Hi, my dear readers!

First I wish you all still a Happy New Year and hope you had a funny and beautiful New Year's Eve. And just before the holidays for the most are over, here comes the next chapter – not as soon as I planned, but stil…

Thank you so much for the feedback; I knew you would love the last chapter, even if it was really dramatically. The new one becomes a little bit more peacefully and calm – a little break for all, except for Dalton (he-he).

Have fun

Yours Lywhn / Starflight

Chapter 76 – Second Chances

Most of the group had returned to the manor; only a few of Hook's men were still outside on watch while the rest gathered in the hall where it was warmer. Albino was carefully restoring the sheen and razor edge to captain's sword. The previous events had put them all 'through the wringer' – and so they felt the cold, damp air outside twice as much; the chill in the air now lingering on their skin as well as in their hearts.

James felt something inside uncoil after Peter's left arm had been treated and he escorted the boy to a quiet room next to the Green Salon. The traces of the dreadful wound now were gone from him, and he was wrapped in a warm comforter. Peter dozed off with Wendy and Cora Bailey watching over him. The two fairies lounged above him on the settee, and Bumblyn rolled himself into a ball at Peter's feet. For once the boy who 'never needed anyone' did not want to be alone. His shirt and waistcoat, both ruined, were ashes in the fireplace. Dark Owl gave him his own shirt which the brave had received from John two days ago. He wouldn't need it when he returned to Neverland. And it seemed the young Indian already knew in his heart that Peter had truly decided to remain on the Mainland.

Knowing Peter to be safe and sound asleep, Hook returned to the kitchen, where Olivia washed out the blood on his waistcoat, most of it coming out in the cold water. James had washed his shirt (with Nissa's assistance) and the stains were only a faint outline now. The blood on his hand and hook was wiped off; James still shuddered when thinking of the dying Pan in his arms.

As he left the kitchen, the younger boys sipped large mugs of tea while Olivia and Hutchings fed the dragonling raw meat, Nissa helping. Cudrim was shivering in the cool of the house, even as the scholar made a nest from his jacket beside the warm oven, the nestling continued to quiver, needing its mother, for she would best be able to look to his needs.

Returning to the entrance hall, Hook heard the voices of Smee, Herb, Skylights and Robb coming from downstairs. From what he heard, they were treating the hunters' wounds. And it sounded like they were not been gentle while bandaging the men.

Cookson, just back from the cellars, smirked as he caught his captain's raised eyebrow, and explained: "Dey're treated wit' eye-dine an' sum odder med'sin th' youn' lady give Smee. It na be pleasant."

"I know," Hook nodded. "But I hope this time none of those blackguards can escape."

"Dinna fear, Capt'n, Mason an' Skylights be on watch. If one o' those idjits wanna make a run, t'ey shoot 'im down."

James nodded, satisfied. He knew how incensed his men were regarding Ashford's henchmen –not least for the attempted burning of the ship, for kidnapping their own 'Miss Wendy' and Peter, and for chasing the buffalos through the Indian village. They wouldn't show any mercy if one of the hunters tried anything. "And the witch?"

"Is still dreamin' an' locked up, too," the ship's cook reported smugly.

Witch … Hook's thoughts went to Mother Ludlam. Waving at Cookson to come with him, James went down the stairs Herb and Skylights had cleared of the pieces of the blasted door. Both men approached the witch's kitchen and stopped at the threshold. They grimaced as they were greeted by the ugly smell, seeing the mess the exploding potion had left behind. Hook's sharp eyes went over the shelves, filled with documents, Pergament scrolls, bottles, boxes, smaller cauldrons and the variety of bits and bobs he wanted to know nothing more about; most of the items were covered with a drying, dingy fluid. Between the shelves was an oven with a smaller cauldron that was toppled over and its contents obviously responsible for the mess around him. There were also a large table with black candles, bottles and more, and – what captured his attention – an open fireplace filled with a circle of stones. The broken, scaled eggshell proved that was where the dragonling had hatched.

James made a face. "Looks like a herd of Hobgoblins ran through it."

Cookson snorted. "It's worse th'n me kitchen in t'e Black Castle arter yer sweethear' came ter tha' troublmakers' aid."

Hook nearly smiled, remembering the scene well, still looking around. And there was his reason for coming: A larger cauldron made of bronze on a tripod: Mother Ludlam's cauldron! The old pixie – Mawgan – and Kailen sat on the pot's edge chatting, but stopped as they became aware of the two humans. Expectantly they looked at Hook, who glanced over the cauldron warily. Beneath it were piles of firewood, still smoldering. And in it was an odd liquid – certainly the potion that was supposed to heal the Ashford-curse. James moved into the room. The floor was covered with the sticky drying fluid; glass splinters crunched beneath his boots.

Mawgan rose and stood on the edge of the cauldron, and recited as if it were a story told by the fireside: "By many pixie hands this cauldron was made, and given to the wise Mother Ludlam. Everyone she helped who came to her cave and in need. A fateful evening it was when, to a man she gave the cauldron who begged her to lend it for a day. And though warned by her heart she was, allowed him to take it she did – to our sorrow and her regret. For the son of Adam did prove untrue, and keep it did he, though for many years he did live to bemoan his deception. Roaming the world between the living and the dead she does now, until by hand of a brave and noble man the cauldron is returned."

