Adventures in Auradon

by LotusQuil

Mal got her brother off the Isle, as promised. Unfortunately, she's so busy, Hadie is left to navigate Auradon on his own. Newfound friends are easily made, but not everyone is accepting of the VK's. It doesn't help despite their parents' wishes, Olympus doesn't wait to come calling. [Cross-posted on AO3]. Follows Ginnyrules27's Choosing Love. Sequel to Choosing Hadie. T for swears

9. Chapter 9

Disclaimer: I own nothing. Everything belongs to Disney, Descendants, or Ginny's AU. I'm just playing in it. Any new OCs are mine.

Mindlink/Telepathy – Italics, no quotation marks

'Thoughts' – Italics, with quotation marks

Quotes from Ginny's series – Bolded

Normal Speech

A/N: Sorry for late posting. Okay, not really. This chapter is almost 16000 words and over 30 pages. As stated on my profile, I'm doing NaNoWriMo and that will likely interfere with updates. As it obviously did. My original plan was to already be done, keeping each chapter about 5000 words. It's become an excuse to write ridiculously long chapters instead so I'm not splitting focus between projects. On the upside, the next chapter is mostly written already because it was part of this chapter till I realized this was about 20k combined.

ALSO, I STARTED A NEW JOB. So, I'm pretty darn busy. That, plus holiday season, plus the ridiculous amount of birthdays that exist in my family for the month of November alone, is EXHAUSTING. My own birthday is coming up this week, which I tend to just have it on Turkey Day anyways, because then my family can't get out of celebrating my birthday mwahahahahaha (Semi-kidding, my grandma and her mom do the same thing, so it's always been a birthday/family reunion fusion).

USUAL WARNING OF RATED T: Mainly for language as well as some implied sexual interaction. BETWEEN ADULTS. Because I'm not comfortable writing about kids outside of innocent exploration.

AmethystDragon14: YES! I needed to let out some much-needed exertion on Leah and take a stab at her with each press of a key on my keyboard. I couldn't resist adding Malefilizard into the mix. Make them all suffer!

Jedblack1997: Ah, hindsight is 20/20. We can definitely imagine that part of the sentencing is every soul Leah caused directly or indirectly by Auradon machinations or starving the Isle, are those who get to torture her and order her around in her pseudo-altered memory life.

Ginnyrules27: I hope this satisfies you somewhat! And while Henry might be one of the leaders, Hadie probably avoids forced sword training xD Yup, you got it! I pulled some inspo from Hounds, but I also figured since Hadie isn't technicallyyyy meant to be talking to the Casters, and Reg runs around outside of safe territory, it's a just in case measure. Oh yeah…ahem. I think everyone in the room would be embarrassed.

Danifan3000: I never read the books, I'm going solely off the movies and Ginny's take. Maybe one day, but I don't have the time. For here, my decisions are based off there mainly being, from what I've seen, a ridiculous amount of plot holes. To me when I looked up Selfishness 101 for an earlier chapter in Choosing Hadie, I imagined it as something else. Greed, for one. Plus, Evie is a lot older, polaroid cameras are usually fully used, so for an Isle in need of resources, I don't think every single kid that went through the school would have the opportunity to do selfies. Just trying to bring in elements of realism.

OceanBlueSeaEyes: Happy to deliver!

As always: Enjoy!

---

The annoying sound of crumpling paper briefly filled Hadie's ears as his fist clenched down on the latest letter from Celia.

'Ah, crap,' thought Hadie as he placed the paper onto his desk and attempted to straighten it out. He liked to keep all the letters his friends sent, but this latest one had taken him by surprise. Adjusting the lamp, he leaned forward in his seat and reread the letter one last time. Thankfully, Jay and Harry were out. He just couldn't help feeling bad that he couldn't help his friends stuck on the Isle when they needed it earlier.

Flametop

That was some much-needed heads up. Not to mention the supplies. I'm assuming you spoke with your grandmother, because we were getting colder and colder with each night, and then suddenly the frost seemed to melt overnight. Still cold as fuck though. In the meantime, we took that kid on board and there will be a letter off to Mal and Uma too. The kid didn't seem too keen on crossing the Graveyard to get to HOP so we'll be taking them on as a potential new Rat-in-Training. They're a little too young for that still, so at the very least, they'll be under our protection.

Otherwise, yea…no change in Barge quality. Think you could keep sneaking better food over? The blankets and quick insulation for the boat was nice, but I'd rather be cold than hungry…

Ignore the first half of this letter.

I know, I know, this is late. Sue me. Couldn't help it. I had waited to send this one off for you because I was waiting to get the others. Plus, I had to hide it. With the initial poor weather, a lot of flammable material is taken no matter what. Got my earlier letter off to Uma so she came through with supplies already, don't worry about us. I finally managed to get this out but even with your gran calling off her extra cold front, it was a pain in the ass to get anything to the Barge crew. I'm glad King Beastie Jr is going to turn them over soon. They would dump out the usual crap, pack up and leave, cowards couldn't stand the biting, icy waters. So, we haven't been able to get them to take the mail system as intended. Report that would you? Sons of bitches. I'd have sent word through your dad, but since it was too cold to really leave town, I couldn't even get out to run errands. I have no clue how Virgil held up. But he said they basically live with y'all usually during winter. Smee and Callux have pretty much been handling the restaurant since your dad is too busy with the Underworld at this time. Though Callux will likely bail once the weather warms up. Never know with either of those Chernabog twins, so he could be Castor all along. Not to mention the idiots who still try to bother your dad with their 'needs'. Whiny bastards. I get its Winter and more issues arise, but I guess no one listens to the fact that my daddy got delegated to deal with it just for the season since he pretty much handles town itself. That's where everyone goes to huddle against the cold after all.

New kid is doing okay. Doesn't really talk. Jake has been trying to teach him letters so we can at least get an idea of what to call him. He responds to 'Letters' though, even if it just means he knows it's time to practice. It might stick as his name in the end.

Anyways. Don't worry. Change is around the corner. We managed to have some fun. You missed the giant party we had when Shenzi said that Queen Bitch was dead. Didn't help when Lord Hades officially confirmed it with an Isle wide announcement. Your parents can really cut a rug by the way, at least that's what Daddy said. I dunno quite what he meant, but it was a pretty fun time anyhow, what with the weather starting to warm back up a tad.

Pulling out his letter stash, Hadie folded the message from Celia, already thinking over how he would respond. 'I guess it's not really my fault considering what Celia said about it at first being too cold to reach the docks. Still, wish things would get better already. Definitely memo to me. Tell Ben and Akiho even the less corrupt of the Barge workers that Akiho let stay employed aren't really doing their jobs.'

Hadie closed the box and sighed. It wasn't fair that he finally made it to Auradon and that everyone still on the Isle was still suffering despite them figuring out what even needed to be fixed. He was a little jealous of the party though.

'I don't need to see mom and dad 'cutting a rug' though. I know what usually follows.'

He wouldn't have been surprised to find out that his parents were currently quite close to be doing exactly that. At least until they were interrupted.

"Please?"

"No, Hades," Persephone sighed as she answered for the twenty-third time that day. Once again, she was elbow deep in sudsy water. Though this time instead of dishes, she was rubbing her hands raw trying to do the laundry.

"Come oooon, babe!" Hades begged, splashing water at her from where he was also currently knelt, though he was doing very little to help finish the chore. "Pleeeease! I'm literally on my knees begging here!"

"I'd appreciate it more if you'd be on your knees helping me finish," huffed Persephone, heaving a water laden dress out of the washbin.

"Sure, fine, here," Hades scrambled to stand. "I'll go set up the heat room so it's ready to start drying, be right back."

As Hades dashed from the room, Persephone sighed once more, lugging the last of the waterlogged laundry out into a woven basket. Setting it against the fitted bars, she braced the basket over the washbin and pressed all over weight against the clothes, squeezing the excess water out to pour back into the container below.

"That God is driving me crazy just as much as Mal is," Persephone grumbled to herself. "Why he wants me to bring back about a hundred pounds of chalk, I've no clue."

"So, I can break down the fucking Barrier is why," said Hades as he reentered the room. "Dry room is ready by the way."

"What? Hades!"

"Whaaat?" he whined, "I said I would set up the room, didn't I?

"Hades you know that's not what I meant!"

"Okay, okay, but it's for Mal!" Hades lifted the heavy damp laundry, following Persephone towards the room he's set up to hang everything. "Months of no communication? Even with the Mind Link, Uma and Hadie occasionally send us a letter! Harry sends me updates with how he's doing, or asks me advice on some of his homework."

"I know," her lips pursed as she began pinning up the laundry. "I plan to deal with it as soon as I'm Auradon again. I won't be letting her brush me off without answers."

"There's still a little over a month for that though, and it just seems to be getting worse by the week!"

"I know, dear, but you don't need to get into any more trouble, and there isn't much either of us can do until I'm off Isle or until Mal gives in and talks to us," spoke Persephone as she put up the last of the clothes. "Or if she speaks with anyone else for that matter."

"Are you sure you can't bring chalk back for me so I can break this damned Barrier down?" asked Hades again as he grabbed Persephone by the waist as she had moved to leave the room.

"I could, but I have no clue how that even works in that brain of yours. Not to mention, you'd still have to wait considering it relies on me coming back from Auradon."

"Ah. Right." Hades let go and proceeded to repeatedly thump his head into the stone wall.

"Hey, hey, hey now," tutted Persephone, resting a hand to tug on his shoulder in an effort to get him to stop. "None of that. I promise you, Hades, I'll take care of it as soon as I get to Auradon."

As Hades continued to beat his head into the wall, Persephone wrapped her arms around him from behind. The action at least made him pause, the wall too far to hit now that he'd been pulled a bit further away.

