"The Missing Hook"

A Descendants FanFiction

REMINDER:

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DISCLAIMER: I do not own Descendants, or any of its characters. I am writing this simply for entertainment purposes.

WARNINGS:

-Alcohol Consumption

-Violence

-Cursing

-POV Switching

YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED! READ AT YOUR OWN DISCRETION!

I'd like to take a moment to give a shout out to:

Everyone who's expressed interest in this story and urged me to keep going. Thank you guys for not giving up on me! I see all the reviews...all the favorites and follows and I appreciate every single one of them! I love you guys.

Author's Note: Hey guys! I know y'all have been waiting on this, so here's chapter 3 with the Hook siblings! I'll meet you at the end...enjoy!

How Do I Let Go?

(Harriet Marianna Hook)

I growled as I stormed past my crew, towards my quarters. That ungrateful little shit! How dare he? I hadn't even been this offended when he tried to kill me! I could hear his words as clear as if he were next to me, repeating them.

"Go back t' yer ship. I don't need ya here."

"But, Harry-"

"No, Ettie. As much as ya want t', yer not helpin'. I've got this. I don't need ya here t' watch over me anymore. I don't want ya here."

"Remember this moment, Harry. You will need me again and when you do, I will be there, but I want you to remember this moment."

So, he didn't want me around, huh? Fine. I would stay on my ship. When he lost his grip, which was inevitable, he would have to come to me. To hell with him...and my brat of a sister as well. They didn't need me? Well, I didn't need them. One less thing for me to worry about. I sighed and grabbed my bottle of rum from the desk. I knew deep down that I would always worry. I also knew it was my own fault. Calista had left to protect me and Harry. Because of the pain from what I'd lost, I held on too tightly to what I still had...and lost that too. I knew it was my own fault. I had pushed my brother beyond his limits...as I seemed to frequently do. After she left...after he completely lost it...we made up, but he couldn't face his sea witch. He stayed with me for about a week and I absolutely loved it. I loved finally being able to know he was okay...instead of assuming. But he had to go back...and I had to be the one to make him. We both knew that he was only here because he was afraid of losing it again...afraid of the guilt breaking him. He loved his Captain...and she loved him, too. I forced him to go back because I knew she wouldn't hold that night against him. I knew it was what was truly best for him, but it had still taken some urging from Freddie Facilier to make me do it. It was harder than I could have imagined and watching him leave left me with an inexplicable emptiness inside. I couldn't stand it. I missed being around him. I had started hanging out at the chip shop a lot more. Just being able to see him...in his element, with his crew...it made me genuinely happy. Still, it had been too much for him. He assumed I was there to make sure he didn't go crazy again, and I guess in a sense I was. When I walked in tonight, that was when he had told me to leave. I growled and threw the empty bottle across the room.

"Bad night, Captain?"

I looked up to see Freddie standing in my doorway. She wore her normal wicked smile and her eyes held their normal mysterious twinkle.

"What are you doing here?"

"Thought you might be in need of my services."

"Do I look beaten or bloody to you?"

"Not those services."

She walked over and placed her hands on my shoulders. My hands instinctively went to her hips and my lips met her's. I didn't know how this started, but I knew it was something I definitely needed. Having her...someone I could lean on when everyone else leaned on me...it helped keep me stable...she kept me stable. After Harry had left, I had been so hurt and so furious...I wasn't even sure why. I had needed an outlet and as always she was there. She took all my screaming and harsh words...and then she kissed me. That night I took my aggression out on her in a whole new way...and it had been mind shattering. I shoved her back on the bed and kneeled above her.

"You always know when I need you the most."

"It's kinda my thing, Cap."

I smirked and met her lips once more. Our tongues battled for domination, as my hands explored her body.

"Ettie..."

I smiled and proceeded to give her what she wanted and what I needed. It was my own personal therapy. Afterwards, I layed there, holding her in my arms.

"What's got you so riled up tonight?"

I sighed.

"Same thing as always."

She nodded.

"Harry. What's he done now?"

"He told me to leave. Said he didn't need me...that he didn't want me there."

She sighed.

"Ettie, he didn't mean it."

"I know."

"Hey! That's my job."

I smiled as she giggled. That sound always calmed me down. It wasn't her typical, maniacal, evil, fake laugh...no, it was genuine...it was real, pure happiness. She went to stand and before I realized it, I was holding her wrist.

"You want me to stay."

It wasn't a question.

"Please. I just...need someone tonight."

She smiled and layed back down next to me.

"Of course, Captain."

As I layed there holding her, I wondered what had happened to me. All the emotions I had felt in the last couple of weeks were overwhelming. Calista leaving...Harry going crazy...Harry going back to the sea witch...Freddie and whatever this was...it was all too much. I layed there wishing for sleep, but it didn't come easy.

I looked around. Where was I? I tried to walk forward, but I couldn't. I reached out and felt a tingling sensation in my fingertips. I looked closer and I could see it. I was at the edge of the Isle...touching the barrier.

"Ettie."

As I heard my name, I looked up. Harry was there, standing on the other side of the barrier.

"Harry?! What the hell are you doing? How did you get through?"

"Go back t' yer ship."

"What?"

"I don't need ya here. I don't want ya here."

"Harry, come on. I'm your sister. You will always need me."

I watched as he turned and walked away. No! What was he doing?!

