This is it, folks. This IS it. Enjoy... or try to.
Love and War, Part 2
After the battle in Agrabah, the villain kids have been severely injured. After Genie dug them out of the rubble, Jasmine and Aladdin immediately sent them to a hospital and contacted King Ben. Ben and his friends arrived using Fairy God Mother's wand and attended to their injured friends and new allies.
"What's the damage?" Ben asked a doctor.
"Well, Evie has an injured leg, Jay's left arm simply needs to recover itself, Harley has a burn mark on her arm, Katherine has a fractured kneecap, Uri is still recovering from her concussion, Fernando's case with his spleen is pretty much the same as Jay's, and Garth's wound has been sealed, but he needs a long rest," reported the doctor.
"Thank you," said Ben. "May we see them?"
"Who am I to deny a king?" approved the doctor.
The five teenagers entered the medical room, where all seven villain kids are lying down, recovering.
"Hey, Ben," greeted Evie.
"I know we're not friends, but I feel bad for all you. Really," said Audrey sympathetically.
"Oh, sure, now that we almost died, you pity us," responded Katherine unkindly.
"I'm trying to be nice here," retorted Audrey.
"Guys, please. I'm not Sofia, but can you guys play nice?" pleaded Ben.
Audrey and Katherine kept their mouths closed.
"So, anything else that happened?" asked Lonnie.
"The sultan and his queen are hiding something. Must be something Mal did," said Fernando.
"I can't believe Mal would do all this," said Jane.
"Like killing your precious princess didn't already tell you that?" sassed Uri.
"I know, but this is all just too hard to swallow," said Jane.
"Mal's always been a hot-head," said Chad.
"But all this. This is not..." Jane couldn't find the right word.
"... Her," finished Lonnie.
"Yeah," said Jane. "She loves to hurt others, but she always feels a little bad about it."
"Please don't say 'bad.' Not at a time like this," said Audrey.
"Hey, where's Carlos?" asked Evie.
"He didn't want to come," said Ben.
"Not even to see his girlfriend?" teased Fernando.
"Don't make me get off this bed," warned Evie. She turns back to Ben and asked, "He feels guilty for not being there, is he?"
"From the look on his face, yes," answered Ben.
"Well, then take me back. I want to see him. He needs to know I'm alright," asked Evie.
"I strongly advise against that," said Ben. "You need to rest."
Luckily for Evie, Ben is standing next to her bed, which means he in arms-reach. Evie grabs Ben by the collar and tells him, "Without me, Carlos will lose himself. You've seen how he's been after he lost a friend. If he loses me, he can never forgive himself."
"He knows you're alive," said Ben.
"But he needs to 'see' me alive," said Evie.
The two looked at each other for a moment.
Mal, meanwhile, was returning to the Enchantress' temple. She was still recovering from their previous encounter, but Mal, embracing the darkness, no longer has regard for the lives of anyone she once called a friend. Just like before, she bursts through the door with her magic.
"What do you want?" asked a still weak Enchantress.
Mal destroys the Enchantress' life bubble and asks her, "The Leaf? Where do I find it?"
"And what makes you think that I would know?" asked the Enchantress.
"You mean you don't?" questioned Mal.
"I don't know everything," said the Enchantress.
"Then who does?" demanded Mal.
"Ben," answered the Enchantress.
Mal was shocked of the answer.
"If you want the Leaf, you're going to have to go through him," said the Enchantress.
Mal wasn't speaking.
"No, I can't do it," said Mal, refusing to look at the Enchantress.
"So you actually care about harming someone this time?" pointed out the Enchantress.
"Don't you go further," warned Mal.
"If you choose this path, I won't stop you," said the Enchantress. "But be sure this is the path your heart desires."
Mal, in rage, fires a dark energy blast at the Enchantress. She screams in pain before slipping back into unconsciousness.
"You get one last warning, Enchantress," warned Mal before leaving.
