My thanks to everyone who reviewed/favorited/followed! I've had this idea for a while so it's quite enjoyable to write!
True Love's path might have been a winding road, but our Heroine knew that it would lead her to the right destination.
"Your husband?" David cried out incredulously, his sentiments echoed by everyone around them. Emma couldn't blame them. Why would anyone believe that she'd married someone from three centuries ago? "Emma...what do you mean?"
She smiled softly, all of the diner's attention focused on her. "When I was sixteen, I fell through a portal." She revealed, the gasps around her spurring her on. "I had just run away from my last foster home where my situation wasn't exactly ideal. I remember thinking that I just wanted to go somewhere I could call home, and the next thing I knew, I was waking up in an unfamiliar place where everyone looked like they were part of a historical reenactment program."
"So you wished yourself to our Realm?" Regina raised a skeptical brow.
"I guess I did." Emma concurred. "At first, I thought I was going crazy, but then I just kind of went with the flow. I fell back to my old habits and stole for a living, but then I discovered I was actually a pretty good seamstress. After a few months, I'd established myself in Corona." She gave Sean a benevolent smile, her breath hitching when she realized just how much he looked like Liam.
"And a month before my seventeenth birthday, I met him." She sighed, memories of her former life coming back to her. "Killian Jones. He was eighteen at the time, but by our next meeting he had just turned nineteen. I crashed into him after running after a little boy who had stolen my money bag. After that, we kept meeting coincidentally." She laughed, her features joyous. "Well, he later admitted that he would poke holes into his uniform so that he had an excuse to meet me."
Despite the absurdity of the situation, Mary Margaret couldn't help but feel nothing but happiness for her little girl. Emma's face was the picture of content.
She'd never met Killian Jones, but if he was able to make her daughter happy, then he was the man for her. She would also make it a point to apologize to Emma for trying to push her towards Neal. She thought that perhaps he could help mend Emma's heart, despite the fact that he was the one who had broken it.
But now she knew better. Emma's heart belonged to Killian Jones, and that wouldn't change no matter how much time had passed between them.
"He, being the most proper gentleman I'd ever met, asked permission to start courting me." Emma's fingers ghosted over her lips, remembering the first time they had kissed. He'd been so shy, that she had to take control. It was awkward, and clumsy, and perfect. "About eight months later, he asked me to marry him, which I did." That had been a bittersweet moment, seeing as how Liam's death was a constant shadow that loomed over them.
She turned to Sean, who was listening with open fascination. This was his family history as much as it was hers. "Your grandfather...Liam, he had just died. Killian was furious and absolutely broken, but we married anyway, because that's what Liam would have wanted. Evelyn, Liam's wife, was pregnant with Eugene at the time." Her eyes misted at the nephew she had never been able to meet.
"You're like my aunt then." Sean barked out a laugh, "With a few greats attached. Oh my god! Henry is my cousin!"
Emma snickered while nodding, thinking how much Henry would get a kick out of this odd family tree. She looked over at her parents, eyes sparkling with mischief. "Your grandson was conceived before you were even a twinkle in your great-great-great-great-great grandparents eyes."
"Please don't remind me. Time travel is absolutely mind boggling." David shuddered. "It's bad enough that we missed your wedding. I don't need to hear anymore about your...other activities."
She smiled lightly, sobering as her story came to an end.
"But then Killian and the crew mutinied shortly after. The King was growing erratic. His actions were hurting the innocent citizens of Corona. Killian was never one to sit back in the face of injustice, and he organized a rebellion." Emma swallowed, remembering how powerful he had looked as he asked his crew members if they were with him, or against him. Not a single one had stayed with the Crown. "Only a month later, I was taken from him via another portal. My memories were gone too, and all that I had left of Killian was Henry, and this ring." She pulled it from its chain, placing a soft kiss on the sapphire stone. Emma swore that it pulsed in her fingers.
A thought took root in her mind. She'd heard time and again how powerful she was supposed to be, but had never truly explored the depths of her abilities. However, she did know that her magic was based on emotion. And there was no emotion stronger than that of love.
"If I can wish myself to another Realm, then maybe I can do it again." Emma stated determinedly. She didn't see the proud looks from her parents, or the scowl on the Dark One's face. All she could focus on was Killian and Henry, and what it would be like to have them in her arms once more.
She closed her eyes, letting her love for her two men pour out. She thought of how Killian always smelled of the sea, and how he stuck his tongue out when he was deep in thought, and how his lips felt against every part of her body, and how his crooked smile could set her heart beating faster than the flap of a hummingbird's wings. She thought of Henry and how he had been the one to bring her to her to her real family, how he had never given up on her or his beliefs, how he had always known who his father was.
Most of all, she thought of how Henry was the product of the love that she and Killian shared.
As if guided by another force, Emma took her ring and placed it on her left hand, reveling in its smooth slide down her ring finger. She stared down at it, taking pride in how right it looked there, as if it were made just for her.
Suddenly, the ring glowed, startling her, and the diner's patrons. She let out a little cry when the ring heated up, just like it had a little while ago. But this time, a swirl of magic gathered around Emma, concentrated on the ring.
"What's going on?" Mary Margaret yelled, gritting her teeth as a wave of magic swept through the diner.
But no one could answer her, because in the next moment, a bright bolt of magic shot out from the ring, expanding and growing until it turned into something very recognizable.
"Is that a portal?" David asked with a fair amount of disbelief, chancing a glance at Emma. His daughter's attention was focused on her hand however, awe written all over her face.
"Looks like the Savior's come through again." Regina's tone was sarcastic, but even she couldn't hide the slight wonder at Emma's actions.
"What are we waiting for?" Emma let out a burst of laughter, amazed that it had actually worked.
Regina sighed, and waved her hand. A few backpacks appeared, filled with supplies that they might need. It seemed that Henry had learned preparedness from his other mother.
"Are you coming?" The former Queen eyed Rumplestiltskin, who sneered at them.
"Why should I?" The imp asked, oblivious of the dirty looks he received. "Henry means nothing to me anymore. He's not even Bae's son!" By his side, Belle shifted uncomfortably, not sure what she could say in this situation.
Emma resolutely ignored the man and turned to her parents and Regina. "You don't have to do this. You don't have to put yourselves in danger."
