Chapter Forty Four


A/N: I do not own anything other than my OCs when they come out to play. Everything else either belongs to Disney or the Greek Myths.

*ducks from projectiles* sorry, sorry! I know it's a long chapter! I always have a lot of...shall we say irritation toward Family Day and it kinda came out here. Specially canon Ben not standing up for Mal when Leah started going in about the spells and not being able to raise her daughter. I know Mal can stand up for herself but this is your girlfriend Ben!

*smacks inner voice over the head* silence you! This is an AU-and also the chapter's long enough without your rants!

As always, special thanks to AmethystDragon14. Our little ficlets in our PMs helped a lot in creating this chapter!

Hope you all enjoy!


Mal sighed as she got dressed into her outfit for Family Day. She knew Ben was probably going to be wearing a suit and the last thing she'd want to do is embarrass him in front of his family.

She rubbed her shoulder, which still smarted after her confrontation with Freddy boy the day before. Mal knew it would probably be a while before it didn't smart anymore, she was incredibly lucky that it had been a shallow hit. The nurse was even amazed that Mal hadn't been more injured.

Personally, Mal was more amazed that the nurse didn't ask more questions, though with Ben standing by her side, that was probably the reason why Mal didn't get the third degree.

She had to thank her father's God side for the minimal injuries—but even though Persephone had adopted her, Mal was still biologically Maleficent's. Meaning she still had the weaknesses of the Fae.

Mal hadn't noticed the bit of iron on the blade, and while she was lucky the iron had never entered her bloodstream, the iron part had still touched her shoulder. The burn hurt more than the stabbing if she was being honest.

Honestly, the hole it left in my jacket was worse than anything. The wound will heal but I'm horrid at sewing, Mal thought bitterly. She had had that jacket since she was eight and this was the first rip/tear/spill that had graced it.

"Mal?" Evie said softly, walking up to the purple haired Godling. Evie was dressed in her Family Day outfit already, a blue and green dress that even Mal had to admit looked good on her.

"Yeah Evie?"

Evie gave her a small smile. "I know you spent last night in Jay's room but you'd dropped your jacket off…I hope you don't mind but I noticed you had gotten a hole in the shoulder doing whatever you were doing with Ben. Everyone on the Isle know how much you love this jacket considering that time you almost killed one of the Angels for almost getting paint on it when we all were eleven according to the Isle gossip grapevine…here."

The blue haired girl handed Mal her jacket and Mal was amazed to see that the hole had been sewn up. The thread was so fine that it was practically invisible at first glance; Mal had to run her hand over it to even know there had been a hole there.

"Evie…"

"I know we'll never be the closest," Evie said. "But we don't have a lot of possessions that are in as good of shape as your jacket is. Considering what you said when we first arrived, is…is it safe to assume Lady Persephone gave you that?"

Mal nodded slightly, still amazed at the skill Evie had taken to make sure the jacket looked brand new. "Mom made me this jacket…she had made it a bit big so I'd grow into it and I'd be able to have it for years after she gave it to me."

"Well she did a good job," Evie said. "That's some nice quality leather…at least judging by the feel. Oh! Your coronation dress is done too. After Family Day, we can pull up and I can do a final fitting."

"Evie, did you sleep at all last night?" Mal asked, surprising herself with the fact that she genuinely cared. But Evie had repaired her jacket and hadn't informed Fairy Godmother about her spending the night in Jay's room again. The least Mal could do is give a damn about Evie's health.

Actually, if Mal was honest, Evie had seemed a bit off ever since Fairy Godmother surprised them in their last Remedial Goodness class with a video conference with their parents. Or, Mal should say, surprised the other three. Mal had ducked out, claiming a woman's time of the month. She didn't trust Fairy Godmother not to make the same mistake as whoever addressed their invites off the Isle.

Apparently, she made the right choice as, according to Jay, Maleficent had been there but had left upon seeing there was no Mal. However, Jay had mentioned that Maleficent had looked extra long at Evie before leaving.

It was probably nothing, Mal thought as she put her jacket on the bed. Probably wondering where I was if Maleficent gave a damn about me at all. Doesn't matter anyway, I'm about to see mom for the first time in what feels like forever.

Evie shrugged as if to answer Mal's question. "I'll get a nap in later," she said, her voice still cheerful. "Come on, we don't want to be late for Family Day. Doug said the Glee club's putting on a performance for the parents."

"Oh we wouldn't want to miss that," Mal said with a small eye roll as she grabbed the only piece of jewelry she owned. Well with the exception of a couple of earrings. The piece in question was a dark blue flame sapphire charm on a silver chain.

Her parents had given it to her on her thirteenth birthday and she had always worn it under her jacket—the collar of her jacket was high enough to cover the gleam of the silver chain and keeping it zipped hid the charm.

Quickly putting the necklace on, Mal winced slightly as her blazer rubbed against the bandage on her shoulder.

I have a good pain tolerance but being in pain while dealing with all of the Auradon royals is not something I thought I'd experience, she thought as Jay and Carlos met up with the two girls before making their way to the quad where Family Day was being held.

Mal couldn't help but smirk a little as she heard the music down on the quad. Ben's voice carried to the school and while Mal appreciated a classic, it felt rather…vanilla.

I mean, 'Be Our Guest' is good but it's kinda on the nose isn't it? The son of Belle and Beastie, singing one of their songs? Mal thought. She couldn't help but think back to when she was about thirteen or fourteen and Hadie was about seven, the two of them goofing off on the guitar.

"Hey storm cloud," Mal said with a small smirk as she walked into the den. "Whatcha working on?"

"Hey Mali," Hadie gave her a smile while he tuned his guitar. It had been a rare opportunity two years ago but one of the barges had had an acoustic guitar—one of the Boreadon elite must have thrown it out after it broke a string. Mal hadn't cared about that and swiped it to give to Hadie for his birthday. Sure it was missing a string but other than that, the guitar was in near perfect shape. "I'm just practicing."

Mal grinned; their father had been teaching Hadie how to play the guitar since her brother was about five. Just as Mal loved her power lessons, Hadie loved his practice sessions with their father.

"I came up with a song," Hadie said. "You know how Wonderbreath has that song all about how great he is? I figured dad should have something like that but I can't come up with any lyrics."

"Well why don't you play a bit of what you have and I'll see if I can help," Mal said and Hadie started playing. Tilting her head in thought, Mal pulled out her sketchbook from her pocket and started to write.

"Okay, what about this?" Mal said after a few minutes. "Steal my soul, Hades' on a roll. Greek God of the week on every Isle poll! What a pro, Hades owns your soul. Stick him with a contract and you're talking S.R.O! He was a baby (when he got eaten), now he's a hothead (Frollo calls him a heathen)! He's got the moxie, brains and spunk—Olympus to Isle, that really stunk. Olympus to Isle…who'd have thunk?"

Hadie grinned. "Oh I like that Mali! Are we going to stick with just that or should we carry on with the song?"

"Let's keep going," Mal said, scooting closer to her brother. This was how their father found them a few hours later.

"You two have been very quiet. Why?"

"Honestly dad, it's like you don't trust us," Mal said with a small smirk.

"You're my children, of course I trust you Mali. However you're also children on the Isle of the Lost so I know you're plotting something."

Hadie chuckled. "We're just writing a song dad."

"Oh really? Can I hear it?"

