sellers. They become insistently smitten with her as she flashes a charming smile while showcasing her astuteness.

As they shop, Killian notices more of his kind wandering the area, bartering as he and Emma do. He tries to speed up their shopping, having no desire to interact with other pirates that don't include his own crew. However, just as they move further into town, Killian hears his moniker being called.

"Hook!" a familiar voice shouts. He cringes, tightening his grip on Swan's hand.

"You know him?" she inquires.

"Unfortunately. I apologize in advance for whatever comes out of my mouth, love." The captain turns to face the fellow pirate, plastering a smarmy grin on face. "Hello, Scab. Long time no see."

"Aye, it's been too long, Captain." The man grins, his yellow teeth flashing, green eyes shifting between him and Emma. "I see you have a new woman."

"What have you been up to, Scab?" Killian asks, wanting to keep the focus off of Swan.

"Ah, same old, same old, pillaging, trading, the usual." Killian remains stoic at the mention of trading, knowing Scab means slavery. Stepping closer, the blonde haired pirate looks around before whispering, "I hear you have yourself a princess."

"What's it to you?" Scab was no stranger to kidnapping, so what should it matter to him?

"The royal family is offering a pretty penny for her return, you see, and me and my crew are a bit tight on coin at the moment…"

"Not a chance," the captain hisses.

"Oh come on, Hook, help a fellow pirate out. I'm sure she's a pain to deal with anyway."

"She's an excellent bed warmer, I'll have you know." Killian lets the words slip off his tongue with ease. "I haven't had my fill of her, yet." He's really hoping Emma doesn't get pissed at him.

"I see." Shrugging, Scab beams. "Well, if you change your mind, I'll be in the tavern tonight."

"Noted." The two pirates nod before Scab saunters off.

Killian and Emma walk into town a bit further before he speaks, "Swan, I'm sorry, I-"

She rolls her eyes. "It's fine, I knew you were just playing a part." She places a peck on his cheek. "I know you have to be a different person around other pirates, in order to maintain your reputation and all."

Letting out a snort, he brings her hand to his cheek. "I love you."

She smiles. "Love you too." Dragging him further, she winks. "Now, let's finish shopping. Your bed warmer needs some things too." He laughs, letting her guide.

How did he get so lucky?

After delivering supplies onto the ship, Killian makes sure to double check the coordinates for Misthaven in his cabin. After ensuring the correct route, he takes a quick inventory of everything. Thankfully, they have more than enough supplies to last them for a few weeks.

"Want to go to the tavern, love?" he asks Emma, who's currently scribbling down some more notes.

Her face brightens at the question. "Sure! I need a break anyway."

The two make their way down the gangplank, watching the sun set as they make their way further into town.

"I feel like all taverns are the same," she muses. "The one here looks like the one in Port Sarim and the one there looks like the one at home."

He chuckles at her observation. "You're not wrong. Most taverns have the same basic setup. They know what keeps customers coming and try to keep it that way."

"Of course."

They enter the tavern and Killian's eyes immediately scan the room, noting there's more pirates here than he'd initially thought. Most of them appear to occupied with a card game, all of them sitting at one table.

"Oi, look, it's Captain Hook," one of them calls.

Killian saunters over with Emma, smirking. "I don't want to interrupt your game, men."

"Ya won't," another says. "Why don't you join in? Unless the lady is opposed to it?"

"She is not," Emma answers simply, sitting in one of the empty chairs.

"Feisty one you've got there, Hook," one of the older ones in the group states.

"Aye, I just can't seem to rein her in," he jokes, taking a seat next to her. "So, what are we playing?"

"Just regular old cards. Want to play a round?" one responds. Killian realizes he's doesn't know any of these pirates and therefore, doesn't quite know how to deal with them.

"I'm afraid I must decline for the moment," he says smoothly. He wants to get a read on the men first before venturing into a card game with them. Just then, he hears a familiar snicker.

"Is the infamous Captain Hook scared to lose some money?" Scab sneers.

Killian raises an eyebrow. "Last I checked, you lost quite bit of money to me the last game we played."

"That won't be happening this time," Scab promises.

"Suit yourself." Turning to Emma, he asks, "Would you like to play?" He ignores the other pirates' scoffs. Since his Swan frequents taverns at home, it wouldn't surprise him if she'd been privy to a card game or two.

She grins. "Sure!"

All of the players bet various amounts of coin, which they throw to the center of the table. Killian is modest with his bet, not wanting to waste too much on gambling after being in the market all day. The princess bets a few coins as well before the game commences.