"Why will not her soul find rest until this pot is returned?" Hook asked

"Full of our ancient magic this cauldron is – magic unfit for mankind. Taking away this magical power she wants so that no mischief can be done anymore by any human."

James raised his brows, acknowledging, "I see." Looking over the large cauldron, he mused about how to proceed. He wanted to return the cauldron, of course; on the other hand this object was unmistakable proof of the Lunette-woman's madness – proof they would need for the authorities. But if this oversized soup pot still held magic, then he could prevent further mischief by giving it back to Mother Ludlam. Kept in a church, the blood of the covenant between God and man prevented the cauldron from being used for mischief, for the Lord prohibited the use of the dark arts. But what if someone got hold of this pot again and abused it?

Biting his lower lip, James told them, "Cookson, take one of the smaller pots, place it on the stove over there and fill it with the contents of Mother Ludlam's cauldron. I'm sure the presence of that … substance will be enough to convince the authorities that the old hag should be put to a madhouse." He pointed at the bronze pot. "Then take two of our men, empty the rest somewhere in secret and wrap up the cauldron. When we take our little beast and Dark Owl to the portal, we'll take the cauldron as well. Mother Ludlam's cave is nearby; I will return this talisman back to its rightful owner."

Scratching his cheek, Cookson nodded. "Aye, Capt'n."

Mawgan soared towards Hook. "Giving back you do?" he asked, while Kailen also approached.

"Aye! If Mother Ludlam can only find rest after she has done what is necessary, then I'll help her. She saved Peter. And think of it; a decent man who was a thief deluded her, now a marquess who is a pirate amends the wrong. Ironic, isn't it?" He slapped his ship's cook on the back. "Get to it. I expect a few of the lads and me to leave shortly." He turned, but then looked back. "And Cookson? I respect the way you fought the witch. I did not know your faith was that strong."

The tall man smiled. "I be a pirate at 'eart, Capt'n, but tha' don' mean I be an infidel."

James smiled back. "As are the rest of us." He nodded at his cook and the two pixies, then left. Shortly after returning to the entrance, he found most of his men huddled near the open fire in the fireplace. Nodding to them, he went to the green salon. It was the very same salon where, almost a week ago, Ashford and his hunters held their last discussion before their journey to Neverland, where Lunette had instructed them how to 'defend' themselves against the Little People.

Now another kind of discussion would happen here, between Hook, George Darling, Daniel Kempton, the ladies and the four oldest boys as well as Dark Owl. They had all gathered around the cheerfully blazing fire, newly fed. All looked expectantly at him as he entered. James knew they had to decide what to do with the captives and how to proceed. And there was something else that busied Hook's mind: Mother Ludlam's advice to send Peter back to Neverland to heal properly. James did not know how to approach this subject – especially with Wendy and Peter. But Peter was deeply asleep in the next room and Wendy with him, so he went on to the more urgent topic.

Hanging his waistcoat near the fire to let it finish drying, James let himself fall into a free armchair. He was tired. But there was no time for rest now. Victoria spoke almost instantly. "Dalton … we have to find him."

"Do we?" Hook replied wryly.

"Yes," she nodded, still deeply ashamed that her cousin had tried to force himself upon Wendy. Truthfully, if it were up to her, Dalton could go to hell. But there was another reason why they had to find her wayward cousin. She took a deep breath; knowing that the captain wouldn't like what she was about to say. "I phoned Uncle Marlow when Dalton took Wendy hostage and -"

"You did what?" cried James, George and Daniel simultaneously.

Vicky sighed. "I thought he could talk some sense into his son. Dalton may be a spoiled brat who always said he didn't need 'Daddy' to pull the chestnuts out of the fire for him, but he loves and respects his father. I hoped Uncle Marlow could help."

The three men exchanged a glance. "And what did 'dear' Uncle Marlow say when he learned about the crimes of his son?" Hook asked sarcastically.

Vicky made a face, and took a deep breath. "I told him that Dalton had lost all control when my friend Wendy told him that she didn't want him – that she loved another man she is now engaged to. I told him that Dalton hired some criminals, kidnapped you and took Wendy hostage when she and her father came to get her fiancé back. He heard the screams and shots – and he heard Lunette screeching. I told him that Lunette is obviously responsible for all of the insanity – that she concocted some sinister potions in a secret room in the cellar, that since then she and Dalton had gone further and further off the deep end until it came to a head this evening."

"Hm … plausible," Daniel murmured. "That's an official version we can work with." He glanced at his beloved. "What did your uncle decide?"

"He and possibly Aunt Beverly are on their way to Surrey. I don't think they can get here before tomorrow morning sometime. Uncle Marlow also said that he would send help – whatever that means. He was in hurry when he hung up."

"Hmm," George murmured. "Learning one's son is a criminal, who kidnapped and threatened murder would definitely drag me to the scene quickly."

There was a brief knock and Smee entered, somewhat out of breath. "Th' scoundrels down b'low got th' ordered treatment, Capt'n, an' Cookson an' Herb be takin' care of tha' cauldron!" he reported.

He was instantly confronted with several people warning him, "Shhhh!"

"Wha'?" he asked

Hook gestured towards door to the next room. "Peter is asleep," he said quietly.

