Hi, my dear readers!

This time the next chapter comes earlier, thanks to my dear beta-reader. And a big thank you addressed to you for all the reviews. I'm happy that you loved the last chapter so much, and this one will begin rather romantically, too.

OoSnowdropsoO, the scene in the Never Sea was written basing on your fanart for this story. I couldn't resist and had to bring it into the story, because – really – this photo-fanart from Wendy and Hook in the shimmering sea is so sweet, I had to write a paragraph concerning it.

And now, off to Neverland, and 'brace yourself, lads', the easy, romantically beginning soon will change into something nasty and dark.

Nevertheless, have fun

Yours Lywhn / Starflight

Chapter 27 – A Plan in Motion

The sun was still behind the horizon, tipping the clouds in gold and pink. The first light barely illuminated the woods, not yet bright enough to reveal the two figures moving quickly under the trees near the beach, going southerly. Dalton Ashford and Edgar Russell moved with practiced silence, determination on their faces. The two carried canvas backpacks and all were armed with pistols. Ignoring the telltale sound of fairies and the chattering from two pixies, they moved towards the Indian village, or rather toward a place that lay between the camp and the beach, where they hid in the undergrowth.

It was the spot where a few days ago the two young dragons had played with the children, and Peter had seriously apologized to Hook for the first time ever. Carefully peering over the white sand, they saw a few canoes lying on the shore near the water line; a single warrior kept watch while sitting by a dying fire. The two Englishmen glanced at one another and nodded. This part was certainly the easiest …

Then the viscount checked his pocket watch. Timing was now essential!

At the same time, Archibald Hutchings, Morton Wickham and Einar Anders hiked north, and had already left camp at the first light, carrying their lanterns. They also carried the necessary equipment, smaller, less cumbersome, leaving the other gear behind. Heading toward the Black Castle they would stow the equipment they didn't need for their task near the portal before walking to their true destination: Dragon Valley. As soon as the plan was set into motion, speed would be necessary for survival.

Hutchings had a 'sour stomach' concerning their entire operation. Of course he still coveted a dragon egg; that prize was why he had ventured on this bizarre expedition in the first place. Such a trophy would validate his entire career! But after observing the dragons in their own habitat, their peaceful interactions, their obvious care and affection for their young, doubts had arisen. And concerning the girl! … Well, Miss Darling had made it abundantly clear that she would not accompany the viscount and did not want him as a husband. As a gentleman, Ashford was obliged to accept her clearly stated decision, but he wouldn't. His stated excuse was that he'd promised to rescue the girl. But again, obviously, he hadn't spoken one word of affection toward her or about her. In his gut, Hutchings knew it was because Ashford refused defeat against the last living Shalford.

Archibald, indeed, was very uncomfortable. Shalford may have been the youngest son of a marquess, but that was generations before. He was now a pirate, had adopted a moniker from his handicap (even Hutchings could tell the hook gave the captain certain advantages.) More significantly, he and the girl had a history together, a history that was now culminating in sincere affection, that much Hutchings recognized. Attacking the buccaneers was therefore even more hazardous. But no less hazardous than using the Indians for a decoy, challenging the Little People and kidnapping a dragon egg! (When had he started to think of it in THAT term?)

As the three men headed north and reached the Black Castle as the golden sun was rising out of the molten sea on the other side of the island, Oscar Alister, Reuben Jackson and Kenly Fulsom crept through the woods, following the cloven-hoofed tracks they had found the afternoon prior; tracks which would lead them to the creatures they would force to assist them.

Fulsom (a child of London, born and bred, who stumbled more than crept) was lost in his own thoughts. How had he gotten involved in this fiasco? Only four days prior, he had been a simple driver for the viscount, happy to earn a few more shillings helping out the old lady. Now he had burgled an old church, helped one who was obviously a witch to steal an old kettle on a tripod, helped bring a troupe of so-called 'hunters' to an old abbey ruin where the witch had opened a magical portal, and now he was on a faraway island not found on any chart, an island full of bogeys, fairies, dragons, savages and pirates! And why? Because of some mystical potion and that stupid girl that had brought him only trouble since he'd been unlucky enough to take a letter to her father. He was sorely tempted to stop and go back, to wait at the portal, but wasn't sure he could find the way.

'When this crazy adventure is over, I will demand double wages for my work, then quit! Working for the viscount is suicide!' he grumbled to himself. 'And when I think of today's task he and that mad Dane gave me yesterday … I can call myself lucky if I even get a chance to quit at all! And if I don't fall prey to a bunch of murderous little boys, I could get a bullet from an old gun in my head or end up burning at an Indian stake!'

*** PP ***

Most of Neverland's inhabitants woke around sunrise. In the village, the Indians began their daily routine, the fairies harvested the night's dew and pollen from the flowers, the pixies and bogeys were busy with their breakfast, and in the Mermaid's Lagoon the sea creatures emerged from their underwater caves, then swam to the surface for the day's first sun bath. Peter and his gang, underground, did not see the sunrise, but the knowledge of the strangers' presence on the island woke them earlier than usual.