"You know…that was the last chore I needed to do today," Persephone stepped onto the tip of her toes to purr into Hades' ear, her breasts pressing into his back. "And you've already finished Underworld work, so we could take the rest of the day to…"

"A recommendation I have no business turning down," Hades growled back as he quickly turned and yanked Persephone forward so that she was against the wall instead.

The steam from the already hot room was no help as Persephone mewled under Hades' wandering hands, the God moaning into her mouth as she bit his lip, he in turn drawing one of his legs upwards to press between her thighs.

"H-Hades—"

Aunt Steph? You there? Uma's insistent voice came through the mind link.

"Fuck!" Persephone gasped, shoving Hades away.

"Steph?" Though his face was more amused than concerned at her rare use of language.

"Uma's contacting me, I'm sorry sweetheart," Persephone sighed as she reached back with her telepathy, Hades reluctantly stepping away, guiding her to the Den as their tryst was ended.

…Uma?Persephone finally responded as she sat with Hades upon their sofa.

I hope I'm not bothering you but I wanted to reach out.

You are never a bother Uma. But you hardly ever reach out on the mental link, at least not to me. Is...is something wrong? Is it Hadie? Mal? Persephone tensed, sensing Uma's own stress and worry over the link instead of just Mal's.

It's...Aunt Steph, something's going on with Mal. Everyone's noticed and she won't talk to anyone. Even Ben's concerned.

I can feel her panic and stress through the mental link every day but she's got me on mute, Persephone said with a sigh. She's got her father on mute as well, meaning he's been taking his frustration out on Pain and Panic. Thankfully, ever since Maleficent became a lizard, people have been turning to him to rule the Isle since Mal stated she was his daughter at King Ben's coronation.

I bet Uncle Hades loves that.

You know what, oddly enough he does not,Persephone glanced at Hades and chuckled, receiving a confused look back from the God as he impatiently waited for the conversation to end.But it helps to keep his mind off of Mal and her muted link so that can only be a good thing. Otherwise, he'd drive himself mad. You know he actually reached out to your grandfather to see if he'd heard anything?

Really?!

That had been a difficult time, as Winter approached and Hades was already sulking at the lack of children to spoil for Saturnalia. He'd only slightly cheered up as Leah had been sent to the Isle a few days later.

Yes. He wasn't thrilled when Poseidon didn't know anything and he was even less thrilled when your grandfather recommended that he reach out to Zeus.

Ooh Uncle Hades would definitely not like the idea of reaching out to Zeus.

You would be right in that regard. But because it had to do with Mal, he did so. Granted Zeus also knew nothing but Hades brought me into the conversation otherwise it more than likely would have been derailed with your uncle ranting at Zeus.

It had barely lasted a minute. The moment that Zeus admitted he didn't know anything, Hades slammed the Link shut, leaving Persephone to wrap the conversation up with the estranged brother. That hopefully, if Zeus or Poseidon ever heard anything, to please at least let her know. Especially as Hades would likely sulk and not respond to either brother for a long while.

Uncle Hades can go on pretty impressive rants.

Persephone chuckled and then sighed. Uma, I want to be there for Mal. I don't know what's going on but if she needs me...Gods, if it wasn't for this agreement I'd be by her side right now!

Well then, you're in luck Aunt Steph. Ben said he'd grant you early leave from the Isle. He'd probably have to send a car since there's no way the stubborn old swan known as my uncle would let you leave early through the portal but—."

A car is fine, Persephone said instantly. It's perfect actually. How soon would that car be here?

I'm sure Ben would send it right now but let me ask him. I'll be right back.

Persephone turned to Hades, taking the lull in conversation as a chance to fill him in a little bit before Uma would come back.

"Well?" Hades impatiently asked, his leg bouncing as the other crossed over and tapped the air. "That wasn't a brief talk, what happened?"

"I'm leaving. Sounds like Uma is coming through yet again, just like she did with Hadie. She and Ben are going to sit Mal down to try and get a breakthrough. I'm just waiting to hear back as she is asking King Ben how soon he can get a limo to pick me up." She held a finger up as Hades opened his mouth to speak, Uma having returned to declare Ben's decision.

Ben says he'll send the car right away.

I knew he'd be quick about it but I didn't think he'd be that quick,Persephone responded, one part amazed and one part eyeing Hades in worry.

He's worried about Mal. I think he really cares about her Aunt Steph. I know I don't really do the touchy-feely stuff but I'd have to be blind not to see it.

Well then, I'm glad he's there for her, Persephone said. And I'll be there too. I'll be on the lookout for the car.

Knowing Ben, he might be driving that car.

The link disconnected, signaling Persephone to swiftly stand from her seat and begin getting ready.

"He's sending a car now."

"Now?" Hades jumped up to follow her, the Goddess quickly changing out of her casual sweats and into a pair of jeans and a knit, olive sweater. She would still need to walk the Isle in order to reach the limo, but she also needed to be presentable for Auradon.

"Yes," came the muffle reply, a hairband in Persephone's mouth as she rushed to pin up her hair.

"Here," Hades said, nabbing her peacoat from the closet as his wife tugged on her shoes, Persephone hopping as she made her way back out of the room.

"Wait, Steph," Hades hurried after Persephone, the pair quickly making their way up and out of the Underworld. "Keep your Mind Link open for me to lurk on? I want to be able to know what's going on too, even if I can't talk to Mal."

"I will, I promise," Persephone grimaced as she tried not to openly speed walk to the already waiting limo. "I can't believe it's already here, Hades I—"

"I'll be okay," he said, yanking a door open and ushering her in, quickly pecking her cheek as she sat. "We'll figure everything else out after we make sure Mal is okay. I love you."

"I love you too," Persephone buckled up, waving at Hades as he shut the door just as Isle residents began to appear, their curiosity getting the better of them. A double knock sounded above her head as the God pounded the limo, signaling the driver to take off. Persephone rung her hands stressfully as the car lurched and began to drive back over the temporary golden bridge.

'I'm coming, Mali. I swear you're going to be okay.'

---

"Ma'am? Lady Persephone? We're here."

Persephone jolted out of her whirlwind of thoughts at the driver's voice, confirming with a glance that she was indeed at Auradon Prep.

"Thank you, ah—"

"Dean, my Lady," the driver bowed as he held the door for her. "I've already texted King Ben of your arrival, he should be here momentarily to escort you to his office."

"Lady Persephone!"

And so he was.

"King Ben. My daughter?"

'Screw protocol' Persephone thought, only giving Ben a brief nod as she swiftly made her way towards the school. 'I need to make sure she's okay.' She heard Ben give some quick orders to Dean before the footsteps of him jogging back up next to her.

"Uma's gone to collect Mal, we'll be meeting in my office," Ben spoke, taking the lead through the winding hallways. "At least temporarily. The plan is to move to my dorm as my friends tend to barge into my office unannounced, but I've distracted them for now by having them organize a picnic for after we hopefully get through to the root of whatever is causing Mal's distress."

"I greatly appreciate this, King Ben," Persephone sighed as the youthful King ushered her into his office, the door closing behind them.

"Lady Persephone," the serious look was oddly out of place on Ben's normally jovial face, the teen's demeanor completely stern. "I would like you to know that I place Mal's happiness before my own. Not only is she a classmate, a close friend in some sort of crisis, but she's my girlfriend and it hurts me to not know what is hurting her."

"Thank you, for being here when I couldn't, King Ben."

"Please, Ben is fine, this isn't official business."

"Maybe one day, King Ben," smiled Persephone, slightly amused despite the gravity of the situation.

The conversation was then halted from continuing as the office door suddenly opened.

"Why are you the way that you are?" Mal's voice came through, quickly followed by a rapport from Uma who just so happened to be leading the way into the room.

"Would you have me any other way?" Uma grinned as she and Persephone made eye contact. The Goddess turned further her face breaking into a smile as she saw Mal's shocked face.

"Mom?"

Persephone hadn't known what to expect. She certainly didn't expect being tackled by her sixteen-year-old daughter. What she didn't expect at all was for said daughter to begin sobbing in her arms. She didn't expect to be clung onto as if the only lifeline left in the world to keep Mal from drowning again.

"Shh, shh, it's okay Mali," Persephone said, gently rubbing Mal's back as Mal's body continued to be wracked with silent sobs. "I'm here."

If a person is the cause of this, I'm likely going to kill them. I have Mal.

Is…is Mali crying? Hades' voice carried back onto the link, the God popping on to spy at the goings-on at Persephone's notice. She felt his anger intensely spike at the revelation. If the friggen beastie boyfriend is behind this, I don't care if he's king! He's dead!

I don't think it's him, but we will get to the bottom of this, Persephone thought as she held Mal tightly, still rubbing her back. Back by the door she could see Uma and Ben speaking in not so hushed whispers.

In the corner of her eye, Ben nodded, just as interested in understanding what had been going on as she was.

"That would be a good idea, King Ben," Persephone spoke up. "As I would also like to know why my daughter is still sobbing in my arms and why I'm just now learning about it!"

Months of no contact. Months of stress and fear pouring through the link. There was no way just Cotillion was the reason anymore.

Gods, she feels cold…where is her jacket?

She's not wearing it? She barely takes that off to even sleep!

No! She's wearing…she might as well be wearing something I might wear here in Auradon! A dress, but not even with a light shrug or shawl!

"We didn't know Aunt Steph," Uma said softly. "We...well we thought something was going on with Mal but we didn't know what it was and it didn't seem fair to worry you since you were on the Isle for your six months."

Persephone sighed and shook her head, looking down at her daughter. "Mal, honey? Are you up for talking? What's wrong sweetheart?"