"Harry?! Harrison James Hook, get back here!"

I screamed as loud as I could, but he didn't look back...and no matter how hard I beat against it, the barrier wasn't letting me through. I watched, unable to stop it, as my brother disappeared. They had both left me...they truly didn't need me...I was all alone on this wretched island.

"Ettie?"

That was Freddie's voice...I suppose I wasn't all alone...

"Ettie!"

I jumped up and looked around. Freddie was shaking me, concern in her eyes.

"What's going on?"

"You were having a nightmare. It was Harry, wasn't it?"

She didn't have to ask. She already knew the answer. I sighed.

"I'm fine, Freddie."

"Are you sure?"

I rolled my eyes.

"Yes, dear. I'm just gonna take a walk."

I could tell she wasn't convinced, but she nodded and layed back down. I stood, got dressed, kissed her forehead, and walked to the Wharf. I wasn't looking for a fight...I just needed to clear my mind. There wasn't really much happening tonight, and I was kinda glad. I leaned against a crumbling stone wall. Why was it so hard to let go? I had done it before. I would always leave him...for weeks at a time. Why couldn't I do it now? Was it everything we'd been through? Was it Calista leaving? Was it not having a guarantee that I would see him again, since we never had to go back to the Hellhole? Why was it so hard?! I took a deep breath, trying to reign in my thoughts and emotions. No good would come of me losing my shit. Still, the pain was too much. I started beating the wall behind me. My knuckles were bleeding, but I kept going. If I could focus on the physical pain, maybe the hurt in my heart would go away...just maybe.

"If ya want, I'll take the place of that wall, ma'am."

I turned to see a random person standing there. He seemed to be having a shit night as well. I smiled and pulled my sword. I must say, he was a worthy opponent. We both let out a lot of rage. Eventually, I knew it had to end. I pinned him against the wall and smirked.

"I win."

He smiled.

"Yes ma'am. Still, it was an honor to fight the legendary Harriet Hook."

I rolled my eyes and walked away. The legendary Harriet Hook...yeah right. Some legend I was. I walked back to my ship, heading straight to my quarters. I assumed Freddie would be there waiting for me, but she stopped me on the deck.

"Ettie, before you go in there..."

She looked at me and paled. Her eyes widened with concern.

"Are you ok?!"

Of course I was. I felt better than I had in a while. I looked myself over and realized I was cut up a lot more than I thought. I was practically covered in blood, about 80 percent of it being my own. I remembered my hands and looked at them. My knuckles were mangled. I sighed.

"I'm fine. Come on. You can patch me up and we can crash. I'm actually pretty tired."

I walked to my quarters, but froze when I opened the door. I stood there, unable to move...unable to speak...when I did, it came out as a breathless whisper.

"Harry!"

He was there, laying on my bed, his body completely still. He looked lifeless. Freddie was there immediately, her hands light as a feather on my shoulder, holding me steady.

"It's ok, Ettie."

I wanted to scream a million things at her, but I couldn't. How could this be ok?! My words came out very shaky.

"Is he-?"

I couldn't finish the question, but she knew, as always.

"Almost, but no."

On wobbly legs, I walked to his side. This close...I could see how bad it was...I could see everything. I collapsed, falling to my knees. My legs just weren't strong enough to hold me up anymore...and neither was my heart. I could almost feel it shattering...again. Everything was just too much. I layed my head on the edge of the bed and silently let the tears fall. What was the point of holding them in anymore? I needed to collect myself, but fuck it. Why did I always have to be cool, calm, and collected? Wasn't I entitled to a breakdown every now and then? But breakdowns got you killed here. I sighed and wiped my eyes.

"How did it happen?"

Freddie's voice came from right next to me. I hadn't noticed her there...hadn't noticed her petting my head.

"I don't know."

I stared at her.

"What?"

She sighed.

"I, Freddie Facilier, for once in my life, don't know."

I looked back at him.

"How long has he been here?"

"About an hour before you got here. He showed up like this, asking for you."

I sighed. I knew you would need me, you little shit. I spent the next three days right by that bed. I wasn't moving until he was awake and I could yell and scream and fight and find out what the hell happened...and see that he was okay. After those three long days, I was a wreck. I hadn't eaten...I hadn't slept. I had not left that room. When Freddie opened the door, I looked up and was taken aback by her firm glare.

"Come on."

"No. I'm not leaving."

"Ettie, you-"

"No, Freddie."

Normally, that would be enough to end the conversation. Not this time.

"Harriet Marianna Hook, you are going to leave this room. You are going to go shower, eat, and sleep. When you wake up, I promise he will be ok."

The tone in her voice almost scared me. It was definitely enough to make me wanna not argue.

"What are you going to do to him?"

"What I do best. I am the Voodoo Queen, after all."

"You can't do magic here."

"Ettie, voodoo isn't magic. It's a ritual performed using one's spiritual energy. That comes deep from within one's soul. They can never take that away."

"Just promise you won't hurt him."

"I'll do my best. Now, go."

"Freddie-"

"Go."

She shoved me out of the room and closed the door. I sighed and followed Rita, a member of my crew that Freddie had tasked with making me listen. She walked me to the First Mate's Quarters, where I took a shower for the first time in days. When I was done, Rita had a plate of food waiting on me. I scarfed it down and eyed the bed.

"I'll leave you to get some rest. Good night, Captain."

"Night, Rita."