Bryan couldn't help the crooked smile. His captain's attitude toward the boy was unexpected, appealing. Then he took a deep breath. "Sir, two of th' boys said tha' they saw th' viscount drivin' down th' way and turnin' ter th' right at th' end of th' little street t' th' estate. Th' pixies followed 'im."

"He turned right?" Victoria asked. "He's heading toward Farnham; probably to catch a train to Dartmouth," she crossed her arms, "and his father is on his way here. What a mess!"

"Hm, I don't think he'll escape the pixies," Hook murmured. "You probably don't know much about them, but you can't escape them once they're after you."

"What you mean 'after you'?" Victoria asked carefully.

Hook exchanged a quick look with Nibs, Curly and Slightly, while John readjusted his crooked spectacles, but wisely the boys remained quiet. Dark Owl kept his face blank. Like them, the captain had a very good idea of what the green pranksters would do to the viscount, but he didn't want to upset Wendy's best friend. "I'm sure they will give him a payback he won't forget – and possibly even bring him back to the manor."

"Then we'll 'ave th' full gang o' wrongdoers toget'er – locked up below," Smee smirked and rubbed his hands. Hook waved an arm and Smee sat down on the last free chair.

Daniel spoke up: "Which brings me to our next topic. What to do with Ashford's confederates?"

"I think our only choice is handing them over to the police," George said calmly. "Maybe the help that Earl Ashford mentioned to Victoria is the police. They might already be on their way here."

Hook frowned but nodded. "I agree."

Victoria and Millicent nodded wordlessly while Mrs. Darling smiled into her teacup. Of course this was the only way to deal with those gangsters.

Smee frowned. "Ca't we jus' let' em vanish?" he said pleadingly, which earned him a sharp look from the three ladies.

Hook rolled his eyes. "We're no longer in the Caribbean – nor in Neverland, Smee." He sighed. "As much as my hook longs for their guts, those times are over." He grimaced. "And we need to plan that the earl did indeed inform the police and they are on their way to us." He glanced at Victoria. "How long before the arrival of our uniformed visitors?"

"I'm not sure, but the next police station is in Guildford – probably an hour and a half drive."

"And how long ago did you call your uncle?" Daniel asked.

"Half an hour, give or take," she answered, "right after Dalton took Wendy hostage."

"So … we could still travel to the abbey to send those back to Neverland who desire to return," Hook mused. "Even if we're not here when the police arrive, we can tell them that we were searching for the viscount after he left in a rather confused state of mind." He took a deep breath, considering. "The police will have enough to do with that collection of yeggs downstairs. By the time they're done with them, we'll be back."

"Ashford's men will try to blame everything on him and Lunette," Kempton murmured.

"Of course they will," George nodded. "But they are grown men who know something about the law and right versus wrong, and should have left when their orders took an evil turn. We can't accuse them of their infamy in Neverland, but they broke enough laws in England to put them in prison awhile. Kidnapping and attempted murder are not trial offenses but crimes. Furthermore, they didn't restrain the viscount from committing more crimes, like drugging and locking up my daughter, keeping her here against her will. They didn't prevent any wrongdoing while Peter was held captive here in the manor, either."

"That Peter was held captive here is something we can't mention," James said slowly. "The authorities would ask why and how the boy had been kidnapped, why I didn't call the police."

"Yes, of course," George nodded. "They wouldn't believe anything about Neverland and their trip back here. But remember, Ashford's men assisted him in kidnapping you, and chased the boy through Kensington Gardens to abduct him, too. There are witnesses who could give statements about it. I think, that's already reason enough to commit them to prison."

"An' tha' bastard set th' custom on us," Smee grumbled.

Hook glanced at him. "Ashford taunted me about that. How did it end?"

Smee grinned. "Th' blokes dinna e'en go 'board our ship. Tha' nice capt'n who helped th' lovebirds t'ere," he nodded toward Daniel, " – and ye, sir, after we got Pan out o' th' orph'nage, spoke on our b'half. He told'em of th' viscount's attempt ter kidnap yer son and tha' he couldn't bear ter lose Miss Wendy ter ye. Th' men from th' custom were sore beset an' left wit'out commin' aboard."

"This tells its own story," Kempton stated wryly. "Ashford lied to the customs official and abused his authority for a personal desire for revenge. I'm sure the gentlemen of the Waterguard have given a full report to their superiors, and that will add more grist to the prosecution's mill. In truth, there were a lot of dock workers who witnessed how Ashford and a few of his men chased Mrs. Darling, the boys and Captain Hook onto the area of the docks. His threats against the captain were heard by everyone there."

"We must have a good story of how it came to pass that there was motorcar chase at all," James sighed. "We can't tell the police that we rescued Peter from an orphanage where the director and staff don't even remember the boy, thanks to the fairies! It would lead to more questions we don't want to answer."

Daniel smirked humorlessly. "I accused Ashford of kidnapping Peter without saying when. It could have been half an hour before that you learned of it; Mrs. Darling helped you by driving the car, so you rescued your son from his kidnapper. That led to the motorcar chase afterwards. I'll remind you that the dock workers were truly 'up in arms' when they learned that Ashford had tried to use your son to blackmail you into giving up Miss Wendy. I'm sure you could find many to attest to this crime, which would illustrate Dalton's 'unfortunate dementia,' and how his hirelings took part in in his brief abduction."