We should've done something sooner. Demanded Uma to do something sooner even. I know their kids, they shouldn't have to deal with extra pressure or solve what we as adults should be doing, but…

Steph…I'm stuck on the Isle. You were on the Isle. Even if Uma managed to get a hold of Mal sooner, who's to say Ben would've still summoned you? That Mal would even somewhat willingly be in that room, or possible no longer talking to Uma at all?

Despite Mal trying to break away, Persephone held onto her daughter's shoulders, unwilling to risk the chance of her running away as she habitually would. Her heart seized furiously, though she kept her expression calm as Persephone watched her daughter attempt to wipe away tears.

"Hey, hey," Persephone said gently, grabbing her hands as to stop her from wiping away the telltale sign of her crying. "You don't need to be ashamed of your tears Mali. You don't need to put on a brave exterior. Not here. Not around me."

"Or me," Uma nodded.

"Or me," Ben said softly as he walked over to her. "Mal...talk to me. What's going on?"

It took Ben resting a hand on her shoulder and speaking again to keep Mal from retreating further into her silent shell. "If you want, we can go someplace with a bit more privacy."

"This is your office," whispered Mal, refusing to make eye contact with anyone in the room. "I don't know if there's any place with more privacy?"

Ben couldn't help but give her a look. "You and I know perfectly well that Akiho and Emir love to randomly burst in here if they think I've been working too hard. That's not much of a guarantee of privacy."

Persephone and Uma traded relieved looks as Mal let out a small giggle. It was a small thing, but still a good sign. This was possible. They could break through to her, bit by bit.

"Come on," Ben said gently, holding out his hand.

With a sigh of relief from a breath Persephone didn't even know she had been holding, she watched as Mal took Ben's hand and for the first time in a while, smiled. Though there was still some small bit of hesitation left. Mal turned, a look of trepidation on her face as she asked her mother a question, her voice almost pleading.

"Mom are...are you going to be there too?"

"A Cerberus couldn't drag me away," she swore. Not until she understood exactly what was going on. Though mentioning the animal made her realize several somethings. "Speaking of Cerberuses...where's yours?"

"With his attendant," replied Mal as she and Ben led the way to his dorm room.

"As late in the day that it is, I assume classes are over? Is your brother with Jay and Harry then?" Persephone asked, looping an arm through Mal's. She tried not to look concerned as she noticed Mal frown at the mention of Hadie. Was there something wrong with Hadie as well that they hadn't noticed? He'd seemed fine when they spoke to him over the weekend as they always had.

"Ah, we didn't have classes today," Ben explained. We get an extra free day every few weeks to let everyone wind down from our responsibilities. Jane's been running ragged, so I think it's Fairy Godmother trying to help."

"As for Hadie," said Uma, speaking up instead of Mal, which only furthered Persephone's concern. "He's off with his own group of friends, I don't know Auradon Middle's area as well, but he's usually over there or at the shared library."

"He always did like his books," smiled Persephone. Suddenly, Uma tapped Ben on the shoulder, jerking her head towards a different corridor and shared a nod with the boy. Persephone blinked as Uma quietly broke off from the group and headed towards what she recognized as the direction of the dorm she shared with Mal.

In the meantime, they shortly found themselves at Ben's dorm.

'Which makes sense now that I think about it, that he would need to be close to his office.' Persephone thought.

She was briefly amused at Ben's attempt at manners, offering her a stiff wooden chair to sit upon as the only other seating was a bed covered in gaudy blankets of a beautiful shade of blue, marred by the royal beast crest repeating patterns across it. The worried mother kept her grip upon Mal as she guided the pair to sit on the bed, Ben taking the chair instead.

"...mom, as much as I love the fact that you're here, aren't you going to get in trouble with Old Lightning Butt?" Mal's voice pulled her mother's attention as said parent held her so close, the purple-haired Godling may as well be sat on her lap like a little kid again. Persephone was pleased to find Mal leaned into the hug instead of putting up any kind of resistance.

"Zeus can worry about the agreement when he wants to actually provide a good agreement for a mother of two who has a daughter who needs her. King Ben was kind enough to provide a car and Zeus can't really get upset if I came at behest of the King, now can he?"

Not to mention he always said the Isle wasn't his jurisdiction. If he's going to play that card, he can't stop me if Ben himself requested my presence.

One of the few benefits of Mal dating that sunspot. Even if I'd rather she not be dating at all.

Persephone internally rolled her eyes at Hades' commentary.

"You've been around dad too much if you can list a loophole that quickly."

Oh, Mali, you've got no idea…

You say that like it's a bad thing!

"When you become a parent, Mali, you'll learn that you'll do whatever it takes to make sure your kids know you're there for them," Persephone said gently, softly brushing a bit of hair out of Mal's face.

It wasn't until Uma returned with a stack of newspapers that Mal tried to bolt, wrenching herself from her mother's dropped guard and loosened hug. Luckily Ben had leapt up and managed to grab her, but the conversation immediately turned defensive and dissolved into shouting as Uma took to playing offense. From the newspapers to Mal becoming oddly flighty at dragons, more and more was slowly unraveling to show just what had been going on with Mal for the last several months.

Gods, what happened to our talk that dragons were okay, Mal?

Or my talk to stay true to herself and not let Auradon force her to change.

"Uma, just drop it okay?! It's nothing, alright? If I don't go now, we're going to be treated to Natalie blowing up my phone—!"

"Why would this Natalie blow up your phone?" asked Persephone, one of her rare interjections. She had been content to just be a calming presence and allow Uma and Ben try to lead the conversation. "On that note, who is Natalie? I thought I knew all your friends Mal unless this is one from Auradon?"

"She's...she's not a friend," Mal sighed, looking at her mom. "She's my 'handler'."

"...why on Gaia's green earth would anyone think you'd need to be handled?" Persephone growled, her blue eyes flashed, not unlike Mal's.

The hell does that even mean?

"There, um, there were some on my council who thought it might help Mal in navigating the royal life. I was not one of them!" Ben quickly backpedaled as Persephone's eyes pierced him, knowing very well she was not someone he'd want to anger.

He better not have been. Otherwise, I'd still want that chalk and drag him to the Underworld alive! I'll gladly stay stuck on the Isle if it means any threat against Mali is taken care of!

"Considering the status your mother had all her life before marrying your father, I should hope so!" scolded Persephone, unable to resist reprimanding the young King as if it was still his fault, trying to hold back the flood of Hades just as equally flipping out over the Link. "For that matter, I've been working with Mal on navigating life in Auradon. Just in a manner that would also help her survive the Isle!"

"It's true," Uma nodded. "Aunt Steph was a big help in learning diplomacy and all that stuff that a captain of the seas needs to know. Probably comes from having to deal with Zeus for six months."

Ah, it comes from much more than that. Have you really not shared what you do off Isle with the kids?

Outside of helping my mother and the asinine things that occur on Olympus itself? No.

I love how you play the sweet and innocent Goddess. Though the mint plant gig may have given away your bite a bit.

Now is not the time dear.

"You're allowed free time Mal, I don't understand why Natalie would be blowing up your phone." Ben began, visibly upset as their conversation went on. Unless...hang on...Mal, Natalie's not the reason you don't want to be called 'dragon' anymore, is it?"

Ben's question officially activated the alarm bells in Persephone's head. A handler that they hadn't known about, the only new variable as far as she could see.

Persephone's intensified the focus of her glare upon Ben.

"I just can't!" snapped Mal, clearly feeling the pressure. The Godling's eyes flashed bright green, brightening her natural shade.

'Oh, Mal. That's my shade of green too, remember? I adopted you magically, you're more God than fae now. It just seems like it hadn't changed because the magic is channeled through already green eyes and not my darker blue.'

"Because maybe, Ben, I don't want you to realize you're potentially dating the next version of Maleficent' like the entire kingdom already knows—!"

Mal's words pulled Persephone from her thoughts, watching as her daughter slapped a hand over her mouth, clearly having said more than she had wanted to.

"What do you mean the next Maleficent?" Ben carefully asked as he took Mal's hand away from his mouth and holding it in his own. "You're nothing like Maleficent."

"Maleficent could turn into a dragon Ben," Mal said softly. "She's what people think of when they think of dragons...if I have to give up dragons to distance myself from her, I'm fine doing that. They're only clothes and pictures...they're...they're not important."

"What?" Mal asked softly, noticing the shocked looks. "Ben, your safety's more important. If the kingdom thought you were spelled or something because you were dating the next Maleficent—."

Steph, please set her straight, I can't take this anymore, I can't say anything myself!

I know you're right. I've heard plenty enough.

"Malinda!"

"Yes mom?" Mal asked, looking over at Persephone.

"You are not the next Maleficent!" Persephone said firmly. "I seem to remember you standing up against Maleficent at the battle at King Ben's coronation."

Mal sighed. "Mom, it doesn't matter. I'm still genetically connected to the Dragon even if I know you're my mom. All anyone will see is a copy of Maleficent because you can change everything about yourself but you can't change genetics..."

Ben wrapped his arms around Mal, whispering softly into her ear as he gently rocked them back and forth, trying to calm his girlfriend down.

Mal sniffed softly as she buried her head into Ben's shoulder.

"Hey, hey," Ben said gently, putting his hand on Mal's chin and gently raising it up so he was looking her in the eye. "You are Mal. You are one of a kind. You're a dragon themed, spray painting, pirate co-captaining girl who has no qualms about walking into my office to tell me I'm working too long. You are not Maleficent, you are Malinda. And anyone who says otherwise is an idiot. Maleficent doesn't hold a monopoly on dragons, just ask Lonnie about Mushu. Hell, I like dragons. Does that make me like Maleficent?"

"No! Ben, you're nothing like Maleficent!" Mal told him.

