Truth or Fiction

by ginnyrules27

The Fates have had it. They're tired of cutting all the life threads of the denizens of the Isle while Auradon seems to be unaware of the issue. While they're not supposed to reveal the future, that's never stopped them before now has it?

31. Chapter 31

Chapter Thirty One

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

No you guys aren't dreaming, this is a chapter a day after the previous one. I had someone on Ao3 ask if I could publish today and since I knew which chapter this was, I figured I'd be nice and not make you guys wait while I updated Choosing Home and The Last Bridge.

Now on that note…do you guys know how many pages this chapter is in my word doc? Over 40! 42 pages to be precise!

On a happier note though, how is it we're 8 reviews away from 800?! Thank you all so much! :D

Just a reminder: Audrey= WAL Audrey. Regular Audrey=CF Audrey.

ObsidianDarkArrow: Oh I'm so glad you liked the chapter! Lol I think I can make that fight happen!

darkpegasuzz: Glad you liked the chapter!

Tracie Adams: Oh thank you so much! I'm so glad you enjoyed the chapter!

Guest: Oh I like that idea! :D

shortanamx: I think I like the WAL Audrey better too.

Anonymous Reader: I hope you know I've had Be Prepared running through my head since I saw your review! :D

Marcus Emrys: Oh I'm so glad you like the Viewing Audrey! And yeah I'm sorry but FG, you don't imprison people and then also bring them back from the dead!

HufflepuffInDaHealingCoven: You're so welcome! I'm so glad you liked it! Lol I'm a fan of the nickname! :D

midnight rose112358: Oh yeah they're definitely going to be plotting to murder more than just Maleficent, that's for sure!

ScoutGinevera: Of course it's not bad that you want to read the next chapter!

Katt Kiki: It's definitely going to be crazy!

bookdragonss: Hope you enjoy the chapter!

danifan3000: In all honesty I don't remember exactly what was going to happen with Natalie's smirk so it kinda got scrapped.

Urmimala Hazra: I hope you like the chapter!

Katir2911: I'm so glad you're enjoying the story!

Dance Love 2007: Thank you so much!

Guest: I mean…you're not wrong…

TheGirlofManyFloods: I'm so glad you enjoyed the chapter!

JaclynnM: Oh that part's going to be fun to write for sure (the contract part and Mal getting him out of it!)

TR Lara Croft: I'm so glad you liked the chapter!

twilightgirl587: Of course! With Leah unconscious, there's no reason to guard her. Wow that poster sounds awesome! Yes Leah is alive, just passed out from the shock of WAL Audrey saying she abdicated. It did say that but the Charming clan wasn't there at the very beginning. I want Beast's library too! I'm short too and trust me I hate the short jokes, so I'm on Mal's side here.

InuKagLove22: I'm so glad you're excited for the next chapter!

Roxas Itsuka: I'm so glad you're enjoying the addition of WAL Audrey! For CJ, she's got her brother hating her for her whole life just for being born so seeing the woman he claims she killed would be rather startling.

61394: Yeah he's not going to enjoy that!

Guest: Leah—Umbridge wouldn't know how to fight without magic! :D

Snowwhite45: Why do you think I had Esmeralda read that chapter? She'd be the only one who knows what it's like, to have a Frollo try to kill you. Of course Mal would try to call Hadie nicknames that annoy him—that's what siblings do after all! :D Yeah fourteen or so years of being hated by her brother could cause CJ to blame herself…

Gigi18: Oh I'd be surprised if people didn't want to kill Freddy!

AmethystDragon14: Yay! Yes! All hail Lady Malinda! :D And yes, Ben, you are so strong! No one else could have put up with Audrey like you did! Nope, I'm bouncing too! :D

billyandkimfan1994: It'll be interesting to see, that's for sure!

Guest: This chapter was the only reason I brought them in!

Guest: So that previous chapter would be chapter 25 of Choosing Family, this one they're reading is chapter 26.

medical ranger: I'm so glad you're enjoying WAL Audrey!

jessaminego5134: Oh I'm so glad you liked the chapter! Hmm, that's an interesting thought to bring in WAL Ben and Mal…I mean, I could but Ben's a King. And you're not wrong about that but it's the chapter after this one…

CrystalKaouri: I'm not judging, I'm loving the reference! Oh yeah when the contract gets broken, everyone better have a lot of ear plugs! I'm so glad you're enjoying the story!

Ayakitten83: No, he is certainly not getting off the Isle if they all have anything to say about it!

Guest12345: I mean…there are people like that in real life so…

abc123: Oh I like the idea but I'm rather swamped with stories right now. But I do like the idea!

AthenaArtemis25: Oh yeah Demeter's officially bearing the title, there's no doubt about that! And yeah Fairy Godmother was so close but unfortunately for her, she created the barrier.

lilyflower101: Neither can I! :D

Guest: I love that! I hope you know I burst out laughing when I read Mal's section! :D

Guest: Oh that's not a bad nickname actually! :D Thank you for the suggestion! :D

Hope you all like the chapter! Let me know what you think! :D

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Before Esmeralda unfurled her scroll, the eyeball lit up and seemed to pulse for a bit. Everyone braced to see who it was who would be joining but no one came.

"We thought it might be necessary to limit the magic that could be displayed," the Fates' voices came from the eyeball. "The last thing we want is for someone to get hurt."

"Really?" Hades asked, raising an eyebrow.

"…okay we just don't want to deal with injured people because of the wrath of the Gods."

"That makes more sense ladies."

"Should we wake up Leah?" Ariel asked.

"Do you want to?" Jasmine said and then looked at Aurora. "No offense."

Aurora sighed. "Perhaps it would be better if my mother remained passed out for now. Esmeralda, my apologies. Please proceed."

Esmeralda nodded and unfurled her scroll.

Mal and Uma hid behind some of the barrels that were stacked around the docks, lying in wait for Cruella and her son. It was rare but they did like to diversify their targets from time to time.

Evie sighed softly, thankful for the rare moments she got a respite from the barge of smoke bombs.

"You okay?" Emma asked, looking over at her as she heard the sigh.

Evie nodded quickly. "Yeah, I'm okay."

Blueberry's shrieks were always pleasing but sometimes their ears needed a break.

"You could always just not throw the smoke bombs?" Rachel suggested. "Honestly it's been years since the party invite, can't you just let it go?"

"Good question. Let me ask you one," Mal said. "Are kids still on the Isle?"

"What?"

"Are kids still on the Isle?"

"Well yes but—."

"So you've all imprisoned children for their parents' crimes but you want me to let the insult of not being invited to a party go?"

Audrey shook her head. "It is so weird to hear you hating Evie when you're best friends where I'm from."

"Yeah well you also have a singing and dancing Maleficent so the jury's still out on your sanity," Mal told her.

"So let me get this straight. Aunt Steph adopted you?" Uma whispered as she scratched Estelle behind the ears, the loyal Cerberus having followed them from the Underworld.

"Should you really be talking about that out in the open like that?" Akiho asked. "After all, it's supposed to be a secret."

"For the thousandth time, yes," Mal said, rolling her eyes. "Why is that so hard for you to understand?"

"Sorry, it's just…weird. I've spent how many years knowing you as Maleficent's daughter?"

Rapunzel sighed, she could certainly sympathize with that. "I'm sure it was jarring to think about."

"I'm not Maleficent's anything, even if she is my birth giver," Mal muttered. "Mom's more of my mom than Maleficent ever was."

"Maleficent donated the egg, that's it," Mal said firmly.

"Under fifteens present Mal. Not to mention we don't want to think about that," Uma reminded her.

"But you still have to go back to her lair once a week?"

"Just until the registry's updated," Mal said, keeping her voice low as a couple of the warf rats passed by. "But mom said that won't be done until she goes back to Boreadon."

Mal shook her head. "It's like we were hoping the news would get back to the Dragon. Why in the world were we talking about it so openly?"

"You were excited?" Uma offered with a small shrug.

"Possibly," Mal sighed.

Uma nodded and then peered over the barrels. "Looks like we'll have to table this topic for now. Here they come."

"You got the smoke bombs ready?" Mal muttered, grinning wickedly. "Also, do you think we use smoke bombs too often?"

Only when it's important, Audrey thought as she thought about the second viewing, and Ben on a plank with his hands and ankles tied together. Mal, Jay, Carlos and Evie standing against Uma, Harry, and Gil.

"Maybe," Uma muttered, pulling out the smoke bombs. "But they're easy to get ahold of. We don't have to rely on anything from Boreadon to make 'em."

"But…you use resources from the hair salon which does rely on things from Boreadon," Dizzy spoke up.

"True and Ms. Fur Ball hates it when her precious furs are stained."

"Kinda makes me wonder where she's getting all those furs. This is the Isle after all."

"…how many strays or furry creatures does the Isle have?" Emma asked though there was a gnawing feeling of dread in her stomach.

"Not enough to keep Cruella in furs," Jay told her.

"Now Shere Khan on the other hand, with his pawn shop…" Uma mused.

"…a tiger has a pawn shop?" Chip asked.

"Excellent point!" Mal nodded.

Uma grinned wickedly. "Target on lock! Fire in 3…2…1…"

"Fire!" Mal shouted and both of them began throwing the smoke bombs at Cruella and Carlos. The girls laughed as Cruella shrieked amid blue and purple smoke.

