Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The streets of Paris, on a bright and warm January day. The city was buzzing with activity, for today was the best day of the year. The Feast of Fools. A day where everything was upside down. Every man a king and every king a fool. It was also, one might expect, the biggest day for tourism in all of Paris.

People come from far and wide to see amazing performances, participate in games and tournaments, and enjoy the local food and drink. The latter being the reason why one James Hook found himself sitting at a table with a large mug of ale.

Well, that and the insistence of one God of the dead who he had just learned just needed an excuse so his wife would allow him to go to the festival. C'mon, man, this whole thing is right up your alley. Drinks, food, smoking babes, what's not to like?

Now here Hook sat, trying to quietly drink the day away while Hades kept making bets and deals with the tourists. Why anyone believed that man was a mystery to Hook.

Of course, I did agree to go with him. Hook thought, taking another drink from his cup. The ale was pretty okay, better than the swill he got in most taverns, but it was worse than pretty much anything the Captain had had on the Jolly Roger.

The thought of the ship and its fate made James sigh, and he took a long swig of his ale. Thankfully it was at this point that Hades sauntered over to him. Unfortunately, Hades had a look on his face that Hook knew all too well. He was about to ask him to help with one of his deals.

"Whatever it is, no." The Captain said immediately.

"I haven't even said what it is yet!" Hades replied.

Hook eyed him. "The last time I helped you with something like this, I was nearly dragged away by voodoo shadow monsters!"

"Hold on now, that wasn't entirely my fault. I didn't know he had magic powers, I just thought he liked creepy masks and dolls. Plus, this time is entirely different. I know for a fact there ain't no magic involved."

Hook stared for a moment before relenting. "I don't trust what you have in store, but I am willing to listen to your scheme."

Hades grinned. "Knew I could get you on board babe. So here's the deal, I met this fella and he told me that there was a tournament happening. A sword fighting competition. Now this guy said he had a friend entering the competition that no one could beat. A modern Perseus. I told him that I knew a guy who would wipe the floor with him and he said that if his guy lost to my guy he'd hand over his entire wallet."

"I imagine when you say you knew a guy, that guy would be me?" Hook said.

"Bingo!" Hades replied.

"And what, pray tell, do I get out of it?"

"Well, obviously, you'd get half the earnings and if you manage to win the entire competition, there's apparently a prize."

"What is this prize?" Hook asked with an eyebrow raised.

"The guy didn't say. But, I am sure it'll be well worth it." Hades added quickly.

"And how rich did this man look?"

"Richer than Midas." Hades' grin widened.

Hook sat thinking for a moment. "Mmmmm, alright, I'll do it. But if this all blows up in our faces, you cover me for dinner every night for a week."

"Hooky, baby, you can trust me. This'll be easier than when Alexander cut the Gordian knot." Hades stated.

"If you say so." Hook maligned before following Hades to where the tournament sign-up was being held.

~~~

As soon as he had gotten in line for the sign-ups, Hook could feel the stares and sneers of every passerby and fellow competitor. When he reached the table to sign up, the soldiers tending it took one look at him before one with a mustache said firmly. "Sorry, sir, but you aren't allowed to sign up."

"I beg your pardon?" Hook said, leaning on the table a bit.

"He said you can't sign up. Now beat it ya' pirate." The other man said, leaning forward.

"Why not?" The Captain said curtly.

"Because we said so! Now, either leave now or I'll arrest you." The man with the mustache said. He stood and leveled his eyes with the pirate's.

Hook was about to flip the table over and bring out his rapier when he heard a man shout. "What are you three doing?"

When Hook turned he saw a tall blonde man with a patch of hair on his chin wearing full golden armor. Before the two soldiers could respond, Hook said angrily. "These two are refusing to allow me to join the tournament. They refused to explain why and after I asked they threatened to arrest me!"

"Is that right?" The golden man asked. "Tell me men, why exactly are you not allowing our hook-handed friend here to join the competition?"

The mustachioed man spoke first. "Well, Captain, we can't allow the likes of him to join!"

"Why not?" The apparent Captain asked.

The other man spoke. "He'll cheat! He'll use his hook or his pistol!"

"Well if that happens we'll just disqualify him." The Captain stated. "Besides, it's my competition, and I can allow whoever I want to join."

Hook, along with everyone else, was stunned. He couldn't believe that someone who wasn't a villain had taken his side.

Before the soldiers could protest further, the Captain handed Hook the sign-up sheet and Hook wrote his signature in beautiful cursive. With that he handed the sheet back to the soldiers and followed after the man who had helped.

"Excuse me, my good man." Hook said while tapping on the stranger's shoulder.

The yellow plated man turned around with a polite smile. "Yes?"

"I would like to thank you very much for your assistance. It is rare to meet a man with such a sense of honor." Hook said kindly.

"Thank you sir-"

"Oh, but where are my manners? I haven't even introduced myself. I am Captain James Hook, at your service." Hook bowed and took off his hat. "What is your name, kind sir?"

"I'm Phoebus, Captain of the Paris guard." He said.

Hook stood and put his hat back on. "Well, Captain Phoebus, it is an honor to meet you. Tell me, did I hear correctly that this tournament is, in fact, hosted by you?"

Phoebus chuckled. "Yes, but don't worry, I won't be participating. My wife forbade it. She doesn't want me to completely wreck the competition."

"Yes well, that's a shame, I would have loved the opportunity to cross blades with a man of your caliber." Hook said snidely.

Before they could continue, trumpets blared in the distance. "Ah, that would be the start of the competition." Phoebus said. "I suppose I should head to my seat. Good luck, Captain James. You'll need it."

Hook smiled. "Thank you, Captain Phoebus. Enjoy the tournament!"

The two Captains parted and after walking for a bit, Hook frowned slightly. "Captain James?"

Chapter Text

"He called you 'Captain James'?" Hades asked.

Hook had gone into the preparation area to get ready for his first match and Hades had joined him, claiming to be his "coach". The tournament itself worked on a bracket system so each contestant had some time between matches.

"That isn't the point." Said Hook. "The point is that every single person in that arena from the guards to the spectators is going to focus on me. They'll scrutinize every swing, every step, and every breath."

"No offense, but that ain't too different from how people usually treat us."

"Blast it man! You know what all that means? It means I won't get away with anything! Even the slightest technicality will have me thrown out of the whole tournament!" Hook shouted.

"Woah, Hooky, no need to get angry." Hades put a hand on Hook's shoulder and sat him down. "You're a pirate, and an expert duelist. I'm sure you'll beat these guys' tuchuses quicker than you can say the hymn to Demeter."

Hook sighed. "I…suppose you have a point." Hook grinned. "Plus, these men have probably been drinking all day long."

Hades smiled. "Exactly, nothing to worry about. Now, I think your match is about to start so give 'em some me will ya?"

Hook chuckled as he walked away. "I certainly will."

