Sails of Destiny

Return to the Sea

The morning sun was just beginning to rise as Amira and Killian stood at the gates of the castle, ready to depart. Snow and Charming had come to see them off, along with Johanna, who had decided to stay behind for a time. Amira embraced her sister one last time, the warmth of the goodbye settling in her chest.

"I'll miss you, but I know where you belong now," Snow said softly, a small smile playing on her lips. "And besides, you'll come visit."

Amira chuckled, nodding. "You know I will. Just try not to get into too much trouble while I'm gone."

Snow laughed and pulled back, handing Amira a small pouch filled with supplies. "We packed some things for your journey—food, fresh clothes, and a few little gifts for the crew. Consider it a parting gift."

"Thank you," Amira replied, her voice full of gratitude.

Johanna stepped forward, giving Amira a warm hug. "Take care of yourself out there. I'll be here for Snow if she needs me, so don't worry."

Amira smiled, touched by Johanna's words. "Thank you, Johanna. You always take care of everything."

With their goodbyes said, Amira and Killian made their way down to the docks where the Jolly Roger awaited. The sight of the ship brought a sense of relief and excitement flooding through Amira. She was finally returning to the place where she truly felt alive.

Once they reached the ship, Killian turned to her, a playful smile tugging at his lips. "Ready, Captain?"

Amira stopped, her brow furrowing as she looked at him. Captain? She was the one giving orders lately, but the Jolly Roger was still Killian's ship—his crew, his command. For a moment, she wondered if her role had shifted without her realizing it.

"Captain?" she echoed, raising an eyebrow.

Killian chuckled, climbing aboard and offering her a hand. "Well, you've been running things lately. Maybe it's time I promoted you."

Amira smiled, but there was something about his words that gave her pause. She glanced up at the sails, then at the crew bustling about, preparing for their departure. This was Killian's life, his ship. She could navigate and lead on her own, but she'd never take that title from him.

"No," she said after a moment, taking his hand and stepping aboard. "This is your ship, Killian. You're the Captain. I'm just lucky enough to sail beside you."

Killian's expression softened, and he nodded, accepting her words. "Aye, love. Together, then."

They exchanged a look of understanding before turning to the crew, ready to set sail. The wind began to pick up, and the sea called to them once more, its endless horizon promising adventure and freedom.

As they pulled away from the dock, Amira stood by the helm, watching the castle grow smaller in the distance. She had made her choice. The open sea was where she belonged, and as long as she had Killian by her side, she knew they would face whatever lay ahead together.

The Jolly Roger sailed smoothly across the open sea, the sun hanging high above, casting a golden glow over the waters. Amira stood at the helm, leaning against Killian as he steered. The breeze tugged at her hair, and she closed her eyes, feeling the familiar freedom that only the sea could offer. For the first time in weeks, she felt truly at ease—back in her element, without the weight of responsibilities that came with castle life.

Killian's arm, the one with the hook, wrapped around her, holding her close to his side. She could feel the cool metal against her back, but it wasn't uncomfortable. Instead, it reminded her of his strength, his resilience, and the unspoken promise that he would always be there with her.