A/N: Hello Lovely Readers! Yes, another chapter is ready! Sorry for so long of a wait on the last one. I hope you enjoy this story. I appreciate all of you who took the time to read this and have followed along. I'd love to hear what you think. Leave me some comments, a review, a note, suggestions, say hello if you like. Your notes totally make my day and let me know you want more of this story. There is more to come soon! Thank you!
Ch. 27
The morning sun came too soon. He woke up to find her nestled in his arms and snoozing softly. Her hair was shimmering in the morning sun. He could hear the crew roaming about above deck. After the events that occurred over the past few days he felt relieved to wake up on his ship. It gave him some semblance of control in the uncontrolled world they lived in.
He leaned over and kissed her forehead hoping to rouse her. They'd promised to be back to the palace early. He didn't want to disappoint her parents. They still didn't know that they'd found a solution and he wanted to provide them with relief as well. They'd had quite a scare when their daughter was in danger of being killed by Regina. The thought spiked his own fear. He didn't even want to think about what could have happened. His beautiful lady was quite powerful and miraculous.
He gently nudged her shoulder rocking her softly.
"Love, its morning." He whispered in her ear.
"No, need more sleep." She said.
"We've promised your parents to be there for breakfast. I'm still trying to make a good impression."
She laughed softly and sat up to face him. She placed her hand on his cheek and smiled.
"You're perfect Darling. I can tell they like you."
"Got you up though didn't I?" he said grinning.
She swatted him on the chest lightly.
"Fine, I'm up. "she pouted.
He pulled her into his arms matching the length of his body against hers from behind. She nestled her back into his chest and felt just how awake he was.
"Do we have some time or do we need to leave right away?" she asked as she slid her hand down his thigh. He groaned when she reached for him.
"Love, there's always time for that." He whispered against her neck finding just the right spot to drive her wild.
When they finally left the bed she was sated and a little sore from all the activity but happy. She wanted to feel safe just a little while longer. Everything in their path was going to be dangerous. She wasn't looking forward to returning home to the castle, seeing Neal, or facing the Dark One.
Killian dressed quickly. He put his sword in its sheath and turned to see how Emma was fairing. She was sitting in her under dress brushing through her long silky strands. He couldn't help but watch her in awe.
"Help me with my gown Darling?" she asked.
"Of course Love; although it is my preference to help you out of them." he said.
She looked up at him smiling. "I'd prefer that too."
The light green gown she had on brought out the gold and green flecks of color in her eyes.
"Love, you look beautiful." He said.
She leaned up and kissed him on his cheek.
"Thank you Darling. You look rather dashing today. I must tell you that the black velvet vest is my favorite." She said.
He brushed his hands over the front to smooth it out.
"I'll remember that Love." he said grinning.
He picked up her tiara and placed it on her head. She was so regal and proper when she wore it.
"Ready?" she asked.
"I'd like to address the crew before we take leave." He said.
She nodded.
He extended his arm and she took it. He guided them up the stairs to the deck.
"Capt'n on Deck!" called Smee.
"Be at the ready mates. Don't leave the ship. We will likely leave port today." He said.
Emma smiled to the crew. All eyes were on her and Killian noticed. She noticed the glare he gave the crew and their eyes dropped to the deck. She bit back the comment on her lips.
"Aye Aye Capt'n." said Smee.
"Ready Love." he said.
Emma held him tight and focused on the kitchen. She noted that the uneasy feeling did not occur in that room so it seemed the best place to focus arrival.
"Hold on Darling." She said.
She felt his grip tighten. She closed her eyes and when she opened them they were standing in the castle kitchen.
A small shriek came from the cook that turned around to see them standing there suddenly out of thin air.
"So sorry, so sorry." She said.
Killian laughed.
"Shall we go?" he asked.
"Let's go outside. I want to ward the castle before we go in. I'd rather meet my parents after I know it's safe for them to speak freely." she said.
This time they walked carefully out to the garden where she could see the best view of the castle. Killian wrapped his arms around her from behind. She felt her magic prickling and her heart was thrumming. She only had to dip into a memory from moments ago when he was holding her in her arms feeling sated to pull on a pool of happiness.
"Protitious Realius" she said.
She felt the depth of the spell come over her and she pushed it towards the castle. She could feel it taking hold and creeping over the walls into the floors and down through the cracks. It was much bigger structure than the Jolly Roger. Killian held her tight. She felt the power increase as his warmth enveloped her. The ward finally snapped into place and she stumbled at the force. He held her firmly in his arms.
