Home Is Where the Heart Is

Title: Home Is Where the Heart Is

Summary: After the rebuilding of the kingdom in the Enchanted Forest, Hook turns to Regina with a desperate plan to rid himself of his heartache. This sets off a chain of events that will either unite the kingdom, or destroy it and its people utterly.

Disclaimer: I own nothing, just the DVDs.

Pairings: Killian/Emma/Neal (love triangle), Snow/Charming, Rumple/Belle, Regina/Robin Hood, Ruby/Dr. Whale, some other minor ones that you will never have thought of.

Warnings: Drama, romance, angst, character death, all of the awesomeness that comes with a Once Upon a Time story.

Winter-Rae: Greetings Once Upon a Time fans! Well what can I say; I am a total Emma/Killian fangirl, so when this idea climbed into my head I knew I had to get it down. So read on, enjoy, and let me know what you think. But please go easy on me. It's been a while since I have posted anything, so I may be a little rusty. But, I'm going to do my best to write you all an entertaining story! Cheers dearies!

Prologue

And so the final fight was won, Henry was returned to them, safe and happy to be reunited with the people who loved him.

Neal was alive, he and Emma reunited.

The poison coursing through David's veins was cured by healing waters.

The prophecy of the Dark One came to pass; resulting in the down fall of the Dark One, but not Rumplestiltskin himself.

The Jolly Roger, enchanted by a great power, followed a secret map in order to return to Storybrooke.

Upon the heroes return, they discover that Anton found a way to plant another crop of magic beans.

Everyone could now return to their true homes.

However, all is not at peace in the Enchanted Forest. Homes, lands and palaces must be rebuilt. The Ogres have returned, bringing with them more powerful and dangerous allies, threatening to attack the kingdoms.

While this is a time of unease, hope remains and so does love.

It seemed that everyone was finally having a chance to find their happy ending, well, almost everyone.

And thus, our scene is set, the pieces are moving, the journey is about to begin dearies.

Chapter One: Wasted on You

Emma Swan frowned as she looked at her reflection in the large mirror. She wasn't even sure that she really recognized the woman staring back at her. Her hair was in waves around her face and she wore a cream-coloured evening gown with shoes that pinched her feet terribly. She turned to face her mother, Snow White, who was observing her with a proud smile.

"Are you sure this is the best idea?"

"Of course, why wouldn't it be?" Snow replied as she moved to her daughter's side. She too was dressed up for the evening, in a white dress with a silver shawl that wrapped around her shoulders. A delicate tiara was perched on her head, showing her position as a royal. She had tried to convince Emma to wear hers as well, but Emma flat out refused; sure she might technically be a princess but she certainly didn't feel like one.

"I don't know," Emma confessed with a shrug, "I guess I think that having a huge party just doesn't seem like a great idea to me. I mean aren't there other things we could be doing?"

"Emma, the whole kingdom will want to celebrate you being engaged," Snow explained, "Not only that but letting our people see that there is still love and happiness to be found, it will give them hope. We might have restored our lands but things are far from perfect."

Emma arched an eyebrow and crossed her arms over her chest, waiting for her mother to elaborate. Snow White, however, wasn't budging.

"Care to be more specific?" she asked.

"It's nothing for you to worry about," Snow replied, "Your father is handling things, try not to worry, this is your special night. But if you start to feel like you're suffocating, let me know. I used to hate these things too, and I know every excuse in the book."

Emma sighed and looked at herself in the mirror once again, "I just don't want to be the center of attention like this. Not only that, but broadcasting this engagement to everyone is making me freak out a little. Can't we just keep it between us for now?"

"Are you having second thoughts?" Snow asked, a serious tone forming in her voice. Emma fell silent, refusing to give her mother an answer. Was she having second thoughts about her fiancée; Neal Cassidy? She wasn't sure. She knew that there was a part of her that loved Neal, and how could there not be, he gave her Henry; her precious son who she loved more than anything.

However, there was another face that would sometimes fill her mind in the quite hours. This face had blue eyes, dark hair and a confident smirk that would send most women swooning.

"No," she replied quickly, shaking her head to get her thoughts back on the task at hand, "Let's just get this over with, I'm guessing that people are already starting to arrive."

Snow placed a hand on her daughter's shoulder, "Hey, this is your choice; don't let anything or anyone make it but you. If you need to talk, your father and I are always here."

Emma smiled, "I know, and thank you."

"Anytime."

Meanwhile, in the marketplace close to the palace, in a tavern called The Three Arrows; a small cricket was hovering and keeping an eye out for his target. When he spotted said man in a quiet corner he flew over to him and cleared his throat to get his attention, "Drunk again Captain?"