Mal and Hadie looked at each other and grinned, springing to their feet as Hadie started playing on the guitar.

"Who puts the glad in 'gladiator'? Hades! Who's Isle deeds make for great theater?! Hades! Is he hot? He's on fire! Is he—?"

"Okay, okay," Hades said, cutting them off.

"But dad!"

"I was around when the muses performed the original, I know how long that goes," Hades said with a chuckle. "I'm going back to work, you all can keep writing that if you want. Don't destroy the Underworld."

"Yes dad!" Mal and Hadie said with innocent grins that Hades didn't believe for a second.

"What are you thinking about?" Jay muttered, pulling her out of her thoughts.

"Dad," Mal muttered back and Jay nodded. Mal sighed and shook her head. "I guess we should make our way down there huh?"

"Do we have to?" Carlos asked. "None of us actually have family down there. Well except for you Mal."

Mal sighed. "It's up to you Carlos. But if we don't at least make an appearance, Sleeping Brat and her lackeys will start stirring up rumors about us."

"What else is new?" Jay scoffed. "Still, I'm with you til the end of the line cap'n."

Mal nodded. "I know Jay."

"Well, it can't hurt to make an appearance," Evie said softly. "After all we're Auradon Prep students. We've just as much right to be there as Audrey and her friends."

Mal nodded and the four of them slowly made their way down to the quad, Mal quickly grabbing a nearby strawberry from a table as Evie and Carlos seemed to separate from her and Jay. She couldn't help but frown, despite not being all that close to Evie and only just warming up to Carlos, they were VKs in a sea of Auradonians. Safety in numbers after all.

"Mal!" Ben called and Mal grinned upon seeing him. That grin seemed to fade into a look of shock as she took in what Ben was wearing.

"What's with the look?" Ben asked and Mal had to shake her head a little.

"You—You look great!"

Ben gave her a small smile. "You really think so? Akiho and Emir dragged me off shopping after we got back from our trip yesterday and I figured it'd be a good idea to wear my new shirt. I won't have a lot of opportunities after tomorrow. I already got my photo with my parents wearing the suit blazer so everything else doesn't matter."

Mal grinned and took in the shirt. It was a blue and white shirt with sleeves that seemed to come down about three quarters of his arms. Oddly enough, it seemed to bring out the green in his eyes. It paired really nicely with his dress pants; if Mal hadn't known it wasn't a dress shirt, she would have been completely fooled.

"Ben, if you're worried about people's reaction to you wearing something 'not formal', don't be," Mal said gently, seeing the slight worry in Ben's eyes. "Anyone who says you shouldn't be wearing that is stuck in the 14th century."

Ben gave her a weak smile. "I know and I like wearing this. It's just…it's the first time since I think I was six that I haven't been in a complete suit around this many royals. Family Day's nerve wracking enough, even for me…"

"Okay, take a deep breath," Mal said gently. "It's just clothes. If anyone makes a comment, you send them to me or you send them to your shadows. Okay? Now, go on. I think I see your parents over there. I know you said you had a photo with them but that's not the same as an official visit. They're going to think something's wrong if we hang out here all day."

"Hey, there's nothing wrong with hanging out with you."

"I know Ben, but it is Family Day. At some point, you will have to hang out with your family."

"Okay," Ben said with a chuckle.

Mal gave him a small smile. "Go on. I'll be right here if the conversation gets too boring. And Ben…think of it this way. Rules were meant to be broken. If they weren't, I wouldn't be here. You're happy about that right?"

"Of course I am!" Ben said with a small smile of his own.

"There you go."

Ben leaned over and kissed her cheek, unaware of what he'd done as he was lost in thought. "Okay, I'm going. Otherwise, mom and dad'll be coming over here. As much as I want to introduce you to my parents, that might be a bit awkward."

"Go!" Mal said with a chuckle.

Ben nodded and took a soft breath before walking over to his parents. "Hey mom, hey dad."

Belle smiled and gave him a hug which Ben happily returned.

"One might say you're happy to see me, mom," he teased.

"Hush you," Belle told him with a chuckle.

"Yes mom. It's good to see you."

"It's good to see you too Ben," Belle said gently. "You look happy."

Ben nodded with a small smile.

"You know son, I know I see you at the council meetings but that doesn't mean you don't have to greet me," Beast teased gently.

Ben grinned, chuckling as he hugged his father. "Hi dad," he said.

"Hello Ben," Beast said, returning the hug. "You're looking well. I meant to say that during the picture but we didn't really have the chance to talk."

"Thanks dad," Ben said with a smile. "How've you two been?"

"We've been good Ben," Belle said, a smile of her own on her lips. "Your father keeps insisting I've read every book in our library though."

"You probably have, mom."

"See Belle? I told you Ben would agree with me!" Beast said with a chuckle.

"Honestly! I haven't read every book in the library," Belle said, rolling her eyes. "Some of them are in Greek."

"And I'm sure that knowing you, you'll learn Greek just to read them," Beast teased.

"Maybe after coronation dear. Greek is a hard language to learn. So Ben, what have you been up to?" Belle asked and Ben paused.

Would this be a good time to bring up the fact that I have a new girlfriend? Ben thought. I mean, they have kinda given me an opening.

Taking a small breath, Ben said, "I have a new girlfriend."

"Oh," Belle said with a small smile.

"Yeah," Ben nodded, smiling as he thought of Mal.

"Do we know your new girlfriend?" Beast asked.

"Sort of."

"Well I'm sure we'll meet her later if she's here with her family," Belle said and Ben nodded.

Mal is here with Jay so that counts as her family if Lady Persephone isn't here, Ben thought with a slightly sad smile.

"I have to say Ben, I like your new shirt," Belle said, pulling Ben out of his thoughts. "It suits you."

"Thanks mom," Ben said, smiling a little. "Emir and Akiho got tired of the suits."

"Why am I not surprised those two were involved somehow?"

"Because they usually are," Ben said with a chuckle.

"Honestly, I'm surprised they're not glued to your side like they usually are," Belle shook her head in amusement.

"Don't speak too soon mom. Right now though, they should be on dates but I'm sure they'll find a way to glue themselves to my side sooner or later," Ben said. It had taken about three hours but Ben had finally convinced those two to ask out Emma White and Elle, Ariel's eldest daughter. Also known as the two girls Emir and Akiho had been pining over for three years. Each.

"Well I know this guy looks like Ben and sounds like Ben but it can't be Ben. My petit frère in something other than a completed suit?" Chip's voice sounded from behind Ben.

"Chip!" Ben spun around and practically tackled the older boy.

"Oof! Hey Ben," Chip said with a chuckle. "Gee, you'd think you were happy to see me or something."

"Cut me some slack, I haven't seen you in ages!"

"Oh yeah," Chip chuckled. "Well I'm here now—and whoever picked out that shirt for you needs to be knighted. Looking good, Benji!"

"Thanks," Ben chuckled.

"You're welcome Ben," Chip said, wrapping his arm around Ben's shoulders. "Hey Belle, Adam. Sorry I'm late."

"Not a problem Chip."

"Oh! So I told mom and dad but you should probably know too Chip," Ben said. "I have a new girlfriend."

"Considering I'm the one you called for help with your date, I would hope so," Chip chuckled. "Is she the one who got you your new shirt?"

"No, Emir and Akiho are the ones who got my shirt," Ben said with a small smile.

"Well where is she?" Chip asked. "I for one would love to meet her!"