"But we do." David cupped his daughter's face. "Henry is our grandson, and we can't let you face Neverland by yourself. We left you once Emma, and it tore us apart. We can't let that happen again."
"Plus, I really would like to meet my son-in-law properly, before you guys hole yourselves away to make up for lost time.." Mary Margaret tried to stifle a grin, failing horribly.
David sputtered, and Emma's cheeks darkened, just the idea of having Killian again sending a tingle down her spine.
"Henry is my son too." Regina glowered at her. "I deserve to be there when we rescue him...and your husband."
Emma swallowed, a rush of affection washing over her at their declarations... even Regina's. She nodded, a determined glint entering her eyes.
"Alright." She picked up Henry's book and popped it in her backpack. Killian would get a kick out of reading their story, and she too wanted to see how their little adventure would be captured.
She faced the portal, its magic resonating with her on a level she didn't quite understand. All she knew was that her two True Loves would be waiting for her on the other side. "Let's go!"
Without further ado, the four of them jumped into the swirling vortex of energy, never once looking back.
It was all coming together slowly. Soon, the Savior would receive the Happy Ending she deserved.
Every story's Hero needed strong allies, and this young Hero drew people to him like a magnet.
In hindsight, maybe Henry hadn't thought this through as much as he should have.
He landed on the damp ground with a thud, wincing when he felt pain shoot up through his back.
He glanced at Greg and Tamara through narrowed eyes, watching as they fiddled with some sort device.
"Damn it!" Greg snarled, throwing the device on the ground. "It's useless!"
"The Home Office should know that we're here." Tamara stated, as if mostly just to reassure herself. "They'll find us and know what to do with him." She jerked a thumb at Henry, who gave her his best glare.
"Magic." She scoffed, rubbing her arms as a sudden gust of chilly wind blew through the land. "It's disgusting!"
"Disgusting?" Henry spoke quietly, his face deliberately blank. He was born from the rarest magic of all, and he definitely wasn't disgusting. "Is that what you think?"
"It's unnatural." Greg affirmed, his eyes dark. "And our employers agree with us."
"Do they?" Henry scoffed. "This is Neverland. A place built off of magic. Whoever your employers are, I'm not sure they have the same agenda you do."
His two kidnappers exchanged uneasy glances. Henry looked around for something sharp, wanting to cut through the bindings that held his hands together.
He scooted over to a pointy looking twig, trying to grab hold of it surreptitiously while Greg and Tamara argued about something or another. When the stick was finally in his hands, he tried to make it cut through the duct tape, but ended up giving himself splinters instead.
Why doesn't school prepare us for these scenarios? The boy thought viciously, gingerly flexing his fingers. Yep. Definitely splinters. What he needed to do was stall until he could think of another escape plan. His father was on this infernal island, and he was going to find him, one way or another.
"I'm hungry." Henry put on his best pout, making his tone as annoying as he possibly could.
"You just ate three hours ago!" Tamara glared at him. "I saw you!"
Henry decided not to comment on the fact that he had been stalked and not noticed it, or how creepy it was for a grown woman to watch a little kid eat.
"I'm a growing boy." He grinned, trying to wink at them. "I need all the food I can get."
"Just like your damned father." Tamara spat. "Neal eats like a pig too. Or...he ate like one." She and Greg exchanged cruel laughs.
At that, Henry sobered, a sneer crossing his face. "That man is not my dad!" He wouldn't let anyone insult Killian Jones...especially not the ghost of Neal Cassidy.
"Sure he isn't." Tamara raised a brow at him. "If that's what helps you cope, then I'll let you have it."
All of a sudden, Henry felt a light touch on his hand from the shrubbery behind him. He jumped, not knowing what sorts of creepy crawlies might be lurking in this foreign jungle. But the touch came again, and it felt distinctly human. Making sure that the two adults were occupied, Henry glanced over his shoulder, only to be met with two warm brown eyes staring back at him, glinting with mischief.
The woman they belonged to held a hand to her mouth, shaking her head. Two braids framed her tan face, and Henry thought she looked an awful lot like a Native American. Her clothing was light brown, making it easy for her to blend in with the landscape. Coupled with the waning sun, she was pretty much invisible.
His eyes widened in sudden realization as he mouthed a name to her in delight. The woman nodded, her braids bouncing up and down.
From the distance, Henry heard hoots and hollers, smoke rising through the sky.
"What the hell is that?" Greg demanded, his voice tinged with fear.
"Lost Boys probably." Henry grinned. If Pan was a villain, then that meant that his Lost Boys were as well.
Before either of his captors could say anything, Henry felt his head being forced down, as wind whistled in his ear. When he looked up, he saw two needle like things sticking out of Greg and Tamara's neck, with the woman standing beside him, a blow gun in her hands. She plucked a knife from her satchel and quickly cut his bindings, allowing him to finally stand up and stretch his legs.
"Thanks!" Henry said brightly, making sure to keep his voice low. "I'm Henry! And you must be Tiger Lily!" He stuck out his hand, his grin widening when she shook it enthusiastically.
"Welcome to Neverland, Henry." Tiger Lily ruffled his hair. "I'm sorry that I can't offer you a tour, but I'm afraid that we'll have to run."
Henry didn't need telling twice. He grabbed his backpack and followed the woman as fast as he could, unmindful of how winded he was feeling.
Together, they vaulted over small streams and mossy logs, running past scenery that Henry would have thought to be beautiful under other circumstances. The cries of the Lost Boys were growing faint, but that didn't mean the danger was over.
Finally, after what felt like forever, Tiger Lily came to a stop in front of a small cave, covered by a moss curtain. She murmured something in a language that he didn't understand. To his surprise, someone peaked out from behind it, letting him see only a flash of blonde hair.
Tiger Lily gave him a reassuring smile, and pushed him through the curtain. He found himself staring at a small woman with green eyes, who sported a messy bun of dirty blonde hair. She wore dark green clothing, clearly homemade, that looked like they'd been through better times. But like Tiger Lily, she had a smile on her face that put him at ease.
"This is Henry." Tiger Lily murmured.
"I know." The other woman smirked. "My name's Tinkerbell, but you can call me Tink!"