On the Jolly Roger, the ship's guards remained on deck or at the forecastle, but, unfortunately, not with 'eyes wide open'. Instead, they snored like old saws, unaware that the door to the captain's quarters had opened, and two figures stepped out onto the quarterdeck.

Hook, clad only in breeches and harness, frowned when he saw the three men sleeping soundly and happily. He was only seconds from bellowing at them when Wendy giggled beside him. "All the better," she whispered. "Then they won't see us."

James growled. "But they're here to guard us from attack – that's the meaning of 'night watch'!"

"Yet I'm sure you're glad they don't see me like this." Her long slender legs were visible beneath Hook's shirt that only reached the middle of her thighs.

Well, yes, all right, he had to admit that he was indeed glad that his men weren't ogling her legs. That delicious sight was for his eyes only. So he couldn't rebuke the three sleepers just yet. But later … !

He couldn't know there would be no time for that, but for the moment, the morning was peaceful. And he looked forward to a bath in the warm Never Sea – together with Wendy. They both needed it after their flight through the woods yesterday, and the intense night they had shared. Perhaps later, a nice breakfast and, maybe, another nap ...

And Wendy, too, was tired, yet more alive than ever before. After making love again, they had held each other while falling asleep, feeling whole and happy, only to wake up two hours later and to surrender again to their desire.

Even now, a part of Wendy was still overwhelmed with all the different, wonderful emotions she had experienced in James' arms. And the knowledge that she was a woman now busied her mind and heart. Somehow everything seemed to be clearer and brighter. They were familiar yes, but different – as if seeing it with other eyes. She compared it to the difference of looking through a dirty window out into the world, and leaving the house and seeing the world for yourself. The air was fresher, the colors were sharper, the wooden planks beneath Wendy's bare feet felt cool from the night, yet smooth – things she had never noticed until now.

'I woke up,' she thought. 'Childhood has been like being caught in a beautiful but unreal dream, and now I am awake. And the real world is even more beautiful than the dream.'

Yes, she had left childhood behind her – or not?

Looking into herself, she still felt the wonder of being in Neverland, and her spirit was still open to all the miracles the island held. Maybe this was what the unicorn had meant, too. If you keep your heart open for the little wonders around you, you will always be able to see fairies, pixies, mermaids and all the other mystical creatures while other grownups only see lights, flashes, and invisible splashes in the water, believing it to be a big fish. And in a certain way, Wendy felt these wonders even more intensely than before. For a child, it's normal to believe in marvels, grownups mostly lose this ability, but the miracles continued to live Wendy's heart. Yet they were mixed with a new knowledge she hadn't possessed as a child, but had lurked at the edge of her consciousness for some time now – a knowledge revealed in James' arms. A knowledge that held the greatest wonder of all: the knowledge of true love.

And as she followed James down the companionway to the main deck, watching his half-naked form with those curls bouncing around his broad shoulders, she knew that she would never accept another man in her life. He was her anchor, yet also her ship that carried her into the future. He was her friend and the man who understood her. He was her protector. He was also a constant challenge. But above all he was the one who held her heart in a way no one else could – not even Peter, whom she still loved dearly, but … in another way than James. Peter was like a little brother to her now, while James … James was the man she loved like only a woman could, but never a little girl.

She couldn't know that James had similar thoughts. This morning after a night full of tenderness and passion, losing himself in the storm of feeling this particular girl was able to free in him, made this morning different than all other mornings of his life. Yes, he'd had his shares of wild nights – back then, before he came to Neverland. These were rapidly fading from his newfound memories. For never before he had given himself so completely to a woman as with Wendy. And as he heard her padding down the companionway, he felt a bond – invisible but present – that linked him to this woman, a bond far stronger than any real chain. And, to his amazement, he didn't feel caged, but freer than ever before. She was his mate – his other half. She made him whole. And because of this, the world around him appeared in a whole new light that made him feel welcomed. Even more so, he felt utterly at peace and, again, it was a balm for his scarred soul and his wounded heart.

Wendy slipped her slender hand in his as they reached the main deck, and she winked up at him. He grinned while they walked portside to one of the hinged openings in the ship's rail. "I'll go first down the Jacob-ladder and you follow. But be careful that you don't-" He got no further, for Wendy rose to her tiptoes, gave him a quick kiss on the cheek – and dove in.

Surprised, James watched her cut the water – no less elegant than one of the mermaids. She vanished beneath the waves, only to reappear a few feet away from the Jolly Roger; waving cheerfully at him. By the soggy remains of the old Flint, this wildcat drove him crazy!

"Are you coming, or what?" she called and laughed, as he rubbed his face with his hand,

"One day I'm going to lay you over my knee – grownup or not!" he swore.

"I would reconsider that, Blue-Eyes," a rough grumpy voice announced behind him.

Startled, Hook whirled around with a yelp, promptly lost balance and fell with a shout through the open railing. Esteban stared wide-eyed at the spot where, only a second ago, the captain had stood. Oops! Scurrying to the railing he looked down in time to see Hook turning to hit the water feet first, then the waves closed over him, accompanied by Wendy's hearty laughter. Though not Esteban's intention, he had to laugh, too!