"She's over…Mal!" Ben gave a small wave to get Mal's attention, not noticing how his parents seemed to freeze. He smiled as Mal walked over, meeting her halfway up the path. "Mal, I want you to meet my parents and Chip."

"Ben, is this a good idea?" Mal asked softly, biting her lip. "You know, with me being from the Isle and all?"

"Mal, Chip already loves you."

"Ben, Chip hasn't even met me…and what about your parents?"

"They want to meet you too."

Mal sighed. "Okay Ben…if you're sure."

Ben gave her a soft smile before turning back toward his parents and Chip, taking care to wrap his arm around Mal's waist and not her shoulder as to not cause her pain. "Mom, dad, Chip. This is Mal. From the Isle. My girlfriend."

"Hi," Mal said with a shy smile, bowing her head a little. She wasn't going to give them a full on curtsey considering what all Beastie and Belle had done to her family, to the people of the Isle, but she'd be polite.

"Hello Mal," Belle said but it was obvious to anyone with eyes that she was shocked. Beast just nodded, as shocked as his wife.

Chip, however, had no qualms about Ben dating Mal. "Enchante mademoiselle," he said with a smile. "Anyone who can get Ben to break off the betrothal contract is more than welcome here."

"Believe me, it took some convincing," Mal said with a chuckle.

"I can believe it. Benji's stubborn when he wants to be."

Ben rolled his eyes. "I'm not that stubborn," he muttered.

"Ben, take it from me. You're stubborn," Chip said with a chuckle and Mal couldn't help but giggle slightly.

Chip grinned. "See? Even your girlfriend thinks you're stubborn. How'd your date at the Enchanted Lake go by the way?"

"Should I be worried you're this invested in my relationship with Mal?" Ben asked. "Cause you weren't like this with Audrey."

"Benji, you weren't like this with Audrey," Chip stated. "But let's not talk about Princess Leech, especially since the Beauty Matriarch from Hell is probably on the warpath right now. Plus probably not the best idea to talk about your ex in front of your current girlfriend."

"How would you know? You're always single," Ben teased. Mal remained silent though, smirking slightly at the new nickname for Sleeping Brat.

Oh just wait till Jay hears the new nickname, she thought.

"Well anyway, how about lunch?" Ben offered.

"Sounds good to me," Mal nodded. Ben smiled and the three of them started to make their way to the food tent.

"She really is a good fit for you Benji," Chip whispered to Ben. "You seem like you actually like her. Whenever I saw you around Audrey and she clung to your arm, you looked like you couldn't get out of there fast enough."

"Yeah well…Mal's not a 'clinger' as you put it. The only reason she wrapped her arm around my waist was because she probably wanted to make a good impression on mom and dad."

"Considering your parents haven't said a word since she said hello, I think your folks are still stunned," Chip muttered.

Mal couldn't help but frown slightly as she heard that. She didn't know why she expected anything less from Belle and Beastie though.

Ben frowned and turned to his parents. "Mom, dad? Are you going to join us for lunch?"

"Oh, um, of course!"

"Great!" Ben grinned, turning away and taking Mal's hand; lacing his fingers through hers.

Buck up Mal, you can vent to Jay later if you insist. At least let Ben think you're happy, she thought. Besides, at least Belle and Beast aren't being rude or snobby…and you know you're not the typical girl Ben might date. Of course they're in shock. Who wouldn't be…at least to them, Maleficent's daughter is dating their son. Honestly I'm surprised Beast hasn't ordered guards to separate me and Ben. Probably doesn't want to cause a panic with the other royals. Got to keep up the royal image after all…

"What are you hungry for?" Ben asked gently, pulling Mal out of her thoughts.

"I'm not fussy," Mal told him with a small smile.

"Are you sure? Anything you want, name it and I bet they can make it."

"Ben, seriously, whatever that they have to offer is fine."

Ben nodded, the memory of what they had eaten on the Isle coming to the forefront of his mind. "They usually have a buffet or you can order something from the menu."

"I'll just get something from the buffet."

Ordering from the menu just seemed too…greedy for her…and that was the last thing she wanted to be. Not when she knew first hand how precious food was.

Of course Boreadon has enough food to offer both a menu and a buffet, Mal thought with an inward sigh. Meanwhile kids on the Isle are dying between food shipments…don't think about that. You're trying to make a good impression and play nice. Ending up in a yelling match with Beastie is not the way to go.

"Ben, how about a game of croquet after lunch?" Beast asked, speaking for the first time since Mal walked up.

"Sure," Ben grinned, looking over at Mal. "Have you played before?"

"No."

"You'll be fine," Ben reassured her.

"Ben, I don't even know what croquet is," Mal said softly.

"You hit a ball with a mallet, that's basically all it is."

Mal nodded. Seems rather boring, she thought.

"Come on," Ben said gently. "We can grab some food from the buffet and sit back down…or I can grab a plate for you if you want?"

"I'll come with you."

There was no way she could stand the awkwardness of being left alone with his parents, considering Chip had already descended upon the buffet.

"Okay," Ben said with a smile. "There's chicken, soup, salad, burgers…"

"Um…I'll have some chicken," Mal said. It wouldn't be as good as her dad's but at least it might feel like a bit of home.

Ben smiled. "Help yourself."

Mal smiled back and the two of them walked up to the buffet to grab their food. Twenty minutes later, Mal tried to hide her bored expression as she stared at the ground.

How in the world was this supposed to be fun?! I'm about to whack my head with this mallet—if Ben is actually enjoying this, I'm seriously worried about this boy! Oh Gods, this is killing my shoulder! Just fake it Mal. It'll be over soon and then I can relax with Ben. At least the other royals are basically ignoring me and I haven't seen any sign of Sleeping Brat. That's good, at least I don't have to play nice the way Evie is with Snow or the way Carlos is with Anita. All I have to be is pretend to be interested in croquet.

"I find it boring too," Chip muttered to Mal as he walked up.

"How do you stand it?" Mal muttered back, slightly concerned that the former teacup had read her mind.

"Oh usually by cursing the inventor of the game in my head. Though I'm horrible at it so I usually bow out after a round."

Mal smiled. "I might just do that. I'm going to take the rest of my plate to Jay."

"Sounds good. I'll let Ben know if he asks."

Mal smiled and grabbed her plate, walking over to the boy who was practically her brother. "Jay!"

"Yeah Mal?"

"Here. I can't eat it all and it shouldn't go to waste. It's not as good as dad's but it's decent," Mal said softly, handing Jay the plate.

"Thanks Mal," Jay said, taking the plate. "How's the…whatever it was you were doing?"

"Mind numbingly boring, but I'm trying to play nice though I think they already don't like me," Mal sighed.

"It's King Beastie. I'm pretty sure he doesn't like any of us from the Isle," Jay sighed.

"True, as Audrey said, in my story the evil fairy doesn't turn into the princess, she's just the evil fairy."

"Since when does what Audrey says matter? Besides the only way you're connected to Maleficent's story is because she gave you life. That's it."

"Don't worry about me Jay," Mal said with a sad smile. "I'll just enjoy this while it lasts."

"You think something's going to happen?" Jay asked, tensing a little.

"Jay, we're VKs surrounded by royals. It's not out of the realm of possibilities. As I said, I'll enjoy it while it lasts."

"I'm with you no matter what happens Mal," Jay said, keeping his voice low.

"I know."