And for the first time since this crazy idea popped into his head, Henry finally felt like he'd made the right decision.
His journey was just beginning, and he would not rest until he accomplished what he'd set out to do.
Faith could be shaken, but never shattered.
"Do you know where my dad is?" Henry asked the two ex-Fairies as the three of them huddled around a fire. Night had fallen quickly on Neverland. It was an odd place, Henry thought. It changed moods quicker than a teenager, but he supposed that made sense considering who and what Peter Pan was.
Tiger Lily's lips quirked up, suddenly remembering another similar conversation she had all those years ago.
"Do you know where my wife is?"
If one added two decades, twelve inches, a fair bit of facial hair, more muscle tone, and an accent, Tiger Lily would have thought that Killian Jones was sitting with her once again.
"We do." Tinkerbell spoke, a wry smile crossing her face. "But we can't get you there till morning."
"Oh." Henry looked down, slightly disappointed. He knew that his dad was safe, but he'd waited so long for this moment that he couldn't help but feel impatient.
"Your father loves your mother very much." Tiger Lily cast a small twig into the fire. "At first, I was skeptical of his proclamation. When I was a Fairy, even though I was supposed to protect human kind, I didn't like them all that much. All I'd seen was human greed and arrogance. Even the "love" I witnessed never truly felt pure." She gave him a rueful look. "So I did not think it was possible for a mere mortal to feel as he did towards your mother."
Henry listened with wide eyes. He hadn't seen this in his Book before!
"But I was given a vision of the future. A vision of a beautiful woman who would become the Savior, and the two men by her side." She pointed at Henry. "You of course, being one of them. That's when I knew what I must do. I didn't have to place Killian under a spell. In fact, I didn't even think I could, seeing as how I don't have my wings."
"Magic works in mysterious ways." Henry stroked his chin, not seeing the grins that the women exchanged.
"Indeed." Tiger Lily nodded. "However, I found a way through one of my closest allies, and with the help of a few mermaids, your father is enjoying a deep slumber that he will soon wake from."
A jolt shot up through the boy's spine at the very thought of seeing his father in real life. Words and pictures were all well and good, but nothing would compare to being right next to the man that Henry had considered his greatest Hero (besides his mom).
He wondered if his father would like him. Yes, the man loved his mother more than anything, but they hadn't exactly planned for a child with all the craziness that was going on. Did he even want kids?
The boy's face fell. Had he been too naive in thinking that once his parents were reunited, they could be a happy family? What if his dad was disappointed in him? Tears rose to his eyes unbidden, which he wiped away furiously. Even if his dad didn't want him, he still wanted his mom to be happy. But where did that leave him?
"Oh Henry..." Tink scooted closer to him, placing a tentative hand on his shoulder. "Hey, look at me." Henry slowly lifted his head up, knowing that he probably wasn't in the best of mindsets.
"I know what you're thinking, little lad." The Fairy took a breath. "And I want to assure you that your father is going to be thrilled that he has a son."
"How do you know?" The boy whispered, his breath hitching. "He was so young when he lost mom. After that, he fought a five year long war which he never really recovered from and spent five more years trying to find mom! Is he ready to know that he's a father to an eleven-year-old?"
"No one's ever ready to be a parent, Henry. Think of your own mother, or your grandparents." Tink stated frankly. "You just...fall into the role. I don't know much about Killian Jones, but I've been around the Kingdoms, I've heard the stories, and I've seen proof of how devoted he is to his love. If this man can wait for three hundred years to be with your mother again, then what do you think he will do for the son that he helped create with that very same love?"
"I made the mistake of underestimating him when I first met him." Tiger Lily added gently. "He may be rough, or a little awkward, but he's your father, and he's going to love you even more than he loves your mother."
Henry sat there, staring at the flames morosely. He felt a bit better, but the familiar feeling of 'not being enough' crept up on him. While he loved both his mother's dearly, and knew that they loved him as well, he'd still been hurt by them, even if they thought they were acting in his best interest. He didn't think he could take being rejected by a man he had come to admire so wholeheartedly.
The Fairies left him alone after a little bit, which he appreciated. It hit him that even though he didn't know Killian Jones at all, he loved him in a way that went far beyond hero-worship. Was it foolishness to care for someone that he had never met?
Parents did it all the time with their unborn children, but this was the sort of the reverse of that.
Henry lay down on the warm ground, shutting his eyes tightly. He felt tears drip from his closed eyelids once more, but this time, let them fall. He cried for all the time that had been lost between his parents, he cried for the father he had never known, for the mother who had lost so much.
As he felt a scratchy blanket being placed over his shivering body, his tears finally came to a halt. He couldn't afford to be weak, to falter in his resolve. He'd come to Neverland find his father, and he was going to do it.
His parents deserved a second chance, and it was up to him to give it to them. Both his parents were Heroes, and if he wanted to call himself the son of Killian Jones, then it was high time that he started to act like it.
Feeling sorry for himself was not going to get him anywhere.
Little did Henry know that self-doubt and thoughts of inadequacy plagued the father he was trying to emulate. Killian Jones was the master of self-loathing, and it appeared that Henry had inherited the trait as well.
If only Henry could see how unfounded his fears were, then perhaps the lad would have a bit more confidence in himself. The love he had for Liam drove Killian to become the Hero that a Kingdom adored. The love he had for Emma brought him to Neverland. And the second that Killian saw Henry, the man would know that he would go to the end of the world, or time, for that child.
Love was the power behind all of Killian Jones' actions, and Henry Mills was more like his father than he realized.
Beloved non-human characters lent comfort and protection to the Heroes of every Tale. Rapunzel had Pascal. Ariel had Flounder. Jasmine had Rajah. Pinocchio had Jiminy Cricket. Mulan had Mushu. Snow White had birds. Cinderella had mice. Belle had talking cutlery.
But this story...this story had a Ship.
Falling through a portal was just as jarring as Emma remembered it to be. It felt like you were being sucked through a straw, every inch of you compressing.
She didn't know where this portal would be taking them. Straight to Killian? Into the hands of their enemy? To Henry? It didn't matter either. Whatever situation they found themselves in, they would find a way out.
It was amazing what having her memories back did to Emma's optimism levels. Perhaps that was the true purpose of love...it gave you hope.
Thud.