Back in Auradon Prep, everyone has returned from Agrabah. The villain kids were still recovering, but Ben chose for everyone to return because of Evie's demand. To see Carlos. Ben lets Evie rest in the living room while he gets Carlos. The king escorts Carlos the living room and kindly opens the door.
Carlos enters and saw Evie lying on the couch. Her leg was wrapped up but her eyes were still open, which is all Carlos was expecting to see.
"I'll leave you two alone," said Ben. Carlos enters the room and Ben closes the doors.
"Hey," greeted Evie.
"Hey," greeted Carlos.
"That doesn't look good," said Carlos, mentioning her leg.
"Don't worry. I've been through worse. I did almost die saving you, remember?" reminded Evie.
"Please don't remind me," responded Carlos.
Evie changes from a lying position to a sitting position and gestures for Carlos to sit with her. The white-haired tech prodigy didn't hesitate.
"So, what now?" asked Carlos.
"I don't know," said Evie. "At this rate, Mal will get what she wants."
"She won't succeed," said Carlos.
"How can you be so sure?" asked Evie.
"I've been keeping something," confessed Carlos. "Before Sofia... passed away... she told me of a way to defeat Mal."
"What did she say?" asked Evie.
"I prefer to tell everyone," said Carlos. "But right now, I'm just glad you're okay."
"You mean 'alive,' right?" questioned Evie.
"Obviously," replied Carlos.
"We would've stayed in the hospital longer, but I wanted you to see that I was fine," said Evie. "I know how much I mean to you."
"But that still doesn't lift my guilt," said Carlos.
"Carlos, look at me," said Evie, cupping her friend's face with her hand. "I'm here. I'm alive. There's no dead body. There's no funeral. Just me right here with you."
Carlos smiled.
"How's everyone?" he asked.
"Everyone is doing okay. Well, as okay as they might put it," said Evie. "Garth is still hurt pretty bad, but Uri is messed up in the head. Literally."
"How so?" asked Carlos.
"Mal gave her a concussion. When she woke up, she just started rambling random stuff," said Evie. "It was annoying, but it was pretty funny."
Carlos giggled a bit. "Maybe you can show me later."
"So, what about you? Besides wallowing in guilt, what have you been doing?" asked Evie.
"Wallowing in guilt is all I've been doing," said Carlos. "I did take Dude for a walk though. Thought it would take my mind off things... but it didn't."
"You're never going to forgive yourself, aren't you?" questioned Evie.
"No," said Carlos. "Unless the world gives me a reason to."
"If what Sofia told you can help us stop Mal, then maybe you can," said Evie.
"It's not easy," said Carlos. "You weren't the one who made a foolish mistake. You don't know how I feel."
"From what I've seen, you're more grieve-stricken than her family," said Evie.
"She was like a sister to me," said Carlos.
"Kinda like me?" asked Evie.
Carlos hesitated. He thinks back to his conversation with Mal about his feelings. He has been dancing his feelings around Evie for too long and it's emotionally hurting him. He has hidden it well, but ever since their first kiss at that very night, his feelings are all he's been thinking about. He has been lying to himself about feeling something for Jane, but he is through deceiving himself. He finally decided it's time he stops holding back and finally say what he should've said that night.
"Evie, I have to talk to you about something," started Carlos. "It's about Jane."
"Did you two finally hook up?" asked Evie.
"No," responded Carlos.
"Why not?" asked Evie.
"Because I don't love her," said Carlos.
"Isn't that the point of dating? To see if your feelings for someone can grow into true love?" questioned Evie.
"But that's the point. I don't have feelings for her. I never did," confessed Carlos.
"Then why did you try to work things out with her?" asked Evie.
"Because you wanted me to be happy," said Carlos, looking at her in the eye. "I appreciate what you're trying to do for me... but my heart belongs to someone else."
"Who?" asked Evie.
Carlos continued staring at Evie until he gives her the look. Evie knew who he meant.
"But Carlos... I'm... I mean... me and Doug are..." Evie was lost for words.
"Are you sure you are certain about what your heart desires?" asked Carlos.