Jay gave her a small smile and nibbled on some of the chicken. "You're right, it is good…not as good as Lord Hades' but still good."

"Share it with Carlos if you want. He needs some fattening up."

"I'll share it with him if I see him."

"Good."

Jay nodded. "So…I know I'm jinxing us here but is it weird that the other royals are practically ignoring us?"

"Shh!" Mal hissed playfully. "If they ignore us then we don't have to play nice."

"Right," Jay nodded. "Let's give it another hour and then bounce. We did our part, made an appearance…"

Mal looked over at Ben, who was enjoying his round of croquet with Beast. "I don't know Jay…I mean don't I have to stay? As Ben's girlfriend? I mean I met his parents…they're going to wonder why we left early. You can go if you want though."

"You stay, I stay Mal." Jay said. "So, what do we do? Mingle?"

"It can't be any worse than croquet," Mal muttered.

"Yeah, that game seems really strange from what I saw," Jay shook his head and Mal snorted in amusement.

"You can say that again."

"...Wanna go make some smoke bombs and throw them at trees or something?"

"That sounds fun. I think there's a grove off a ways that'll work."

Jay grinned and the two of them snuck off to make the smoke bombs. Luckily the Chemistry classroom was still unlocked.

"Now this is fun," Mal said as she measured out the ingredients for the smoke bombs, earning a chuckle from Jay. Thankfully Freddy had hit her non dominant shoulder so she'd still be able to throw the smoke bombs.

"And we haven't even thrown them yet," Jay pointed out.

"Ooh I can't wait to see how Auradon smoke bombs compare to Isle smoke bombs."

"We'll just have to be careful not to be caught. Or accidentally hit one of the royals. The screams that would follow…"

"Oh now, you're just making it more tempting Jay," Mal said with a fake pout and Jay chuckled again.

"You can imagine the trees as the royals, how about that?"

"…deal."

"Great. Now come on. The sooner we get these made, the sooner we're out there pelting trees."

They got back to work and soon Mal and Jay rushed over to the grove with their bag filled of smoke bombs. Handing Jay a smoke bomb, Mal smirked. "Ready on three?"

"One…"

"…two…"

"…THREE!"

They threw their smoke bombs and the trees are soon covered in purple and yellow smoke. Mal couldn't help but cheer to herself.

This was fun, not whacking a ball with a mallet, she thought. I wonder if I can't get Ben to sneak away for a bit. Throwing smoke bombs isn't evil, it's more wicked if anything…and everyone has a wicked side after all.

"Hey Jay? Do you think we'd be able to get Ben to do this?" Mal asked as she tossed another smoke bomb.

"I'd say maybe not today but tomorrow's his coronation…if you can get him to slip away, I'd say go for it."

"Jay, you want me to get him to slip away at a televised event? I'm good but not that good."

"I meant today Mal," Jay chuckled. "I figured we'd have no shot at getting him to slip away tomorrow."

"That I can do."

"Then go for it cap'n."

Mal grinned. "Stay here, I'll be back with Ben," she said and scurried off. Quickly locating the brunet, Mal slid up next to him. "You want to sneak away?" Mal muttered to him.

"What did you have in mind?" Ben muttered back.

"Come on," Mal grinned. Ben shook his head and followed Mal back to the grove.

"This might get a bit crazy, just a fair warning," Mal said with a chuckle.

"Mal, you act as though I'm going to run screaming at the idea of something crazy."

"Well considering who you're around normally…"

"Oh you mean Akiho and Emir? AKA the kings of getting into mischief and dragging me along for the ride?" Ben chuckled and picked up a smoke bomb.

"Just aim for the tree Ben," Jay said, sitting on a nearby stump.

"I know how to throw a smoke bomb Jay," Ben told him.

"Really? Have you ever thrown one before?"

Ben smirked slightly and threw the smoke bomb right at Jay's chest. "That answer your question?"

Mal burst out laughing at Jay's stunned expression.

"You sir have just declared war!" Jay said after getting over the shock.

"Oh really? Bring it Jay!" Ben teased, grabbing another smoke bomb.

"You're going to be sorry you said that!"

Soon a barrage of smoke bombs start to fly amid Mal's laughter. The boys paused and smirked at each other. "You know Jay, I think Mal's missing out on the fun here," Ben teased.

"Think very carefully about what you're about to do next Ben," Mal said with a smirk.

"Oh? And what are you going to do if I say do this?" Ben asked as he threw the smoke bomb at her and that was all it took to get Mal involved. Soon the grove was filled with smoke and the sounds of laughter.

"I can clean it for you," Mal panted and giggled about fifteen minutes later as she flopped onto Ben, who was lying on his back grinning, Mal's hands running over his paint splattered shirt.

"It's fine, I'm sure it'll wash out," Ben grinned as he held her close to him. "And if not…it's just a shirt."

"I told you it would get crazy."

"I'm fine with crazy. Remember who my best friends are."

Mal chuckled. "We should get you cleaned up before someone comes looking for you. Even though frankly all you look like is a teen."

"I know, I know," Ben said softly. "But someone's going to ask what happened if we show back up covered in paint."

Mal sighed. "Beware forswear, make the paint stains disappear."

In the blink of an eye, all signs of the smoke bombs had vanished from all three of them.

"There," Mal said softly. "Like it never happened."

Now I just have to go back to pretending croquet is fun and being ignored by the royals…don't say anything. This is Ben's last day as a regular team before his coronation. Let's go.

Ben gently took her hand once more and laced his fingers through hers as they made their way back to Family Day. Mal gave him a small smile. Ben returned the smile and leaned down to kiss her cheek.

"If you don't want Leah screaming your ear off, I'd tone down the PDA," Chip muttered as he walked up to them.

"It was a kiss on the cheek Chip, come on!"

"You really think Queen Bat would care about that? She's already come by and badgered your parents. I think she came around about five minutes after you and Mal slipped away."

"What did she want?"

"Oh the usual. How could they allow the betrothal contract to be dissolved, think of how heartbroken Audrey was. She even asked if you were in the right mindset to ask for the end of the contract considering your performance on the Tourney field."

"Great," Ben groaned.

"Yeah. Your mom was awesome though. Basically told Leah as diplomatically as possible that she could take her opinion and stick it where the sun don't shine."

Mal smiled. Even if Belle was shocked by Ben dating me, at least she wasn't siding with Leah.

"Chip? How did dad respond to Leah's...barrage of questioning I guess would be the most polite term?" Ben asked.

"Basically said it was your choice, just like he told her after the Tourney game."

"Oh thank Gods!"

"You look like you've had a weight taken off of you," Mal said softly, giving his hand a small squeeze.

"Just…the fact that dad said it was my choice," Ben told her. "I know dad loves me but I also know Leah's on his council so he might have needed to appease her."

"Yeah well, she might not be on the council much longer," Mal muttered.

"That would be the day," Ben sighed.

"Well, who is going to be king tomorrow?"

"Er…I am."

"Exactly," Mal said with a small smirk.

"Oh…Oh!" Ben said and then smirked. "You, Mal, are a genius! Chip, I'm dating a genius."

"Of course you are," Chip chuckled. "Not like you wouldn't have come up with that on your own Benji."

"Anyway, Leah's days on the council are numbered after tomorrow," Mal said with a slight smile. Ben returned the smile and wrapped his arm around her waist, trying to avoid touching her shoulder.

