A/n: It all makes sense, actually. Though Mattel hasn't really addressed the issue, we can infer that's what happened based off the Snow White and the Seven Dwarves tale. But I don't know. Maybe it's just another one of those loopholes. I find that Ever After High is full of them. For an example, if Holly's supposed to be the next Rapunzel, weren't her parents supposed to hand her over to the witch? Shouldn't Holly have grown up imprisoned in a tower instead of in a loving family in a loving kingdom? How did that work?


When Duchess made it to the castleteria for breakfast, she was pleased to see Apple White sitting at a table in the corner. Her usual groupies were nowhere to be seen, the only student sitting with Apple was a raspberry-haired girl Duchess had never seen before. Served her right. The "perfect princess" didn't deserve to be treated so highly anymore and everyone else apparently thought so too because they didn't give Apple a second glance.

"How the mighty have fallen," smirked Duchess as the lunch ladies dolloped some runny, gooey porridge onto her breakfast tray. "Look at her over there. How pathetic." When her time came, it wouldn't be hard at all for Duchess to steal her thunder. Or what she had left of it. After the castleteria lady dropped an icky sausage onto her plate, Duchess took her breakfast and scanned the castleteria for a certain Prince Charming. Now that she had Apple's story, she wanted to get further acquainted with Daring for their new happily ever after together.

The swan princess snorted when she saw Lizzie sitting down beside Apple. Honestly, that madwoman had no taste. But what would Duchess expect from someone who tried slicing thin air with a dull butter knife? Now, where was that Daring?

A loud, hearty laugh caught Duchess's attention. Ah. There he is, thought Duchess when her eyes landed on the blond Prince Charming, who was walking away from the soda fountain and towards the tables.

Duchess found herself getting nervous when he walked straight past the usual table he sat at with the other jocks and hotties of the school. That was so unlike him. He was nearly always with the other popular guys. Where else would he…?

Oh.

Duchess hissed as she watched Daring sit beside Lizzie at Apple's and the unknown girl's table. Of course. Grumbling to herself, the swan princess slowly made her way over to their table. She so did not want to share the same space with Apple, but she did want to get close to Daring. Maybe she'd flirt with him to make White jealous. Yeah. That would be her punishment for always attracting Duchess's Prince Charming.

And to make things worse, just as Duchess was nearing Apple's table, Raven, Briar, and Cerise were also proceeding over to the "perfect princess". "Ugh. Briar," Duchess hostilely growled her greeting as she slid onto the bench next to Daring.

"Duchess," Briar aggressively returned the greeting as she and her two friends sat across from Duchess, Apple, Lizzie, and Daring beside the mysterious raspberry-haired girl.

"I sense conflict," smirked the mysterious girl, looking delighted by the tense atmosphere.

"That's one way of putting it," grumbled Briar, pressing her lips together as she poked at her bulging sausage on her blue breakfast tray.

"Everyone, this is the new girl," spoke up Apple, gesturing to the raspberry-haired girl, "Mira. Mira Shards. Mira, this is Briar, Daring, Raven, Cerise, Lizzie, and Duchess."

"What's down?" asked Mira confidently. Apple facepalmed and Duchess rolled her eyes. This new girl was obviously some social outcast or something. And now that Duchess thought about it, she kinda looked like Raven. Since the two were sitting side by side, they were nearly identical. Everyone echoed their greetings.

"So, Mira. Where are you from?" asked Briar thoughtfully, eyeing Lizzie as she sliced up the butter with her pocket knife. "And how do you and Apple know each other?"

"Neighbors," blurted Apple at the same time Mira was saying, "Camp."

"We went to neighboring camps," explained Mira, "and I'm from…the city."

Duchess rolled her eyes. Who cared about that kind of stuff? "What's your story?" asked Duchess, addressing the more important question. If this girl was from the city, then her story was probably irrelevant, close to unheard of.

Apple looked a little panicked, probably because she knew Duchess was only asking to make her feel inferior since she was no storyless. "I'm destined to be a magical baker who enchants the hearts and minds of her fellow villagers with her pastries," replied Mira boredly, "honestly, that's kind of lame so I'm not sticking with it."

Raven nodded understandingly. "So you're a Rebel."

"Something like that," shrugged Mira, "I hate cooking, but I love magic and spells. And I totally don't mind using enchantments. I just hate baking."

Duchess rolled her eyes again. There was definitely a villain vibe to this girl, but that didn't bother Duchess. After all, with everyone abandoning their stories left and right, committed villains were in short supply at Ever After High. And who knew? Since Raven obviously wasn't interested in her role as Evil Queen, maybe this Mira would like to take up on that offer and poison Duchess with the apple of death.

"And you said your name was Raven? As in Raven Queen?" squealed Mira excitedly, "oh my godmother, you're the daughter of the Evil Queen, the coolest villain ever after! She's like…my idol! You're so lucky to be her daughter!"

Duchess rolled her eyes again. Again, this girl had no taste whatsoever. If she had sense, Mira would be enthusing over Duchess instead of Raven and her equally rebellious mother.

Raven shrugged like it was no big deal. "Not really," she yawned, daring to try a little of her gooey porridge. "Being the daughter of the most evil queen in history is not all it's cracked up to be. Trust me."

Mira didn't look convinced. "But you must be so privileged," she insisted, "you get to boss everyone around and hold upmost authority, people everywhere probably fear you, you get to cast super strong spells and-"

"Mira," chuckled Raven, holding up a hand to indicate silence. "You got it all wrong. I'm not like my mother. I don't poison people for the hex of it or sabotage other people's accomplishments. And people don't fear me. Anymore, that is."