Killian Jones, better known as Captain Hook, glanced up from his bottle of rum and frowned. A small cricket, in a suit, was hovering in front of his face with its little arms crossed over its little chest. He tried to wave it away, thinking that maybe he did have a little too much to drink, when the cricket suddenly transformed into a fully grown man. This grown man had red hair, glasses, and a very disappointed frown on his face.

"Bloody hell!" Hook shouted, nearly falling out of his chair and onto the floor, "You want to warn me before you do that next time mate."

"Sorry, I'm still getting used to being able to do it at all," Archie Hopper replied, "On the plus side; I am getting better at it. At least this time my clothes came with me."

He took a seat across from the moody pirate. Hook offered him the bottle which Archie took and then proceeded to empty it onto the floor.

"Well, that was a wicked waste," Hook grumbled, "You owe me another bottle."

"I was sent by the King to come and find you," Archie reported, "Will you please come back with me to the palace?"

"And what, pray tell, does the David want with me?"

"He said it was important, but that was about it."

Hook scoffed and waved him away, then signalled to the tavern owner that he wanted another bottle. Archie sighed patiently and waited as Hook downed half of the new bottle before he would acknowledge him again, "Fine, lead on cricket."

Hook paid for his drinks and followed after Archie who was regarding him with concern.

"What?" Hook asked.

"Would you like to talk about it?"

"Talk about what?"

"Whatever it is that's bothering you."

"What makes you think that there is anything bothering me?"

"Hmm, let's go through the list, shall we?" Archie mused, "You spend every free moment of your time in one tavern or another, getting completely drunk, and then stumbling back to the docks; sometimes making it to the Jolly Roger, but most other times you end up in a ditch. Oh, and I'm a conscience, I know things. Shall I go on?"

"Are you following me?" Hook asked, "You fancy me or something? Because no offence mate, I'm not nearly drunk enough for that."

Archie didn't even bother to dignify that with a response. Still, he was starting to regret volunteering to hunt the pirate down. This was a task better suited to Grumpy. If Hook refused him, the dwarf would have probably knocked him out and dragged him back. An interesting idea, he might have to consider it if Hook wouldn't cooperate. But for now, he preferred a more peaceful approach to dealing with him.

"People are worried about you."

Hook let out a harsh laugh.

"Well, you let them know that the pirate can handle his rum just fine thanks."

"Maybe I was to general when I said 'people,' I should have said that Emma is worried."

That seemed to give Hook pause for a moment. Archie hoped it meant that he was ready to talk, but then…

"So what, she can't come here and tell me that herself eh? Has to send you to do her dirty work for her? But I guess I shouldn't be surprised, it's not like a princess can be seen with a pirate. And goodness knows that I'm not exactly 'savoury' company."

Archie grabbed his arm a pulled him along, not stopping or speaking to the pirate until they were back onboard the Jolly Roger. Hook, who had yet to find a new crew, did not protest to being dragged back to his ship, hopefully this meant that the cricket was sent to make sure he slept off his current state. That was actually sounding like a great idea right about now.

"Listen up Hook," Archie barked, "I didn't have to come to get you; I did this as a favour to the King. He needs your help with a matter of huge importance."

Hook arched an eyebrow, "Sounds to me like he told you a little more than you let on."

"He did, he's asked that you come to the celebrations tonight, where he will tell you the rest of what you need to know," Archie quickly explained, "Now, can I tell him you'll be there?"

Hook hesitated, ever since they had returned to the Enchanted Forest he had done everything in his power to avoid going to the palace. However, he did need to speak to David about an issue that had been on his mind for some time, maybe this was just the excuse he needed.

"I'll be there," Hook said.

"Excellent, Henry will be happy to see you; he's told me how much he loves your stories."

"Aye, but what are these celebrations for anyway?"

"Oh, you didn't hear? Neal and Emma are engaged."

After hearing those words Hook felt his world shift, and it wasn't the after effects of the rum either. He set the bottle down and placed a hand on the railing of his ship in order to steady himself, "Engaged? As in, they are going to be married?"

Archie nodded, "Yes, I thought you knew."

"No, I'm not involved with whatever plans go on in the palace," Hook replied, "Tell the King I will be there to meet with him, but he better not expect me to stay any longer."

"I doubt he will, see you this evening Hook."

With that said; Archie reverted back to his cricket form and flew back towards the palace. Hook glanced at the bottle on the railing, then he grabbed it and in a blind rage he hurled it as hard as he could; the bottle smashed against the dock, shattering into pieces.

'I know what that's like,' Hook thought to himself as he stumbled to his cabin, maybe an hour of sleep would ease his troubled mind. He knew it wouldn't, but one could always hope.