"You're playing with fire right now Ben," Mal chuckled.

"Am I?" Ben teased. "I'm not doing anything, just showing affection to my girlfriend. Besides we'll hear Leah coming before we see her."

He smiled and lightly kissed Mal's cheek again.

"There you are!"

Mal felt Ben stiffen slightly but he kept a smile on his face. "Queen Leah, how can we help you?"

Is she an idiot? Shrieking like that at Ben? Mal thought. Then again, Leah never struck me as the most intelligent. The whole mess with Aurora could have been avoided by inviting Maleficent.

"I gather you've already spoken to my parents," Ben said diplomatically.

"I have, yes. I was hoping to clear up the mixup between our families regarding the betrothal contract and the embarrassment of poor Audrey!" Leah shrieked.

"Queen Leah, please lower your voice and we will discuss this calmly. However I fail to see how there could've been a mix up. After all, it was discussed with both my mother and Princess Aurora and they agreed to dissolve the contract," Ben stated. "Since they were the ones who made the contract in the first place, it appears it has been amicably dissolved. Unless Princess Aurora changed her mind?"

"The contract was legally binding! They had no right to dissolve it without consulting me!" Leah exclaimed.

"The contract also relies on consent. I simply withdrew mine," Ben said, his voice growing a bit firmer. "Queen Leah, it's the twenty first century. Are you saying that I don't have the right to consent to marry who I choose? Audrey and I are just not compatible. Are you saying you want your granddaughter to be miserable?"

"Of course not! But Ben, Audrey was so happy when you two were together-every couple have these ups and downs, and can you really say that it's you making this call?"

"Queen Leah, just what are you implying?" Ben asked, his voice growing firmer.

"Simply that many of your friends don't like poor Audrey and that you've been getting closer than advised to a certain someone who as you know has it in for my family," Leah said, eyeing Mal with distain.

"Oh are you referring to my girlfriend?" Ben asked, his polite smile becoming fixed. "And, while true my friends may not have been the fondest of Audrey, they didn't influence my decision to withdraw my consent. You say that you don't want your granddaughter to be miserable, am I not allowed the same consideration? Let us not forget that Audrey and I were three when we were put in the contract. You can't hold three year olds accountable for things done on their behalf nor did you give thought to the fact that Audrey and I may not want to be in a relationship as we got older. I'm sorry but the way Audrey handled the break up only serves as a sign to me that I made the right decision. Now, we can continue to discuss this but I'm going to have to ask that you leave my friends and my girlfriend out of this."

Ben gave Jay a pointed look as if to tell him to take Mal away from the conversation. "Go on. I'll be fine," he said to Mal, his tone turning gentle as Jay came up and led her off.

Mal frowned but let Jay lead her away a bit, staying in earshot. "Jay, what are you doing? Since when do we run from a fight?" she whispered.

"We're not running. We're making a tactical retreat."

"From that old bat? We're just going to abandon Ben? I thought our motto was ruthless yet loyal not flee and abandon?"

"Mal, it was at Ben's request."

"Jay, this is the same guy who used to think skipping meals was perfectly normal."

"Mal, think about what'll happen if we got involved. I don't like backing down anymore than you do but if we get involved, even if she starts something, we'll be the ones blamed. If we're the ones blamed then Ben'll have a harder time bringing over more kids from the Isle."

"…Fine Jay. But we stay here and we stay within earshot. If Ben needs help, I'm not abandoning him."

Jay nodded as Mal sighed and looked out toward the Isle. "Do you miss them?" she asked softly.

"Every day. But that's why we can't get involved."

Mal nodded. "For Uma, Harry and Hadie. But Jay, you know Ben is a people pleaser. Leah might try to play on that."

"I don't think he'll let her Mal," Emir said, walking over.

"Yeah Mal, now that he's free of the contract I doubt Ben would let someone talk him back into it," Akiho agreed. "Look at him: his back's totally straight, his head's up, his eyes are almost narrowed. He's not going to back down."

"I know you guys know Ben best, being friends for twelve years, but this isn't Audrey. It's Leah. Audrey had to get her sliminess from somewhere."

Mal bit her lip, she didn't want Ben back in the stupid contract and not just because Audrey would be happy with that result. She found she actually cared for Ben...and enjoyed being in the relationship with him.

"Ben, you and Audrey were so good together. I'm sure if you just talk it out—" Leah said in a faux sweet tone of voice.

"Queen Leah, while we may be a viable match on paper we are certainly not a match in person. No amount of talking will change that."

"Now Ben, there are plenty of royals who've thrived in a contract. Why, my own daughter—"

"Forgive me for interrupting but if I remember correctly, Aurora chose Phillip. True, he was her betrothed but when they first met in the forest, he didn't know that. If your own daughter is allowed to pick her happiness, why can't I? If your true interests are for the kingdom as you constantly tell me and my father, wouldn't it better for my rule if I'm in a match that makes me happy?"

"Of course I and everyone else on the council wish to see you happy Ben. But could you truly be happy with a girl you barely know? You've known Audrey since you were a toddler after all."

"And that may be a thing to consider if it hadn't become incredibly clear to me that Audrey doesn't place much value on my welfare."

"Why whatever do you mean Ben? I know that Audrey cares about you very much and was devastated to learn about the end of the contract."

Yeah I'll bet she was devastated, Mal thought, rolling her eyes. Devastated that she wouldn't get to be Queen. Gods I can't take this anymore. I'm going over there.

"Madam, I'd like to point out that Princess Audrey didn't even know where Prince Ben's office was before Prince Ben gave the directions to myself and the other new students. It was Prince Ahkio and Emir, not Princess Audrey, who were bringing him food and making sure he didn't injure himself by sleeping at his desk. Not only that but Princess Audrey placed her fondness of shopping over Prince Ben's health, making him go with her to shops when he was so tired he was in danger of becoming ill. Does that sound like someone who had her partner's welfare in mind to you?" Mal said bluntly, walking over to them.

Leah and Ben looked over at Mal, Ben giving her a small smile while Leah's eyes narrowed at the sight of Mal.

"Audrey has many duties among the school, she can't be expected to remember the location of an office," Leah sniffed. "If Ben's friends wish to do such things, that's their business. As well, that hardly sounds like Audrey. However, it would benefit you to spread lies about Audrey so your own match with Ben looks more stable now doesn't it?"

"While there is no love between me and Princess Audrey, I would like to point out that she and I have only spoken on the day we met and leaving Chemistry. As for my match with Prince Ben, I don't need to lie to make it more stable." Mal said. "However I have spoken multiple times with Prince Ben's friends regarding Princess Audrey's treatment toward him, and they're not the type to lie. Not about matters like this. As Prince Ben has already pointed out, they aren't a viable match and if my knowledge is correct, Princess Audrey is still first in line for her kingdom's throne. If she really had Prince Ben's best interests at heart, she should be pleased that he is now free to find a more suitable match and be content with her own inheritance as there are many people in the world who would gladly have half the life she has."

"Is that a threat?" Leah asked. "Your mother wasn't content with robbing me of my ability to raise my daughter so now you have to come around and threaten Audrey. Ben had no interest in ending the contract until he met you-you mustn't trust her Ben."

"It's not a threat Madam. It is a fact."

"Queen Leah, Mal has done nothing to make me question my trust in her. In fact the VK's are more decent than some people that I could name here and it's only narrow mindedness that's preventing them from having the life that they should've had at birth."