She walked out, leaving me alone. Part of me eyed the bed, feeling it's call. The other part of me eyed the door, wanting to get to Harry. What was Freddie doing to him right now? Was he ok? Was she cursing him? Finally, logic settled in. I trusted Freddie not to harm him. I also knew she wouldn't let me back in that room anyway. I sighed, knowing I would just have to sleep. I settled in and finally drifted off. When I woke up, I sprang out of bed and ran to my quarters. Freddie was there, leaned against the wall outside the door. She looked like she'd been through hell. She was covered in sweat and I could see the exhaustion wearing at her. I walked up and gently touched her shoulder.

"Freddie?"

She looked up into my eyes and I could see her's weren't the same. I could see red specks flickering in her black orbs. Her mischievous twinkle was also gone. Her eyes were blank and lifeless.

"Freddie?!"

She took a deep breath.

"I'm fine."

Her voice was rough, but she seemed to be telling the truth.

"What happened?"

"I was successful."

"In what?"

"In what I do. Go on. You should see him."

I nodded and walked in, my eyes immediately going to the bed. He was there, laying across it. I could see so many nasty cuts and bruises across his bare chest, but other than that, he seemed fine. I approached the bed slowly.

"Harry?"

I froze as his eyes popped open and he smiled. He sat up and watched me.

"Hey, Ettie."

"You're ok? Like really ok?!"

He laughed.

"Mostly. Thanks t' Freddie."

I walked over to him and mentally scanned him. He was ok. It was unbelievable. I definitely owed Freddie big time.

"What did she do to you?"

He laughed again.

"Relax. I'm good."

"What the hell happened to you?"

He sighed.

"Ettie, I'm broken."

"Tell me something I don't know."

He rolled his eyes.

"Jus' listen, would ya? I'm broken, and crazy, and destructive. I went home."

"Home? Harry, tell me you didn't!"

"I did. Went t' see the ole man."

"Why the hell would you do that?!"

"Broken people do crazy shit."

I stared at him as he started trying to explain his actions. I should have known he would do something like this. He always did. I sighed as I finally realized I didn't have to let go. No matter how much he may argue to the contrary, he would always need me...and I would always need him.

How Do I Carry On?

(Harrison James Hook)

I sighed as I sat on the pier, staring down into the murky black water. I watched as the waves slowly lapped away at the rotting wood that held the pier up. Cali was gone. She was never coming back. I had taken time to let it sink in. I had also taken some time to get my mind under control. The only question now was, where do I go from here? I didn't have Cali to worry about...meaning I didn't have to deal with the old man. Ettie was gone for a while, since I'd definitely pissed her off. Uma was at the Chip Shoppe and didn't need help. So, what was I supposed to do? I'd looked around the Revenge for answers, but found none. I'd walked to the Wharf, but it was dead tonight. I thought about going to see Ettie, but knew that would be stupid. So, what now? Very rarely did I ever find myself with nothing to do, and when I did, I hated it. I wasn't really the type of guy that could take just sitting around too much. I needed to be moving, doing something. Plus, if I could keep myself busy, maybe I wouldn't think about her...wouldn't wonder what she was doing...wouldn't miss her. Yupp, all I needed was to find something to keep myself busy. I sighed and walked back to the Wharf. Still, nothing was happening. I walked to the market, seeing what I could steal. I made away with a few good things, but I wasn't satisfied. They were easy targets and I was still...bored. I sighed and started walking, not thinking about where I was going. When I stopped and looked around, I realized I was at the Hellhole. Why had I come here? I thought about going in...about seeing if he was here, but quickly changed my mind and walked away. Finally, I went back to the Revenge. Uma was done with her shift and greeted me on the deck.

"Harry!"

I looked up and smirked as she stood there, smiling at me.

"Darlin."

I gave a fake bow and she rolled her eyes.

"You gonna stand there all night or come listen to my new plan?"

"I like plans. What's this one for?"

I started walking her way, but stopped when she answered.

"To take over Boradon and do what the traitors couldn't, of course. We wanna make our evil ancestors proud don't we?"

Boradon...Cali...I shook my head. I couldn't think like that. I started walking towards Uma again as she gave me a wicked grin. I returned it as I wrapped my arm around her shoulders.

"Of course."

"Besides, it's an added bonus getting to take down that purple pixie."

I laughed as I rolled my eyes.

"She's a fairy, Darlin."

It was her turn to roll her eyes.

"Whatever."

We went to our cabin and discussed plans for a couple hours. Uma sighed as she looked at me.

"Harry?"

"Yes, Darlin?"

"Are you sure you're ok?"

"Dunno what ya mean."

She growled and I sighed.

"Mostly, ok?"

"Mostly?"

"Quit worryin, would ya? I'm fine. I promise."

She nodded.

"If you say so."

I smiled as she stood and walked over to sit next to me on the bed. She leaned into my side and I wrapped my arm around her.

"I only want you to be happy. You know that right?"

I looked down into her eyes. I could see genuine emotion there.

"Of course, Darlin."

"Are you happy? Here?"

"Ya mean with ya?"

She slowly nodded.

"Darlin, ya make me happier than any man's ever been."

"I just thought you might rather be with Ettie."

"Hell no. If I was close t' her now, she might really kill me. Nowhere in the world I'd rather be."

She smiled and nuzzled closer.

"Good. I really missed you."

