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tampered2006-12-25 10:37 pm
ironhook.livejournal.com) wrote in tampered2006-12-25 10:37 pm
Log; Complete
When; December 21st, Morning, Servant-Master Day
Rating; PG-13 for thimble/kiss confusion ;3
Characters; Captain Jas. and Peter Pan
Summary; Servant!Hook and Master!Pan. 'nuff said.
Log;
Yawning for the upteenth time since he'd decided to roll out of bed that morning, Peter ran a hand through unruly blond hair and cast another glance at his roommate's room. The boy wizard had been unusually quiet lately and while Peter was intensely curious as to what the other was up to, he knew better than to pry. Howl could be testy when he was upset- and lately the wizard had been in a frightfully bad mood.
He sighed. Despite his desire to help the other out, Peter really didn't want to linger around the place. With a soft frown he began searching through the nearest drawer of clothing. His roommate had long ago insisted on getting rid of his normal attire, but when faced with the alternative? The frills and laces made him feel like a cupcake. Pair of pants in hand, he gripped a pantleg tightly, ripping them to end at the knee. That was suitable enough- and coupled with one of the wizard's white shirts with sleeves modified in a similar fashion- it was a far better solution. Dressed and long since fed, Peter made his way out of the building and headed towards the City's center. Even as early as it was, there was bound to be something interesting going on.
James, on the other hand, was wide awake. He had been, actually, since leaving Mars and Sarah's company the day prior. While at the witch's house, he had received a decent night's sleep, having been privy to a bath and a warm bed, as well as friendly company (which, contrary to popular belief, he was not against all of the time). Not to mention, the ticktock had been gone from his mind the entire time. Once parting with Mars, however, and wandering the City alone... the ticking had returned with a vengence. He had been able to ignore it while he explored the City, but with all distractions gone, he had been unable to get a good night's sleep.
Fortunately, James was used to such things, so even though he was up at what some might insist be an early hour, he was still feeling relatively refreshed. And ready to leave this metropolis. For all he had been told about it, its pretty lights and chrome and extravagance were not all that pleasing to the pirate captain. He much preferred Sarah's humble cabin in the forest. It was more what he was used to. If he was lucky, she may let him stay there for a while. Until he found a ship of his own, at least, even if it were anchored with no way of travel. Terra firma was no longer his home-- he belonged to the sea, and had since his youth. Besides, it would be easier to think with company around and the infernal ticking gone from his head.
Therefore, he was preparing to leave the place and hike back through the forest to the fair Sarah's home. He had a feeling it might take a good portion of the day, if he planned on memorizing the forest any better. And so far none of these 'curses' had popped up, so it was a good a day as any. Dusting off the cuff of his boot, checked to be sure all of his effects were in order, tugged on the scarlet fabric of his frock and headed off in the direction of the forest.
Floating lazily on his back with his arms folded behind his head, Peter let his body rise the wind's currents. December or not, the warmth of the sun was undeniable and the smile came easily to his face. From what he'd seen earlier, it looked as though most of the inhabitants were still sound asleep in their beds, though a few brave souls looked as if they'd decided to go christmas shopping.
Another yawn and the boy rolled in the air, savoring the feeling as wind rushed past his ears and tugged on his clothes. Christmas shopping, yes- he hadn't even begun. Peter looked to the side, chewing on his lip thoughtfully. He couldn't very well not get presents for his new friends, but he'd see to it later- when the sun didn't feel so warm on his back. He was half tempted to just stretch out someplace warm and relax. Not that he'd hadn't had a fitful night of sleep the night before, because he had, but he'd been restless for quite some time now and with no appealing alternative, curling up on the grass and lazing about all day seemed as good a plan as any.
But on the other hand, his mind supplied, if he did decide to sleep all day then even if something of interest -did- come up, he'd be too busy sleeping to take advantage of it. It was a good point and Peter laughed aloud. Sometimes his own genius amazed even him.
Another glance below let green eyes catch sight of his nemesis and Peter rolled though the air with a wide smile. Where oh where was Hook headed to now?
With the streets relatively empty, and the knowledge that the walk through the city might take some time (he was in no hurry, considering the hour), James took a moment to bask in the relative quiet. It was something he had not been able to do since the Wendy girl had arrived in Neverland-- such a ruckus, those children had caused-- and although it was late in winter, it was no where near as cold as it could get in Neverland. He closed his eyes briefly as he walked, feeling the warmth of the sun on his back, and smiling privately for it.
A moment later he fished in the pocket of his frock, pulling out his cigar holder, which was freshly reloaded with pilfered tobacco, and set to lighting it. A couple of puffs, and he sighed. The only thing that would put him further at ease would be for the incessant clock in his head to cease and desist. But alas, he doubted that would happen until he reached Sarah's home. As he turned down another street, the road that led to the forest and the ocean beyond, he pulled on his cigars and began singing under his breath. He found if he did, it provided at least some distraction from the ticking.
"Avast bely, yo ho, heave ho, a-pirating we go. And if we're parted by a shot, we're sure to meet below--"
A singing Hook was a new sight, though given a few moments to consider why he'd done so in the first place- it made sense. Peter himself was not immune to the City's tick-tocking, but he was certain that Hook was far more troubled by the sound than any other of the City's inhabitants. With a playful grin Peter flew closer, hovering only a few feet above the pirate. While he was feeling innocently mischievious and had no intention of physically harming the man unless the need should arise- it was too good of an oppertunity to pass up. He would have to be careful to keep his shadow out of the line of sight, and though he was grateful that the ticking had stopped when he got closer to the pirate, he didn't give it a second thought.
The cigar smoke however, caught him off guard and Peter had to hold a hand to his mouth to smother the cough that threatened to break loose. Shaking his head briefly, as if to ward it off, he reached out quickly, pushing the man's hat forward and nearly off his head before leaping up into the air once more.
Although Pan was able to keep his shadow out of sight, James went on alert before that. His cigars hovering just before his lips as the ticking faded from his mind. That could only mean one thing-- that somehow, someone had sidled up close to him without his noticing. Frowning just slightly, forget-me-nots slid from left to right, seeking out the individual who could have done such a thing. Had they been behind him, he would have heard.
Of course, how he didn't think to look up, all things conisdered, was rather silly. So Pan took him by surprise when his feathered hat was abruptly knocked askew. James stopped abruptly, tripping over himself with surprise when his sight was suddenly obscured. It helped in causing his hat to fall off, and catching himself, he snagged the flamboyant garment with the hook of his right hand in the same moment that he whirled around. This time his gaze snapped skywards, and he bristled, because Pan had caught him off guard.
"You!"
Nearly doubled over in laughter, Peter hovered in mid-air, sitting cross-legged and smiling victoriously. "Aye Hook, me!"
It wasn't often he was able to get the better of the pirate, at least not in such an obvious way. More often than not they would exchange taunts, Hook would attempt, like always, to try to kill him, and Peter then fully satisfied, would go on his merry way. The pirate had to have been deeply distracted to allow him to get so close- well within striking range in anycase. To see his foe trip over himself and nearly fall in the process had been a real treat, but not nearly as enjoyable as the lack of the man's usual dignified commentary in response.
Forget-me-nots narrowed as the captain pointedly set the hat atop his head. That was the second time in just as many days that Pan had one up on him, and he sneered at the boy. This was no good. James definitely needed to find a way to be rid of the tick-tock. It left him far too open to attack from his rival. Sure, it had been simply an undignified tip of his hat this time, but what if the boy had instead had a sword in his possession? Hook was making it entirely too easy for the fairy child.
However, he was distracted by Peter's attire very suddenly, the look on his face fading from rage into more something closer to disgust and perplexed amusement. In all the time Hook had known the boy, Peter had never worn such things as... normal clothing. Ripped up as they were, it still, somehow, made him look less like a wild boy and more like one who lived in a home. James wasn't sure whether to be hilarious amused by this, or totally appalled. "What in Hades are you wearing?"
Half prepared to shoot back a smart retort at the threat he had been certain Hook would give- the comment caught him off guard. What-? Peter's face fell briefly, puzzled as he grabbed the tattered edge of the bottom of his shirt to examine the cloth more closely. Though the wardrobe his roommate had provided at first was entirely too flashy and all together unpractical for flying, Peter had considered his modifications to the garments more than appropriate.
Face twisted into an almost pout, Peter shrugged, rolling once more to situate himself upsidedown and grin once more. "As if you're one to talk. They're clothes!" He insisted, voice cracking at the exclaimation before a look of shock made it's way across his face and he shut his mouth tight- glaring.
His eyebrows shot up, James straightening, chin lifting to look at Pan in a sideways manner. His smile was slow and calculating. "Ah... My, my, my..." He chuckled, from somewhere low in his throat. So there had been some truth to Mars' words after all. "So it isn't just real clothing that's changed about you, is it?" The pirate asked venomously, the smile still on his face.