"Oh, Raven," laughed Apple nervously, looking somewhat uncomfortable. "You're so silly." Duchess smirked. The princess was probably disappointed that Raven was no longer her storybook rival. Now that Duchess was going to be the next Snow White, Raven was her new archenemy. Everyone knew the Evil Queen and Snow White's rivalry was legendary back when they attended Ever After High. And regardless of what Raven did or said, she and Duchess's conflict would be just as epic. All the swan princess needed was the Storybook of Legends and-

"So, if you don't mind, do you think you could give me a tour around school after class?" Mira asked her new idol hopefully, "this place is so big and I don't really know my way around yet."

Raven smiled. "Sure thing. I don't have anything else to do, so I'd be my pleasure."

Mira immediately looked apologetic. "I'm sorry. That was kind of selfish of me to just ask like that. As the Evil Queen's daughter, you must have a lot of responsibilities; Villain Club, Advanced Magicology thronework, your daily sabotage expeditions-"

Although Mira couldn't get over the daughter-of-the-Evil-Queen thing, Raven looked very patient. "I'm not into that kind of stuff, unlike my mom. And I don't get pleasure from being wicked. I like using my magic for good."

A look of disappointment spread across Mira's face, but she instantly reverted back to her enthusiast expression. "You must be a wickedly awesome spell caster," she assumed, "do you think I could study Magicology with you sometimes? I was homeschooled before and my mom's a baker, so she really didn't have any more spare time to give me demonstrations."

That's when Duchess stopped listening to Mira's and Raven's conversation. The new girl was obviously obsessed with the Evil Queen, and Duchess was gonna get a headache if she had to hear Mira sing Raven another praise. While the two look-alikes were conversing, Cerise, Apple, and Briar were engaged in a separate conversation, and Daring was admiring himself in the mirror. And Duchess honestly didn't blame him for being so in love with his appearance. How could anyone that handsome not be engrossed in his looks?

"Daring, did you put on a different kind of cologne this morning?" gushed Duchess, batting her eyelashes at him. "You smell more charming than usual."

Daring pried his eyes after from his reflection. "As a matter of fact, I did. Thank you for noticing." Duchess's heart skipped a beat at her crush acknowledging her. Sure, she'd only known Daring had put on different cologne because she'd watched his latest episode of his Mirrorcast Daring's Day, but that wasn't the point. The point was that Daring had spoken to her. And he smiled at her! This was Duchess's lucky day.

Mira sniffed the air. "Is that what that smell is? I wasn't sure if that was the sausage or the garbage."

Duchess's mouth dropped open at Mira's insult. Apple bit her lip nervously, Briar raised an eyebrow though she was smiling, Raven held back a giggle as her face twisted with laughter, Daring looked highly insulted, and Cerise just kept on munching on her sausage like nothing happened. "How dare you!" Duchess pounded the table with her first angrily. "Do you have any idea who you're talking to? Oh, wait. You probably don't since you're always enthusing over some dead lady who's been dead for nine years."

"Now, hold on, D," spoke up Raven, "there's no need to be-"

Mira knitted her eyebrows at Duchess. "Uh, who are you again? I forgot you were sitting there until now."

Duchess's nostrils flared as anger and embarrassment coursed through her body. "Why you little," she growled, "I'm Duchess Swan, daughter of Odette the Swan Queen!"

"The Swan Queen, the Swan Queen," Mira muttered to herself as if trying the words on for size. "Never heard of her. What story is she from?"

Her obliviousness made Duchess want to scream. Seriously, why did no one know her birth story? "Swan Lake," she managed to hiss, keeping her cool since Daring was watching her. "It's one of the most royal stories ever after."

Mira snapped her fingers. "Oh, now I know what you're talking about," she said with a nod, "your mother's that cursed lady who nearly killed herself over some stupid prince. That story's unfortunate."

The swan princess fought the tears that were trying to well in her eyes. She hated it when people pitied her. It made her feel even worse about her story and horrible ending.

"For the wizard," clarified Mira, observing her nails boredly. "Not only was he stuck with a useless daughter, but he also wasted his time with a swanification spell. I can think of about a hundred other curses that would've been way more efficient-"

"Uh, you'll have to excuse Mira," interrupted Apple as if sensing Duchess's boiling anger, "she…uh…likes to lighten the mood. She tries to be funny, but she can sometimes get a little too far with her jokes. I'm sure she didn't mean anything to be offensive, right Mira?"

Though no one else appeared to, Duchess heard Mira snort softly. "Yeah. I get carried away sometimes. I didn't mean to hurt your feelings." But the look she was giving Duchess said I-totally-meant-to-hurt-your-feelings.

"Whatever after!" spat the swan princess rudely. She then looked away so no one could see her tears. "I don't care anyway."

"How about I bake some cookies for you?" suggested Mira, her voice full of pretend sweetness. The only reason Duchess was able to identify the fakeness in her voice was because Duchess herself used that same tone countless times.

"Yeah, right. Like I'd eat something you made. It'd most likely be poison or something anyway," snorted Duchess, stomping her foot.

"Duchess, now you're not being fair," spoke up Briar, "she offered to make things right and-"

"Who cares?" snapped Duchess, upset about how Mira insulted her and how Daring had went back to staring at his reflection instead of protecting her. She was literally seconds away from kicking Briar in the leg.

"Duchess, calm down," said Apple gently, "there's no need to be-"

"Shut up! You don't know what it's like to be born with such a terrible story," Duchess blurted at her. "While I had to worry about my future and the happily ever after I wasn't destined to get, you just went around enthusing about your perfect story! You don't know what I've been through."

"Apple's story isn't really any better," yawned Mira, playing with her fork idly.

Okay, now Duchess heard it all. "How?" she hissed, "Snow White literally got her own Prince Charming, the biggest kingdom Ever After, became a flawless queen, and-"

"And how long do you think that'll last?" pointed out Mira, "if I remember correctly, the heroine's father marries the evil queen and she becomes the heroine's stepmother, right? Well, if you really think about it, that means after Apple marries Daring-" Duchess shuddered at the thought of that harpy marrying her Prince Charming. "-they'll have a baby girl and all that sappy stuff. But eventually, Daring will become Apple's widower so he can marry the Evil Queen. You can't tell me being abandoned by your own husband is considered living 'happily ever after'."