James broke the surface, his long hair hanging over his face. Treading water, he used hand and hook to part the hair, but only when a second pair of hands gently wiped the curls away from his forehead, could he see again.

And what a sight it was!

Wendy swam before him, laughing, and with mirth in those dove-blue eyes. His wet shirt clung to her body and revealed more than it hid. "You really could have taken your time, James. No need to jump in after me," she teased.

Jump? If it had been a jump at all, but … Glaring upward he saw the Klabautermann standing at the opening, hand waving and hilarity wreathing his face. "Just wait until I'm back aboard, you ungrateful bogey!" Hook shouted.

"No hard feelings, amigo. I couldn't know that you'd be so jumpy this morning," Esteban called back.

"I'm not jumpy!" Hook snapped.

"So, you did fall," Esteban replied mockingly, pulled his pipe out, sitting on the plank and lighting a match.

"I didn't-" Hook had to cough as he found his mouth full of a splash of salt water.

"You won't win a battle of words with Esteban," Wendy snickered, winding both arms around his neck and smirked.

There were a hundred things he could have said at that point, but instead of doing so, he only wrapped his left arm around her and closed his lips over hers. Instantly she returned the kiss, smiling into it. She found this the most delightful way to wake in the morning, feeling his lips all over her face, his muscles alive beneath his warm skin, as they both worked to keep them above the surface of the sea water that was still a cool from the night, but warm enough to be pleasant. Taking a deep breath, Wendy placed her forehead against his. Her eyes shone with the new emotions roiling inside her. "Swimming was a splendorous idea," she whispered.

"Aye," he nodded. "We both needed a bath."

"Because of the unspeakably wonderful things we did last night?" she asked with a soft blush. Admittedly, a few areas of her body were sore (or at least well used) or hurt a bit in an exquisite, unique way. And she was sure that the love bites on her throat and breasts would be visible for a day or two.

He only hummed and pulled her closer, smiling as he felt the soft curves of her body through the thin material of the shirt.

The sun crept over the mountains of the island and sent its brilliant rays onto this part of the Never Sea, surely smiling on the unique sight in the water. The two lovebirds were on the far side of the ship, facing away from the island, and James' breath caught at the sight of his lover in the early sunlight. It danced around her and glistened on the waves which played around them like gentle caresses. The girl was a vision, far more beautiful than any mermaid or fairy could ever be. And she was his – his to hold and to cherish. The young morning became brighter, just like the girl that had turned into a woman last night. For him, Wendy was now even more breathtaking with this new knowledge that shimmered in her eyes; it warmed him more than any bonfire. Her smile glistened in the sun, and for a moment, they were no longer swimming in the mystical Never Sea, but in a sea of love that enfolded them like the silken shiny threads of a cocoon.

Hoisting Wendy a little higher in his arms, he nuzzled her long neck she offered with a wide contented smile, closing her eyes in happiness, and enjoying his immediacy and the gentle nibbling at her throat. Turning toward him, she kissed him again. For another moment, both were lost enough to forget that beneath them was nothing more than two dozen meters of water. Both went down and came bubbling back to the surface, laughing.

But they weren't the only ones. From above, amused comments were passed back and forth among the crew. Looking up, Hook realized that many of the crew were watching them; leaning on the railing, sitting on it or bracing themselves on the balustrade.

And they had seen him kissing and laughing!

Ooooooh no! His reputation!

"They're awake," he said, almost horrified. "All of them!"

Wendy snorted (most unladylike!) "After you shouted at Señor Esteban loud enough to be heard in Mermaid's Lagoon, it's no wonder they came to see what's going on."

James' gaze found the Klabautermann, who sat smoking his pipe, looking like the cat that found its way to the creamery. The nyxx was completely amused by their situation, of course. And didn't even flinch as he received the commander's fiery glare.

Giving up on Esteban, Hook yelled upwards, "Have you dogs no duties this morning?" The answer was open laughter and a few comments, before the men vanished. Hook growled. Brimstone and gall, it was about time to teach these scoundrels new discipline!

"Really, James, was it a good idea to send them all away? How do we get aboard now – without slipping off the Jacobs-ladder a few times?" Wendy asked, still grinning.

"Why should we slip off the ladder?"

"Easy – wet hands, wet feet, dry wood … don't you agree?" she sniggered.

He grumbled something beneath his breath. Dammit, the vixen was right. He wouldn't have a problem – of course not, having done it countless times already. But Wendy… well -

"Ahoy, Cap'n!" Smee's voice sounded down towards them. "Shall we make two ropes ready t' heave Miss Wendy aboard?"

James sighed. Good old Smee! That crazy Irish hen had his moments, he admitted yet again. "Yes!" he shouted back. "And get a larger towel for Miss Darling from my cabin!"