James crossed his arms, hook cradled in the crook of his elbow, cigars held up so as not to burn his jacket. Yes, there was no mistaking it. The crack was not just a slip of the vocal chords. And judging from Peter's reaction, it wasn't the first... unusual thing to happen.
Arms crossed indignantly once more, Peter sat upright, looking down at the man with a frown before dismissing it entirely. While it was true that the problems with his voice had been the very least of his worries, he certainly wasn't about to let Captain James Hook get the better of him once more. If all their previous fights had taught him anything, it was that the pirate would always result to bouts of verbal sparring. It made sense really, since Peter held the upperhand more often than not- that when brute strength wasn't enough, Hook began saying those...things.
The boy shook his head with a shrug, smile once again playing on his lips as he leaned forward swipe at the man's hat again. "I don't know what you're rambling about old man. Why don't you admit that you're just jealous?"
James jerked away from hand questing for his hat, leaning away and lifting his chin so as to take the feathered garment out of Peter's range. He bristled at the old man comment, as he always did, but with the second question, his eyes narrowed and a peculiar expression crossed his face. He was jealous of Pan, wasn't he? Though that was only one of the many emotions that warred within the pirate over the boy. Before he could stop the internal speculation, his mouth was open, and he started to admit exactly what Peter wanted to hear:
"Fine. I am jea--"
But he swiftly snapped his mouth shut, eyes blown wide with horror. He reeled away, three steps back, from the flying boy. His arms uncrossed and he stared, apalled, at his rival. What in the name of Lucifer had compelled him to even think of saying such a thing?
Peter himself wore a matching expression, eyes wide with shock. In all the years he had known the man, in the years they'd each spent memorizing and analyzing the intimate details of one another, never, -never- would he have expected to actually hear such a thing from the pirate. The sheer surprise nearly knocked him out of the air and he managed to catch himself before rising slowly to meet the man's eyes.
Judging from the look on his face, Hook hadn't meant to say such a thing to begin with and ordinarily would have-
Ordinarily.
The bewildered expression slowly gave way to a wicked grin. Another curse, of course- though the extent of which he didn't know but really, there was only one way to find out. "Hook..." He drawled sweetly, eyes brimming with curiousity and delight, "touch your finger to your nose."
James' jaw locked firmly, the horror and confusion still clear in the pale of his eyes. He stiffened when Pan rose up right before him, and had every intention of turning tail and running-- or at least going for his sword-- but found he couldn't do a thing. And while he never trusted Pan's intentions before-- now, with that misleading honey-sweet smile on his face... James trusted him even less.
"Ridiculous. Why wo--" Once again, the words dried up in his throat as he was compelled out of his own accord to lift his left hand and touch his index finger to his nose. As soon as it was done, though, the hand closed into a fist and he snapped it away from his face. "What the hell are you doing?" He snarled accusingly, confusion giving way to the anger that came with humiliation. The hook of his right hand lifted, and eyes flashing red, he made to advance on Peter, homicide written all over his face.
As his hand went to his face, Peter feel a rush of victory course through him. So it was true, today's curse had the pirate obeying every word he said, but the laugh died on his lips as he saw the change in Hook's eyes. Blue to violent red and Peter swallowed hard, determined to hold his ground. Of course the pirate would attempt to kill him, no doubt believing that his new weakness had been created by the boy himself. Perhaps, when his life was no longer in danger, he would explain it to the man.
"Stop trying to hurt me!" He commanded- and though only moments ago he'd been rejoicing in his newfound ability, the idea of putting his life in the hands of one of the City's strange curses....was easier said than done.
Hook drew up short, as if he had run into a wall, or his body had been frozen to the spot. For a moment, his jaw tightened, and he looked as though he were struggling against an invisible force. Then, with a frustrated growl, he wrenched the hook from the air, it returning to his side. And he could do nothing to stop it, either. At that very moment, there was nothing James would have loved more than to disembowl the little brat. And yet-- and yet he couldn't. The command, it went straight through his core and halted his ability to lift the hook again. He wanted to, oh yes, but it was impossible.
"What have you done to me?" James whispered viciously, his eyes a brilliant crimson, and though he was all but shaking with rage, there was uncertainty underneath it all. James was not used to having all control taken from him. His whole life revolved around his ability to remain on top, nigh untouched, unshakeable. And it was no surprise that it would be Peter to do... whatever this was... to him. Ever since their meeting, the boy had been throwing him curve balls, keeping him on his toes, leaving him off kilter like no other was able to.
But this... this was unnerving.
He managed to barely restrain a sigh of relief, and now confidant that there was no danger, Peter let himself sink to the ground, bare feet landing on the cool earth below. While he was used to maintaining an advange of some sort around the pirate, this new ability was frighteningly more effective than any trick he'd ever employed. Still, the curse would end at some point, and should Hook assume he'd done this entirely of his own ability there was no doubt there would be hell to pay.
If he wanted to be able to live a halfway decent life he would have to explain it to the pirate, and explination meant that he'd have to do his best not to flaunt his victory. Grounding himself should help, if only a fraction. It meant that he was on Hook's footing and on top of that, giving the man the advantage of his height. Regardless, he still didn't feel entirely safe. "I haven't done anything. It's another curse day I think." He offered, struggling to keep his voice calm and neutral, almost as if trying to reassure a dangerous animal.
His left hand flexed of its own accord, as if itching to curl around Pan's neck and throttle the life out of him. But Hook couldn't bring himself to take those few steps and close the distance between them. Pan had ordered him against taken such action, and he couldn't bring himself to defy the command. So instead, his lips curled into a derisive sneer.
"A curse day," He retorted, mockery in his tone. So this was a curse day, was it? This was what they meant when they said they could only get worse, and that the past two had been relatively harmless. Well, James could easily, and readily, agree with them now. James bristled again. Then why was he at Pan's mercy, instead of someone elses? What kind of sick and twisted place was this? "I find it quite difficult to believe you did not have some sort of... say in this situation," He growled, diction incredibly polite, but the look on his face nothing less then unadultered hate.]
His eyes said it all- glinting with murderous intent coupled with the complete inability to follow through. In hindsight, it was a good thing the curse had worked the way it did. Had it been Peter at Hook's command- he doubted the man would be nearly as merciful. When it became clear that his attempts at civility were going entirely unnoticed, Peter took to the air once more, sitting cross-legged and upside down. "It wasn't my doing, but I'm not complaining" he teased with a smile. If nothing else, the curse would only last until midnight so if he planned on exploiting Hook, he couldn't very well waste his time. Still, as ready as he was to have fun, there were a few details that he'd wanted to know first.
The boy leaned forward as he plucked the hat from the man's head and placed it securely on his own. "Tell me where you're staying."
James made to snatch for his hat, scarlet eyes narrowing with contempt at the pretty little picture Peter made with it atop his head. The question, however, was easy to avoid. Perhaps if he simply took everything Pan said at face value, this day would not turn out as terrible as it very well good. It sent a shiver of trepidation down James' spine, the knowledge that Peter could make him say-- admit to anything. Things he hadn't told another living soul since his last trusted confidante had died.
"Currently? No place," He snapped, and turned on heel in preparation to walk away, as if not looking at Pan might help with his new-- albeit rather weak-- plan. It was true, though. He hadn't asked Sarah yet if he could stay at her place. For all she knew, he could be dropping in for a short visit. Although it was his intention to remain in her home for a longer period of time.
Realization dawning on his face, Peter narrowed his eyes. The pirate certainly was skilled at finding loopholes, but he wouldn't let such a thing stop him. Still, he didn't quite understand that flicker of....fear perhaps, that passed over his enemy's face. But then, the pirate was already attempting to make a speedy escape and if he did so, Peter would never get his answers.
"Don't leave my side all day!" He called, arms crossed as he adamantly refused to chase after the man. If Hook was going to be difficult about it, then he held no reservations about doing the same.
James froze, body seizing up, arms lifting slightly as if Peter had physically cuffed him upside the back of the head, not simply issued an order. A moment later he relaxed, standing straight and closing his eyes, mentally counting down from ten in latin. Pan was grating on every last nerve he had, but if things were to continue this way... Well, the pirate had no choice. He would simply have to find every loophole he could, and maybe, if he was lucky, he could escape this before the day was out.
With a soft growl, he dropped his cigars back in his pocket-- they had since gone out-- and crossed his arms. Why in the world Peter would want to have him around, aside from the obvious, was beyond James. But fine. He could play along-- as long as it didn't get out of hand.
He turned just slightly, looking at the floating boy over his shoulder. "That could prove difficult," He snarked, "Considering that, of the two of us, I cannot flit about at will."