There was a moment of silence as realization hit everyone. "Whatever after," she spat, rising to her feet. Without even saying goodbye to Daring, who didn't seem aware of what was going on, the swan princess stormed away.

When she became the next Snow White, she'd show Mira and her stupid know-it-all logic. There was no way in hex Duchess was going to let Raven take away her Prince Charming.

No way in hex.


Raven was speechless.

Apple was speechless.

As they'd been doing for the past few minutes, the girls walked quietly down the hall. The two had been quiet ever since Mira had laid down some logic on Duchess during breakfast. Now, it was after school and the girls were still too shocked to speak.

"But eventually, Daring will become Apple's widower so he can marry the Evil Queen."

It wasn't until they were in the safety of their soundproof dorm room they spoke at once. "So does this mean?" asked Raven at the same time Apple was saying, "This can't be happening."

"Wait, wait, wait. So that was for real? I thought that was...I don't know. Some irrelevant detail that didn't really have anything to do with our actual story," said Raven slowly. "I didn't know that was actually what happened. I just figured that was what happened to the first Snow White and that's it."

Apple nodded. "So…if what Mira said is true…then…?" she trailed off. The two girls exchanged glances. "I'll call Grandmother," volunteered Apple, starting for her Mirrorpad on her dresser.

Raven bobbed her head, remaining silent as Apple did that. If she recalled her childhood, her parents, the Evil Queen and the Good King never really got along. Sure, they did have a few happy memories together, but that was it. She had no idea that…

"Hi, Grandmother," greeted Apple, setting up her Mirrorpad on its stand on her desk as Senior Queen White's face appeared onscreen. It looked like she was in her dining room.

"Hello, dear." Apple's grandmother smiled. "Are you calling to see Daphne Ann? I just put her to sleep upstairs but-"

"No, no. I…actually want to talk to you about something else," said Apple, hesitating.

Her grandmother immediately became worried. "This isn't about your mother, is it? What did she do now?"

"This doesn't have anything to do with Mom. Well, it does, but not directly," clarified Apple. She looked over her shoulder at first. "You remember Raven, right?" Raven gave a tiny wave.

Senior Queen White smiled. "Of course. She's the kind girl I met back when Daphne Ann was born. How are you, dear?"

"Good, ma'am."

"We actually wanted to know something. About our story," began Apple slowly. "What…happened to Grandfather? You never talk about him."

Seriousness spread across Senior Queen White's face. "I see," she said gently, "what this is all about." She inhaled and exhaled slowly. "I know you would've asked about this sooner or later, and I know Snow hasn't spoken about it."

Raven and Apple exchanged glances again, unsure of what was about to come.

"And yes, I never really talk about him," began Grandmother as if preparing herself for a mouthful, "and I never quite explained why I live out here all by myself. It's because of your grandfather, actually. As you know, Apple, the story says that the Evil Queen became Snow White's stepmother, but I am her actual mother. After Snow graduated from Ever After High, it was time for her fairytale magic to kick in." She paused for a second. "But before then, me and my husband were happily married. He was my true love and we had a beautiful baby girl. But even back then, we knew what would eventually become of us, but we didn't pay it any attention. We were in love and stayed that way. We grew older together but, after Snow graduated, the expected occurred and he became my widower. I couldn't do anything about it, so I was forced to leave the castle and the kingdom. However, my daughter ensured my safety by giving me a place to stay outside of our kingdom. But back to the point—after we separated, your grandfather married."

"To the Evil Queen," whispered Raven, realization hitting her like a hybrid carriage.

Senior Queen White nodded. "The Evil Queen married my ex-husband and became my daughter's stepmother, although they were about the same age. And as you know, the Evil Queen was cruel to Snow, she sent the Huntsman to obtain her heart, Snow ran away, the dwarves took her in, she ate the poisoned apple, was awaken with a kiss, and then became queen of her prince's kingdom. Meanwhile, her stepmother remained married to your grandfather, Apple. The years went by and Snow gave birth to your brothers then to you, her heiress. And not long after, the Evil Queen gave birth to her own heiress, my ex-husband, your grandfather, fathering this supposingly 'evil' heiress."

"Then it is true," said Raven softly, looking down at her shoes.

"Yes, dear." Apple's grandmother nodded. "I am—was the Good Queen and I was married to the Good King, who is the biological father of both you and Snow, Raven."

That revelation turned Raven inside AND out. She felt her body becoming shaky. Apple was quiet, but her face was whiter than snow. It was all so much. So Raven's dad was originally married to Apple's grandmother, but then he left her for Raven's mom, the Evil Queen. Then they had a daughter. And that daughter was Raven.

"So…so Raven's dad is my grandfather?" asked Apple shakily, trembling madly.

"And…Apple's mom…is my sister?" added Raven, feeling ready to collapse. "That means I'm Apple's aunt?" All this time, Raven had a sister? Someone else she shared blood with? Other family? Back when she'd been growing up, her mom and dad never really mentioned their other relatives, so this was a major shock to Raven.

"At first, I was heartbroken about our split-up," admitted Apple's grandmother, "back when Snow was a child, we'd go sailing together. The Good King loved being on the sea, surrounded by all that water. And he fished just as much as he sailed. They were two of his favorite hobbies."

Raven allowed herself to smile. She too remembered all those fishing trips her father had taken her on back when she was a little girl. Sure, her mother didn't enjoy those trips and certainly didn't like it when the Good King brought Raven along with him, but he always did it anyway no matter how much the Evil Queen ranted.