Evie couldn't find the right answer. She looks away as her heart begins to beat out of control. She always knew she had feelings for Carlos, but she thought she was finally beginning to move on since she found someone else and she found him someone. It was this moment that made her realize she hasn't. She had been dancing her feelings around him since their first kiss and she could never get her mind off that one night.
"How long have you felt this way?" asked Evie.
"For as long as I can remember," said Carlos.
"Why didn't you tell me?" asked Evie.
"Because I thought you didn't feel the same way," answered Carlos.
"Why do you hold back every time we... you know?" asked Evie.
"I want you to be happy. If not with me, then why would I bother?" answered Carlos.
"You were willing to let me go so I could be with Doug?" wondered Evie.
"Yes," said Carlos.
Evie was speechless. Hearing Carlos confess that he was allowing himself to be miserable just so she could be with the person she believes she loves was making her blush and her heart could not beat any faster than she already feels it is.
"Are you sure about this?" wondered Evie.
"It's your choice," said Carlos.
"Why would it be my choice?" asked Evie.
"Isn't always up to the girl?" wondered Carlos.
"Mal was right. You're a scaredy-cat," said Evie suddenly.
Carlos looked offended, until Evie continued.
"But that's okay. Everyone's afraid of something," she said. "Or in your case, everything."
"You're ruining the moment," mentioned Carlos.
"I'm just saying. You can't be brave enough to confess your feelings?" responded Evie.
"Like I said before. I wanted you to be happy," said Carlos again.
"Carlos, no one in this world makes me happier than you," said Evie.
"But don't you mean that in a 'friendly' way?" questioned Carlos.
"How would you know if you never tell me?" pointed out Evie.
Carlos stayed silent for a moment. He has heard those words before. From Mal and Sofia.
"Just like Mal keeps telling me. I'm a coward, a scaredy-cat," said Carlos.
"Do you like me or not?" asked Evie, wanting a straight answer.
Carlos wanted to say those three simple words, but still hesitated. Instead, he slowly leans in and kisses Evie on the lips. Evie was shocked, but closes her eyes and puts her hand on his cheek, pulling him closer. The two ended the kiss and looked at each other in the eye.
"You actually made the move," mentioned Evie.
"Surprised?" asked Carlos.
"Of course," answered Evie.
The two stared at each other for a little while until they leaned in for another kiss. This time, they kissed with so much passion that they don't want it to end. It, however, ended when a nurse comes in through the door. The nurse felt awkward about ruining their moment.
"I'm sorry. I'll leave," apologized the nurse and left the room, but not before closing the doors.
"That was awkward," mentioned Carlos.
"It certainly was," agreed Evie.
"Well, get some rest," said Carlos. He gets up and helps Evie lie down. "We'll talk about dealing with Mal later."
As Carlos left the room, Evie's mind was caught on what just happened. Carlos actually confessed that he had feelings for her. He may have expressed through the kiss instead of words, but she does remember a saying. "Actions speak louder than words." She's having a hard time believing this is actually happening. She feels like this is all just a dream, but her heartbeat tells her that it's real.
Meanwhile, Jay was in the Tourney Field with Chad, testing his arm, but every time he swings, his arm aches.
"Maybe you should take it easy," suggested Chad. "Get some rest."
"Hey, in case you haven't noticed. Mal is winning and we all need to bring our A-game," said Jay.
"If you keep pushing yourself, that arm might need more than self-healing," said Chad.
"Listen to him, hero," said Audrey, who just happened to walk by.
"What are you doing here?" asked Jay.
"Worried about you," said Audrey.
"Um, hey, I just remembered. I promised Lonnie I'd help her... decorate her apartment for Valentine's Day," lied Chad. "Well, see ya." He left, leaving the ex-thief and the daughter of Sleeping Beauty alone.
"Put down the stick and sit with me," ordered Audrey.
The two sat on the bleachers and engage in another conversation.
"Why are you so bent on getting back into shape?" asked Audrey.