"Then why are you?" Ben asked gently. "You're doing the same as me, admiring dragons for the animal they are and not for the person most of us think of."

"Ben, I'm genetically connected to her! Like it or not there's no changing that!"

Do you think Mal would like to be biologically adopted too? It wouldn't wipe out her genetic relations to the demon much, since it's been so many years, but that's not like a bad thing that she can't completely sever that connection.

We didn't go that route because it can be painful.

Because she had started the throes of puberty. Recommendations for minimal was for before or after the final stages. So not for a few years, but maybe when she's far older, we can pass it by her and she can make the decision for herself.

I can think of several issues that might pop up. But again. Not the time.

"Mal, blood does not dictate family or personality," Ben said softly. "Chip is my brother even if we're not connected by one drop of blood. Hell, Emir and Akiho are practically my brothers—the whole Tourney team is actually. My father, before he was turned into a beast, was rude, shallow and arrogant, I'll freely admit that. Am I any of those things?"

Think of your own father Mali, he's an egotistical mad God who likes to abuse his minions on the daily. You're nothing like that.

Hey!

"No!"

"Then why should your genetics have anything to do with Maleficent?" Ben asked.

Persephone shook her head slightly as they waited for Mal to answer. Oh sure, it's just the same thing I've been saying ever since we got Mal back from that witch but what do I know? I'm just your mother. Gods help me when Hadie's a teenager.

What teenager? He's a baby forever whether he likes it or not. They both are.

Hush, Hades. It's happening whether we like it or not.

Preferably not.

Things seemed to finally be improving, a breakthrough made, revealing the root of Mal's distress. Until the real reason of it all interrupted the growing peace. Mal's worries were one thing. The cause of putting those fears in her head was apparently quite an actual monster.

"Gods a minute's peace, is that too much to ask?" Mal moaned as her phone rang, the caller ID showing the infamous Natalie. "Hi Natalie. Yes, yes, I know I'm late...I'm sorry, I was just—."

"I don't care Mal! When will you get it into your ditzy brain that you can't goof off and keep missing meetings? My Gods, the way you're going, I'm surprised King Ben isn't more embarrassed by you!"

Hades' presence came full force into Persephone's mind, his anger flooding with her own. It was all she could do to simply narrow her eyes and continue to glare, nails almost puncturing skin as she tightened her hands into fists.

It didn't even matter that Mal had likely only hit the speaker setting by accident. The unknown wench was yelling at her daughter.

"I know, I know...I'm really sorry Natalie. I'll be right over," said Mal, her demure, droning tone confusing her audience.

How often has this gone on, not even how long, for Mal to just default into a defeated nature so easily? That's not like her at all!

Persephone. Deal. With. This.

No rushing. I want to see if this irritating, insignificant ant says anything else to incriminate her.

"You know we'll have to go over your allotted time, and all your meetings now are going to run into each other. If you didn't have those hours blocked off for magic of all things, maybe I could be a bit more flexible with your schedule but clearly you don't care about getting this right. Gods, what King Ben sees in a slacker like you I'll never know. I'm just glad you finally wised up and got rid of those stupid dragon clothes and leather! You should look like a Lady, not a ruffian. Am I just wasting my time being your handler? Because I'd have thought you would finally get some decent time management? Gods, a Lady doesn't run late to meetings Mal!"

Persephone stared gobsmacked at the phone. At the audacity of a mortal attacking a Godling. Whether or not they believed if Mal was her daughter, Mal at her most basic aspect was considered under the umbrella of the Gods. Every single word from this so-called handler was an attack upon everything that made Mal, Mal. Not to mention things that Persephone knew that Mal was not. The Godling put her all into everything she did.

Evidently, Mal had tried putting her all into the ridiculous demands of this useless handler hence why she was so different.

Yet clearly, it's not just about forcing Mal to be a perfect Auradon reflection of a princess.

No, Hades echoed. This bitch is after ruining Mal for the sake of it, not helping. Methinks something foul is afoot. Memo to me…read their file, and further interrogate a certain someone's soul.

"Yes Natalie, I know...and I appreciate what you're doing..." Mal whispered.

'No Mali, you shouldn't even have to give this useless excuse of a soul the time of day. You're stronger than her.' Persephone clenched her hands, nails sharply printing the palms of her hands.

"Okay that's it," Ben growled. "I've heard enough!"

"Ben, if you don't kill her, I will," Uma snarled, rubbing Mal's back as Mal stared at her boyfriend in shock, Ben having grabbed the phone from her hands.

"Ben, don't—!"

"Malinda, it's either Ben has a talk with her or I have a talk with her," growled Persephone, her own eyes now continuously glowing, though still trying to tamp down the surge of power she felt as her anger continued to grow. "Granted, I'll be having a talk with her either way but it might be better if Ben goes first."

Mal sighed but nodded.

Persephone kept one ear open on the rather heated conversation Ben held with the sycophant that was evidently this Natalia, as she joined Uma in comforting Mal. It was becoming more difficult, as Hades continued to rant telepathically which Persephone's own anger to spike as his constantly flowed through, to keep herself from snatching Mal's phone from Ben and demanding Natalie be smited.

Can we kill her? Send her to me, send her to me, send her to me. Killkillkillkill—

I'm trying not to be tempted here, Hades.

Nonono, KILL. I could punish her so many different ways! No one touches our children and gets away with it! She's unworthy of Life! Bossing my Mal around, running her ragged? I could put her in a field of impervious thorns, planted over hot coals and force her to run across them for all eternity! She hates leather? I can send her to the furies! They'll dress her up and do so many shameful things…

Persephone tuned Hades out as Uma spoke, well aware that her husband may very well be the voice mortals get when they have disembodied voices telling them to commit atrocities.

"So, we can't kill her, right?"

Persephone sighed and turned to Uma as Ben continued to berate Natalie. "I'm still toying with the possibility…Hades has been providing suggestions as to her punishments through the mental link."

Fuck yeah, I am, and you've yet to act on any!

"Mom…don't," Mal said softly. "All it would do is make people think being from the Isle's too dangerous and advocate for permanently separating the two worlds. I…I couldn't live completely separated from you…and think about Hadie. He still needs his mom."

There's your answer, Hades. You'll get her soul in the end anyways.

I always do…Fine. Just make sure her life isn't pleasant while she waits to get down here. It doesn't matter if she tries to change a new leaf and starts walking babies in parks or something. She messed with my little girl, and that means a one-way ticket to Tartarus!

"Alright Mal. I won't smite her. Though I make no promises that your uncle won't at some point if he ever finds out what Natalie did."

"Zeus didn't care about me when I was a baby and Maleficent grabbed me, he doesn't care now," Mal scoffed.

Yeah, probably not Zeusy, but that doesn't mean Po-Po might land lock her. Never be safe on waters again.

"Well at the very least, your father will have fun judging her soul when the time comes," Persephone stated. "He had a ball with Leah."

With an excellent finale, if I don't mind saying so myself.

That's enough from you. I'll speak to you later Hades.

Nanana not yet! I wanna know what you're going to do!

"I'm not surprised," Mal said, shaking her head in slight amusement.

Also tell her to friggen talk to me! If either of us are muted on the link like this ever again, she's in so much trouble, I don't care if it's in twenty years or a hundred! No blocky!

"Speaking of your father, he wants you to talk to him," Persephone stated. "And you're never muting your mental link again young lady. If something's going on with you, I want to know."

Damn right! If her mind link isn't back on by tonight to at least let me check in with her, she's grounded for a month!

I think we'll put a day aside for that, dear. You tend to rant, and I feel like making her keep her link open and have to listen to your whole monologue of concerns is fair exchange to let her just have some time with her friends.

Nyeeeh, alright fine. It's not like she did anything wrong anyways. She just needs to learn to keep us in the loop. I get they were concerned about us not being able to do anything off Isle, but I bet you anything that speaking with us over the link would have helped even somewhat.

"Yes mom. I'm sorry... at first, I thought I could handle it or that Natalie just didn't like Uma for some reason. She kept encouraging me to spend time with Elle or Macaria. But then it was jabs about my clothing on top of all The Gazelle articles and then Leah made a comment at her hearing and it just piled on top of each other... plus you were still on the Isle. I didn't want to make you worried since there was still time in your deal."

"Which is why I'll talk to Zeus about reworking that deal," Persephone stated. "I won't leave your father to his lonesome as that's not fair to him but I won't leave you without someone to turn to."

The mother-daughter pair smiled as they hugged once more, Persephone whispering into Mal's ear. "It's the parent's job to protect the kids Mali. Not the other way around."

Persephone couldn't help but smile as Ben suddenly erupted, shouting to the whole room that he loved Mal, a part of her slightly sad that her little girl was really growing up. On the other hand, she was glad Hades was still too busy ranting about Natalie to have heard the confession.

"...they bet on me and Ben?" Mal spoke, pulling Persephone from her thoughts after she had dropped the revelation that Aphrodite was naturally gambling on just about anyone's love life. Especially fellow family members or high-profile members of the world such as Ben.

"Immortal beings, Mal. We get bored very easily." Persephone said, shaking her head. "Now, I think it's time I have some words with this Natalie."

She caught Ben's eye and held out her hand for the phone. Ben nodded.

"Natalie, I will be continuing this conversation but for right now, Mal's mother would like a word with you," Ben said, his voice still a near growl. "I hope for your sake you don't insult Mal the way you've done with me. Because you will be extremely lucky if you still hold a job at the end of this phone call."

Ben handed over the phone and Mal shook her head, going over to him as to provide her mom some privacy for her call.

"Hello, Natalie, is it?"

"Yes, ma'am, Lady P—?"