"Mother fu-" Emma barely managed to dodge out of the way before her father fell out of the portal, almost crushing her. She looked around, a sigh of relief escaping her when she saw that Regina and her mother were sprawled out nearby, both of them clutching their heads with painful grimaces.
"That landing was harder than I expected." She commented lightly, trying to gain her bearings. Her vision was blurry thanks to hitting her head on the hard ground, but she was able to make out some sort of cloth hanging far above them.
Ropes criss-crossed overhead as well, forming a pattern that was oddly familiar to Emma.
Her eyes widened suddenly, realization dawning upon her.
That wasn't cloth, it was a sail! A massive white sail that she could identify in a heartbeat.
"Are we on a boat?" David asked, getting to his feet unsteadily. He immediately walked over to his wife, helping her up before offering a hand to Regina.
"Ship." Emma muttered defensively, trying to calm her beating heart. She felt her throat close as she swallowed, her fingers trembling slightly. She all but sprinted to the side of the ship, a cry of joy leaving her when she saw the familiar yellow paint that she was well acquainted with.
"Emma?" Mary Margaret came over to her, a concerned look on her face. "Are you alright?"
"This is our ship!" Emma exclaimed, eyes brimming with happiness. "This is the Jolly Roger!" She ran her hand over a wooden rail, the same one she had been holding onto before she was forced into the portal.
"This is a Pirate ship?" David looked around, with a raised brow. "I was expecting something...darker."
Emma rolled her eyes. "Don't believe everything you see in Pirates of the Caribbean." Though...now that she thought about it, Killian's favorite disguise when they were on the run was a Blacksmith, and her surname was Swan (but with one N)...
"Killian adored this ship." Emma patted the Enchanted wood fondly. Maybe it was just her imagination, but the wood felt warm under her hand, almost like it was giving her a handshake. "He didn't want to a change a thing about it, especially because it was his way of honoring Liam. Plus, Sean told us that he went back to Navy after the Rebellion. The ship obviously went with him."
"There's magic protecting it." Regina said slowly. "But it's unlike anything I've ever felt before."
Emma frowned, taking note of their surroundings for the first time. The sky was dark, she could make out a crimson hue that peeked out through the cover of black clouds. Red sky at night, sailor's delight, Killian had always said. They were on water, since the ship was swaying slightly, but she couldn't see any discernible foliage.
Still, if Killian's ship was here, then they were 99% on Neverland, which was a start. Killian had been notoriously tight lipped when describing his ill-fated mission to the island, so she didn't really know much about this place, aside from a very detailed description of Dreamshade.
Emma tried to sense what Regina did. Her skill in magic was laughable, but there was no denying that she had potential in spades. She closed her eyes, taking a deep breath of the crisp air, trying to calm herself.
The ring on her finger thrummed, sending a pleasant warmth skittering up her body.
There was definitely something magical about the gem. All she knew about it was that Killian's father had given it to his mother as a sign on his undying devotion. Apparently, that same devotion didn't extend to their children however. Just like her, Killian and Liam had been abandoned at a very young age. Though while the intentions of her parents were in her best interest, Killian had portrayed his own parents to be selfish. He clammed up every time the subject was brought up, so she'd stopped asking after a while.
"Finally!" A female voice cried out from below them, startling the quartet. "I was thinking that you'd never come!"
They ran to the side of the ship, and promptly found themselves staring down at two humanoid figures in the water below who were illuminated by an ethereal glow.
"Mermaids?" Regina hissed in exasperation. "Seriously?"
Sure enough, Emma could make out the distinct tails that the creatures carried. The appendages swayed in the water, rocked by the gentle waves around them.
"Hi!" One of the mermaids chirped, waving enthusiastically at them. "I'm Oceana!"
"And I'm Atlanta!" The other beamed.
"And we're here to help you!" The exclaimed in unison, oblivious or uncaring of the looks they got in return.
"Huh?" Emma coughed, blinking a few times. From the stories she remembered about mermaids, they were always portrayed more as sirens, beautiful creatures who lured unsuspecting sailors into their arms, and then drowned them. These mermaids seemed rather friendly however, and that set Emma on edge.
"Your husband...Killian Jones?" Oceana giggled. "We helped hide him and the ship!"
"What?" Emma exhaled, having not expected that at all. Hope rose within her. Maybe this ordeal would be over faster than they thought!
"We were just following orders!" Atlanta slapped her tail against the water. "We were told that you would come for him, but no one expected that it would take three centuries!"
While she was suitably confused, it still made her breathe a sigh of relief to know that Killian was safe.
"So can you help us find him?" She asked, only to have her heart sink when they shook their heads, massive smirks on their faces.
"That's not part of our instructions! Besides, our other friends will get to him first. And if our spies are right, then your boy is with them right now!"
"Henry?" Regina breathed, Emma mirroring her joyous expression without thought. "He's safe?"
"Oh yes." Oceana nodded. "He had help escaping from those vile humans. Unfortunately, Pan wasn't in a benevolent mood when it came to their safety. One of our sisters found their bodies floating in our Lagoon. The sharks made a nice meal of them."
They flinched in unison. Despite the fact that Greg and Tamara were two people that Emma wouldn't have minded killing with her bare hands, she wouldn't wish what ever it was Pan had done to them either.
"Can Pan sense us?" David asked, looking around with trepidation.
"Not here." Oceana smiled reassuringly. "Mermaids were around on Neverland for much longer than Pan ever was. We have ways of cloaking our presence from him, or the Lost Boys should we wish. That's how the Captain has never been found, just like this ship. It's been frozen in time. But your son...Pan knows all about him. Luckily, Pan needs him alive, so he won't do anything until he's sure he can win."
The words were meant to assuage their fears, but it had the opposite effect. When would Pan attack Henry, and who was the boy with?
Just as Emma opened her mouth to ask these questions, the mermaids gave a cheeky grin and vanished below the water.
"Those...slimy fish!" Regina snarled, throwing her hands up in exasperation. "So now what are we supposed to do?"
"Rest." Emma said, letting out a harsh exhale. She too was annoyed by the mermaids' vague placation. Okay...Henry was safe, for the time being at least, and assuming she had interpreted correctly, it would be him who would find Killian. That would be...interesting to say the least, and she hoped she could be there to witness it (and tell Killian that they had a son).