~~~

The arena was a medium sized rectangle of dirt with nothing in it. It was surrounded on all sides by bleachers with a tiny entrance on either of the two smaller sides.

Hook was behind the door of the left entrance, looking through a gap in the door, waiting for the commentator to announce his entrance.

"Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen!" Boomed Captain Phoebus from his booth. "I would like to welcome you all to the Tournament of Swords!"

The crowd roared with deafening cheers before he continued. "I am Captain Phoebus of the Paris guard and the host for today's competition. We'll go over the rules in just a moment, but first, let us meet our combatants!" The crowd screamed with excitement.

"Our first contestant is a visiting prince who has slayed many beasts with his sword. Including a deadly sorceress-turned-dragon! Please give it up for Prince Phillip!"

The loud sound of trumpets played as the crowd went wild. From what Hook could see through the door, Phillip rode into the stadium on his horse before dismounting, and then proceeded to bow and wave to the audience.

"Now, our next fighter is a fellow Captain, of a very different ilk mind you, who is known around the world for his duelist skills with a rapier, as well as a terrible temper. Welcome, Captain James Hook!"

With the announcement of his name, Hook swung open the gate to the arena and walked forward into a sea of loud booing and hissing. Hook elected to tune out all of the noise to instead examine his opponent.

He was about as tall as Hook, maybe a bit shorter. He had light brown hair and a large smile. He wore a large red cape, but besides that pretty simple looking clothes. When he and Hook's eyes met, he gave a cocky grin. Bullseye, Hook thought.

Hook and the prince were made to stand ten feet from the middle on both sides while Phoebus explained the rules. "The rules are simple. Our two combatants will duel each other one-on-one. They aren't allowed to use any magic or technology, however they are allowed to throw punches and kicks as long as it's above the belt. Failing to follow any of these rules will result in immediate disqualification from the competition. Besides that, try to be good sports. Got it?"

"Got it." The two men said in unison.

"Good. Then let the duel commence!" Phoebus shouted before sitting down.

Prince Phillip and Captain Hook started circling each other.

"Truth to tell, I'm surprised to see a man like you here, Hook." Phillip said. "Shouldn't you be fleeing crocodiles right now?"

"Don't you have sleeping women to kiss?" Hook retorted.

"Oof. That's a bit below the belt. Should I have you disqualified now or do I have to wait a couple more seconds?"

"Oh, I intend to fight like a gentleman, sir. Watch closely, you may learn a couple things."

"A pirate like you? I can't imagine you having anything beyond the most basic and barbaric of tactics."

"What you couldn't imagine would astound even the most simple minded fool. That is why you needed fairies to do your thinking for you."

With that last comment, Prince Phillip narrowed his eyes. "We'll see about that."

The two stopped circling and stood for a moment before they both charged each other and clashed steel.

Hook threw Phillip back a bit but the prince regained his footing quickly before blocking Hook's follow-up left swing.

Phillip then tried slashing at Hook, but the pirate weaved out of the way and countered with an upward slice, cutting Phillip's right cheek.

Phillip, in response, swung at the Captain's head, which Hook ducked under, but unfortunately his hat was sliced to ribbons.

Discarding the hat, Hook tried swiping at Phillip quickly, but the prince caught it and knocked the pirate back.

He then approached slowly, sword pointed at Hook. Hook tried batting it away but Phillip held firm. They slowly crept towards the edge of the arena.

Hook felt his back hit a wall as the crowd yelled Phillip's name. "Seems you've lost." Phillip said. He then lifted his sword above his head with a cocky smile.

Hook smirked before saying. "Not quite yet."

He then jumped behind Phillip and threw Phillip's cape over his face. Disoriented, he tried to turn but was simultaneously kicked in the chest and had the sword yanked from his hand, causing him to tumble forward into the wall, landing against it with Hook's rapier pointed at his throat.

The whole arena was quiet. Everyone was baffled by what just happened, except Captain Hook. He stood over Prince Phillip with a pleased smile across his face. Phillip stared angrily for a moment, before bowing his head.

As soon as he did, a bell rang in the distance and Phoebus called the match. "Captain James Hook is the winner!"

Captain Hook stood for a moment longer, then he sheathed his sword, and offered his hand to Phillip.

The prince refused his hand and slowly stood. He then shuffled over and picked up his sword from the dirt.

"That was an excellent match, your majesty." Hook said with a coy smile. "You had excellent form."

Phillip scoffed. "I don't need to be coddled, pirate."

"Mmm." Hook hummed before saying. "A tip for the future, try not to get overly confident with your swings. You haven't won until your enemy is on the ground."