"Decent? Don't you remember the poisoned apples? The spells! Ben, I'm sure you think you're doing them a favor but the fact remains—they're villains. What's to stop them from destroying Auradon and bringing their parents over here?"

"My point exactly! With an attitude like that you're just giving more reason to want to! They're children! They're teenagers, the same age as me! But for a twist of fate it could have been me born on that Isle. They're not their parents and should be given the chance to rise or fall on their own merits! Anything less is discrimination! There're more children on that Isle who deserve a chance and yes, I said chance because honestly it's ridiculous that we say we're giving them a second chance when they were never given a first one. And after tomorrow, I will give them that chance-whether you approve of it or not! Now I believe we've said everything that needs to be said. I apologize if Audrey is upset right now but the contract's been dissolved and won't be reinstated. Now if you'll kindly excuse me I'm going to go back to enjoying time with my girlfriend as we were doing before we were interrupted. If you'll excuse us Queen Leah. I hope you enjoy the rest of Family Day," Ben said as he and Mal began to walk toward the others.

"Ben! We aren't done here! You humiliated my granddaughter! And for that matter what are you wearing?

"I believe it's called a shirt," Ben calls over his shoulder."Funny enough they've been worn by people for hundreds of years."

"That's not what I meant! Everyone else is wearing formal attire and yet you look like you're about to go to a Tourney game!"

"It's smart and comfortable and you never know, there may be a Tourney game later. For that matter why is it your concern? My parents approve."

"Ben I have to say, that was amazing!" Emir said as Ben and Mal rejoined the group. "I'd have applauded if the situation wasn't so serious."

"It really was Ben," Akiho nodded.

"Guys I didn't do anything-"

"Ben, you stood up to Leah. Not only that but you shut down every single one of her arguments."

"We are so proud of you! We can't even-"

"Guys!" Ben chuckled. "I didn't do anything. Leah made her arguments and I responded with logic. That's it. You know I'm surprised Audrey didn't try to interject herself into the conversation."

"She probably thought Leah was enough."

"At least we don't have to worry about her or Leah bothering us again today."

"Don't jinx it!"

"Yeah Ben, you remember how long Audrey bugged you after the break up. If she saw Leah talking to you, she might get ideas. So hush."

"Okay, okay," Ben chuckled. "I'll just enjoy the day with my girlfriend."

"You do that."

Mal smirked. "I like the sound of that by the way."

Chip chuckled, noticing Belle and Beast walking up. "Hey Benji, I think your folks are about to join the party here."

"I'll um...leave you to it" Mal says softly, the smirk fading.

"You sure?" Ben asked with a small frown.

"Yeah...they're your parents. I'll be fine Ben," Mal said, gently giving him a kiss on the cheek.

She headed off with Jay, Emir and Akiho to find the others. Even if they weren't extremely close, it'd be a good idea to at least check on them.

"Chip, what's mom and dad's problem with Mal?" Ben asked softly, watching Mal walk off. He wasn't blind after all.

"They're just surprised Benji..."

"Why? Because Mal's from the Isle? Can you honestly say they'd be reacting like this if I said oh I don't know Rowyn Fitzherbert was my girlfriend?"

"…Probably not. But then again, it could just be because Mal is Audrey's opposite in every way, shape and form."

"But mom doesn't even like Audrey. She said so before the call to finalize the contract getting dissolved."

"Well then the only thing you can do is ask them Benji. For what it's worth though, as long as you're happy, that's all I care about. I like her."

Ben smiled slightly. "I'm glad Chip. Mal's...she's amazing. I just wish I could get mom and dad to see that too."

"They will. Just give them time."

"How much time though?"

Chip sighed. "Talk to them Benji."

Belle and Beast walked up to them just as Ben nodded. "Ah there he is! Seems like you're always disappearing on us Ben," Beast joked.

"Sorry mom, dad. I was just spending time with Mal," Ben said.

"We saw."

Ben frowned. "Look guys, let's not dance around it okay? What's your problem with Mal?"

"Ben, we don't have a...problem with her per say but she's...she's not who we'd expect you to be dating."

"And why should there be expectations?"

"Ben, it's just a shock...after all she's Maleficent's daughter, we just-"

"Who's daughter she is should have nothing to do with it. It was never brought up that Audrey was Princess Aurora's daughter. Why should Mal have a stigma attached to her?

"Ben, Maleficent is the worst villain in the land. I know you want to see the good but we don't know what these kids have been taught. We just want you to be careful."

Ben fought to not roll his eyes "She knows how to care about people better than some. Besides dad, I'd have thought you of all people would know the importance of not going by first impressions. You had to get mom to love you while covered in fur but a girl who's shown she cares more about me in a month than Audrey did in the entire time we were dating has to prove herself? Mal makes me happy, shouldn't that be the most important thing?"

"Okay, okay," Chip said, getting in the middle. "Why don't we all take this talk someplace where we aren't in the middle of a big open field? This obviously needs some discussing."

"That's not a bad idea," Beast nodded.

"...my office?" Ben offered, glowering slightly.

"That's as good a place as any."

"Let's go then," Ben sighed. "Hopefully Emir hasn't locked me out of it," he muttered as they made their way there. Reaching his office, Ben sighed in relief to find it was unlocked. The four of them filed in, Ben closing the door behind him.

"Right, okay, so back to what we were talking about," Chip sighed. "Belle, Adam...I personally don't see the issue with Mal. Sure, she may be a bit blunt sometimes but she's a nice girl."

"Apparently mom and dad only see who Mal's born to. Never mind the fact that Audrey shares blood with Leah yet they had no issue putting me in a betrothal contract with Audrey!" Ben scoffed.

"Ben, we're sure Mal's a nice girl but when you're a parent you want to make sure your kid is safe," Belle said gently. "If you got hurt..."

"Mom! If Mal wanted to hurt me, she would have done it by now! Not to mention that she wouldn't care that I wasn't happy in the first place. I can't even be love spelled so what's the danger?"

"Villains are good actors Ben, and there're other dangers than just love spells," Beast said, crossing his arms. "Besides, this is the first time you've ever mentioned being unhappy in the betrothal contract since the VKs got off the Isle."

Ben crossed his arms as well and tilted his head as he looked at Belle. "Mom? You never told him?"

Belle sighed. "Adam, I...I told Ben when he was twelve, if he ever wanted out to just tell me and I'd handle it."

"He and Audrey didn't start dating til fifteen-"

"I know Adam. But Leah insisted on finalizing that contract back when the kids were three, remember? We have that photo of Ben and Audrey where Ben's holding a crown...anyway I made sure that Ben had a way out of the contract if he wanted it. We managed just fine without one Adam, why shouldn't our son have the same chance?"

"Belle, of course Ben should've been able to get out of the contract," Beast nodded. "But there's a safety concern with him dating the child of Maleficent. What if this is a ploy by her to get off the Isle?"

Ben sighed. "Dad, Mal is not Maleficent's daughter."

"Ben, the registry clearly states that Mal is Maleficent's daughter," Beast stated. "Now it's possible Maleficent lied but we have no way of verifying that."

"Maybe ask the girl you keep vilifying?! Or check the written registry?"

"Ben, when you're a parent-which will be far, far off in the future-you'll understand our concern. There were plenty of other girls you could have dated if you didn't want to be with Audrey."