The boy looked thoughtful for a moment, as if he hadn't considered such a detail to begin with- and he hadn't, but his feet touched the ground once more regardless. Aside from his complaints, the man was certainly going to be troublesome and he heaved a sigh at the thought. Hands came to rest at his waist and he leaned forward as if examining the pirate, brows knitted tightly together and lips pursed. Hook had a nasty habit of making everything far more difficult than it had to be, which often resulting in upping the ante, which in turn had to be held responsible for numerous unpleasant outcomes.
"Tell me where you were headed before I stopped you just a moment ago."
James grit his teeth, both at the question and at the pose the boy had taken. Pan was insufferably at the best of times, but now that he held this... whatever it was, over Hook's head, the pirate found it even harder to deal with without completely losing his temper. Which would do nothing but make him look silly, in this situation. Since he couldn't do anything without Pan's approval.
"The forest," He growled, though it came out grudgingly, and where the red of his eyes had faded a little, they lit up once again.
An eyebrow arched once more and he leaned in closer- if only to make the man feel more ill at ease. "Where at in the forest?" he pushed, unflinching at the sudden change in Hook's demeanor. He'd expected to annoy him, to make him angry in one way or another but that was hardly the purpose of his questioning. After all, had Hook himself not threatened to hunt him down only a day or so earlier? Turn about was fair play after all- and yet the tone of the other's voice sounded disturbingly like he was pouting.
Peter struggled not to smile.
"It really is no business of yours whe--,"And still, as much as he wanted to avoid the question with pretty words, they were cut short as he blurted, "A cabin," And then had to fight the urge to press the heel of his palm to his forehead. Instead, he pursed his mouth and closed his eyes once more with annoyance, opening them after a moment-- half-lidded-- to look at Peter sideways. He refused to face the boy full on.
"You, are enjoying this far too much," James muttered. Though, truth be told, if their positions were reversed-- he would be doing the exactly same thing, if not more.
Where Hook had felt the urge to knock Peter around only moments earlier- the boy was now mirroring that impulse. Pursed lips became a half frown and his eyes narrowed. A pout that bordered becoming a glare. He was getting annoyed and rightfully so, though if nothing else, he got satisfaction from seeing how entirely displeased the pirate was at the entire scenario. It meant bragging rights after all, and at this rate- rights that Peter would have no qualms about flaunting. "Stop making things difficult. Who's cabin?"
"A witch's," He said quickly, maliciously, and finally turned on Peter, uncrossing his arms and advancing on the boy. "Though it hardly matters, as I will be returning to a ship as quickly as possible." He stopped right in front of Peter, eyes narrowed as he looked down at him. He still had the look about him of a cobra ready to strike, but not yet did he show any signs of actually attacking the fairy child. Not that he could, as the order from minutes ago still rang like a bell through his sea-weathered body.
Peter looked up at the man, green eyes meeting blue and glinting dangerously. Whether he chose to say anything or not, the action spoke volumes; not arrogance or defiance but a simple declaration- I am not afraid of you. He did not flinch, though his body instinctively wished to recoil, to move away from danger. When he finally did speak however, his eyes remained trained on the man before him, voice low "Tell me her name."
After all this time, James still had to smirk inwardly at the bravery Peter showed. He was perhaps the only person Hook had met that could stand and meet his gaze unflinchingly. At first this had annoyed him-- how dare someone not fear him? The Sea-Cook himself had. Captain Jas. Hook was a terror of the seven seas, and then some. It had become his goal to gain and uphold that title with fierce dignity. The fact that Pan could defy him of it... well, now James saw it a as challenge. It was refreshing, though he did not ever plan on revealing this. To anyone.
"Sarah," He finally said upon leaning down to the boy, and his voice was almost a purr, pitched so low that only Peter would have heard him if anyone else had been walking by. His mouth curled into a derisive smile, for really, did it really matter that Peter knew where he lived? He had known that he lived upon the Jolly Roger, after all. "And again, she is a witch. Witches, as you should know, are not to be trifled with. Nor are those she has an... interest in." And though he said the final words with a suggestive twist, he expected it to go right over Peter's head, as these things usually did.
Though after Wendy... maybe not.
The purred commentary earned a hateful glare and the boy's hands curled into fists at his sides. Hook had always been annoyingly good at provoking him into outright rage and what irked him further was that Peter himself was uncertain as to why the response angered him so. "I am sure you two are very happy together" he growled, hand reaching out to steal the man's hat once more. "Stop trying to take the hat back." He added, pushing it onto his head once more.
Peter was aggravated and set on edge- which only served to annoy him further. What should he care, after all, if his only nemesis had settled down with some pretty blond witch in a cabin in the woods? Tugging the brim of the hat low, to cover his eyes, Peter took a breath. More of those feelings he'd been trying to avoid. Unpleasant things that they were, and they got in the way of having fun. "Hook, call yourself a codfish." He said simply, half-heartedly trying to cajole himself into a better mood. It wouldn't do to hand the victory over to the pirate when so much of fate was already on his side.
James smirked, pleased with the reaction, though the smirk fell away just as quickly as it appeared when Peter snatched the hat again. Irked further when the boy idly told him not to take it back. It may have been an off-hand comment, but it lanced through Hook like an order to a well-trained dog. As was becoming the norm with these commands, James stiffened briefly and withdrew from the boy's personal space, straightening to his full height.
He had meant for the comment to knock Pan back, but even James was a touch surprised by the crisp reaction from the boy. Really, it was almost silly for Peter to believe him so easily. James was, as he so aptly put it, alone and unloved, and that was how he expected it to remain. These dark thoughts were quickly shoved aside, though, by Peter's newest order.
"I--" He started, then bit down on his lower lip in an attempt to stop from saying just that. "A--" Twice he managed to stop himself before helplessly blurting out: "Hook is a codfish." Once it was out there, though, he growled, threw up both arms and turned to walk away from Pan. He didn't get very far, though. The boy had ordered him to stay nearby, so he ended up taking about five paces before turning and retracing three steps. His eyes flashed red briefly before settling back into the forget-me-not blue, the pirate crossing his arms and, for all intents and purposes, sulking quietly.
The ploy worked and Peter chuckled softly. He hated being in a bad mood and was dismayed when he first learned that such things were not as easily forgotten as they ordinarily were. Given time however, though he'd been unable to avoid such things altogether, he'd at least found ways to get around such things- like hearing Hook call himself a codfish which had proven to be more than effective.
He tilted the hat back a fraction, enjoying the quasi-power symbol for what it was- even if it happened to be ridiuclously overdecorated. Still, he supposed he could see why the pirate was so partial to it. "Hook..." He paused, chewing his bottom lip once more. It would be a waste to have such unlimited power for the day and do nothing with it but he also had some Christmas shopping to do..."I know! Hook, help me with my Christmas shopping." Smiling widely, his hands went to his waist once more, obviously pleased with himself. It wouldn't be too difficult a task- he acknowledged. "I only have a few things to get; something pretty for Namine and Holly, something for Luffy..." he paused mid-sentence, scrutinizing Hook before asking suddenly "What do pirates want for presents?"
Here it comes, James thought demurely as Pan muttered his name thoughtfully. When the boy seemed to struck with a thought, and announced Christmas shopping, of all things, he was at first relieved that it wasn't something worse-- and then immediately realized what it was Pan had just ordered him to do. Completely aghast-- Christmas shopping?!-- he almost completely missed the second question.
"I will do no such thing," He denied immediately, but though he said it, his mind was already going to what sort of presents girls, and pirates, would like. "I suppose we'll have to see, won't we?" He asked, and then scowled darkly at the boy, because it would likely be like this all day. Hook saying things he would never, ever say-- especially around his rival.
Ruddy brilliant.
Ignoring the other's commentary entirely, Peter's eyes lit up with childlike enthusiasm. Christmas in Neverland had been fun, but having Christmas here in the City with all new presents and people....it would be perfect! "Here, you can go find me an easy one..." Brows furrowed once more and though he hadn't consciously decided to do so, his body had instinctively risen a few inches in the air.
He had to get something for his roomma- for Howl. If only to make sure he didn't start crying because he didn't get anything. But the man had been depressed lately...
And as suddenly as the question had come, and answer was provided. Wendy had said kisses were special and powerful and always made people feel better, it would be the perfect gift for Howl! "I want a kiss." He said simply, leaning in closer to the pirate as he gave the instructions, "You can leave my side only to find the best kiss in the entire City but then you have to bring it back here for me before sundown at the latest. Understand?"
