i don’t think the pen is “alive” … Cruella is twisting truths to manipulate Henry’s naiveté. As we’ve seen in Pan’s shop EF objects go to the shop after they’re finished their use or are broken. The quill was was imbued with magic – the magic of the author. But when Henry breaks it – he’s accepting the role of author but rejecting unchecked power. The apprentice acknowledges that H has accepted the true meaning. Hence Henry took in all the magic at that moment – he no longer need the crutch (i.e. quill) – none of the other authors truly comprehended the role. I think in the end, Henry will see the light through the “smoke & gin” (LOL) and really become the author – just like Emma finally embraced the true meaning of being the savior