Phillip eyed him for a moment, then nodded in recognition. Hook then bowed to him and left the arena to a chorus of hisses and boos.

~~~

"Now that was dynamite, Hooky, a real five star show. Shame about the hat though." Hades praised as Hook re-entered the preparation area.

"Thank you. How were you watching me by the way? I don't believe I saw you in the stands." Hook said.

"Oh, y'know, I got ways." Hades smiled.

"Mhm." Hook sat down on a bench. "You were on the tarp above the stands, weren't you?"

Hades gasped dramatically. "What? I would never do something like that! No no no, I was on top of a building next to the arena."

Hook chuckled before the two men heard someone loudly clear their throat. They turned to see who it was and Low and behold, it was Prince Phillip and his wife Aurora.

Hook stood. "What an unexpected surprise. Pleasure to see you again Prince, I see you've brought your wife. I suppose it makes sense. After so thoroughly thrashing you, I get why you might want some help to stand up to me."

Aurora glared at Hook. "We don't know what you two are up to, but as soon as we do, I'll make sure you're both arrested for it."

"Hey now lady, we haven't done anything wrong here. We're just enjoying the day, same as you and red-cape over there." Hades said.

Aurora huffed before turning and leaving with Phillip in tow. The two men watched them leave.

"You see what I meant by all eyes on us?" Hook said.

Hades nodded. "Sheesh, you weren't kidding. One slip up and we're heading straight to the clink."

Hook turned towards Hades. "It's not like a jail could contain either of us, but, still, it would be very irritating to deal with."

"Especially with the misses. She'd skin me and wear me like a lion's pelt."

"Anyway, I believe I still have a lot of time before my next match, so I'll be wandering the stalls. Care to join me?"

"Yeah, sorry but I got other stuff to do right now. Maybe later."

"Deals to check on?"

"Yup. See ya." Hades then disappeared in a puff of smoke, leaving Hook alone in the preparation area. Hook then gathered his things and walked out to wander the festival.

Chapter Text

Hook enjoyed browsing the stalls of the festival. He enjoyed the small confectionaries that the bakers and chefs made. He enjoyed the little baubles and oddities that the craftsmen and collectors sold. The only part he didn't enjoy were the street performers.

You'd think it would be the snide comments or insults from people passerby, but he'd long gotten used to that. Street performers on the other hand, they were truly irritating.

He could sometimes appreciate the showmanship or skill required of magicians, sword-swallowers or jugglers. But by and large street performers were just those who weren't good enough for anything else, or just extremely annoying.

This was what was running through Captain Hook's head while he leaned against a baker's booth and watched as a crowd of people (almost entirely men) surrounded a female dancer, completely mesmerized.

Hook groaned to himself, Pathetic, he thought, before he noticed a small child seemingly sneaking between the men. He observed for a moment before realizing the boy was a pickpocket. Most likely sent by the dancer to rob these men of what they wouldn't throw at her.

That made James grin, maybe he should give these street performers more credit. Then one of the men shouted "My wallet's gone!" and all Hell broke loose as the boy disappeared into thin air. Hook was trying to stifle a laugh when one of the men noticed him and stomped over.

"What's so funny, pirate?" The man shouted more than asked.

Hook was still failing to stop a chuckle, "Oh nothing, just enjoying the show."

"You bastard! Give me back my wallet!" The man screamed.

The laugh died at that point. "I don't have your wallet, you dult! And I do not appreciate the accusation!"

"You lying crook! I'll have you hanged for this!" At this point a good number of the crowd had joined the original man and were hurling their own insults before the baker had had enough and slammed down his baking tray.

"Now listen here!" He said, "This man here has been at my stall since you all started watching that lady dance. So unless you all lost your wallets before you started hucking cash at that dancer, he couldn't have done it. Could he?"

"Then who stole our money?" One man shouted.

"Well, Paris is the pickpocket capital of the world. Maybe one of them took it." The baker replied nonchalantly.

The mob grumbled at this before all plodding off to try and find their cash, but not before the original man said one last thing to Hook, "If I find out you had anything to do with this, I'll string you up myself."

Hook scoffed and turned away and the man left. Leaving Hook with the baker who'd just saved his skin.

"Thank you sir," Hook said, "without you I might have just been killed."

"Not a problem, I deal with mobs a lot. Names Lathyn by the way." The baker replied, putting his baking tray in the oven.

"Captain James Hook." Hook said, "How often is 'a lot' exactly?"

Lathyn smiled, "More than most. Living in a kingdom with such potent magic causes more witch hunts than one can count."

Hook idly thought of a group of villagers trying to hunt Maleficent before being disintegrated. He smirked.

"That being said," Lathyn continued, "can I get you anything? Or did you just want to keep leaning against my stall?"

"You're a snarky kid, aren't you?"

"Like I said, part of the territory."

"In that case, my good sir, I'll have a couple of your snickerdoodles."

~~~

Hook was minding his own business, browsing a small antique vendor, when he was suddenly knocked into a display stand by something flying into his back. When he recovered his senses, he realized a child was now sitting on his shoulder blades.

"Blasted brat, get off my back!" Hook shouted before the kid tumbled off. As he stood he realized it was the same kid who had robbed all those gawking men earlier. He quickly checked all his pockets to make sure nothing was stolen.

"I am so sorry sir!" He heard someone shout behind him. He turned around to see the dancer from earlier. So I was right, they were in cahoots!

The dancer approached fast, and just when Hook expected to be recognized and for her to recoil slightly, she instead pushed him out of the way and picked up the child. "What happened? Are you hurt?" She asked the kid.

The child shook his head before saying, "I was running over the tarps, like you taught me, but one of them had a hole and I fell through." The boy looked sad and about ready to cry.

"Hey, it's alright. No need for tears. You didn't do anything wrong." She comforted the boy.

Hook was a bit stunned. Most people, even if they didn't know who he was, recoiled slightly at his appearance. But this woman hadn't even flinched. She just barreled past him like he was a pile of empty bottles. James felt he should be offended by this, but he was more in awe of the seemingly tender motherly attitude from this criminal.

It was at this point that the shopkeep cleared his throat loudly and everyone snapped out of their private bubbles of thought.

"Right," the woman said, "Zephyr, why don't you apologize to these two men." She put down the boy and the boy approached the shopkeeper first.

"I'm sorry Mr. Shopkeep, I didn't mean to break your stuff." He said. Surprisingly, to Hook at least, the shopkeep merely smiled and said it was okay. The boy then turned to Hook, but hesitated. Hook sighed internally, Alright, here comes the crying.

The woman looked at Zephyr, "Aren't you going to apologize to him?" She asked in that motherly-stern tone.

"But… he's scary." The boy said quietly.

The woman looked briefly at Hook before looking back at Zephyr, "He's no more scary than Quasimodo, and you talk to him all the time."

Hook made a mental note to try and avoid this 'Quasimodo', if he's just as if not more scary than Hook himself. The boy and the Captain stood for a moment in silence.

"Imsorryforfallingonyouandhurtingyoupleasefirgivemeimsorrydontkillme!" The child quickly spat out before running behind his mother.

The woman sighed, "I'm sorry sir, he just gets nervous when talking to new people. It's nothing personal."

"I doubt that." Hook said, "But, since he apologized I…suppose all is forgiven. Just watch your step next time, boy. The next person you fall on might not be so kind."

Hook looked at Zephyr who nodded, and it was at that moment that Hook clocked realized that this boy looked quite familiar. His hair and skin were a shade or two darker and his eyes were bright green, but this boy looked almost exactly like Captain Phoebus.

Hook returned his gaze to the woman, "If you don't mind me asking, madam, what might your name be?"

The woman seemed to shift slightly, "Esmeralda, why?"