"Thanks for that," Carlos muttered under his breath. His mother had spent hours ranting about the damage to her furs before giving him the task of cleaning them.

"Come on! Run! Before she catches us!" Uma shouted through her laughter. Mal laughed and began to run. Unfortunately, she still had a bit of a head rush from the potion so running in a straight line wasn't the easiest task. Add the added difficulty of the smoke obscuring her vision and Mal would be forgiven for bumping into someone.

"Were you okay?" Ben asked, looking over at Mal.

"Fine," Mal said shortly. She really was not in the mood to relive one of the worst days of her life.

"Watch where you're going, witch," the person growled and reached out and grabbed her wrist.

"Let her go," Jay growled.

Mal winced as they gripped it hard—not as hard as Maleficent had done in years past but still hard enough that it would probably bruise.

"Get your hands off me," she growled, trying not to show how much their grip hurt.

"It's not Maleficent is it? That's the only person who'd even try to hurt Mal!" Dizzy squeaked in fear as Jay, Harry, and Uma all narrowed their eyes; the other kids looking at the three of them in concern and never noticing how pale Mal's face had gotten as the memory of that day came flooding back.

"You strut around here like you own the Isle," the person growled and Mal froze as she thought she recognized their voice. "You think you're so great just because you're Maleficent's spawn. You're nothing without your mother's name behind you."

"Excuse me? Who is this person? How do they have any right to say that to Mal?!" Demeter demanded, her eyes flashing.

"Mal never told me about that part," Uma growled.

He leaned forward and whispered into Mal's ear. "And he shall

Everyone stared as Esmeralda trailed off, her eyes widening in horror. She knew those words. They still occasionally haunted her nightmares—she could feel her arms get heavy as if she was trying to keep Quasi from falling into the molten steel, she could smell the smoke in the air and almost feel the water dribble down her chin as Quasimodo tried to nurse her back to health.

She took a deep, shuddering breath, trying to banish the images that had started to form in her head. Trying to prevent the voice that was now ringing in her head from taking hold and trapping her in her memories…The time has come Gypsy, you stand on the brink of the abyss…choose me or the fire…

Shaking her head, she turned her attention back to the scroll, silently reading the information as her eyes narrowed in rage before widening in horror.

"Esmie?" Phoebus asked, looking over at his wife in concern. He hadn't expected for her to drop the scroll and make a beeline to Mal. Mal gave her a look of unease as the older woman stood in front of her, an unreadable look on her face. However, before Mal could say anything, Esmeralda enveloped the Godling into a hug.

"…did not see that coming," Emir said but Harry, Jay, and Uma's eyes widened in understanding. If there was one person who knew what that line meant, it was Esmeralda.

"I am so sorry you had to go through that," Esmeralda said as she released Mal from the hug, her eyes filled with sympathy and understanding.

"Thank you," Mal said, her voice soft as Esmeralda sat back down.

"You want me to take over?" Phoebus whispered to her but Esmeralda shook her head. She would get through this.

smite the wicked and plunge them into the fiery depths. We may not have fire but water would work just as well, don't you think?"

"What—?"

"Don't you even think about it whoever you are!" Poseidon growled.

"Perhaps he would like to spend his life as a tree?!" Demeter offered, her eyes flashing in irritation.

Before Mal could react, the person shoved her off the edge of the dock into the water below. She gasped as her body broke through the water of the cove and Mal flailed about, trying to keep her head above water.

Mal didn't react outwardly but her heart pounded so fast, one might have thought it was trying to escape her chest. She didn't exactly expect to have to relive that day. Unbeknownst to her, her hand had latched onto Ben's wrist; as if she was trying to reassure herself that she was firmly on land and not drowning in the Cove once more.

"What?!"

To everyone's surprise, it had been Zeus who yelled. Well, Zeus and Hercules but everyone had kinda grown used to Herc coming to Mal's defense.

"What?" Zeus asked as he noticed everyone else staring at him in astonishment. "You think I wouldn't—?"

"Zeus, we need your help. Maleficent has stolen a child from Hades," Persephone stated. "You didn't help us then, why would we think you'd care one bit about Mal now?"

"Persephone, is now really the time?" Hera demanded. "Someone just pushed Mal into the Cove!"

"Hera, you don't think I know that? But after years of denying help and ignoring the Isle, you have no right to act offended when we're surprised you're reacting like this!" Persephone shot back as Hades paced back and forth, his hair almost a bright orange as he ranted about what exactly he'd do to the person who pushed Mal.

Her assailant turned and left but Mal wasn't worried about who they were. All she cared about was getting out of the water. She tried desperately to cling to one of the barrels that had fallen into the water but the wet wood made it impossible to keep her grip.

Poseidon glared at the scroll in Esmeralda's hands, his own hands curling into fists. How he wished he'd been there! He could have brought the water up so Mal could get back onto the dock.

"Ben, when you bring more VKs over, that one stays on the Isle," Audrey said, her voice hard.

Ben nodded, too angry and worried about Mal to even be happy that at least one version of Audrey supported the VK initiative. "I'm all for giving the VKs a chance but that's attempted murder!"

Each time her hand slipped, Mal felt her head go under the water and she struggled to keep herself afloat. A splash and a tugging at the collar of her jacket, though, couldn't help but make her smile a little despite the circumstances.

"Good boy," Persephone whispered, her heart clenching in fear. It had been one thing to see Hades carry a sopping wet Mal into the Underworld but to read about it?

Good boy, she thought.

"Uma!" Mal shouted, trying to get her cousin's attention. "Uma!"

"Thank Gods she wasn't alone," Hera sighed in relief. Mal may have been adopted by Persephone, but who knew how long it actually took for the magic to take affect? For the immortality?

Hades could have lost his daughter that day. Persephone could have lost her daughter…

"Oh Gods!" Uma shouted, having doubled back for Mal as she heard the commotion. "Hang in there Mali!"

She knelt down on the docks and held out her hand. "Can you get my hand?"

"No, you're too far!" Mal called back, a small bit of fear in her voice.

Hadie looked over at Mal in shock. Mal…Mal was never afraid. She was always like a rock, calm and cool. But here…she was terrified.

Forgetting that their mother had adopted her, forgetting that she had the Godly powers to protect her, Hadie ran and launched himself at his sister.

"I'm so sorry," he whispered as Mal wrapped one arm around him, the other hand still holding on to Ben's wrist for dear life. "You can call me whatever you want, storm cloud, minty, I just…"

"Shh, shh, it's okay Hadie," Mal whispered, rubbing his back. "I'm okay Storm Cloud."

Hadie smiled slightly. It didn't matter that it had once been an insult, it didn't matter that Mal had hated him upon his birth. All he knew was that there had been a time when Mal might not have been there to call him Storm Cloud.

Uma bit her lip, looking around for the other two members of their crew.

Harry! Jay! Where are you?!

"Uma!" Harry called as he jumped over the railing and ran toward his captain, as if he had heard Uma's frantic thoughts.

"Oh thank Gods," CJ sighed in relief, causing Harry to look at her in surprise.

"What?" The younger girl asked as she saw the look. "You're a strong swimmer and you're taller than Uma, Harry. You can get Mal."

"Was jumping over the railing really necessary though?" Harriet asked.

"Saved time," Harry shrugged.

"What happened? I was manning the counter for the Captain at our fish shop and heard shouting."

"Help!" Mal cried out.

"Oh Gods! Keep your head up Mal, I'm coming!" Harry said, dropping his hook on to the dock.

"You actually dropped it?" Harriet asked, turning to look at her little brother.

"Didn't even think about it," Harry told her. "Mal needed me more and two free hands is a lot better than one free hand and one hook. I didn't want to accidentally hook Mal."

"What's the big deal? Makes sense that he'd drop it," Evan said.

Uma shook her head. "Harry's hook is like Mal's dragons or Jay's stealing. One without the other is almost impossible to picture and Harry never lets go of that hook."

"Uma, get your uncle now!"

Harry dove into the water as Uma ran off, presumably to do just that. Quickly, Harry swam to Mal and wrapped one arm around her torso and the other hand gently grabbed Estelle's collar.

He didn't even hesitate but jumped right in, Ben thought. So far, other than that Freddy guy, the VKs have proven that there's good in them. There's no way they deserve the Isle!

Milah leaned down so that her mouth was next to Harry's ear. "I am so proud of you."

"I got her boy," he said gently. "I got you Mali. Don't worry, we're going to get out of this."

"Harry!" Jay called after what felt like hours but was probably more twenty five minutes of Harry continuously kicking to keep both his and Mal's head afloat.

"Why didn't you just swim to the dock?" Elle asked.

Harry shrugged. "All I thought of was keeping Mal's head above water. I didn't think it'd be so long before someone came."

"What happened?"

"Oh cap'n and I decided to go for a swim," Harry said, rolling his eyes. "Mal fell in, what do you think happened Jay?!"

"She didn't fall in. She was pushed," Harry snarled, his hands curling into fists.

Jay rushed over and knelt down on the docks, his hand outstretched.

"I gotcha Mal, don't worry," Harry said. "Nothing's going to happen to you while I'm around."

"I know Harry," Mal said and gave the pirate a small smile.