"Hm, that's all very well, but I'm sure those rascals will put forward a counter-claim – against you, Captain," Nibs added for consideration. He met Hook's eyes and added: "You injured two of them with your hook."

"Self-defense and the protection of his child," Daniel responded.

"Of course, injuring the man in the entrance hall was an accident – done in haste to save your son. We all saw it," George nodded.

"The same for the one the captain cut down in the dungeon," Curly contributed. "He was about to shoot Peter! There was no time to do anything else! We can all testify to that, including Wendy and Peter. When the authorities learn what Ashford – and Lunette – did to him, and what those hirelings supported, they're done for. Just like their boss."

James pressed his lips together, thinking. "Most of those crimes Ashford committed were in connexion with Peter," he said, "and there lies the problem." As he saw their questioning looks, Hook explained: "The ghost advised us that Peter should go back to Neverland. How am I to explain the absence of my 'son' if the authorities want to talk to him, which they certainly will?"

George and Daniel saw that this was the reason for Hook's apprehension since they returned into the manor. The boys and Victoria were surprised. "But … Peter wanted to stay here," Slightly protested, while John, Curly and Nibs all chimed in the same: "We all heard what he said when he was hurt. He chose you and Wendy, and for once Neverland wasn't his choice. He said that he wanted a real family – with you two as his parents!"

"He told us he talked with Mab; he made it clear that he would stay here if you all weren't allowed back to Neverland," Nibs murmured.

The Darlings exchanged a glance. They hadn't heard what Peter said to the captain. Hook had told George the previous evening that Peter would never abandon Neverland, his little kingdom full of fun and adventure. If the boy hadn't deserted his childhood for the crush he had on Wendy, he wouldn't do it for anyone else. So, the pirate had miscalculated. As attached as Hook was to the child, the feelings were mutual. George saw the bond they had formed was strong enough to keep the boy at the captain's side. But this would mean that Wendy, still very much a child herself, would have the responsibility for a boy only a few years younger than she – well, apparently. There would be problems.

Hook took a deep breath. "Aye, but Mother Ludlam said this last injury would leave scars – not on his body but on his soul, unless he returns to Neverland. She thinks that he can heal there properly and can come back to be with us later."

"My tribe would take good care of Little White Eagle as he healed," Dark Owl contributed, even though thinking that the Pan wouldn't change his mind, choosing to remain here should Iron-Hand be banished from Neverland forever. He also knew what this would mean for the island: It would be remain in winter until a new Pan was chosen. Not a pleasant prospect, but it seemed Peter's change of heart was because of the fairies. They had tricked the boy, now they had to face the music. And to save their little realm, they had to choose a new Pan or yield to Peter's wishes.

"But returning is not what Peter wants," James added. "If he goes back to Neverland, he can't … well … force Niam to reconsider."

"You think he might reconsider his decision instead and not return," John guessed; voice filled with sympathy. It was clear how strong Hook's fatherly love was for Peter.

The captain nodded slowly. "Aye. After my memories returned, I spoke with Great Big Little Panther. He confirmed that Neverland protects itself with forgetfulness of the past. Even those very dear to us become shadows and vanish from our minds in time." This answered so many questions for the other adults, but Hook continued. "That Peter was able to remember Wendy after he brought her home the first time tells us how strong his feelings were – and are! – for her. The same goes for Wendy, who was already quite mature her first time in Neverland. And the same for the boys later, because that time they didn't forget their home in London during their second stay on the island. Panther explained that very strong ties to the Mainland prevent some from forgetting everything, but most things are erased."

"Peter feels deeply for you, too, Captain," Slightly pointed out. "He has come to rely on you."

This reminder warmed James, but he was still anxious. "I'm sure he will remember me for quite some time, but I fear that the depth of his feelings will lessen over time, until Neverland is again more important to him. And he would forget what he previously wanted – and I would lose him. Damn, that tyke has been a part of my life for so long now, I can't imagine life without him." He slowly shook his head, leaning his elbows on his knees, black curls tumbling forward. "I know his health is far more important, but scars are an important part of our lives and that's what he wants – a real life, not that everlasting pretense in the fairy realm. He told me about his early years in Kensington Gardens and how the fairies tricked him into staying with them. They distracted him repeatedly until it was too late for him to return home. He found his mother's window barred and she had a new baby."

"That house south of the Gardens where we stopped," Daniel mused. "That upper window he was staring at – his nursery, right?"

Hook nodded. "Aye. It pierced him that his mother seemed to have forgotten him, but we learned that she and her husband searched for years for him. He only learned about that after we spoke with Mrs. Bailey, what really happened over a century ago: He was denied a normal life being loved by his parents. Perhaps this knowledge tipped the scale, you might say, allowing him to remain with Wendy and me as his family."

George was beginning to understand the tragedy of the boy who was Peter Pan, and he felt the stirrings of compassion. The boy had been deluded by those beings he trusted: The fairies. And now he was given the opportunity to live in a real family. Yes, Wendy was quite young to be his 'mother,' but other young girls had married older men with children, and had raised them successfully … though this one had lived in a fantasy kingdom and was accustomed to complete freedom … George's thoughts flitted to his own cozy upbringing; he could empathize with the lad's yearning to have parents.

Hook's next words echoed his thoughts. "Peter now has a second chance he never thought he would, and this time he's taking it. Can't say that I blame him." He rubbed his face, frustrated and stared down at the floor. "And now I shall tell him that he must return to Neverland to heal something that is a normal part of life: His scars."