"Hmm… you wouldn't happen to know a Captain Phoebus, would you?" Hook asked.

Esmeralda shifted her weight to one foot and crossed her arms, "I do, in fact. He's my husband."

"Just as I thought." Hook said. Thought a bit before he realized that this didn't matter at the moment, "No need to worry, I won't tell him about this or you robbing those men. Honor among thieves."

Esmeralda smirked, "Well, if that's so, then I guess I should give you back this." She unfolded her arms to reveal that she was holding the Captain's watch. Hook was surprised and about to start shouting before she tossed it back to him and caught it with his hook.

Another loud crash caught the group's attention, and they turned to see a small goat running between people with a whole line of sausages being chased by a very angry looking butcher wielding a large cleaver.

"I guess that's our cue to leave." Esmeralda said before picking up Zephyr and the goat and jumping from a cart to the top of the stands to a building and disappearing. Leaving behind a very befuddled pirate and a very angry butcher.

Chapter Text

When Hades returned to the locker room, he found Hook warming up with a practice dummy.

"How's it going Hooky?" Asked Hades.

"I'm fine, thank you." Hook replied, "Did you settle any more of your deals while you were away?"

"A few, yeah." Hades said, "Nothing too interesting though. Just a couple of guys who said they'd sell their souls for another drink or kiss with a pretty girl. Stuff like that."

"Poor sops. They never stood a chance." Hook said.

Suddenly an attendant entered the room. "Five minutes 'til you're up, Mr. Captain Hook, sir." the young man said in a shaky voice.

"I'll be ready, don't worry." Hook said dismissively.

He then sheathed his sword and walked over to a locker that held his coat and hat. He put on the coat, but not the hat. He considered it for a second, but shook his head and closed the locker.

"Woah, no hat this time? You doing alright?" Hades asked.

"The last fight made it quite obvious it wouldn't be of any use." Hook said, "Besides, I only have so many of them. I can't afford to waste them like that."

"Y'know that's a real shame. Seeing your hat get shredded was my favorite part." Hades grinned.

Hook made an annoyed face at Hades, but decided not to pursue and changed topics. "Is there anything you can tell me about this 'Adonis' I'm supposed to be fighting at some point?"

Hades shrugged, "Unfortunately, I've already told ya most of what I know. They're apparently great with a sword as well as clever and, as far as I can tell, pretty attractive."

"Great. I'll be on the lookout for any 'attractive' fighters. Exquisitely helpful." Hook rolled his eyes, "What about the person you made the bet with? What were they like?"

"Oi, that guy. Let me tell ya, he had an ego like Zeus." Hades said, "He wasn't evil or anything like that, but, well, he was just…so…conceited."

"I imagine you got along swimmingly then." Hook said.

"Oh yeah, it was great. We were like Cain and Abel, real brotherly love." Hades said sarcastically.

Hook chuckled, "What did he look like then?"

Hades groaned, "Oh, he was an eyesore. His armor was bright gold, and it kept reflecting right in my eye. And he had the worst excuse for a goatee I'd ever seen. There was barely any hair on his chin and zip on the rest of his face, and-"

"Mr. Captain Hook sir, the match is starting soon, please come to the door." The suddenly reappearing attendant said.

Hook stared daggers at him. The man stood there for a moment before slinking away in fear. Hook then turned back to Hades. "It seems I must go now. Will you be in the stands this round? Or will you be watching from a distance like a gargoyle?" He said.

"Eh, I don't know, depends on if the other gargoyles let me get a good seat." Hades replied, "Ciao babe." He then disappeared in a puff of black smoke, leaving James to walk to the arena to face his next opponent.

Hook walked over to a mirror, straightened his jabot and dusted his coat. He then admired himself, striking a pose.

When Hook reached his entrance, he noticed two things. The first was that the attendant from earlier was standing off to the side. The second was that he was holding a trumpet.

Hook, confused, asked, "Why are you here? And why do you have that instrument?"

"The, um, Captain asked that I play you in, sir." The attendant said.

How lovely of him, Hook thought sarcastically. He then took a look out into the arena itself.

The arena had been set up in a way that mirrored the roofs of a town, with ropes and planks bridging the gaps of the slightly raised faux roofs. There was a large tower in the middle, with a few pulleys and a ladder to access the roof. From what Hook could tell, it was pretty sturdy.

Hook asked the attendant without turning, "Is this some sort of gimmick match?"

The attendant stuttered out, "No- well, sort of, all the rules still apply but the Captain thought things could be more interesting this round, sir."

Hook hummed. Not like it will make a difference, he thought. The attendant then tapped him on the shoulder. Hook quickly turned and pulled the man by the collar so their eyes were level. He whispered three words.

"Don't. Touch. Me."

The attendant shook, "I-I'm sorry sir, I d-didn't mean to-"

"Save your blubbering, lad. You do that again and I'll cut your hand off. Understand?" Hook said slowly.

"Y-y-yes, sir. Sorry, sir."

"Good." Hook let go of the attendant, who stumbled onto the ground, and then asked, "What were you going to ask, lad?"

The attendant layed on the ground for a little, breathing heavily, before picking himself up and dusting himself off and regaining a semblance of composure, "I-i was just wondering, sir, what you'd like me to play when you walk out, sir."

Hook thought about it for a moment. What tune would best fit his triumphant and grand entrance? He had one idea but it would’ve been better if a full band could play it, but he supposed he could make due with this. “Here, lad, let me show you what to play.”

Outside, the stands rumbled with noise. Captain Phoebus sat in his booth with his family. He shouted to the crowd, trying to excite them for the next round, "Our combatants will face each other in this specially made arena, built by my soldiers under the direction of my lovely wife here." Phoebus smiled at Esmeralda, "It will allow more vertical movement during the fight, hopefully giving us a more exciting show. Are you ready?" The crowd roared with anticipation and the band started blaring. Phoebus shouted as loud as he could, "Bring in the contestants!"

Hook had just finished teaching the attendant the song when suddenly the gate opened and Hook and the attendant were pushed out. Around them was a sea of faces, all booing, hissing and swearing at Hook. Hook took this in stride however and simply smiled and waved at the crowd. He scanned the crowd for Hades, but didn't see him. His attendant followed close behind, looking sheepish and trying his best to play the tune Hook had just given him.