"And yes, dear. You are technically Apple's aunt," replied Grandmother patiently, adjusting her white-framed glasses. "Thus, making you Daphne Ann's great-aunt."

Okay, this was officially confusing. Though Raven had always known her birth story (the Evil Queen had made sure of that), Raven never knew about it. The only parts of Snow White and the Seven Dwarves ever stressed were the parts when Snow met the dwarves, ate the poison apple, and married her true love. Everything else had been indirectly deemed 'irrelevant' since no one really paid attention to the other details.

"Now that the both of you both know the truth, I'm sure you have a lot to reflect on," announced Senior Queen White, "if you wish to ask me anything else-"

"No, that's okay." Apple smiled weakly. "We don't want to keep you any longer. Thank you for your help, Grandmother." And with that, Apple ended the call with a swipe across the screen.

There was a moment of silence.

"This changes so much," sighed Apple, standing up and starting for her bed. She sat down on her comforter beside Gala. "So this means that the Evil Queen—your mom—is my stepgrandmother?"

"I guess it does since she married your grandfather, my father," answered Raven, leaning against the wall. She stared into thin air, deep in thought. "He never really mentioned anything about Mom's story. He never told me about-"

"Your half-sister. My mom," said Apple, falling onto her back and sprawling across her bed. "And she never really said anything about you in terms of blood ties. She just always referred to you as 'the Evil Queen's daughter'." Apple smiled a little. "Until recently, I thought that was all you were. Just the Evil Queen's daughter. I had no idea that you, my destined storybook rival, was actually my aunt. I never realized how much I was in the dark. I mean, I always knew the story said the Evil Queen became my mother's stepmother, but I never thought that was what happened. I just thought it was the evil queen's destiny to poison Snow White. I know, I'm not making sense but-"

"No, I get what you mean," assured Raven with a small chuckle. "I feel the same way. All of this is just…weird. There's so much to our stories and families we don't know about. Well, didn't."

Apple played with Gala's tail idly. "Yeah," she said shortly and somewhat gloomily.

"But this doesn't change anything," insisted Raven strongly, putting her hands on her hips. "We're still friends forever after and always will be."

Apple forced a small smile. "You might think that, but this does change things. Everything in fact. Think about it, Raven. You're my mom's sister. One I never knew she had, and one you never knew you were. Your biological dad's my grandfather, the one who was married to my grandmother before the Evil Queen and fathered my mom before you. It's been that way this whole time and neither of us 'knew' about it. Doesn't that bother you?"

Raven didn't reply right away. She was trying to decipher her own feelings and thoughts on the situation. She always knew about Snow White. She remembered seeing the queen on television and how much the Evil Queen had complained about her. She remembered being told that Snow White and her mother were storybook rivals and their hatred for each other was legendary. No one, not even the Good King, had ever told Raven the real truth about her relation to Snow. Until now, Raven didn't even know they shared blood.

"Well, I guess it does in a way," admitted Raven as dog-sized Nevermore flew in through the window and landed on the floor at Raven's feet. The girl reached down and rubbed her pet dragon's scaled head. "I always thought I was an only child. Neither of my parents said anything about our other relatives, so I really didn't think much of it." Raven pressed her lips together. "When I really think about it, I realize how screwed up my—our family is. If it wasn't bad enough they fought all throughout high school, the Evil Queen just had to go ruin Snow White's family by marrying her father regardless of their age difference. And to make things even worse, they had a baby together. That just sounds so messed up."

Apple sat up. "Yes. And this whole time I thought I was the one who soiled the family when I had Daphne Ann. But I'm actually thankful things happened the way they did. Otherwise, you wouldn't be here, and I honestly can't imagine what life would be like without you. I guess this just proves that even further that the worst of situations can also bring forth the best of things." She looked up at Raven and smiled wider. "So does this mean I have to call you Aunt Raven now?"

Raven laughed. "No way! For one, you'll make me feel old. Second, I really don't see you as a niece."

Apple nodded. "Good, because that would be awkward," she agreed. "Well, more awkward than what things already are."

True, things would be a tad bit different now, but Raven was honestly glad Apple's grandmother had enlightened them both. Because now, Raven knew the real truth. She had a sister! Though part of her was a little uneasy about it, the rest of her was hexcited. And she had so many questions! Did Snow White see Raven as her sister, or just plainly the Evil Queen's daughter? How did she feel about her archrival having a child with her dad? There was just so much to consider. Regarding that, Raven knew things were probably going to be complicated from now on. But she hoped things would work out in The End. They always did, after all.


"Raven! There you are!" exclaimed Mira, standing up from a table when Raven and Apple entered the library. "I was starting to wonder if you were going to show." She didn't seem to notice Apple, which was a relief to the perfect princess because every time Mira so much as took a glance at Apple, the princess felt hextremely guilty. How could she not considering she was the one who had released the most feared, wicked person in all of the Fairytale World? And speaking of releasing the Evil Queen, Apple was still super scared and uncertain about "Mira" attending Ever After High. She was the Evil Queen for crying out loud! She was most likely going to pull something wicked after her work at school was done. It had taken the guardians of Ever After forever after to imprison the Queen in the Mirror Realm, meaning it'd probably be near impossible to do it again. And what if word got out that it was Apple who set her free? Everyone would be so disappointed in her! Who knew what horrible things would happen to Apple.

The girl inwardly sighed. She was making so many mistakes now. So many rebellious mistakes. First, she fell in love with a commoner who wasn't in her story, then had a baby girl with him, and now she was allying herself with the Evil Queen, who she had accidentally freed from the mirror. Her life was the definition of a mess now. Everything Apple had worked so hard for was slowing sleeping away from her. Her story, Sparrow. And if things went according to the Evil Queen's plan, Raven would become evil and fulfill her part of the story. Though Apple knew it was her destiny, part of her didn't want to lose Raven. The good Raven. And what did Raven becoming evil accomplish for Apple anyway? Now that Duchess had her story, Apple wasn't going to eat the poisoned apple, awaken from coma thanks to Daring's kiss, and become queen and the Fairest In The Land. Or was she? Was Apple in denial? Was she still thinking and hoping that she'd get her happily ever after in The End?