"That's all I asked, a yes or no question," growled Persephone. "If you're under the impression that you may sway me with false placations, you will find yourself quickly wrong. I have been present since the moment you called my daughter. I heard every syllable of your vitriol targeted at my child. It doesn't matter if I didn't birth her myself, I raised her. Even if Maleficent sunk her claws into her, it was only as a young child. For the last ten years, Mal has been mine."

"But ma'am!"

"I did not give you permission to speak," Persephone spat. "You are an insignificant mortal who is unworthy to even have the honor of speaking to myself let alone either of my children. So, you can take that presumptuous hoity toity little brain of yours, with any ideas that serving royalty is your calling in life, and throw it in the ocean where it's barely fit to feed the fish!"

The Queen of the Underworld continued to rant, not letting Natalie a word in edgewise. Finally, she settled on an idea, something that would at least be suitable and dangerous, a warning to others. To make an example out of pests who harm her children. Persephone let the rage bubble, fueling her magic as the ferocity eventually settled into a simmer from finally being consumed. A vibrant green enveloped her hands as she reached out into the world, focusing on finding the mortal's soul. Cursing the woman for the rest of her life.

"I'm sure you're wondering what I just did," Persephone stated. "Enjoy trying to grow a garden again Natalie. I'm sure it won't take you long to wonder why everything you touch dies."

With that, Persephone handed the phone back to Ben, taking great pleasure as the teen fired the wretched abuser.

Lucky I can't kill you outright, or I'd have it so the moment you even touch plants, fruits, vegetables of any kind, they would rot away.

If she does anything again, you absolutely should. Suffer now, but another toe out of line at least wrangle Hermes in and make a proper example out of her.

I'll recruit my own mother, Hades. Mal or Hadie might never get along with her considering she bashes you so often, but she'll still protect them as long as they're mine.

Helicopter parent or not, your mom turned that one kid into a lizard because he disagreed with her. I'll put up with her as long as she's good to our kids. Even if I'll never fully trust her.

I wasn't aware she'd transformed anyone…Too many acts of the Gods to keep track of. And you never fully trust anyone. Not even the kids.

That's because I taught 'em, and I can't even trust myself, a wave of amusement came through the link, Hades being much calmer now that Natalie had been dealt with.

I'll talk to you later dear. Drop in on a certain buffoon with his head stuck in the clouds before I at least see our son before I return.

Sounds good babe. Gods, what a mess. At least it's been taken somewhat care of.

Yes, hopefully Mal will recover before too long.

"I'll leave you to that," smiled Persephone, closing her own Link as Ben brought up their picnic plans. "I'm sure your driver is anxious to get me back to the Isle."

Ben shook his head. "Lady Persephone, your invitation here is for as long as Mal wants you. I would never presume otherwise."

"That's very kind King Ben but my husband shouldn't be left to his own devices for too long."

"You'll see Hadie though, right?" Mal spoke up. "He'd be devastated if he knew you'd been here and didn't get a chance to see you mom. He misses you."

"I'll be sure to do that, besides," Persephone smiled. "If you want me to stay Mal, of course I will. Hopefully your father won't go completely insane."

"Dad lasted completely on his own before I was born," Mal pointed out. "Not to mention the five years when Maleficent had me full time."

'Barely Mali, barely. Even with me around, with your mute on link causing him to worry, he was going more stir crazy than normal.'

She sighed softly. "It'd be nice if dad could be here too but something tells me that's almost impossible."

"Nothing's impossible," Ben promised. "Once the kids are off the Isle, I can look into getting some of the adults who don't belong there off as well."

Mal stared at him in shock. "Ben...are you serious?"

"As a heart attack."

"That is a very generous offer King Ben," Persephone said with a small smile. "And one I'll be happy to talk to my husband about. But for right now, if you don't mind, I need to go yell at a few Gods."

"Ooh, try to film it so Uma and I can see!" Mal said with a grin.

"Of course, Mal," Persephone chuckled before leaving in a swirl of leaves.

---

'Nothing's impossible.'

Ben's words never left Persephone's thoughts as she marched her way up to the gates of Olympus.

'For now, though, Hades joining us off the Isle is just a pipe dream,' but she couldn't help wistfully wish it were so. Just as she raised a hand to open the gates, they swung open quietly on their own. A pale blue and white streak swiftly zoomed up to float before her.

"Steph!" Hermes cheekily grinned, always the mischievous God. "What are you doing up here, babe? You aren't schedule to show for a meeting for another two months!"

"Hermes," Persephone gritted. He didn't deserve her ire. It had a much better target. "I've found out some rather distressing news, and there is only one God that is possibly responsible."

Hermes peered over his glasses with some concern before he pulled back with a sigh. "What'd the big guy do now?"

"Are you aware I have a daughter, Hermes?" she bit out.

"Mal, right? Purple hair, dating the new King, did good for a newbie at magic in that fight against Maleficent."

"I knew you were one of my favorites for a reason. You actually have a brain."

"Oooh, snappy Steph today! Wanna use me as a soundboard to develop maximum effect?"

"You know what? That would be appreciated."

They moved off to a private patch of cloud, Hermes swirling them around so no one would be able to eavesdrop. As Persephone began to rant, letting her words flow as her thoughts became unjumbled into spears, Hermes nodded his head along, throwing in advice.

There were some inconsistencies. Then Hermes pointed out that going in angry and erratic would hurt her argument. Especially when her husband was already known for being angry, and she shouldn't even be off Isle.

"I suppose as the God of Communication, amongst oh so many other titles, you would know best" Persephone sighed but looked up at her friend wryly. "Thanks for helping me get some of it together at least."

"Hey, what are friends for?" Hermes grinned. "I take it with what's going on, you don't plan to head back to the Isle anytime soon?"

"No, most definitely not," Persephone shook her head, frowning. "My daughter still needs me, and I haven't seen my son yet. I promised to at least see him first, in case Zeus forces me to go back. If Zeus doesn't know I'm here, then he can't do so. Though King Ben did say I could stay as long as I wished, I'd rather not risk testing the agreements of the new King and a constituent so soon."

"Sweet idea, Steph. Don't you worry," Hermes said as he reached out a hand, pinky up. "I pinky swear my lips are sealed. The Big Guy won't hear it from me that you're back in town."

"I appreciate it, Hermes."

"Anytime doll, anytime."

For the second time that day, Persephone disappeared in a swirl of autumn leaves.

This time she reappeared in her barely used apartment.

Bumping into the small dining table she'd materialized next to, Persephone sniffed at the stale air, fumbling as she tried to find the light switch. She normally spent time on her mother's farm or Olympus that she only came to the apartment when she needed time to herself.

Eyes blinked furiously as Persephone waited for them to readjust to light. In her rush to the limo, to Mal, she had forgotten to grab her sunglasses. She'd forgotten everything, really. Nothing was more important than her children. But now she was unprepared and unsure of how long she'd stay, even though she'd need to be in Auradon in less than a couple months anyways.

'Good thing I keep essentially a second complete wardrobe here…I should have a backup pair of sunglasses somewhere.'

After a brief cough, she relished in the feeling of channeling more magic, as always when leaving the Barrier, as she waved her hands to revive her neglected plants. Almost immediately the room brightened and the air cleared, a refreshing smell of amaryllis and hydrangeas filling the space instead of the initial staleness as they bloomed.

Persephone hesitated at the sliding doors to the balcony, pushing back the curtains to glance at her plant boxes set against the ocean view. There, the Isle sat in the distance, still covered in clouds. The temptation was strong to bring back the plants slumbering outside. Her delphiniums and forget me nots…Not to mention her narcissus and chionodoxa. But it was still Winter and there was no need to make passerby suspicious. The plants were both symbolic and seasonal. She had been careful to have the apartment kept under a false name. Not even her mother could be suspicious of flowers known to bloom with the melting snow and coming Spring. It allowed for the Goddess to ditch Demeter's farms instead of staying throughout her time in Auradon.

With a sigh, she let the curtain drop, turning instead towards one of the windows and pulling up the blinds to crack it slightly open, letting the rest of the dusty air billow out. Moving back to towards the kitchenette she had originally appeared next to, she popped down the small built-in table, revealing her laptop.

Daintily tucking her feet beneath her as she brought the computer over to the sofa ands at, Persephone debated constructing an email off to King Ben, simultaneously prodding the link to Mal.

'I swear if she doesn't have it open already…'

Hi mom. Mal's voice was still bashful, but less worn compared to the distraught teen she had been hours earlier. What's up?

I was going to email Pri-King Ben, but figured this might be a good time to check in. Firstly, to see if you'd turn on your link like I'd ask, as well as that I would prefer if you could just discuss the plan with him for me rather than having to wait by my computer for a reply.

Oh, sure! He's with me now. What did you want to ask?

While I do have an apartment in Auradon, I believe there's guest quarters at the school? It would be much easier if I could stay on campus, rather than having to get clearance to teleport in every time. That way you and Hadie could come see me anytime you wanted instead of having to wait to reach out to me.

Makes sense. Give me a couple minutes and I'll ask.

Thank you, dear.

Ben says he'll get one approved and ready for you, but a room wouldn't be ready for you till tomorrow.

That's fine. I want to return to the Isle tonight just to get things ready for my stay, if that's possible. I'll deal with Zeus another day, but I don't want to risk him interfering until King Ben officializes my early leave and I still haven't seen Hadie.

As Persephone waited for a reply, she quickly printed a list of what she would need to bring back. Mostly superfluous things, such as the IDs mortals often required, her cellular phone. Items she always kept with her in case someone tried to steal them while she was away.

Mom? Ben says he can schedule the limo to take you when you want. Whether that's after you see Hadie or later into the night. Though I don't know how comfortable dad would want you coming back through the Docks so late, not to even mention how unsafe that would be for the driver. Then for coming back, he could can organize that for tomorrow whenever you want as well.