He heard Phoebus's voice cut through the noise of the arena effortlessly, like ripping a dagger through a sail, "Our first contestant, Captain James Hook, is an experienced pirate and leader, but will his skills be good enough to defeat his next opponent? We will see."

Hook made eye contact with Phoebus and they nodded at each other. Hook felt a strange respect towards the man that he couldn’t quite place. He couldn't dwell on it however, as Phoebus announced his opponent's entrance.

"Captain Hook’s opponent is also an experienced leader. She served in the military, acting as a commander for more than 5 years. She defeated the invading Hun army with just a firework and fought the fearsome Shan Yu single-handedly! Please welcome the legendary Fa Mulan!" The audience cheered and the band played a loud, but very catchy tune as Mulan marched toward the center of the arena, where Hook was standing. She seemed to examine Hook. He returned the favor

She was wearing full Chinese military armor. Her hair was tied in a bun and she was holding a helmet at her side. Her sword was hanging by her side. Her face was unreadable and menacing. Hook could tell this was going to be a tough fight.

Phoebus shouted once more, "Due to the unique arena, I have decided to instate a new rule for this match. If either contestant hits the ground during the match, they automatically lose. I assume you two have no complaints?"

The two in question were silent. Phoebus asked if they were ready. Mulan put on her helmet. Hook tightened his hook. They both drew their swords. Hook had his rapier and Mulan had a jian. Phoebus took this as a yes and called for the match to begin. They stood, unmoving.

"I trust that you will fight honestly, Mr. Hook?" Mulan asked.

"Captain Hook, madam." Hook corrected.

Mulan smirked, "Really? Because I heard you didn't have a ship anymore. If that's the case, you aren't really a Captain anymore. Are you, Mister Hook?"

Hook knew she was trying to annoy him, make him strike first. So instead he sneered at her, "You're going to have to try harder than that to trick me, madam."

"Not too much harder, I believe." Mulan entered into a fighting stance and they began to clash.

Hook quickly jabbed at a gap between the arm plates of Mulan's armor. She parried the blow and swung in turn, grazing his coat. Hook bent out of the way and tried for a jab again, this time between the ribs. They traded parries and swings in rhythm, but Hook was being pushed back slowly towards the edge.

Hook noticed this and quickly changed course towards one of the nearby boards. He slowly inched backwards across the small plank, with Mulan pushing him every step, and when she was in the middle, he jumped onto the roof behind him and struck the board, hoping to knock her off balance.

Instead however, she used the bending board to trampoline herself over and behind Hook. She almost managed to strike him but Hook twisted around just in time to block it. They promptly started trading blows again, with Hook being pushed back again.

"Have a fairy in your back pocket?" Hook jeered as they shuffled across the plank, "I believe that's a violation of the rules." Hook blocked a side swipe, a loud clang wrung from the swords.

"No. Unlike you," Mulan said, "I do not need underhanded means to win fights." She struck at his chest, but he turned in time to avoid it and quickly sliced at her leg, succeeding. Mulan hissed and threw a punch, hitting Hook square in the jaw.

Hook spun and crashed into the ground, his sword clattered out of his hands and across the roof. “Now who’s underhanded.” Hook muttered as he spat out blood. Mulan leveled her sword at him. She had a look in her eyes, one almost identical to the look Phillip had in his eyes when he had Hook down. A look that said with all the confidence in the world, I win. But just like Phillip, Mulan was in for a rude awakening.

He looked around quickly, searching for a plan. Then he noticed two things. The very tall tower in the middle of the arena, and the tiles beneath him which had loosened when he fell. Hook thought for a second, and then a rotten, toothy grin crossed his face. He had a plan.

He wrapped his hook around Mulan's sword and yanked it to the side and, while she was unbalanced, picked up a loose roof tile from below him and chucked at her face. She easily dodged it but it was enough of a distraction for the Captain to slip out from under her and begin sprinting for his rapier.

Mulan recovered and ran after, quickly gaining on Hook. She went for a side swing but Hook went into a slide right as it would've connected and that carried him the rest of the way to his rapier. He clambered to his feet and they entered a stand off.

The crowd was shouting and screaming, booing at Hook, saying it was a cheap shot and how he should be disqualified. The Captain paid no attention, he was too focused. He looked at Mulan and then the tower, which was now behind her. This is going to be close, he thought.

Hook began to move to the side. Mulan did as well and they both began circling each other. Unlike the start of the match, there was no banter or quips. Just silence. A silence that now permeated the arena, having every onlooker waiting in tense anticipation for something to happen.

Then, Hook stopped, and once again cracked that evil smile. He stood for a moment longer, before turning on his heel and making a dash for the tower. Mulan paused, surprised, but she regained her sense and chased after.

Unfortunately for her, the wound on her was starting to ache and she was slowing down. She kept pace with Hook, but wasn't able to gain on him as he jumped from roof to roof and board to board.

Very quickly, Hook reached the base of the tower. He rushed over to one of the pulleys and sliced the rope, shooting him upwards. He landed semi-gracefully on the roof and quickly cut the rest of the pulley ropes before Mulan could use them. He looked down to see her rapidly climbing the ladder.

Hook smiled once again, "Sorry my dear," he shouted, "but I'm afraid this tower is for winners only." He placed his foot on the ladder, "You'll have to find a losers tower somewhere else." Hook kicked the ladder, and it started falling backwards. Hook turned around and put a hand to his ear, waiting for the sound of Mulan crashing into the ground.

However, all he heard was the ladder clatter against the roof. Confused, he looked over the edge to see her still climbing up the side of the tower. For a brief moment, although he'd never admit it, James panicked.

He had cut the two pulleys and had just knocked the only ladder down. The tower's roof was small and would force a one on one fight, which he wouldn’t win. The shingles were tightly fastened and he had nothing else at his disposal to throw. He could throw his sword, but if he missed he wouldn’t have a sword. The only way he was getting out of this was either a quick, painful duel or an even quicker, even more painful fall.

Even more painful fall… wait a minute!

He looked down the side again. Mulan was almost to the top. He looked at the other end of the roof. There wasn't much distance between the sides, but maybe if he was fast enough it would work. He dashed over to the side opposite of where Mulan was climbing.

He stood, steeling his nerves, waiting for her. Seconds felt like eternities. He tried to calm himself, think happy thoughts. He thought of his time as Blackbeard's cabin boy and the first man he shot. He thought of his mother and the spankings she gave him. He thought of Peter Pan, bloody and broken at the end of his hook. He thought of blood and bullets and gunpowder and treasure and Smee-

Smee.

