AN - Sorry it's been some time posting. Had to think about what was going
on in the story and where things were leading because I think I've gone off
track from my original plans. Anyway, this chapter is quite long but it
sets up things.
Disclaimer: I own nothing except Sarah and other minor characters.
* * *
Chapter Nine - Partings, returns and appearances
Three days had passed and Neverland was still the same. The bad weather had kicked in, some say, a sign of Peters mood, but he was still far from Neverland never the less.
Sarah's body ached, but a smile was still plastered on her face that couldn't be wiped off easily. James promised every night since their love making to visit her and he did.
He had retreated back to his ship to man his crew that morning, feeling less than confident that Smee was managing alright.
The three days had given Sarah time to think, to be free of Peter and to think for herself. The only thought that stayed in her mind from her old life was one of guilt she had towards the lost tribe and leaving them so suddenly. She had been there for them, an 'adult' compared to most, to care for the younger ones. She knew the other girls would be taking charge, mainly Summer who had the guidance of Slightly, but she feared for their safety from anything, it was just an instinct she had grown.
James was sailing off the coast of Neverland in his own affairs, obviously resuming his word with Banbury to look for the other pirate ship that had docked near Pearl sands many days ago. The idea of not having him around upset her but he insisted he had to go.
"I have to leave, Sarah, I can't just spend all my time with you. One must carry on with his career. My life is piracy; you know that, it never stops, not even for me."
"Then I'll come with you, keep you company." Sarah ended her sentence with a smirk.
James smiled but cut it short. "You know I've told you before, I don't want you on my ship, its no place for you."
Sarah dropped her smile.
"Think of it this way, I'll see you in two days." He added.
Sarah raised a mischievous eyebrow.
"I don't think I can wait?" She smirked.
"It'll be worth the wait." James insisted.
"When will I see you, honestly?"
"A few days, possibly three."
Sarah smiled at him and placed a few light kisses on his lips, holding him tightly before he left her room.
The sudden loss of her lover had given the room coldness, or so she thought.
Before James had gone, he'd warned her not to stray far, like he had when he first met her. Ravens town was still a dangerous place even if you knew people in high places.
...................
The afternoon approached Neverland quickly and the Sun burned bright in the sky. The trees brought much shade and coolness and Nibs was extremely glad for it.
The young man had been travelling since morning. Sweat laid on his brow and his face which usually looked dirty, was even more so, from his travels. He'd made his way past the Indian lands and towards a place feared by many but Pan.
Black castle looked grim in the light and even more so at night and Nibs thanked the heavens it was daylight. The suns rays seemed not hit the grey stone and the waves crashed on the rocks oozing the lands darkness. There was quietness about, only because it was rumoured that the infamous crocodile swam in these waters and pirates still dwelled here. No one ventured here unless under extreme circumstances. Nibs rolled his eyes as the thought entered his head and proceeded stubbornly towards the crumbling castle. He dived into the waters that lead towards the opening of the castle, surprised to see its gate ajar. Swimming silently, Nibs' body gracefully glided in the water, his strong arms and legs, powerfully moving him faster. He slid under the gate, his eyes open in the murky water looking for signs of inhabitants. It there were two things Nibs prided himself on; it was his skill of fighting and his strength and agility with swimming. A thought of how Curly had once accused him of being a descendent of a mermaid because of his swimming ability popped in his head but his smile didn't appear.
The darkness of the castle was creepy and Nibs, brave as he was, couldn't help but feel a shiver run down his spin. He swam to one of the larger rocks and surfaced only his eyes above water level. The old decaying corpses laid mangled in each other, small bits of decayed flesh hanging off the latest arrivals. The sight didn't scare him only the prospect that he'd be out numbered if there were anyone about. No torches lit any darkness.
Black castle was still for the time being and Nibs hoisted himself out of the water carefully. No sign of movement could be heard or seen but Nibs drew his knife carefully, his eyes looking around in a frenzy as he moved about in the pitch black. The fact came to him that Black castle was far more intimidating when you knew know one was there and that the darker shadows looked more menacing, hiding blacker darkness.
Nibs had walked around carefully, silently stepping cautiously, alert as ever for any noise.
His venture felt in vain. He knew Curly wouldn't be here, this was no place for any type of lost boy or girl but he knew no one else would look for him here, not even Slightly.
Nibs sat down on a rock rubbing his brow. In the past few days his own mind had caught up with himself. The fact that Curly could be dead sparked it and for once in his life he actually felt lost. He didn't like the lost tribe or Peter but he had trust in one of its valued members and now that he'd gone, there wasn't any trust left for him to count on. Nibs didn't want to spoon feed kids or become a babysitter, instead he wanted to flee. He'd enjoyed his time with the tribe in their younger days but that was until the darlings had arrived. Pan had changed and at the time, he didn't know whether for the better.
Nibs sank into the water once more and bobbed around for a second glance. He took a deep breath and prepared to dive into the water but a call made him release his breath and frantically search for the owner of the voice.
"Nibs?" A voice called.
Nibs instantly recognized the voice belonging to Curly. He apprehensively headed towards the sound unsure whether it could be one of Peters mimicking tricks. The truth was revealed next to the large ornamental crocodile.
Nibs' eyes widened as he saw the crippled form of Curly, crawling towards him from the shadows. His skin was as white a sheet and he looked thinner. His body was covered in dirt and his clothes were grubby and ripped. His beautiful curly hair was muddy and mangled.
"What the hell happened to you?" Nibs cried skidding to his friend, his knees grazing in the process.
"Pan. I had to fight him Nibs. I had to let Sarah run, he would have killed her."
Nibs hushed him and looked him over, seeing the faint bruises over his face and body. His breathing was shallow and his eyes were in slits under deep rings.
"How long have you been here?" Nibs asked his normal monotone tone faltering.
"Long enough."
"Look at the state of you Curly?"
"Is Sarah ok?"
"Peter said she died, but I didn't believe it, Slightly told me different, in secret of course. Had a word with John to find her, especially since Peter was still about."
"Is he?" Curly asked, a slight fear in his voice.
"No, he's away, for the moment. Been away for a couple of days with Tink. I knew Peter had fought with you, he came clean in the end. You really pissed him off."
"Good."
Both boys sniggered.
"I have to get you out of here Curly." Nibs stated.
"I have nowhere to go Nibs, Peter's banished me from practically everywhere."
"I could bring you back to the camp, Peters not back yet."
"But he will be. Tell me is Sarah alright?" Curly asked changing the subject.
"I haven't had word from John."
"I hope she's ok. Peter said that, that she'd taken sides with Hook.."
Nibs didn't say anything, just shrugged appearing to be blank.
"If she's alive, you don't think she'd take Hooks side do you?" Curly asked, a little worried by Nibs' lack of comment.
"Curly, I honestly don't know. Shagging with the enemy? I don't think so, but it wouldn't be worse than shagging Pan."
"I wasn't talking about, that." Curly muttered quietly.