With a shake of his head, blue eyes cut off to the side. He had never really liked Christmas, or hadn't for a long time, and though he had permitted his crew the gift exchange, he had made it perfectly clear that if he heard a whisper of the merriment that they would be meeting Davy Jones' Locker much sooner in their careers than they wanted to. He found Peter's enthusiasm was almost offensive. And to make matters worse, he would have to find the bloody gift, because this stupid curse wouldn't let him run off on his own.
When Peter suddenly announced he wanted a kiss, James startled and looked sharply back to him. Of course, it was only to meet the bright green of his eyes entirely too close for comfort. The captain recoiled just a little a little, taken off guard for the second time that day. Okay. So he had permission to leave, but... For the love of Hades. "You want a what?" He asked, entirely deadpan, and hoping to the stars he had not heard correctly.
Brows knotted together once more, clearly confused as to why his request had earned such a reaction. Still, the boy supposed he could just blame it on yet another of the pirate's oddities. Maybe he'd never gotten one before? That had to be it, he decided, sighing impatiently. "You heard me, a kiss. And not just any old one either. I need a really really good one, the best you can find, and as fast as you can."
It would be a perfect gift he knew, and besides, Hook was a grown up so maybe he would be able to find a better one? Peter didn't know, but if nothing else, it would be one less gift for him to go after himself.
Hook stared at him, bewildered, for a long, long moment. He really didn't comprehend what a kiss was, did he? And even after the one Wendy had given him, when all was said and done. Slowly, though, James' expression shuttered. A kiss. He tilted his chin up, glancing slowly from Peter's eyes to his mouth, then back again.
"You don't make life simple, I'll give you that much," James told him dryly, all amusement gone from his face, and for the serious expression, there was not a hint of scarlet in the blue of his eyes. If Peter had even wanted to win one over on James, this would be the ultimate one. Love, and all things connected to it, remained a touchy subject for the pirate. It was something he had tried to avoid for many years, and it was just typical that Pan should be the one to stir up the mess it had left in James.
He would find a way around it. He had to.
Green eyes met blue, though only briefly as he frowned once more and looked over the man's shoulder. Hook... wasn't leaving. Which was odd, because he would have to go find the gift, wouldn't he? Or perhaps Hook already had one he'd been saving as a gift of his own? But no, his mind argued, that didn't make sense either- because the pirate would never do such a thing. The boy was baffled, and for reasons unknown to him, his stomach felt as if it couldn't sit still.
It might have something to do with the instensity with which the pirate was regarding him.
Maybe...he didn't want to know.
Finally, Peter leaned away, head cocked to the side in an expression of unmasked curiosity. The comment didn't make much sense either, all things considered because in exchanging kisses with Wendy, it hadn't been a particularly hard gift for either of them. "Difficult?" Peter shook his head, growing impatient. "What are you waiting for? Do you have one already? Give it to me." It was a simple demand, and the boy looked at him with raised eyebrows, hand outstretched.
He hadn't just said that, had he? James' jaw locked defiantly, though his body rang with the unwanted desire to give the boy exactly what it was he asked for. Unwanted. That was exactly what James had decided it was. It definitely wasn't nerves that set his insides trembling, or turned his mouth dry and made him swallow in a vain attempt tp wet his tongue again.
This was not right.
It was the curse, that was all.
And yet his left hand came up, curled around the outstretched palm that Peter had offered. He pulled just slightly, bringing the boy close enough so that the captain's warm breath dusted from his lips and over Peter's wrist. He seemed to struggle with himself a moment, his gaze cutting away from the boy's face to the hand he had trapped. And somehow, miraculously, he managed to wrestle down the need to obey the command. Instead, swallowing, he said: "What do you think a kiss is, boy?" And though he tried to make it sound antagonistic, it came out too softly, and far too curious.
His mouth fell open partially, as if insulted that he'd been asked such a thing but in attempting to explain Peter found himself distracted. Warm breath ghosting across his wrist made his skin pebble and forced a chill up his spine. It was too hard to focus on trying to form the words, but he couldn't define why. All he knew was that it was getting harder and harder for him to draw in breaths- he swallowed hard, visibly rattled though he gave no explination as to the cause.
"I- it's- Of course I know what a kiss is!" He finally blurted out, and in his glare, embarrassment replaced anger. "Wendy gave me one and I gave her one! It's a powerful thing that makes people happy and-" Peter cut himself off, tugging at the hand that held his wrist captive. "Anyway, thats what I want so are you gonna give me one or not?"
"That wasn't my question," James said, his voice mild, and therefore showing exactly how dangerous a mood he was in at the moment. He tightened his grip on Pan's hand, refusing to allow the boy to escape. "I didn't ask if you know what it was, I asked what you thought it entailed." Because if Peter said he had given Wendy a kiss, and didn't know what it was-- then clearly they weren't on the same page here. And if he could just coax it from his rival... This wouldn't he half as bad as it could be.
"What kind of kiss, exactly, do you want?" He clarified, almost desperate, staring hard at the boy.
Hook was avoiding the topic again, and though he wasn't sure why he seemed so averse to getting the gift for him, Peter, was about an inch away from physically hurting the man. Hook couldn't really be that dense- right? His response was nearly a growl and more a frustrated shout. "I already told you, I want the absolute best one you can find, can you give it to me or not?!"
Apparently he had stalled for as long as this curse was possibly going to allow. He grunted, closed his eyes, a shiver chasing down his spine-- the order had been repeated thrice now-- and once again tried to stop the inevitable. But when he looked at his rival again, there was nothing for it. He swore softly under his breath and pulled down on Peter's wrist, forcing the boy to his level. The curved blade of his hook came up, flat against Peter's cheek in a mockery of holding his jaw, and tilting his head, James leaned up to press his lips to Peter's.
The forget-me-not of his eyes hid, as if not seeing what was happening would make it that much easier, but this close it was impossible for James to fool himself into thinking it was anyone but Peter Pan. James' mouth went surprisingly soft, pliant for the harsh man it belonged to, and half a moment into the kiss he pulled a little more on Peter's arm, so they aligned properly. His jaw relaxed, and without drawing back he exhaled against Peter's mouth.
Emerald eyes shot open and Peter could all but feel the heat rushing to his cheeks. Caught so entirely off guard, the boy couldn't so much as bring himself to blink, much less move and for one terrifying moment when Hook pressed further into the kiss- the boy could have sworn his heart had stopped cold. In all honesty he wasn't certain what to think, made painfully aware of the sensation, of warm lips pressed firmly against his own and time itself seemed suspended- the contact remaining for too long
...or perhaps not long enough.
It was that thought that propelled his body backwards, eyes bright but wild and a blush coloring his face. Up and backwards to try to hold onto something- anything for stability while he tried to make sense of what had happened. Unconsciously, slender fingers reached up to touch his own mouth, as if seeking confirmation of what had occurred- if they had really just...
"What did you-? I said I- I said I wanted a kiss not a- a thimble!" He stuttered, shaking his head as if such a thing would erase the moment altogether.
James was relieved when Peter jerked out of his reach, taking it for the opening it was and stepping back away from the boy. He was ready to snarl, and say something derisive-but the dumbstruck look on the fairy boy's face, accompanied with the blush, almost made it worth it. What the pirate didn't notice, though, was that he licked his lips before speaking.
"I asked you to clarify," He drawled, smirking and crossing his arms. "But you didn't listen, did you?" Although, now that Pan had said it, James suddenly understood what all that business with thimbles was back on the Jolly Roger. Though he still didn't understand how a thimble and a kiss were anything alike, or how Pan could have ever confused them. Obviously the blame went to the Wendy girl.
But, if there were other mix-ups during the day… Then maybe it wouldn't be quite so bad.
Still reeling, Peter swallowed hard. The other looked for all the world- quite pleased with the whole event and though he knew the man only wished to get the better of him once more, somehow the knowledge failed to ease the knot in his stomach.
"You were the one that didn't clarify! A thimble and a kiss aren't anything alike so why did you have to- to-" The boy was confused and what terrified him even more was recognition- after all, he could remember having that heavy feeling before, with Wendy.... Peter closed his eyes tight and shook his head once more, words starting as a growl and ending as a frustrated yell. "You're just like her! Messing everything up!"
Unable or unwilling to stay around the source that had caused the whole tangle of feelings to begin with Peter jerked- turning suddenly and flying away at top speed; almost desperate for the safety of his room.
James startled a little, blinking and giving his nemesis a strange sort of look in the silence between his trailing off and the latter accusatory explosion. This was all because of the torn expression on Pan's face, though. He hadn't expected that reaction whatsoever. Anger, yes, and childish indignation... but not that. It was only when Pan started shouting that some tension eased out of his shoulders-- though immediately a calculating look stole onto his face when the words registered.
Of course, James didn't have a lot of time to think on that statement, because as Pan tore off through the city, he felt an insistent tug just behind his naval. Pan had not, after all, revoked any of his previous orders. And so, cursing, the pirate captain lurched reluctantly into a sprint and followed Peter home.