"Thank you Darling." She said.
She turned around and kissed him softly.
"Of course Love. I was much better prepared after seeing you do this last evening." he said.
"Ready for breakfast with my parents?" she asked.
"As much as I ever will be ready Love." he said smiling.
"I guess this is a first for you." She said.
They walked arm and arm back towards the kitchen. This time the kitchen was aware of their presence when they walked through but that didn't stop Emma from muttering apologies again to the poor woman who looked three sheets of white after they appeared.
Her parents were seated at the table when she walked in. Her mother breathed a sigh of relief as their eyes met.
"Good Morning Emma, Killian." Said Snow nodding towards them.
Emma walked over and kissed her mother on the cheek. Before she could retreat Snow stood and grabbed her into a hug. She didn't seem to want to let her go. Emma held on with the same fervor.
"I promised I would come back." Whispered Emma.
She pulled back to see her mother smiling.
"I know Honey, it's just, I'm happy to see your face." She said.
She leaned over and kissed her father on top of his head. His smile seemed to reach his eyes. She looked over to see Killian waiting behind her chair. She walked over and he pulled it out for her and pushed her into the table.
He took the seat next to her. She grabbed his hand and smiled sweetly.
"Thank you Darling." She said.
"Good morning Highnesses." Said Killian.
"Glad you can join us Killian." Said Snow.
Charming nodded towards him.
"Did your research yield any results?" asked Charming.
"Actually it did." Said Emma smiling.
"Really? I'm so glad to hear it." said Snow.
"Your daughter is a marvel. Not only did she place wards on the ship but she's already taken care of the castle as well." Said Killian.
She looked to see him beaming with pride on her behalf.
"You did?" asked Snow.
"Yes, we stopped shortly before coming in and I set up the wards. I'm afraid I may have scared the kitchen staff though when we popped in." Said Emma.
Snow laughed.
"I'm so happy you were able to find a way to protect us." Said Snow.
"Speaking of protection, I almost forgot." Said Emma.
She pushed away from the table and walked over towards her parents. She reached into her pocket and pulled out the coral she'd enchanted. She'd run a ribbon through each piece. She took one and placed it around each of her parent's necks.
"This is lovely Emma." Said Snow.
She watched her mother fingering the coral and examining it. Emma returned to her chair and smiled.
"The coral has been enchanted. Should anyone try to curse you it will repel back on the person who tries to curse you." Said Emma.
Killian smiled as he watched her parents mouths fall open.
"You made this?" asked Charming.
"Yes, when we were on the island. Killian helped me find what I needed. We'd just finished the spell before Regina showed up. I wanted to ensure that what happened to me never happened to the people I love." she said.
Snow had a tear falling down her cheek.
"Thank you Emma." Said Snow.
"Of course Mother. It gives me great peace of mind to know you are safe." Said Emma.
"Speaking of the Evil Queen, where is Regina this morning?" asked Killian.
"She promised she would come down but she has been giving everyone a difficult time when she's approached." Said Snow wistfully.
Emma grumbled and continued to cut into her breakfast. It had been a long time since she'd had the delicious golden waffles that the castle made. The scent was heavenly and it brought her back to a time when she was a carefree little girl. She didn't want to think about Regina and spoil what little quiet time she'd have with her parents.
They had a pleasant breakfast but her thoughts kept drifting back to Regina and her fear that she was up to something.
"Emma, did you hear me?" asked Snow.
"What? I'm sorry. " said Emma.
"Is everything alright Love?" asked Killian.
"Yes, I was just curious about Regina. I can't say I'm not worried about her." Said Emma.
"Perhaps you are right to worry." Said Killian.
"Something doesn't feel right to me." said Emma.
She looked at Killian and he saw the concern on her face. He squeezed her hand gently.
"Would you like me to look in on her?" he asked.
"Perhaps I should." She said.
"Emma, I can speak to her. I know she makes you feel uneasy." Said Snow.
"No, I think it should be me. She can't harm me any longer. I can't run in fear of her any longer." Said Emma.
"I would certainly go with you Love." he said.
She pushed her chair out and stood.
"I know you would Darling. Would you mind waiting for me? I promise to call if I need you." she said.
She had a determined look on her face and she seemed to be quite vexed. As much as he'd like to see how she handled the situation he understood her need to go alone.
"If you're certain you don't need me I'll wait here with your parents." He said.