"Sorry to keep you waiting. Apple and I…had some things to straighten out," said Raven with a warm smile. It broke Apple's heart to know how deceitful this all was. Here Raven was thinking she was doing a good deed by helping the new girl, who was actually her mother in disguise, oblivious to the real plan at work. She'd be beyond devastated and upset if she ever found out and Apple didn't think she could handle another douse of guilt. Her soul would be crushed forever after. "How about we show you the important stuff first?" suggested Raven as she and Mira started for the hallway with Apple quietly and slowly trailing behind them. "You know, like the charmitorium, the grimnasium-" The two disappeared into the corridor. Apple was about to hurry after them, but startled when a voice called out to her.

"Apple! Hey, Apple!"

The princess whirled around to see Holly bouncing over to her. Apple groaned with she saw Poppy and Sparrow, who weren't far behind. "Oh! Uh, hi guys," greeted Apple with a tiny wave.

"How have you been?" asked Holly, flipping some hair out of her face. "You haven't answered my hexts recently and I just wanted to know if everything's alright. I know, I know. Things can sometimes be stressful since a lot's hexpected from you and you don't have a lot of spare time, but-"

"Everything's fine!" blurted Apple a little too quickly. "I mean, sorry for not answering your calls. I've had a lot to do with…uh…stuff and I don't really have time to check my phone that often." Even from across the library, Apple heard Duchess snort.

"You have wayyyy too much on your plate, Apple," pointed out Poppy, "how about you visit the salon later? I can give you a free trim and we can catch up if you want." Apple couldn't help but notice that she was holding Sparrow's hand in that we're-totally-a-couple manner. Apple felt herself becoming flushed at the sight of her used-to-be crush holding hands with another girl, but she ignored those envious sensations. And speaking of Sparrow, the redhead was staring at Apple with his serious green eyes, his gaze burning a hole in Apple. She couldn't even bring herself to look him in the eyes.

"Oh, uh, I'd love that!" exclaimed Apple, putting a little too much emphasis on the word love. "I'll, uh, come in at around four o'clock. Is that cool? Cool! I have to go so see you all later!" And with that rushed response, Apple sped away. She couldn't do it. She couldn't face Holly with her sister and her boyfriend standing right there. It was too overwhelming. Too heartbreaking. And besides, she needed to keep an eye on Raven and Mira to make sure things didn't get out of hand.

The princess ran down the corridor, merging with the other foot traffic until she spotted the pair in the grimnasium. "Hi, guys!" she said, jogging over to them. They were standing in the center of the basketball court, struggling to hold back their giggles. "What's so funny?" asked Apple curiously. She turned and gasped to see Coach Gingerbreadman hanging from the high basketball hoop, the latter he'd most likely used to get up there lying on the floor. "What did you guys do?" frowned Apple.

"Oh, relax. It's just a little bit of dark magic," giggled Mira, looking delighted that Raven was just as amused.

"Raven Queen! Are you responsible for this?" demanded the coach, dangling from the hoop.

"No, sir!" called Raven, biting her tongue to keep herself from laughing out loud. "Though I wish I had," she whispered to Mira. They two giggled louder.

"Don't worry, coach. I'll help you," called up Apple, standing up the latter so the gingerbread man could get down. "Guys, that was so not-" She turned to see that Mira and Raven had already disappeared. Apple sighed. These two were going to be a handful. But she should've been happy, right? If Mira was successful, Raven would become evil in no time like she was supposed to. So…why did Apple feel like she was doing something wrong?

Pushing away those feelings of guilt, Apple hurried out of the gym. "Raven! Mira!" she called gently, "where are you girls?"

"EEEK!"

That girly scream caught Apple's attention. Oh no. The princess sped off in the direction the scream came from. "What are you two doing this time?" she demanded when she found Raven and Mira standing outside the Cooking Class-ic kitchen. The two were peaking into the classroom, laughing.

"Apple! Just in time! Come look at what me and Raven did," said Mira proudly, gesturing for Apple to come over. The princess sighed again and squeezed in between Raven and Mira, peering through the small window on the door.

Croaking frogs were hopping about all over the room and Ginger Breadhouse was running around trying to catch them. While she was trying to stop the aquatic creatures from getting into the mixing bowl, the oven started to smoke. Ginger squeaked and hurried over to get her burning pastries out of the oven. The second she opened one of the ovens, a thick cloud of black smog filled the room.

Apple was about to scold Raven, but stopped herself. This was what Raven was supposed to be doing. She was doing nothing wrong. Well, she technically was but that was okay for an evil princess.

"Oh, lighten up, Apple," insisted Mira as if detecting Apple's uneasiness, "it's just a harmless prank. Witches love frogs, remember? They're the ones who made frog-catching a sport. And besides, I heard Ginger's mom is famous for her sautéed frog legs. At least now Ginger will have a lot of frog legs to practice the recipe. C'mon, Raven. Let's leave Ginger to the frog-catching and go find something else to do."

Giggling, the two look-alikes proceeded down the hall, leaving Apple behind. It really looked like Raven was getting along nicely with Mira. Apple couldn't help but wonder how long that friendship would last. Eventually, Raven would probably realize that what she was doing was wrong. Or would she?

"Hey, Apple!"

Oh, great. Who was that now?

Apple turned around to see Briar skateboarding towards her. "Hey, Briar." Apple gave her BFFA a tiny wave. "What's up?"

"I'm just hanging out with Raven and the new girl," replied Apple tiredly, "they're…uh…energetic."

"Cool. Well, whenever you get a chance, I…I want to talk to you," said Briar, seriousness spreading across her face. "It's important."