Nibs noticed Curly's sadden expression on top of his own ailing look.
"What if.." He started to say.
"What?" Curly asked.
"Well, let me find Sarah, by herself, if she's alive. Curly, I'm not hanging round on Peters every word or the tribe. I'm sick of it. You and me are gonna get the hell off this island."
"With Sarah?"
"Yes, for you, with Sarah. We're gonna leave all our troubles and start a fresh, were gonna grow up Curly, once and for all."
"What of Peter?"
"I'll deal with him when I see him."
Curly recognized the hatred in Nibs' voice.
"Why the change, the sudden voice of opinion?"
" 'Cus, he pissed me off big time, that's all."
"I know how you feel. So what do the others think of this?" Curly indicated to Nibs himself.
"I haven't told them. I think Slightly is catching on, but you know he won't leave the tribe because of Summer and her girls, God they do my head in!"
"It's because Pan's gone. Your the next best thing, bet there drooling and everything."
"Just the younger ones. I'd hit 'em if I could but I know that's wrong."
"Yes very wrong Nibs but anyway." Curly mocking frowned, smirking to himself.
"You can't stay here Curly, it's a God damn, fucking watery graveyard!"
"I told you, there's nowhere else!"
"What about the old underground? It's still liveable."
"Are you out of your mind? Pan will find me and kill me, he'll look there first when he arrives back."
...............................
"Peter?" A young lost boy asked himself as he saw the strong form of his leader creep into the camp and to his area.
"Pans back!" The boy shouted running to the main camp meeting point, crowing.
Many faces and bodies emerged to the voice and looked around uneasily.
Autumn and Winter ran into the clearing smiling, their pretty faces shining for Peter. Summer on the other hand looked a little apprehensive about Peters return and did not smile in the clearing.
"Peter!?" the young boy cried to get his attention.
After a few minutes Peter emerged and smiled at the young boy and looked around at his tribe noticing many faces missing.
"Tell me, where is Nibs, Slightly or the twins."
"They went hunting." Winter answered coming closer to Peter. "Thought you'd be missing for days, missed you, you know."
"That's funny, I didn't miss you." Peter stated his temper still uneven moving away from her to his tribe.
Winter stormed off and Autumn reluctantly followed her best friend.
"Now." Peter stated. "I'm glad to be back, to my home. I want to let you all know, I went away to clear my head. I believe Neverland is changing and we are all part of it. The question is what part are we? Are we the part that sides with Neverland..or me?"
A lot of the tribe looked at each other hoping someone would tell them the answer.
"I'm not going to deny the truth. I welcome people who deserve it to be in my tribe, and you all do. There obviously have been others who haven't deserved it in the past but I'm not going to go into that. All I'm saying is your all on my side and I expect you all to stay on my side. If you don't, well, you can guess for yourself."
Peter had to remind himself before he spoke that all the people in his tribe were still practically children apart from a few. His words weren't initially directed at the younger ones. It was the older ones he had concerns for.
"Now, lets forget our troubles tonight, I'll see you all at dinner."
Peter gave a quick look at Summer who averted her eyes to the floor.
Peter smiled and walked towards her, the other children moving off carrying on with their own things.
"Missed me?" He asked softly.
"Of course, where would we be without our leader?" She replied her voice blank.
"I hope there was no sarcasm in that comment Summer?" Peter asked coming closer to her so that his body was very close.
One couldn't deny the beauty and freshness of Summer, with her long curls of golden hair and bright blue eyes. Her skin wasn't as tanned as the others and her body was a bit slimmer than that of Sarah and she was smaller. Her youth oozed out and her smile was kind and cute, especially when her dimples appeared in her cheeks.
"No." Summer replied genuinely.
Peter half smiled with his mouth open.
Not so long ago, Summer would have taken this moment to smile and flirt with him just in hope he'd give her his best smile. No one had seen that since Wendy had been alive. Summer looked up to Peter's full height and again quickly looked away wishing to God for some distraction. Slightly had told her about Peter and his ways. How he could manipulate and destroy with the blink of an eye and all of a sudden, Summer wanted to run from him and take comfort in Slightly's arms, yet she wanted to just stay and look at him. Revelling in the fact he was talking to her and hopefully making the other girls jealous. The sad thing about Peter Pan was the fact you wouldn't believe he was a killer or danger. His looks were Godly and stunning. His tousled blonde hair looked soft and his eyes looked as thought they could hold the stars. He stood tall and his body was strong and proud.
Peter brushed her bare shoulder with his hand and leant in to kiss it. Summers heart raced and her eyes widened.
"Your breath taking you know." Peter said into her shoulder.
Summer sighed at his words; they came out like silk over her skin.
"I trust you Summer, I really do and when the time comes I'm going to reward you, because you'll deserve it. If there ever was an angel of Neverland it was you."
The only word that came away fro her lips was the start of a soft whisper.
"Wend.."
Peter tilted her chin towards him.
"Is dead. And so I cannot consider her. There are different types of angels. She was a different one from you. You, well, where do I begin?" He smiled. "You have the sweetest lips, the softest skin, and the kindest soul. You don't judge harshly, like others do to me. You're strong Summer, a fighter. I've never seen strength like it in any lost girl."
Summer smiled at him weakly.
Peter smiled again.
It was true that Peter hadn't had countless amounts of lovers, nor that he fornicated with females every night and this was an aspect taken on by the girls in Neverland to wonder what he'd consider a prize. There were the 'try outs' as the lost boys called Peters catches. They consisted of a handful of the lost girls whom he'd had a night with and ditched. Wendy had officially been his only lover he'd ever had before it went sour. Next came Sarah but many could see she wasn't open to his care and affection he had to offer to her and that's when things also went bad. It only seemed now and again Peter would seek pleasure, but no one question his manner and let their leader be with his own reasons.
Summer froze when Peter kissed her lips briefly. He didn't carry on the kiss, only retreated and looked at her. Sarah still looked away from his eyes, hoping no other prying ones were watching, waiting to tell Slightly. Summer let her eyes wander to Peters and he smiled not baring his teeth. His face looked angelic and all that was bad about him melted into the air.
Summer wanted to speak but her throat felt dry.
"Slightly." She croaked turning her gaze away, not catching the irritation run over Peter's face.
"Is a loser." He whispered.
Summer frowned at him and shrugged her shoulder from his touch backing off with two steps.
Summer could have sworn Peter's eyes went black as she rejected her leader. Thankfully the twins came into view as did Slightly and Summer's eyes widened to get Slightly's attention. The twins noticed Peter and shouted to him making Slightly look over as well. He noticed the look on Summer's face and approached her.
"Peter." He nodded.
Peter nodded back and quickly glanced at Summer and then back to Slightly.
"Been hunting?"
"Yeah we have."
Peter looked around the area and then back at Slightly.
"Where's Nibs?"
Slightly couldn't mask the pause he took trying to think of an answer that would fit the cause.
"I don't know."
"That's ok." Peter shrugged.
Slightly frowned at the taller man in front of him.