"I just think it might be easier for her to speak to me. We don't know what I'll be walking into and based on her state on the island I can only imagine." Said Emma.
"Honey, if there is a problem, please call for the guard. We will be there immediately." Said Charming.
"Be careful Love." said Killian.
She kissed him softly on his forehead letting her lips linger a bit before she closed her eyes and imagined the hallway in front of Regina's room. She opened her eyes smiling when she looked upon her door and touched her lips still tingling from the kiss. It amazed her how his touch magnified her magic. She really was starting to like this new mode of travel. She knocked softly on the door.
"GO AWAY! I said I didn't want anything from you." shouted Regina.
"It's Emma." She said.
She received no response. She knocked again and nothing. She could see this was going nowhere. She closed her eyes, gripped the doorknob and pressed the door to unlock. She walked into the room.
"How dare you enter my room!" shouted Regina.
Emma was surprised to see the sight in front of her. Regina was huddled up in her bed, blankets wrapped around her, hair wild, and gritting her teeth at her like a rabid dog.
"I'm sorry but I was worried for you." She said in a small voice. She wasn't sure why this woman's presence put her in that place but she didn't like it.
Regina rolled her eyes.
"I don't wish to see you or anyone. Just leave me die in peace." She said.
Regina tried to roll further into her covers and Emma noticed her wincing.
"Are you in much pain?" she asked.
"What's it to you? It's your fault I'm like this." She hissed.
Emma felt sorry for her. She still blamed her for taking something that was never hers to begin with. She would die a bitter old woman if she didn't try to change her ways. She reached into her pocket to find one of the healing disks that Nairobi taught her to make. She picked up a piece of ribbon from the dresser, looped it through the disk, and tied the top. She approached Regina with caution.
"Don't come near me. What do you want? What are you doing?" asked Regina.
"Just hold still." Said Emma.
She placed the necklace over her head and straightened it around her neck. She saw Regina relax immediately and slump into her pillows.
"Why, why are you helping me?"asked Regina.
"I don't wish you harm and I don't want to see you in pain. I've only had my powers for a short time but I can see the way magic can seduce someone. I have the power to heal." Said Emma.
"Yes, magic can be quite seductive. "she said through gritted teeth.
"You can have a life here. You don't have to stay in this room. You are not a prisoner." Said Emma.
"I feel like a prisoner. I'm trapped in this body. I have nothing to call my own. I don't want anything from you or your family. Just leave me alone." Grumbled Regina.
Emma pulled the blankets off of her.
"Get up; get up out of the bed." She said.
"How dare you! I will not." Said Regina.
"If you stay here in this bed you will have nothing. You have a chance to make something good of your life. You're not dead." Said Emma.
"Well, I might as well be." Said Regina.
"I'm not going to let you feel sorry for yourself. Let's get you dressed. If you would prefer to go down in your night dress that's fine with me but if you don't move you certainly will." She said as she tapped her foot.
Regina looked at her with outrage grumbling curses under her breath.
Emma bit her lip and crossed her arms in front of her. Regina huffed and slid her legs over the side of the bed.
Emma watched as she stood with a bit of hesitation and stretched her muscles.
"Are you just going to stand there or are you going to help me? I can't dress myself!" Snapped Regina.
"If you'd allow them to come in and help you this wouldn't be a problem." Said Emma through gritted teeth.
Emma picked a dress from the closet and brought it out to show her. It was a deep plum gown with black lace trim.
"It's fine, no one cares what I look like anyway." Said Regina.
Emma helped her into the gown. She pressed her lips tight and bit back her words.
"My mother will be happy to see you join them." Said Emma.
Regina grit her teeth.
Emma waved her hand over Regina and her hair was combed back neatly.
"That should do." Said Emma.
Regina rolled her eyes. Emma touched the older woman's shoulder and closed her eyes. They appeared in the dining hall seconds later in front of her loved ones. She opened her eyes to see Killian's smile. She felt her body relax just seeing him. Charming got up from his chair to assist Regina to a seat. Regina grumbled but she accepted his help.
Killian assisted Emma into her seat as well giving her a small squeeze on her shoulder.
"Good Morning Regina. You're looking well." Said Snow.
Regina rolled her eyes.
Emma looked at her mother and smiled.
"What was so important that you felt you should invade my room and drag me down here?" asked Regina.
"Regina we wanted to know how you came to find out that Emma returned to the Enchanted Forest?" asked Charming.
"How do you think?" said Regina snickering.