Apple raised a questioning eyebrow. "Okay. Later on after dinner, okay? I'm supposed to be meeting Poppy at the salon later on so-"

"Okay, great. I'll see you then," said Briar, stepping back onto her skateboard. And shouting, "YOLOUAT!", the princess sped off down the corridor.

"See you," Apple weakly called after her. Honestly, why was she so drained these days? Maybe because there was a lot on her plate right now. And at this rate, Apple's hair would start turning gray. She needed to take a breather. Stressing herself out like this was totally not good for her health. Maybe she'd just go take a quick nap before she met up with Poppy. Yeah. That way, her mind would be refreshed. She'd just have to worry about Mira and Raven later.

Right as the princess was turning to head for the girls' dormitory, her Mirrorphone vibrated in her pocket. The girl retrieved it from her pocket to see she had a hext. From Duchess.

From: D. Swan
oct 14, 3:30
Meet me in the study hall.

Apple gulped. This most likely wouldn't be good. Duchess never corresponded with Apple unless she wanted something. Knowing Duchess would make things hard for her if she didn't cooperate, Apple let out a tired sigh and changed course.

When Apple arrived at the study hall, she was greeted with a snort from Duchess. "Good. You're here," she said rudely, rising from her seat at a front desk. "We need to talk."

Apple closed the door behind her. "What do you want? I already gave you my story. I don't owe you anything else."

Duchess laughed lightly. "Oh, Apple. I would watch my tone if I were you. Though you think otherwise, I'm the one who plays the cards here. In case you've forgotten, I can expose you and Sparrow at any time I want. And unless you want that, I suggest you watch your mouth, got it?"

Apple bowed her head. "Sorry," she muttered through gritted teeth. Oh, how she was starting to hate Duchess. Although her mother taught her better than that, Apple couldn't help it. Duchess was being a bitch and she knew it.

"Good. Now, about your—I mean my story," began Duchess, pacing around the classroom in deep thought. "As you know, I can't get it until I sign my name on your page in the real Storybook of Legends-"

"I don't know where it is, Duchess," said Apple in a monotone. "And neither does Raven," added Apple before Duchess decided to go there.

"But she's the Evil Queen's daughter! She has to know where it is!" insisted Duchess, stomping a foot. The swan princess was obviously desperate to ensure her happily ever after. If she signed Apple's page, the Snow White and the Seven Dwarves story would completely be hers and only hers. And nothing would be able to change that.

"Sorry, Duchess," shrugged Apple. Not. "Not even Headmaster Grimm knows where it is."

"That's why you're going to help me find it," snapped Duchess.

"Oh no. No way!" Apple shook her head. "For one, we don't have a clue about the book's whereabouts. Secondly, I don't have to work for you. You're already blackmailing me and that's enough." And without bothering to hear Duchess hiss another threat at her, Apple whirled around on her heels and exited the study hall.

She was so done with Duchess. The swan princess thought she had this all in the bag. That she was the victor. And true, she did win the battle.

But Apple was going to win the war.


"Yo, White."

Apple startled when she entered her dorm room to find Sparrow leaning against the wall. "What are you doing here?" asked Apple dully, trying not to sound excited in the slightest.

"You're not surprised to see me?" Smiling playfully, Sparrow pouted. "Harsh, man."

"Sparrow, please leave. I'm tired and I need a nap," said Apple, sitting down on her bed.

"How about you let me wear you out even more?" requested Sparrow playfully, licking his lips.

Apple felt herself blushing. "I'm a princess. Don't act so improper. And besides, aren't you with Poppy? Don't you have any decency? You would go behind her back like that?" If we were dating, would you go behind my back like that?

Sparrow ignored her question. "So how have you been, White?" asked Sparrow, not paying any attention to Gala, who was growling at him from across the room. "You haven't spoken to me in some time."

"Eh, maybe because you have a girlfriend now?" Apple furrowed her eyebrows. "I don't want to disrespect Poppy because unlike you, I'm decent." She didn't really care if she was insulting Sparrow. He was obviously up to something if he snuck up to her room.

Sparrow smiled teasingly. "Are you jealous by any chance? Not that I'm surprised. No girl can resist or give up on the Sparrow Hood."

"Sparrow, please. Let me be alone," requested Apple tiredly, "I told you, I'm tired. I don't feel like talking to you right now."

A look of annoyance spread across Sparrow's face. "Don't be like that, White. You know you still love me, so stop being so stubborn."

To be honest, Apple didn't really know if she still like-liked Sparrow. When she thought about it, she got into some kind of trouble every time she got up with him. And with Duchess watching her like a hawk, the last thing she needed was Sparrow following her around like a dog. "Sparrow, there's nothing going on between us anymore," informed Apple matter-of-factly, "you're dating another girl, meaning we're finished. So go harass someone else."

Sparrow frowned but didn't say anything. "Fine," he said softly, starting for the window. He looked over his shoulder at Apple. "But I do know you still have feelings for me. I can see it in your eyes."

"Goodbye, Sparrow," yawned Apple, anxious for the young man to leave. She closed her eyes, not wanting to watch him make his exit. Though she knew it was wrong, deep down, she had littlefeelings for the Hood, but she wasn't sure if they were legit or not. Did she just like him because they'd been together before and she didn't want to let him go, or because she truly loved him?

Love was so complicated. But like every equation, it could be resolved with a solution. Apple just had to find out what that solution was.


Apple felt herself getting nervous as she traveled down the cobblestone in Book End. Though she knew Poppy and Holly didn't know anything about Apple's and Sparrow's situation, the princess couldn't help but feel anxious. What if she was suspicious of Apple and wanted to question her? What if Duchess had told her something?

Relax, Apple. You're just being paranoid, Apple told herself. Poppy's sweet. She doesn't know anything.