"Missed ya too, Darlin."

My arm instinctively tightened around her.

"You mind if I stay here tonight? With you?"

I looked down. She wasn't really looking at me and sounded very tired. I gently tucked her in and layed next to her, wrapping my arms around her.

"Never."

Finally, I had a purpose, I had something to do...that is until the next day. Again, I felt like I was going crazy. Again, I walked with no destination...and again, I ended up back home. I couldn't carry on like this! But still, I would find myself in the same boat day after day. After a week, it happened. I saw him. As I realized where I was, he came walking out. I froze and took a deep breath as his eyes met mine. He grinned...a wicked grin.

"Harrison! Me only boy. Finally come home, have ye? Where's the girl child?"

"Harriet is on her ship, ruling the seas."

"Ahhh. Me first born. The only one really worth a damn. What of the little one?"

He waved his hand dismissively, causing me to roll my eyes.

"She left. Went to Auradon."

I waited, gauging his reaction. Of course he hadn't cared enough to know she left. He took a minute to let that sink in and paled.

"Can't say I'm surprised. Little brat is gonna make me a laughing stock...just like the other four!"

He turned to me and growled.

"Ye let this happen!"

He grabbed me and started shaking me, his hook digging into my arm.

"YE MADE ME A LAUGHING STOCK!"

He backhanded me and I fell to the hard cement ground. I heard him sigh above me.

"Dammit, Harrison. I just wanted to have me a nice drink."

He grabbed me and pulled me inside. I gulped as he threw me against the wall. At least he had the decency to kick my ass inside, not that anyone cared.

"Harrison, Harrison, Harrison. Me only son. Why do ye do this to me?"

I glared at him.

"I ain't done nothin to ya, Old Man."

That pissed him off. He grabbed a glass and threw it at me. I easily dodged, letting it smack the wall behind me and shatter. I took a quick second to look around. The place looked better than the last time I was here. I guessed that Smee had put in the work...since I knew the old man hadn't. Too bad we were about to mess it up again. I turned my attention back to him just in time to see him taking his hat and coat off. That usually meant business. I held onto my hook as he came at me with his raised. After a duel of metal hands, he pulled his sword and started slashing. I cried out as he hit me several times. I managed to pull my own sword and fend him off for a moment. After several hits and misses on both parts, I felt like I might die. Before I'd had a reason to fight...something driving me...and I still wasn't able to win. What hope did I have this time? Still, something inside me was firing me up, urging me forward...no matter how many times he knocked me back.

"Ye know, for someone who boasts about all the fights ye've won, ye still have a very smooth baby face. What say ye we fix that?"

He lunged forward, gashing my cheek with his hook and grabbing my throat with his hand. He raised me up and sighed.

"Why do ye keep tryin, boy? Ye will never win."

"Go to Hell."

He laughed.

"I'm already in it, boy!"

He brought his hook up, hitting me straight in the gut. I doubled over as he dropped me. I tried to stand, but my face was quickly met with his knee. I suppose he thought he'd use the same tactic from last time, but it didn't work. I watched as he turned to walk away. My head was swimming, but I slowly stood up. Hearing me, he stopped and looked over his shoulder.

"Ye've gotten stronger since ye've been gone, eh boy?"

I glared at him.

"Ya have no idea the shit I can take."

He turned to fully face me.

"Is that so? What say ye we test that?"

"I say, bring it."

My right arm had started to go numb from the hole his hook dug outside and the many gashes covering it, but I used my left arm to raise my sword and slowly started walking toward him.

"Tsk tsk. See, Harrison? This is why ye are a first mate. Ye dunno the first thing of pirate laws. Example, never leave yeself open."

He lunged, swinging toward my middle section. I guess he thought since my sword was up, I wouldn't be able to block...but I did. I used the force to whirl around, the motion making the room spin around me. Still, I held my ground. He looked at me and nodded. His crimson eyes were deepening in color. I'd made him mad.

"Maybe ye know one or two things. Still, ye have no hope."

He advanced, and quickly got the better of me. As I layed on the floor, feeling consciousness fade, he knelt down next to me. I could feel a pressure on my lower back as he ripped off my shirt and growled. I screamed as I felt the hook carving into my back. When he was done he stood and walked to the door. Unlike last time, he did look back, a wicked grin on his face.

"Ye really are a disgrace to me name, boy. Tell the girl child I say hello."

He laughed as he walked out. Ettie...she hated me...but I needed her...she was the only one who would get it. I half walked, half crawled to the Fury. As I collapsed on the deck, I heard Freddie's voice.

"Mr. Pirate?"

My voice was raspy, but it managed to work.

"Ettie..."

That was all I could get out before darkness claimed me. I assumed I was dead, but I woke up. I didn't know how long I'd been out, but I was back. How? I looked around. I was on the Fury, in Ettie's quarters. My eyes landed on a dark figure in the corner. I squinted to see.

"Freddie?"

She looked like hell...literally. As she whirled around to look at me, I froze. Those weren't Freddie's normal eyes. They were bright red. As they scanned me, the thick air around her seemed to dissipate. The redness started to fade, but before it did, I could hear a voice that wasn't quite her's come from her mouth.

"It is done. We will go."

She suddenly collapsed, breathing heavily. I sat up, my head spinning.

"Freddie?!"

She slowly stood and smiled. She seemed to be herself again...mostly.