"Are you staying?" He asked apprehensively.
"Why? Do you want rid of me?" Peter joked.
Slightly nervously laughed but Summer stayed quiet. Peter winked at her.
"No, of course not." Slightly answered quickly.
"I'm going to start on the dinner, please excuse me." Summer said moving away feeling Peter's eyes bore into her back.
Peter turned to Slightly but didn't say anything. His eyes were fixed on Slightly's and didn't blink. Slightly blinked trying to figure out his leader and Peter smiled patting his shoulder and walking off.
..........................
Ravens town was still now that the small hours of the morning were approaching. Ale houses were empty of clients and woman who had lined the streets looking for money were else where. The sky was beginning to lose the sparkling stars to the dusky morning.
Sarah sat up right on her bed. She'd been resting in a deep slumber unable to wake until now. She had dreamed or imagined James lying with her, holding her close so she could feel every inch of him. There love turned to a physical one and Sarah turned to smile at him but his face contorted into a malicious glare. Sarah closed her eyes and then opened them to find Peter looking at her holding the malicious glare unwilling to let go of her, holding her roughly. Sarah took a deep breath starring around the room to see it was a dream. Thankfully there was no sign of Peter about and when she lit a candle she checked her own body as an after thought just in case something had happened because it felt so real. Sarah's attention turned to the thud on a wooden shutter. She heard a woman open a window and shout some curses at the noise that woke her up and then eventually slamming the shutters closed. Sarah walked to her window and opened the shutters, starring out into the dim morning and the dark street. Her eyes widened as a tall figure darted around looking in many direction and then back to the newly opened shutters. Sarah dashed from the window and back to her room, frantically looking for some kid of weapon, cursing herself as to why James had chosen this of all times to leave her alone. After a couple of minutes Sarah braved the window again and quickly hid as the tall figure looked up to her. She couldn't make out his face but the stance of his body told her she knew this person pretty well. Sarah's heart started to beat faster and a worried look on her features continued to stay.
"Sarah?" The voice finally whispered loud enough for anyone with open windows to hear.
Sarah winced as she heard her name called, not registering the tone of the voice.
"Sarah?" The voice called a little louder.
Sarah opened her eyes, her heart still beating and a worried frown still on her brow. Walking over to the window, stepping carefully. She saw the figure again looking up to her. The light was still not brilliant but after registering the voice, the young mans features could be distinguished.
"N-Nibs?" Sarah asked apprehensively.
Nibs looked up and nodded.
"Sarah, I have to talk to you."
"You can't, your not safe, we're both not."
"Don't try to tell me things I already know Sarah. I'm risking my life just to try to bloody talk with you."
Sarah was a little taken back by Nibs' stern tone, but then again his voice was never soft unless he wanted it to be.
Sarah hushed him and held out her hand to a 'wait' gesture.
Nibs looked around the empty street once more before he finally heard a door in front of him open carefully. Sarah stepped out in a light nightgown, her blonde hair loose over her face and shoulders. Nibs had to admit she looked well. Her face didn't have any more bruises on and the dark rings that had always lay under her eyes had vanished. There was a healthy glow on her cheeks and she looked like she'd been well fed and nourished. Her bare feet didn't come out onto the step but she peaked round the door and beckoned him in.
Nibs looked around the comfortable room that Sarah was residing in. It was a major step up from the camp and a small piece of jealously set in him at her surrounds.
Sarah mentioned to a chair by the dresser as she sat on the end of the bed. She looked at Nibs hard and decided to light two more candles in the room for a better light.
"How did you find me?" Sarah asked still lighting the candles and sitting back down.
"John."
Sarah had forgotten the sound of Nibs' voice as it almost growled in deepness compared to say that of any of the lost boys.
"Thought you were Peter before." Sarah nervously smiled showing her fear of being found by her leader.
Nibs stayed silent and looked over to her. It wasn't a threatening look or filled with anger, nor was it happy and filled with care.
Sarah fidgeted with her hands as she blushed as he continued to stare at her.
"What?" She asked shrugging her shoulders.
"You've changed, a lot."
"Not the Sarah you remember?"
"No."
"And I suppose that's a bad thing?"
"No."
Sarah frowned lightly at his unexpected comment.
"You haven't changed." Sarah mentioned, a slight blush on her cheeks.
"Wrong." He simply said getting up, walking to the window.
Sarah joined him by the window, his height over shadowing her more than Peters or James'.
"I'm wrong?" Sarah asked.
"I've changed because I've left the tribe."
"You have?"
"Well, I don't expect Peter to welcome me with open arms when I tell him I've got Curly with me."
Sarah opened her mouth in shock.
"You have, where is he?" She asked looking onto the streets as if Nibs may have left him there.
The tall lost boy smirked.
"He's hidden, for the moment."
"Where? Where Nibs I have to see him, now." Sarah said frantically.
"Calm down." Nibs mentioned softly.
Sarah calmed and looked to him wanting answers.
"I found him yesterday at Skull castle."
Sarah gasped.
"He was bad, looked, well, you can imagine after what Peter did to him." Nibs paused then proceeded. "Peter's back now. Don't know who he'll look for first though, there's so many to choose from."
"Nibs where is Curly?"
"The old underground."
"Is it liveable?"
"It'll have to be. But I'm worried. It's only a matter of time before someone finds him there. He needs to heal and recover or he may.." Nibs stopped fearing for what he may have said. He wasn't in the habit of thinking his best friend was on his last legs. "He needs help Sarah, medicine, rest, safety."
Sarah had regained her frown and her mind ticked over the information.
"Does Peter really want to find him?"
"Don't know. But the minute he hears Curly is alive I think he'll want to finish his job off."
"Oh God, Curly sacrificed himself so I could run."
"And look where you are now. Nice room, nice view, nice food, nasty lover."
Sarah didn't know how to take Nibs' comment and looked away feeling for the first time embarrassed about her obvious relationship with Captain Hook.
"He's different."
"Yeah, he's older."
"No. He's a nice person."
"To you. You have what he wants, a young body."
"No. It's not just that. He's heard what I've been through with Peter. He's seen my tears. I've bared everything to him, my trust, my soul."
"And your body." Nibs sneered.
"Look Nibs, don't come in my room and tell what's right and what's wrong in your own eyes. I have never felt anything like I do now for someone."
"What about Nav?"
"Nav is dead. I can't live on the past. I've come to realise that what Nav and I had was young love, it didn't mean anything. There was no real commitment, we were practically children."
"Oh and I suppose this is. Next you'll tell me you're married to the bastard?"
Sarah gave Nibs an angry glare and Nibs returned it before looking away back into the morning before turning back to her, noticing her sadden expression.
"I'm sorry I shouldn't have said that." Nibs muttered.
Sarah stayed silent.
"Why does no one ever believe me? Why to they think I'm weak and that I lie. That I'm a whore or just another girl that I take the loser's way out?"
"I don't think that."
"Yeah? Well neither does James."
