Hello all. I'm super excited to give you the next chapter. I don't know how this one is gonna go over, kinda threw me into a bit of a tizzy. To many things I wanted to do, but not enough excuses to do them. Oh well, but here we are, back with the cast of Treasure Island. Hope you all are enjoying it so far, and hope I don't disappoint.

Shout Outs:

Colineodonewithyou: Why thank you for your compliment, I'm glad I got such a reaction from you. Hope you enjoy the continuation. :3

Nouqueret: I couldn't do Pirates of Caribbean, feels a bit to over done. Plus Jack sparrow is a bit to much like Killian at times.

Fatalani: Glad you did find this! Hope you have a blast reading more. :3

Inthetardiusasitshouldbe: First off, amazing name! Love Dr. Who. Secondly, I will give you more! ;3

As always thanks to the rest of my readers out there, THANK YOU! I love the reviews, and comments they make me smile every time one pops up, so please don't be shy and review!

~Artimas.


Chapter 9: The Pearl

Emma gasped for breath her side still throbbing in pain. The cloaked man fell to his knees and straddled her, one hand clasping her wrists and the other tearing open her jacket. The very stench of his unclean body was overpowering. While his hand ran down her camisole she shook uncontrollably.

The barest shred of moonlight fell across his face, revealing only a sickening grin. She wouldn't let this happen. No she couldn't. Lunging forward she bite him in the wrist, skin breaking and blood filling her mouth. He screamed, yanking his arm back, almost snapping her head off with the force. With a growl he struck her. The world ringing, her face on fire and her mind dazed.

"You bitch!" He hit her again, and then a cold blade pushed against her neck. "Fun and games are over." He grazed it down her chin, the pinching feeling, causing all hope to die. He didn't stop, the knife slowly trailing to the bottom of her shirt.

"Emma!" The man tensed, halting all actions, head rising towards the call.

"You're a lucky little bird." Leaning in and forcing her head to the side, whispering against her ear, "Next time…"

He was off her in an instant, the sound of his foot prints echoing through the alleyway.

"Bloody hell…Emma!" Killian was close now, but she couldn't bring herself to get up. Trying her hardest she pulled back all emotions. She refused to let him see her cry.

"Pull yourself together Ems…come on."

Suddenly she felt the warmth of a body around hers. His arms were strong, pulling her up into a hug, cradling her.

"Emma…" Raising a hand Killian pushed the hair out of her face, forcing her to open her eyes and meet his. Fear penetrating her gaze. The look on his face must have reflected her own, but she tried to hide it. The emotions she desperately tried to shove away were reeling forward as he embraced her.

"Let me go." She whispered, pulling away from him. Away from the warmth of his touch.

"Emma..."

"I'm fine Hook!" She forced herself to stand. She just needed to be alone, she had never felt so vulnerable in all her life. She didn't quite know how to process this. How to get rid of the images, not only was she almost raped, she shuddered at the thought. But, she lost their one chance to escape. The tremble in her voice didn't go unnoticed.

"Your not!" Again he tried to reach out to her. One hand grasping her shoulder trying to make her turn towards him.

"Leave me alone." she bit back. Walking a few paces away, she could hear the defeated breath release from him.

He stayed silent for a moment "I'm sorry."

"Well sorry isn't good enough! Where the hell were you Hook!" The words slipped out, accusingly. She didn't know why, but she wanted it to be his fault. It was easier that way, much simpler than taking the blame herself. Much easier than expressing grief.

"You're the one that didn't come back!" A growl came from him, "What about Silver? Where was he?" Hook spat the name out like it was dirt. "Would you rather he had come to your rescue? Well sorry Princess!"

The comment stung, slapped her in the face, but she needed it. This wasn't his fault, it was hers. All of this. Hook had come for her, why else would he have been out, and here she was trying to rip him to shreds.

Sheepishly she replied, "I'm sorry."