Rating; PG-13 for thimble/kiss confusion ;3
Characters; Captain Jas. and Peter Pan
Summary; Servant!Hook and Master!Pan. 'nuff said.
Log;
Yawning for the upteenth time since he'd decided to roll out of bed that morning, Peter ran a hand through unruly blond hair and cast another glance at his roommate's room. The boy wizard had been unusually quiet lately and while Peter was intensely curious as to what the other was up to, he knew better than to pry. Howl could be testy when he was upset- and lately the wizard had been in a frightfully bad mood.
He sighed. Despite his desire to help the other out, Peter really didn't want to linger around the place. With a soft frown he began searching through the nearest drawer of clothing. His roommate had long ago insisted on getting rid of his normal attire, but when faced with the alternative? The frills and laces made him feel like a cupcake. Pair of pants in hand, he gripped a pantleg tightly, ripping them to end at the knee. That was suitable enough- and coupled with one of the wizard's white shirts with sleeves modified in a similar fashion- it was a far better solution. Dressed and long since fed, Peter made his way out of the building and headed towards the City's center. Even as early as it was, there was bound to be something interesting going on.
James, on the other hand, was wide awake. He had been, actually, since leaving Mars and Sarah's company the day prior. While at the witch's house, he had received a decent night's sleep, having been privy to a bath and a warm bed, as well as friendly company (which, contrary to popular belief, he was not against all of the time). Not to mention, the ticktock had been gone from his mind the entire time. Once parting with Mars, however, and wandering the City alone... the ticking had returned with a vengence. He had been able to ignore it while he explored the City, but with all distractions gone, he had been unable to get a good night's sleep.
Fortunately, James was used to such things, so even though he was up at what some might insist be an early hour, he was still feeling relatively refreshed. And ready to leave this metropolis. For all he had been told about it, its pretty lights and chrome and extravagance were not all that pleasing to the pirate captain. He much preferred Sarah's humble cabin in the forest. It was more what he was used to. If he was lucky, she may let him stay there for a while. Until he found a ship of his own, at least, even if it were anchored with no way of travel. Terra firma was no longer his home-- he belonged to the sea, and had since his youth. Besides, it would be easier to think with company around and the infernal ticking gone from his head.
Therefore, he was preparing to leave the place and hike back through the forest to the fair Sarah's home. He had a feeling it might take a good portion of the day, if he planned on memorizing the forest any better. And so far none of these 'curses' had popped up, so it was a good a day as any. Dusting off the cuff of his boot, checked to be sure all of his effects were in order, tugged on the scarlet fabric of his frock and headed off in the direction of the forest.
Floating lazily on his back with his arms folded behind his head, Peter let his body rise the wind's currents. December or not, the warmth of the sun was undeniable and the smile came easily to his face. From what he'd seen earlier, it looked as though most of the inhabitants were still sound asleep in their beds, though a few brave souls looked as if they'd decided to go christmas shopping.
Another yawn and the boy rolled in the air, savoring the feeling as wind rushed past his ears and tugged on his clothes. Christmas shopping, yes- he hadn't even begun. Peter looked to the side, chewing on his lip thoughtfully. He couldn't very well not get presents for his new friends, but he'd see to it later- when the sun didn't feel so warm on his back. He was half tempted to just stretch out someplace warm and relax. Not that he'd hadn't had a fitful night of sleep the night before, because he had, but he'd been restless for quite some time now and with no appealing alternative, curling up on the grass and lazing about all day seemed as good a plan as any.
But on the other hand, his mind supplied, if he did decide to sleep all day then even if something of interest -did- come up, he'd be too busy sleeping to take advantage of it. It was a good point and Peter laughed aloud. Sometimes his own genius amazed even him.
Another glance below let green eyes catch sight of his nemesis and Peter rolled though the air with a wide smile. Where oh where was Hook headed to now?
With the streets relatively empty, and the knowledge that the walk through the city might take some time (he was in no hurry, considering the hour), James took a moment to bask in the relative quiet. It was something he had not been able to do since the Wendy girl had arrived in Neverland-- such a ruckus, those children had caused-- and although it was late in winter, it was no where near as cold as it could get in Neverland. He closed his eyes briefly as he walked, feeling the warmth of the sun on his back, and smiling privately for it.
A moment later he fished in the pocket of his frock, pulling out his cigar holder, which was freshly reloaded with pilfered tobacco, and set to lighting it. A couple of puffs, and he sighed. The only thing that would put him further at ease would be for the incessant clock in his head to cease and desist. But alas, he doubted that would happen until he reached Sarah's home. As he turned down another street, the road that led to the forest and the ocean beyond, he pulled on his cigars and began singing under his breath. He found if he did, it provided at least some distraction from the ticking.
"Avast bely, yo ho, heave ho, a-pirating we go. And if we're parted by a shot, we're sure to meet below--"
A singing Hook was a new sight, though given a few moments to consider why he'd done so in the first place- it made sense. Peter himself was not immune to the City's tick-tocking, but he was certain that Hook was far more troubled by the sound than any other of the City's inhabitants. With a playful grin Peter flew closer, hovering only a few feet above the pirate. While he was feeling innocently mischievious and had no intention of physically harming the man unless the need should arise- it was too good of an oppertunity to pass up. He would have to be careful to keep his shadow out of the line of sight, and though he was grateful that the ticking had stopped when he got closer to the pirate, he didn't give it a second thought.
The cigar smoke however, caught him off guard and Peter had to hold a hand to his mouth to smother the cough that threatened to break loose. Shaking his head briefly, as if to ward it off, he reached out quickly, pushing the man's hat forward and nearly off his head before leaping up into the air once more.
Although Pan was able to keep his shadow out of sight, James went on alert before that. His cigars hovering just before his lips as the ticking faded from his mind. That could only mean one thing-- that somehow, someone had sidled up close to him without his noticing. Frowning just slightly, forget-me-nots slid from left to right, seeking out the individual who could have done such a thing. Had they been behind him, he would have heard.
Of course, how he didn't think to look up, all things conisdered, was rather silly. So Pan took him by surprise when his feathered hat was abruptly knocked askew. James stopped abruptly, tripping over himself with surprise when his sight was suddenly obscured. It helped in causing his hat to fall off, and catching himself, he snagged the flamboyant garment with the hook of his right hand in the same moment that he whirled around. This time his gaze snapped skywards, and he bristled, because Pan had caught him off guard.
"You!"
Nearly doubled over in laughter, Peter hovered in mid-air, sitting cross-legged and smiling victoriously. "Aye Hook, me!"
It wasn't often he was able to get the better of the pirate, at least not in such an obvious way. More often than not they would exchange taunts, Hook would attempt, like always, to try to kill him, and Peter then fully satisfied, would go on his merry way. The pirate had to have been deeply distracted to allow him to get so close- well within striking range in anycase. To see his foe trip over himself and nearly fall in the process had been a real treat, but not nearly as enjoyable as the lack of the man's usual dignified commentary in response.
Forget-me-nots narrowed as the captain pointedly set the hat atop his head. That was the second time in just as many days that Pan had one up on him, and he sneered at the boy. This was no good. James definitely needed to find a way to be rid of the tick-tock. It left him far too open to attack from his rival. Sure, it had been simply an undignified tip of his hat this time, but what if the boy had instead had a sword in his possession? Hook was making it entirely too easy for the fairy child.
However, he was distracted by Peter's attire very suddenly, the look on his face fading from rage into more something closer to disgust and perplexed amusement. In all the time Hook had known the boy, Peter had never worn such things as... normal clothing. Ripped up as they were, it still, somehow, made him look less like a wild boy and more like one who lived in a home. James wasn't sure whether to be hilarious amused by this, or totally appalled. "What in Hades are you wearing?"
Half prepared to shoot back a smart retort at the threat he had been certain Hook would give- the comment caught him off guard. What-? Peter's face fell briefly, puzzled as he grabbed the tattered edge of the bottom of his shirt to examine the cloth more closely. Though the wardrobe his roommate had provided at first was entirely too flashy and all together unpractical for flying, Peter had considered his modifications to the garments more than appropriate.
Face twisted into an almost pout, Peter shrugged, rolling once more to situate himself upsidedown and grin once more. "As if you're one to talk. They're clothes!" He insisted, voice cracking at the exclaimation before a look of shock made it's way across his face and he shut his mouth tight- glaring.
His eyebrows shot up, James straightening, chin lifting to look at Pan in a sideways manner. His smile was slow and calculating. "Ah... My, my, my..." He chuckled, from somewhere low in his throat. So there had been some truth to Mars' words after all. "So it isn't just real clothing that's changed about you, is it?" The pirate asked venomously, the smile still on his face.