"I suspect that you were informed by someone but precisely how they came about the information has eluded us." Said Killian.
"Pirate, I don't believe I told you that you can address me." said Regina.
Killian shifted in his seat and Emma took his hand.
"You'll show some respect at my table. He's an honored guest in our home and he has just as much right to address you as any of us. Killian's life was affected by your evil plan just as much as Emma's. Not to mention that those men could have killed us in that ambush and your tortured our friends August and Ruby." Said Charming.
Emma smiled at her father.
Regina crossed her arms.
"Very well, The Dark One informed me. Apparently he's been eavesdropping on this castle for years." Said Regina.
Snow gasped.
"Not anymore." Said Emma grinning.
"You've warded the castle? That's quite an advanced spell for a fledgling. You must be stronger than I thought." said Regina.
Emma held her head up with pride.
"I took care of it this morning. I could sense his prying eyes in certain areas of the castle." She said.
"Sense him? You can sense the presence of dark magic?" said Regina.
"Yes, not only dark magic, any magic. I can feel it." She said.
"Clearly I underestimated the power within you, child. It's greater than I imagined. Perhaps you will stand a chance against him after all." Said Regina.
She picked up a spoon and cracked the egg in front of her with a grin on her face.
"You really think so?" said Emma.
"At this point I believe anything is possible. I've never met a bearer of such strong light magic." Said Regina.
Killian gripped her hand tight. He felt relieved when he heard Regina say that. He wanted desperately for Emma to be able to get her son and come out of this unscathed.
"Regina, you mentioned that he wants me dead. Do you think he means to come after me?" asked Emma.
"I don't know. He wants the boy. If he feels that you are threatening to take him he will not stand idly by while you do that. He expected me to kill you but here we are now. One big happy family." Said Regina.
"Regina." Said Snow.
Snow was glaring at Regina's biting words. She'd seen her mother angry only a few times in her life. Anger wasn't an emotion that she'd associated with her so when she'd seen it she knew she meant business.
"Regina look at me! She's our daughter and the boy is our grandson. Do you honestly believe that we would be happy about him being stuck for his life with the Dark One and not do anything about it?"said Snow.
"What I'm just telling it like it is. As far as he's concerned I'm a dead woman. I've nothing to offer him. She's our only hope against that kind of darkness." Said Regina pointing at Emma.
Emma stood from the table and walked towards the window. Killian excused himself. He looked around the table at the others. Regina was scowling, Snow looked worried and Charming nodded as he left them.
He walked up behind her and laid a hand on her shoulder. She reached up and laid her own hand on top of his.
"Are you alright Love?" he asked.
"That woman, she's impossible. I want to feel sorry for her but I can't. I'm so angry. This is all because of her and she continues to poke at us. I practically had to drag her down here. I threatened to bring her down in her night dress if she didn't get out of bed and put on something presentable." Said Emma.
Killian couldn't see her face but he knew she was upset. He couldn't help but smile at her tenacity.
"You've every right to be angry." He said.
"The way she talked to you. I'm so sorry about that. She was out of line. I'm not so forgiving as my mother. I want to be but it's so hard knowing what she's done to me and to you. Father was right, she did this to you as well. If she'd only stayed out of our lives none of this would have happened." She said.
"I won't hold a grudge against her. I have you now and I will cherish you always. Don't let her get to you. How can I help?"he asked.
"Just being here with me is what I need. It means so much that I know you will stand by me no matter what and your words of encouragement bring me great strength." She said.
"That's a given Love. If that is the least of what I can do I shall do it often." he said.
"The more she talks about the strength of his magic, the less I want to involve my parents. I fear I would just be putting them in danger." She said.
"I know they want to help but I agree with you. It may be best if they remain here at the castle with Regina. She may think The Dark One is done with her but I believe that man is capable of anything. Now that you've cut off his source of information he will be looking for other ways." Said Killian.
She turned to face him placing her hands on his chest.
"Killian, you're right. We'll need to get my father alone and make him understand. I don't want Regina to know our plan and I think my mother can keep her distracted." Said Emma.
He nodded. She started forward and he placed his hand on the small of her back helping her push forward. He sensed her hesitation but she was strong and she could do this.
"Father, Killian and I would like a word with you." Said Emma.
She looked to her mother and gave her a knowing glance. She nodded in return.
"Of Course." Said Charming.
Her father extended his arm to her and she took it smiling. Killian flanked her other side and walked along the room towards his den.