All the hot air between them deflated, and soon his arms were back around her. The warmth of his body shocking her into silence. Maybe this wasn't so bad, maybe she could just let him hold her. His grip on her tightened, and a muffled voice cut through her hair.

"You terrified me." He was shaky, and she couldn't help but feel appalled for her actions.

As the moments passed, she deemed it enough. Slowly she pulled herself away from him. The look in his eyes pleading. But for what? Lifting one hand to his cheek and tilting her head to the side she tried to read him. Was he really that concerned about her? Or was it just because she was his ticket to Story Brooke? Honestly, she didn't know, but she hoped it wasn't the latter.

"I'm fine." He visible relaxed, looking down to her open coat, and torn shirt. A scowl forming on his face.

"I'll kill him. Rest my words, I'll find the man that did this, and make him suffer." It was truth, but the flattery of his words could wait. Biting her lip she nervously pointed out the obvious.

"He has the stones…" Hooks fists clenched. "I…I didn't mean for him to get away."

"Swan."

She ignored him. "I should have hid them better. Left them with you." Anticipating the yell, she cringed, but it never came.

"Its okay." The look on his face was not what she expected. She couldn't put her finger on it, but it made her uncomfortable. Something she didn't want to decipher.

"It's not okay Hook." Her brow scrunched in concern, " How is it okay? Ever since this whole thing begun, I've just made one mistake after another" She begun to pace, "First the fey. Then here. How are we going to get home Killian? How are we going to get back to Henry?" She was beginning to get hysterical, her pitch rising with the panic. "What if there is no magic here! What happens if we can't find another portal?"

"Emma…" He took both her hands in his forcing her to stop and look him in the eye, "You don't even know how wonderful you actually are." His tone became serious, "So what we lost the stones. We'll find another way love. There is always another way."

"But,"

"Emma. I promise I will get you home to your lad." Before she could utter a reply he perked up. "we should go."

Quickly he removed her jacket and replaced it with his own. His hand shaking as he snapped the coat up.

Searching the area she could feel the eyes on them. From where she had no idea, but they must have made quite a ruckus. It was only natural people would take interest.

"I'm afraid we may have caused a few attention seekers." He explained, "I don't know about you…but I don't want to wait around for whoever set this up."

"Set this up?"

"You think someone randomly attacked you, most of the men here would fear for their lives if they went after a pirate's lass. No offense love, your gorgeous but most would find you to dangerous."

"I don't know who it was…but…he did mention being hired."

"Its okay Emma…Let's just worry about ourselves for right now love."

"Silver offered refuge. We could leave with them, tomorrow."

"Now why would he do that?" The protective glint in his eye was back, and he roughly grabbed her elbow leading her out of the alley.

"They need magic. I was on my way back to tell you when…" She paused, a nasty thought creeping forward. "When, you were a bit busy swapping spit with that wench in the bar." She knew she sounded childish, her tone snappy and bitter.

"I didn't kiss her."

"You don't have to explain it to me." She grumbled.

"Yes I do Swan." but she was past listening, holding up a hand of dismissal. Her brain simply couldn't tolerate anymore.

"Really Miss Swan…you are a piece of work." He wasn't angry, almost laughing at the sudden mood change. "Tough yes, but sometimes I wish I knew how that brain of yours worked."

She didn't reply, just continued to march towards the Inn.

Was it so bad that he had kissed another woman? I mean he wasn't hers to hold such power over. He really did have any right to be with anyone. Then why was it making her heart ache, and why is this currently more important than anything else?

Shock, that's all it was. The events of tonight were just messing with her emotions, creating the wrong priorities.

They stayed silent the rest of the walk, neither touching, or looking at one another. Thoughts consuming them. When they reached the Inn, everyone raised a mug and shouted. It was as if nothing out of the ordinary had happened. When they reached Hooks room, Emma found herself lingering.

"Good night Miss Swan." He attempted a smile while pulling out his key.

Why was she waiting? What was she waiting for? Nothing Emma. Your just a bit frazzled is all, a good night sleep is what you need. Nodding her head curtly she turned.