Loyal Mr. Smee.

Hook nearly shed a tear.

James could hear what he would say, if he were here. "You got this capin! No one can beat Captain Hook!"

James smiled. Not an ugly evil sneer, or a smug grin, or even a pompous leer. Just a warm, happy smile.

Hook was broken from this state as he saw the hands of his opponent grab the edge of the roof. He breathed deep, and regained his composure, but the smile didn't leave his face.

Mulan pulled herself onto the roof and got to her feet up, but before she could even focus, Hook charged at her with all his force shoulder first. Mulan tried to move her blade into his path, but she wasn't quick enough and he slammed into the flat side of her sword and then her chest. She flew backwards, off the side, past the roof, down the side of the tower, then crashed into a lower roof with a massive boom of cracking wood and shattering ceramic that shook the arena.

The arena was silent, atmosphere thick. Everyone stared quietly at Mulan who lay unmoving in a self-made crater. Dust clouds floated around her body and blood could be seen flowing from her head and leg. Hook peered from over the side, waiting with bated breath. It was like time had frozen. No one dared to move or make noise. For another brief moment, but for a completely different reason, James panicked.

A loud groan broke this tense silence as Mulan awoke and slowly sat up. She seemed dazed for a moment, before regaining her senses and looking around. She looked at the crater she was in, the arena and crowds, up the tower, and right at Hook.

They stared at each other, expressions unreadable

Suddenly, Mulan seemed to see something, as surprise covered her face. She then broke away to look herself over. Her body ached and she was covered with wood dust. She put her hand to her forehead, then pulled it away. It was covered with blood. The wound on her leg burned heavily from the shards of wood and ceramic now lodged inside. She attempted to stand, grunting heavily as she climbed to her feet. One thing was clear, she was in no condition to continue. She looked back at the Captain. He was still staring at her. She was considering something. Then, she did something wholly unexpected. She bowed to him.

Hook was taken aback, and so was the crowd, as a shocked gasp escaped almost everyone’s lips. The Captain froze for a second, but something inside him motivated him to return the gesture. Something he wasn’t particularly familiar with, but nonetheless he listened to it and semi-jerkily bowed.

Satisfied, Mulan picked up her sword and silently and pain-stackingly descended the roof arena. She limped over to the side of the roof and was helped down by a few guards. She drug herself to her gate, but before leaving took one last look at Hook. It looked like she wanted to say something, but decided against it and silently exited from view.

Captain Phoebus, whose mouth was agape, cleared his throat and announced, "Uh…ladies and gentleman, it seems that after that intense and, um, bloody battle, we have a winner. Captain James Hook." Beside the knight-captain, a small boy's green eyes shone with wonder and amazement.

The crowd was silent for a second before a cavalcade of boos and hisses filled the arena. They hurled insults like "rigged" and "cheater" and much less savory things at Hook, but he paid them no mind.

He felt… strange.

He was satisfied with the fight, but it didn’t feel like a victory. He found he had immense respect for this woman who nearly bested him. He didn’t usually feel this way towards his enemies, or really anyone for that matter, but something about this Mulan seemed to earn his respect and… was this admiration? That couldn’t be right. And what was this other feeling he had for her? It was like a mix of fear and sadness. Why was that there?

Hook pondered this as he slowly climbed down the tower. He pondered as the crowd's boos intensified. He pondered as he left the arena and sat in his prep room. He pondered and pondered, until he stopped. He decided to stop thinking about it, nothing could really be gained from asking questions you don’t really understand. He decided to get some fresh air to clear his thoughts.

He opened his locker and put on his hat. He walked past the mirror, but when he looked at himself, he didn’t feel like posing pompously. This further rattled him.

“Blast it, what is wrong with me?” Hook said to no one in particular.

He quietly exited the room and began wandering the streets of Paris, the noises of people talking and arguing eventually drowning out any of the strange thoughts he was having.

Chapter Text

It had reached the afternoon, and Hook took notice of an uptick in activity. Several smaller scale contests and tournaments were being held all over. Competitive eating, a costume contest, wrestling and jousting matches and the competition Hook was currently watching, archery. The contest was being held on a small patch of green in fron of the great Notre Dame, with a few targets on one side and the three remaining contestants on the other side. The judges' table was nearer the contestants with three guards officiating.

From Hook's vantage point amidst the crowd he could make out fairly clearly the contestants and their skills. A woman with fiery red hair was clearly the most technically impressive, making clean, difficult shots, while a fox with a hat and shirt was better at pulling off charming tricks and stunts. He also pulled a few tricks on the others. Hook liked him the most. The third archer was non other than Gaston, a man Hook would hesitate calling a friend, more a begrudgingly tolerated associate. He wasn't all that skilled in archery, but the judges seemed to fear or lust for him enough to keep him in the running.

The group were all tied, and while the contestants argued and the judges tried to figure out a tie breaker, Hook felt a hand slide across his shoulders and he turned to see the smug visage of the lord of the Underworld.

"Hooky! I've been looking for you! Why'd you disappear like that?" Hades asked.

"I wished to get some fresh air, away from the crowds." Hook said.

"So you came to stand in a crowd and watch… this?" Hades asked.

"Archery." Hook stated simply.

"No, really? Hadn't noticed." Hades rolled his eyes, "You're a great guy to talk to, you know that? Oi…"

"If I had wanted to be mocked I would've stayed in Neverland." Hook crossed his arms.

"Okay, okay, easy does it babe. Why don't you tell me how the game is going? Will that make you feel better?" Hades asked.

Hook sighed. "The three contestants are tied and they're trying to decide a tie breaker. They've been talking for about ten minutes and have yet to come up with anything."

"Really? How hard could it be, just point something to shoot at and they shoot it." Hades said.

"I think they're probably just trying to find something that would be difficult enough to actually decide a winner." Hook said.

Hades was about to say a witty retort, when suddenly a loud noise of aggravation came from the ginger woman, "Can't you just decide already you bleeding sheep!" She shouted in a thick Scottish accent.

"Yes, we all have other things to do today so please hurry up." The fox in the hat said.

"Yeah! I may be great at standing around and looking beautiful, but I've got other things to win today. Hurry up!" Gaston shouted as he slammed the judges' table.

The judges panicked, "Well- why, um, don't you….um…" They frantically looked around.