"Come on you two. Grab on to me!" Jay called.

"Jay, can you stretch any farther?" Harry shouted. "I don't want to risk her head going under if I move."

"I may have been the tallest out of the four of us but I'm not made of elastic," Jay said, shaking his head. "You were just out of reach Harry."

Jay shook his head. "This is as far as I can reach," he said, biting his lip in worry. Just like Mal, he couldn't swim either so he couldn't jump in to help Harry. He'd just be a hinderance.

"My dad's from Agrabah, you really think he knows how to swim surrounded by nothing but sand?" Jay asked as he saw the looks from Emir, Aziz, and Ashaki. "Not to mention swimming would take up time I could be stealing something."

"Out of the way Jay!" Hades' voice startled the boys and Jay scrambled to get out of the way as the lord of the Underworld rushed over to them. Hades knelt down on the dock, holding his hand out for Mal to take as Harry continued to kick his legs to keep them both above water.

"Oh thank Gods," Melody sighed in relief and Elle sank back.

"She's right there," Chad pointed out. "She clearly survived this."

Lucy shook her head. "They're allowed to be worried for family Chad. Now hush."

"Come 'ere Mali," Hades said softly as Mal grabbed his hand. Hades quickly wrapped his other arm around her chest and lifted her out of the water, holding her to him. This was his side of the Isle, if anyone had an issue with him showing a bit of kindness to Mal they could take it up with him.

"I don't think anyone would take issue in you helping Mal, Lord Hades," Aladdin said, shaking his head.

"Well Maleficent might," Eugene added.

"Yes well she's a few apples short of a full bushel."

Plus if he could take the opportunity to warm up his daughter, he would. It wasn't done with an evil intent so the barrier couldn't block it.

"Thank the Gods for that," Persephone sighed. The last thing she wanted was for Mal to get sick because of this.

"Dad," Mal said softly as Hades set her down on the docks. Harry and Jay quickly got Estelle out of the water before Jay pulled Harry out, Harry shaking himself off the same way Estelle did.

"Hey Ben, Harry dries off the same way you do!" Chip said, teasing the younger boy and trying to bring a bit of levity back to the room after what they'd just read.

"I know, I know," Hades said gently. "You're okay, I've got you. Come on, let's get you home and get you dried off."

Harry went over and stood by Uma. "We should give 'em some privacy," he muttered. "Keep watch and the like. I doubt Mal'll want anyone finding out about this."

That shouldn't have had to be something a child should have to think of. For that matter…where is everyone? In Auradon, there would have been a crowd of adults and other kids trying to help get Mal out of the water, Aziz thought with a small frown.

"Thank you for the offer but I want you three to come with me," Hades said as he stood up, holding Mal to his chest and rubbing her back. "Especially you Hook Jr. We'll need to get you out of those wet clothes before you get sick. Come along."

"Thank you Lord Hades," Milah said, her voice soft as she looked over at the Lord of the Underworld.

"He saved my daughter," Hades stated. "I wasn't going to let him get sick."

Harry stared in shock before Uma elbowed him in the side. "Uh, yes Lord Hades," he said and the three of them began to trot after Hades.

You matter to us Harry, Uma thought. That includes Uncle Hades. He's not going to let you get sick.

"Wait, Estelle! He's still in the—"

"You honestly think we'd forget about him?" Uma asked, raising an eyebrow.

"We got him Mal," Jay said gently as Estelle gave a small yip.

"Yeah Mali, he's crew. You don't abandon your crew," Uma said and Harry nodded. Mal gave a small smile as they made their way back to the Underworld.

Estelle looked over and gave Uma a doggy grin and trotted over to her, giving her a small lick on the hand.

I hope Harriet's fine taking over the counter for me, Harry thought. If not, the Captain won't be happy I abandoned my post. But if it was between manning the counter and saving Mal…Mal wins every time.

Mal shook her head. "Harry, no! You know as well as I do that you should have picked the counter."

"Mal, I mean it," Harry stated even as his arms moved once more as if to protect his ribs. "If I'm picking between you and the counter, you win every time."

Even if it means I wind up with broken ribs, he thought.

"Hades, what's going on?" Persephone asked in worry, her eyes widening as Hades walked into the Underworld with the three kids following him. "What happened? Is she alright?"

"Hades was watching on the Ember," Persephone said. "I'd told him that Mal and Uma went to the docks, even after Mal came to live with us Hades still kept an eye on her when she went out of the Underworld when he could. Without explanation though he dropped the ember and went sprinting out of the Underworld…"

"Did you know? Who it was who pushed me?" Mal asked, looking at her father.

Hades shook his head. "The blue and purple smoke covered up their face, just like it did with you. I didn't even know you'd gone into the Cove until I heard a splash and saw Estelle jump in."

"I'm fine mom," Mal said softly.

"Thanks to Hook Jr over there," Hades added. "Actually thanks to all three of them I should say."

"Why is it you all get called by your first names but I get 'Hook Jr.'?" Harry asked.

"Because you're the only one of us with a last name," Jay told him.

"I didn't do anything though," Uma spoke up.

"You came and got me, that counts in my book."

"And in mine," Persephone nodded.

Uma shrugged. "Harry's the stronger swimmer, he's taller. Besides I'm blood. If you hadn't already been running toward the docks, Uncle Hades, I would have been able to go straight in and not waste any time."

"Not necessarily," Eugene stated. "If Lord Hades hadn't been running for the docks, you would have still needed to explain what was going on."

As soon as they'd been able, Hades and Persephone had added security to the Underworld where no one who wasn't a blood relation could get in without Hades, Persephone's or Mal's approval.

"Let me know if you need any additional security measures," Poseidon told Hades.

"I'd be happy to come up with some suggestions as well," Demeter nodded.

"It still counts Uma," Hades said. "Besides, you could have just stood there watching."

"Why would I do that?" Uma asked. "Mal's my cousin, not to mention the co captain of our crew. Harry and Jay would be useless without us."

"Honestly there are times I wonder if they just share a brain cell," Uma chuckled.

"Hey!"

"She's got a point Harry."

"Jay!"

Ben chuckled slightly and shook his head in amusement, able to do so now that Mal was safe. Those two truly were just like Emir and Akiho. So much so that it was a little scary if he was honest.

Hades gave the three of them a small smile before turning to Persephone. "Steph, can you make some tea for Mal and Harry? And see if you can find him some clothes. I'm going to take Mal to her room so we can get her out of these wet things."

"You didn't even need to ask, Hades," Persephone said. "There was no way I was going to let Harry stand in those wet clothes for longer than he had to!"

"Of course dear," Persephone said before turning to Harry. "I think Virgil's old clothes should fit you just nicely Harry."

"Um, thank you your Ladyship but I'm fine really—"

"Harry, really. You're not seriously going to stay in those sopping wet clothes?" Harriet asked, shaking her head at her brother's stubbornness.

Persephone gave Harry a look, not unlike a look a mother would give a son as Hades carried Mal off. "Harry, you're dripping wet. I'm not having you get sick because you were too stubborn to change your clothes. Come on, we'll get you a change of clothes and then I'll get some tea on. Now come along and we'll get you sorted."

It was Persephone's turn to get a thankful smile from Milah. "Thank you Lady Persephone."

"I'd have want someone to do the same if it was Mal or Hadie in that position," Persephone told her. "It was the right thing to do."

You practically are my mother though Lady Steph, Harry thought. You, and Harriet…and Molly Smee until she joined mom…

Meanwhile, Hades was busy getting Mal situated.

"It's okay sweetheart, you're safe," he said gently as he closed the door to her room. Mal clung to her dad, as if nervous that letting go would result in her winding back into the water even though she was no where near it.

Mal tried to keep her face as unexpressive as possible even as a shudder ran down her spine at the thought of possibly winding back up near water.

"Gods, there's no need to be so drama—."

"If you have more than one braincell, you won't finish that sentence," Uma growled as she glared at Audrey.

"I thought I was going to die," she whispered, her voice shaking.

Jay leaned over to Uma. "You know…is it weird that Mal's still sitting by Prince Beastie Jr.? You'd think after all that happened in this chapter, she'd want to be with us?"

"Mal's not going to want attention on her. She moves, everyone will remember she's here," Uma muttered back to him. "She probably just wants this scroll to be over with."

"Shh, it's okay Mali," Hades said. "You're safe. There's nothing to be afraid of, okay? Let's get you out of this wet jacket and into some dry clothes, and then you can get into bed to keep warm and I'll see if Steph's made your tea."

Uma shook her head. If there was anyone more stubborn than Harry when it came to having someone look after them, it was Mal.

Mal shook her head, crossing her arms. She could handle getting changed but she was not going to take off her jacket.

"Is this really the time to be stubborn?" Macaria asked.

"Malinda, take off the jacket," Hades said, a bit more firmly. Persephone had told him about the name change and he had been one hundred percent for it. "You can put it back on once it's dried," he added, his voice going back to the gentle tone he'd been using. Mal bit her lip but her dad was always good to his word. Plus…the wet leather on her arms did send chills up her spine.

"How'd it feel?" Poseidon asked Hades. "The first time using the full first name?"

"It felt amazing, strangely enough," Hades told him. There was no point or reason to lie about it. "In all honesty I didn't think I'd ever get the chance to do so."