"Yeah. Good night Hook."

Once in the room, she felt lonely. No Hook to distract her. She felt vulnerable, Lost, panic stricken…jealous? No, not jealous. It was horrible.

Slumping down on the bed she kicked her boots off to the floor.

"Think happy thoughts." She snickered at the reference, but her mind took on a category. Story Brooke.

Home…how long had it been since her and Mary Margaret left? Was Henry back in school? Did Cora find another way?

How could she just abandoned him again, after all that time promising she would always come back. Were they even looking for her? Probably not, they all most likely assumed her to be dead.

"God Emma…shut up…" She pushed her palms against her eyes, trying to will her sentiments away. It didn't work, and she choked back on tears. There was no time for her to be such a weakling! But why not? No one was here to see her. Maybe it would be okay, just this once.


Hook waited to enter his room until Emma had closed her door. Once she was safely inside, he let out a frustrated sigh. Her accusations were killing him, the look in her eye when he found her haunting his mind.

She had looked so broken, and defeated. Those were feelings he never expected or wanted to see her experience again.

In his annoyance he kicked the nearest object, the door. Why in the world would he have let her deal with pirates on her own! He should have never put her in danger. God damn it Killian!

But she was tough. She was a fighter, smart and witty. She didn't enjoy being treated like a sniveling little whelp, and so he hadn't. In actuality she was the strongest woman he had ever met. Maybe not physically, but mentally.

He thought of Silver for a minute. What was his deal…something was just off about him.

"As if Emma would even listen to my complaints."

Through the walls he could hear her move, slumping down onto the bed. She had taken tonight rather well, a bit to well. Curious he leaned against the wall, listening. The muffled sound of cries striking him. He panicked. With a light rap on the partition she stopped.

"Emma?" his throat hitched, what the hell is he going say? It'll be okay? Don't let it get you down? These were all horrible. Where were his smooth lines?

"Leave me alone Killian." His throat went dry, and her cries became softer. The knot in his stomach growing larger by the second. There was nothing he could do. No words he could use to sooth her.

In his many years, he had never known how to handle a woman weeping. Even when Milah would sob over her son, he felt powerless. Clearing his throat he attempted to sooth her through the divide.

"Emma…just talk to me love."

The voice was so muted he almost missed it, "okay."

Without a second thought, he left the room. Stopping at her doors handle.

Instead of opening it he stared. This was it. This was the moment that would separate her from an interest, to something that truly mattered. I mean what was he doing anyways? Your just trying to get her back on track Killian. Right?

If this was any other woman he would leave them, let them collect their own pieces. Sometimes he was the one breaking their hearts, but this wasn't some random floozy. This was Emma Swan. The only person who never asked for help, who cringed at the mere thought of relying on another. The woman that irritated him to no end, but made his heart melt every time their eyes met.

Gathering his nerve he opened the door, the lock already off. The room was dark, just the pale light from the moon drifting through the open window. The covers were bundled around her like a shell.

"You came over?"

"I'm just next door love, not a long walk." A small smile tugged at her lips, and she almost rolled her eyes at the poor joke.

"Well…" She fidgeted, as if she didn't know what to do with herself.

"If you want…I'll just…"

"No…" She made a place for him. "You can stay."

Following his heart for once, he went to her all doubt of his actions falling to the side as he settled in. As if the weight of the world was lifted from her shoulders she leaned into him a small sigh escaping her. For Killian, time stood still. He couldn't even recalling breathing until she began to talk. He mostly listened, as she spoke of Henry, and the home she wished so badly she was back too.

"What about you lass?" He knew he shouldn't push, but this was the first time she had ever opened up to him. The first time he got a glance of what laid behind the Saviors mask.

Pulling away from him, she leaned her back against the wall.

"I'm a mess Killian." He knew she wasn't referring to right now, it went deeper than that. "I've been hurt to many times. I've been living a lie, half a life. Trusting few, loving none. God that sounds Emo."