They each took seats around the small round carved wooden table. Emma tested her senses and it was clean. The wards she placed were holding tight and she was able to relax.
"What is it Honey?" he asked.
"Father, Killian and I need to go on this mission alone. I can't risk having you and mother with me." said Emma.
"But Honey, we should be there with you. We want to be there with you. "said Charming.
She grabbed his hands in her own and looked into his soft blue eyes. He held such sincerity in his gaze.
"I know you mean well but The Dark One is extremely powerful. If what Regina says is true he will stop at nothing and neither you nor mother would be safe. I can't let anything happen to you." She said.
Her father looked at Killian. Emma could feel the tears pricking her eyes. She wanted to remain composed in front of her father. She needed him to feel that she was confident.
"Highness, I will be with her every step of the way. I will not let her go into this alone." Said Killian.
"I believe you. I suppose she couldn't convince you to stay behind." He said smiling.
"I would never allow her to do this alone. She's been through so much already." Said Killian.
"Killian makes me stronger Father. When he is with me my magic intensifies." Said Emma.
"I can see that he supports you. Thank you for treating my daughter with the respect and kindness she deserves." Said Charming.
"I can assure you Highness, it's my pleasure. She is the light in my life, without her I would be lost." He said.
Emma smiled at him sweetly. She looked to her father and he had tears in the corner of his eyes.
"Emma, please tell me you'll be safe, you won't do anything foolish." Said Charming.
"I promise." She said.
"Do you have a plan?" asked Charming.
"We haven't discussed it yet. I am worried about Regina. Do you think that you and Mother can keep an eye on her?" asked Emma.
"Of course Honey. That's the least we can do." Said Charming.
"She was in an awful state in her room when I checked on her. She was in pain and barely able to get out of bed. I provided her with a healing stone. I think that made the pain ease for her. I'm also not so sure that The Dark One won't seek her out in this weakened state. She's likely to accept any deal he would throw at her to gain back her youth, her magic or both." Said Emma.
"I don't doubt that for a minute. Mother and I will be on top of things. We'll set guards outside of her door as well." Said Charming.
"That's a good idea Highness." Said Killian.
"I better get back in there. I don't know how long your Mother can keep her composure. She was seething last night after you left. Regina refused to unlock the door and wouldn't see anyone. She was acting awful." said Charming.
"Just as she was when I went up this morning. Wait Father, are you saying that she isn't alright with Regina being here?" asked Emma.
"Emma, that woman was the source of all of the pain in your life, not to mention the trouble she caused us before you were born. It's not easy to embrace a woman who's tried to kill you for the better part of your life and tortured your child. She's an exemplary source of self control if I've ever seen it but there will come a day when I fear she will snap. No one can maintain composure like that forever." Said Charming smiling.
"That makes me feel better. I was afraid it was just Me." said Emma.
"I hate to shatter that image of perfection you may have of your mother." Said Charming.
"No, it just makes me realize just how strong she truly is. If she feels even one tenth of the disdain I feel and she can maintain that level of composure she should be sainted." Said Emma.
"Don't leave us too long. We've missed having you with us Honey. I've really missed you." He said.
He leaned over and kissed the top of her head.
"Thank you." She looked up at her father as he walked through the door. She felt a sadness when he left because all she could think was those two words meant so much more than just for what happened in that moment. She loved her father so much and she would give anything to be that little girl trailing behind him pulling his tails and giggling.
"Love, I think you've made the right choice." He noticed she'd been far away in that moment. She turned to look at him and he saw that glimmer of sadness in her eyes.
"I know and I'm grateful that you will be there with me. I'm scared." She said.
"I know Love but we will get through this. Let's get out there, say our goodbyes and get back to the ship so we can discuss the plan. I agree that the sooner we are out of that woman's presence the better. I really don't like her." He said grinning.
Emma laughed and leaned over to kiss him softly.
"My sentiments exactly." She said.
They walked back out into the dining hall. Her parents were deep in discussion with Regina when they arrived. Regina was scowling and her mother had her lips pulled tight in a line. She suspected that Regina mentioned some other bit of information that managed to test her mother's resolve.
"Emma Honey, your father tells me that you will be leaving us to go back to the ship. I hate to see you go." Said Snow.
She saw the sad look in her mother's eyes and she got an idea.
"Would you like to go back to the ship with us?" asked Emma.