"James?" Nibs said in a definite control to hide his disgust at the words from her lips.
Sarah didn't reply, instead just keeping her gaze on the sea and the missing Jolly Roger ship.
Nibs noticed her glance and studied the sea with her.
"Where has he gone?" Nibs asked.
"Sailing."
"I know that, where?"
"Why should I tell you?"
"Because I need to know."
"Why?"
"So I can have tea party and make sure I can invite him when he's back." Nibs' sarcastic comment came out a bit harsher than he intended to.
"Get out." Sarah muttered.
Nibs opened his mouth to speak.
"Leave." Sarah stated loudly.
"Fine.." Growled Nibs. "And when Curlys on his death bed, I'll let him know you didn't want to help him because you were too busy day dreaming over that pathetic creep of a man."
Sarah's anger was boiling.
"I understand running from Peter after what he did to you, but running into the arms of 'him', I don't know which ones worse."
"Leave your judgments to yourself until you've met him Nibs."
"I have, how the hell do you think I got this scar!?" Nibs shouted roughly pulling up his shirt.
A nasty scar ran diagonally from his right side over his abdomen downwards to his left.
Sarah had never seen Nibs bare body for sometime since they were kids around the age of thirteen. Peter had remained shirtless for some time until recently. It was obvious Nibs was embarrassed by the deep scar that wasn't fully seen because of his trousers. Nibs' body was very well defined more than Peters or James'. His skin was the same colour as Peters but his body hair was darker and more of it ran over his body than Peters.
Sarah turned her gaze from the scar to his eyes.
"He did that?"
"A fair while back but yes."
"Why?" Sarah knew it was a stupid question but she asked it anyway.
"A fight, Peter made me get involved. First major scar I got. It was for Peter."
"Sounds familiar."
Nibs dropped his shirt quickly.
"How are you anyway?"
"I'm ok." Sarah's hand instantly went to her shoulder and she caught Nibs gaze there too.
"Shot?"
Sarah nodded.
"I think I'm lucky to be alive."
"I think we all are."
There was a silence in the room and both Sarah and Nibs let the remaining anger flow from them in the silence.
"Sarah?" Nibs started softly. "Is this what you want?"
Sarah frowned at him but knew what he was talking about.
"It's all I have."
Nibs was angry how she could think that when he thought it was bluntly obvious that there were more choices to her than that.
"What about me?" He asked.
Sarah released her frown and starred at him questioningly but didn't finish her gaze because he started talking again.
"And Curly. The lost girls and boys, Slightly, Summer, what about all them?" Nibs had been numbering them off his finger and stood agitated.
"I can't go back to the lost tribe because of Peter, I thought that was obvious. Besides I don't want to be a slave anymore, chained to them, I'm not a nanny anymore, I won't take Peters crap."
Nibs smiled at her comment and Sarah caught his smirk.
"What's so funny?"
"You're beginning to sound like me." He laughed.
Sarah couldn't help but smile when she heard his laugh because it sounded too genuine. She hadn't heard him laugh in a long time.
"Sarah don't chain yourself up here either. What kind of life do you think you'll have with Hook?"
"Well, I don't know yet but?"
"No, you're going to be chained. Why aren't you even on his ship with him now?"
"Because, of my safety, I guess?"
"Safety from what? Peter Pan who can't be bothered to find you or him? The pirates that Hooks up against, who Slightly told me they weren't even proper pirates!?"
"They were pirates."
"But not very good ones, they practically all died on Pearl sands. The count from the mermaids was higher than ever."
"Oh and I suppose you've been strolling along talking to the mermaids have you?"
"No, but word does get around Neverland fast."
Sarah was trying to calculate what Nibs was trying to explain to her, hoping that James wasn't just 'escaping' from her for a bit.
"Why do you think you've never really been on the ship Sarah? He has others there below deck, we've all seen them. There paid to accompany the crew on journeys. Do you understand what I mean by saying accompanying them?"
"Yes. Don't patronize me Nibs."
"I'm not. I just want you to understand."
"All the dresses?" Sarah mumbled to herself in her own thoughts.
Nibs didn't catch the full sentence but looked at her anyway.
"How do you know all this?" Sarah asked shaking her thoughts away back to conversation.
"Because I do. I've been there on Peter 'adventures' and I've seen the Jolly Roger. I've fought the crew and I've seen the whores. How do you think I got my scar?"
"Wait but you said?"
"I said Peter made me do it and I got in a fight and that's the truth. It was stupid really." Nibs added as an after comment.
"I don't understand?"
"We didn't think Hook was on board at the time. The ship was docked up and the crew were drunk. They were celebrating something. Anyway, Peter dared Nav, me and Tootles to creep into the ship to recover something that would really piss him off."
"And?"
"Tootles grabbed one of his hats, Nav grabbed."
"A quill." Sarah finished before him calculating when this happened. "Nibs, this wasn't as long ago as you make it out to be." Sarah added remembering the quill Nav gave to her before he died.
"Yeah well."
"What did you take?"
"One of his prize whores."
Sarah frowned but realised what he was saying.
"She was sitting there, waiting for him I think and when she saw three boys she didn't know whether to laugh or scream, I think she was pretty drunk too. She looked, nice. He caught me, just, but I got away. I think he thought I was Peter or something? Maybe she did too?" He laughed.
"Why did you do that?"
"I don't know. Well, it would have really pissed off Hook and it did. It was Peters dare too; I didn't want to forfeit it. But there was something else. It was being on that ship, in the presence of adults and it was her too.
"You were a boy."
"I didn't feel like one."
"Your stupid sometimes Nibs, more so than Peter."
Nibs was still in a day dream stance recalling the story in his mind not listening to her.
Sarah didn't know whether to smile or be sad because his face was a mixture of both.
"Nibs. I don't know what you're saying. I mean I do. I guess I don't want to believe you. But seriously what choice do I have left? Leave James' security and let Peter find me eventually. Neverland isn't that big you know.
"What if Peter and Hook were dead?"
Sarah didn't know how to answer Nibs.
"All I'm saying is that without them both, Neverland would be a better place. You'd be happy, I'd be happy, everyone would. But until then wouldn't you rather be with people who you know you can trust and relay on. Not to mention having not to give yourself in return?"
Sarah cast her eyes down at Nibs' last comment. She felt him approach the bed and he sat next to her.
"You've changed Sarah, you're different. You are not going back to become a lost girl because your not a girl. You deserve more than being on Hooks call when he wants you. He won't treat you anymore special than the rest. You deserve your freedom and your own rulings. You need to be with people who know you and truly care for you. Please, come with me."
Sarah sighed.
"I don't want to be on the receiving end of Pans wrath anymore than you do." Nib's added, reading her thoughts about Peter.
"I don't know?"
"I known what you have now may seem like bliss but it'll shatter, I promise you Sarah it will, you have to believe me. We've both seen the different faces of Hook. What worries me is you; he can't keep one face forever, you'll see the other soon."
Nibs paused to look at Sarah. She looked sad and confused.