"What's emo?"

"Nothing…" She chuckled a bit at his question. "Its just a word we use, for depressing people. Enough about me…what about you."

Glancing down at his hand he fidgeted with his hook. She hadn't really said all that much about herself, but he accepted her inquiry.

"Milah. She was the one that made my world go round, the thing that made me want to be a better man, to wake up in the morning. When I was with her, it felt so perfect. The world was jealous of that woman's beauty and charm," A hollow laugh escaped him, "Then just like that." He snapped his fingers, "She was killed. Heart ripped from her chest, dying in my arms." He raised his arms, cradling an invisible body, "I used to be able to see her face so perfectly, but three hundred years takes a toll on the mind. Nothing more than a fuzzy image left for me to remember."

She smiled sadly at him, before nodding and staring straight ahead. When she spoke he almost jumped, "His name was Neal." She struggled for a moment, almost scared to share her secret. "He took everything I had, made me trust him, love him, he gave me hope. I wanted to be a better person. Then he just tossed it away, like it was nothing. I was replaced by greed." Her jaw hardened as she pushed back a sob. "I thought we could have a happy ending, but I guess I was to naive to see he was just using me. I used to dream about me and him, having this huge house" She raised her arms, as if the scene was folding out before them. "I guess I just didn't realize I wasn't in the picture. I'm sure he's happy now."

A small painful grin fluttered across her face.

"We'll show them…" A little laugh escaped her, "I'll get my dream, a white picket fence, a family that loves me." Her eyes glazed over, until she turned to him and asked, "what will you get?"

"I don't know…" He had never really thought about it, the anger driving him through the last three hundred years. "Peace I think."

He felt her hand in his, and her body lean in, her eyes fluttered shut and she gently placed a kiss to the corner of his mouth.

"Thank you." She blushed prettily. His breath caught in his throat. Slowly he tilted her head back towards his, and kissed her. It was light, and her lips were timid and shy. He could feel his heart beat faster, as she responded. Her legs shifted onto his lap, as one hand trailed to his hair. Their mouths never parting from the other except for air.

He could feel her heart pounding, against his chest, the warmth of her body, the taste of her sweet mouth. She was perfect. His tongue glazed across her bottom lip, and she moaned to let him in. Seconds after he was gently pushed back.

"Killian. I'm…" the words were a struggle, and he knew that she was trying to create distance between them.

Her soft hands played with his jacket, her gaze burning into him. "I just don't think…this is right."

He placed a kiss to her cheek, "Why?" His whisper sent chills through her. "Do you always want to be alone Emma?"

"Yes. You can't change that." biting her lip, she glanced away. "It's easier."

For a second he wanted to prove her wrong, but she didn't need a lustful pirate taking advantage of her. He rolled onto his back, letting her fall on her side. "For tonight then, humor me." Pulling her body against his he settled in. "My bed sucks."

He heard her chuckle, but she didn't fight him as he yanked the covers over them.

"Just for tonight Killian."

"Aye love…I know." He smiled when she didn't let go of his hand. For now this would do.


She woke up feeling refreshed and rested, but the spot next to her was empty and cold. Was it all just a dream? It had to be. There was no way she let him in, no way. The bed shifted, and as she opened her eyes there he was. Pulling his boots up over his leather pants. It felt like a bad sex scene from a movie, except without the actual act.

"Good morning love" he winked, "Sleep well."

"Hook." Her voice came out raspy, her mind still trying to contemplate her lack of common sense the night before. God she was pathetic, trying to take comfort with Captain Hook of all people.

"Darling before another word utters from that stunning mouth of yours." He held up a hand, "save the dramatics. It never happened." With a strained smile he stood and grabbed his coat, not daring to meet her pointed stare. "Breakfast, then off to meet with that boy of yours. I'll meet you downstairs." Then he left, practically slamming the door behind him.

Well that was fine by her. Right? He apparently wanted to pretend just as much as she did. I mean it wasn't like they had done anything. They were just private people.