The game goes on, and pirates being pirates, have their fill of alcohol as they play, Emma nursing her mug and Killian doing the same. Tonight is not a night to get roaring drunk.

As the game progresses, the players slowly decrease, and Killian eventually losing out on a turn to Emma, leaving Emma and Scab as the last two players standing. There's a huge pile of coins on the table, some of the players having increased their bets along the way.

Emma raises an eyebrow at the older pirate, who smirks.

"I've got you beat, lass." He chortles. "A clean sweep."

She scoffs, a knowing look in her eyes. "Liar. I bet you've got nothing."

"But I do," he sneers.

"Then show me," she says, calling his bluff. The captain glances between the two of them, seeing Scab begin to sweat. "Come on, Scab, surely you can beat me."

Scab throws down his cards in response to her taunt and upon seeing his hand, Swan laughs.

"I win, straight flush." She lays her cards out and Scab growls in frustration. "Thank you so much, boys," she says as she gathers the coins to her side of the table.

"Cheater!" Scab proclaims.

"For a pirate, you're a sore loser," she snickers, loading all the coins in multiple bags on her belt.

The blonde haired pirate just growls in response and Killian figures it would be a good time to make themselves scarce.

The captain drags her out of the tavern, feeling her vibrate with laughter.

"I can't believe his face," she states as they make their way back to the ship.

"How did you get to be so good at cards, love?"

She shrugs. "Dealing with people in the court has forced me to learn how to read people well, lest they try to manipulate me."

Ah, that makes sense.

They stop at the gangplank, the coins jingling on her belt. Killian stops and turns to gaze at her, taking in the flush on her cheeks, her heavy breathes from laughing, the light in her green eyes, making them shine like emeralds.

"What?" She cocks her head.

"Nothing, just you're a bloody marvel, love." He places his hand on her cheek before leaning in and giving her a passionate kiss on the lips."Now, let's go count our winnings." She raises an eyebrow.

"You mean my winnings."

He rolls his eyes. "Yes, yes, your winnings. Whatever. Now let's go!"

The next morning Killian wakes to a pounding his door.

"What's going on?" Emma mumbles from next to him, still fully clothed.

"I'll see, Swan," he says. He rises and opens the door to see Smee panting, as if he'd just been running

"We've got a problem, Captain," he starts. "Apparently, someone snitched on us about the princess and now the royal guard is headed this way!"

Shit.

"It's probably, Scab, still sore from losing last night," Killian mutters.

Emma approaches the door, an expression of guilt on her face. "I'd completely forgotten to tell you that my parents had sent soldiers out to look for me. But, I didn't think they'd show up here."

"Not your fault," Killian dismisses. Addressing Smee, he says, "Tell the men to hoist anchor. It's time we leave anyway."

"Are the soldiers close by?" Swan prods.

"I could just about see them from the railing before I came in here. Why?"

"Tell the men to hoist anchor as the captain said, but move away from the dock slowly."

"Love, what are you doing?" What is she up to?

"You'll see," she responds before scurrying onto the deck, him following after her. Sure enough, there's a small horde of soldiers on the dock, their swords drawn.

"Your Highness," the leader calls. "We're here to bring you home. You're safe now." Apparently, the man doesn't notice ship slowly moving away from the port.

Emma shakes her head. "Tell mother and father I'll be home soon, okay? I'm staying here. Please, let them know that you've seen and know that I'm okay."

"You're not safe, Princess," the man calls.

"Mathias, I'll be fine, I promise. Tell my parents I ordered you to go home."

"But Your Highness-"

"No, I'm ordering you to go home!" she shouts, the ship a good distance away from the pier. "Do as I say or I'll have you removed from service."

Mathias's crestfallen expression is the last thing Killian sees before the boat is too far from land to see anything.

"Would you really have him removed?" the pirates asks her.

She snorts. "No, I just did that to scare him." Turning to him, her eyes narrow into slits. "You are taking me home, right?"

He sighs. "Yes, love, I am taking you home."

"Good because otherwise I'm really going to hear it from my parents about trusting a pirate," she grumbles. "Anyway, off to the kitchen I go." After giving him a quick peck on the cheek, she saunters off to the galley.

Ignoring the few wolf whistles he hears, Killian goes to the helm, barking,

"Alright men, let's set course for Misthaven!"

He just hopes that this isn't the ship's, or his, last voyage on the seas.