Later on that evening, Regina stood on the sidelines, watching as the guests danced across the ballroom. She hated these gatherings, mostly because she was annoyed with the fake smiles that people kept offering to her as they passed by. She could sense their fear and unease around her, it seemed that no matter how much good she did, she could never shake the persona she used to possess; the Evil Queen.

"Now, what can I do to make the most beautiful woman in the world smile for me?"

The words were all she needed for a smile to form on her lips. Regina turned to see her new found love, Robin Hood, grinning mischievously at her.

When they all had returned to the Enchanted Forest, Tinkerbell had offered to help her track down the man with the lion tattoo. Apparently he was working for the Merry Men; a group of warriors that Robin Hood led. Not that they were hard to find as Robin Hood had been seeking them out as well, hoping to broker a trade agreement with David and Snow White, in order to take better care of his people.

The meeting had been, dramatic to say the least.

"Well now, what do we have here; the Evil Queen and a fairy? It's not often we get such interesting visitors. What can we do for you ladies on this fine day?"

Regina tensed at the mention of her old self and glared at the man who accused her; he was tall and handsome, with bright blue eyes and a devilish smirk. He clutched a longsword in one hand while a quiver of arrows and his bow were slung across his back. Tinkerbell, who had just recently gained her wings back, hid behind Regina, who held out her arm to protect her.

"Evil no longer," Regina replied, "I don't expect you to believe that, but it is the truth. We're searching for Robin Hood; can any of you tell us where to find him?"

The man sheathed his sword and approached the two women, circling them, and still smirking.

"What could you possibly want with Robin Hood?" he asked.

"King David and Queen Snow White sent us," Regina explained, the sight of all of these arrows trained on her were making her nervous, "We were told he wished to negotiate with them."

"So, you're the negotiators?" the man scoffed, "Doesn't really inspire much confidence."

"I volunteered."

"Why?"

"I'm looking for someone, not that it's any of your business."

Regina felt her annoyance for the man growing. He however, looked amused, and continued to banter with her, "Aren't we all looking for someone in the end my lady? Whoever you are looking for, I consider him either the luckiest or unluckiest man in the world."

"How so?"

"Well, I knew the queen was supposed to be beautiful, but the stories don't do you justice," he mused, "But I also know that when you're hunting for someone, they sometimes end up dead."

"I told you, I'm not that woman anymore," Regina insisted, "I have a son, and I want him to be proud of me. Please, tell Robin Hood that the King and Queen are happy to meet with him."

The man's face softened at the mention of her son, "I have a son as well, very well, I'll return with you ladies to meet the King and Queen, I am Robin Hood."

He offered her his hand, and when she took it she caught a glimpse of a lion tattoo on his arm. She exchanged a subtle look with Tinkerbell, who was absolutely beaming with joy; Regina had just found the man that she was meant for.

While it had taken some time for Robin to admit his affection for her, he was now just as in love with her, as she was with him. True, there were times when they were separated, due to his responsibilities to his people, but they treasured every moment together. Regina was also learning to love little Roland, Robin's young son. He was a rambunctious 4 year old who loved to run and play and have make-believe adventures about slaying dragons.

Right now he was running around with Henry and some of the other children while the adults danced, ate and exchanged small talk.

"Are you as bored with this crowd as I am?" Robin asked, wrapping his arm around her waist.

"You have no idea."

"I have to speak with the King and then get Roland to bed, but after that, I would love to come and spend some time with you."

Regina gazed up at him, searching his eyes for why David would want to speak with him. Robin however, was very good at keeping secrets, and she could see nothing that might give her a clue as to what was going on. Robin, knowing full well what she was doing, closed the distance between them and kissed her lips lightly.

"Don't worry so much Stars," he whispered, "I will see you soon."

'Stars' had been the nickname he had given Regina soon after they had met. According to Robin someone had stolen two stars from the sky and placed them in her eyes, as a treasure for him.

Robin kissed her cheek and then walked off and gathered Roland in his arms, who giggled in delight and waved to Regina. She smiled at the little boy and returned the gesture, feeling thankful that she had been given another chance to love and care for someone.

Hook was brooding in the far corner of the ballroom, observing the happy individuals. He was just about to question why he even bothered to come here when someone came and stood next to him. He recognized the man as Dr. Whale; he was the man who assisted with his recovery after he had been hit by a car in Storybrooke. The man looked slightly out of place here, but he seemed to be in good spirits, no doubt to whatever it was that he was drinking.

"Hook."

"Doctor."

"Please, it's just Victor now," he replied, handing Hook a goblet, "Ever since coming here I find that magic and potions are used in the healing process."