"Curlys waiting for you." He said putting his arm round her shoulders reassuringly.
Disclaimer: I own nothing except Sarah and other minor characters.
* * *
Chapter Nine - Partings, returns and appearances
Three days had passed and Neverland was still the same. The bad weather had kicked in, some say, a sign of Peters mood, but he was still far from Neverland never the less.
Sarah's body ached, but a smile was still plastered on her face that couldn't be wiped off easily. James promised every night since their love making to visit her and he did.
He had retreated back to his ship to man his crew that morning, feeling less than confident that Smee was managing alright.
The three days had given Sarah time to think, to be free of Peter and to think for herself. The only thought that stayed in her mind from her old life was one of guilt she had towards the lost tribe and leaving them so suddenly. She had been there for them, an 'adult' compared to most, to care for the younger ones. She knew the other girls would be taking charge, mainly Summer who had the guidance of Slightly, but she feared for their safety from anything, it was just an instinct she had grown.
James was sailing off the coast of Neverland in his own affairs, obviously resuming his word with Banbury to look for the other pirate ship that had docked near Pearl sands many days ago. The idea of not having him around upset her but he insisted he had to go.
"I have to leave, Sarah, I can't just spend all my time with you. One must carry on with his career. My life is piracy; you know that, it never stops, not even for me."
"Then I'll come with you, keep you company." Sarah ended her sentence with a smirk.
James smiled but cut it short. "You know I've told you before, I don't want you on my ship, its no place for you."
Sarah dropped her smile.
"Think of it this way, I'll see you in two days." He added.
Sarah raised a mischievous eyebrow.
"I don't think I can wait?" She smirked.
"It'll be worth the wait." James insisted.
"When will I see you, honestly?"
"A few days, possibly three."
Sarah smiled at him and placed a few light kisses on his lips, holding him tightly before he left her room.
The sudden loss of her lover had given the room coldness, or so she thought.
Before James had gone, he'd warned her not to stray far, like he had when he first met her. Ravens town was still a dangerous place even if you knew people in high places.
...................
The afternoon approached Neverland quickly and the Sun burned bright in the sky. The trees brought much shade and coolness and Nibs was extremely glad for it.
The young man had been travelling since morning. Sweat laid on his brow and his face which usually looked dirty, was even more so, from his travels. He'd made his way past the Indian lands and towards a place feared by many but Pan.
Black castle looked grim in the light and even more so at night and Nibs thanked the heavens it was daylight. The suns rays seemed not hit the grey stone and the waves crashed on the rocks oozing the lands darkness. There was quietness about, only because it was rumoured that the infamous crocodile swam in these waters and pirates still dwelled here. No one ventured here unless under extreme circumstances. Nibs rolled his eyes as the thought entered his head and proceeded stubbornly towards the crumbling castle. He dived into the waters that lead towards the opening of the castle, surprised to see its gate ajar. Swimming silently, Nibs' body gracefully glided in the water, his strong arms and legs, powerfully moving him faster. He slid under the gate, his eyes open in the murky water looking for signs of inhabitants. It there were two things Nibs prided himself on; it was his skill of fighting and his strength and agility with swimming. A thought of how Curly had once accused him of being a descendent of a mermaid because of his swimming ability popped in his head but his smile didn't appear.
The darkness of the castle was creepy and Nibs, brave as he was, couldn't help but feel a shiver run down his spin. He swam to one of the larger rocks and surfaced only his eyes above water level. The old decaying corpses laid mangled in each other, small bits of decayed flesh hanging off the latest arrivals. The sight didn't scare him only the prospect that he'd be out numbered if there were anyone about. No torches lit any darkness.
Black castle was still for the time being and Nibs hoisted himself out of the water carefully. No sign of movement could be heard or seen but Nibs drew his knife carefully, his eyes looking around in a frenzy as he moved about in the pitch black. The fact came to him that Black castle was far more intimidating when you knew know one was there and that the darker shadows looked more menacing, hiding blacker darkness.
Nibs had walked around carefully, silently stepping cautiously, alert as ever for any noise.
His venture felt in vain. He knew Curly wouldn't be here, this was no place for any type of lost boy or girl but he knew no one else would look for him here, not even Slightly.
Nibs sat down on a rock rubbing his brow. In the past few days his own mind had caught up with himself. The fact that Curly could be dead sparked it and for once in his life he actually felt lost. He didn't like the lost tribe or Peter but he had trust in one of its valued members and now that he'd gone, there wasn't any trust left for him to count on. Nibs didn't want to spoon feed kids or become a babysitter, instead he wanted to flee. He'd enjoyed his time with the tribe in their younger days but that was until the darlings had arrived. Pan had changed and at the time, he didn't know whether for the better.
Nibs sank into the water once more and bobbed around for a second glance. He took a deep breath and prepared to dive into the water but a call made him release his breath and frantically search for the owner of the voice.
"Nibs?" A voice called.
Nibs instantly recognized the voice belonging to Curly. He apprehensively headed towards the sound unsure whether it could be one of Peters mimicking tricks. The truth was revealed next to the large ornamental crocodile.
Nibs' eyes widened as he saw the crippled form of Curly, crawling towards him from the shadows. His skin was as white a sheet and he looked thinner. His body was covered in dirt and his clothes were grubby and ripped. His beautiful curly hair was muddy and mangled.
"What the hell happened to you?" Nibs cried skidding to his friend, his knees grazing in the process.
"Pan. I had to fight him Nibs. I had to let Sarah run, he would have killed her."
Nibs hushed him and looked him over, seeing the faint bruises over his face and body. His breathing was shallow and his eyes were in slits under deep rings.
"How long have you been here?" Nibs asked his normal monotone tone faltering.
"Long enough."
"Look at the state of you Curly?"
"Is Sarah ok?"
"Peter said she died, but I didn't believe it, Slightly told me different, in secret of course. Had a word with John to find her, especially since Peter was still about."
"Is he?" Curly asked, a slight fear in his voice.
"No, he's away, for the moment. Been away for a couple of days with Tink. I knew Peter had fought with you, he came clean in the end. You really pissed him off."
"Good."
Both boys sniggered.
"I have to get you out of here Curly." Nibs stated.
"I have nowhere to go Nibs, Peter's banished me from practically everywhere."
"I could bring you back to the camp, Peters not back yet."
"But he will be. Tell me is Sarah alright?" Curly asked changing the subject.
"I haven't had word from John."
"I hope she's ok. Peter said that, that she'd taken sides with Hook.."
Nibs didn't say anything, just shrugged appearing to be blank.
"If she's alive, you don't think she'd take Hooks side do you?" Curly asked, a little worried by Nibs' lack of comment.
"Curly, I honestly don't know. Shagging with the enemy? I don't think so, but it wouldn't be worse than shagging Pan."
"I wasn't talking about, that." Curly muttered quietly.
Nibs noticed Curly's sadden expression on top of his own ailing look.
"What if.." He started to say.
"What?" Curly asked.