"Auradon won't survive as long as Mal is evil, but since she's not in the mood for talking, we have to use force," said Jay.
"This is more than just about Mal, isn't it?" suspected Audrey. "I think your problem is you just want to be a hero."
"Not true. I care about Mal," defended Jay.
"I know you do, but that doesn't hide what else you're trying to accomplish," said Audrey.
"I just feel so humiliated after what happened in Agrabah," confessed Jay.
"So you don't just want to 'a' hero. You want to be 'the' hero?" guessed Audrey.
"Yes," admitted Jay with a soft tone.
"I know this is going to sound weird coming from me," started Audrey. "Being a hero isn't about reward or recognition, it's about..."
"... protecting those you care about," finished Jay. "You once told me that being willing to anything to protect Auradon was enough to be a hero."
"Then stop trying to be the hero, and start being 'a' hero," said Audrey.
"Now I just feel silly," said Jay.
"You were beaten by a girl. Don't you already feel silly?" responded Audrey.
"Mal isn't just a girl. She's the daughter of Maleficent," defended Jay. "She can break your arm before you can even blink."
Audrey blinked, then smiled in amusement.
"That wouldn't be funny if she was here," said Jay.
"She and I have been at each other's necks since day one. I'm not scared of this evil Mal," said Audrey.
"I suppose I can't change that," said Jay.
"Now, as your girl, I am asking you to go back to your room and rest that arm," ordered Audrey.
"Did you just say, 'your girl,' as in 'my' girl?" questioned Jay, surprised.
"I think I did," said Audrey.
The two exchanged smiles and it was clear that their conversation was about to change the focus from Jay's arm to the possibility of starting a relationship.
In one of Auradon's hospitals, Ben visits the other villain kids, wanting to see the progress of their recovery.
"Hi, Ben," greeted Harley.
"Good afternoon, Harley," greeted Ben formally. "I came here to see how you're all doing."
"We're still in pain, if you hadn't noticed," sassed Katherine, gesturing to her knee.
"What pain? I don't feel anything," rambled Uri, still crazy from the concussion, before fainting back to sleep.
"So, are we still invited to your heroes kids school?" asked Fernando.
"Evie did tell you that I would whether you win or lose," said Ben. "Like I said, I always keep my promises. As a king or as a person." Ben turns his attention to Garth, still asleep. He notices the patch on his side, the spot where Mal stabbed him with his own dagger. "Is he gonna be okay?"
"He's hurt pretty bad, your highness, but the doctor said he'll be fine," answered Katie.
"That sounds like sympathy," mentioned Ben.
"Don't get used to it, your kingliness," mocked Katie.
"Hey, Harley, how can you be hooked to that heroes school?" asked Fernando.
"I've only been attending the school for barely a month," said Harley. "Ben's rehabilitation program is the one that helped me change."
"You got lessons about being good in prison?" questioned Katie.
"At first, they irritated me, but when I first met Grand Pabbie, I started to grow into the lessons," said Harley.
"Grand Pabbie? The king of the rock trolls?" questioned Katie.
"U-huh," confirmed Harley. "He's a very wise... creature. His lessons mostly involve love, and they really helped."
"Don't tell me you got yourself a boyfriend because of those lessons?" said Fernando.
A nurse opens the door and lets in Nathaniel, who was holding a bouquet of flowers.
"Excuse me, Miss Harley. You have a visitor," said the nurse.
"How are you feeling, milady?" started Nathaniel.
"My arm still hurts, but I'm doing fine," answered Harley.
"Good to know." Nathaniel gives her the bouquet. "These are for you."
"Thank you," replied Harley. She sniffs the flowers and lets out a sigh of delight. "I'm kinda surprised Sofia turned you down."
"Well, her choice," pointed out Nathaniel.
"So this is your boyfriend?" asked Katie.
"You can say that," answered Harley as she and Nathaniel exchanged loving glances.
"Did you just look for the first pretty girl you run into after Sofia died?" asked Ben.
"No, Ben!" reacted an offended Nathaniel.