"Dad! Mal. Has. Not. Done. Anything! For that matter when was the last time you checked the registry? The written registry?"

"Ben, we just want you to be safe. As for the registry...I'm not entirely sure. Probably about ten years ago. Belle?"

"Not for while I'll admit…"

"Then maybe you guys should check again since our digital registry doesn't seem to be as accurate," Ben said, crossing his arms. "Her full name is Malinda. She's Lady Persephone's daughter. She was born on the Isle yes but she is not Maleficent's. I would know, I checked. So dad it seems your biggest argument is invalid. And what's more it shouldn't matter. Mal is a girl who cares about me and makes me happy."

Belle sighed. "Ben...your happiness is the only thing that matters to me. That and your safety. If you're sure there's nothing to worry about...then I'm happy for you Ben."

"Thank you mom," Ben said softly, giving her a small smile

"You're welcome Ben," Belle said, returning the smile before looking at her husband. "Adam, don't you have something to say to your son?"

"Mom it's fine. I get that he's concerned."

"I know Ben, but the last thing I want is any tension between my two favorite people."

"Oh that's nice," Chip chuckled.

"Adam," Belle said again. "Gods, why are you being so stubborn about this?"

"…I am happy that you're happy Ben." Beast said after a minute.

"Thanks dad," Ben said with a small smile. "But can you guys stop treating Mal like she's about to attack me? If I can tell, she can too."

"I'll try."

"Thank you," Ben said before letting out a soft sigh. "And...I'm sorry about the comment earlier, about not going by first impressions. That...that was below the belt."

Beast sighed. "It may have been harsh but it needed to be said Ben. A king stands up for what he believes in even if it isn't easy. Clearly you believe in your relationship with Mal and for that I'm proud of you son."

"Thanks dad," Ben said softly with a small smile. "It...it means a lot, especially since coronation's tomorrow."

"You keep following your heart Ben," Belle said gently. "You're going to be a great king."

"Thanks Mom. So any other worries that Mal probably shouldn't hear?"

Belle looked over at Beast who shook his head.

"That was our main concern Ben," Belle said gently. "But is there anything you'd like to talk to us about?"

Ben bit his lip. "Dad...are you sure you're not making a mistake stepping down? You can still-"

"Ben, if I thought I was making a mistake I wouldn't be stepping down," Beast said gently. "You'll be fine."

"Dad, I'm...I'm sixteen. You even said you didn't make a good decision until you were forty two! And don't say you married mom at 28, you know what I mean! Dad, what if I can't do this? There are already people not happy with the idea of taking orders from a teenager!"

"Ben, you can do this," Beast said gently. "You care about this kingdom, no one can deny that. And if anyone has an issue with you being sixteen, well then too bad for them."

"But-"

"Ben, relax. And, if you're truly worried about the people being upset, just remember this: we're French. Dealing with upset peoples is what we do," Beast said gently.

Ben couldn't help but give a weak chuckle at that.

"There we go," Beast smiled. " Relax okay? Like I said, I wouldn't be stepping down if I didn't think you were ready."

"Ben? Has this been bothering you for a while?" Belle asked softly.

Ben shrugged and Belle gave a sad smile. "Ben sweetheart...you know you can come to us with any doubts you might have right? You'll be alright. You've got a good head on your shoulders and you know how to use it."

Chip chuckled softly, wrapping an arm over Ben's shoulders. "I told you you'd be fine Benji. You should listen to me more."

"Chip, when don't I listen to you?"

"A year ago."

"When...when didn't I listen to you a year ago? Don't tell me…you're not taking about Audrey?"

Chip snorted. "I told you the minute I met her that you needed to dump her like a hot potato. But did you listen to Chip? No, you suffered in silence for a year!"

"Chip it wasn't-"

"Ben, trust me. If I had to listen to one more call from Emir or Akiho about Audrey dragging you on shopping dates, I was going to come down and ended it for you."

"And how exactly would you-"

"I'd've found a way! Trust me Ben, I spent ten years surviving as a teacup! I'd find a way to end that relationship for you!"

"I know Chip," Ben nodded with a small smile. "But you don't have to worry about that okay? I'm with Mal. Relax."

"I will once I know you'll listen to me from now on!"

"Chip, I do listen to you," Ben promised. "I just couldn't get out of the relation-"

"Weekly. Calls. From. Your. Friends. Benji!"

"Okay okay!"

"Ben, my darling little brother, I don't think you get it. Weekly calls at eight in the morning! On Sundays! Why are your friends up at that hour anyway?"

"It's Emir and Akiho," Ben said as if that explained everything.

"Still, don't they know that 8 am on a Sunday is for sleeping?"

"Well you don't have to worry about that anymore Chip," Ben said. "I doubt Mal would get me up at 8am on a Sunday unless it was an emergency. That being said...something tells me you'll miss the weekly phone calls."

Chip snorted."Like the plague Benji. I'll miss them like the plague."

"Ben?" Belle asked softly, breaking into the conversation.

"Yeah mom?" Ben asked, looking at her.

"If Mal is Lady Persephone's daughter... does that mean that her father is—?"

"Mal hasn't said anything but according to the registry, her father is Lord Hades."

"So wait...why is Mal here as Maleficent's daughter when she's not?" Chip asked.

Ben sighed. "As I said, our digital registry isn't as current as our written one. Our digital registry has her as Maleficent's daughter, our written one states Lady Persephone adopted Mal. Mal doesn't really like to talk about Maleficent or the Isle much. All she said when she arrived was that Maleficent's daughter died and that she didn't want our resources of bringing the kids over to go to waste. I remember she wasn't the most...thrilled to be here when we first met. Actually all the VKs seemed a bit subdued, almost squinting at times…but anyway, yeah Mal's Lord Hades' daughter."

"You know, it kinda makes me wonder why Mal didn't say anything when Leah was confronting you two?" Chip asked.

"Leah didn't really give her the chance," Ben muttered. "Besides, would Leah have believed her? Her name is Mal, that's all the 'proof' Leah would've needed. Not to mention Mal still has the dragon motif on her clothes-but that's her choice. She told me on our way back from our date it's because dragons are immortal and mythical like the Gods. Plus they're awesome. But Leah wouldn't see it like that. All she would see is a tie to Maleficent."

Belle and Beast looked at each other, guilt evident in their eyes. They had made the same judgement call that Ben had described.

"...so should I bother pointing out that we've technically just left Mal out there with Leah still on the warpath?" Chip spoke up.

"Oh!" Ben exclaimed, hurrying out of the office.

Chip chuckled, hurrying after Ben in case backup was needed.

For that matter where is Lady Persephone? Ben thought as he rushed back out to the quad. It is Family Day after all-and Lady Persephone is Mal's mother.

"Queen Leah, may I have a word with you? You seem to have a problem with my daughter."

There she is.

"Why Lady Persephone! Of course, and I beg your pardon but I wasn't aware you had a daughter attending Auradon Prep. After all, we all know about your…husband."

Ben walked up and slipped an arm around Mal's waist.

"Mom...really you don't... just leave it..." Mal whispered, not noticing Ben's arrival.

"Mal, I will not. Not when Queen Leah seems to have no qualms in attacking my daughter," Persephone said, glaring at Leah. "Now as I was saying, exactly what is your problem with Malinda?"

"Lady Persephone, I do beg your pardon but I don't know who you're referring to."

"Let me make it clear for you then. The girl you just went after and verbally attacked? She's my daughter. Not Maleficent's."