Emma squeezed Killian's hand when she asked. She knew she didn't ask him first but she thought it would help to talk to her mother. She also wanted to get her mother away from Regina before she actually did lose her resolve.
"Are you sure?"asked Snow hesitantly.
"Aye, Highness. Please come aboard the ship with us." Said Killian.
"I would love to." She said smiling.
Her father looked at her and smiled.
"Regina, would you like me to take you back to your room before I leave?" asked Emma.
"Please, I think I've had enough family bonding for one day." Said Regina.
Emma walked over and laid her hand on Regina's shoulder. She gave a quick wink at Killian before she shimmered out.
Regina walked over and eased into the chair close to the window.
"Thank you for the charm. It's done wonders to not feel the aches and pains." Said Regina.
"You're welcome. I hope you'll come around. My parents really do want to make this work." Said Emma.
"I know. I just need some time to get used to this. It's not how I expected to live my life." Said Regina.
"Things will get better." Said Emma.
"I know you believe that. You are your mother's daughter after all." Said Regina.
"Yes, I'm quite proud of that." Said Emma.
She closed her eyes and left the room to get back to her family before she could let her get under her skin again. She could already feel the heat rising. That woman would test her and she truly did admire how strong her mother is in that moment.
"Everything alright Love? You seem vexed." Said her sweet adoring pirate.
She nodded.
"Ready to go Mom?" asked Emma.
"I can't wait! I've never been on a pirate ship before." said Snow.
Emma grabbed hold of Killian's hand and her mother's.
"Be back soon." She said before they shimmered out of the room.
They shimmered on the deck of the Jolly. The crew seemed unphased by their sudden appearance.
"Capt'n on deck!" called Smee.
"Good Day Smee. This is the Queen, you shall treat her as such." Said Killian.
"Sorry Milady." Said Smee bowing profusely in front of her.
"No, please Captain, it's alright." Said Snow.
"Back to work Smee." Said Killian.
"Nice meeting you Mr. Smee." Said Snow.
Emma laughed.
Killian extended his arms to each of them. Emma locked arms with his hooked arm and Snow took the other. He escorted them below to the Captain's Quarters.
"This is where you'll live?" asked Snow as she looked around the room in wonder.
"Yes, I like it very much." Said Emma smiling.
"Love, How about I give you and your mother a moment. I'm going to check in with the crew." He said.
"Thank you Darling." She said.
He kissed her softly on her cheek and smiled as he walked back out through the door. When the door closed she looked to her mother and she was smiling with her gloved hands clasped in front of her.
"Emma, It's so nice to see you so happy. Who would have ever thought your true love was a Pirate Captain." Said Snow.
"Mom, he wasn't always a pirate. He was a naval Lieutenant who served under his brother Liam who was Captain of this ship." Said Emma.
"Perhaps if we'd have met this young naval Lieutenant at one of the balls we would have had quite a different life." Said Snow.
"Mom, Killian and I have both agreed that we can't think about the past. If we met sooner I wouldn't have Henry and he is the best thing that could have come from an unfortunate situation." Said Emma.
Snow hugged her daughter tight.
"I'm so glad that you can forgive us for this. I feel so sad that it came to this. We never wanted that life for you. We shouldn't have underestimated Regina." Said Snow.
Emma hugged her tight. "I'm stronger for all that I've been through and seen. Always remember that."
"Why did you ask me here? Surely it's not because I'm a strategist." asked Snow.
"Indulge your daughter if you would. I wanted to show my mother where I'll be living. I didn't want you to worry for me when I wasn't in the castle. I saw your face when I told you that we were returning to the ship last night." Said Emma.
"Ah, well you were right. I do feel better. It's so cozy here." She said as she looked around the room.
"It is and honestly it really is perfect. I love it here. I fell so free and Killian promises to take me wherever I wish to go. He is also eager to meet Henry. We hope that when he is on holiday from school he will spend time with us on the ship. I was also hoping he could spend some time with you." Said Emma.
"Emma we would love to have Henry. We would love to have you all with us. We've missed you in our lives. I can't tell you how much we wanted you to come home. It almost felt like the minute you left a dark cloud fell on us. We just kept hoping Neal would allow us a visit or a visit from you to us. We never dreamed his rules would be so rigid for you." Said Snow.
"None of us did Mom. I tried but I wasn't strong enough. I desperately missed you both and eventually I became numb to my loneliness." Said Emma.
She felt the tears streaking down her face and she was certain they matched the mirror of her mother's face looking back at her. She hugged her tight.