"He didn't make the first move. I did," confessed Harley. "And that was two weeks ago, before Sofia's... you know."
"The girl makes the move and you jump at it?" questioned a confused Ben.
"I was surprised myself at first, but I just went with it," said Nathaniel.
"When was your first date?" asked Ben.
"Three days after we met, I asked her out to my parents' restaurant," answered Nathaniel.
"It was great," said Harley.
Harley and Nathaniel stared at each other again.
"If you two are going to make out, can it wait until Harley's cleared to go?" asked Katherine in disgust.
"If that's what you wish," said Nathaniel with little sarcasm. "I think I should go. I prefer we spend time without any 'discomfort," he said, looking at Katherine saying the last word.
"Don't wait up for me," said Harley.
Nathaniel kisses Harley's hand before leaving the room.
"He's such a charmer, isn't he?" said Harley dreamily. Katherine lets out a silent "ew."
Hours later, Ben returns home after his hospital visit. He was immediately approached by Mrs. Potts.
"Your majesty, we have a situation," she started.
"What's the problem?" asked Ben.
"The master's bedroom is locked, your parents are inside, and we found this." Mrs. Potts shows Ben a note. It says, "The door opens only to the King." Mrs. Potts continues. "I believe whoever is holding your parents hostage wishes to speak with you."
Ben rushes to his parents' bedroom door and knocks. "Mal, it's me." The door opens. Once Ben stepped inside, the door closes.
Ben saw his parents hogtied. He was about to untie them until Mal appears right in front of him. Mal greets Ben with a kiss on the cheek.
"Hey, your majesty," she started.
"What are you doing here, Mal?" asked Ben.
Mal draws a sword and places it against Belle's throat. "I was hoping we could talk."
"Put that sword away, Mal," pleaded Ben.
"Not until you meet my demands," said Mal.
"What do you want?" gave in Ben, for his mother's sake.
"The Leaf," said Mal. "Where is it?"
"How did you know about that?" asked Ben.
"I've been doing research," replied Mal. "Now, again, where is it?"
"And if I don't tell you?" questioned Ben.
Mal presses the blade on Belle's neck, answering Ben's question.
"Don't," begged Ben. "Please, Mal. Threaten me but leave them alone."
"I have no intention of threatening you," said Mal.
"Why?" asked Ben.
"I know you, Ben. You would rather give up your life than hand over the object I seek," said Mal. "So, I thought of using the people you love as leverage."
"Or is this because you would never hurt me?" guessed Ben.
Mal didn't answer. Feeling pushed, she deepens the sword's touch on Belle. The former queen started whimpering in pain.
"Wait." Ben returns to his room and takes out an orb. He rushes back to his parents' room and gives it to Mal. "It's like a tracking device for the Leaf. It glows brighter when you're closer to it. You'll find it in the garden."
Mal teleports out of the room, allowing Ben to untie his parents.
"Thanks, sweetie," said Belle.
"Are you sure that was the wise move?" questioned Beast.
"You think I want to attend another funeral?" said Ben. Beast smiles, proud of his son.
"I can still remember the day you got that leaf," reminisced Belle. "You were eight. You and your friends were playing when you ran into a tree. I remember treating your nose."
"Happy memories, indeed," responded Ben.
"What do you recommend we do, son?" asked Beast.
"Nothing," said Ben. "Let Mal have the Leaf. If we try to stop her, someone will be joining Sofia."
Belle puts her hand on her son's shoulder and says, "We understand." She hugs her son, who is clearly still grieving over his lost friend.
In the garden, Mal was still searching for the Leaf. She goes from bush to bush, tree to tree and watches as the orb glows brighter. The orb glows its brightest as Mal stands next to a tree, which means the Leaf is there. Mal saw a glow around one leaf on a branch. She rips it off the branch and lets go of the orb.
"The Leaf. Check," said Mal. She heard someone walking towards her. "Let me guess. Carlos?" She turns around and saw it was him. "What're you doing here?"