Yes, not too late is probably wise. It's only about half past four in the afternoon now, when is dinner scheduled for the students?

At about five.

Dusk is a little after six, I suppose that gives me about an hour to visit with your brother. Have the limo ready at a quarter to six and I'll take dinner with Hadie and hang around still if you need me before I leave for the night.

Sounds good. I'll let Ben know. We're still out with friends at the picnic, but I'll definitely see you the moment you come back!

I'll teleport back to the school, could you have him let Fairy Godmother know I'm coming? And you wouldn't happen to know where I could find your brother in case he's moved since Uma mentioned his possible whereabouts.

He's letting Fairy G know now. And oh Gods, he's always near the library right before dinner. I'd check there first.

You say that as if it's a bad thing, dear, Persephone fondly shook her head.

Eh, means I at least have an easy time of keeping an eye on him. Plus, a lot of my friends have siblings that hang around him too, so we just collectively watch out for the younger ones if someone else isn't able to.

I'm glad you're all looking out for each other.

Ruthless yet Loyal will always be our motto, mom. Anyways, we'll get that set up for you, but I gotta go. Harry just challenged some of the R.O.A.R guys to a sparring mini tournament and I totally need to get on this! Love you!

Love you too, Mal, Persephone couldn't help but laugh, knowing that while her daughter would still need some time finding her feet again, her friends would be there to catch her. Have fun.

With the link off, but certainly not muted, Persephone stood from her seat and teleported back to the school, finding herself in the receiving room that had been designated for Family Day.

"Lady Persephone! King Ben had just informed me to expect your arrival," Fairy Godmother bustled into the room, her usual cheery self, smiling a greeting.

"Yes, I wanted to visit my son, possibly stay for dinner if that's alright before I return to the Isle for the night," nodded Persephone, following the fae Headmistress out of the room and down the halls. "Oh, and if at all possible, a copy of his and Malinda's grades. My daughter was supposed to keep us updated, but has been neglecting that request."

"Of course, of course. I can get those transcripts easily for you. I can also have the kitchen arrange either a room, or you and young Prince Hadie could take the meal in his dorm, or, you may join all the students in the cafeteria if you so desire. And I'm sorry that we couldn't have a room ready for you by tonight, but we usually need at least 48 hours' notice."

"I'll let my son decide, I have no qualms should he wish to eat with his friends. And there's no need to apologize, I know this was all last minute."

"No trouble at all, I understand this was a family emergency," Fairy Godmother said pensively as they entered a small golden gilded door, nodding briefly at a redhaired woman with glasses. "Here we are. Lady Persephone, this is Lady Sylvia Goof, our Librarian. According to the grapevine, she sees Prince Hadie at least once a day and will know exactly where you can find him at this time. I'll be off if you don't mind, a meeting to get to, you understand. Do let the kitchens know if you decide to take your meal elsewhere if not the cafeteria, my Lady."

Fairy Godmother departed, leaving the two women to their own devices.

"Lady Goof," greeted Persephone.

"Just Sylvia is fine, Lady Persephone," the woman lazy waved a hand. "My husband may be knighted, but we have no care for the frivolities."

"Sylvia then. Thank you for looking after my son, I hope he hasn't been too much of a handful under your watch."

"On his own, he's been fine," Sylvia smirked. "Young Mr. Hook tends to come around and cause trouble for the poor lad, not bullying though, I have zero tolerance for that."

"I can only imagine, and you don't need to worry about Harry. Hadie grew up with him, they're practically brothers."

"That's a relief. It's just that Mr. Hook doesn't use the library, at least not the way it is intended, so I have not much knowledge of him."

"It's quite alright, thank you for the concern though. Now, do you know where my son has gotten off to? I'm afraid my time is limited and I would like to spend some time with him before I must leave once more."

"Oh, yes, yes, if you'd please follow me," Sylvia said, quickly moving around the desk she had been standing behind, stamping bookplates. "He's actually not here at this time, left not too long ago, but I know he's close by. He likes to louse about in the courtyard just outside the main doors."

"He wouldn't happen to have a hammock or trees to climb out there, would he?" smiled Persephone, obviously amused.

"He asked once if he could have a hammock out there. I believe Fairy Godmother said he may as long as he removes it once he's done. Hasn't done it yet though, I think he's waiting for warmer weather so he could bask in the sun. Otherwise yes, I often find him or some of the others up in the trees," Sylvia answered, leading the pair out the main double doors and through a short, large foyer where Persephone could see a glass door leading out to what must be the courtyard. "And there he is, in a tree as you suspected."

True to form, Hadie was in the tallest possible tree in the courtyard he could find, with Herkie hanging on a lower branch, gently shaking the tree with his weight by bouncing around. Several other children she had yet to personally meet were milling around, playing a card game it seemed at one of the few tables.

Sylvia pushed the door open, holding it for the Goddess.

"Hadie?" Sylvia called out. "There's a visitor here looking for you."

Persephone smiled brightly as her son carefully swung himself down from the tree. She did raise a single brow in some concern at Hadie's warry expression, though she dismissed it as Isle suspicion.

"Mom?" Hadie gasped in surprise, running forward. Persephone moved forward as well, opening her arms wide to clamp her son into a viscious hug, her heart panging slightly as she found him no longer fitting in what had been a smaller mold. He'd grown again.

"Why are you here early? Not that I'm complaining, just pleasantly confused!" Hadie clutched tightly to his mom's coat as he looked up at her. Though there was a part of him that knew. Just slightly too afraid to ask.

For the last hour, the occasional spikes of stress that Mal couldn't even ultimately hide from him, had finally dissipated.

Persephone sighed and kept Hadie entrapped in her arms, kissing the top of his head. She was pleasantly surprised to not find him pull away in embarrassment in front of his Auradon friends as he would on the Isle in front of Celia or others.

"Uma convinced King Ben to invite me off the Isle, to help figure out what's been going on with Mali," she whispered. "We routed out the cause, but it's best if we discuss that in private. I wanted to see you before I head back to the Isle for the night."

"Wait, for the night?" Hadie asked, tilting his head.

His mother smiled and ruffled his hair affectionately. "Yes, King Ben is letting me come off the Isle early so that you and Mal aren't without a parent in your corner anymore. I just need to head back to gather my things. I'll be back tomorrow."

"Really?" Hadie gushed. "That's great! I've really missed you, and I know Mali has too!"

"And I've missed you my darling," Persephone nuzzled her nose into Hadie's surprisingly soft hair, marveling at no matter how much he changed outwardly, he was still her happy-go-lucky baby boy. "Now, I have about an hour or so, so I thought I'd stick around to have dinner with you before I leave. The Headmistress said to let the kitchen know if you'd like to eat in your room or a private room, though I don't mind if we stay with your friends and eat in the cafeteria either. Mal is off with her own friends, so she won't be joining us."

Hadie stepped back and glanced over his shoulder towards his friends. "I should at least introduce you, but, um, I'd like to hog you for myself if that's okay. We can eat in my dorm! I'd love to show you some of the things I've been working on."

"I'm perfectly happy to have it be just the two of us," Persephone turned to Sylvia who still stood nearby. "Sylvia, thank you for leading me to my son, but if you don' t mind me asking another favor…?"

"Not at all Lady Persephone, I'd be happy to help! I'll let the kitchens know right away." The librarian scurried away, back towards the library, likely to use the phone Persephone had seen sitting at the desk.

"Thank you!" Persephone shouted out over her shoulder after the librarian, who waved distractedly back as they reentered the library.

"Come on, mom!" Hadie tugged at her sleeve, steering her towards his bemused friends. "Guys, I'd like you to meet my mother! Lady Persephone, Goddess of Spring and Vegetation, Queen of the Underworld, only the best mom goddess out there, not to brag, yadda yadda yadda."

"Hadie!" scolded Persephone, though she couldn't help but smile. His friends were chortling, showing no offense was taken.

"Whaaat?" he whined, also smiling. "If we end up at a formal event, I'll do it properly, mom! None of my friends care anyways."

Persephone sighed, still smiling softly as all of the preteens lined up, bowing or curtseying in turn as they were introduced. "It's nice to meet you all, finally. My son has told me so much about all of you."

"Not a word of what he says is true, Aunt Persephone!" Herkie stepped forward, grinning wryly at his younger cousin. "Hadie is a chronic liar behind the façade!"

"Oh, so you've not been loyal and kind from the moment you met?" Persephone smirked, far too used to similar antics from her immediate family.

The other children laughed as Herkie blustered, blushing awkwardly at his Aunt's quick rebuttle.

"Sorry, Herkie, I'm an old hat at the game. I don't think I would've stuck around if I couldn't keep up with my husband. Otherwise, thank you. All of you, for being there for Hadie as he adjusted to Auradon. I can't imagine it was easy for him without myself or his other friends and family still stuck on the Isle."

"Mooom," Hadie blushed as his mom praised his friends, but the other children just grinned, taking the compliments in stride.

"He's only been a mild pest, Lady Persephone, we're otherwise happy to have him," Ashaki added. "We should head to dinner ourselves, but it's nice to finally meet you!"

"And all of you as well, far be it from me to keep you from your meals," Persephone returned, dismissing the children who quickly ushered through the garden towards what she imagined to be the direction of the cafeteria. "Shall we, Hadie?"

Hadie threaded his fingers through his mother's offered hand, and grasped it tightly, having missed the feeling of holding her hand as they walked around the safe zones of the Isle.

"Let's," a mischievous twinkle flashed in the Godling's eyes as he led Persephone down the very same path that Akiho had taken him on Hadie's very first day in Auradon.