"I have lots of scars. Most have vanished. Some remain."

The lad's voice in the doorway was weary, and all turned to look at him. A sheepish looking Wendy (still wearing her mother's coat, her cheek and jaw turning a definite purple) and a gently smiling Cora flanked him. Tink darted about unhappily above him. "One more or less won't matter – I'll stay!" he added quietly.

While all the men rose at the arrival of the two ladies, Hook sat up straight and lifted his brows. "You eavesdropped," he stated.

The boy shrugged. "How can I not when you're talking about me? I thought I'd better join you."

Rising, James looked at him sharply: Peter wore the large shirt that hung over short pants. There were dark bruises on his throat; he was deathly pale, dark shadows under his eyes, looking ready to fall asleep again. Yet he had to make a decision that would determine the rest of his life. "How much did you hear?" Hook asked quietly.

"Enough to know that I have to choose now what I want." He licked his dry lips and looked into Hook's eyes. "I want to be with you as my father." He saw the unfamiliar tears leap into the man' eyes. Peter reached out and put his cold fingers into Wendy's warm ones. "And I want Wendy as my mother," he added. He bit his lower lip, frowning, and blurted, "I'll even wear shoes!"

There were many wet eyes among the grownups in the salon as well, which some covered up with smiles at Peter's last statement. Tink's big eyes also filled with tears. Aurora came beside her and jingled very quietly. Tink only nodded with a tiny discordant sob. For once she wouldn't try to influence Peter. Aurora had reminded her that this was a decision her friend had to make alone.

A new unfamiliar joy spread through Hook at Peter's statement. The boy had chosen him – over his beloved oversized playground! And about wearing shoes … none understood the depth of what Peter was saying, for shoes meant giving up his wild side and a precious part of his freedom. The pirate in James applauded Peter's bravery at this decision. But the other part of him – the one concerned about his total condition – said: "Make no rash decision, Peter. As I said yesterday: You can only give up your childhood once." Hook placed his hand on Peter's shoulder. "And there is also the risk that the traumas you have just gone through will remain to bother you later."

Peter swallowed. He was tired, his arm and his throat hurt, he had a headache, he was cold and he wanted to drop into a warm bed. He also wanted to be hugged … by Hook. just like the pirate-captain had done the previous evening – but the man seemed to hesitate granting him this wish; the same wish denied him by Mab: For a real family. "I told you, I already got a few scars. Here's one you gave me," Peter said quietly and pointed at his chest where Hook had cut him in the dungeons of the Black Castle. "Do you want to give me another one?"

James looked at him curiously. "What do you mean?" he asked, astonished. He would never hurt the boy that way again, so… ?

Peter swallowed hard, then blurted, "It sounds like … you want me to return to Neverland while you're still banished … as if you wanted to … to force me away now, and … and …" – 'That would give me a scar worse than all the others' – these unspoken words hung in the air between them.

Hook's eyes widened in shock. "I don't … I would never … I won't …" It was so unusual that the proud captain of the mighty Jolly Roger found himself speechless. He looked to Wendy, who only raised a brow. Men! Bumblyn, finally awake, peered up at the captain, shaking his head. Humans!

Peter bit his lower lip before the next words came out in a rush: "Pleasedon'tmakemegoaway!"

Hook's belly clenched. Peter had misunderstood! He feared that he – James Hook – didn't want him anymore! Utter rubbish! He quickly pulled the boy into a warm comforting embrace. Peter let go off Wendy's hand and flung both arms around the tall man. Laying his cheek against the boy's head, James murmured: "Peter, I don't want to send you away. Never! I want you to stay – to be my son and to enjoy the rest of your childhood like a normal boy. I only worry that your latest injury will haunt you! This wouldn't happen if you returned to Neverland."

"Where I would forget everything again," Peter mumbled into the captain's chest, voicing Hook's own worries. "The things I learned here in London, what you said, what I saw, what I learned, who the people are on this picture I got … and someday I would even forget you and Wendy – and Cora. And if I ever did remember, I might come back and you two might be gone. Like my mother." He shook his head. "No, I won't do it. The fairies tricked me once, I won't let them do it again." He pulled back, looking up at Hook, his face took on an unfamiliar sobriety: "I once heard Great Big Little Panther tell a young Brave that our life is told in our scars – our mistakes," he touched Hook's right arm, "our defeats and triumphs" – he touched his the long-healed wound on his chest – "our enemies and our friends." Here his hand was placed completely over his heart.

Behind him Tink pressed her tiny hands against her mouth while Aurora wrapped an arm around her shoulder, bright tears on her little cheeks. She had feared that it would come to that, but now, as she heard Peter saying all those things, her little heart was about to break. She didn't want to lose him, but she didn't want him to be unhappy. What, in Oberon's name, should she do now? She glanced down at Bumblyn, hoping for some sympathy, but the Hobgoblin only showed a big grin on his round face as he beamed at Wendy and Hook. No help could be expected from there!

James didn't know he was smiling at Peter's declarations. He, Wendy and Peter would be a real family! "You're sure," he said.

A statement, not a question, yet Peter felt the need to affirm: "Yes. Neverland will only get us back as a family."