The princess took a deep breath as she entered the Tower Hair Salon. Calming herself, she took the spiral staircase all the way to the stop of the tower where Poppy and Holly were waiting for her.

"Apple! Just in time. Please, take a seat," giggled Poppy, gesturing towards the giant red salon chair closest to the mirror. Holly, who was seated in the other salon chair, was writing in her notepad.

"So, Apple. How have you been?" the long auburn-haired princess asked as Apple took a seat in the chair. "Things have been hard for you lately and we just wanted to make sure you were alright."

Apple managed a smile. "Everything's fine, honestly. I just…don't know what to do about my story," admitted Apple as Poppy got to work on her hair. "Raven obviously doesn't want to be evil, and I don't know if our story will happen. And with the real Storybook of Legends gone…"

"All of our stories are in jeopardy," considered Holly softly, "since the Evil Queen stole the real one back when she was in high school."

"But that doesn't mean our stories won't happen, right? I mean, we don't need the Storybook of Legends in order to get our happily ever afters," pointed out Poppy, sounding like a true Rebel. "Right?"

Apple shrugged. "I…I really don't know. I want the happily ever after I was promised back when I was smaller, but…"

"But what?" asked Holly patiently.

"If I try to make that happen without signing the Storybook of Legends, would that make me a Rebel?" asked Apple softly, "since I would technically be choosing the destiny I want."

"No way! If you want that happily ever after, then make it happen. And so what if you have to be a little rebellious to get there? In a way, we all do things that are off book," said Poppy thoughtfully. Boy, did Apple know a thing or two about that. But she didn't want to be a Rebel anymore. She just wanted to be the perfect girl everyone expected her to be. "And just a word of advice, Apple," added Poppy, trimming up Apple's do. "From a friend to a friend. Don't always try to live up to everyone's hexpectations. You're your own person, and you can do what you want with your life. You shouldn't try to live a certain way to just impress others. Live that way because you want to."

Holly nodded. "Though I'm a Royal, I agree with my sister. We've all been blessed with life, so why not make the most of it? Like Briar's always saying, you only live once upon a time, so don't waste it trying to be someone you don't want to be. Live life for yourself. We're all different in our own ways. We all have our own dreams and that's what makes us special. That's what makes us who we are."

Apple wanted to cry. It seemed like all of her friends, both Rebels and Royals, were always encouraging her. Apple was thankful for that and their advice, but she…she couldn't just turn her back to all those people who wanted to see her accomplish big things. Just like she couldn't them know about Daphne Ann.

But deep-deep down, Apple did want to follow their advice. She didn't want to keep feeling guilty about her mistakes like it was the end of the world. She wanted to stop being such a perfectionist. She wanted the happily ever after she'd been promised, but she also wanted to forge her own path. But she was just too scared. Too uncertain. She lacked the courage to stand up for herself and her baby. She wasn't like Raven. She couldn't just…not do something because she didn't want to. Apple and Raven came from two different worlds. They didn't have the same freedoms.

Apple's entire family expected so much from her, and it was all kind of pressuring. Though she wanted a break from all the nagging and stress, she also wanted to please them. She didn't want to let them down.

But was living in her mom's shadow really the best thing for her? Was that really what Apple wanted?


"Okay, people! We'll split up into teams of five," called Ramona, blowing her whistle. Chatting and giggling among each other, the other nine girls split up into separate groups: Cerise, Briar, Faybelle, Blondie, and Ginger on one team, while Ramona, Duchess, Cupid, Melody, and Lizzie were on the other. "Cerise, you'll be the B Team's captain," called Ramona as she and her group took to their side of the court. The girls were readying to commence with their usual indoor volleyball session. "And I'll be the captain of the A Team. Up for a little competition, Hood?"

Cerise growled from the other side of the net. "Now, hold on! I should be the captain of this team," insisted Duchess, remaining where she was and crossing her arms. "I am the most popular girl in school after all."

Faybelle clicked her tongue in annoyance. "Tsk. Shut it, Swan. And why is Cerise captain of the B Team? That should be my role! I'm the daughter of the Dark Fairy, meaning I'm actually important!"

"Because I said so," replied Ramona as Dexter threw a volleyball over to her. "Now, everyone get into their positions so-"

"And why are we the B Team? I'm fairy royalty! I should be on the alpha team," argued Faybelle, pressing her lips together. "Plus I'm the top villain here at Ever After High, unlike you, Ramona. You're rep went downhill when you got shipped to reform school last year."

"Whatever, Thorn. Just get into position so we can play already," said Ramona, spinning the ball on her finger.

"Wait! I'm the lone princess of Wonderland!" spoke up Lizzie, holding up and waving around her coquet mallet. "I'm the one who should-"

"Lizzie, how many times have I told you? You don't use a mallet for volleyball," said Blondie with a smile and eye roll.

"But in Wonderland, all sports are played with a mallet!"

Ramona's eye twitched as Lizzie enthused about the history of Wonderland and mallets, while Faybelle and Duchess bickered about their superiority. Briar was passed out on the floor snoring sweetly, and Cupid was too busy watching Dexter. "Everyone pay attention!" ordered Ramona, using her alpha wolf growl. Briar startled awake and the other girls grew silent. Cerise, who wasn't impressed, just yawned.

"Okay, now we can play," said Ramona as everyone got into their proper position. She threw the volleyball up into the air and jumped upward to smack it over the net.

The girls on Team B all scrambled out of their positions to try to hit the ball, but they all ended up bumping into each other. Cerise, however, got out of their way and redirected the ball over to the net at Team A.

"I got it!" sang Duchess, reaching out for the ball. Right as she was about to hit it back towards Team B, the ball gained momentum and flew out of her reach. "Hey! Faybelle, are you using your magic again?" demanded Duchess, stomping her foot as the volleyball flew far across the court. "That's cheating, you know!"