"Not on a pirate ship," Hook replied, taking a long drink, "We didn't always have access to magic out on the sea; we always had a medic aboard."

"Well, if you ever think of sailing off somewhere, do let me know," Victor replied, "I could do with a change of scenery, this place is far too bright and colourful for my tastes."

Hook had to grin at that, he knew that Dr. Whale wasn't from the Enchanted Forest, something Snow had mentioned to him at some point.

"Where are you from anyway?"

Victor chuckled, "Rumplestiltskin tells me that he called it, 'The Land Without Colour.'"

"Ah, very dramatic," Hook mused, "I would have thought you'd be back there by now. I thought that the giant grew enough magic beans for people to come and go as they please?"

"The beans are supposed to be used in an emergency," Victor quoted, "Not that it matters, they did give me one to return home with, but…there is nothing waiting for me back there. Nothing but more failure anyway, so when I was offered a place to stay…I decided to take it."

"What's her name?" Hook asked, smirking. Victor frowned at him, but that did not stop the faint blush that was creeping up his neck. He gazed across the room to where Ruby was standing with Emma and Snow; the three of them were discussing something that was apparently amusing as they were all smiling. Hook nodded and patted Victor on the back, "She's a beauty, and if I remember correctly; she had fantastic legs as well."

"Oh you have no idea," Victor mused.

"Gentlemen!"

Hook tensed as the newcomer threw an arm around his shoulder, and the other around Victor's. He had unruly brown hair and bright blue eyes. The doctor frowned and tried to shrug him off, "What do you want Jefferson?"

"What do I want? Well, let's see here, a good tailor for one, I mean say what you will about the land without magic; but they had fabulous clothes."

"Who is this?" Hook growled using his hook to jab Jefferson's hand, making the man wince and pull away; rubbing at the mark. Jefferson did an over exaggerated flourish and bow as he introduced himself, "Jefferson's the name and mad hatting is the game."

Hook arched a confused eyebrow and looked over at Victor for help.

"Don't bother; the more you try to understand him, the more likely you are to go insane."

"Well, that hurts Doctor," Jefferson pouted, "After all the fun times we went through?"

"What do you want?" Victor demanded, his patience wearing thin. Jefferson chuckled, "We've been summoned by his Majesty, after his little announcement." Jefferson nodded towards the center of the room where David stood with the rest of his family. Emma stood next to him with Henry in front of her and Neal on her other side; his arm around her waist. Hook's grip on his goblet tightened as Emma's gaze settled on him. He could see her tense, and see an apologetic look fill her face; he had seen that look a few times before. It always happened right before she hurt him in some way; the first time was up on that beanstalk, then again in Neverland when she told him that she couldn't be with him.

Now, there is was again.

"Ladies and gentlemen, I thank you all for coming," David spoke, "This is a time for celebration. We've all found our way home. Hope still exists here, and so does love. So, it's with great pleasure that I announce that my daughter, Emma, is engaged to Neal Cassidy!"

A round of cheers and applause went up and Hook felt his heart twist, he didn't know that they had planned on announcing it to the entire realm. Emma continued to stare at him, until Belle approached her and hugged her, offering congratulations.

"Where's that damn meeting?" Hook growled. Jefferson and Victor exchanged uneasy looks and then motioned for him to follow them. Hook knew that if he stayed in this room any longer that he couldn't be held responsible for his actions. He felt hurt, angry and betrayed; why couldn't she have had the courage to tell him this herself? Didn't he deserve that much?

'You're a pirate mate, a villain,' he reminded himself, 'And they don't get happy endings.'

After the announcement, David quickly left the ballroom and hurried down the corridor to the council chambers. This had been where he and his council would prepare for their battles with Regina and her allies. While it was going to be used for the same thing, now they had different and possibly worse enemies to deal with.

He had opted for only a handful of people to start with; he had to lay down the ground work to secure allies before any major battles plans could be worked out. Not only that, but their enemies hadn't fully revealed themselves yet, so he had little information that he could go on. Hopefully the people he asked to meet him would have other ideas to add to his own.

Everyone had arrived before him and they were all sitting at the round table in the center of the room. Rumplestiltskin, Mulan, Robin Hood, Captain Hook, Prince Thomas, Prince Philip, Jefferson and Dr. Whale all stared at him, waiting for him to reveal why they were gathered.

"I'm glad you all could make it," David started.

"I suppose congratulations are in order," Victor mused, "You're getting a son-in-law."

David nodded, "That will have to wait, for now, we have bigger worries."

"Ah, and so the plot thickens, I do so love it when that happens," Jefferson grinned, rubbing his hands together in excitement.