"What about the others?" Mal asked softly as she shed her jacket. "I don't want them to wor…I mean I should go back out there."

"A crew will worry about their captain, or their co-captain," Harry said firmly.

"And friends worry about each other," Akiho added, glancing over at Ben.

"I think that ship's sailed sweetheart," Hades said gently with a soft smile on his face. "Mal you don't have to put on a brave face. Not with them and not with me or your mom. Besides if your minions are anything like I think they are, they'll be worrying about you whether you want them to or not. In fact, I'd be willing to bet that the minute Harry's dry, the three of them will be outside your door wanting to climb on the bed with you."

"We're not minions!" Harry, Jay, and Uma exclaimed.

"Harry shouldn't have come out," Mal said softly. "Hook's not going to be happy Harry abandoned his post at the shop—hopefully Harriet covered for him."

"Of course I covered for him," Harriet stated. That didn't mean anything to the Captain though, she thought as she realized exactly why Harry's arms kept wrapping around his ribs.

"Mal, if Harry hadn't done what he did there's a very high chance you wouldn't be here right now unless Uma managed to hold you up in the water. Truthfully I'd rather Harry get in trouble with his dad than you not be here," Hades said.

Nope, nope! While I still maintain I want Mal here, you don't realize what you might have inflicted on Harry, past-me, Hades thought. He didn't know how it happened but years of having the boys in the Underworld all the time had made it so Hades couldn't help but think of the pirate as another son.

"I only get one daughter and I'm rather fond of her. So let's get you into some dry clothes and then you're getting into that bed young lady. No complaints."

No matter where you are, the parental lectures for raising a daughter remain the same. Just with little tweaks here and there, Kit thought as memories trying to get a sick Lucy or injured Kitty to stay in bed flashed through his mind.

"Dad?" Mal said as Hades pulled some dry clothes out for her. "Thanks…for being at the docks I mean. I know we're still keeping it a secret but I…it was nice having you there."

"The only place a parent wants to be is by their child's side, being able to help them when they need it," Belle said with a small nod.

"Anytime Mali. I told you, I'll always watch over you. No matter what, it doesn't matter that you're living here now or that Steph's adopted you. I'm still going to keep an eye out for you. Now, would you like a moment alone so you can change or would you like some help?"

Mal braced for the cooing, she had almost expected it. But it didn't come much to her relief. She could almost handle the cooing around Evie. Evie and two Audreys? Even if one Audrey didn't seem to have the stick up her butt? Yeah no. Not happening.

Mal bit her lip as she thought it over. She was nine after all—she shouldn't need her father's help to get changed.

"Or would you rather I send your mom in?" Hades asked softly.

Despite the terror of the previous scene, Demeter couldn't help but smile a little as Hades referred to Persephone as Mal's mother.

Mal shook her head. Steph…mom would just fuss and worry. "Can I have the moment alone?"

"Of course I would fuss!" Persephone said, nodding slightly even as she smiled at hearing Mal call her mom once more. She never tired of it.

"Of course, call if you need anything," Hades said, kissing her on the forehead and handing her the clothes before heading out the door.

"Thanks dad," Mal said softly, watching him leave and closing the door behind him for her privacy. She sighed and shivered slightly as she pulled off her wet top.

I'm going to owe Harry a big thank you, Mal thought as she got changed. Though what can I do that equals basically saving my life while risking his father's wrath?

You don't have to do anything Mal. Besides, you're more important in the scheme of things. I'd be a pretty lousy crew member if I just let my co-captain drown, Harry thought with a small frown.

If Hook does anything to Harry because he left the counter to save me, he'll regret it for the rest of his life! I'll be throwing more than smoke bombs at the Captain if that's the case.

"And you won't be alone!" Uma vowed.

"You got that right!" Jay nodded.

Ben glanced at Emir and Akiho, each of them glancing at Harry in concern. They knew Maleficent hadn't been a fit mother but…that was Maleficent. Surely Hook…he didn't…

Though if Hook wanted to keep the deal he had with Hades, he wouldn't do anything to Harry. After all, Harry just garnered favor with Hades of all people.

Hmm, that's an idea. After all, Hook isn't the only one who can provide fish and actually with Leah removed from power, there could be better food for the Isle, Hades thought.

That was a big thing on the Isle. Even if they were keeping her relationship to Hades a secret, it didn't change the fact that Harry, Jay and Uma had just earned massive points with Hades. The only one who probably would have to keep it a secret though would be Jay.

"Eh, I had enough clout on the Isle anyway," Jay shrugged. "Between dad working with the Dragon and being with you guys, I was like Mal. Ruling the Isle."

And we're sure they're not dating? Ben thought with a small frown.

"Thank you Harry," Mal whispered as she quickly finished getting dressed as to not worry her father any more than she already had and left her room to go join the others.

"Don't mention it Mal," Harry whispered back. "I'd do it again."

"Ah ba ba ba! Young lady, where do you think you're going?"

"To join the others?"

"Are you telling her or asking her?" Rowyn asked, a small smile pulling at her lips now that Mal was safe.

"They can come to you! You are getting under those covers and drinking a cup of tea!"

"Mom!" Mal exclaimed as Persephone led Mal back to the bed. "I'm fine!"

"Thank you for the reminder that I need to ban that word from your vocabulary," Persephone muttered.

"…how would you do that?" Chip asked.

"No complaining, in you get!" Persephone said, tucking her in pointedly.

"Mom! Seriously, I'm fine!"

"Yes, you will be. Once you have some tea. I have the water on right now."

"You don't have to fuss like—"

"Have you not met your grandmother? Persephone comes by it honestly and really, she's got the right to fuss," Hades stated.

"Was that a compliment?" Demeter muttered to Poseidon.

"Take it as one," Poseidon muttered back. After all, Hades could have referred to Demeter as merely 'Persephone's mother' rather than Mal's grandmother.

"I almost lost my daughter today Mal. I will fuss however I please!" Persephone told her. "Now, young lady, you will be staying in this bed until the tea arrives!"

"We could take lessons from her in getting Ben to sleep in his own bed," Emir muttered to Akiho.

"Hell, I'd settle for having him eat something that's not a sandwich," Akiho muttered back.

"I'd listen to her Mal," Uma said as she poked her head through the door.

"Hey Uma," Mal said with a small smile.

"Can we come in?"

Mal nodded. "How's Harry?"

Harry shook his head. "She almost drowned yet she'd worried about me."

"Ask him yourself," Uma smirked as Harry, now wearing a pair of black jeans and a blue shirt that was slightly too big for him, and Jay followed her in.

"I had wondered where you got those clothes from," Harriet told her brother.

"Now you know," Harry said, his gruff tone rather startling. Even if Harriet knew what might be coming, her brother had never spoken to her like that.

"Harry…?"

Harry shook his head. "I…I don't want all these Boreadon people finding out," he whispered.

Harriet nodded. She would have held him close but their mom was busy doing that.

"Shouldn't I be the one asking that question to you Mal?" Harry asked. "You're the one who almost drowned."

"You're the one who spent who knows how long keeping my head above water Harry," Mal told him. "How are your legs not rubber right now?"

"It might have been adrenaline," Lil' Shang suggested.

That…that might explain why I had trouble running away later that night, Harry thought, lightly chewing on his lip.

"Swimming lessons since I was practically six months old," Harry chuckled as they all clambered up on the bed, Estelle joining them.

"I don't think that's possible unless you're secretly a mermaid," Melody spoke up.

"I don't think that's actually possible," Jay said with a chuckle.

"Take a look at who the Captain is. I was practically born in the water," Harry shook his head.

Persephone smiled slightly at the sight. "I'll go check on your tea," she said and left the room. Mal sighed. Now that the excitement was over, she realized that someone had pushed her into that water. She hadn't fallen. She hadn't tripped. That was on purpose.

A dark look crossed against Zeus' face. "Whoever did it will pay. I can assure you of that."

"For once we agree on something brother," Hades nodded, his hair lighting up once more at the thought of someone trying to harm his daughter.

"Someone pushed me in…" she said softly.

"What?" Uma asked, the lighthearted mood of the room growing somber.

"Who was it Mal? They now have an appointment with my hook—"

"And fists—"

"And swords and other sharp objects—"

"—before they get shoved in themselves!" Harry growled, ignoring the interjections from Jay and Uma.

Akiho nodded. "I've got a giant snowman who'd love to teach them a thing or two about messing with Mal!"

Don't lose your temper, don't go Beast, Ben thought. You've got a girlfriend, an easily made jealous girlfriend. Even though the thought of someone harming Mal…

"Guys, I have my suspicions but I can't prove anything," Mal said softly. "The smoke covered their face."

"Mal, suspicions are good enough! No one tries to murder my cousin and get away with it!" Uma growled as she hopped off the bed and began to pace.

Gods this is too strange, Audrey thought. Considering the fact that my Mal and Uma only just became friends and there was a viewing where they fought each other as a dragon and a giant octopus woman. It's nice though.

"Mal, the other gangs have gotten into fights on less than suspicions, you know that!" Jay said. "Who was it? When your dad finds out, he'll feed them to the Furies! After we're done with them of course!"

"Oh I won't just feed them to the Furies Jay," Hades shook his head. "I'll find my Cerberus and gift him a new chew toy!"