"Whoa there, Mr. Pirate! I'm fine. Take it easy."

"Fine?!"

She laughed.

"Yes, I'm fine. Tired, but fine. What's really important is you. How are you?"

"I'm alive."

"Yes."

"How?"

"Your's truly, of course."

I looked at her and shook my head.

"Ya really are somethin special, ain't ya?"

She laughed.

"I like to think so. Now, get some rest. Your sister will be here soon."

She gave me a wink as she walked out. I sighed...I wasn't ready to face her...to deal with her wrath. It didn't matter, though. She was coming whether I was ready or not. I could hear her talking to Freddie. I layed back and closed my eyes. Maybe if she thought I was still out, she wouldn't kill me. She came barreling through the door and I could hear desperation in her voice as she called my name.

"Harry?"

I couldn't take it. My eyes popped open and I smiled at her.

"Hey, Ettie."

"You're ok? Like really ok?!"

I laughed at her disbelief. Truth is, I was having a hard time believing it too.

"Mostly. Thanks t' Freddie."

She walked over and I could tell she was scanning me, making sure with her own eyes. Always double-checking...that was Ettie. Once she was convinced, she nodded.

"What did she do to you?"

Again, I laughed...because again, I didn't know either. I wasn't sure I wanted to know.

"Relax. I'm good."

"What the hell happened to you?"

Dammit. I knew this was coming. I didn't know if she would understand, but she was the only one who had a chance.

"Ettie, I'm broken."

She rolled her eyes.

"Tell me something I don't know."

It was my turn to roll my eyes.

"Jus' listen, would ya? I'm broken, and crazy, and destructive. I went home."

"Home? Harry, tell me you didn't!"

"I did. Went t' see the ole man."

"Why the hell would you do that?!"

"Broken people do crazy shit."

She seemed to need a minute to wrap her brain around the whole thing. Once she had, she was pissed.

"What the fuck, Harrison?! How could you do that?! How could you put yourself in this much danger? Have you forgotten the hell we went through there?!"

"Of course not! Plus, even if I had...I won't ever forget in the future."

She gave me a puzzled look as I showed her my back. 'DISGRACE' it said...cuz to him that's all I'd ever be. The horror on her face made me wanna die. Then, she sighed as she turned around. She too had a reminder.

"Pirate queen, huh?"

"That's what he wants."

"This is all I'll ever be."

"That's not true. He doesn't tell us what we are. We decide."

"As always, you're right."

"It's a big sister's job. Seriously though, why would you go back?"

"I didn't know what else to do. With Cali gone, I don't know what to do anymore. I felt like I wasn't needed...like I had no purpose."

She sighed and turned away from me.

"Trust me, I know the feeling."

"I'm sorry, Ettie."

"You should be. I was so worried."

"Yeah, that he'd killed me before ya got ya own chance, huh? I know ya gotta still be pissed."

"What?!"

She whirled around and now she definitely was pissed.

"Harrison James Hook! I couldn't kill you, even when you tried to kill me. I was never pissed, dammit. I was hurt, ok? There! I said it. Your words hurt...because you didn't need me anymore. My baby sister is gone and my little brother didn't need me. I was worried I'd lost you for good. I can take her being gone, because I know she's ok. I can't take either of you, especially you, being dead. I'm not a true pirate queen. I'm not that damn strong."

As always, I was flabbergasted. I had no idea she felt all that...didn't think about it that way. I never did.

"Ettie, I really am sorry. For all of it."

She sighed.

"It's ok, Harry."

"No, it ain't. I always do this without thinking about it from yer side."

"That's a little brother's job."

We smiled and she came to sit next to me, wrapping an arm around my shoulders. I leaned my head against her's and sighed.

"What do I do, Ettie?"

"Harry, you still have a purpose. People still need you...I still need you. Sorry, little bro, but you're not free just yet."

I laughed.

"Well damn."

"HOOK! GET OUT HERE, NOW!"

Uma? That was her voice. Fuck! I hadn't thought about her either. Ettie looked at me.

"Speaking of people."

She stood and walked out of the room.

"I know he's in there! Let me in."

That was definitely Uma...and she sounded pissed.

"I tried to stop her, Cap."

That was Freddie. Why was she still here? I listened as Ettie started speaking.

"He's here. Where do you think you're going?"

"To kill a pirate."

That sounded close. Suddenly, the door was flung open and she stood there. She was furious...and glaring at me.

"I knew you'd be here. Damn you, Hook."

"Darlin,-"

She cut me off.

"Don't you dare call me that damned name! How could you lie to me?!"

"Lie to ya?"

"You said you wanted to be with me...and then you left for four days without even a word!"

"Uma, I didn't mean to be gone so long."

She took in my appearance for the first time and stopped.

"What happened to you?"

I tried to explain it to her. She seemed to grasp the concept, but not fully understand. I sighed as she nuzzled into my side, my arm instinctively wrapping around her. I looked from her to my sister, who was standing in the doorway. She was right...I did still have a purpose. I was still needed. I smiled as I saw Freddie come to stand next to Ettie. I didn't miss their hands instinctively clasping together. Good for Ettie...she needed someone to keep her right. Maybe I could carry on like this for a while.

How Do I Get Back?