"Well, let me find Sarah, by herself, if she's alive. Curly, I'm not hanging round on Peters every word or the tribe. I'm sick of it. You and me are gonna get the hell off this island."
"With Sarah?"
"Yes, for you, with Sarah. We're gonna leave all our troubles and start a fresh, were gonna grow up Curly, once and for all."
"What of Peter?"
"I'll deal with him when I see him."
Curly recognized the hatred in Nibs' voice.
"Why the change, the sudden voice of opinion?"
" 'Cus, he pissed me off big time, that's all."
"I know how you feel. So what do the others think of this?" Curly indicated to Nibs himself.
"I haven't told them. I think Slightly is catching on, but you know he won't leave the tribe because of Summer and her girls, God they do my head in!"
"It's because Pan's gone. Your the next best thing, bet there drooling and everything."
"Just the younger ones. I'd hit 'em if I could but I know that's wrong."
"Yes very wrong Nibs but anyway." Curly mocking frowned, smirking to himself.
"You can't stay here Curly, it's a God damn, fucking watery graveyard!"
"I told you, there's nowhere else!"
"What about the old underground? It's still liveable."
"Are you out of your mind? Pan will find me and kill me, he'll look there first when he arrives back."
...............................
"Peter?" A young lost boy asked himself as he saw the strong form of his leader creep into the camp and to his area.
"Pans back!" The boy shouted running to the main camp meeting point, crowing.
Many faces and bodies emerged to the voice and looked around uneasily.
Autumn and Winter ran into the clearing smiling, their pretty faces shining for Peter. Summer on the other hand looked a little apprehensive about Peters return and did not smile in the clearing.
"Peter!?" the young boy cried to get his attention.
After a few minutes Peter emerged and smiled at the young boy and looked around at his tribe noticing many faces missing.
"Tell me, where is Nibs, Slightly or the twins."
"They went hunting." Winter answered coming closer to Peter. "Thought you'd be missing for days, missed you, you know."
"That's funny, I didn't miss you." Peter stated his temper still uneven moving away from her to his tribe.
Winter stormed off and Autumn reluctantly followed her best friend.
"Now." Peter stated. "I'm glad to be back, to my home. I want to let you all know, I went away to clear my head. I believe Neverland is changing and we are all part of it. The question is what part are we? Are we the part that sides with Neverland..or me?"
A lot of the tribe looked at each other hoping someone would tell them the answer.
"I'm not going to deny the truth. I welcome people who deserve it to be in my tribe, and you all do. There obviously have been others who haven't deserved it in the past but I'm not going to go into that. All I'm saying is your all on my side and I expect you all to stay on my side. If you don't, well, you can guess for yourself."
Peter had to remind himself before he spoke that all the people in his tribe were still practically children apart from a few. His words weren't initially directed at the younger ones. It was the older ones he had concerns for.
"Now, lets forget our troubles tonight, I'll see you all at dinner."
Peter gave a quick look at Summer who averted her eyes to the floor.
Peter smiled and walked towards her, the other children moving off carrying on with their own things.
"Missed me?" He asked softly.
"Of course, where would we be without our leader?" She replied her voice blank.
"I hope there was no sarcasm in that comment Summer?" Peter asked coming closer to her so that his body was very close.
One couldn't deny the beauty and freshness of Summer, with her long curls of golden hair and bright blue eyes. Her skin wasn't as tanned as the others and her body was a bit slimmer than that of Sarah and she was smaller. Her youth oozed out and her smile was kind and cute, especially when her dimples appeared in her cheeks.
"No." Summer replied genuinely.
Peter half smiled with his mouth open.
Not so long ago, Summer would have taken this moment to smile and flirt with him just in hope he'd give her his best smile. No one had seen that since Wendy had been alive. Summer looked up to Peter's full height and again quickly looked away wishing to God for some distraction. Slightly had told her about Peter and his ways. How he could manipulate and destroy with the blink of an eye and all of a sudden, Summer wanted to run from him and take comfort in Slightly's arms, yet she wanted to just stay and look at him. Revelling in the fact he was talking to her and hopefully making the other girls jealous. The sad thing about Peter Pan was the fact you wouldn't believe he was a killer or danger. His looks were Godly and stunning. His tousled blonde hair looked soft and his eyes looked as thought they could hold the stars. He stood tall and his body was strong and proud.
Peter brushed her bare shoulder with his hand and leant in to kiss it. Summers heart raced and her eyes widened.
"Your breath taking you know." Peter said into her shoulder.
Summer sighed at his words; they came out like silk over her skin.
"I trust you Summer, I really do and when the time comes I'm going to reward you, because you'll deserve it. If there ever was an angel of Neverland it was you."
The only word that came away fro her lips was the start of a soft whisper.
"Wend.."
Peter tilted her chin towards him.
"Is dead. And so I cannot consider her. There are different types of angels. She was a different one from you. You, well, where do I begin?" He smiled. "You have the sweetest lips, the softest skin, and the kindest soul. You don't judge harshly, like others do to me. You're strong Summer, a fighter. I've never seen strength like it in any lost girl."
Summer smiled at him weakly.
Peter smiled again.
It was true that Peter hadn't had countless amounts of lovers, nor that he fornicated with females every night and this was an aspect taken on by the girls in Neverland to wonder what he'd consider a prize. There were the 'try outs' as the lost boys called Peters catches. They consisted of a handful of the lost girls whom he'd had a night with and ditched. Wendy had officially been his only lover he'd ever had before it went sour. Next came Sarah but many could see she wasn't open to his care and affection he had to offer to her and that's when things also went bad. It only seemed now and again Peter would seek pleasure, but no one question his manner and let their leader be with his own reasons.
Summer froze when Peter kissed her lips briefly. He didn't carry on the kiss, only retreated and looked at her. Sarah still looked away from his eyes, hoping no other prying ones were watching, waiting to tell Slightly. Summer let her eyes wander to Peters and he smiled not baring his teeth. His face looked angelic and all that was bad about him melted into the air.
Summer wanted to speak but her throat felt dry.
"Slightly." She croaked turning her gaze away, not catching the irritation run over Peter's face.
"Is a loser." He whispered.
Summer frowned at him and shrugged her shoulder from his touch backing off with two steps.
Summer could have sworn Peter's eyes went black as she rejected her leader. Thankfully the twins came into view as did Slightly and Summer's eyes widened to get Slightly's attention. The twins noticed Peter and shouted to him making Slightly look over as well. He noticed the look on Summer's face and approached her.
"Peter." He nodded.
Peter nodded back and quickly glanced at Summer and then back to Slightly.
"Been hunting?"
"Yeah we have."
Peter looked around the area and then back at Slightly.
"Where's Nibs?"
Slightly couldn't mask the pause he took trying to think of an answer that would fit the cause.
"I don't know."
"That's ok." Peter shrugged.
Slightly frowned at the taller man in front of him.
"Are you staying?" He asked apprehensively.
"Why? Do you want rid of me?" Peter joked.