"But…you're on the Isle and Hercules takes care of Cerberus…"

"Hush. Let a God have his fantasies."

Mal smiled softly at her crew's determination. "Guys really, you don't have to make a big deal out of it."

"You almost died Mal!" Macaria exclaimed. "I'd be amazed if they didn't make a bigger deal over it being on purpose!"

"Beggin' your pardon, co-cap'n, but we do. No one messes with a member of our crew and gets away with it," Harry told her.

"Mal, if you insist on not telling us, we can just ask Estelle. There's no way he didn't see 'em or at least smell 'em," Uma said, crossing her arms.

"I…I could ask him?" Carlos spoke up, his eyes wide with fear but there was a determined note to his voice.

"But you're terrified of dogs DeVil," Mal said with a slight frown.

"Yeah," Carlos nodded. "But you guys gave me and Gil protection from the other gangs, make sure we get food, and a whole bunch of other stuff. If…if you ever want it confirmed, I…I can suck it up for a minute."

Mal had to admit, she was oddly touched by that. Everyone on the Isle knew about DeVil's cynophobia. For him to offer…wait did he just say he could ask Estelle?

"Back up. Explain please?"

"I'm Cruella DeVil's son," Carlos said with a slight shrug. "Of course I can speak dog."

"That…that in no way explains that," Uma said, shaking her head.

Audrey chuckled. "In my timeline, we just used a truth gummy and we could all speak to dogs. Well it was just one dog. Carlos' dog in fact."

"I have a what?!"

Mal sighed. There was no way her crew would drop it. "I…I think it was Freddy boy," she said softly. "You know how much he hates me and he's probably the only one that would have the guts—"

"He's dead! I don't care if I have to go to the Isle myself and smite him there!" Demeter exclaimed. "I hope he enjoys life as a tree!"

"Sorry Demeter but you're going to have to beat me to him!" Poseidon growled. "Let's see if this Freddy can swim!"

Phoebus shook his head. "While I normally wouldn't say this, with Freddy being a child in the scroll, it's clear that he has grown up to be just like his father considering Freddy seems to be three years older than Mal. In that case, I'd like to request that Esmeralda and I handle it. We have a connection with the Frollo family after all."

"Why not all of you?" Uma suggested. "After me, Harry, and Jay of course."

"I like the way your granddaughter thinks, Poseidon," Zeus stated.

Mal rolled her eyes. "Oh honestly. I clearly survived so there's no reason to try to kill Freddy. He's trapped on the Isle anyway and I'm in Auradon."

"That's it! He's dead!" Uma growled. "Harry, Jay, we're going to make sure Freddy boy sees his precious Hellfire! Estelle, stay with Mal. We'll be back!"

"Guys, wait! You'll start a gang war over this, it could tear our lives apart!" Mal exclaimed as the boys got up, dark looks on their faces.

"Our crew outnumbered theirs Mal. If it came to a gang war, we'd decimate them," Jay stated.

"Think about it! Killing Freddy might feel good until Freddy's angels come after us! I'm not risking Hadie over this! And Celia, Uma think about it! You kill Freddy and Celia will have a target on her back! You really want her mixed up in this?"

I'm not risking Hadie over this, Hadie thought. She…she cared more about me than getting her revenge. Thank you Mali.

It'll take more than Freddy Frollo to get me to put you in harm's way Storm Cloud, Mal thought to him.

"Mal, Celia and Hadie are under our protection. What good does that do if if we don't go after someone who tried to kill a member of our crew?" Uma asked.

"Besides if Freddy did get his filthy paws on my sister, Freddie and I would kick his butt from the Isle to Boreadon," Uma stated and Celia gave her a small smile.

"Girls, I've got an idea that might prevent a gang war," Harry chimed in. "Go to Lord Hades. Think about it. Most of the Isle knows that Mal is his errand rat and it's pretty well known that he doesn't take well to threats to his his minions and this wasn't just a threat, this was an attempt at murder…"

"I like the way this boy thinks," Hera said with a rather feral grin. "I think we should go and take a visit to the Isle don't you?"

"Oh yes," Demeter nodded. "Remind young Mr. Frollo exactly how big of a mistake he made."

"I almost feel bad for Freddy. Almost," Harriet stated.

Mal frowned. "I don't want my dad being a murderer Harry. If they ever let people off the Isle, that might keep dad here."

"I'm supposed to worry about you Mal. Not the other way around," Hades said as his voice grew dark at the thought of someone purposefully harming his daughter.

"Mal! We can not just let him get away with it! He has to pay! You could have died! What's it going to look like if we do nothing?!"

"I'll humiliate him, no I'll debilitate him! No wait, better, I'll eliminate him! No, I'll—!"

"Harry!" Uma barked. "We get it."

"Harry, we don't know it was him!" Mal exclaimed even if she knew in her heart that it was Freddy. With the line that was said before she was pushed, how could it not be?

"Isaiah 11:4," Phoebus stated, his voice hard yet soft at the same time. "If it really is Frollo's son, I'm not surprised. That one was his father's favorite line."

"You three are asking us to disrupt our lives and risk a gang war like no one has ever seen because of something I suspect. Only the four of us know my suspicions and wouldn't it be better revenge if Freddy just saw me walking around like nothing happened?"

"Living well is the best revenge," Ben said even as his fists clenched, his nails digging into his skin.

"Ben, we're not taking advice from a sixteenth century poet today," Chip told him. "If I ever see this Freddy guy, I'll make sure he regrets ever looking at Mal!"

The other three looked at each other in doubt, causing Mal to groan in frustration.

"Guys, we have a good life here under the circumstances! We have food, security, places to sleep! We practically rule the Isle with the Warf Rats and you want to threaten that for mere suspicions! I nearly died today, I don't want any of us to actually die—and you know the angels would do it too if we killed their leader. Eye for an eye."

"An eye for an eye makes the whole world go blind, though," Belle said with a small sigh.

"And what exactly do you call putting us all on an Island and raising some from the dead because death is too good for villains?" Hades asked.

"Mal, he still needs to pay! If it was him and we don't do anything—"

"Harry, I hate to say it but Mal has a point," Uma spoke up.

"Thank you!" Mal exclaimed, shaking her head in exasperation. "Finally someone sees my point!"

Harry and Jay couldn't help but stare at her in shock.

"What? I still think Freddy needs to pay but I'm not risking Celia getting caught up in a gang war," Uma said.

"I can take care of myself!" Celia stated.

"Not at three, you couldn't," Uma told her. "And I wasn't going to let you get hurt!"

"Can we at least hold him under water for a while? See how he likes it!" Harry muttered.

"If you can catch him, be my guest Harry," Uma told him. "Just don't let him see you or his angels might go after Harriet and CJ next."

"I'd like to see 'em try," Harriet snarled, glaring at the scroll. "Our crew could take 'em without a sweat!"

"Watch me," Harry nodded.

"He won't be alone either," Jay growled.

"Oh if you guys fight against Freddy, I want in of course," Mal said with a smirk. "I just don't want you killing him."

Mal shook her head. "Guys, honestly. It's not like Freddy knew I couldn't swim. It's not as if he tied me to a pyre and then lit it on fire to burn like his dad did with Esmeralda."

Mal winced slightly. "Sorry about that. I—."

"It's okay Mal. I'm sure you didn't expect your thoughts and private conversations to be transcribed on a scroll for people to read," Esmeralda said.

"Doesn't matter. He still caused you harm! And a slight against you is a slight against the crew!" Jay said firmly.

"And even if it wasn't a slight against the crew, it was still a slight against you," Uma stated.

"I'm going to reiterate that we don't know it was him…but since I know there's no talking you out of this, as long as you don't kill him, have at it."

"Gladly," Jay and Harry grinned wickedly.

"Jay, you're going to be in Auradon with me," Mal reminded him.

"…drat."

"With pleasure."

"You two are insane, I hope you know this," Mal chuckled as she shook her head.

"Mal, you'd do the same for any of us. What makes you think we wouldn't do it for you?"

"Because I don't want you guys getting hurt because of me!"

"Tough cookies," Harry said, crossing his arms. Mal, you're like a third sister to me. There's no way I'm letting Freddy near you!

"He's right Mal. We're 'ruthless yet loyal' so let us be loyal to you the way you'd be loyal to us."

Mal couldn't help but give them a small smile as she heard that.

Ariel let out a soft sight, causing Eric to look over at her.

"You okay?"

"They're nine Eric. Nine years old and they need to make declarations of loyalty like that. They shouldn't be worried about that. Just like they shouldn't have to worry about where their next meal is coming from. And…and it's our fault."

"Thanks guys," Mal said softly. "Now come back here."

Jay and Harry looked at each other before going back to Mal. She'd be alright, they'd make sure of it.

Something tells me they're not the only ones, Audrey thought with a small smile as she looked over at Ben. If he hasn't broken up with this timeline's me, he'll do it soon. If he's anything like my timeline's Ben, he won't stop until he knows Mal is safe.

Mal's eyes started to drift closed, finally warmed up enough to sleep. She knew her mom was on her way with some tea but her body couldn't help it.

Harry, Jay and Uma smiled as each of them curled up by Mal.