---

The tinkling of laughter filled the dorm room as silverware clinked upon plates as it cut and pierced a dinner set for two. A small table had been placed in the dorm Hadie shared with Jay and Harry, the two older boys were still off at the surprise picnic for Mal, though there would be plenty time to visit when Persephone returned once more.

"I should ask before I have to go, is there anything you'd like me to bring back with me from the Isle, dear?" asked Persephone, placing her knife and fork down.

Hadie paused, mulling the question over in his head.

"Could…could you bring back my guitar?" blurted Hadie, eyes wide in realization. "Oh, and my personal, favorite books from my bedside! Borrowing from the library is great, but I have to keep them pristine or Sylvia gets cranky."

"Absolutely, sweetheart," replied Persephone. "Does the school have what you need to fix it?"

"Oh, um. I'll have to look up what I need, but I imagine so?"

"Well, I'll bring it either way, we can go to a shop if need be and have them do it for you."

"There are places that will do that?" Hadie hesitated, his fork partway to his mouth. He put it down at his mom's own questioning look. "It's just that, I thought broken stuff just got thrown away, and the Isle is the same. If it's broken, it's broken down even more to scrap. If Auradon has the ability to fix things for themselves, why did they even throw away things in the first place that they didn't have to?"

"They don't exactly have a 'waste not, want not' mentality in Auradon, sadly," Persephone carefully explained. "There is an abundance of resources, money or otherwise, thanks to the multitude of allies joining under the Auradon umbrella. Little is needed to be imported. Even some of what comes from my mother's farms are discounted since that's part of the Olympus-Auradon agreement, despite the farms still being in Greece and other portions throughout the Mediterranean."

"So, it really was just corruption and neglect in the end," Hadie sorrowfully looked down at his plate. "Akiho and Emir said they had been doing food drives, but I guess it came down to former King Beast forgetting the Isle was his responsibility and then no one keeping track of the Barge discrepencies. Better late than never I suppose. Even if hundreds of kids are dead because of them."

Persephone sighed. Hades and herself had always suspected Mal and Hadie could sense death upon the Isle, but neither child openly spoke about what they inherently knew. Certainly not by waltzing down into the Underworld proper and checking the reports. Hades kept a log that auto recorded when someone entered, ensuring he knew exactly when and if his kids entered let alone anyone else, should he have decided to check those logs at the end of a day. She slid a hand under Hadie's chin and lifted his face to look at her.

"What matters is that it's finally being dealt with. The Isle has a hospital now, with proper food. There's still far more to go, like properly living spaces or plumbing, not to mention getting other children who never belonged there off that accursed Isle, but while we won't forget those who were lost by the blind eye of Auradon, it is time to embrace this future."

They shared a somber smile, trying not to recall several either had known to fall to the monstrous lifestyle of the Isle, whether through starvation or violence.

"Is there anything else besides your guitar and a few books?" Persephone asked, returning to her earlier question and changing the subject as she stood. The time to leave was almost upon her.

"No, I think that's it, mom," Hadie smiled meekly. "Apart from school, I think I might focus on getting used to the guitar again in my free time. The school ones are okay, but they just seem to be missing the bass resonation that mine has."

"If you say so, you and your father know far more about guitars than I do," commented Persephone, though she turned as she picked up her peacoat, giving a knowing stare at her son. Something was bothering him and he was unsure how to broach the subject.

'Can't be his grades, I snuck a look at the folder while he was distracted with the arrival of food and the only grade not an A was Social Studies. And they haven't even set trimester finals!'

"Come now, darling, I promise not to get angry, no matter what may be bothering you."

"Well, I think being disappointed with me would hurt more, you're rarely ever angry, mom," Hadie awkwardly scuffed his foot at the floor, rubbing the back of his neck as he avoided looking at her.

"Oh, Hadie, what's wrong?" Persephone tied the belt of her coat closed and embraced her son in what she hoped was comforting hug.

"It's just…I," Hadie returned the hug, sniffling slightly. "I tried getting Mal to talk last week, but we…well, we ended up getting into a fight, and we haven't talked since."

'Well, that explains why Mal was avoiding the subject when I asked about Hadie earlier,' thought Persephone, stiffening at Hadie explanation.

"Are you mad, now?" her son's voice was muffled by her coat, the Goddess' just barely making out the hesitant words.

"No, of course not. I'm not even disappointed," Persephone said, adjusting their stance so her hands could rest lightly on either side of Hadie's disbelieving face. "Sibling fights happen, okay? Just don't let it become a grudge like it has with your father and his brother's."

"Never!" Hadie's face became determined, though his next words were quiet again, slowly building as he became more passionate. "That's why I want my guitar. I was thinking, well, maybe, I could write a sort of apology song or something? I dunno. The way it went down, I feel like Mal should apologize to me first, but I miss her, and if you helped getting her back to her normal self, I'd rather apologize first and let it be bygones so we can hang out like normal again!"

"A good start as any. I'm sure she'll apologize too, but it shouldn't matter who says it first in this situation. Mal was hurting and may have lashed out, or maybe you misunderstood something, I wasn't there. So, it's up to you two to make amends. I simply know she misses you too."

"She does?"

"Yes, she does," Persephone said with a tender smile. "She kept reminding me to see you before I left, even said I couldn't smite people just so I wouldn't be stuck on the Isle to leave you on your lonesome."

"Really? Even if they deserved to be smote?"

"Even then," replied Persephone, kissing the top of Hadie's head before standing back up and preparing to teleport for the last time that day. "Unfortunately, I have to be going now, dear, but I'll be back tomorrow, okay?"

"Missing you already!"

"I miss you too, my little torch," smile Persephone, leaves began to swirl. "I'll see you soon."

---

It was just past the edge of dusk when Persephone returned to the Isle once more. Hades stood in the doorway to the den, having waited to greet her. He encircled her with his arms and lead her to the couch, the exhausted Goddess sinking into him as they sat together.

"Never had I imagined this. That Mal was trying to put up with suffering all alone," Persephone began to weep, the stress of the day finally fading away.

"None of us did. I can't believe all of this has been going on and she didn't even try to talk to anyone. Or that anyone tried to talk to her earlier!" Hades turned to recline against the arm of the sofa, adjusting so he could move his wife onto his lap and kick up his legs on to the couch. Persephone put up no fight as she snuggled into his chest and lay along him, using Hades' shirt to dab her tears away and sigh as she finally relaxed.

"I…I spoke with Hadie earlier. I guess Uma and he and a few others had tried to, only for Mal to completely bottle up and avoid them. Or at least the topic entirely."

"I'm sensing a 'but' with your hesitation."

"When I saw Hadie before I came back, he admitted to me that he and Mal got into a fight."

"What?!" Hades exclaimed, his head turning down to look at Persephone. "When?"

"I guess about a week ago or so, Hadie tried to do what Uma did today. With far less success."

"I guess Mal's not the only one keeping secrets then," the God grumbled. "He didn't mention anything when we spoke with him the last weekend."

"I know," sighed the Goddess. "I know it's only been a week, but I guess they haven't spoken since. Mal didn't say anything when I spoke to her earlier, and she's the one who told me to at least visit Hadie, so I don't imagine there's any hard feelings."

"Just a lot of worry."

"Yeah…"

They fell into a sullen silence as they took comfort in each other's presence. The parents took solace in the revelation that their daughter's stressed emotions were no longer pounding over the mind link. That after today, they finally knew what had been going on and that Mal was safe again. That Ben was willing to let Persephone off the Isle to help Mal recover.

It didn't matter that they'd be separated sooner. Their children came first.

After a few more minutes, Persephone pulled herself upward towards Hades' shoulder and gently kissed his cheek, her words soft.

"Not that I mind admitting you're right, but…I wish you hadn't been."

"Hey, this isn't what I had in mind either, babe. I knew there were likely going to be prejudice people, but to hurt Mal like this…I didn't predict this at all."

"And if anyone tries to continue Leah's or Natalie's crap, we'll make an example out of them," Persephone growled. "A public one instead of waiting till death or the subtle curse I put on Natalie. I know Mal doesn't want me being stuck on the Isle too, but there are ways to make someone suffer legally. No one harms our children."

"Heh, just make sure to run any plans by me. We can work together to make them as perfect as possible."

Persephone softly smiled and stretched to kiss the edge of his jaw. "Speaking of plans…A few things actually. King Ben has offered me a room to stay on campus to stay close to Mal and Hadie instead of staying at my apartment."

"When you get back? That'll be helpful."

"No, um," Perspehone paused. "Per Mal's request, Ben is allowing me extended early leave from the Isle. I leave again tomorrow."

"What?" Hades sat up, Persephone squeaking as she was abruptly shoved upright. "I guess…I mean, that's good considering what happened, I definitely feel more comfortable with you being there for either Mal or Hadie as needed…"

"But part of you still wants to be a little selfish because you just found out tonight may be our last night together for until next Fall?"

"Well…yes," Hades grimaced, closing his eyes as Persephone placed a hand on his cheek. "I—"

He stopped and sighed. Pulling Persephone close and lying his head into the crook of her neck, he tiredly spoke again.

"I don't regret trying to overthrow Zeus. I'm only one of several who have succeeded, and twenty to thirty years is about how long he likes to punish usurpers. But…with all that's happened, I'm having these lessons stabbed into me over and over that maybe…maybe things would be different if I hadn't gone after Hercules. Maybe I'd be off by now if I hadn't." Hades rambled, his voice muffled as Persephone held onto him, running a free hand through his hair. "I've felt what I did to Zeus when Mal was taken from us. The constant suffering my nephew felt from growing up with a relatively poor family, unable to keep our kids from a night of no food. That persistent nagging in the back of my mind that I abandoned Mal when I let her stay with Maleficent until she approached me on her own. There are so many parallels I can see now, how Zeus and Hera had to sit back and watch their son grow up…We at least have the luxury of knowing Mal is immortal now. Now I'm going to miss Hadie grow up too, unable to help protect our kids while they're supposed to be safe in Auradon. And you're stuck between this entire mess I've made, having missed half their lives to begin with." His voice cracked as he rambled, growing quieter and quieter. "Why are you even with me?"