It was a mistake in the first place, telling him so much about her life. Not even her parents knew what happened between her and Neal. But you couldn't go back and change things. Taking a deep breath she pushed away any feelings leftover from the night before. Just hoping things wouldn't be awkward from her on out.

But now wasn't the time, she reminded herself, they had bigger fish to fry. Like finding a portal, and getting the hell out of here. Jumping up from the bed she readied herself, and with one sweeping glance said good-bye.

The bar was empty, most of the men from the night before sleeping off the amount of alcohol consumed. Killian waved her over as if it was hard to find him. A smile pulled at her lips as she slid in next to him.

"Hope you like porridge." He pointed to the hot bowl in front of her, a side of cream and a cup of raspberries.

"Looks great." Without any etiquette she dug in. Practically licking the bowl clean. Killian on the other hand savored each bite.

"Where are we headed then lass, with Silver?"

"An island. The story is from my world, so I can only assume that it's the center of this one. If we can get to it, I'm almost positive we'll find a portal."

"Alright…and what's the catch?"

"What are you talking about?"

"Pirates don't just let people on their ships Emma." He leaned in smirking. "They want something from them."

"They need to see the barrier up around it. That's all. I'm assuming a cloaking thingy."

"I would make a better title for it then that…" He laughed at her inability to describe, "but love, you just learned you could do magic…do you really think you can help?"

"We have to try Hook." She looked down at her drink. "It could be a rift, and if that's the case." She shrugged, "Were good as there."

"Alright." He seemed to consider their other options, before nodding in agreement. "Then first things first. Lets get you some new clothes."

"We went over this Hook. No skirts."

"No lass. You need ship clothes. I promise to cover up that luscious body as much as I can from prying eyes." He winked, and to his surprise she actually smiled back.

They were back to normal. Thank god, she thought before registering the comment and frowning.

"How much money do we have?"

"You mean do I have." He waggled an eyebrow. "None actually. You ate away the last of it."

"How the hell are we going to go shopping, and don't you dare say pirate." He chocked back the automatic response.

"Alright. If I can't steal, then you'll just have to sleep with some people." He shrugged and popped a raspberry into his mouth.

"What! What the hell is wrong with you?" Her arm was ready to punch him, when he began to laughter.

"I'm joking love. You should have seen your face…priceless." Lifting up his hand he wiggled his fingers. "Why do you think we wear so many of these…just for looks?"

"Your selling your jewelry?"

"I have more back on the ship." Setting down his spoon, he turned to her. "What's wrong Swan?"

"I just…I don't have anything." Her hand instinctively went to the only possession besides the clothes on her back she owned, and in actuality the key chain was worth nothing. Plus Rumple most likely wouldn't allow it to be sold. The sword on her side, and the daggers were all Hooks.

"I'm sure you can make it up to me…" Tapping her chin and giving he gave her a seductive glance, "someway."

"Do me a favor Hook, shut up."

"As you wish Princess."

"And for the love of god, stop calling me that!"

"As you wish your highness."


The selling went rather smoothly. Killian had acquired a fine sum from his necklace and rings. It didn't surprise her that he was such a good bargainer. From his smooth voice to his charismatic smile the merchants were practically begging for him to take their money.

"Are you sure Killian?"

"Lass. I've told you. I have more on the ship, anyway we don't know how long were going to be on the road and gold is good in any world. Its when you get to a place with funny paper money like yours, that's when things get useless." She nodded remembering her wallet.

"I think this is the place." He spotted a small sign, that read 'The trading post', "After you malady."

The shop was lit fully by oil lamps. Small shelves ran all around its base, filled with all sorts of items. From boots to pistols and small jars filled with different types of liquids marked with strange symbols. A set of stairs leading up in the back was blocked off by a weathered red rope.