One of the judges then locked eyes with Hook, and they recognized each other. It was the same guardsman who initially refused to let him enter the dueling tournament. A sneer crossed the guard's face.

The guard pointed at Hook, "Him! He can come up with the challenge!" He shouted.

All eyes turned to look at Hook, and a quiet fell upon the crowd. Hook looked at Hades who just shrugged.

"Me?" Hook asked.

"Him?" The constants asked.

"Him." The guard answered.

Hook paused, then smiled. He knew the guard was setting him up to fail, either by upsetting the crowd or archers, both ending in disaster, but Hook refused to back down from a challenge. He confidently strode to the field, the crowd parting for him as he walked. When he reached the judges' table, the three guards scurried off, leaving him the table.

Gaston seemed to take this development in stride, "Well, look who it is! Didn't expect to see you here of all places. No offense, but you seem kinda boring." He said, grinning widely.

Unlike Gaston, the fox and scottish woman seemed quite miffed, "Are you serious? This man couldn't be farther from unbiased." The woman shouted.

Hook tried being cordial, "Now settle down, my dear-"

"Do not call me that." The red-head said, "My name is Meredith, got it?"

"...Right." Hook said, "Well, Meredith, like I was about to say, I intend to be entirely fair and unbiased in my judging and challenge setting. I assure you."

Meredith scowled at the Captain. The Captain smiled back. "Fine," She said, "what's the challenge? And I warn you," she leaned in close, "if I smell anything fishy, I'll skewer you like the salty codfish you are-"

Hook lost his smile immediately and stood to meet her eyes, "Now listen here lady Meredith, if you wish to participate in this competition then you will treat me with the barest modicum of respect, or I will simply hand the trophy to that fox over there."

"You wouldn't dare." Meredith said.

"Yes I would." The two stood eyes locked for a few moments before Meredith relented, blowing hair out of her face.

Hook sat back down quietly, calming himself for a few moments before clearing his throat, "Your challenge," he announced, "will be simple. It will not be about fancy tricks or showmanship, but about raw, unfettered skill." Hook looked between the contestants, "You are tasked with shooting a… let's see…" Hook looked around for a moment.

"What a fantastic idea, shooting a something! How haven't we thought of that yet?" The fox asked sarcastically. It earned a small laugh from the crowd.

Hook grabbed something from the ground, "I wasn't done." He said, "The target is going to be up there." He pointed to the roof of the ancient Notre Dame. "And the target itself is this." Hook held an apple, "That won't be a challenge for you all, will it?"

"Of course not." Meredith said, "As long as you're honest about it."

"My dear lady Meredith," Hook said, "I am nothing if not honest. No trickery or foul play shall be done during this competition on my part, I assure you."

"It better not." Meredith said in a threatening tone.

"You have my word," Said Hook, holding his Hook to his heart and his hand in the air, "and a man is nothing without his word."

Meredith raised an eyebrow but said nothing else. Hook took this as acceptance, "Each of you please tie a colored ribbon to your arrows so that I may distinguish them. Now if you'll excuse me." Hook started towards the cathedral before turning and saying, "You may fire when I have fired my pistol." He then swung the door of Notre Dame open and shut it behind him.

As soon as Hook was away from sight, he started muttering to himself, "Codfish? How dare she… I am not a codfish, I am Captain James Hook!" The last part of his sentence echoed a bit. This made him take notice of the lack of people in the building. At least that makes sneaking onto the roof easier, Hook thought.

He started to look for stairs, but he kept getting distracted by the sheer beauty of the building. The large arches along the walls, the exquisitely detailed columns, the gorgeous stained glass windows, it was a marvel to behold. He also noticed many unattended golden candelabras. He considered maybe snatching one or two, but decided that they were too hard to hide and that they had more value if they were here, unstolen.

He eventually found the stairs up to the roof, but just as he was about to step foot on them, he heard a door nearby open and humming. Hook quickly moved away from the stairs and attempted to hide himself in a barely lit corner. Soon he spotted the person who had entered.

He was an older man, the bushy sideburns that framed his round and friendly face were gray and he was dressed in the clothes of a high ranked member of the church. He was slow, but he stepped with purpose, lighting candles that had gone out and quietly humming a hymn. If Hook had to guess, he was probably the man in charge of this place. The priestly fellow turned in Hook's direction and saw the Captain silently lurking in a shadowy corner.

Instead of what Hook expected, which was questions and shouting, the old priest smiled and said, "There's no need to hide in the shadows. You are more than welcome in this place." After a beat of silence, he continued, "Please, step into the light so I can see you clearly, child."

Hook was hesitant, but slowly crept out of the shadows and into the candle light, making sure to keep his hook firmly behind his back.

When the Captain had fully entered the light, the old man smiled, "Good. That wasn't so hard now was it?" That annoyed Hook a twinge, "Now, why don't you tell me who you are and why you have come to Notre Dame."

Hook thought for a moment, it had been a while since someone he met didn't know who he was. How did he want to present himself? He settled on, "Well, my name is James, and I came to… well I'm actually helping with an archery competition and was wondering if I could use your roof."

"Oh. I'm sorry sir but I'm afraid no one is allowed up there without permission." The old priest said.

"Well, can I have your permission to go up there then?" James asked.

"I'm sorry but I don't have the authority to do that." The priest said.

"Well who has the authority?" Asked Hook.

The old priest sighed, "Listen, sir. You are free to walk around the cathedral, but under no circumstances can I give you-" Suddenly, the sound of a tiny bell ringing echoed from the top of the cathedral and the priest stopped talking. He then quickly said, "Excuse me for a moment sir." And shuffled up the stairs to the roof.

Hook was befuddled by that sudden interruption. Obviously whoever was ringing the bell was important, but why would they be on the roof? Did they live up there? Is that why the old priest didn't want him going up there? Hook decided that once the priest came back he would ask him and then demand to speak with the person on the roof. Maybe then he could finally get this archery competition over with and get back to enjoying his afternoon.

Hook paced for a few minutes before he heard someone descending the stairs. He turned towards them, hand and hook clasped behind his back, and tried his best to not look angry.

"I have good news sir," said the priest as he rounded the corner, "You have been allowed on the roof."

Hook smiled, but before he could say anything the priest continued, "However, you will have to obey some rules." Hook's mood immediately dampened but he remained quiet, "You are not allowed to touch anything, look around, or investigate any noises you hear. You will go straight to your desired roof and then you will leave with no divergences or exceptions. Do you understand?"