James heard Tink whimper, and looked up at her. "It seems a talk between you and Niam is in order. You know where to find me when Her Majesty comes to a decision. Until then, Peter stays here – and we will try to make a real family. And if he likes life here more than Neverland, then we'll stay permanently." He glared at the fairy, daring her to say anything to the contrary. But Tinker Bell only nodded, realizing defeat. Hook again held and comforted his weary son.

Wendy then wrapped her arms around boy and man. She looked into the blue, blue eyes as Hook smiled at her and carefully freed his right arm and set it around his beloved's shoulders. Rising on tiptoes, her lips met his in a brief kiss above Peter's head. They were already a family.

Peter sighed again, this time grinning, eyes closed. He was quite shaken after his brush with death (which he would never admit.) And the familiar scent of tobacco, sea and James himself along with the scent of roses (which Wendy seemed to be made of) now reassured him. Here he was safe, secure, cradled in the arms of the two he loved.

Hook felt Peter relax, but he also felt how chill the boy was. 'Blood-loss, shock and stress – too much for any boy,' James thought. "Victoria, I want him to lie down somewhere quiet," he said. "With your permission, of course."

The redhead nodded and rose. "Of course, Captain. I'll ask Olivia for a usable guest room."

"Any chance the second room to the left in the east wing is open?" he asked. "It was my room when I was a boy."

She replied quietly: "The larger one with desk and seating area? I'll ask Olivia if it's ready. She can make the bed and light the fire." Moving to the door, she gently touched Wendy's arm and left. It was clear that she felt guilty for what had taken place here, in her own uncle's home.

Millicent was assessing the captain, the youth and her niece, murmuring beneath her breath: "Wendy is far too young to raise an older boy." That was exactly what went through her brother's and sister-in-law's mind, too, but this was not the place or the time to discuss this particular topic. Other matters were more urgent.

Cora Bailey now spoke, clearing her throat. "You wish to adopt Peter, Captain?" she asked.

" 'Adopt' him? It seems I already have. And since we arrived in London, no one outside of this house has known him as anything other than my son," James replied. "It's true you're the one who is really related to him, but – don't get me wrong, Ma'am – you're a stranger to him. He's known me for lifetimes, and Wendy was always a mother to him."

"Of course, he belongs to you." Cora smiled. "And, truthfully, I'm very glad about it. He needs younger parents, and I think I would be overwhelmed trying to raise this child." She was chuckling now. "No, Captain, I'm very happy that he is your son." She laughed suddenly, while she went to the sofa to perch on the arm. "And if he wants a grandmother, then I apply for the job."

"Aye, I like that. And 'grandmother' sounds a lot better than grand-niece," Peter muttered into Hook's shirt, eyes still closed. James winked at Cora, then Peter took a deep breath and looked up at Hook; smiling. It was a real little-boy happy-smile-at-bedtime, and James felt his own mouth curling again – especially as the youth gave a mighty yawn.

"Can you walk or shall I carry you to the chair?"

Even recovering from near death, Peter Pan's pride was intact. "I can walk," he stated scornfully, if not energetically. Hook led Peter to his armchair and watched him curl up in it. "Stay here. Soon you can go to bed."

Peter nodded. "And you?"

"There are things the grownups must discuss before I can rest. Dark Owl, the dragon and your fairy-friends will now return to Neverland. We will take a motorcar to the old abbey, open the portal and bid our comrades-in-arms farewell." He patted Peter's cheek, who grimaced. "Don't worry, we won't be long. You're safe here. The hunters and the witch are in the brig, and – even better – she no longer has her magic." He sighed. "That's what Mother Ludlam said and I trust her. I will also ask Nissa to keep her eyes and ears open." He glanced at Wendy. "And our wildcat here will tell you a story. How does that sound?"

Peter sighed wearily. "I don't like letting you have all the fun, but now … I'll take that bed and a story from Wendy." He yawned again and rubbed both eyes with his fists, the actions of a weary little boy.

Tink dropped to his leg and spoke, sounding very unhappy. He sighed. "I know what you want, Tink, but I can't. Like John said, fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice shame on me. That's how I lost my real parents. I always thought … that they didn't love me." He straightened. "I learned different this afternoon." Hook offered his open palm to the fairy who reluctantly moved to him. "Now my best friends want to be my parents," Peter continued. "I got my second chance. Having real parents is my biggest secret wish, and it's about to come true!"

Leaning on Hook's thumb, she jingled again, gesturing to the boys, and then to Peter; her face was a combination of sorrow and confusion. Peter closed his eyes and then shook his head. "I know I always wanted to be a boy and have fun. But when I took Wendy back to London the first time, and saw what a family could be like, I missed it really bad." His glance found Mary and then George Darling, who were surprised to hear that he had been watching. "I saw the one thing I couldn't have: My family."

Tink followed his gaze and remembered how sad her friend had looked in those moments, watching the children being hugged and kissed and playing with the two grownups. She then had distracted him, cheered him up so that he discarded the yearning she had sensed in him. Yet it seemed he never released the idea of having parents. He'd only had pushed the thought into the back of his mind. And now he couldn't turn his back on the prospect any longer. The thought of living a real life had always been a sweet temptation for him, and now he had tasted it. Tinker Bell knew that nothing would bring him back. Peter's next words confirmed it.