David threw him a look that told him to be quiet, the Mad Hatter held up his hands in mock surrender and fell silent, a smirk still on his face. David took a seat and looked around the table at the people who had gathered; some were warriors, others powerful wielders of magic, and a few were subtle in the ways of planning. Hopefully with them, they could pull this off.

"When we returned here, we knew that getting everything back to normal was going to take time," he started, "The ogres have returned, and true they have left us alone, I think it's because they were waiting until they had enough numbers to challenge us. Not only that, but there have been rumors of more sinister creature lurking about."

"There have been dragon sightings along the border of the Emperor's land," Mulan explained after David nodded towards her, "So far they have stayed in the mountains but there have been more earthquakes and other signs that tell us that they will not stay there for long."

"The werewolves have been growing in numbers as well," Rumplestiltskin offered.

"How do you know that?" Prince Thomas asked.

"Take a walk in the moonlight when the moon is full dearie," Rumple replied, "The howls that you hear won't be regular wolves; I assure you."

"I've heard talk from some sailors that there have been a lot of unexplained drowning going on as well," Hook pointed out, "I hadn't given it much thought, but hearing all of this, makes me think that a few sirens have gotten together to form a shiver."

"A shiver?" Prince Philip asked.

"Sirens, as a rule, prefer to be alone," Hook explained, "Unless there is a mutual goal for them to achieve they never get together. When three or more of them get together it's called a shiver, and certain death to anyone who happens to close. Sounds like you've got your hands full mate."

David nodded, he was in complete agreement, "This is why you're all here, we need allies, or ideas on how to stop this before it gets worse. Not only that, but we need to find out who might be causing this. There must be a leader that they're following."

"What do you need from us?" Robin asked.

"Robin, Hook, I need the two of you to gather the Merry Men and any other allies that can be found at the various sea ports."

"Sounds like you want us to build an Armada," Hook mused.

"Something like that, think you can handle it?" David asked, grinning at him. Hook couldn't help but return the gesture, David knew of his past; which was exactly why he chose him for this.

"Oh have no worries, but I'll need a medic aboard my ship."

He motioned his hand towards Victor, who looked pleased with at the idea that he might be able to work again. David paused for a moment, but in the end he agreed.

"Mulan, will the Emperor be able to send us aid?"

"I don't see why not," she mused, "But his armies may be too preoccupied with the dragons."

"Find out what you can, and report back as soon as possible. If he needs our aid we will gladly do what we can, we're all in this together now."

Mulan bowed and hurried off.

"My armies will be ready to stand with her allies," Prince Thomas spoke up, and Prince Philip nodded in agreement, "Just send us word, we will continue to gather allies and supplies. We'll also work to keep the trading routes open."

"My men won't give you any trouble," Robin offered, "I'll send the word out tonight."

The two Princes gave Robin their thanks and then took their leave as well. David then turned to the former Dark One, "Rumplestiltskin, I know your powers aren't what they used to be…but do you have anything at all that might give us an edge? Or any idea as to who is behind this?"

"No idea dearie, but I'll be working with Regina to create more protection spells for the kingdoms," he replied, "I might have given up the Dark One's power, but I still have more than a few tricks up my sleeve, and a great many favours that I can call in."

He was the next one to leave, which meant that David turned to Jefferson next. The Mad Hatter arched a curious eyebrow, "If you expect me to use my hat to bring us allies, I think you'll find that not exactly possible anymore. My hat was destroyed; and good riddance if you ask me."

"I was actually hoping you would work with the dwarves," David replied, "They're working on adding escape tunnels throughout the kingdom, in case of emergencies. You seem to be pretty good at eluding capture; maybe you could give them some tips."

Jefferson chuckled, "I will work wherever his Majesty wishes to put me. Fair you well gentlemen, do try not to fall prey to a Siren, I hear it's a nasty experience."

"Okay, that's about it then," David mused, "Hook, can you Robin and Victor be ready to leave in the morning?"

"Aye, gathering a crew shouldn't be too difficult," Hook mused.

"Good, get to it."

Hook stayed behind and watched Robin and Victor exit the room, he then approached David who wasn't looking like he wanted to talk.

"I'm calling in a favour from you mate," Hook said.

"I'm sorry, a what?"

"A favour, you owe me," the pirate went on, "I seem to remember saving not only your life, but the life of your little family as well."

David arched an eyebrow, "Name it, if it's in my power it's all yours."

Hook was surprised at how easy that was, he half expected David to toss him out of the room.

"Very well, I want the freedom to come and go from here and any other port in the area as I please, no questions asked," he said, "No guards searching my ship, no one trying to arrest me for being a pirate, complete and utter freedom."

"If you're planning on stealing from my people, then no," David replied, crossing his arms over his chest, "I may hold you in high regard Hook but my people, and my family come first."