She felt safe enough to sleep, to put herself in the most vulnerable position she could, Aurora thought with a small smile. At least they had that, though kids shouldn't have to feel like they'd be attacked if they let their guard down.

"You can sleep Mali. You're safe now," Uma said softly. "We'll wake you up when Aunt Steph comes in with your tea."

"Good luck with that," Hadie spoke up. "Mal sleeps like the dead! She only wakes up when she wants to."

"Harry's tea too," Mal said softly as her eyes closed and she leaned against Jay.

"We gotcha, Mal," Jay said softly.

"Go on and sleep cap'n," Harry added, ignoring the comment about Steph bringing in tea for him too.

"Of course you did," Mal said, shaking her head in fond exasperation. "Stubborn pirate."

"Okay," Mal whispered and they watched as Mal slowly but finally drifted off to sleep.

The other three shared a look.

"So…when does Freddy boy die?" Harry whispered.

"Harry!" Mal exclaimed.

"Can we help?" Emir and Akiho asked as they looked over at Jay and Harry.

"The more the merrier boys," Harry smirked.

"Harry, Mal said no killing," Uma sighed.

"Oh come on—she almost died Uma!"

"Almost. I didn't," Mal stated. "And therefore ignoring my orders is not the way to go!"

"I know that. Still, she said no killing."

"However, that doesn't mean we can't maim," Jay pointed out.

"Exactly Jay. After all, you know you'd be surprised at what you can live through," Uma said with a wicked grin.

"May I offer some assistance or even just provide some ideas?" Emma spoke up.

"Oh don't think I'm not helping too!" Lonnie exclaimed.

"Of course!" Uma nodded and grinned. "Freddy won't know what hit him!"

Jay smirked. "Excellent. As long as we don't make Freddy boy see his precious hellfire, I don't think Mal'll have a problem."

"Would you? Have a problem that is?" Hadie asked, looking at Mal.

Mal shrugged. "The guy's a world class creep who deserves it. Doesn't mean he deserves to die. But no, I wouldn't have a problem with those three maiming him."

"We'll make him wish he was there though," Harry whispered.

"Of course we will. After all, we're 'ruthless yet loyal'…I think it's time we were ruthless," Uma smirked.

"When have we ever been anything but ruthless when it comes to the Angels?" Harry asked.

"Count on it," the boys agreed with matching smirks.

"Though I think we'll have to do it when Jay's not acting as 'pillow'," Uma said, the smirk still on her face. Jay chuckled softly.

"I've no problem being pillow," Jay shrugged. "Of course Mal and Uma are the only ones I'll be pillow for."

"I'm fine being pillow if it means Mal sleeps," he said softly. "She needs it."

"She does," Harry and Uma nodded.

"I didn't need it," Mal muttered.

"The fact that you fell asleep says otherwise," Jay told her.

Jay couldn't help but give a sad smile. "She does so much for the crew…did she really think we were going to let this slide?"

"I was hoping," Mal muttered. The last thing I want is for you three getting hurt.

"I don't think Mal values herself as much as she values the crew," Uma said softly.

"And I think we can all blame Maleficent for that," Harry added.

"That's clear as glass," Jay sighed.

Hades looked over at his daughter, hoping that the ten years of living with him and Persephone had countered the six years of living with Maleficent. One could only hope though.

"Well we just have to show Mal that she's important too," Uma said and they all nodded. Harry and Uma repositioned themselves so they were curled up closer to Mal and Jay, just like in the clubhouse. Jay couldn't help but smile at the sight.

Jay smiled a little as he thought back to it. Being the oldest of the four of them, he always tried to protect the others even though Mal and Uma were Godlings compared to him being a mere moral. But it was always great to see the other three curled up next to him, safe and protected.

"Nobody messes with us," he said softly.

"They'll regret it if they do," Harry muttered, as his eyes began to close. He tried to fight it though, he needed to go and relieve Harriet from the counter before the Captain found out. If he hadn't already.

CJ subtly rolled her eyes. Honestly I know the Captain's horrible but you saved Mal's life. He won't fault you for that Harry.

"Sleep Harry. You've got to be worn out mate. You were in the water holding Mal up for what? Twenty minutes?"

"Twenty five but who's counting?" Harry muttered.

"You are apparently," Akiho told him.

"My point exactly," Jay said. "Sleep."

Harry rolled his eyes but couldn't help it as his eyes slowly closed and he began to sleep as well.

"So stubborn," Harriet shook her head as she gave her little brother a small smile.

Uma gave a sad smile as she looked at the sight.

"What are we going to do with those two?" Jay asked softly.

"Be there for them to fall back on," Uma said.

"You don't have to—."

"Hush," Uma told Harry. "You'd be there for me, so I'm going to be there for you."

"Always. We have each other's backs."

"And we always will," Uma said softly. "It'd take an act of Boreadon to break us up."

"You weren't wrong there cap'n," Harry said with a small sigh. Mal and Jay were invited off the Isle…he was never going to see his best friends again the way his luck was.

"Like that'll ever happen. Beastie's pretty set in his ways."

"You're telling me? We're all stuck on this Isle because Beastie's stuck in his ways," Uma sighed.

Belle gently rested a hand on Beast's shoulder. "She does have a point dear. Remember how you reacted when Ben suggested bringing the kids off the Isle?"

"You know I heard a rumor that DeVil built a device that managed to blow a small hole in the barrier?" Jay said. "He was trying to get better TV channels than the two we get."

"I'm sorry what? There's a hole in the barrier?!"

"Dad, what does it matter?" Ben asked. "There's been a hole in the barrier for years and yet no one's tried to escape. Doesn't that say something about the people we put on the Isle compared to say some of the people in this room?"

"You're referring to Leah aren't you?" Mal asked.

Ben shrugged as everyone looked over at the still unconscious Queen of Auroria.

Audrey shook her head. "Honestly. There's a time and place for dramatics and I don't think this is one of them."

"But it's been so peaceful," Emir pointed out.

"Really?"

"Yeah. The device broke but now we can at least watch something other than Boreadon news. DeVil freaked out at one of the shows—it had a dog on it."

Carlos winced and braced himself for the laughter that was sure to come. But it didn't. Instead almost all of the AKs looked at him in concern—the only one who even looked amused with their Audrey.

"Ben help me! This thing is a killer. He's going to chase me down and rip out my throat! This is a vicious, rabid, pack animal." Audrey couldn't help but think with a small frown, knowing exactly where Carlos would get his fear of dogs. Cruella.

"Dad, surely it can't hurt to have some entertainment broadcasted to the Isle?" Ben asked. "They say necessity is the mother of invention after all so clearly there is a need for more channels."

Uma snorted in amusement.

"Maybe we should bring him in or at least put him under our protection. He's still far too timid for a seven year old." Jay said.

Gee thanks Jay, Carlos thought with a small frown. You'd be timid too if you had to deal with my mother.

"I'll talk it over with Mal when she wakes up," Uma said. "Still, DeVil's brains should be with us. If Freddy boy got ahold of him…"

He wouldn't, Carlos thought. I don't know why he's got Strat in his gang but he wouldn't bring another guy in. Not when he's got all those girls all to himself.

"Uma, it'll be fine," Jay said. "DeVil's his mom's servant anyway."

More like slave, Carlos thought with a small shudder at the thought of scraping his mother's bunions.

"I know Jay. I just don't like the idea of Freddy boy getting access to DeVil's brains. As smart as he seems to be becoming…Freddy could do a lot. I'll talk to Mal as soon as possible about bringing DeVil in, or at least offering him protection. I don't want a Freddy boy with access to Devil."

"And he wouldn't have that," Carlos said, speaking up with more conviction than he ever had before and startling some of the others. "I may be timid but I have enough self respect to never sign up with Frollo of all kids. I'd pair up with the Casters before I did that!"

Jay nodded.

"But for right now, let's let her sleep."

Estelle stared at the four kids from the end of the bed.

"Come 'ere Estelle," Uma said softly, patting the spot next to her. Estelle gave a doggy grin and carefully scrambled next to her.

"Good boy," Mal said with a smile, still holding Hadie close to her while holding onto Ben's wrist with her other hand. Estelle gave her a doggy grin and hopped up on the sofa next to her.

"Um…" Ben said as he realized he had a Cerberus in his lap.

"You really complaining?" Chip asked with a small chuckle.

"Good boy," Uma said softly as she pet Estelle. "You did good today."

Estelle gave a small yip and rested his heads on Uma's leg.

"You did what I couldn't do," Uma whispered as she continued to pet him.

"But you ran and got help," Elle told her. "Not to mention you didn't leave until Harry was there. It could have been a lot worse if you hadn't been there."

"You ran and got your uncle," Jay said softly, hearing the whisper. "You did more than I did, just kneeling there with my arm outstretched."

Uma shrugged.

Mal sighed and looked over at the two of them. "It's not a competition. Besides Jay, if dad hadn't been able to come, I know you would have thought of something to help pull us to the docks."

"Plus you can swim," Jay added. "You could have jumped in if Harry needed help."

"And I didn't…"

"At least you got help," Jay sighed and Estelle gave a small lick to Uma's hand causing her to smile slightly.

"But you were there if something happened," Akiho pointed out. "Plus what if someone found them in the water like that? Hard to fight when treading water."