There were a few more minutes when the two actually did swim, until the men let something down that resembled a swing on children's playground. Hook helped Wendy onto the wooden plank between the two ropes, then she was pulled upwards. He grinned as he saw her perfect legs dangling down, giving him a new view of her …

One moment! She only wore his shirt which, unfortunately, revealed more than it hid! The men would surely see more of her than-

Oh … dammit! Why hadn't he remembered that detail? Blasted it all, when this girl was involved, his bright mind just waved 'good-bye'! "Stop! Wait until I'm aboard!" he cried, swimming quickly to the ladder, and beginning to climb up.

Well, shouted words are often misunderstood. Therefore, dear readers, it's certainly forgivable that the men aboard heard something like 'wanker aboard!' and thought their commander was calling them 'weaklings'. And, of course, they pulled harder and quicker to bring the young lady aboard as soon as possible to show Hook that they weren't 'wankers'.

Hook cursed and climbed up, but the Jolly Roger was a galleon with two cannon decks, crew quarters and a large hold – and therefore stood a great height above the water. He arrived on deck out of breath and angry. Esteban had been wise enough to disappear in time to avoid him. With James Hook, you could never be sure how he would react when he was irritated.

Hook was greeted with a sight that made him pause as his feet hit the planks. Wendy stood in a pool of water and had wrapped his oversized towel around herself, smiling cheerfully. Behind her, two men put empty buckets away and all the others had turned away except for Smee.

"You're really quick," she welcomed James with a wink, who scowled at their backs before he stepped nearer.

"You do know I expect my commands to be obeyed, men? I told you all to wait until I was aboard!"

"But Cap'n, ye called us 'wankers' an' we're none!" Mason – sporting a bandage around his arm where one of the hunter's bullets had grazed him – protested and turned around to face his angry commander.

"I … what?" Hook blinked. Was this man making a joke? No, Mason looked serious and clueless in one. Not that this was an usual expression on his face, but -

"Cap'n, ya wanna get rid o' th' saltwater, too, Sir?" Herb's voice asked behind him.

Saltwater? Frowning Hook turned half around, saw the helmsman pointing at his dripping body and realized what the man meant. "Yes, of course," he answered. Drying saltwater on the skin was miserable.

"Careful, Cap'n, please close yer eyes, Sir," Herb said. The next moment, Hook was hit from above with a full bucket of clean water, followed by a second one from the front and another from behind. Sputtering, gasping and wiping the water out of his face, he turned around; eyes ablaze.

"Do you two have a death wish?" he snarled at Akeele and Albino, who put the additional buckets – now empty – on the ground.

"Fresh water, Sir. It washes away th' saltwater," Albino said innocently.

"As requested, Sir," Akeele added with a regulation Navy salute.

"Requested?" His rant paused as he saw their eyes wandering to Wendy. Hold it! Was she behind this prank? Slowly he turned around and glared at the girl, who stood there innocent as a newborn. And he knew that expression well enough.

Wendy tried to remain serious, but for naught. A pool of water was around James' feet and water dripped freely, hair in his face again. She really tried control her features, but the amusement bubbled up and escaped. First she snorted, then she giggled, and finally began to laugh; her eyes brimming with mischief. "It seemed like a good idea at the time," she said, drawing his irritation away from the two crew members.

"So, this was your idea?" Hook gasped, pointing with his metal claw at the empty buckets.

Wendy nodded cheerfully. "Aye aye, James Hook, this was all my idea," she answered, imitating Peter's drawl just before he and Hook had their epic battle against each other during Wendy's first stay in Neverland. And, seeing his expression, it was obvious he remembered that moment as well. Still so innocent, the girl continued, "I asked your men if they could provide me with some fresh water to wash the salt water away. It felt so good that I asked them to help you, too," she explained, an impish smirk was now widening on her face.

They looked at each other – pirate captain and storyteller – then he narrowed his eyes. "I think, Miss Crabby, it's about time I teach you some manners," he said; his voice dangerously quiet and soft. With three long strides he was at her side and caught her before she could escape. Despite her sniggering protest, he threw her over his shoulder and walked towards the companionway upstairs to the quarterdeck. "Smee, breakfast in an hour!" he called.

"Aye, Sir. An' no worry, Cap'n. I'll knock an' wait afore I enter!" The glare he got was murderous, but deep in those blue eyes, the old Irishman saw mirth beginning to dance and knew that everything was fine. And as the cabin door banged closed, the crew began to guffaw. Smee felt absolutely at ease, knowing that, perhaps, it would be better to serve breakfast later than ordered. He really didn't want to barge into the middle of something his eyes were too old for …

*** PP ***

While the two lovebirds took lessons in 'learning manners' and 'making up' afterward, Peter and his friends finally managed to make breakfast. Peter then suggested that they all should have a closer look at the intruders. He still had an uncomfortable feeling, as if he'd lost something, and he assumed that it had to do with the strangers. "I don't trust this Ashford-fellow," he stated with narrowed eyes, and the other boys nodded.

John bit his lips. Ashford wasn't the only problem, yet he couldn't voice his fears to the younger boys. And he was really worried for his sister. He didn't trust her when it came to Hook. Her fascination with the pirate had changed and grown into something John didn't even want to think about. Even "worser," he was very aware of the man's desire for Wendy, and the eldest Darling son shuddered when he imagined what might have taken place last night.