"Lady Persephone, it's impossible for that girl to be your daughter. She looks exactly like her mother-the witch who made it so I couldn't raise my own daughter! I know you feel sympathy for the children of the Isle but to claim one as your child—"

"And exactly how long has it been since you've seen Maleficent? I assure you Mal looks like me. Her father's features do show through but my daughter looks nothing like Maleficent. And frankly Queen Leah? You not raising Princess Aurora was your own fault! You could have easily raised your daughter until her sixteenth birthday and then sent her to Fairy Cottage for the day. Regardless, you have no right attacking my daughter. She is an innocent girl who's only 'crime' was to be born on the Isle which she had no control over!"

"Lady Persephone, your 'daughter' if you can even call her that stole Ben from Audrey and ruined their relationship. I know she has you blind to her true nature but if you think-"

"Mal did nothing of the sort! The choice to break the betrothal contract was Prince Ben's. You can't steal a person! If Prince Ben wanted to stay with Princess Audrey, he would have."

Ben nodded. "I agree with Lady Persephone. I'm sorry to interrupt but once again Queen Leah, I won't stand here and watch you verbally abuse my girlfriend. I'm sorry it didn't work out between myself and Audrey but that's between have no say in whether I stayed or broke up with Audrey. I made the choice to end that relationship. Tread very carefully Queen Leah because if you continue like this I will ask that Fairy Godmother have you removed. Forcibly if necessary."

"Bennyboo!" Audrey cried shocked.

"Audrey, we are not together anymore! I put up with the pet names because we were in the contract but I must ask, if there is any semblance of our friendship remaining, that you stop calling me that!" Ben exclaimed. "And I'm sorry but I'm firm on this-if your grandmother continues to verbally abuse Mal and her family, I will have her removed from the premises. Now both of you will kindly quietly leave and enjoy the day and there will be no more abuse thrown towards Mal or Lady Persephone! If you have an issue with this, I would be more than happy to find a guard to escort both of you out."

Mal smiled softly as Leah and Audrey stormed off. "You didn't need to do that Ben. Mom's pretty tough—she could handle Leah on her own."

"I know...but I'm not just to stand here and let her abuse you or your mother," Ben said gently. "Plus I didn't really want your mom to turn Leah into a mint plant. Even if it would have been cool to see."

"It's a good thing you're getting coronated tomorrow. I don't think Leah's going to be the most cooperative with you after that."

"Yeah well...I'll deal with it," Ben said with a small smile.

"You shouldn't have to," Mal said softly. "Leah was going after me."

"And she shouldn't have been."

"Prince Ben's right, Mal," Persephone said gently. "Leah shouldn't've gone after you. If she has concerns, she can come to him or me if she insists."

"Mom, that's not fair to Ben!" Mal exclaimed. "Leah's insanity isn't his responsibility!"

"Well technically…" Ben said slowly.

"No. No technically. The only one responsible for Leah is Leah," Mal told him.

"But this was my idea. Anyone with concerns should come to me."

"Well, technically you're not in charge for another day," Mal said with a small smirk. "Send them to your dad."

"It was nice to see you again, Lady Persephone," Ben said, chuckling slightly from Mal's comment. "I only wish it could have been under better circumstances."

"No apology necessary Prince Ben."

Ben smiled softly before turning to Mal. "Where's Jay? I'm surprised he's not here."

"He's-"

"Right here," Jay said, walking up. "I knew Mal could handle herself though. I come in when she needs back up. That's what first mates do after all."

Ben smiled. "Well I'm sorry I wasn't here when she got started."

"Mom seemed to have it under control..."

"Yeah she did but still, Mal what kind of a boyfriend would I be if I'm not there when people start attacking my girlfriend?"

"Ben, I knew you were off with your parents," Mal said softly. "It wasn't like you were ignoring the situation, you didn't know. It's fine, as I said mom had it under control."

"She sure did," Jay nodded. "Never get Steph angry-especially if you're going after Mal or Hadie. I think that might just sign your death certificate. Leah's just made herself a very powerful enemy."

"Two of them," Ben muttered. "After all, I'll be king tomorrow and as Mal reminded me, Leah's days on the council are numbered."

"Your boyfriend's got claws Mal," Jay smirked.

Ben chuckled. "Well, I am part Beast," he joked causing Mal to giggle. Ben smiled and kissed Mal's cheek.

"I see you're covered here cap'n. I'll be over there then," Jay said, pointing to where Emir was hanging out with his family. Mal nodded and Jay headed off, as Ben pulled Mal closer to him.

"Hey mom? Has dad-?"

"Your father did let me know about your little stunt, dear," Persephone said, nodding her head. "As well the school nurse called me as Prince Ben updated your records to have me as your guardian instead of King Beast and Queen Belle. How's your shoulder?"

"Not bad. How bad was the rant on the fact that I now have a boyfriend?" Mal asked, a little surprised Persephone wasn't fussing over her. Though maybe she didn't want to embarrass her in front of Ben.

"Do you want the short version or the long?" Persephone asked, shaking her head.

"We've got time," Mal told her and Persephone chuckled before starting her impression of her husband.

"'No no no no! She's sixteen! Who does that boy think he is?! My daughter?!Absolutely not! I hope he's ready for the River Styx! Seriously, she's sixteen! I don't care who this boy is, he hurts one hair on her head and I will find a way off this Gods forsaken Isle! My baby girl—!' Never mind the fact you're also my daughter."

"Never mind the fact that I'm sixteen and Ben's the epitome of the perfect gentleman too," Mal chuckled as Ben flushed slightly. "Honestly dad's not going to get better than Ben."

"Yes well sweetheart he's still your father. He has to get used to the idea of you growing up," Persephone smiled slightly. "Remember sixteen to the Gods is rather young."

"I know mom but still! It's not like I'm on the Isle anymore."

"Mal you could be up on Olympus and I have a feeling your father would have the same reaction," Persephone pointed out.

"True," Mal chuckled. "But I mean it's not like I'm dating Harry or anyone dad needs to worry about. It's Ben!"

"He's still your father sweetheart. I think he'd worry about you no matter what."

"At least dad knows so it's not a shock to him when I ride up with Ben tomorrow," Mal sighed. "That is still what happens right?" she asked, looking at Ben.

"Yep, as far as I know nothing's changed on that front."

Mal smiled slightly. She wasn't exactly looking forward to being on a televised event. But...she was looking forward to seeing Ben get coronated. It was a nice image, Ben getting crowned...

"Well Mali, I'll let you go ahead and spend time with Prince Ben," Persephone said gently, bringing Mal back to the present.

"Mom..."

"Wait, Mal, it's Family Day. I'll let you spend time with your mom," Ben said with a smile.

Mal smiled slightly. "Thanks Ben. I'll see you around?"

"Count on it."

Ben gave her a light kiss on the cheek before bowing his head slightly to Persephone.

"My ladies," he said with a smile.

"Prince Ben," Persephone bowed her head in response.

"Your highness," Mal teased.

"What have I told you about that Mal?" Ben teased back as he walked away.

"Hey you called me 'my lady'. Turn about's fair play!"

The Godling and Goddess headed off chuckling. Mal couldn't help but grin as she got to spend the rest of Family Day with her mom. Maybe Auradon truly wasn't so bad.

...Now if her mom would stop fussing over her shoulder, that would be great!