Making her way through she spotted a wooden counter, battered and scuffed. A small brass bell sat on top between calendars and quills. An old man perched behind it, on a tall stool. His eyes were closed, one elbow leaning against the register. Multiple tape measures adorned his neck, each different colors and lengths. The clothing on his back resembled nothing from this town, he almost looked like Mr. Monopoly from her world. Long jacket, white pressed shirt, and black slacks. A small monocle dangled from his pocket. His hair was mostly gone, balding around the top and creating a white crown.

Emma coughed, hoping to get the mans attention. As if an electric jolt ran through him he jumped and shouted, "Welcome to the trading Post-" When he spotted her he stopped. She was expecting some sort of nasty remark, but he just stared bug eyed.

"Where here to get the lass some clothes."

"Ahh yes! Of course! Your taller than I assumed. Shouldn't matter though, left the hems extended." He jumped down from the stool. He was rather short, only half of Emma's size. Haphazardly he began to shuffle through boxes littering the area behind the counter.

"Now where did I put that…" pulling out a small file with a "Ah ha!" before assessing an oversized shelving unit crammed with brown packages.

"Um…sir?" Emma didn't know what to think of the old man, "I didn't order anything."

"Of course you didn't dear. But I have your arrangements here." He never looked up, just continued to collect parcel after parcel.

"Woah, I think you have the wrong girl." Emma tried to set the old man straight, but he merely shook his head chuckling like it was some joke.

"No no. I was told a Blonde maiden, and her fellow…" He leaned to the side taking in Killian. "Pirate would be coming in." He checked his black date book, "Yep. Although your late…ahhh well."

Hooks hand was resting on the sword, his eyes darting between the old man, the parcels, and the door. "And who pre-tell would know we were coming?"

"Didn't give a name." without even glancing up at the pirate he persisted, "No need for weapons in here buccaneer." Changing glances to Emma he continued, "Was told you would be needing clothing lass, didn't want you to stick out like a swore thumb. Although, what he requested won't stop that. If you would like to change," He pointed to a small changing station, "You may."

They were at a lost for words. Shrugging her shoulders she gave into the mans smile, taking the bundles marked clothing from the counter and unwrapping them. It must have been John. He knew she would accept his offer. The jacket was much like Killian's except gold and black, held together at the waist by a thick leather belt. A sword grip already in place.

"Now that's your oil skin…keep the water rolling off. Made by the finest whale blubber in all of the lands." The little man puffed his chest up in pride when she lifted it into the air. Gathering the pants and shirt she excused herself into the changing room. They fit perfectly, the boots a bit uncomfortable but anything would be better than the ones she had on before. After pulling on the jacket, she came out.

"Perfect." The old man declared, running around her and tying little pouches and other oddities here and there. "Now…these." He pointed to the few remaining parcels, eyeing them in a interesting manner. "Where what he left for you."

He obviously had no idea himself what they could be, and although the old man had been kind to them she wasn't going to open them.

Killian had been roaming the shop while she changed, picking up different oddities and placing them on the counter with a large leather bag. When he saw her, a smile rose to his lips.

"My my Miss. Swan. I told you…" He gave her a once over, "one hell of a pirate."

Once they had paid for the extra wares, and safely hid the packages they left. It was time to catch up to John.

"You picked your friends wisely Emma…" The compliment sounded a bit strained, but she didn't call him out on it.

"What do you thinks in the other parcels?"

"Probably jewels to win your heart." She rolled her eyes dropping the subject.

"Alright…the pearl." They walked the decks, and Hook describe each type of ship to her along the way. Explaining their strengths and weaknesses, the types of cannons, and even the different crew names. She would never remember it all, but she listened. If she needed to prove herself, she had better try.

"The ships cook is actually one of the most important people, and not just because they keep you hale and hearty. They are also the doctors."

"What?"

"Yep."

"You mean they perform surgery? With what, a clever?"

"Just Emma!" A voice shouted from the nearby decks cutting their conversation short. Looking up she saw John waving in her direction. "All ready little lady? You look bloody marvelous." He shouted the compliment causing a quick blush to rise to her cheeks as other sailors turned to see.