"We have a long day ahead."
Which was true, but Emma also wanted some time to explore her beloved ship, to see what changes Killian had made, if any.
As if sensing her intention, the latch that led to all the cabins clicked open, startling everyone but Emma. She thanked the ship silently, receiving a creak of the wood in return. The Jolly was somewhat sentient, which had scared her at first. But the more time she spent on it, the more she had come to adore it...and it seemed like the ship hadn't forgotten her.
Without further ado, she scurried down below deck and threw open the doors to the Captain's cabin, barely aware that her parents had followed her.
Tears sprang to her eyes as she smelled the familiar scent of him. Just like the ocean, a heady mix of salt and musk enveloped her senses, and for a moment, it was almost like she was in Killian's arms her feet, the ship creaked again, and she knew that the Jolly was welcoming her home once more.
Her feet moved on their own accord towards the neatly made bed, the sheets starched and crisp, just how Killian liked it. You could take the boy out of the Navy, but you couldn't take the Navy out of the boy. Her Lieutenant...her Captain...he always had a thing for neatness, and that hadn't changed in the years they'd been apart.
Emma took in the sparsely decorated cabin, which looked the same as it had the last time she'd been here. In fact, she could still see the scuff marks of when they'd tried to move the bookcase, or the slight indent of the wood from where they'd nailed a painting to the wall. It had been her who had suggested to add a bit of color to the room, such as the illustration of the sea which hung above their bed.
Her fingers lightly brushed against the wood of the lone table in the room, one that Liam had procured in Agrabah so many years ago. There were so many memories that she'd had around this table with her family.
Liam getting drunk off his boots and serenading Evelyn in a horrible rendition of a popular sea shanty.
Killian puking on her dress when he'd become intimately acquainted with rum for the first time, then vowing never to touch the stuff again.
Evelyn lulling them all to sleep with her enchanting voice, the heat of the balmy summer night and the gentle rocking of the waves allowing them to drift towards Morpheus with ease.
And of course, there were more than a few times when she'd been pressed against the table, her fingers digging into the wood while Killian took her hard and fast, whispering gasped benedictions into her ear.
A sudden wave of nausea swept over her as she collapsed into a chair. Oh Gods! How could she have forgotten such a thing! She'd been unfaithful to him! Regardless of the fact that she didn't have her memories...she had slept with other men.
Yes, they were meaningless encounters, and frankly, she hardly remembered if she and Neal had even done the deed considering they'd known each other for all of two months before she was put in jail. But now that she knew the truth about who she really was, it made her sick to even think about it.
Behind her, Mary Margaret and David examined the cabin, trying to discern the personality of their daughter's husband. It still was weird to think that Emma had been married long before they had even met, or that she was married at all! But time travel was just a tad complicated, and its implications even more so.
Mary Margaret gasped as she caught sight of something on the ornate dresser, her eyes widening when she saw just what it was.
With trembling fingers, the woman reached out, holding up a large piece of yellowed parchment.
"Is that-" David breathed, swallowing heavily. "Is that Emma?"
Forever immortalized on that paper was a portrait of their daughter on the deck of the Jolly Roger. Even though the drawing was done in charcoal, somehow David could see how the sun sparkled on the ocean behind her. He could see the way her dress moved in the light wind, golden tresses dancing in abandon. He could see the way her green orbs twinkled in mirth as she smiled widely, no doubt at the man who had drawn this picture.
She was beautiful. Glorious. And completely in love.
"There's a letter on the back." Mary Margaret whispered, turning the thick paper over so they could read it together. It was written in elegant penmanship, a relic of days past.
My dearest Emma,
Out of the two of us, you were always the better artist. However, lonely days a sea mean that I must find a hobby, and I believe that over the past seven years, I've grown quite good at drawing. Eugene loves this one. He thinks that his Auntie Emma is the most beautiful woman in all the Realms, and I am inclined to agree with our nephew. Everyone forgot you, love. Even Evie. Eugene is the only one who knows the true depth of my pain in losing you, and he is naught but a child. I've raised him for the past three years. Evie succumbed to illness shortly after Eugene's birth, and her relatives were growing too old to care for the lad. I brought him on the ship at the tail end of the Rebellion. Gods Emma! I raised a child on a Pirate Ship!
But now Evie's gone, Liam's gone, and so are you. Eugene is the only thing that halts my descent into a dark abyss.
I know not when, or if you will ever see this. But know this. I will never stop fighting for you. My love for you has not waned, but grown even deeper. There's not a day that has gone by that I have not thought of you. The war is over. We won. But I still lost. Everything is meaningless without you, my love. The world has less color, food has less flavor, and time ticks by all too slowly.
I've made the rank of Admiral, and it pains me everyday to wear this damned uniform knowing that Liam should have been the one that it adorned. Frederic is a good King, and we made the right decision, but I cannot in good conscience call myself an Admiral. I will forever be a Captain. Your Captain. Your Hook. The King gave me a Duchy, Swan! I'm a bloody Duke! The Duke of Riverbend, to be more precise, which makes you my Duchess. I have a title, more land than I care for, and a secure future...but everything is meaningless without you.
I've written hundreds of these letters, Swan, but this seems to be the one that I'll keep forevermore. One day, I wish to give it to you, along with the drawing. Perhaps you can show me the more difficult intricacies of artistry. I still have not managed to master the art of shading.
How I yearn for you, long for you to be by my side once more. You would be five and twenty if you were here. I've counted the days and done the maths. We could be a family once more: me, you and our Eugene. He prefers to be called Flynn Rider, after that damnable book that you loved so much. The Tales of Flynnigan Rider. I read it to him every night. He reminds me so much of you, my love...and of Liam. He takes after Evie in looks however. Dark hair, dark eyes...he's a Jones by personality and a Fitzherbert in every other department.
I love you more than the moon loves the tides. More than the sun loves the sky. More than a Pirate loves gold. More than all the water in the Seven Seas. You always said that I had a way with words, but when it comes to my feelings towards you, words seem to fail me. You are my heart, Emma. My wife, my best friend, my other half.