Hook's smile became more and more strained as he heard more and more rules listed, but he managed to keep it together, "Of course, sir. I will follow each rule to the letter."

The priest seemed hesitant, but he moved out of the way and back towards the candelabras, leaving Hook to climb the stairs.

As Hook ascended the steps, he thought about the rules he had been given. He understood the no touching or exploring, he wouldn't want someone doing that to his cathedral, but specifically mentioning not investigating any noises he heard seemed strange. Was the tower prone to making strange noises? Or was it an effort to protect the bells? Who would want to steal a giant bell? Even if the thing was covered in jewels and finery it would be exceedingly hard to carry anywhere. But that was besides the point.

Hook reached the top to find a large open area which appeared to be someone's living space. There was furniture, a nice bed, some children's books, and a large table with what appeared to be a model of the square below. It was decorated to look exactly like the archery tournament, with figures for Gaston, Merida, and that fox. They weren't painted like some of the other models and there were wood shavings around, so Hook surmised whoever was up here had just made them. And that meant they were probably still here.

It was at this point Hook started to remember vague stories told to him the few brief times he had been spoken to by the ever reprehensible Judge Claude Frollo. He remembered hearing of a monster that lived in the bell towers of Notre Dame. The monster had turned the city against Frollo, and worse, towards the "gypsy scum". Frollo had shouted about how in a valiant attempt to stop the monster and his gypsy accomplice, the gypsy had used some sort of magic to enchant the gargoyle he was standing on, making him fall into the fiery pit below. Then, a name came to him, not spoken by Frollo but by the mother thief, the gypsy, he had met just that morning. Quasimodo.

Hook felt eyes watching him, and he quickly turned around, but no one was there. Sensing he should hurry up and get out of there, Hook quickly navigated to the roof overlooking the competition. He could see that in his absence the three contestants had started arguing amongst themselves. As he slowly inched along the outer walls onto the side of the roof, he started to hear a few things.

"...no good, untrustworthy piece of human garbage!" He heard Merida say, "I can't believe he just left!"

"Calm down, you're being hysterical." Gaston said in a condescending tone, "The Captain is by no means a good man, but he is a man of his word. He'll show up soon I'm certain."

Hook was surprised. Not only had Gaston said something bearing a modicum of intelligence, he said something approaching a compliment. Hook thought the man was incapable of praising anyone aside from himself.

Hook crawled to the top of the roof carefully. When he made it he breathed a sigh of relief and then placed the apple on the trim of the roof. It was at this moment Hook realized that no one had seen him and that everyone was focusing on the argument between Merida and Gaston. Hook got a bit annoyed at this. He had climbed all the way up here and no one was even paying attention? How rude. He screamed as loud as he could while flailing like a chicken. He waved his hat in big wide sweeps and started throwing small rocks at the people below.

Eventually, the fox fellow noticed him causing a fuss and alerted the other contestants. Hook couldn't see their expressions but he could bet Merida was annoyed and Gaston had that smug grin on his face. Both expressions Hook disliked. Hat still in hook, Hook pulled out his pistol and aimed it toward the sky. He then waited a few moments, partially because he was letting the contestants fully prepare and partially to add a little tension and suspense. He then fired his pistol. Less than a second later, he heard the arrows whistle.

The arrow with a red band, the one probably belonging to Gaston, came first. It completely missed, instead firing past the roof and over onto an awning on Notre Dame. The second arrow, tied with a ribbon covered in foxes, the fox-man's, made a significantly better effort. It nearly hit the apple but fell a few feet short and lodged itself into the stone face of the cathedral. Impressive to be sure, but not impressive enough. Third came an arrow tied with blue and brown ribbon, Merida's, and it hit the apple square in the middle. The apple flew backwards and ended up hitting Hook in the chest. Luckily, the arrow didn't pierce him and he caught it in his hat.

Hook slid his gun into his coat and approached the edge. He took the apple from his hat and threw it as hard as he could. It landed a few feet from the contestants feet, and Hook shouted "Merida wins!" At the top of his lungs.

The crowd cheered. Merida seemed surprised, probably still thinking he would rig the game, but still started celebrating and showboating. Particularly to Gaston who seemed to be fuming with rage. He was probably about to do something stupid, when something suddenly happened. Right at that moment Hook took a step back right onto a loose shingle. It flew out from under him and he fell backwards and started rolling down the roof. His shouting drew the attention of the crowd, who all turned to see him tumbling towards the edge of the roof rapidly.

He reached the edge and almost started falling, but he managed to hook into it at the last second. He hung loose, his hook the only thing keeping him up. He looked to the hard ground below. He suddenly understood the terror Frollo must have felt when he was put into this position. He tried to grasp on to the edge with his good hand but he couldn't get a solid hold, the trim proving to be more slippery than the ones used in the tournament. The wind whistled around him.

Then, his hook started to slip, and Captain Hook felt fear.

He felt as though looking down was like looking into the gaping jaws of a crocodile, and he could almost hear that impish boy laughing at his expense. The ground seemed to be only getting further away as he got closer. Time seemingly slowed as Hook's mind was firing at a lightning pace, trying to think of any way he could get himself to safety. The crowd watched below, silent and tense. Hook thought maybe he could try swinging towards a wall or landing in a tree, but the walls were too far and there were no trees to fall into. Perhaps a bird could break his fall? Or maybe he could ask a gargoyle to help? Hook, desperately grasping at straws as every moment he moved towards eternity. He didn't want to die like this. He didn't want to be remembered like this! There was no escape and no one to help and Hook was alone.

Alone.

Suddenly his mind slowed and he reflected. He wondered if this was the fate he deserved, to plunge to the hard ground below in front of a crowd of people who hated him. No one here cared for him. Even his "friends" were merely people he tolerated to not feel so alone. But he was. He was entirely alone. No one would mourn him, no one cared about him. He would be remembered as the man who spent almost his entire life fighting a young boy and being humiliated every time. This was his fate. The one he deserved. The sad, meaningless end to mean old Captain Hook. As his hook finally let go, he felt weightless, and, for a brief moment, totally at peace.

This feeling was broken a split second later as a giant hand gripped his arm and heaved on to the roof. Hook, disoriented, flew and landed on the roof with a large thud. He could barely understand what was happening, completely overwhelmed. The last feeling he remembered before passing out was someone's strong arms picking him up and carrying him somewhere else.