James crossed his arms, hook cradled in the crook of his elbow, cigars held up so as not to burn his jacket. Yes, there was no mistaking it. The crack was not just a slip of the vocal chords. And judging from Peter's reaction, it wasn't the first... unusual thing to happen.
Arms crossed indignantly once more, Peter sat upright, looking down at the man with a frown before dismissing it entirely. While it was true that the problems with his voice had been the very least of his worries, he certainly wasn't about to let Captain James Hook get the better of him once more. If all their previous fights had taught him anything, it was that the pirate would always result to bouts of verbal sparring. It made sense really, since Peter held the upperhand more often than not- that when brute strength wasn't enough, Hook began saying those...things.
The boy shook his head with a shrug, smile once again playing on his lips as he leaned forward swipe at the man's hat again. "I don't know what you're rambling about old man. Why don't you admit that you're just jealous?"
James jerked away from hand questing for his hat, leaning away and lifting his chin so as to take the feathered garment out of Peter's range. He bristled at the old man comment, as he always did, but with the second question, his eyes narrowed and a peculiar expression crossed his face. He was jealous of Pan, wasn't he? Though that was only one of the many emotions that warred within the pirate over the boy. Before he could stop the internal speculation, his mouth was open, and he started to admit exactly what Peter wanted to hear:
"Fine. I am jea--"
But he swiftly snapped his mouth shut, eyes blown wide with horror. He reeled away, three steps back, from the flying boy. His arms uncrossed and he stared, apalled, at his rival. What in the name of Lucifer had compelled him to even think of saying such a thing?
Peter himself wore a matching expression, eyes wide with shock. In all the years he had known the man, in the years they'd each spent memorizing and analyzing the intimate details of one another, never, -never- would he have expected to actually hear such a thing from the pirate. The sheer surprise nearly knocked him out of the air and he managed to catch himself before rising slowly to meet the man's eyes.
Judging from the look on his face, Hook hadn't meant to say such a thing to begin with and ordinarily would have-
Ordinarily.
The bewildered expression slowly gave way to a wicked grin. Another curse, of course- though the extent of which he didn't know but really, there was only one way to find out. "Hook..." He drawled sweetly, eyes brimming with curiousity and delight, "touch your finger to your nose."
James' jaw locked firmly, the horror and confusion still clear in the pale of his eyes. He stiffened when Pan rose up right before him, and had every intention of turning tail and running-- or at least going for his sword-- but found he couldn't do a thing. And while he never trusted Pan's intentions before-- now, with that misleading honey-sweet smile on his face... James trusted him even less.
"Ridiculous. Why wo--" Once again, the words dried up in his throat as he was compelled out of his own accord to lift his left hand and touch his index finger to his nose. As soon as it was done, though, the hand closed into a fist and he snapped it away from his face. "What the hell are you doing?" He snarled accusingly, confusion giving way to the anger that came with humiliation. The hook of his right hand lifted, and eyes flashing red, he made to advance on Peter, homicide written all over his face.
As his hand went to his face, Peter feel a rush of victory course through him. So it was true, today's curse had the pirate obeying every word he said, but the laugh died on his lips as he saw the change in Hook's eyes. Blue to violent red and Peter swallowed hard, determined to hold his ground. Of course the pirate would attempt to kill him, no doubt believing that his new weakness had been created by the boy himself. Perhaps, when his life was no longer in danger, he would explain it to the man.
"Stop trying to hurt me!" He commanded- and though only moments ago he'd been rejoicing in his newfound ability, the idea of putting his life in the hands of one of the City's strange curses....was easier said than done.
Hook drew up short, as if he had run into a wall, or his body had been frozen to the spot. For a moment, his jaw tightened, and he looked as though he were struggling against an invisible force. Then, with a frustrated growl, he wrenched the hook from the air, it returning to his side. And he could do nothing to stop it, either. At that very moment, there was nothing James would have loved more than to disembowl the little brat. And yet-- and yet he couldn't. The command, it went straight through his core and halted his ability to lift the hook again. He wanted to, oh yes, but it was impossible.
"What have you done to me?" James whispered viciously, his eyes a brilliant crimson, and though he was all but shaking with rage, there was uncertainty underneath it all. James was not used to having all control taken from him. His whole life revolved around his ability to remain on top, nigh untouched, unshakeable. And it was no surprise that it would be Peter to do... whatever this was... to him. Ever since their meeting, the boy had been throwing him curve balls, keeping him on his toes, leaving him off kilter like no other was able to.
But this... this was unnerving.
He managed to barely restrain a sigh of relief, and now confidant that there was no danger, Peter let himself sink to the ground, bare feet landing on the cool earth below. While he was used to maintaining an advange of some sort around the pirate, this new ability was frighteningly more effective than any trick he'd ever employed. Still, the curse would end at some point, and should Hook assume he'd done this entirely of his own ability there was no doubt there would be hell to pay.
If he wanted to be able to live a halfway decent life he would have to explain it to the pirate, and explination meant that he'd have to do his best not to flaunt his victory. Grounding himself should help, if only a fraction. It meant that he was on Hook's footing and on top of that, giving the man the advantage of his height. Regardless, he still didn't feel entirely safe. "I haven't done anything. It's another curse day I think." He offered, struggling to keep his voice calm and neutral, almost as if trying to reassure a dangerous animal.
His left hand flexed of its own accord, as if itching to curl around Pan's neck and throttle the life out of him. But Hook couldn't bring himself to take those few steps and close the distance between them. Pan had ordered him against taken such action, and he couldn't bring himself to defy the command. So instead, his lips curled into a derisive sneer.
"A curse day," He retorted, mockery in his tone. So this was a curse day, was it? This was what they meant when they said they could only get worse, and that the past two had been relatively harmless. Well, James could easily, and readily, agree with them now. James bristled again. Then why was he at Pan's mercy, instead of someone elses? What kind of sick and twisted place was this? "I find it quite difficult to believe you did not have some sort of... say in this situation," He growled, diction incredibly polite, but the look on his face nothing less then unadultered hate.]
His eyes said it all- glinting with murderous intent coupled with the complete inability to follow through. In hindsight, it was a good thing the curse had worked the way it did. Had it been Peter at Hook's command- he doubted the man would be nearly as merciful. When it became clear that his attempts at civility were going entirely unnoticed, Peter took to the air once more, sitting cross-legged and upside down. "It wasn't my doing, but I'm not complaining" he teased with a smile. If nothing else, the curse would only last until midnight so if he planned on exploiting Hook, he couldn't very well waste his time. Still, as ready as he was to have fun, there were a few details that he'd wanted to know first.
The boy leaned forward as he plucked the hat from the man's head and placed it securely on his own. "Tell me where you're staying."
James made to snatch for his hat, scarlet eyes narrowing with contempt at the pretty little picture Peter made with it atop his head. The question, however, was easy to avoid. Perhaps if he simply took everything Pan said at face value, this day would not turn out as terrible as it very well good. It sent a shiver of trepidation down James' spine, the knowledge that Peter could make him say-- admit to anything. Things he hadn't told another living soul since his last trusted confidante had died.
"Currently? No place," He snapped, and turned on heel in preparation to walk away, as if not looking at Pan might help with his new-- albeit rather weak-- plan. It was true, though. He hadn't asked Sarah yet if he could stay at her place. For all she knew, he could be dropping in for a short visit. Although it was his intention to remain in her home for a longer period of time.
Realization dawning on his face, Peter narrowed his eyes. The pirate certainly was skilled at finding loopholes, but he wouldn't let such a thing stop him. Still, he didn't quite understand that flicker of....fear perhaps, that passed over his enemy's face. But then, the pirate was already attempting to make a speedy escape and if he did so, Peter would never get his answers.
"Don't leave my side all day!" He called, arms crossed as he adamantly refused to chase after the man. If Hook was going to be difficult about it, then he held no reservations about doing the same.
James froze, body seizing up, arms lifting slightly as if Peter had physically cuffed him upside the back of the head, not simply issued an order. A moment later he relaxed, standing straight and closing his eyes, mentally counting down from ten in latin. Pan was grating on every last nerve he had, but if things were to continue this way... Well, the pirate had no choice. He would simply have to find every loophole he could, and maybe, if he was lucky, he could escape this before the day was out.
With a soft growl, he dropped his cigars back in his pocket-- they had since gone out-- and crossed his arms. Why in the world Peter would want to have him around, aside from the obvious, was beyond James. But fine. He could play along-- as long as it didn't get out of hand.
He turned just slightly, looking at the floating boy over his shoulder. "That could prove difficult," He snarked, "Considering that, of the two of us, I cannot flit about at will."