"Emma, I'm so so sorry." Said Snow.
"Mom, it will NEVER happen again. I will not lose you from my life. I will never let those evil people hold me prisoner again." She said.
Snow looked up to her and smiled. She touched the side of her daughters face.
"You've grown up into such a lovely young woman. Your father and I are so proud of you. We love you so much. I'm sure you must know how much your father misses his little princess." Said Snow.
"I miss him too. I talk about you both often with Killian. He's quite impressed with my sword and archery skills." Said Emma.
"I'd say he's taken with you period Honey. I see the way he looks at you and it warms my heart." said Snow.
"He loves me and I love him. It was almost from the moment we met that we connected. I started to feel better immediately and my strength returned. It's as if I love him more every day if that is even possible." Said Emma.
She felt the blush creep up on her cheeks as her mother watched her talk about the man she loved.
"It's True Love. That's what happens when you meet the person you are meant to be with. I can say that I love your father a little more every day too, even after all of these years. He is my other half and without him I don't think I could get on." She said.
"I believe you. When Killian isn't with me I feel the loss. I can't even imagine not having him in my life now." Said Emma.
"You were right, I was nervous about you staying on the ship. I don't believe I am anymore. I think you are right where you were meant to be. You were always quite the free spirit growing up. We had to get extra guards to watch you, but you knew that." Said Snow.
"I know and I appreciated that you gave me some freedom. I know you didn't have to do that." She said giving her mother soft smile.
"Your father and I weren't exactly conventional parents or royals. The daughter of a bandit and a shepherd was bound to want to wander. It only makes sense that my non-traditional princess daughter 's true love is a pirate." Said Snow.
Emma hugged her tight. She could smell the florals that she remembered her mother wearing as a child. It was so distinctly her scent. She drank it in while she could. It had been awhile since she thought about that.
"Are you going to be alright with Regina living with you?" asked Emma.
"For as long as she wishes to remain with us. There may come a time when she wants to leave. I can arrange a place for her if she likes and she will be comfortable. I want to give her the opportunity to be part of a family first. If it's too much for her then I won't push it." Said Snow.
"I think you were right to offer. She has the personality of a rattlesnake but I can sense the loneliness in her. She was in a poor state when I sought her out earlier. Push her to move and circulate. She believes her life has amount to nothing. There has to be something she can do." Said Emma.
"I know you've never wished to rule the kingdom but for what it's worth, I think you would have made a wonderful Queen." Said Snow.
"Thank you. It means a lot to hear you say that." Said Emma.
"I think I've kept you long enough. I know you have a plan to strategize. Can you bring me home?" she asked.
"Alright, if you wish. Let me take you up to see Killian before we leave." Said Emma.
"Please. I would like to wish him well. "said Snow.
They walked back up the stairwell to the deck. Killian was speaking with Smee and the men were working furiously around him. He noticed them immediately and walked towards them. His gaze locked with hers and he smiled.
"Everything alright?" he asked.
"Killian, I'm going to take my mother home." She said.
"Already? My apologies for taking so long." He said.
"No Darling, Thank you for giving us the time to speak. We had some catching up to do." Said Emma smiling.
"Killian, may I speak with you?" asked Snow.
"Of course your majesty." He said.
"I'll leave you two." Said Emma smiling. She walked over to the side of the ship.
"Killian, I just wanted to thank you. I can't tell you how much it means to me to see my daughter so happy. Please watch over her and feel free to visit anytime. You are always welcome in our home." She said.
She stepped forward and hugged him.
His mind was swirling with the right thing to say. She's the Queen and Emma's mother.
"Thank you your majesty. I will happily do all that you ask and much more. I love her with all my heart and will protect her and care for her until my last dying breath." He said.
"That is all that a mother could hope for her daughter from someone she loves." Said Snow.
"Everything alright with you both?" asked Emma.
She gazed into Killian's eyes and they were sparkling under the warm afternoon sun. He smiled.
"You're mother was just giving me some direction." Said Killian.
"I hope nothing to strenuous." Said Emma.
"Of course not Love. All things I would have done regardless of her request. It's quite easy for me actually." He said.
Snow reached forward and touched his arm lightly.
"Emma, I'm ready to return. I'm sure your father is worrying a hole in the rug." Said Snow.
"I'm coming with you Love." he said.
"Are you sure?" she asked.
"Aye, I'm not letting you out of my sight while this is going on." He said.
"Alright. Ready?" she asked.