"If you held me in high regard you wouldn't have assumed I planned on hurting anyone," Hook shot back, "If you want me to help build an Armada, I need the freedom to do it my way."

David stared at him for a few tense moments; he then sighed and relented, "Alright Hook, you've got your freedom. And thank you for the help."

"Don't thank me yet mate, I haven't done anything," the pirate pointed out, "Now if you excuse me, I have to call in a favour from a certain former queen."

David watched him leave, briefly wondering what that encounter was all about.

Regina closed the door to her chambers, thankful to be away from the noise of the celebrations. While she knew about the engagement, she wasn't sure why Snow and David decided to announce it to the whole kingdom, unless something else was going on and they were trying to hide it. She made a mental note to ask Robin about it when he arrived.

"Hello Regina."

She whipped around and frowned when she saw the uninvited visitor. Hook was leaning against the railing of her balcony looking up at the night sky. His posture suggested that he was exhausted, as his shoulders were sagging and his head hung low. Regina had seen this posture a hundred times during her time as the Evil Queen; this was what a defeated and desperate man looked like.

She frowned; it was not an appearance that suited the man.

"What brings you here Hook?" she asked, lighting a few lanterns with a wave of her hand.

"I'm calling in a favour."

Regina let out a laugh, "Since when do I owe you anything?"

"Since I became your guide on Neverland, since I helped to save not only your son, but the lives of all of our travelling companions," he snapped, "Not to mention it was my ship that got us there and back again. So, all of those things considered, yes; you owe me."

An arched eyebrow on her face greeted him when he turned to finally face her; showing her the desperate and defeated face to match his posture. There were dark rings were under his eyes, which made their luster fade from the usual bright blue to dull grey. A pained expression haunted his usually handsome face and lines, making him appear much older, had started to develop.

"You look awful," she pointed out, "but I suppose you have a point, I do owe you for saving my life and Henry's. Is there something specific that you want?"

"You're not going to like it," he muttered darkly. Regina crossed her arms over her chest and began to cross the room; her dark brown eyes observing him, trying to discern what he could possibly want from her. When she started to circle him, she could feel him tense, his guard was up and ready for a fight; even though she had no reason to harm him. He was bracing himself, waiting for her to say no and tell him to get out. This told her that she was not the first magic user that he had gone too for this favour.

"I'll hear you out," she said, "But don't get your hopes up. If Rumplestiltskin wasn't willing to give you what you wanted I doubt that I'll be much more inclined."

"I wouldn't go to him if my very life depended on it," he growled, "I spoke to Tinkerbell, Nova and even the Blue Fairy. None of them were willing to help me."

"Why not?" she asked, moving towards table in the center of the room; there was food and wine sitting on it, which had been brought up by some of the workers in the castle. She was still getting used to living in a castle again, they all were; especially Emma, Henry and Neal. None of them had even set foot in a palace before, so this was a grand lifestyle that none of them really knew what to do with.

But they were learning, and by learning that meant they snuck out any chance they got. Emma was learning about her people, Henry was having small adventures of his own, and Neal was reacquainting himself with his old home.

Regina filled up two goblets and handed one to Hook. He downed the entire thing and then filled it again, breathing deeply after he finished, and resting his hand on the table to steady himself.

"Tinkerbell is still on thin ice with Blue, so she wasn't willing to risk getting into trouble again, even for me. I suppose I can't really blame her, she was so excited to get her wings back."

"Hmm, it seems that winning smile of yours is losing its charm," Regina pointed out, a small smirk forming on her lips. A glare from the surly pirate chased it away however and she motioned with her hand for him to continue.

"Nova tried to convince me that my choice was foolish, that running away from my current state was not going to help me," he went on, "What does she know about this? Nothing!"

He slammed his first on the table, making Regina jump and nearly spill her wine.

"And Blue?"

"She said that if I spoke if it again that she would go to Snow White and David."

Regina had to admit, she was curious about what Hook's request could possibly be. Although she could already assume that it was going to be a form of dark magic, considering fairies rarely miss an opportunity to help someone with good intentions. Of course, she would have to refuse him as well, knowing this. She hadn't used magic for dark purposes ever since returning to the Enchanted Forest, at the request of Henry.

"Well, I'm sorry to disappoint you Hook," she started, "But…"

"Let me finish, please," Hook begged, looking up at her. While his eyes didn't carry the same luster, they looked genuinely devastated, so much so that she found herself asking him to continue. He looked a little more relieved and went on.

"I want you to take my heart."

This time, Regina did drop her wine, spilling the red liquid all over the floor as the glass goblet shattered. She took a step back from the pirate, who was gazing at her with imploring eyes.