And something big had happened during the hours of starlit darkness. John hadn't awakened like Peter, but somehow this morning was different than the others. And when he looked at Tinker Bell, he saw that the star fairy was indeed lost in thought, or watching her beloved Peter instead of her usual darting about. And this gave John second thoughts.

While the boys readied to leave the Nevertree to search for the intruders, he leaned toward the little alcove that served the fairy as a chamber, where she had vanished after breakfast. "Something happened, do you feel it, too?" he whispered.

Tink pulled a leaf curtain aside at the small entrance, and glanced out at John. She nodded and spoke something he couldn't understand because he didn't speak the bell-like language of her folk.

Slightly, armed with bow, arrows and sword, moved over to them. "Something wrong?" he asked quietly.

"I'm not sure, but I think something … happened last night."

Tink spoke up again and the former second-in-command of the Lost Boys raised both brows. "Tink says there was a magical thing in the air."

"A magical thing?" John was more than alerted now. As his cousin translated the fairy's next words, he blanched. "It was just like the moment Wendy gave Peter her first hidden kiss, only stronger." After Slightly checked back with Tinker Bell and finally nodded, John closed horrified his eyes.

"Wendy …" he croaked. "Oh, dear sister, what have you done!?"

"Maybe she kissed Hook?" Slightly suggested beneath his breath, careful that the others didn't hear them. But Peter and the rest of the boys were loud enough to be heard a mile away.

"She did that days ago," John murmured while grimacing and gulping. Feeling Tink looking at him he glanced down, and the fairy made some gestures Slightly thought better to translate again.

"She says we shouldn't tell Peter. This would be the worst time and he and Hook might become enemies again."

"Enemies?" John blinked in confusion.

"Peter can be very jealous, as you know. Wendy is his friend and he loves her – in his own way. If he learns that Hook has truly become a rival, he could call the truce off. And this would be a bad time, with Ashford and the others here." John sighed deeply and nodded; hoping against hope that his sister hadn't been so foolish as to make the step she could never undo.

At that moment, Aurora came darting into the hideout, jangling frantically. Tink rose into the air like a golden arrow, listened to what her friend said and, horrified, pressed her little hands before her mouth. With the rose fairy's arrival all boys quieted while Peter listened – and paled. "WHAT?" he screamed. As Aurora repeated her message, understood by most of the Lost Boys, he whirled around, grabbed a sword, flew up the exit and left the Nevertree; the others followed him instantly.

"What's the matter?" John demanded, climbing up the stairs, Michael on his heels. But none of the other boys answered; they were all too upset and alarmed.

Peter had barely reached the entrance level when he shot up into the air and looked to the east. His eyes wide, he stared at the pillars of smoke rising into the blue skies from where the Indian village was located.

*** PP ***

Dark Owl hadn't slept well. He had awoken during night because of a strange but not unpleasant feeling that passed over him. He'd felt the air buzzing with magic, but because outside everything remained peaceful, and no warriors left their tents, he had lain back to find sleep again. This time, he was haunted by strange dreams, which even now were clear in his memory:

Torches in the woods … Wisents running toward him, heads bowed, horns dangerously low, eyes wide in panic. He saw fire raging around him, heard shouts, screams, before everything became dark and cold. The anguished scream of a man echoed through the darkness … Snow was falling … Then a large arch, made of stone, showing in its opening glimpses of another world … huge dark canoes without sails, many people in strange clothes, a giant bridge with two towers, resembling those of the large stone house Iron Hand had named Black Castle … Little White Eagle, lying in the dark with bruised pale skin, a hole covered with bars, sobs echoing from stone walls …

Dark Owl shuddered, and groggy, shaken, he left the tent. His mother began to scold him for sleeping so long, but quit when she saw his eyes and the pallor beneath his copper skin. Feeling like he was sleepwalking, the brave stumbled to the river to wash himself. The cold water helped him clear his mind and calm his thumping heart.

A vision. He was certain that his dream had been a vision, and after one of his visions had come to pass – he had met the older boy with the fire-hair from his dream two days ago – he knew that this new vision was a warning.

Snatching up a slab of pemmican for breakfast, he went to the shaman's tepee. Great Big Little Panther knew by now that the young brave was gifted with the second sight, and welcomed him at his fire. A still pale Bumblyn, a recovering Kailen and a smiling Aurora greeted him, too. Sharing some tea and food, Dark Owl finally told Panther the reason for his coming. The shaman listened carefully, and his black eyes widened as he heard more details.

"Dark Owl was right to come to me with this dream," he said slowly. "It seemed that the Great Spirit in His eternal wisdom sends you these pictures and voices to warn you – or us."

"Evil it sounds," the pixie nodded; eyes big while he chewed a small piece of bread.

"A warning it is," Bumblyn affirmed; sipping at the little bowl with tea.