She gripped tight on both of their hands and wished them to be back in the dining hall. When they appeared her mother was right. Her father was pacing back and forth.
"You're back." Said Charming.
Snow ran forward, hugged him tight and kissed him. It warmed Emma's heart to see her parents so in love after all these years. She knew that it would be that way with Killian too. She squeezed his hand tight.
"Majesties, I must get my crew off to another port. They are getting restless. As long as the warrant is out on my first mate we can't freely roam in the realms." Said Killian.
"I'm sure we could protect him if you required." Said Charming.
"I'd rather not put you in danger, especially since the order could be in place by the Dark One." Said Killian.
"We are so happy to have you back in our lives Honey. We understand why you must go alone but I won't be happy about that. We'll be worried so please let us know as soon as you have news." Said Charming.
Emma walked forward and hugged both of them.
"I promise I will be back. I will send news once we have it." Said Emma.
"We know. We believe in you. Do what you need to but come back to us." Said Snow.
Emma watched her father walk to Killian. Her mother pulled her into her side and hugged her.
"Killian, Thank you for taking care of our daughter. Send for me if you need anything." Said Charming.
He extended his hand to him.
"Of course Your Majesty. It's my honor to care for her. Although I might tell you that thanks to your training she is quite the swordsman." Said Killian.
Emma felt a tear slip down her cheek into her grin.
"Yes, she is. Thank you for noticing." Said Charming.
"When we have time I'll tell you how she single handedly hushed an entire crew of pirates including the men they were fighting with two swipes of a sword." Said Killian.
Her parents eyes went wide and Emma laughed.
"Well, she managed to have several knights weeping while growing up. They never believed she would be able to take them but ended up unarmed and yielding." Said Charming.
Emma felt the blush creep up over her cheeks as they gushed over her. She walked over to them, leaned up and kissed her father on the cheek.
"I'll see you both soon." Said Emma.
"Please be careful Emma." Said Charming.
"I will." She said.
She gripped Killian's hand and they shimmered back to the ship.
"Capt'n on deck!" called Smee.
"Love, we didn't discuss this but I was thinking we should head back to Tortuga. " said Killian.
"A destination that would make things comfortable for the crew is where we should go." Said Emma.
"We can use the time on open water to discuss our plan." Said Killian.
Emma nodded.
"I'm going below." She said.
She leaned up and pressed a soft kiss on his cheek.
"Alright Love, I'll join you soon." Said Killian.
He looked at her with skepticism in his eyes. She seemed upset and he didn't want her to be alone. She seemed to skulk below deck. The sooner he got the ship moving the sooner he could join her.
"Smee!" he called.
"Aye Capt'n." said Smee.
"Set a course for Tortuga." Said Killian.
"We are set to go. We had the ship ready fer yer return." Said Smee.
"Good. I'm going below. Alert me if there is any trouble." Said Killian.
"Aye Aye Capt'n." said Smee.
His mind was on Emma the whole time. He quickly moved to go below deck to join her. He found her seated in the window seat tears streaming down her face. His heart dropped when he saw her.
"Love, what's wrong?" he said rushing to her side.
She jumped into his arms and pressed her face to his chest. He wrapped his arms around her.
"It was nice to be with them for awhile." She said.
"You'll see them soon. You can be with them in minutes if you like." Said Killian.
"That's true. I'm sorry I'm being silly." She said.
He lifted her chin so she was gazing into his eyes.
"You aren't being silly Love. You've been through an ordeal. This is the first quiet time you've had with your parents in years. If you weren't emotional I would be worried." He said.
Her eyes softened towards him. He wiped her tears away from her eyes and kissed the tip of her nose. She pressed her face back to his chest and embraced him tighter.
"Thank you Darling. Are you needed on deck?" she asked.
"No, the crew has things under control. I left them when I sensed you were upset." He said.
"Are they happy to return to Tortuga?" she asked.
"Aye, they are quite happy to return to a port where they can let off steam." He said.
"I could magically transport us to Tortuga." Said Emma.
"Give the men something to do Love. It's good for them. They'll go soft if you let them." Said Killian.
She took his hand and guided him to the window seat. He sat and pulled her into her usual position between his legs and wrapped his arms around her. She nestled back against his chest as they watched the take off from her childhood home in what she hoped wouldn't be the last time.
She told him she was sad to leave her parents but she still feared that she wouldn't make it back to them. At least now she knew that her family would be safe at home and that she had one good last moment with each of them.