"Good boy," Uma said softly and Estelle wagged his tail lightly. Uma and Jay smiled at Estelle, he was a great part of the crew. You honestly couldn't ask for a better crew mate. He fit right in and was protective of everyone.

"He's like if Mal was a Cerberus," Harry said, lightly teasing his friend.

"I'm taking that as a compliment," Mal said with a grin.

"Estelle's a good buddy," Jay said softly with a small grin.

"He is," Uma nodded causing Estelle to wag his tail again. They laid there quietly until Persephone and Hades walked in.

"Think they'd be up for some tea?" Persephone asked softly.

"Considering you broke into your Boreadon stash, I'd be a fool not to be," Mal stated.

"How did you—?"

"Mom, the tea bags you bring back with you are always stronger than the tea bags on the barge," Mal told her. "I like the tea stronger."

"If you can wake 'em Aunt Steph," Uma said. "Harry spent twenty five minutes keeping Mal afloat, that'd wear anyone out. And you and I both know Mali sleeps like the dead. A herd of elephants could pass by this room and she wouldn't even turn over."

"Is it strange that I want to see if she could sleep through a herd of elephants marching past her room?" Emir muttered to Akiho.

"Where would you get a herd of elephants?" Akiho muttered back.

"Well the tea'll help plus I've got some pain medicine here for Harry's legs," Persephone said. "They can go back to sleep after they have it."

"I don't need to be coddled, Lady Steph," Harry shook his head.

Gently shaking Mal's shoulder, Persephone said, "Mal, honey? Can you wake up and have some tea for me?"

"Okay, teach me your ways Aunt Steph," Uma said as Mal woke up.

"Or and just hear me out here…she wasn't really sleeping?" Rose suggested.

"It's a mother's touch, dear," Persephone said with a small smile.

"Mmm? Mom?" Mal groaned, sleep still in her voice.

"Ah the 'just woken up' grogginess," Lucy nodded. "Kat knows it well."

"Who?" Mal asked.

Kitty chuckled and raised her hand. "Me. It's a nickname based on my full first name."

"Tea time," Persephone said. "You can go back to sleep after you have some."

Mal nodded and smiled slightly as she saw Harry curled up next to her. "Harry'll need some tea too."

"Really Mal?" Harry asked. "I didn't need tea."

"What else were you going to use to wash the pain medicine down with?" Mal asked him, raising an eyebrow.

"Already on it," Hades said. "But he'll need to be woken up first."

Mal nodded and poked Harry in the side.

"You could be more gentle," Emma said.

Mal shrugged. "Why? It's how we wake up people on our ship so why would I change my ways?"

"Sides, Harry would probably accuse us of coddling him if we did it any differently," Uma said with a small snort.

"I'm up!" Harry said instantly.

"Good," Mal said. "Cause tea's here. And you're taking something for your legs. No questions."

"Thank you Mal," Harriet said, giving her brother a look. "Nice to know someone else is looking out for you while I'm not there."

"Mal, what if someone else needs it?"

"I thought Mal said no questions?" Melody asked.

"Mom can pick up more when she goes back to Boreadon," Mal said. "Your legs have to be killing you right now."

Chip nodded. "Lactic acid buildup is no joke after all. But with all the sparring you guys do, I'd think you have your leg muscles built up."

Harry sighed. "Why can I never say no to you or Uma?"

"Because you'd be lost without us," Mal chuckled, wrapping her arms around him in a hug. "Thank you," she whispered, the humor leaving her voice.

"You never need to thank me," Harry told her.

"No thanks needed Mal," Harry whispered back. "I'd do it again in a heartbeat."

You shouldn't have to though, Ben thought. This is going to sound naive but I had no idea how bad the Isle had truly become. I should though. I'm going to be King in a month—I should know this.

"In fact, I think I owe all three of you a thank you," Mal said as she pulled back.

"She's not the only one," Hades spoke up as Persephone handed Mal and Harry a mug of tea and handed Harry some pain tablets.

"Oh thank Gods! Someone else who uses the right way to drink tea!" Chip exclaimed.

Beast shook his head. "He claims it's strange drinking out of a tea cup," he explained.

"You spend ten years existing as one and then tell me it's not weird to drink out of it!"

"You don't need to thank us Uncle Hades," Uma said as Harry eyed the pain pills. "Mal would have done the same for any of us."

"She protects us, we protect her," Jay nodded.

"Like I told Mal, sir, I'd do it again in a heart beat," Harry added.

They're good friends aren't they? Poseidon thought to Hades. Mal's really lucky to have them.

…the fact that Jay got invited off the Isle as well might be the only reason why I was even remotely okay with Mal going, Hades told him. If it was only Mal of her group, I'd have said no.

Even though she'd be in Auradon?

She would have been without a single ally. Well a single immediate ally since she'd have Steph of course.

Hades couldn't help but give the three of them a smile. It was clear that they lived by their motto and that they'd be loyal to each other.

"You said it yourself Uncle Hades. Family means no one gets left behind," Uma said. "Well Jay and Harry are family just like Mal is."

"She's got that right," Mal nodded.

"Harry, the pain medicine only works if you actually take it," Mal told Harry, noticing he still hadn't taken the pills. "It's not poison I promise."

"Dad wouldn't do that," Mal said, shaking her head. "Now if it was the Dragon, I'd understand you being wary."

"Mal, if the Dragon handed me anything and told me to eat it, I am not ashamed to admit that I'd run the other way," Harry stated.

"I think everyone would," Phillip Jr. told him.

"I trust you Mal," Harry sighed. "It's just…the Captain always said that men and pirates don't complain about pain though."

Milah shook her head. Honestly James, what are you teaching our son? It may be the Isle but he should be able to accept help when he needs it.

"Well he's not here and nobody in this room will tell him. After what you did, none of us are going to let you be in pain. Also, and I'm shocked I have to tell you this but you're nine," Mal rolled her eyes. "Just take the pills."

"Are we sure that Harry's not Ben in pirate form?" Emir asked.

Ben shook his head. "I don't even think that's possible."

"Yes my lady," Harry muttered with a small smile as he put the tablets in his mouth.

"Don't call me that!" Mal grumbled but smiled as Harry swallowed and drank his tea.

"Hey Ben, there you go! Someone else who hates their title as much as you do!" Chip said with a chuckle.

She sipped hers slowly, knowing that her parents were watching.

"Thank you for the tea your ladyship," Harry said. "Oh, and the clothes."

"Virgil was the one who picked them out," Persephone said with a small smile at the memory. "Of course he fretted for thirty minutes before he decided on them but he managed."

"You're very welcome Harry," Persephone said with a smile.

"You are all welcome here anytime if you need anything," Hades told them.

"Thanks Uncle Hades," Uma said softly. "Any chance you could get us a way off the Isle?"

Don't worry Uma. I have a feeling Ben's on the case, Emir thought as he glanced at his best friend and future King.

Hades couldn't help but give a sad chuckle at the joke. "I may be a God, little squidling, but I can't do everything. Believe me, if I could, you four would already be out of here."

"It should be us four getting off the Isle," Ben heard Mal mutter to herself.

"Oh," Uma said and grew silent.

"Could be worse," Jay said. "We can get decent food and shelter. There are so many other kids who aren't so lucky."

Mal nodded slightly. After all, the practice of Flings for Food was rampant among the lower ranked girls or the girls without a gang. The only reason Mal knew about the practice was because word spread quick on the Isle.

That and the girls had started to ask the boys in her crew. Ginny had tried to go to Henry for a fling, and Mal was pretty sure the crew had only just stopped teasing him about that.

Uma and Harry nodded.

"Like DeVil," Mal said slowly as if thinking. "He's more jumpy than Virgil at times. We should look into bringing him in…or at least offering him protection like we do Hadie and Celia."

"Great minds think alike!" Jay said with a grin.

"I don't know if DeVil will treat that as a compliment considering Hadie and Celia are three."

"The highest ranked VK gang on the Isle wants to put you under its protection? Doesn't matter if you're insulted, you take it," Harriet stated.

"Hey, he can be insulted and refuse," Mal shrugged. "We're the ones taking on the risk since his mom's with the Dragon after all."

"Wouldn't it be as much risk as bringing in Jay though?" Jane asked. "Both he and Carlos have a parent connected to Maleficent after all."

"He might be less insulted if we add Gil to the list," Uma said, causing Harry to roll his eyes. "I know you can't stand him Harry but he still deserves food."

"He's an idiot! He's nine and he acts like he's five!"

"Gee Gaston's son isn't the brightest. Who would have guessed?" Chad shook his head.

"Chad!" Cinderella scolded. "Everyone's got intelligence in their own way. Books aren't the only thing we use to see if someone's smart."

"His father's not exactly known for his smarts Harry," Mal pointed out. "Not to mention his brothers aren't the brightest bulbs in the box either. Uma's right, he may be stupid but that doesn't mean he should starve."

"Gaston was a decent hunter in our village. I'm surprised he's having trouble finding food for his sons," Belle said.

"Fine," Harry muttered. "But I'm not spending any more time with him than I have to. Bad enough the Captain keeps forcing him on me."

"Aren't you the same boy who put up a fuss about Jay joining the crew?" Uma asked raising an eyebrow.

"Jay is not Gil!"