"But … of what?" the brave whispered. "This arch with images … I doesn't know what it means. Or the animals … Why should they …"

He went no further as suddenly the ground began to tremble. The next moment shouts of alarm echoed through the village. Both shaman and brave leapt to their feet and left the tent, rose fairy, pixie and Hobgoblin followed them. And then they understood what the guards were screaming: wisents!

Great Big Little Panther threw a look at Dark Owl, realizing that the young man was meant to be his successor one day. His connection with the magical beings of Neverland and to the Great Spirit would make him a formidable shaman.

But now, there were other things to think about, and both sprang into action. The people were running out of their tents to shelter in the trees, warriors were armed with spears, knives, bows and arrows, women carried the smaller children, searching for barriers to avoid the approaching danger. Kailen and Aurora rose above Panther, while Dark Owl hastily picked up Bumblyn, knowing that the little Hobgoblin would be overlooked as his people began to flee.

Through the undergrowth and between the trees, huge muscular bodies raced toward the large clearing where the village was encamped. Cloven hoofs pounded the earth and anything else beneath them, their deep lowing and something like a growl filled the air together with scattered dust, soil and grass, the beasts' tiny eyes were widened in panic. Dark Owl realized that his dream had been – indeed – a prophecy.

Then the wisents reached the clearing and hell came to the village.

Being in a condition of stampede, frightened beasts stormed through the camp, dashing through tents, people, frames of fresh tanned leather, drying meat and other provisions. Tearing down the tents, a few of the wisents were caught in the leathery material and fell, growing even more frantic. Their whirling hooves trampled inhabitants who hadn't been quick enough to flee. A few of the tepees came to rest in the fires within the tents and being coated with wax and tallow to make them more rain-proof, they easily caught fire along with the wooden poles. In moments, the flames spread, making the wisents even wilder in their desperate attempt to escape a danger that only existed in their manipulated minds.

The troop of wisents raced through the village; trampling whatever – or whoever – was in their path. Older people and women fell, little children were lost in the whirl of dust, furred bodies and stomping hooves, warriors who tried to shield their families were run over. Screams, moans and cries for help mingled with the thundering of the hooves and the panicked sounds of the wisents.

The whole terrible episode seemed to last for hours, but was over in under a minute, maybe two, but as the last of the frightened, destructive herd vanished into the woods on the other side of the clearing, they left utter destruction behind. The village was flattened; torn tents burned, sending dark smoke into the blue sky. The injured limped away or lay on the ground, moaning and groaning in pain. People searched for their relatives, the little boys and girls called for their parents. Cries of shock and mourning mingled with sobs. Those still unharmed ran to help wherever they could.

Great Big Little Panther and Medicine Woman sought out the wounded, seeking those who needed help the most. Dark Owl espied Tiger Lily at the edge of the clearing, surrounded by a few smaller children. He was mightily relieved when he saw her unharmed. Quickly he ran to her, pushed a trembling Bumblyn into her arms and then attended the shaman, ready to assist him. Chief Rain-in-the-Face gathered his warriors, grateful when he saw his daughter at the edge of the wood, disheveled but unhurt. Then his attention returned to his people, pushing aside the horror, choosing his next actions. He couldn't remember when anything like this had ever befallen his folk …

*** PP ***

Near the beach, the viscount and Russell had watched the Indian guard near the waterline between the canoes. As the first screams rose in the air, accompanied by the thunder of the approaching wisents, they saw how the warrior jumped up and whirled around. Even at that distance, they could see the shock on his face as his mask of control slipped. As the first stench of smoke reached him, and the shouts for helped increased, the warrior abandoned his post and began to run back to the camp.

He didn't get far. He barely passed the first bush when he heard a noise behind him. Turning around, reaching for his tomahawk, he saw the white, blond man with the pale eyes Chief Rain-in-the-Face had sent away. But before he could react, there was a sharp pain on his head and the world around him exploded in burning sparks, before it turned dark … Russell caught the warrior before his body hit the ground.

"Is he dead?" Ashford asked with some unease. He was no murderer!

Edgar had let the Indian slip to the ground, and pressed two fingers to the copper throat. "No, only unconscious. 'E'll 'ave headache, but that's all," he said calmly, as if speaking about the weather.

Dalton sighed in relief, then he helped the other man to pull the Indian deeper into the bushes, before Russell began to erase the tracks.

*** PP ***

Smee had brought breakfast later than ordered. While there was no "do not disturb" sign at the door to the captain's quarters, it was obvious that any disturbance was a (figurative) death sentence. As mentioned earlier, the ship wasn't soundproofed, and the crew, in an act of unprecedented gentility, busied itself toward the bow of the ship to grant their love-struck commander his privacy, sniggering and joking about it.

By now, the ship's routine had returned to normal, if you didn't count Hook's absence on deck. Usually he made his rounds every morning to check on the status of his ship, their latest projects, the weather, the state of the island, and the crew. But this morning, he skipped his routine, which surprised no one. Of course he preferred a meal with the beautiful storyteller, now both completely enclosed in the soft web of affection she began to weave around him years ago as a little girl.