"Hey, don't look at me," snapped Faybelle, flipping her blond ponytail out of the way. "I didn't do anything!"

Just then, the ball, that should've landed by the bleachers, rounded the corner and hurled itself towards the girl. "AHHH!" it growled, growing a pair of beady eyes and a mouth full of shark teeth. "I'M GONN AGET YOU!" it laughed evilly, soaring at the girls.

Most of the girls shrieked and ducked down low as the ball sailed overhead. "Faybelle! I knew you were cheating!" hissed Duchess as the sharkifed volleyball flew around, swooping down in an attempt to snatch up the girls. "You totally cursed it!"

"I said I didn't do anything!" Faybelle hissed, protecting her head with her arms as the volleyball tried to bite it off her shoulders.

Ramona growled with annoyance. This was getting bothersome. Paying no attention to the other distressed girls, the Badwolf used her wolf abilities to boost herself up into the air. She caught the possessed ball, stabbing it when her long red fingernails the second it was in her grasp. The ball hollered with pain as it deflated.

"Okay, who's the wise guy?" demanded Ramona, landing lightly on her feet. "When I discover who did this, you're gonna look way worse than this!" The Badwolf held up the flattened volleyball for all to see.

The other girls excluding Faybelle, Duchess, and Cerise all cowered at the sight of angry Ramona. Ramona was about to start snapping when a pair of giggles echoed through the gym. Everyone simultaneously turned to see Raven and the new girl standing in the doorway, laughing and whispering to one another.

"Raven Queen! I should've known!" Duchess stomped her foot angrily. "You nearly hurt me!"

"Relax, Swan. It was just a harmless little prank," called the new girl, putting her hands on her hips. "No harm was done."

"Yeah, but there could've been causalities," snarled Ramona, dropping the deflated ball. "Thanks to your dark magic."

The new girl just shrugged. "So what? Nobody got hurt in the end, so it's no big deal. C'mon, Raven. Let's go do something else." There was silence as she and Raven disappeared into the corridor.

"Who was that?" muttered Ramona.

"That's Mira, the new girl," answered Duchess in disgust, "you can tear her apart for all I care. She's super rude."

Ramona frowned. "She's trouble," she agreed knowingly.

"Yeah, well so are you," countered Cerise, pulling her hood further over her head. "I gotta go. Later." And with that, the Hood walked away, blending into the shadows.

Ramona growled. She had a hunch that was telling her there was definitely something off about the new girl. Ramona would have to keep a close eye on her for sure…


"So, Raven. How was it like growing up with the Evil Queen?" asked Mira as the two walked through the rose garden. The sun was setting in the horizon, streaking the sky with soft orange and pink.

Raven yawned sleepily. "Let's just say I didn't grow up like normal kids," she said as they passed by a hedge sculpted like a dragon. "Ever since I can remember my mom was trying to make me evil. She made me sit through meetings with her warlords, taught me how to brew potions, and even turned the puppy my dad gave me into a bone rat. You might think I was super lucky to have such an infamous mom, but it was really torture. Every time I did something good, she scolded me like I'd done something wrong."

Mira looked disappointed. Being a girl from the city, she was probably eager to hear what life was like as a royal. "It wasn't all bad, right? You got to attend royal galas, meet all sorts of famous fairytales, and be treated like a divinity. Wasn't that cool?"

Raven shrugged. "Not really. I never got a thrill out of that kind of stuff. Because regardless of what happened, it always ended up with Mom trying to turn me evil. That got old eventually."

There was a moment of silence. "Do you ever feel bad about what happened to her?" hesitated Mira, "because she crossed her story's boundaries?"

"Not really. I do love her, but she deserved it," answered Raven casually. "What's wrong is wrong even if she thought it was right."

"Well, do you think she'd be proud of or disappointed in you?" wondered aloud Mira.

Raven looked down at her feet. She often wondered that herself. "I think it's a little bit of both," she admitted, "she wants—wanted me to be evil more than anything, and didn't like it whenever I did something good. But at the same time, I think she'd be proud of me."

"Of course she would! You're the founder of a rebellion," pointed out Mira, "I'm sure she'd love to see you and hear about all the power you've obtained."

Raven laughed. "You got it all wrong, Mira. I don't really have any power—I just…inspired people to write their own destinies. I didn't tell them to do anything. They made the choice to be a Rebel themselves."

"And speaking of being a Rebel, what do you want to do after high school?" questioned Mira slowly.

Raven shrugged again. "I dunno. I'm not trying to rush things. I'm only in high school. I don't have to work out my entire life right now."

"And what about your fairytale magic? As the Evil Queen's daughter, won't your magic make you evil?"

Raven paused. She never thought about that. Fairytale magic. The same thing that made Holly's hair grow so long, and gave Duchess her ability to transform into a swan. Fairytale magic was the thing that made guys swoon over Apple whenever she batted her eyelashes, and the reason Melody Piper could enchant people and animals with her music. Them and the rest of Raven's classmates all possessed magic that was passed down from their fairytale parents. Fairytale magic was what made fairytales what they were. It was what made everyone at Ever After High different.

And since Raven had inherited her mom's black magic, which must've meant the Evil Queen's fairytale magic coursed through her. So…did that mean she'd become evil like her mother whether she wanted to or not?

"I-I don't know," admitted Raven.

"Well, if it works like everyone's fairytale magic, then you probably will be evil by the end of your senior year," insisted Mira like it was no big deal, "so since it's inevitable, why don't you just become evil now? Then you wouldn't have to worry about it in the future."

Raven shook her head. "I appreciate your concern, but…I don't want to be evil."

But regardless of what she believed in, did her choice really matter? Was it really her destiny to be evil?


A/N: Tell me what you think. Do you think Apple and Raven are really related? I think they are. Even if it's not by blood, Raven would still be Snow's stepsister since the Evil Queen became Snow's stepmother.