Slightly nervously laughed but Summer stayed quiet. Peter winked at her.
"No, of course not." Slightly answered quickly.
"I'm going to start on the dinner, please excuse me." Summer said moving away feeling Peter's eyes bore into her back.
Peter turned to Slightly but didn't say anything. His eyes were fixed on Slightly's and didn't blink. Slightly blinked trying to figure out his leader and Peter smiled patting his shoulder and walking off.
..........................
Ravens town was still now that the small hours of the morning were approaching. Ale houses were empty of clients and woman who had lined the streets looking for money were else where. The sky was beginning to lose the sparkling stars to the dusky morning.
Sarah sat up right on her bed. She'd been resting in a deep slumber unable to wake until now. She had dreamed or imagined James lying with her, holding her close so she could feel every inch of him. There love turned to a physical one and Sarah turned to smile at him but his face contorted into a malicious glare. Sarah closed her eyes and then opened them to find Peter looking at her holding the malicious glare unwilling to let go of her, holding her roughly. Sarah took a deep breath starring around the room to see it was a dream. Thankfully there was no sign of Peter about and when she lit a candle she checked her own body as an after thought just in case something had happened because it felt so real. Sarah's attention turned to the thud on a wooden shutter. She heard a woman open a window and shout some curses at the noise that woke her up and then eventually slamming the shutters closed. Sarah walked to her window and opened the shutters, starring out into the dim morning and the dark street. Her eyes widened as a tall figure darted around looking in many direction and then back to the newly opened shutters. Sarah dashed from the window and back to her room, frantically looking for some kid of weapon, cursing herself as to why James had chosen this of all times to leave her alone. After a couple of minutes Sarah braved the window again and quickly hid as the tall figure looked up to her. She couldn't make out his face but the stance of his body told her she knew this person pretty well. Sarah's heart started to beat faster and a worried look on her features continued to stay.
"Sarah?" The voice finally whispered loud enough for anyone with open windows to hear.
Sarah winced as she heard her name called, not registering the tone of the voice.
"Sarah?" The voice called a little louder.
Sarah opened her eyes, her heart still beating and a worried frown still on her brow. Walking over to the window, stepping carefully. She saw the figure again looking up to her. The light was still not brilliant but after registering the voice, the young mans features could be distinguished.
"N-Nibs?" Sarah asked apprehensively.
Nibs looked up and nodded.
"Sarah, I have to talk to you."
"You can't, your not safe, we're both not."
"Don't try to tell me things I already know Sarah. I'm risking my life just to try to bloody talk with you."
Sarah was a little taken back by Nibs' stern tone, but then again his voice was never soft unless he wanted it to be.
Sarah hushed him and held out her hand to a 'wait' gesture.
Nibs looked around the empty street once more before he finally heard a door in front of him open carefully. Sarah stepped out in a light nightgown, her blonde hair loose over her face and shoulders. Nibs had to admit she looked well. Her face didn't have any more bruises on and the dark rings that had always lay under her eyes had vanished. There was a healthy glow on her cheeks and she looked like she'd been well fed and nourished. Her bare feet didn't come out onto the step but she peaked round the door and beckoned him in.
Nibs looked around the comfortable room that Sarah was residing in. It was a major step up from the camp and a small piece of jealously set in him at her surrounds.
Sarah mentioned to a chair by the dresser as she sat on the end of the bed. She looked at Nibs hard and decided to light two more candles in the room for a better light.
"How did you find me?" Sarah asked still lighting the candles and sitting back down.
"John."
Sarah had forgotten the sound of Nibs' voice as it almost growled in deepness compared to say that of any of the lost boys.
"Thought you were Peter before." Sarah nervously smiled showing her fear of being found by her leader.
Nibs stayed silent and looked over to her. It wasn't a threatening look or filled with anger, nor was it happy and filled with care.
Sarah fidgeted with her hands as she blushed as he continued to stare at her.
"What?" She asked shrugging her shoulders.
"You've changed, a lot."
"Not the Sarah you remember?"
"No."
"And I suppose that's a bad thing?"
"No."
Sarah frowned lightly at his unexpected comment.
"You haven't changed." Sarah mentioned, a slight blush on her cheeks.
"Wrong." He simply said getting up, walking to the window.
Sarah joined him by the window, his height over shadowing her more than Peters or James'.
"I'm wrong?" Sarah asked.
"I've changed because I've left the tribe."
"You have?"
"Well, I don't expect Peter to welcome me with open arms when I tell him I've got Curly with me."
Sarah opened her mouth in shock.
"You have, where is he?" She asked looking onto the streets as if Nibs may have left him there.
The tall lost boy smirked.
"He's hidden, for the moment."
"Where? Where Nibs I have to see him, now." Sarah said frantically.
"Calm down." Nibs mentioned softly.
Sarah calmed and looked to him wanting answers.
"I found him yesterday at Skull castle."
Sarah gasped.
"He was bad, looked, well, you can imagine after what Peter did to him." Nibs paused then proceeded. "Peter's back now. Don't know who he'll look for first though, there's so many to choose from."
"Nibs where is Curly?"
"The old underground."
"Is it liveable?"
"It'll have to be. But I'm worried. It's only a matter of time before someone finds him there. He needs to heal and recover or he may.." Nibs stopped fearing for what he may have said. He wasn't in the habit of thinking his best friend was on his last legs. "He needs help Sarah, medicine, rest, safety."
Sarah had regained her frown and her mind ticked over the information.
"Does Peter really want to find him?"
"Don't know. But the minute he hears Curly is alive I think he'll want to finish his job off."
"Oh God, Curly sacrificed himself so I could run."
"And look where you are now. Nice room, nice view, nice food, nasty lover."
Sarah didn't know how to take Nibs' comment and looked away feeling for the first time embarrassed about her obvious relationship with Captain Hook.
"He's different."
"Yeah, he's older."
"No. He's a nice person."
"To you. You have what he wants, a young body."
"No. It's not just that. He's heard what I've been through with Peter. He's seen my tears. I've bared everything to him, my trust, my soul."
"And your body." Nibs sneered.
"Look Nibs, don't come in my room and tell what's right and what's wrong in your own eyes. I have never felt anything like I do now for someone."
"What about Nav?"
"Nav is dead. I can't live on the past. I've come to realise that what Nav and I had was young love, it didn't mean anything. There was no real commitment, we were practically children."
"Oh and I suppose this is. Next you'll tell me you're married to the bastard?"
Sarah gave Nibs an angry glare and Nibs returned it before looking away back into the morning before turning back to her, noticing her sadden expression.
"I'm sorry I shouldn't have said that." Nibs muttered.
Sarah stayed silent.
"Why does no one ever believe me? Why to they think I'm weak and that I lie. That I'm a whore or just another girl that I take the loser's way out?"
"I don't think that."
"Yeah? Well neither does James."
"James?" Nibs said in a definite control to hide his disgust at the words from her lips.