The boy looked thoughtful for a moment, as if he hadn't considered such a detail to begin with- and he hadn't, but his feet touched the ground once more regardless. Aside from his complaints, the man was certainly going to be troublesome and he heaved a sigh at the thought. Hands came to rest at his waist and he leaned forward as if examining the pirate, brows knitted tightly together and lips pursed. Hook had a nasty habit of making everything far more difficult than it had to be, which often resulting in upping the ante, which in turn had to be held responsible for numerous unpleasant outcomes.
"Tell me where you were headed before I stopped you just a moment ago."
James grit his teeth, both at the question and at the pose the boy had taken. Pan was insufferably at the best of times, but now that he held this... whatever it was, over Hook's head, the pirate found it even harder to deal with without completely losing his temper. Which would do nothing but make him look silly, in this situation. Since he couldn't do anything without Pan's approval.
"The forest," He growled, though it came out grudgingly, and where the red of his eyes had faded a little, they lit up once again.
An eyebrow arched once more and he leaned in closer- if only to make the man feel more ill at ease. "Where at in the forest?" he pushed, unflinching at the sudden change in Hook's demeanor. He'd expected to annoy him, to make him angry in one way or another but that was hardly the purpose of his questioning. After all, had Hook himself not threatened to hunt him down only a day or so earlier? Turn about was fair play after all- and yet the tone of the other's voice sounded disturbingly like he was pouting.
Peter struggled not to smile.
"It really is no business of yours whe--,"And still, as much as he wanted to avoid the question with pretty words, they were cut short as he blurted, "A cabin," And then had to fight the urge to press the heel of his palm to his forehead. Instead, he pursed his mouth and closed his eyes once more with annoyance, opening them after a moment-- half-lidded-- to look at Peter sideways. He refused to face the boy full on.
"You, are enjoying this far too much," James muttered. Though, truth be told, if their positions were reversed-- he would be doing the exactly same thing, if not more.
Where Hook had felt the urge to knock Peter around only moments earlier- the boy was now mirroring that impulse. Pursed lips became a half frown and his eyes narrowed. A pout that bordered becoming a glare. He was getting annoyed and rightfully so, though if nothing else, he got satisfaction from seeing how entirely displeased the pirate was at the entire scenario. It meant bragging rights after all, and at this rate- rights that Peter would have no qualms about flaunting. "Stop making things difficult. Who's cabin?"
"A witch's," He said quickly, maliciously, and finally turned on Peter, uncrossing his arms and advancing on the boy. "Though it hardly matters, as I will be returning to a ship as quickly as possible." He stopped right in front of Peter, eyes narrowed as he looked down at him. He still had the look about him of a cobra ready to strike, but not yet did he show any signs of actually attacking the fairy child. Not that he could, as the order from minutes ago still rang like a bell through his sea-weathered body.
Peter looked up at the man, green eyes meeting blue and glinting dangerously. Whether he chose to say anything or not, the action spoke volumes; not arrogance or defiance but a simple declaration- I am not afraid of you. He did not flinch, though his body instinctively wished to recoil, to move away from danger. When he finally did speak however, his eyes remained trained on the man before him, voice low "Tell me her name."
After all this time, James still had to smirk inwardly at the bravery Peter showed. He was perhaps the only person Hook had met that could stand and meet his gaze unflinchingly. At first this had annoyed him-- how dare someone not fear him? The Sea-Cook himself had. Captain Jas. Hook was a terror of the seven seas, and then some. It had become his goal to gain and uphold that title with fierce dignity. The fact that Pan could defy him of it... well, now James saw it a as challenge. It was refreshing, though he did not ever plan on revealing this. To anyone.
"Sarah," He finally said upon leaning down to the boy, and his voice was almost a purr, pitched so low that only Peter would have heard him if anyone else had been walking by. His mouth curled into a derisive smile, for really, did it really matter that Peter knew where he lived? He had known that he lived upon the Jolly Roger, after all. "And again, she is a witch. Witches, as you should know, are not to be trifled with. Nor are those she has an... interest in." And though he said the final words with a suggestive twist, he expected it to go right over Peter's head, as these things usually did.
Though after Wendy... maybe not.
The purred commentary earned a hateful glare and the boy's hands curled into fists at his sides. Hook had always been annoyingly good at provoking him into outright rage and what irked him further was that Peter himself was uncertain as to why the response angered him so. "I am sure you two are very happy together" he growled, hand reaching out to steal the man's hat once more. "Stop trying to take the hat back." He added, pushing it onto his head once more.
Peter was aggravated and set on edge- which only served to annoy him further. What should he care, after all, if his only nemesis had settled down with some pretty blond witch in a cabin in the woods? Tugging the brim of the hat low, to cover his eyes, Peter took a breath. More of those feelings he'd been trying to avoid. Unpleasant things that they were, and they got in the way of having fun. "Hook, call yourself a codfish." He said simply, half-heartedly trying to cajole himself into a better mood. It wouldn't do to hand the victory over to the pirate when so much of fate was already on his side.
James smirked, pleased with the reaction, though the smirk fell away just as quickly as it appeared when Peter snatched the hat again. Irked further when the boy idly told him not to take it back. It may have been an off-hand comment, but it lanced through Hook like an order to a well-trained dog. As was becoming the norm with these commands, James stiffened briefly and withdrew from the boy's personal space, straightening to his full height.
He had meant for the comment to knock Pan back, but even James was a touch surprised by the crisp reaction from the boy. Really, it was almost silly for Peter to believe him so easily. James was, as he so aptly put it, alone and unloved, and that was how he expected it to remain. These dark thoughts were quickly shoved aside, though, by Peter's newest order.
"I--" He started, then bit down on his lower lip in an attempt to stop from saying just that. "A--" Twice he managed to stop himself before helplessly blurting out: "Hook is a codfish." Once it was out there, though, he growled, threw up both arms and turned to walk away from Pan. He didn't get very far, though. The boy had ordered him to stay nearby, so he ended up taking about five paces before turning and retracing three steps. His eyes flashed red briefly before settling back into the forget-me-not blue, the pirate crossing his arms and, for all intents and purposes, sulking quietly.
The ploy worked and Peter chuckled softly. He hated being in a bad mood and was dismayed when he first learned that such things were not as easily forgotten as they ordinarily were. Given time however, though he'd been unable to avoid such things altogether, he'd at least found ways to get around such things- like hearing Hook call himself a codfish which had proven to be more than effective.
He tilted the hat back a fraction, enjoying the quasi-power symbol for what it was- even if it happened to be ridiuclously overdecorated. Still, he supposed he could see why the pirate was so partial to it. "Hook..." He paused, chewing his bottom lip once more. It would be a waste to have such unlimited power for the day and do nothing with it but he also had some Christmas shopping to do..."I know! Hook, help me with my Christmas shopping." Smiling widely, his hands went to his waist once more, obviously pleased with himself. It wouldn't be too difficult a task- he acknowledged. "I only have a few things to get; something pretty for Namine and Holly, something for Luffy..." he paused mid-sentence, scrutinizing Hook before asking suddenly "What do pirates want for presents?"
Here it comes, James thought demurely as Pan muttered his name thoughtfully. When the boy seemed to struck with a thought, and announced Christmas shopping, of all things, he was at first relieved that it wasn't something worse-- and then immediately realized what it was Pan had just ordered him to do. Completely aghast-- Christmas shopping?!-- he almost completely missed the second question.
"I will do no such thing," He denied immediately, but though he said it, his mind was already going to what sort of presents girls, and pirates, would like. "I suppose we'll have to see, won't we?" He asked, and then scowled darkly at the boy, because it would likely be like this all day. Hook saying things he would never, ever say-- especially around his rival.
Ruddy brilliant.
Ignoring the other's commentary entirely, Peter's eyes lit up with childlike enthusiasm. Christmas in Neverland had been fun, but having Christmas here in the City with all new presents and people....it would be perfect! "Here, you can go find me an easy one..." Brows furrowed once more and though he hadn't consciously decided to do so, his body had instinctively risen a few inches in the air.
He had to get something for his roomma- for Howl. If only to make sure he didn't start crying because he didn't get anything. But the man had been depressed lately...
And as suddenly as the question had come, and answer was provided. Wendy had said kisses were special and powerful and always made people feel better, it would be the perfect gift for Howl! "I want a kiss." He said simply, leaning in closer to the pirate as he gave the instructions, "You can leave my side only to find the best kiss in the entire City but then you have to bring it back here for me before sundown at the latest. Understand?"
With a shake of his head, blue eyes cut off to the side. He had never really liked Christmas, or hadn't for a long time, and though he had permitted his crew the gift exchange, he had made it perfectly clear that if he heard a whisper of the merriment that they would be meeting Davy Jones' Locker much sooner in their careers than they wanted to. He found Peter's enthusiasm was almost offensive. And to make matters worse, he would have to find the bloody gift, because this stupid curse wouldn't let him run off on his own.