Hook merely grunted before stalking off towards the ship.

The Brigantine was a beauty, Killian had said this type was one of the most commonly used ships, since it had a good size, speed and maneuverability. She smiled as she boarded, and instantly John was there to give her the tour.

The ship it's self was made out of a light cedar or oak. It had a raised deck near the bow called the forecastle, and higher deck near the stern called the stern castle. Easy enough Emma thought, as she walked through.

The helm at the highest point was called the quarterdeck. Under the top deck were the doors to the captains quarters, beautiful stain glass casting bright shades on the floor. Next to that was another door, John explained it was the officer's quarters, his room.

The gun deck was just beneath the ship's main deck, and as they walked down she counted the cannons. Fourteen in all, ammunition piled around them. Gunpowder barrels were stored here, as well and shooting Killian a look reminded them of no fire. She giggled when Hook gave the most vicious growl. Mumbling under his breath.

The deck below that was were the ship's galley, and mess hall was. The water supply and meats were in large barrels in the back. When they reached the quarters, she frowned. They were cramped and dirty, the smell of bilge water was foul, and she was sure rats were on board, but she forced a smile when shown their hammocks.

They didn't walk the final floor, the brig wasn't a place to be proud of John had whispered.

"I'm glad you came." As they were walking he had taken her arm into his. Hook simply followed quietly, not seeming impressed. Of course even to Emma this was nothing compared to the Jolly. Beautiful, but not as magical.

"Thanks for the tour. Just let us settle in, and then I'm assuming to the captain?" He smiled, and allowed them to get ready.

"He'll see you alone, in his Quarters. Good luck." With a quick kiss to the back of her hand he was gone.

Hook took the bottom bunk, clicking his tongue at it as she threw her bed roll up on the top. At least they were in a corner pushed to the side, it gave a separated feeling from the rest of the crew.

"He seemed…nice." The sarcasms was not lost to her, and she bite her tongue. "He acted as if you've never seen a ship in your life…"

"Killian…he was being polite."

"Of course…polite. That's what his eyes were doing…definitely not undressing you."

"Killian Jones! Stop it." Her hands were on her hips, and for a second she could almost hear Mary Margaret's voice.

He pulled off the duffle and dropped it in his cot.

"The Jolly's better Hook." She didn't look at him when she gave the compliment, fixing her hair up into a bun. "Now stop getting ship envy."

"It's not the ship love." He snapped before skulking off.

What was wrong with him. Seriously. Rolling her eyes, she followed.


Billy Bones, or Captain Billy Bones was a good man. Hook couldn't help but feel at ease around him, unlike the rest of the crew. When they had walked up, he couldn't help but analyze everyone. Even for pirates they looked like a shady bunch.

Sitting in the Captains Quarters told him much. From Billy Bones exotic looking treasure to the massive amount of literature. This man clearly respected the things he plundered, each displayed with pride.

"Now me lass…Mr. Silver, tells me ye can help us?" Billy sat in his crisp blue captains coat, polished boots, and tri-corner hat. His hair was calmer than the last they had seen him, and the look in his eye held a childlike amusement.

"I hope so Captain." She fidgeted, but her gaze determined. "I need to get to Treasure Island."

The Captain's eyes widened for a moment, as if he was hearing this for the first time. "Treasure Island. That is the ultimate plan. Although how you know about it is beyond my wildest imagination." He held a hand up to stop her explanation. "I know about your abilities Mrs. Swan. Magic is something we take very seriously around these parts. I best not hear you telling the rest of the crew." Standing up he walked to the window. "I trust these men with me life, but not with power or riches dangled before them."

"Do they know where you plan to head sir?" It was hook asking the questions now.

"No." He seemed to be lost in thought, his answer a bit slow.

"Then we handle that when the time comes. In the meantime. How long do we have?"

"That's the problem lad. The last person to navigate to that wretched Island was old Captain Flint himself…but the lass." He turned back to Emma. "She can see it."