Sarah didn't reply, instead just keeping her gaze on the sea and the missing Jolly Roger ship.
Nibs noticed her glance and studied the sea with her.
"Where has he gone?" Nibs asked.
"Sailing."
"I know that, where?"
"Why should I tell you?"
"Because I need to know."
"Why?"
"So I can have tea party and make sure I can invite him when he's back." Nibs' sarcastic comment came out a bit harsher than he intended to.
"Get out." Sarah muttered.
Nibs opened his mouth to speak.
"Leave." Sarah stated loudly.
"Fine.." Growled Nibs. "And when Curlys on his death bed, I'll let him know you didn't want to help him because you were too busy day dreaming over that pathetic creep of a man."
Sarah's anger was boiling.
"I understand running from Peter after what he did to you, but running into the arms of 'him', I don't know which ones worse."
"Leave your judgments to yourself until you've met him Nibs."
"I have, how the hell do you think I got this scar!?" Nibs shouted roughly pulling up his shirt.
A nasty scar ran diagonally from his right side over his abdomen downwards to his left.
Sarah had never seen Nibs bare body for sometime since they were kids around the age of thirteen. Peter had remained shirtless for some time until recently. It was obvious Nibs was embarrassed by the deep scar that wasn't fully seen because of his trousers. Nibs' body was very well defined more than Peters or James'. His skin was the same colour as Peters but his body hair was darker and more of it ran over his body than Peters.
Sarah turned her gaze from the scar to his eyes.
"He did that?"
"A fair while back but yes."
"Why?" Sarah knew it was a stupid question but she asked it anyway.
"A fight, Peter made me get involved. First major scar I got. It was for Peter."
"Sounds familiar."
Nibs dropped his shirt quickly.
"How are you anyway?"
"I'm ok." Sarah's hand instantly went to her shoulder and she caught Nibs gaze there too.
"Shot?"
Sarah nodded.
"I think I'm lucky to be alive."
"I think we all are."
There was a silence in the room and both Sarah and Nibs let the remaining anger flow from them in the silence.
"Sarah?" Nibs started softly. "Is this what you want?"
Sarah frowned at him but knew what he was talking about.
"It's all I have."
Nibs was angry how she could think that when he thought it was bluntly obvious that there were more choices to her than that.
"What about me?" He asked.
Sarah released her frown and starred at him questioningly but didn't finish her gaze because he started talking again.
"And Curly. The lost girls and boys, Slightly, Summer, what about all them?" Nibs had been numbering them off his finger and stood agitated.
"I can't go back to the lost tribe because of Peter, I thought that was obvious. Besides I don't want to be a slave anymore, chained to them, I'm not a nanny anymore, I won't take Peters crap."
Nibs smiled at her comment and Sarah caught his smirk.
"What's so funny?"
"You're beginning to sound like me." He laughed.
Sarah couldn't help but smile when she heard his laugh because it sounded too genuine. She hadn't heard him laugh in a long time.
"Sarah don't chain yourself up here either. What kind of life do you think you'll have with Hook?"
"Well, I don't know yet but?"
"No, you're going to be chained. Why aren't you even on his ship with him now?"
"Because, of my safety, I guess?"
"Safety from what? Peter Pan who can't be bothered to find you or him? The pirates that Hooks up against, who Slightly told me they weren't even proper pirates!?"
"They were pirates."
"But not very good ones, they practically all died on Pearl sands. The count from the mermaids was higher than ever."
"Oh and I suppose you've been strolling along talking to the mermaids have you?"
"No, but word does get around Neverland fast."
Sarah was trying to calculate what Nibs was trying to explain to her, hoping that James wasn't just 'escaping' from her for a bit.
"Why do you think you've never really been on the ship Sarah? He has others there below deck, we've all seen them. There paid to accompany the crew on journeys. Do you understand what I mean by saying accompanying them?"
"Yes. Don't patronize me Nibs."
"I'm not. I just want you to understand."
"All the dresses?" Sarah mumbled to herself in her own thoughts.
Nibs didn't catch the full sentence but looked at her anyway.
"How do you know all this?" Sarah asked shaking her thoughts away back to conversation.
"Because I do. I've been there on Peter 'adventures' and I've seen the Jolly Roger. I've fought the crew and I've seen the whores. How do you think I got my scar?"
"Wait but you said?"
"I said Peter made me do it and I got in a fight and that's the truth. It was stupid really." Nibs added as an after comment.
"I don't understand?"
"We didn't think Hook was on board at the time. The ship was docked up and the crew were drunk. They were celebrating something. Anyway, Peter dared Nav, me and Tootles to creep into the ship to recover something that would really piss him off."
"And?"
"Tootles grabbed one of his hats, Nav grabbed."
"A quill." Sarah finished before him calculating when this happened. "Nibs, this wasn't as long ago as you make it out to be." Sarah added remembering the quill Nav gave to her before he died.
"Yeah well."
"What did you take?"
"One of his prize whores."
Sarah frowned but realised what he was saying.
"She was sitting there, waiting for him I think and when she saw three boys she didn't know whether to laugh or scream, I think she was pretty drunk too. She looked, nice. He caught me, just, but I got away. I think he thought I was Peter or something? Maybe she did too?" He laughed.
"Why did you do that?"
"I don't know. Well, it would have really pissed off Hook and it did. It was Peters dare too; I didn't want to forfeit it. But there was something else. It was being on that ship, in the presence of adults and it was her too.
"You were a boy."
"I didn't feel like one."
"Your stupid sometimes Nibs, more so than Peter."
Nibs was still in a day dream stance recalling the story in his mind not listening to her.
Sarah didn't know whether to smile or be sad because his face was a mixture of both.
"Nibs. I don't know what you're saying. I mean I do. I guess I don't want to believe you. But seriously what choice do I have left? Leave James' security and let Peter find me eventually. Neverland isn't that big you know.
"What if Peter and Hook were dead?"
Sarah didn't know how to answer Nibs.
"All I'm saying is that without them both, Neverland would be a better place. You'd be happy, I'd be happy, everyone would. But until then wouldn't you rather be with people who you know you can trust and relay on. Not to mention having not to give yourself in return?"
Sarah cast her eyes down at Nibs' last comment. She felt him approach the bed and he sat next to her.
"You've changed Sarah, you're different. You are not going back to become a lost girl because your not a girl. You deserve more than being on Hooks call when he wants you. He won't treat you anymore special than the rest. You deserve your freedom and your own rulings. You need to be with people who know you and truly care for you. Please, come with me."
Sarah sighed.
"I don't want to be on the receiving end of Pans wrath anymore than you do." Nib's added, reading her thoughts about Peter.
"I don't know?"
"I known what you have now may seem like bliss but it'll shatter, I promise you Sarah it will, you have to believe me. We've both seen the different faces of Hook. What worries me is you; he can't keep one face forever, you'll see the other soon."
Nibs paused to look at Sarah. She looked sad and confused.
"Curlys waiting for you." He said putting his arm round her shoulders reassuringly.