The windows were open, the bed had clean linens and the dirty dishes as well as the leftovers from dinner the day prior had been removed by a smirking Cookson and a dutiful Smee. Hook and Wendy sat once again at the table, both fully clothed; he in dark blue breeches, a white shirt under which the golden chain with the dragon-scale shimmered and a light blue sash at his waist, feet clad in a light pairs of shoes new to Wendy. She had only seen him with boots. But then, it was only since yesterday that she knew him in a completely personal way.

Hook's glance wandered beneath half-closed eyes again and again to the girl at his side. He had given her the yellow dress that the pla … uh … discs had been wrapped in, which fitted her figure almost perfectly. She spoke about some darts she would have to add at the upper part of the dress where it was a little bit too long. And it was quite wrinkled, but at least it was clean. And she already told him that she would see to everything when he was on duty outside on deck after breakfast.

James wasn't aware of the smile that lingered on his face. The pale yellow gave her lightly tanned skin a golden glow, and brought out a secret hue of green to her eyes that made her iris nearly appear turquoise. He liked that color on her and hoped that he would be able to provide her with more dresses soon. He sighed: this wish must remain a wish. The ship's stock only held material for new sails and Neverland wasn't exactly a shopper's paradise. And he was bound to the island, so buying new dresses for her was not an option.

Well, maybe he could ask Pan for a favor, like bringing back a few of her clothes from her home. It irked him to ask the cad for anything … but in this case, his pride would have to stay silent and-

Peter…

Great galloping gallumpus! He would have to speak with the boy about how things had changed, and he was aware that Pan might simply set off in a raging fit, but he owed the churl that much. And, of course, it would be bad form to keep something that important away from him, after all, for Wendy was Peter's friend, too. James sincerely hoped that everything would sort itself out in the end, but at first (this much was certain) there would be a lot of screaming, pouting and certainly tears. Possibly threats. He could already hear it … couldn't he? The screaming …?

He saw Wendy leap to her feet and run to the window, from where screams really came to them. And they sounded … terrible, desperate, painful and frightened. And it wasn't just screams from children's throats. No, there were also voices of grownups, and a rumbling -

The door to the cabin slammed open as Smee came running in, not wasting time knocking. "Cap'n, t'e Indian village," he called out of breath into the startled glance of his commander, who also rose. "Somethin' verra bad is goin' on t'ere," he added.

"Smoke!" Mason's voice shouted from the main deck. "Smoke from the village! Th' tents are burnin'!"

Hook quickly used the napkin, threw it down and hurried to the door, Wendy on his heels. Striding to starboard, he saw his crew gathered at the railing on the main deck and looked out to Neverland's shores. Following their distressed gestures, he pressed his lips in a thin line when he saw smoke rising to the skies – tall columns of gray that darkened the sky. The screams were louder now, and he knew they were cries for help.

"Cap'n!" Smee stopped beside him and handed him the telescope he quickly lifted to his eye, feeling Wendy at his other side. There was little to see, only the beach and a few abandoned canoes, but there was no doubt that something terrible was taking place in the Indian encampment.

"There!" Wendy pointed toward the south and Hook gasped as he saw the large brown creatures racing away from the village through the woods.

"Wisents!" he growled. "They're in a panic. And it seems they have run directly through the village!"

"Ach my sweet Mary and Joseph," Smee whispered a holy phrase he hadn't used in ages. "Just imagine th' beasties runnin' t'rough th' camp, stompin' everth'in' into th' ground – includin' people!"

Both men shared a look, while Wendy pressed a hand to her mouth. "Oh no, we have to help them!" she breathed, shocked.

"How? The damage is already done-"

The girl whirled around to face Hook, looking fierce: "Yes, the damage has been done – certainly to dozens of men, women and children! They're injured, the village is burning, the fire could spread into the woods! And you have fifty men aboard who can help put out the flames and help the injured!"

"She's right," the bosun added, tentatively. "At least we could try t' put out th' fire. It's no rained for days an'-"

"And the chief and Panther are your allies – and Tiger-Lily is my friend!" Wendy added. "We have to help them!"

Hook hesitated. He himself felt the definite urge to lend the Indians their assistance. After all, they had come to his aid in the Mount of No Return. And only a few days ago he had sat at their bonfire and had broken bread with them. Yet … "I have a bad feeling," he said slowly. "The wisents have been here longer than I have, and never before have they stampeded. Why now? Why through the village, and why now, when Ashford and the others are here?"

Wendy threw her hands up. "Maybe they've stirred them up by walking like the morons they are through the woods, acting like city bosses instead of wilderness explorers. Truthfully, I do not bloody care why the stupid creatures began to run. I only care that they did – and that there might be people bleeding to death over there, people who have lost all they have, while we stand here discussing the reason for the catastrophe!" Her eyes blazed, pointing toward to the beach.

Hook took a deep breath. She was right! Pirates were known for looking out only for themselves, but Good Form demanded that they help. That, and he wanted to do as his beloved demanded. No, there were other reasons as well. They were all 'in the same boat' here in Neverland, so to speak, and life had not only become easier since their truce with the Indians (and Pan), but he respected the Indians. They were formidable warriors and hunters, raised loving families, and had their own fascinating culture he had only begun to explore. What he had learned so far impressed him. Indian culture was so different from his own back in England. For them every animal, every plant, even every stone had a soul, and they lived close to the Great Spirit whom they adored. The result of this belief was a deep, respectful interaction with every being – something, all 'white men' could learn from, taking 'a page from their book.'