The boy was again looking at Wendy and Hook. "When I … lay … out there on the terrace – I had two regrets: Hurting James like I did and never having a mom or dad. But that One you all seem to pray to showed pity on me and gave me that chance. And they aren't strangers, but two people I really care about." He looked back at Tinker Bell and shook his head. "I won't go back. I will become a real boy."

Another pearlescent tear rolled down Tink's cheek, then she chimed again – very softly and hopefully. Peter sighed. "If Niam agrees that Hook and Wendy come with me – and Hook's crew, too if they want – then maybe I'll return to Neverland. Or she can choose the new Pan." He smiled ruefully. "I already gave you my pipe, Tink. Take it with you. It belongs to the fairies. It's up to Niam if I get it back or if a new Pan will stand guard over Neverland." He leaned over her. "And if one of the other boys becomes the new Pan, then you help him like you helped me when I first came to Neverland. Yes, Runner – or one of the other boys – already know the island well, but they'll have to be special to be the Pan. I know they'll need you."

Tink's tears were falling again, and she jingled. Peter blinked in surprise. "You want to stay with me? But … you can talk with Niam the best – better than the others." He glanced at Aurora. "You know this; Tink is my fairy and so she can negotiate for me." The rose-fairy only nodded, smiling. Then Peter saw new tears in Tinker Bell's large eyes said, "I have an idea. You take the pipe back to Neverland and talk to Niam. I have to know her decision. If she doesn't accept my terms, you come back and stay with us. If she agrees, then you come to take us back with you. How does that sound?"

George and Mary were growing apprehensive – their daughter might go back to Neverland if given the chance? They looked at each other and sighed, shrugging. James cleared his throat. "Don't you think that Wendy might have a say in this, too, Peter?"

Peter sat up in the chair and looked at Wendy. "You wouldn't want Tink to stay with us?" he asked, surprised.

Wendy just sighed, gave Hook her special glance – 'Do you have to make him decide just now?' – then knelt down beside the armchair. She had just had an idea. Reaching out, she laid her hand on Peter's arm, looking from him to Tink and back.

"Peter, you know the fairies best, but it might go better if Aurora spoke with Niam instead of Tink." She had James, Tinker Bell and Aurora's full attention. "Niam knows how much Tink loves Peter. She might think that Tink was exaggerating what Mab so long ago. I am guessing that Mab can't tell her mother the full truth, because she probably doesn't even believe that she wronged Peter. But Aurora would be a neutral voice, as would Kailen. If they spoke with Niam, I'm sure she would listen." She smiled at the star fairy. "And if Tink stays here, she can liaison between Peter and the fairies of Kensington Gardens and Neverland. And Peter will still have someone who is familiar with him, because – let's face it – James and I will have a lot to do in the coming weeks and months: Repairs to the ship, our missing passports and documentation, a place for James to live and his men, and I …" she sighed deeply, "… I have to finish school. If Tink is with Peter, he won't be alone."

The fairy (who once considered Wendy a dangerous rival for Peter's affections) beamed at her now, then looked hopefully at Peter. The boy, never one for deep contemplation, considered her words a moment, then nodded. "Sounds good to me," he murmured, hiding the thought that being without Tinker Bell in this transition was a little – just a little! – terrifying. Tink had always been with him since his sojourn in the Gardens, and being without her felt … wrong.

James watched his clever girl closely; now he chuckled. She had silenced all objections before they were voiced. Even Peter was satisfied. He knew Peter did not want to send Tinker Bell away. At present those two were inseparable. Later, if Peter grew up, they might separate of their own accord. Until then everyone around would have to accept the insect as a part of their lives.

He caught Wendy's sidelong glance. "She can stay with us if she wants," he sighed. "She might not be happy here – especially if we live in London, Peter," he added. Then he tilted his head. "She might help you settle in. And we all know how quickly you can get in trouble. Tinker Bell will have to deal with it." He smirked at Peter, who also smiled, then yawned anew.

That moment, the door was opened and Vicky returned with Nissa. "The room you wanted, James, hasn't been used for quite some time. Olivia just made the bed, aired it out and lit the fire." She nodded at Peter. "You can sleep there."

"Thanks," he mumbled. "I don't know why but I'm really tired."

A snort escaped Hook, helping Wendy to her feet while Tinker Bell took the air again. "I can tell you why you're tired, boy. Blood loss, overexertion and emotional turmoil; a trial for anyone, even the great Peter Pan."

Peter made a face. "Don't mock me," he grumbled.

"You wonder why you're tired?" James shook his head. "Pride is a good prop, but you are a master of denial." He squeezed Peter's shoulder gently, taking any bite from his words. Nissa now tugged at his trousers. He lifted a brow toward her. "Yes?"

"The dragonling … not well he is," the Brownie stated quietly. "Not eating anything does he, and cooling down he is. He needs -"

"- his mother, just like another boy we all know," Hook finished and sighed. "Right, let's get to Waverley Abbey and return him to Neverland. And I'm sure our little pranksters and Dark Owl will be glad to be home again."

"Bumblyn stays!" the Hobgoblin inserted quickly. The humans all stared at him, and so he held onto his tail and straightened to his full miniscule height. "Deep friendship to the Wendy-Lady binds me. Help she will need when settling down to make a family. Bumblyn can -"

"No offense, troublemaker, but I think we'll have enough problems without you adding to them, as well as eating us out of house and home," James told him dryly.