I swear on all the Gods that I will find you, or perhaps you will find me, as is your nature. You never cease to amaze me, my dear. And somehow, I feel more optimistic about seeing you again than from when I began this letter. Wait for me, because I will wait for you, no matter how much time passes. Every day without your smile leaves me bereft of happiness, but I only have to close my eyes to see your face again.
Eternally yours,
Killian
David let out a shuddering breath, his eyes feeling oddly damp. He didn't have to look over at his wife to know she was sobbing. He could hear it loud and clear. No man would ever be good enough for his daughter. But Killian Jones...he came damn close.
He'd been carrying out the Charming Family Motto three centuries before it was even created, and that was something that even he could not find fault with.
David heard a soft cry from behind him, causing him to turn around. They hadn't even heard Emma sneak up to them, but she'd clearly seen the letter. Her nose was red, as were her eyes, her petite frame trembling.
Mary Margaret immediately engulfed their little girl in a crushing embrace, the two women letting out tears of anguish. David joined them, wrapping his arms around his True Loves, trying to ease away the pain that they all felt for the love that had been lost between Emma and her husband.
When David finally met Killian Jones, he decided that he would forego the "overprotective dad" speech that he had planned out. It was clear that there was no person in the universe who was better suited for his daughter than the man who had written this letter. Someone who was willing to fight for a love that may have no happy ending was alright in his book. (Alright meaning perfect).
And as David tucked his daughter into bed for the first time in nearly thirty years, he vowed to thank Jones for allowing him to glimpse Emma's past. She'd been happy, even if it was just for a few years. She'd known what True Love felt like, had let her walls down long enough for someone to win her heart.
For that, David would forever be in Jones' debt.
All the while, the Jolly Roger documented the happenings that occurred aboard, the wood warming in joy at the thought of being reunited with her Captain and newest First Mate.
In Killian Jones, David would find the brother he had always envisioned. In David, Killian would find the brother he had spent so long avenging. And in both of them, Storybrooke would find the greatest bromance to have ever existed.
A Hero's worth came not from his strength, but from his heart. And this young Hero had the truest and purest heart of them all.
Henry woke long before dawn broke, far too keyed up to sleep for any longer than absolutely necessary.
Today was the day. After years of reading about him, today was the day Henry was going to meet his dad.
He'd be lying if he said he wasn't completely terrified. Despite what the Fairies had said, he still didn't know what his father was going to think of him.
Until the two Fairies woke, Henry stared up at the dark ceiling of the cave, going through every possible scenario he could think of once the women took him to his dad.
The biggest question that Henry had regarded how to wake Killian up. Obviously, True Love's Kiss had to be enacted, but did that mean he had to wait until his mom found them?
It was obvious that Pan knew what was going on. He'd sent the Lost Boys to Greg and Tamara only five minutes after they'd landed. Even if there was some magical protection around his dad, Henry knew it wouldn't last long once he got to his dad's resting place. Pan wanted him for a reason, and he couldn't risk getting caught while his dad was still sleeping.
"You're up awfully early."
Henry sat up, only to find himself face to face with Tink, who gave him a knowing smirk.
"Couldn't sleep." The boy admitted, wiping the grit from his eyes. He glanced over at Tiger Lily, who was still dozing comfortably.
"I don't blame you." Tink sighed. "But don't wear yourself out."
"I'm definitely going to crash after all this is over," Henry let out a breath. "But until I find my dad, I don't think I can bring myself to properly rest."
"Jones is lucky to have such a dedicated son." Tink leaned over and patted his hand. "You don't have to carry such worry in your heart, Henry. Everything's going to be fine."
"But is it?" Henry snapped, regretting it immediately. He made to apologize, but the former Fairy just smiled at him.
"Yes. It is." She said firmly, her tone leaving no room for argument. "You have an amazing gift Henry. The power of your convictions is far greater than you can ever imagine, and it will be your biggest ally."
Henry didn't understand a word of what that meant, but he nodded anyway. Something about Tinkerbell put him at ease.
"So when do we leave?" He hoped his tone wasn't over eager.
Tink let out a snort. "Soon. Once the sun comes up, we both gain and lose an advantage. Pan and his Lost Boys operate primarily in the dark. They tend to sleep during the day, but Neverland is fickle. Night can fall within just a few hours, and the island is always changing. Luckily, Tiger's been here for ages, and she knows the land pretty well."
"How are we going to get to my dad?" Henry pondered aloud. "I mean, if Pan knows that we're here, then aren't we at a disadvantage?"
"Have faith little one." Tink winked at him. "We have more allies on this land than you may think."
Before Henry could question the woman, he heard Tiger Lily let out a breath, indicating that she was awake. She all but jumped up, remarkably alert for someone who had been snoring a few minutes ago.
"We'll leave in fifteen minutes." The older Fairy yawned, stretching luxuriously. She glanced down at Henry, her lips curling up in happiness as the boy lit up. "Soon child, soon we will find your father."
They packed quickly, moving with efficiency and haste. Henry marveled at how in sync the two Fairies were, and wondered how long they'd known each other. Tinkerbell wasn't in his book, and Tiger Lily was only mentioned in passing, so he didn't know much about them, or Neverland, besides the fact that his Uncle Liam had died here.
As soon as they stepped out of the cave, Henry looked around warily, almost expecting Pan to burst from the sky and try to take him away. Storm clouds covered the vast expanse above. Henry wondered if his mom had got here. Hopefully she had. It would make explaining things to his dad much easier.
"So, what now?" Henry asked.
The two Fairies exchanged mischievous looks. "Just watch!" Tink winked, bowing gallantly to Tiger Lily. "Would you do the honors, sister mine?"
Tiger Lily grinned, her white teeth a contrast against her tanned skin. A look of concentration came over her features. She tensed her neck muscles, and Henry heard a low growl rumble around them.
The growl intensified in sound, bursting from the Fairy's mouth. It stayed in the air, raising goosebumps on Henry's arms.
"Now we wait." Tiger Lily smirked lazily at him. "Prepare to be amazed."
Before Henry could open his mouth to ask what she was talking about, he felt the ground shaking below him. Melodic thuds were heard off in the distance, almost like feet hitting the ground. Without thinking, he latched onto Tink, who patted his head comfortingly.
Suddenly, from straight above them, a massive furry figure landed straight in front of the trio.