"Depends. What are you doing here?" responded Carlos. "Leaf-picking?"
"You have no idea, Carlos," said Mal.
"First the Amulet, then an orb, then a necklace, and now a leaf," enumerated Carlos. "What do these have to do with harnessing the amulet's power?"
"You're smart. You'll figure it out," sassed Mal.
"You threatened your boyfriend's parents," said Carlos. "Don't you feel any guilt at all about everything you're doing?"
"Did I feel guilt taking Sofia's life?" retorted Mal.
Carlos didn't speak.
"If you're planning on telling everyone where I am, go ahead. What's a triumph without a good battle first?" said Mal. "Have you considered your position in this world?"
"Like I would succumb to the dark side. Not in your sickest dreams," said Carlos.
"How 'bout we meet up again tomorrow?" asked Mal. "A civil conversation might do you good."
"As if I would give you a chance to corrupt me," refused Carlos.
"If you wish, snowball," insulted Mal. "The full moon approaches, Carlos. It's your last chance to stop me." She disappears.
The following day, Carlos is in the castle living room, anxiously waiting for his friends. He called all of his friends, excluding the new, still-injured villain kids, for a meeting. After twenty minutes of pacing around, Ben walks through the door with his friends.
"Where have you guys been?" asked Carlos, panicking.
"I had to help Evie out of bed," said Jay.
"Sorry," apologized Carlos.
"So, why did you call this meeting?" asked Ben.
"It's about Mal," started Carlos. "I know how to stop her. Sofia knew how to stop her."
"How?" asked Audrey.
"Ben," answered Carlos.
Everyone looks at Ben then back at Carlos, confused.
"Sofia told me that the only person who can stop Mal is Ben," said Carlos.
"No, I can't do it. You know I can't do it," said Ben, afraid of what Carlos might be asking him to do.
"That's also what I thought she said at first. But I was wrong. She's asking you to just talk to Mal," said Carlos.
"Just talk to her?" questioned Jay.
"That's all she could say," said Carlos.
"Wait, if you knew about this, then why'd you wait until now to tell us?" asked Evie.
"I didn't want to lose anyone else," answered Carlos.
"I understand," said Ben.
"But seeing the cost of keeping this a secret, I decided to let it out," said Carlos.
"So, all Ben has to do is talk to Mal? Sofia thinks that will solve everything?" questioned Lonnie.
"Sofia may not be infallible, but I know she's right," said Carlos.
"What makes you so sure?" asked Doug.
"Because she would never hurt Ben," said Carlos.
"Uh, she gave him the stare," reminded Chad.
"She felt bad about it, didn't she?" reminded Carlos.
"Don't you think that maybe someone should come with him? Just in case?" said Audrey.
"Maybe you could, Carlos," suggested Evie.
"No, I can't," refused Carlos.
"You're afraid," said Evie, seeing the fear in his eyes.
"Yes, I am, but it's not Mal I'm scared of, but turning over to the dark side," said Carlos.
"What do you mean?" asked Jane. "Is she blackmailing you to become evil, or something?"
"No, she's seen through me," said Carlos. "She knows I miss being rotten to the core, and she's trying to bait me."
"Carlos, I can't believe you would think this. Out of the four of us, you're the one who's least likely to return to your old ways," said Evie.
"You're more compassionate than you are callous," added Jane.
"Maybe, but I'm not taking those chances. Ben has to go alone," said Carlos.
"Don't you remember what Sofia always says?" questioned Ben.
"'Everyone needs help,'" answered Carlos. "I want to come. I'd do it for a friend, but I just can't take any chances. You guys have enough trouble with Mal."
"That's what I said when Ben was recruiting more VKs," mentioned Audrey.
"Besides, I don't think you need my help at all. Mal is relaxed around you. What you say to her will save the day," said Carlos to Ben.
"I'll do it," said Ben. Everyone was surprised at what he said. Ben looks at everyone and said, "I'm doing not just for her, but for Sofia. Her death will not be in vain."