Persephone gripped tightly at his scalp, biting her lip as she tried not to cry, instead allowing her normally bottled-up husband let his emotions free. Mal had to get her tendencies from somewhere, and both she and her father needed to have those moments to let it out. Today was clearly the breaking point for both. She felt his hands snake around her waist and hold her tighter before suddenly loosening.

"Seriously, Persephone," Hades pulled away from their embrace and stood, his posture sullen as he made his way out of the Den. "This hurts as it is. But…I think it would be best if you stayed in Auradon until Mal and Hadie are grown. None of you deserve to be here."

"Αιδονευς, don't you dare walk away from me!" Persephone screamed after him, lip wavering as she rushed into the hallway after him. She slammed the bedroom door open with her hip before he had the chance to fully close it.

"Gah, Steph!" Hades hissed as her nails dug into his arms, holding him in place.

"I love you!" She scolded, shaking him until his eyes met hers. "For all your mistakes and flaws, you are mine. Just like I am yours. I chose you, I chose to stay, despite everything that stood in our way, despite everything that has happened to us! I. Am. Not. Going anywhere, no matter how much you push me away!"

Her final shake caused them to lose balance, forcing Hades to twist so that they both fell onto the bed instead of in a heap on the floor.

"Persephone…" Hades brushed the hair out of her face, running his thumb across her cheek to wipe away the stream of tears. His words were stopped as Persephone shoved him away, leaving the God confused until he found himself pinned beneath the Goddess as she straddled him.

"Listen to me, Hades," growled Persephone, gripping the collar of his shirt. "You are being an idiot! Did I not adopt Mal despite her not being born of me? Did I not obliterate a damned nymph that had pulled your eye and flirted with you? For every wrong you've done against me, I have stuck around and spun it to something that has bonded us even stronger! Were we not in this same position when you cheated on me with Maleficent? And instead of calling quits, we worked through it! And now we have two beautiful children! If you think for one second that I am going to let you force me away, to have myself and our children rarely get the chance to see you again, to not see them grow up? Then you have another thing coming!"

Persephone shoved at his chest, jumping off the bed in a huff.

"I appreciate you opening up to me," she said, crossing her arms as she forlornly eyed Hades who still lay stunned on the bed. "You need to remember that we made an oath on the Styx when we married. Olympian expectations of 'oh, it's okay for a God to be unfaithful' is stupid, and if you ever do it again, I will follow through with your fear and turn you into a sprig of mint and never look back! In the meantime, I will love you until the end of time. I will love you when our children's grandchildren are grown, so long as you are mine as I am yours.

"Now." she sighed as she sat next to Hades, the God sitting up next to her, gathering her into his arms once more, though with some hesitancy. "Now, there are still discussion to be had. There was more to what I wanted to say earlier. That I'll be returning to Auradon early, to watch over our children. But King Ben, after I get around to lashing out on Zeus for his idiocy which will then reveal my presence of being off the Isle, will then give the order, that so long as Mal wishes it, I can go between the Isle and Auradon freely. Zeus cannot argue against this because, as his argument has been for the last 16 years that we asked for his help, the Isle is not his jurisdiction even if we are Gods who ask for his assistance. So, only Ben can direct us."

Hades sat silently in awe as his wife spoke. His heart thumped as it filled hope. Both at Persephone's declaration of love that harkened back to a time they met before Hercules had even been born, and at the chance that even if he never got off the Isle, the future would be easier for his wife and kids.

"Smart," he finally spoke. "Using his words against him."

She rested a hand on his cheek. "I'm hoping Ben will be able to order Zeus to allow me to use the Mirror-Portal freely, but in the meantime, I'll have to use the limo until I reveal myself. I'm not leaving you alone, Hades. And Mal and Hadie are desperate to see you again."

They touched foreheads, Hades gently laying his wife back on the bed as Persephone continued to whisper into his ear.

"We'll not be apart forever. No matter the distance, it's forever. Together."

---

The next morning, Persephone gathered the few things she would need to take back to Auradon. The relief she felt when Mal had contacted her over the mind link for the second day in a row stayed with the mother of two as she prepared. The limo would arrive shortly.

King Ben and Fairy Godmother would meet the Goddess and show her the direction to the rooms she would be staying at, in the guest quarters of the school. At least until Cotillion was over, so she could stay close to both Mal and Hadie before she had to attend to her Olympian duties.

"Let's not forget this."

Persephone turned to Hades, the God holding a case with a certain blue guitar.

"Thank you," murmured Persephone as she moved to take it. She paused as Hades' grip refused to budge. "Very funny, Hades, I need to—"

"You're out of your mind if you're carrying all this to the limo by yourself," Hades said, shaking his head. "Only in Auradon for one day and you've already forgotten Isle precautions?"

"Oh, right," sighed Persephone, dropping her hands. "Then how do you expect me to—"

Hades snapped his fingers. Within moments, Pain, Panic and Virgil appeared and gathered up her things.

"Take this all up to the entrance, and wait there. We'll all walk out together; I just need to wrap things up down here."

"Yes, sir!" Pain and Panic saluted before dashing up towards the gated doors, Virgil dutifully following behind them.

"Wait, where are you going?" Persephone asked as she confusedly trailed after Hades. She watched as Hades popped open the small fridge and took out a rather large box.

"Oh of course you did," Persephone fondly shook her head as she peeked in to see the contents. "You made a dish for each of the children? Hades, you need food here more than they need all of this."

"Hey, they clearly need a taste of home, I'll spoil them if I want," Hades shrugged as he tucked the box under his arm and hoisted the guitar case across his shoulders, bumping the door close with his hip. "Besides, you said Beastie Jr was going to allow you to go back and forth even without the portal so you can circumvent my idiot brother's permission."

"I wish none of this was necessary," Persephone sighed, folding her arms. "That…that we didn't even have to worry about being separated from our children. Or each other."

He tucked his one free arm around her waist, holding Persephone close as he kissed her gently on the forehead. "We'll figure something out," he whispered. "I'll miss you, but our kids come first."

Leaning into him, Persephone nuzzled his cheek. "I'll miss you too, of course. You're absolutely right though, Mal and Hadie come first now."

"Take care of them," Hades said, releasing his grip on her hip. Sighing, Persephone made to move away.

"Eep!" squeaked Persephone, as Hades' now free hand captured her by the chin, tilting her head towards him. Her eyes closed as he pressed a searing kiss upon her lips.

"You know I will," she finally managed to say as they reluctantly parted.

"We should get you out there," Hades sighed.

"I suppose you're right," she said, sighing as well.

It was a rare sight, to see both God and Goddess walking together as they emerged from the Underworld home and out onto the Docks. Normally it occurred after a restaurant shift, which was incredibly rare to have both too, as Persephone took care of the Underworld in Hades' absence. Add the odd trio following their King and Queen, no one was sure what to think.

As the pair strolled towards the jetty, where the limo was already waiting, Persephone's arm tucked neatly around Hades', nearby residents bustled out of the way. Only one was idiotic enough to be in the way as his usual brain was off manning Hades' restaurant. That and the dumbest person on the Isle was next to Hook. Hades hoped Gaston wasn't becoming contagious.

"Hades!" Hook emerged from his booth, before giving a light bow. "And Lady Persephone."

"You two better not be drunk already. It's disgraceful," sneered Hades. "Oi! Load the car while I chat with my…associates."

The two imps and Virgil rushed off towards the limo, obviously eager to avoid whatever was happening. The limo driver, the same as yesterday's that introduced himself as Dean, emerged from the car and opened the trunk to be loaded.

"I'll drink when I want! A man should be able to hold his alcohol after all!" Gaston waved airily, still sipping at entire bottle of…

"You're drinking cooking sherry," Hades deadpanned as he recognized the bottle. He had a few bottles himself, now that the Barge was properly stocked, he was experimenting more often. Since the ship didn't contain literal garbage anymore, alcohol was rarely found. It turned out the refuse had been a dumping ground for many of the crew members that didn't want to properly dispose of things.

"Bah! They might've fixed the food around these slums, but I was just fine hunting hyenas! Give me back real alcohol and I wouldn't have to drink this flowery, watered-down brandy!"

Persephone eyed Hades, the God immediately recognizing the signal that she was already done with this conversation.

"Well, as fascinating as your opinion is, I need to escort my wife to her ride."

"Actually, I was hoping you'd satisfy our curiosity on that," Hook said as the couple turned to leave. "It's not Spring. And your Lady had left and then returned and is now leaving again? Is this some new allowance? Or is Her Majesty finally realizing she is worth more?"

"It's a recent development that you have no need to concern yourself with," snapped Persephone, taking another step away. "I have no patience for the smell of your indiscretions nor any assumptions your tiny little minds may fantasize."

"You heard the Goddess," smirked Hades as he made to follow his wife. "It's none of your fucking business."

"Hades." The God in question quickly closed the distance between himself and Persephone, leaving the miffed duo of idiots behind. Though instead of finding himself in trouble, he noticed the slight curl of a smile on Persephone's lips. Handing the guitar to Virgil to put into the trunk, Hades moved to hold open the door for his wife to enter the limo.

"I wish I could take you with me," Persephone whispered as she took the bag of food from Hades.

"Maybe one day," Hades whispered back before pressing his lips firmly against hers one last time. "Don't be a stranger, wifey."

"Never."