"You won't have to Harry. We'll give him take out bags from the restaurant if we see him around. It's not like he'll be sitting there eating with us."

"Oh thank Gods. Every time I have to interact with him, I want to slap him over the head with my hook," Harry said and then paused.

"No matter what timeline I'm in, you always hate Gil," Audrey said with a fond smile. "He's not that bad."

"Speaking of which, has anyone seen my hook?"

"I just might have…" Jay said and pulled out the aforementioned hook.

"How'd you get that?" Harry asked as he grabbed it from Jay.

"Picked it off the dock after Lord Hades shooed me out of the way. I figured you'd go crazy looking for it once you realized you didn't have it."

"Thanks mate," Harry said, giving Jay a small smile.

"I didn't even think, I just dropped it," Harry said, gripping the base of the hook. Mal couldn't help but give him a small smile, she knew how much Harry valued that hook. After all, this was the Isle—they didn't have to do anything if they didn't want to.

Not true Mal. How many times did you have to pretend to be cruel and vicious and mean around the Dragon when you didn't want to? Jay thought.

Harry could have decided his dad's wrath wasn't worth abandoning the counter.

Milah frowned as she looked over and saw Harry flinch slightly. She knew her husband had an aggressive temper and yes he did shoot cannonballs at the Lost Boys but…he wouldn't…

Jay could have decided to focus on his father's quota and Uma could have decided not to get Hades. Instead they picked her.

"The motto's not Ruthless yet Disloyal, Mal," Jay told her. "I don't know about the others but I'm with you till the end of the line."

"Act of Boreadon Mali, act of Boreadon," Uma stated, referencing the only thing that would ever break up the four of them.

"Mal, you okay?" Harry asked. "You're being quiet—that usually means you're planning something or Jay and I are in trouble."

"She could just be tired," Elle pointed out.

"No, no. Harry you're not in trouble. Quite the opposite actually."

"Oh, so Jay's in trouble?" Harry asked with a smirk.

"You seem so happy about that too," Harriet chuckled.

"No! None of you are in trouble!" Mal said with a small giggle. "Why would you be? Unless you two got into mischief while I was getting changed?"

"Considering those two are like a human Pain and Panic…" Celia said.

"I thought that was us!" Emir and Akiho exclaimed.

Ben shook his head. "Don't tell me you two are proud of that?"

"Of course we are!"

"Knowing those two, it's possible," Uma chuckled.

"We didn't touch anything! We swear!"

"That doesn't really scream innocence," Audrey noted with a small smile.

Mal chuckled and shook her head. "No, trust me guys. None of you are in trouble. After what you did today, how could you think that?"

"Quite easily actually," Jay said with a small smirk.

"Okay so you know how Rowyn is clearly just Mal without the purple hair? Those two are clearly your shadows," Chip muttered to Ben.

"Then what is it? You're not usually quiet."

"Just thinking."

"Oh yeah? What about?"

"You guys."

"Oh really? Do tell."

"So nosy," Akiho chuckled.

"Like you're not the same," Ben said, shaking his head in amusement.

Mal gave a small smile. "This is going to sound sappy and Boreadon-y but I was just thinking about how lucky I am to have you guys as my crew."

"That does sound sappy but we'll let you off this once," Jay said with a smile.

"Jay, you tell us how lucky you are you fell in with us every time we eat at Uncle Hades' restaurant," Uma told him, rolling her eyes. "You're pretty sappy as well."

"You've had the same food I have!" Jay exclaimed. "I'd be an idiot not to consider myself lucky I fell in with you guys!"

"Well technically if we didn't need a chicken, we might not have crossed paths," Uma pointed out. "So really we all should be thanking the chicken."

"We do. Every time we eat it," Mal said with a smirk.

"Uma, you still call your mom 'mama'. Don't act like you're not sappy yourself sometimes. In fact, I think the only non-sappy one of us is Harry."

Harry sighed. The others didn't know this but there was a box hidden in the storage closet on the Lost Revenge—in it was the dagger his father had given him when he was two and a lone picture of his mom. Harry had saved it from getting tossed out.

An act that had earned him a slap from his father. But it was worth it—it had been the only way he could remember that his mom had blue eyes like he did rather than the brown eyes the girls both shared with the Captain.

Harry shrugged. "Pirates don't do sappy. But on that note, I should get going. Harriet can only cover for me for so long. That's if she did at all—if she didn't, the Captain really won't be happy I abandoned post."

Don't leave! What are you doing you idiot? The Captain wouldn't take it out on Harriet or the runt, they would have been fine! Your ribs are not going to be happy with you! Harry thought.

"I'll walk you out Harry," Hades said. Harry couldn't help but be a bit nervous at that but followed the God to the front door. "You're not in trouble, I just want to talk."

"No offense Lord Hades but that's not exactly the most comforting thing to hear," Harry pointed out.

"Yes Lord Hades?"

"I'm going to ask you a question and I want you to be honest with me okay? How much do you like working at your father's shop?"

"I though we established the whole 'VKs don't do honesty' thing?" Ashaki asked.

"It's different when you're talking to a God," Celia told her.

Harry shrugged. "As much as any nine year old likes working I guess. The Captain's not the easiest to work under but it's better than being on the streets."

Tiana frowned as she heard that. Working with a parent shouldn't have to be described as 'not the easiest to work under'. Something didn't sit right.

"What if I told you there was another place where you could earn your keep but that would, from the sound of it, treat you better?"

Considering Smee works at dad's restaurant, they'd definitely treat Harry better over there, Mal thought to Uma.

Harry straightened up, obviously interested but trying to not let it show.

"Harry I'm going to make you an offer. After what happened today, I don't want Mal going near the docks. I'd like you to start working at my restaurant, taking orders and giving out food."

"Two seagulls one stone huh Hades?" Poseidon asked with a small smile. He wasn't stupid, he had heard the sayings the pirate was parroting from his father and the God of the Sea knew his older brother was trying to protect the young boy.

You say it's just because he saved Mal but you care about him don't you? Poseidon thought to Hades.

I'm not having another child stand before me to be judged. Not if I can help it, Hades thought back.

He wasn't cruel—there was no way he'd have a nine year old making the food after all.

"There's no way Smee would have let me prepare the food when I was nine," Harry pointed out.

"Me?" Harry asked shocked. "But…I'm just a pirate. I'm honored Lord Hades but are you sure you want me?"

"You saved my daughter's life today Harry. I will not have you treated cruelly. Any of you three for that matter."

Uma nodded and looked over at Harry. Normally she would have wrapped her arm over his shoulder but he was still sitting with his mom and sister. "You are more than just a pirate Harry."

Harry looked down, trying to not let any of the emotions he was feeling show on his face. Pirates were cruel, pirates were vicious. "I doubt the Captain would let me go," he muttered.

"But it's a better opportunity for you," Lonnie pointed out. "Why wouldn't he?"

"I abandoned my post," Harry said with a slight shrug, trying not to show how much he was truly worried that the lesson his father taught him when he got back that night would be in the scroll.

"If he gives you any trouble, send him to me."

"I mean that," Hades said firmly.

Harry looked up, the hope shining on his face despite his best efforts. "Sir you should probably know that I probably won't be any use to you counting money. I…I never learned how to count," he said softly, at a near whisper.

It's okay Harry. You don't have to know, you're number one, Audrey thought with a small smile. Okay that was bad. It's not my fault though—that song from the second viewing just got stuck in my head because of that!

Admitting that was probably a weakness but he didn't want to lose this shot by Hades finding out later and kicking him out.

"If you want, we can teach you," Emir offered.

"I know how to now," Harry told them, looking over at Hades and giving him a small nod in thanks.

Hades nodded. "We can start you off by carrying the food out or cleaning tables and if you want to learn you can be taught."

Harry nodded, still looking a bit hesitant. "If you're sure Lord Hades."

"I wouldn't have made the offer if I wasn't sure," Hades told the young pirate, trying to give him a reassuring smile.

"I'm positive. Now you run along but you're to be at the restaurant by ten for a shift. Any questions?"

"No sir," Harry said and left. Hades sighed and went back to check on Mal and the others. Well and Uma he should say as Jay apparently had slipped past him and snuck out.

"How? There's only one way in and out of the Underworld!" Uma stated, looking at the older boy.

Jay shrugged. "I've been raised to steal stuff since birth Uma. I know how to go undetected if I choose."

Mal had fallen back asleep and Hadie was babbling happily to Uma and Steph, Steph apparently having grabbed him while Hades was walking Harry out. Hades couldn't help but smile at the sight.

I almost wish I'd pulled a Steph and took a photo, Hades thought. We don't have that many pictures of Steph with the girls or with Hadie, she's always taking them. Hmm, I wonder…the girls always say the DeVil pup is good with tech. Actually he'd have to be if he built something that put a hole in the barrier. I wonder if he could make it so Steph was in one of the pictures?

His family was safe—his daughter was safe. That was all he could ask for, living on the Isle.

"That's the end," Esmeralda said, her voice soft.

"Gods this was a rather intense chapter," Emir sighed.

Ben nodded and glanced down, finally noticing that Mal's hand was still around his wrist. "Um…you can let go if you want?"

"Oh!" Mal exclaimed and released the death grip she had on Ben's wrist. Much to his disappointment. "Who's reading next?"

"I can go," Meg offered.