Henry gaped.
What...what was that?
It looked like nothing he'd ever seen before! Easily ten feet tall, the...beast...peered at them with the most vibrant green eyes he had ever seen. Large floppy ears jutted out from a massive head with frighteningly sharp teeth in full display. Henry got the impression that the beast was smiling at them, and with his tongue lolling out and head cocked to one side, it sort of looked like a puppy?
A puppy that could rip you to shreds in an instant.
"Henry, meet Gruff, the Neverbeast." Tink patted the creature...Gruff's leg, stroking its gray fur fondly. She turned to the beast. "Gruff, this is Henry."
Henry held his breath when the beast sniffed him, barely flinching when a wet tongue came out and licked his cheek. "That tickles!" He giggled, his fear vanishing when the beast let out a yip that sounded more like a bark.
"Gruff here is going to take us to your father." Tiger Lily explained, rubbing Gruff's belly. The beast gave a pleased sigh, its surprisingly pleasant breath ruffling Henry's hair. "Right boy? Do you want to see Killian again?"
At his father's name, the beast perked up, letting out a whine. Henry looked at Tiger Lily in confusion. "My dad knew, er, Gruff?"
"Killian's the one who named him." Tiger Lily confirmed. "He and Gruff were practically inseparable after they first met. In the eight months your dad was on Neverland before I put him to sleep, they spent every day together."
Henry hadn't known that. He hadn't even known that his dad was here for so long! This just confirmed his belief that he didn't know the story as much as he thought he did.
Gruff huffed, nudging Henry with his enormous head. It was as though the creature sensed Henry's dejection, and was trying to cheer him up. Cautiously, Henry reached out a hand and petted Gruff's head, amazed by how soft the texture of his fur was.
In the next moment, he was hoisted through the air and deposited right onto Gruff's back. Tink climbed in front of him, while Tiger Lily took flank.
Without warning, they took off into the sky. Gruff's bat like wings beat powerfully, creating great gales of wind that jostled the foliage below. Henry flew back into Tiger Lily's arms, blushing when she patted his head and pushed him forward again.
His heart pounded. Not just because they were soaring through the sky, but because he knew that he was about to see his dad very shortly. This was happening.
This was really happening. After years of believing in the curse, years of reading his parents' story, everything was finally coming together! He leaned forward, unable to contain the huge grin on his face. Burying his nose in Gruff's soft fur, he inhaled the clean pine scent, content washing over him.
Had his dad ever done this? Had he felt the same thrill of being in the air like Henry had?
Underneath him, the giant beast purred unexpectedly, sending vibrations through Henry. Gruff turned his head backwards, displaying countless rows of sharp teeth that were bared in a smile. As if he understood what Henry was thinking, Gruff let out an excited howl, zig-zagging forward.
"Show off." He heard Tiger Lily snort behind him.
He watched the scenery change below, turning from a jungle to a deciduous forest. The leaves were bright yellow, orange, and red, and the air cooled as well. Henry was glad he'd brought his jacket.
"We're almost there!" Tink yelled, patting Gruff on the back. Gruff let out a joyous rumble, making a beeline for an open clearing below. Henry gritted his teeth as they landed in a puff of soil, his hands buried in Gruff's fur.
The boy felt the two Fairies slide off, but he stayed on. His head was pounding, his ears roaring from his own heartbeat. This was it. This was real. He was about to meet his dad.
With a deep breath that did absolutely nothing, Henry cautiously made his way down Gruff's side, smiling when the beast nudged him in comfort. Looking around, he could almost feel the magic around this place.
There was a lake nearby that sparkled in the sunlight. Everything around him seemed to be alive. Under his feet, leaves crunched delightfully, making him feel as though he was back in Storybrooke.
"Um...so where's my dad?" Henry asked, rubbing his head sheepishly. He knew he sounded a bit repetitive, but who could blame him?
"Do you remember when I mentioned an ally who helped me put your father to sleep?" Tiger Lily asked with amusement. Henry thought back to his conversation with her and nodded.
"That was Gruff." The Fairy pointed to the beast who wagged his enormous tail at the sound of his name. "Gruff has magic of his own, and is Neverland's protector. He wakes only when he has to. When Pan first came here, Gruff woke up, and he's been awake for over three centuries. Gruff's magic helped me with your father, and it's Gruff who will lead you to him."
Gruff wandered towards Henry, giving the boy an affectionate lick on the cheek. Henry watched with fascination as Gruff let out a gentle puff of breath, the familiar tingle of magic washing over him.
Henry gasped, his jaw dropping open when the forest in front of him rippled. Gruff's magic propelled outward, causing the rippling to escalate.
"What's happening?" Henry asked the Fairies.
"There's no better place to hide your father than in plain sight." Tiger Lily kept her eyes on what was happening in front of them. "Gruff used his powers to conceal Killian behind a...screen of sorts. A magical cloak if you will."
"Watch carefully." Tinkerbell commanded.
And he did. Henry saw how the land in front of him vanished, only to reveal identical foliage behind the layer of magic.
But with one notable exception.
Henry took a shuddering breath, his eyes darting towards the Fairies. They nodded with soft smiles, motioning for Henry to go towards the very thing that kept him immobile.
About one hundred feet away from him, Henry could make out a glass capsule...or was coffin a better word? He knew what was in there. It why he had gotten himself kidnapped.
Fear kept him rooted to the spot. Fear of what would happen next. He really wanted his mom here. Even if she didn't have her memories, she would know what to do!
"Go on, little one." Tinkerbell pushed him forward. "There's nothing to be frightened of."
That's easy for you to say. Henry griped mentally, but did as he was told. Each step that he took felt weighed down by an invisible weight. His palms were sweating, and despite the cool air around them, he felt overheated.
Even Gruff's comforting presence wasn't doing much for his nerves.
He felt nauseous, like he could upchuck his meager breakfast at any time. This was it. The moment of truth. He'd never felt so nervous in all his life, not even when he'd knocked on Emma's door on that crisp night. Henry reached out, tangling his fingers in Gruff's fur, letting the large beast lead him along.
Slowly, ever so slowly, he came to a halt right above the glass coffin. Tears pricked his eyes as he drank in the sight of his father, his mother's True Love, for the first time.