"What! Are you insane? No, you can't ask me this, not a chance."

"I'm begging you!" Hook insisted, crossing over to her and grabbing her arm to place her hand on his chest; right over his beating heart, "Take it from me."

Regina pulled away and shoved him back. She then began to pace the room, wondering what in all the realms would possess Hook to ask her to do this to him. To take a person's heart was to destroy them utterly. Sure she had done in plenty of times in the past, but that was then, and she was a different person now. She had Robin and little Roland to look after now, not to mention Henry and the responsibilities that she had been trusted with in keeping their home safe.

To go back on all of her progress just because Hook had decided now, of all times, to call in a favour; was foolishness. She looked up at him, her eyes meeting his. She searched them, trying to understand what drove him to such a low. But his eyes revealed nothing, at least not to her.

"Why?" she demanded.

"That is my business," he replied, shaking his head.

"If I'm even going to consider this I need to know why," she snapped, "Do you realize what I would be sacrificing if anyone ever found out about this? What would Robin say? And Henry? Not to mention Emma and her parents; who are now the King and Queen of this kingdom!"

"Since when do you care about what Emma and her parents think of you?" he goaded her.

And then, she knew. She knew exactly why Hook had come to her.

"This is about Emma isn't it?" she asked, taking a step towards him. Now Hook was on the defensive, he turned away from her and returned to the balcony.

"I'm right aren't I; this is about Emma and Neal's engagement."

"Be quiet," he growled.

"Oh, what's the matter Hook?" Regina taunted, "Can't stand the fact that she picked him over you? Personally I think she made the best choice. I for one wouldn't want you raising my son."

"Shut up!" he yelled at her, raising his hand as if to strike her. Regina didn't even flinch, knowing full well that Hook wouldn't dare to hit her. She was right; he lowered his arm and took a few deep breaths to calm himself.

"I'm sorry, I just can't deal with this ache anymore," he confessed, "It's always there, nothing eases it, no matter what I do. I need it to be gone. The ache I felt after Milah died was bad enough, but this, it's just festering in my heart and it makes everything a thousand times worse. I'm begging you Regina, if you have any humanity, you'll do me this one kindness."

"Kindness!" Regina shouted, "This is not a kindness Hook. You won't be able to feel anything. Your emotions will be gone; you'll be nothing but an empty shell. Is that really what you want?"

"More than anything," he replied.

The former queen heaved a sigh and rested her hands on the balcony railing; now she had the same defeated posture he possessed. She looked into his eyes and saw nothing but hurt in them and she could understand why. Back on Neverland Hook and Emma had become very close, nothing intimate, but they had shared a few intense stares and more than one passionate kiss. She was convinced that when they returned to Storybrooke that they would start a relationship.

However, that all changed when Neal returned to them. Not dead, but alive and well. He had ended up in the Enchanted Forest where some of the inhabitants had helped him heal and get to them in Neverland. Regina had seen the shock in Emma's eyes and pain in Hook's. He had been convinced that Emma was letting her walls down for him, only for them to be snapped right back up for Neal.

After that, Emma was cold towards Hook, pushing him away at every opportunity. Regina could see that Hook hadn't forgiven her for that, and it was adding to the ache he was already feeling. It was obvious to Regina that Hook was in love with Emma. It was obvious to most anyone, except for the person that it would impact the most.

"I need an answer," Hook said suddenly, forcing her from her thoughts.

"I can't do this for you Hook," she muttered, turning away from him and retreating towards the fireplace. A sudden chill had come upon her, if he continued to press her for this, she was going to give in and she knew it.

"I'll never ask anything of you ever again, I swear it, just do this one thing for me."

"Like I said before, what if the others find out?" Regina shouted at him, "I'll be back to being the Evil Queen, not someone that can be depended on to help the kingdom. I'm not wasting the second chance I've been given to start over again on you"

Hook's eyes misted over and he placed his hand over his heart, "If you could feel what I'm feeling right now, you wouldn't be so cruel. This won't come back on you, I promise."

Regina scoffed.

"It won't!" Hook insisted, "If they do find out, I will tell them that I asked…that I begged you to do this for me."

"They'll think that I'm using your heart to control your words and your actions," she shot back.

"Not if I give the heart to someone else they won't."

This caught her attention. If someone else had the heart they would be blamed for any negative behaviour he might exhibit. Still, something inside her screamed at her not to do this, but the more she looked at Hook the more she ached for him. There were times in her life when she had wanted to rip out her own heart as well; after she lost Daniel for good, when Henry was taken to Neverland, and even when her mother and father died.

Could this even be considered an evil act when he was freely asking this of her?

"Are you sure this is truly what you want?" she asked softly. Hook sighed.