(Calista Jane Hook)

I sighed as I flopped down on my bed. The sun had already set long ago and I needed to be up in just a few short hours. I was exhausted from the day and fell asleep almost instantly. When I woke up, I noticed Dizzy was already gone...as per usual. I yawned and stood, stretching my sore, overused limbs. Looking around, I noticed a tray of food on the desk and my clothes laid out on the huge chair by the closet...as per usual. I smiled and walked over to the tray, picking up the small note. As I started chowing down on my breakfast I read it.

Late night again? Here's your breakfast...and your clothes are ready too. You really should try to start getting some more sleep...your notes were really sloppy yesterday. Don't worry...I corrected them. See you in class!

-Dizzy

I smiled as I finished eating and started getting dressed. I really owed Dizzy big time for all her help. I had decided if I were going to make it here in Auradon, I had to stay busy...had to keep my mind off the isle...off them. I had started packing my schedule to the brim...every day. Every day, I'd get up and go to class, working my ass off. My grades were really starting to rock. After class, I'd come back to the room and work on my assignments for an hour...then study my notes for an hour. Most days, Dizzy would join me...though, sometimes she preferred to study with Evie. After studying, if she wasn't already there, Dizzy would go to work with Evie on their designs and I went to practice. I'd discovered that running around the Isle all day, running from Dad, running from Harry...it had all made me very good at...well, running. So, Jay suggested I join the track team...and it had been a damn good suggestion. When I was running, I felt free and my mind felt clear. No worries...no cares. I had started pushing myself harder and harder...and it had started paying off. I'd actually won an award in the last race. After practice, I went to practice. Since my last fight with Scar and my chat with Mal, I realized I needed protection...but my siblings weren't here and I couldn't depend on them anymore. I had to learn to stick up for myself. So, Mal had offered to teach me. I would meet her after track and we would practice for hours. At first, it was miserable. I sucked and my body wasn't used to that much work, but recently I'd noticed it was getting easier. I was still sore, but it felt good to know it was for a purpose. Based on Mal's recent reports, I was actually making progress. I had started noticing, she was the one to end practice the last couple weeks...not me. It made me smile. After fighting practice, we'd usually spend an hour or two working on magic stuff. It was actually starting to help a little bit. We usually wrapped things up between one or two in the morning and I'd come home and get about three or four hours of sleep. Since I was so busy, Dizzy had started doing little things like bringing me breakfast, laying out my clothes, and checking my notes and assignments to help. I knew she was worried that I was going to overdo it...but this was the best I'd felt since I'd gotten here. I got dressed, went to class, and returned to the room. Dizzy was with Evie today...they were working double time to meet some deadline on a new project. So, I studied alone. Track practice had been cancelled due to upkeep work on the field. So, I texted Mal to see if she wanted to meet earlier, but she was stuck in meetings. I sighed as I searched my brain for something to do. Finally, I grabbed my bag and went to the training room. I decided that while I waited on dear old Queenie, I would go ahead and start some warm-ups. I started by stretching then went to work on the punching bag. We'd been training for a month and so far, Mal had only worked with me on hand to hand combat. She said I still wasn't ready for weapons. She'd made me give her everything...even my boot dagger. I'd been a little pissed...but I understood. Until I got hold of my magic, I didn't really trust myself not to go all flashy eyes on someone again. I stepped back and watched the bag swing as I caught my breath...still, people like Scar didn't exactly follow the rules of a clean fight. I eyed the throwing knives. What could it hurt to try? What Queenie didn't know wouldn't hurt her. I walked over, grabbed three knives, and turned to the target board. The first knife wasn't even close. I took a deep breath and tried to line the second one up. I did better than the first try, but it still wasn't close. Looking at the last knife, I remembered the one thing Queenie had told me about armed fights.

"It's not about you and the other person. It's about the connection between your mind, your soul, and your weapon. It's a delicate and almost unattainable balance, but an experience and rush like no other if you can master it."

At the time, I'd had no idea what she meant. Now, I still wasn't sure. However, I decided to give it a shot. I positioned my feet, evenly balancing my weight, faced the target, and took a deep breath. As I felt the weight of the knife in my hand, I tried to clear my mind. I could feel a burning urge in my gut...the fire to keep going. I pictured the target in my mind...seeing a perfectly clear image. I took another deep breath, gave the knife a couple small tosses, memorizing the weight and feel of it landing. Once I was satisfied, I drew back and let the knife go. When I opened my eyes, I almost didn't believe what I saw. Perfect bullseye. I squealed and hopped up and down, celebrating a little. That's when I heard the clapping. I turned to see Mal standing in the doorway.

"Nice throw."

"I'm sorry, Mal. I know you said I wasn't ready. I just wanted to try."

"I was wrong. That...that was you finding the balance."

"Seriously?!"

She nodded.

"Does this mean we can start armed training?"

I gave her a hopeful look. She rolled her eyes and smirked.

"Tomorrow night."

"Yes! Thank you!"

"Yeah yeah. Tonight, you still have stealth training."

"Yes ma'am."

We went through our normal training, spent an hour on magic, and went our separate ways. I jogged back to the room, slipped in, and fell back on my bed. Normally, I would be so exhausted that I'd be asleep almost instantly. Not tonight. I was so excited to start armed training! Mal was finally starting to see something in me...to trust me a little. She'd even said she was wrong! I tossed and turned the rest of the night. As soon as the sun rose, I was up. Dizzy almost had a heart attack when she realized I had gotten up first. I laughed and told her about the previous night. She seemed unsure.