Promptly Bumblyn's ears pointed straight upward and his tail whipped from one side to the other, while his fists went to his hips in that determined stance they recognized so well. Bumblyn glared at the man with so much fire in his big eyes that James nearly stepped back. "A Hobgoblin Bumblyn is! Helping in a house and staying true to his friends is what he was born for! And you, MAN, will not hinder me fulfilling my holy duty!"

Hook was searching for a response, but the Brownie again tugging at his trousers made him look down again and growl, "What now?"

Nissa peered up at him and replied with melancholy, "Listen to Bumblyn you should, Master Jamie. Nissa is old – very old – and soon she will answer the river's call and become one with its waters. And who then will watch over you, the lady and the boy – and your own children? Young and a little bit clumsy is Bumblyn, but his heart is as big as Nissa's and just as fierce. And very loyal!"

Hook rubbed his hand over his face. "A fairy, a Hobgoblin, a Brownie, a Klabautermann … bilgewater and devilry, will I ever get rid of you Little People?" Receiving stern gazes from the adults, he looked around and met the piercing glares from two fairies, Nissa, Bumblyn, Wendy and Peter. He raised his eyes in surrender. "All right, all right, sometimes they're an advantage. And sometimes their help is -"

" - needed?" Wendy offered.

" … helpful," James added lamely.

"You really want a … a bogey in your home, Wendy?" Millicent said, quite sceptical. "You'll have a boy already Peter's age, and also a fairy and a bogey, too? What will the neighbours say!"

Wendy gave her aunt one of her sweetest smiles – one James knew was more a challenge. "Aunt, first, I'm accustomed to having Little People around. I love them. And Peter is like another younger brother to me … which I've become quite accustomed to. And second, please remember this. Always: I. Do. Not. Care. What. The. Neighbours. Might. Say! They have their spleen, I have mine. If everyone would mind their own bloody business, life would be so much smoother!" She cocked her head. "Truly, Aunt Millicent, you should realize, most people don't even recognize a Hobgoblin or a fairy, even when they dance in front of their noses. You have to see them with your heart and believe in them to become aware of them." She linked her arm with Hook's and gave him a real smile. "And I'm sure you don't object to them being around as much as you pretend."

"Even if they walk on my last nerve," Hook sighed and grimaced. Nissa and Bumblyn pointedly ignored him. "But you're right, my love. Sometimes these little nuisances are useful – especially when they give you a hand," he added, remembering Nissa's tricking of his royal pursuers. And he was sure that the Brownie's assistance would be further needed again.

James Hook had no idea how soon that would happen.

* PP * PP *

It was dark. It was cold. Only a light above him revealed his surroundings – though he had no idea where he was going or why. The air around him was full of white sprinkles, collecting on the ground, even colder to the touch than the air around him. There was a name for it, when air moved? Wind? That seemed right. And these wide areas and tall poles nearby … fields … woods. They smelled (funny) – he had no word for it.

On and on he walked, a broad path. Hm, there was a word for such paths? Street, right? Everything was so confusing, but at least he was not alone. There were tiny little green people around him which giggled and grinned at him. Sometimes they pulled at his hair or clothes, but they didn't hurt him, and they were better than nobody.

He walked and walked. Finally left the street and continued over those… meadows… fields… He raised his eyes and saw in the distance large structures standing on a wide meadow. High and low walls, arches, something with a roof … then a rushing sound and beside the rough road something shimmered in the light from above – a glistening path that wound through the fields around the meadow where the structures stood. He stopped and listened to the gurgling and splashing, knowing somehow that this was called water. It was … soothing.

As if pulled by invisible strings, he headed to the water, reaching the moving strip of water that lay below where he stood. The sounds were alluring, and smiling, he sat on his heels to watch the water's movements.

He was surprised when little white lights suddenly rose into the air from the other shore. They gleamed and shone like sparks, darting and wavering, and as they drew nearer, he saw that they were very tiny beings. They flew around him but every time he reached for one, they avoided his grasp. Now the little green people who had accompanied him snickered, talked with the smaller white creatures. Their high-sweet voices sounded in his ears, but sweet as they sounded, their words were wicked.

Viscount Dalton Ashford sat down and began to giggle in delight. This all looked so … nice.

"Little white lights," he whispered, "little white lights everywhere … little white lights …"

And the will-o'-the-wisps and pixies continued to dance around him; avenging their fallen brothers, sisters and other Little People, and the kidnapping of the Pan driving the human further into his insanity …

TBC…

Yes, everyone gets somehow a second chance: Mother Ludlam as soon as Hook hands her over her cauldron, Peter got a second chance to have a real family, Hook is having a second chance to find happiness with his storyteller and his 'son', Bumblyn found a household to serve in, Nissa can take care of 'Master Jamie' again… Yet there are still some loose strands within the story which have to find together. Soon, dear readers, soon.

In the next chapter, another one gets a second chance, namely Mr. Russell who is about to become a merman, there will be some cozy minutes for the new founded 'family' around Peter and then the men will drive to Waverley Abbey, taking all those with them who want or have to return to Neverland…

I hope, you liked the new chapter, too, and I'm really curious what you think about everything so far, so please (!) leave some reviews / comments.

Have a nice start into the next week,

Love

Yours Starflight / Lywhn