"Wait a minute…so we just roam around till Emma spots something fishy?" Hook didn't like that, not at all. That could mean weeks, months, even years.

He merely smiled, before walking back to the desk and pulling out an old book. It looked like a ledger, filled with numbers and words.

Killian caught her glance his way, edging him on. The captain beat him to any questions. "This was old Flints…dates times, amounts, records, all here." He proudly showed them a crudely drawn sea chart, "I deciphered it. The area I marked it down to is small enough."

"Why haven't you just gone there then?" There was something he wasn't telling them. If it was this easy he should have just been there already.

"Its not protected by a shield, it's a sort of crack in the world. A tunnel."

"A rift."

"Aye if that's what you magic casters call it. What we need the lass to do, is get us through."

"Wait what?" Killian's eyes went wide, and he stood up, "She can't do that! Keep a whole ship protected. Are you mad?"

But the Captain wasn't looking at him anymore, he was just staring at Emma, a smirk on his lips. "You can do it lass, can't you?"

"I can try." Hook cringed at her answer, she had no idea what he was requesting. This wasn't the Jolly Roger, his ship could go through portals no problem, it was built from enchanted wood. He looked down at the floorboards, this would just rip to shreds.

"Emma…its not like you just walk through to another world, you move there, everything comes apart, one piece at a time. Then thrown into the rift. If you don't have a ship that can handle it, well love it'll kill everyone."

"A chance we are all willing to take." The voice was from the doorway, John Silver. Hook almost groaned, of course they would use him. Emma was fond of the man, and if anyone could make her agree it was him. He just couldn't get the feeling something was utterly off about this whole damn thing.

"So what do ye say lass?"

Emma's blonde head bobbed in the corner of Hooks eye, "Deal."

"Emma...lets just talk about this."

John pushed past Hook, "A deal is a deal Mr.?"

"Jones."

"Wait..." Emma was looking between the two men, her eyes finally landing on Killian. "I think I can do it." She was fumbling with that damn necklace again, "Trust Killian…" That was rich coming from her, but it was enough to deflate him.

"Can you literally tell me everything about this ship John?" She was now looking to Silver.

"Of course little lady." Slipping her arm into his they left, the door clicking behind them. He had lost...again. And to fight it, would be to fight against Emma. If she thought she could do it, then who was he to stop her.

"Mr. Jones."

"Captain?"

"Now that your on me ship, your under me orders. Do ye object?"

"No Captain, of course not." He flourished a bow.

"You worried about the girl?"

"Yes sir."

The man pondered this for a moment, "If it proves to difficult we'll pull back. In the meantime, lets see what she's capable of. Agreed?"

"I don't have much choice do I sir. I know the way these things work."

"I thought as much. Your to much a sailor to be a mere cabin boy, or scrubbing decks. To the helm with ye." He tossed him a map. "Officer of Navigation."

"Aye Captain. Just one question. If allowed sir"

"The floor is yours."

"How did you get there before?"

"Flint was a man of many skills, just like your young lass."

With a nod and the map tucked under his arm, he walked out. So Flint had been a mage, something told him that would make finding the portal much more difficult.

Emma was standing at the far end, John pointing out to different ropes, and boards. For a heated moment he almost marched between them, but he now had a job to do.

She had no idea what she had agreed them too, practically a suicide mission. But he needed to pick his battles. If she said she could do it, who was he to question her. Blind faith...that was a new concept.

She glanced back at him a pleading look in her eyes. Curtly nodding back, she smiled in gratification. Bloody hell Swan.

"All hands on deck!" Came the roar of the Captain now behind him, "Set sail!" He placed a hand on Killians shoulder, "Mr. Jones, to the helm lad."


Alrighty guys. I know this didn't go very long, well longer than most...but ya know. Had to end it somewhere. Hope you liked it, but now the real fun begins. :3 What will happen! Will they survive! OH MY OH MY. :3 Next time on "The road least Traveled"