"Yes."

"Then come with me."

She moved to the bookcase at the far end of her room with Hook following close behind her. She reached out and pulled one of the books, revealing a hidden staircase leading down.

"I see you haven't given up all of your tricks," Hook mused as she lit a torch and started down.

"I was asked to find ways to protect the kingdom," she replied, trying to ignore the chill that had settled over her heart, "Some of those 'ways' require tricks, and secrets. I don't suppose I have to ask you to keep this between us?"

"Your secret is safe with me Regina, so long as you keep my own as well."

"Of course."

It didn't take them long to reach the bottom of the staircase, it lead to a locked door where Regina waved her hand and Hook could hear the various locks unlatching. The door swung open to reveal a large and open room. Against most of the walls were towering books cases filled with books and items that were no doubt used in various spells and enchantments. In the center of the room was a large table littered with vials, tubes and other tools used to mix and brew potions. This looked like a room that the crocodile might enjoy.

The former queen crossed over to one of the shelves and picked up a small box. Hook arched an eyebrow; it was one of the cushioned boxes that usually contained a ripped out heart. Regina noticed his expression and sighed, "I keep it as a reminder of the pain this spell can cause."

Hook crossed his arms over his chest, "Nothing you say will sway me in this, just do it and get it over with so that I can finally move on."

"Removing your heart is not how you move on," Regina argued, "You don't want to do this."

"Have I wasted my time in coming to you?" he asked, anger rising in his strained voice, "Why bring me down here if you're just going to refuse me now? Don't toy with me like this, not when I'm so close to finally having this burden lifted!"

Regina set the wooden box down and stood in front of Hook, her hand poised to remove his heart. She looked down to see that her hand was shaking; never had it shook like this before. Even when Rumplestiltskin had first taught her how to do this, her hand never shook.

But this, it was something else entirely. Hook had been an ally and he had saved her son. Not only that but he have proven himself to be a decent person time and time again. How many times had he saved their lives while they were in Neverland, even risking his life to find a cure for the Dreamshade poison that had nearly killed David? Pirates don't do things like that. Heroes do. And that was exactly what Hook was, a hero, and not only hers, but Henry's too.

"Something wrong?" he asked her.

"Do you know what you are?" she asked him, feeling a lump rise in her throat as she spoke, her voice quivered and tears threatened to spill from her eyes.

"A pirate, a villain, a murderer, a broken man with no hope, and the list goes on," he replied, "I told you, I want this, now do what you came here to do!"

Anger and frustration then flashed in Regina's eyes and her hand shot forward, into his chest, gripping his still beating heart. Hook cried out in pain as his knees buckled, forcing him to the floor. Regina knelt with him, still working the heart out of his chest, tears rolling down her face.

"No," she said softly, "You are none of those things. You; are a hero."

The sickening ripping sound told her that the deed was done and she got to her feet, holding Hook's heart in her hand. The pirate got to his feet and brushed the dust off of his pants. Instantly, he seemed to look better, no not better; different. He smirked and looked at the heart which she was now gently cradling in her hands.

"Hmm, not as dark as I thought it would be," he mused. Regina frowned, certainly the heart had a few darker areas, but for the most part it was the beautiful glowing red that all hearts were.

"How are you feeling?" she asked bitterly, placing the heart into the box and closing the lid. She could hear the feeble beats of the heart, almost like it was protesting to her that this was not where it belonged. She would have to agree.

"Lighter," he replied with a shrug, "I thank you for this Regina."

"Don't thank me," she snapped, "This isn't a favour I've done."

"On the contrary," Hook replied with a chuckle, "I feel like a new man."

She picked up the box and handed it to him, "I can enchant it if you want; to make sure that no one can get at it. I can make the box never open for anyone but you, or add a lock and make a special key."

"While I appreciate the concern for my life, I assure you it's not necessary."

"It will put my mind at ease," she replied, the anxiety in her voice made him roll his eyes, but he decided to comply.

"Very well, make it so that only someone I trust fully can open it," he said. Regina nodded and with a subtle flick of her wrist the box glowed brightly for a moment before sealing itself shut. Hook grinned, content with the outcome, and gave her a small bow.

"Well my lady, I once again thank you, give my best to Robin and his boy."

With that said, the pirate turned and left the room. Regina heard his steps as he ascended to the top of the stairs; each one acting as a reminder of what she had just done. The one curse she swore to herself and others that she would never use again.

'I'm sorry Henry, Robin,' she thought to herself as she slowly made her way back to her chambers, 'I've failed you both, just like I knew that I would.'

Winter-Rae: I hope you all enjoyed the first chapter. What do you think will happen? Let me know. Cheers!