And now these people, whom he had come to respect and even to like, were facing destruction, pain and certainly death and injury. There was only one thing to do now, even if his gut-feeling wouldn't let him alone. "Ship's company, attention!" he shouted, while walking to the balustrade of the bridge to look down onto the main deck. All faces looked expectantly at him, while a few men already prepared the three long boats. Yes, they really knew him well.

"We will offer our support to the Indians. They are our allies and we owe them that much. Smee, Albino, Quang Lee and Gilmor, get our medical equipment, rum to clean wounds, blankets, bandages, food, clothing, clean water. Cookson, you and Herb gather half of the provision we got from the tribe a few days ago. We'll return the food to them as they will surely need it. Mason, Scourie, Turley, Lally, Whibbles and Akeele: you let the boats down and remain aboard to guard our ship. We have enemies nearby. The rest of you: arm yourselves and be ready to row over! And quickly, men. We're needed!"

He turned around and strode back to his cabin. "Kitten, help me into the boots and my weapon sash. Smee is otherwise occupied."

"Of course," Wendy nodded and followed him inside, ready to take on her role as the captain's assist.

As quickly as possible she held his boots and saw him grimacing as he slipped into the still damp interior. "I'll ask Jukes if he can lend me a pair of breeches and a shirt. He is the smallest in your crew-"

Hook, who had just donned his dark blue waistcoat, looked up. "Pray tell why do you want to change clothes?"

"Trousers are far more practical when climbing into a boat -"

"You'll stay here," he interrupted her, shoving his pistol into the sash.

"What?" Wendy blinked. "What are you saying? I'm coming with you, of course!"

Firmly shaking his head, Hook put on his dark blue captain's coat. "We don't know what to expect over there – and I don't want you on that island as long as that villain Ashford is in Neverland!" He handed her the shoulder sash that held the sheath, and she quickly wrapped it around him and clasped it.

"But I can help! I learned first aid at school-" She stopped as he cupped her chin with his hand. His eyes – even bluer as the material of his captain's coat mirrored in them – were intense.

"I know, sweetheart. I know that helping hurt people is a womanly thing, and normally I would happily take you with me, even if the sight of the devastation might give you bad dreams. You're strong, no doubt about it. But I can't shake the thought that this is a very well planned, evil trap that Ashford set up to get you off the ship."

Wendy stared at him, shocked. "But … that would mean that he knew that people would be hurt because of him – or even die!" She shook her head. "I can't believe he would go so far."

James snorted. "For men like him, the Indians are nothing more than savages with no value. That's how they think. I will not allow you to fall into his hands." He bent forward and pressed a quick kiss on her lips. "Stay here, my love, and remain here! Promise me you will obey this time! If he gets you and takes you back to London, we may never see each other again, for Neverland's borders may be closed to you, and I'm bound to the island."

Wendy gulped. Two impetuses were living in her heart. She wanted to help Tiger-Lily and the others, but she feared that James was right and Dalton was indeed behind this horrible disaster, created to lure her away from the ship. And – again Hook was right – if the viscount captured her and forced her away from Neverland, she and James would be separated. Possibly forever.

That thought was agony, and so she whispered, "All right. I'll stay here – I promise." She stretched herself, wound her arms around his neck and kissed him. "Be careful, will you? Dalton might be somewhere over there and may try to shoot you when your back is turned."

He smiled, touched by her concern. "Don't fear, little one. My men will secure the village. Being cautious is second nature to a pirate; otherwise, we'd never live long enough to earn a decent pirate reputation!" He winked at her.

"Yes, yet I know that you're as daring as Peter," the girl sighed.

Hook grinned. "For once I don't mind being compared to the little pest." He gave her a peck on the cheek, backed out of her embrace and hurried to the door. "Until later, kitten!"

She watched him leave – and an unnamable fear settled in her stomach, but she held her tongue, praying.

TBC…

Yes, don't shoot me for putting such horrible chaos among the Indian camp, but even this is only the beginning of what Ashford and his men will do at this day to gain their goals. And help is already on the way, yet you can imagine what to what burning tepees in the middle of a wood could lead. And, once again 'yes', this here was a nasty cliffhanger, but be sure the next one will even be nastier (*snicker*).

And referring the next chapter, I don't want to reveal too much this time, but Ashford can register a few more successes, while turmoil and chaos spread through Neverland and aboard the Jolly Roger…

I hope, you liked the chapter despite the inhuman plan of Ashford to drove wisents through the camp, knowing it would bring Hook and Peter to the scene. At least the beginning was romantically and funny, but these few hours will give Wendy and James the strength to get through what the near future holds for them.

Like always I would be happy to learn of your thoughts, so please leave again some comments.

Have a nice weekend,

Love

Yours Lywhn / Starflight