Boots.
Leather pants.
Loose black tunic.
Sword around his waist.
A handsome tanned face that looked even sharper out of the Book rested peacefully within the confines of the glass. Long lashes that framed angled cheekbones, his brow covered with messy bangs that belonged to windswept dark locks, the very same shade as Henry's.
This was Killian Jones. His father. The man who had sacrificed everything in the hopes of being reunited with Emma. The man he adored, even though he'd never heard his voice, a man he strove to live up to, a man who he wanted to be in his life more than anything.
Henry sank to his knees, his hands resting on the cool glass. For a hysterical moment, he was reminded of his grandparents' story, of how Prince Charming had come to say goodbye to the woman he loved only to awaken her with True Love's Kiss.
Right now, his dad was kind of like Snow White, and Henry was sure that his mom would be the perfect Prince Charming.
"He's still as spry as the day I left him." Tiger Lily said from somewhere above him, a touch of melancholy in her voice. "You know Henry...I've never had children, or godchildren before. But this man evoked some of the most maternal feelings within me, and that was because he had a particular proclivity for trouble."
Henry didn't look up, the fear of bursting into tears preventing him from saying anything.
"Not bad." Tinkerbell mused, amusement in her words. "I've heard so much about him, but never seen him before. I can see where you get your looks from, Henry, and why your mother fell in love with him."
Despite the situation, Henry blushed. Indeed, he did look very much like Killian. Besides their eyes, they had the same jaw, the same nose, the same hair...
"So, do we wait here till my mom comes?" Henry asked, not taking his eyes off of Killian's still form.
"Why would we do that?" Tiger Lily crouched down next to him, brown eyes shining with warmth.
"So she can wake him up?" It came out as a question.
"Why wait for your mother when we have you?" Tinkerbell grinned, flashing a quick grin at him.
Henry's stomach dropped, his eyes widening in disbelief. "Wait! What?" He shook his head furiously. "How can I wake him up? He doesn't even know me! You guys are Fairies! You should know how True Love's Kiss works!"
"Ye of little faith." Tiger Lily snorted, her gaze softening. "Henry, within you there is an incredible power. The power of belief. Pan needs you for that very reason, or more specifically, he needs your heart. You, my dear boy, are the Product of True Love, as is your mother. Two generations of the purest magic in any realm runs through your veins. Do you know what a gift you are to the world?"
Henry looked away, unable to stop the burn in his cheeks. "I'm not-"
"It's time that you believe in yourself a little bit, Henry." Tinkerbell ruffled his hair fondly. "And believe in your father. He may not have met you before, but you are still his son. Obviously any child of his would be his other True Love. I know it sounds scary, but all you need to do is have a little faith."
"It's not that easy!" The boy shouted, frustration mounting. "I...I'm..." He trailed off, tugging at his hair in frustration.
"Scared?" Tinkerbell finished for him. "We know Henry. And it would be odd if you weren't frightened. But that's what makes a Hero a Hero. Despite being scared, they do what they have to. That's what bravery is, little one. And that bravery that your parents and grandparents have, has been given to you. You are the reason that this story will have a happy ending."
Henry took a deep, wheezing breath. The Fairy's words did put a little confidence back in him. But would it be enough? He could try waking his dad up, and if it didn't work, then they would wait for Emma. But if did work...
Would Henry be ready to face his dad for real?
He looked at the sleeping man's face, fingers trailing over the glass that encased him. He could do this. If not for himself, then for his mother. She deserved having Killian back.
With clenched teeth, he nodded at the Fairies, rising and stepping away from his father's body. "I'll do it."
The women exchanged proud looks. Tiger Lily patted Gruff on his leg, whispering something in the beast's ear. He let out a yip, and breathed over the glass, all of them watching as it dissolved into nothingness.
Gruff whined, nudging Killian's still form with his nose sadly. He lumbered back, before giving Henry a push forward, causing the poor boy to stumble and land right over his father's body.
He was warm, Henry noted, absently running his hand over his dad's shirt. His fingers crept up to Killian's chest, and a sigh of relief went through him at the steady heartbeat he felt. Whatever this magic was, it mimicked a sleeping curse pretty well.
The boy glanced back at the Fairies, who nodded with wide smiles, encouraging him. He swallowed, his breathing getting labored. Had a child ever woken a parent with True Love's Kiss? Especially a parent who had no idea that said child existed?
Henry was sure that the answer was no, but there was always a first. He looked down at his dad, at Killian Jones, his face set in determination. He had to try. This was the man he had gotten himself kidnapped for. This was the man who would rather wait for three centuries for his wife than grow old without her. This was a man who could upend an entire Kingdom for the sake of his family.
Without anymore hesitation, he bent down and kissed his dad's forehead, just like his mom had done for him. Henry pulled away, his heart beating out of his chest. He closed his eyes, waiting for the magic to wash over them, but nothing happened.
"It...it didn't work!" He stammered, crushing disappointment filling him. Of course it wouldn't work. His dad didn't even know that he existed.
The Fairies however, just had soft smiles on their faces, as if they knew something that he didn't.
"Why are you so happy!" Henry cried out, tears finally spilling from his eyes. "I couldn't wake him up! I told you that-"
But then he felt it. A pure, shimmering pulse of magic emanating from his father's body.
Gasping, Henry scrambled to kneel by Killian, grabbing the man's hand in disbelief.
Like a gale of wind, magic swept around them, glittering like gold as a maelstrom of energy rippled through Neverland, letting each and every one of its inhabitants feel the power of True Love.
Henry's eyes were riveted on Killian's face, watching as the man's eyelids fluttered ever so slightly. A small groan left the man's lips, followed by a rather noisy yawn.
Suddenly, he shot to a sitting position, regretting it immediately, by the way he clutched his head.
"Bloody hell!" The man rasped, taking a few gulps of much needed air, his first conscious breaths in three centuries.
Henry froze as his father took in his surroundings with confusion, waiting in bated breath for Killian to notice him. Ever so slowly, the older man turned his head towards Henry.
And as identical blue eyes met for the first time, Henry knew that somehow, everything was going to turn out just fine.
The bond between parent and child might be invisible, but that didn't make it any less real.
Gruff is real according to Disney! He's the protector of Neverland!