"Dizzy?"

"I'm happy for you. I know how hard you've been working. I'm just worried. Are you sure you're fully in control? Especially with your lack of rest everyday. CJ, you can't do this forever."

"Not forever...just until I can kick Scar's ass."

She rolled her eyes and sighed.

"Well, congrats and good luck."

"You going to Evie's after class?"

"Yeah. The deadline's tomorrow. I'm probably gonna spend the night."

"Speaking of working too hard."

She scowled.

"Don't try to turn this on me. It's not the same thing and we both know that."

I sighed.

"You're right, but I'm fine. Promise."

She nodded and left to meet up with Evie. Since I had time before class, I decided to go for a jog around the campus. It really helped to clear my mind. Afterwards, I went about my normal routine. Finally, it was training time! I smiled as I jogged into the training room. Mal wasn't there yet, so I set my stuff down and started stretching. It wasn't long before she came walking in. She noticed me and raised an eyebrow.

"You're early."

"You're late."

"I'm on time."

I rolled my eyes.

"Yeah yeah. Can we get started now, Queenie?"

It was her turn to roll her eyes. She nodded and walked over laying out all my weapons. I smiled and looked at her. She held her hands up.

"They're just for training right now. Afterwards, they come back with me. Once we make sure you have your magic completely under control, then you can have em back. Ok?"

I nodded and smiled, reaching for my boot dagger.

"At least I can have a moment with them."

These weapons were the last pieces of home I had...the last pieces of them. I smiled as I felt the familiar weight of my dagger. I stuck it in my boot and grabbed my rusty old sword. I attached the belt to my hips and smiled at the weight. Last, but certainly not least, my two hand-held daggers. Having them again...it was a feeling like no other. Even though I rarely used them back home, I still had them with me at all times. They had become part of me. When they were gone, I felt almost naked. Having them again, I almost felt whole. After a month of armed training, Mal had called me to the training room early one weekend. I noticed we weren't alone, like we normally were. Fairy Godmother was also there.

"What's up, Queenie? Why the early call?"

I stood there, eyeing FG. Mal smirked.

"Well, since you're pretty much set on physical training, I figured we could spend a little more time on magic training. Fairy G-Mother here is the best in that area. She helped me...she can help you, too."

Fairy Godmother smiled and nodded.

"It's true. Mal and I spent many hours together, working on her magic control. She's done so well. It would be an honor to help you too. With some serious training, I believe you too could master your magic."

I nodded, thinking about it. On the one hand, I wasn't really sure I wanted to spend that much time with FG, but on the other hand, I needed to get control of this raging magic inside me. I sighed and looked up.

"Ok. Let's do this thing."

Mal smiled and hugged me.

"Fairy Godmother will take it from here. I'll pop in from time to time and get daily reports, though. So, behave."

She gave me a stern look. I smiled and nodded.

"I promise."

"We'll still meet when you're done to keep up with physical training."

I nodded and watched as she left. Once she was gone, I turned to FG.

"Where do we start?"

She became very excited and led me to her personal magic library. I spent the next two and a half months studying all things magic with FG every chance I got. Before school, during lunch, after track practice. I was learning so much. After the first couple weeks of reading books, we started actually practicing what I'd read. After two and a half months, she was happy to report that with minimal upkeep, I would have complete control in no time. She'd put me through many tests, pissed me off many times, and I'd managed to control the flashing eyes and not hurt her. Mal was pleased with the reports and finally let me have my weapons back. About a week later, I was confronted by Scar again. She came up behind me while I was running and tried to sneak attack me. I saw her coming and countered her attack.

"Damn, Little One. You've been practicing."

"I have."

"With the would-be-Queen, I hear."

"If you mean Mal, then yes."

Scar smiled.

"And what has dear old Mal taught you exactly?"

I smirked.

"Just a few things...basic training, really."

"Hmmm. I'm sure. I'd like to see what this basic training is, if you don't mind."

"Sorry. It's a private training session."

"Then how about we test it in a rematch?"

"A fight? Me and you?"

"Mmmhmmmm."

"Well, that's not very nice, now is it Scar?"

"No, it's not. Then again, we're not really nice people are we? We have our demons...everyone from the Isle. We'll never be puffy princesses...not even dear Mal. So, are you too afraid without your back up, or has dearest Mal instilled you with a false bravery?"

I sighed, becoming increasingly annoyed by her presence.

"When and where, Scar?"

She smirked.

"I see. False bravery it is. The gym, tomorrow, three pm."

"See you there."

I smiled as I jogged off. Once out of sight, my smile faded and I went to Mal.

"What's up, Kid?"

"Scar...fight...gym...tomorrow...3 pm...I said yes, dammit."

She sighed.

"Of course you did."

"It's just...she's just so..."

"She's Scar. She gives everyone that feeling. Trust me."

"So, what do I do?"

"What do you mean? You agreed to a fight, so you fight."

"What?! Aren't you supposed to tell me how stupid that was and that I'm not ready?"

"Seems I don't need to. Plus, now that you've already agreed, it would be worse to back out then it would to just kick her ass."

"You really think I can?"

"Of course you can! If you can hold your own against me, you can beat Scar. This is what all this was about anyway. So, don't let her get in your head. That's what she wants and you can't give her what she wants."

"Got it. Fight. Don't give her what she wants. I can kick her ass. I got this."