When Peter suddenly announced he wanted a kiss, James startled and looked sharply back to him. Of course, it was only to meet the bright green of his eyes entirely too close for comfort. The captain recoiled just a little a little, taken off guard for the second time that day. Okay. So he had permission to leave, but... For the love of Hades. "You want a what?" He asked, entirely deadpan, and hoping to the stars he had not heard correctly.
Brows knotted together once more, clearly confused as to why his request had earned such a reaction. Still, the boy supposed he could just blame it on yet another of the pirate's oddities. Maybe he'd never gotten one before? That had to be it, he decided, sighing impatiently. "You heard me, a kiss. And not just any old one either. I need a really really good one, the best you can find, and as fast as you can."
It would be a perfect gift he knew, and besides, Hook was a grown up so maybe he would be able to find a better one? Peter didn't know, but if nothing else, it would be one less gift for him to go after himself.
Hook stared at him, bewildered, for a long, long moment. He really didn't comprehend what a kiss was, did he? And even after the one Wendy had given him, when all was said and done. Slowly, though, James' expression shuttered. A kiss. He tilted his chin up, glancing slowly from Peter's eyes to his mouth, then back again.
"You don't make life simple, I'll give you that much," James told him dryly, all amusement gone from his face, and for the serious expression, there was not a hint of scarlet in the blue of his eyes. If Peter had even wanted to win one over on James, this would be the ultimate one. Love, and all things connected to it, remained a touchy subject for the pirate. It was something he had tried to avoid for many years, and it was just typical that Pan should be the one to stir up the mess it had left in James.
He would find a way around it. He had to.
Green eyes met blue, though only briefly as he frowned once more and looked over the man's shoulder. Hook... wasn't leaving. Which was odd, because he would have to go find the gift, wouldn't he? Or perhaps Hook already had one he'd been saving as a gift of his own? But no, his mind argued, that didn't make sense either- because the pirate would never do such a thing. The boy was baffled, and for reasons unknown to him, his stomach felt as if it couldn't sit still.
It might have something to do with the instensity with which the pirate was regarding him.
Maybe...he didn't want to know.
Finally, Peter leaned away, head cocked to the side in an expression of unmasked curiosity. The comment didn't make much sense either, all things considered because in exchanging kisses with Wendy, it hadn't been a particularly hard gift for either of them. "Difficult?" Peter shook his head, growing impatient. "What are you waiting for? Do you have one already? Give it to me." It was a simple demand, and the boy looked at him with raised eyebrows, hand outstretched.
He hadn't just said that, had he? James' jaw locked defiantly, though his body rang with the unwanted desire to give the boy exactly what it was he asked for. Unwanted. That was exactly what James had decided it was. It definitely wasn't nerves that set his insides trembling, or turned his mouth dry and made him swallow in a vain attempt tp wet his tongue again.
This was not right.
It was the curse, that was all.
And yet his left hand came up, curled around the outstretched palm that Peter had offered. He pulled just slightly, bringing the boy close enough so that the captain's warm breath dusted from his lips and over Peter's wrist. He seemed to struggle with himself a moment, his gaze cutting away from the boy's face to the hand he had trapped. And somehow, miraculously, he managed to wrestle down the need to obey the command. Instead, swallowing, he said: "What do you think a kiss is, boy?" And though he tried to make it sound antagonistic, it came out too softly, and far too curious.
His mouth fell open partially, as if insulted that he'd been asked such a thing but in attempting to explain Peter found himself distracted. Warm breath ghosting across his wrist made his skin pebble and forced a chill up his spine. It was too hard to focus on trying to form the words, but he couldn't define why. All he knew was that it was getting harder and harder for him to draw in breaths- he swallowed hard, visibly rattled though he gave no explination as to the cause.
"I- it's- Of course I know what a kiss is!" He finally blurted out, and in his glare, embarrassment replaced anger. "Wendy gave me one and I gave her one! It's a powerful thing that makes people happy and-" Peter cut himself off, tugging at the hand that held his wrist captive. "Anyway, thats what I want so are you gonna give me one or not?"
"That wasn't my question," James said, his voice mild, and therefore showing exactly how dangerous a mood he was in at the moment. He tightened his grip on Pan's hand, refusing to allow the boy to escape. "I didn't ask if you know what it was, I asked what you thought it entailed." Because if Peter said he had given Wendy a kiss, and didn't know what it was-- then clearly they weren't on the same page here. And if he could just coax it from his rival... This wouldn't he half as bad as it could be.
"What kind of kiss, exactly, do you want?" He clarified, almost desperate, staring hard at the boy.
Hook was avoiding the topic again, and though he wasn't sure why he seemed so averse to getting the gift for him, Peter, was about an inch away from physically hurting the man. Hook couldn't really be that dense- right? His response was nearly a growl and more a frustrated shout. "I already told you, I want the absolute best one you can find, can you give it to me or not?!"
Apparently he had stalled for as long as this curse was possibly going to allow. He grunted, closed his eyes, a shiver chasing down his spine-- the order had been repeated thrice now-- and once again tried to stop the inevitable. But when he looked at his rival again, there was nothing for it. He swore softly under his breath and pulled down on Peter's wrist, forcing the boy to his level. The curved blade of his hook came up, flat against Peter's cheek in a mockery of holding his jaw, and tilting his head, James leaned up to press his lips to Peter's.
The forget-me-not of his eyes hid, as if not seeing what was happening would make it that much easier, but this close it was impossible for James to fool himself into thinking it was anyone but Peter Pan. James' mouth went surprisingly soft, pliant for the harsh man it belonged to, and half a moment into the kiss he pulled a little more on Peter's arm, so they aligned properly. His jaw relaxed, and without drawing back he exhaled against Peter's mouth.
Emerald eyes shot open and Peter could all but feel the heat rushing to his cheeks. Caught so entirely off guard, the boy couldn't so much as bring himself to blink, much less move and for one terrifying moment when Hook pressed further into the kiss- the boy could have sworn his heart had stopped cold. In all honesty he wasn't certain what to think, made painfully aware of the sensation, of warm lips pressed firmly against his own and time itself seemed suspended- the contact remaining for too long
...or perhaps not long enough.
It was that thought that propelled his body backwards, eyes bright but wild and a blush coloring his face. Up and backwards to try to hold onto something- anything for stability while he tried to make sense of what had happened. Unconsciously, slender fingers reached up to touch his own mouth, as if seeking confirmation of what had occurred- if they had really just...
"What did you-? I said I- I said I wanted a kiss not a- a thimble!" He stuttered, shaking his head as if such a thing would erase the moment altogether.
James was relieved when Peter jerked out of his reach, taking it for the opening it was and stepping back away from the boy. He was ready to snarl, and say something derisive-but the dumbstruck look on the fairy boy's face, accompanied with the blush, almost made it worth it. What the pirate didn't notice, though, was that he licked his lips before speaking.
"I asked you to clarify," He drawled, smirking and crossing his arms. "But you didn't listen, did you?" Although, now that Pan had said it, James suddenly understood what all that business with thimbles was back on the Jolly Roger. Though he still didn't understand how a thimble and a kiss were anything alike, or how Pan could have ever confused them. Obviously the blame went to the Wendy girl.
But, if there were other mix-ups during the day… Then maybe it wouldn't be quite so bad.
Still reeling, Peter swallowed hard. The other looked for all the world- quite pleased with the whole event and though he knew the man only wished to get the better of him once more, somehow the knowledge failed to ease the knot in his stomach.
"You were the one that didn't clarify! A thimble and a kiss aren't anything alike so why did you have to- to-" The boy was confused and what terrified him even more was recognition- after all, he could remember having that heavy feeling before, with Wendy.... Peter closed his eyes tight and shook his head once more, words starting as a growl and ending as a frustrated yell. "You're just like her! Messing everything up!"
Unable or unwilling to stay around the source that had caused the whole tangle of feelings to begin with Peter jerked- turning suddenly and flying away at top speed; almost desperate for the safety of his room.
James startled a little, blinking and giving his nemesis a strange sort of look in the silence between his trailing off and the latter accusatory explosion. This was all because of the torn expression on Pan's face, though. He hadn't expected that reaction whatsoever. Anger, yes, and childish indignation... but not that. It was only when Pan started shouting that some tension eased out of his shoulders-- though immediately a calculating look stole onto his face when the words registered.
Of course, James didn't have a lot of time to think on that statement, because as Pan tore off through the city, he felt an insistent tug just behind his naval. Pan had not, after all, revoked any of his previous orders. And so, cursing, the pirate captain lurched reluctantly into a sprint and followed Peter home.