"Remember the training and you got this."

I nodded and smiled.

"Thanks, Queenie."

She rolled her eyes and smirked.

"Yeah yeah."

I spent pretty much that whole night in the training room. The next day, I was ready...but also nervous. Training with Mal was one thing...but this was a real fight...with someone who really wanted to hurt me. Still, I couldn't back down now. If I did, Scar would never let me live it down. I had to do this...and I had to win. As I got to the gym, I noticed Mal was there. I had come early in hopes of composing myself before Scar got there.

"Hey, Queenie. What are you doing here?"

"Did you think I'd miss your big fight?"

"Thought you might be too busy...or that you wouldn't want to get into trouble."

She rolled her eyes.

"I may be a Queen in training, but I still come from the Isle. I live for trouble...and there's no way in hell I'm missing a good fight."

"What if it's not though?"

"Not what?"

"What if it's not a good fight? What if I get pummeled...again?"

"Hey, I thought we talked about this yesterday. Remember the training."

"Yeah. You're right. I got this."

Mal and I ran through some quick practice until 3. People started showing up early. Figures Scar would want the whole school there. Finally, she walked in. I couldn't wait to knock that stupid smirk off her face. She walked over to me and grinned.

"Ready, Little One?"

"How many times have I told you not to call me that?"

I rolled my eyes as she laughed.

"Are you ready or not?"

I smiled as I tightened my hold on my daggers.

"Oh, I'm ready. Are you?"

"Must be some basic training if it's got you this confident."

"Oh, it is."

We proceeded to give the people what they wanted. She made the first move, lunging for me. I quickly side stepped and watched as she tripped and stumbled, barely catching herself. She looked up and I could tell she was mad. She stood and walked slowly towards me. She stopped just out of reach and pulled her blade from her boot. I smiled and raised my two.

"I came prepared."

"Doesn't mean you know how to use em."

She lunged and I dodged. I remembered what Mal said, trust your weapons and instincts. Other people are unpredictable, but your instincts and weapons are always the same...and they never let you down. I tuned the world out and felt the daggers...their familiar weight. I used all my senses, feeling when she was going to attack and countering with perfect precision. After a while, I went on the offensive, using just enough of my rage to fuel me forward, but careful not to open the floodgate. I will admit, it was difficult. Finally, I had her pinned. I took great pride in the small amount of panic that laced her words.

"You win! You win."

I smirked and stepped back.

"Yeah, I did."

After that fight, people respected me a little more. They whispered less when I walked down the hall. I'd done it. I'd learned to protect myself...to control myself...and I'd finally shut Scar up. This was everything I'd wanted. Still, it didn't feel right. I sighed as I walked into Mal's office, not bothering to knock. She smirked as she looked up at me.

"No, I'm not busy. Sure, come on in."

"Mal...I need help."

"Of course...what's up?"

"I did it. Everything I set out to do...I did it. Wanted to learn to fight...did it. Wanted to learn to control my magic...did it. Wanted to kick Scar's ass...did it. Everything...did it."

"Ok, most people would be thrilled about that. So, what's the problem?"

"The problem is there's nothing left. What do I do now?!"

She sighed and nodded.

"Ahhhh, yes. The distractions have come to an end and you're panicking."

"Yes!"

"Kid, you're gonna have to man up and face it at some point. You're homesick. You may be able to take your mind off of it for a while, but it's not just gonna go away. You can either keep distracting yourself or you can deal with it."

"I'm trying to distract myself right now!"

"We both know that's no way to live."

I sighed.

"I guess you're right...as usual. So, how do I deal with it?"

"I can't answer that for you. Only you can."

I sighed and stood.

"Thanks, Mal."

"Anytime, CJ."

I walked back to my room and layed on my bed. How could I deal with this? How could I make it stop? Over the next week, I tried many things, but none worked. I realized I was really only distracting myself again. There was only one way to get this feeling to go away. I knew what I had to do, but I couldn't. I knew it was possible, because Mal had done it...but could I? Besides, it wasn't just about getting there...it was about what would come after. I thought back to when I pitched the idea to Mal earlier tonight. I remembered her words and mulled them over inside my head. She was right...as always, but what else could I do? I had to take that chance...or did I? I tried to remember why I'd come here to begin with...for them. This was the best thing for them, but without them...I was nothing...just a crumbling mess. I needed to find my way back...back to who I really was. I stood and walked to Mal's office. She was there...working furiously on some royal assignment.

"Late night?"

She looked up and smirked.

"A queen's work is never done."

"You're not queen just yet."

"No, but someday, maybe."

"That day could be tomorrow. You know Ben's dying to put a ring on that finger."

She chuckled.

"Yes, I know. I want to make sure I'm ready first. We mustn't rush into things."

"Yeah."

"Speaking of, what brings you here?"

I took a deep breath.

"I thought about it."

"Did you?"

"I did. I thought long and hard...even weighed all the options."

"And the repercussions?"

"Accounted for. Worth it."

"So, final decision?"

"Let's do it."

She nodded.

"Tomorrow night, then."

I nodded and walked back to my room. I had to get back to who I was...I had to.

Author's Note: Welp, there we go. Not the best, but it's a good set up to the next chapter. As always, I hope you guys enjoyed this. Leave me a review and let me know! (:

MUCH LOVE,

CRAYZEE BUBBLES