"One more thing," said Carlos. "Mal mentioned the full moon. That's tonight. This is our last chance."
"Well, miracles always happen at the time things look bleak," said Lonnie. "Why should the universe let it stop now?"
"But we don't where she is," said Chad.
"Go east. Top of the hill," said Carlos.
"You knew where she was?" questioned Jay, surprised and annoyed.
"She would've killed me if I spilled the beans, but now that she's putting her plan in motion, she let me tell you," said Carlos.
Carlos leaves the room, until someone caught his wrist. He didn't need to look to guess.
"Evie, please, let go," asked Carlos.
"No, not until we talk," said Evie.
"I know you think it's impossible for me to turn evil, but I'm afraid you don't know everything about me," said Carlos.
"First, you blamed yourself for what happened to Sofia. Now, you think Mal is right about what she said about you," enumerated Evie. "Do you have to let all of this force you into isolation?"
"This is all too much for me take in, Evie. My friend's gone. I realized the truth about my decision. I just... I need some time alone," said Carlos.
"That's all the time," said Evie. "And you're still a mess."
"How would you feel if your were the one in that cave holding Sofia in your arms when her lights were out?" responded Carlos. "You didn't hesitate to choose good, but I did."
Evie responds. "You thought it was because..."
"Of our parents, I know," interrupted Carlos. "But Mal opened my eyes to the truth."
"I'm not going to just let you stay in the dark. You've been there too long," said Evie. "If you stay in the dark, your heart will become dark as well."
"You don't have to worry," said Carlos.
"You've been worrying about this," reminded Evie.
"I am, but I know why I'm still here," responded Carlos. "You. You're the one who keeps me in the light."
Evie didn't respond. She was actually happy that Carlos was being positive this time. She lets go of his hand and places hers on his face. "As long as I'm alive, you will be the man you promised Auradon to be."
"Be careful what you say. Those words might come back to bite you," warned Carlos playfully.
Evie lets out a big smile and a small chuckle in response.
"Come here." Carlos grabs Evie's back, pulls her closer, and presses his lips on hers. Evie puts her arms around him and embraces him, giving in to the kiss. There was nothing but smiles, sparkling eyes, and red hot cheeks after the kiss.
"Does this make us an item?" asked Evie.
"Your choice," responded Carlos
"I kissed back, didn't I?' reminded Evie. "Now it's your turn." The blue-haired narcissist reunites her lips with his and the white-haired tech prodigy did as she said. He kissed back.
It was night time. This was Auradon's last chance to get back the Mal they loved and adored. The villain kids, minus Carlos, and the teenagers from Auradon accompanied Ben in a limo to the hill. They all exited and stared at the towering landform.
"Are you sure we shouldn't just drive all the way up there?" questioned Chad.
"No. Like Carlos said, I have to see her alone," responded Ben.
"Be careful," said Audrey.
"You don't need to say that. Mal would never hurt me," said Ben, feeling confident.
"I mean be careful climbing up. Wouldn't want you to fall down," corrected Audrey.
"Get her back," said Evie.
"I will," promised Ben.
"And you better. If you don't, not only will Auradon be doomed but you're getting a black eye," threatened Jay with humor.
"Failing is punishment enough. That's not necessary," said Ben, playing along.
"Well, hope to see you back at the castle holding hands with Mal," said Evie.
The teenagers returned to the limo and the driver drives back to the castle, leaving Ben to climb up the hill on his own.
Almost an hour later, Ben made it to the top, where Mal was getting ready for the full moon, which was still covered by clouds. He saw a cauldron and four tree stumps with different items, including the Leaf.
"Hey, Benny-Bear," greeted Mal.
"Hi," greeted Ben.
"No Carlos?" noticed Mal. "Too bad. I would've loved to pet his snow-white hair."
"He knows you've been trying to bait him to the dark side," said Ben. "He's not going to risk turning back on his new path just to help me."
"I thought Sofia's trademark might push him to," said Mal.
"Me too," said Ben.
Mal takes a look at Ben. "No sword? No weapons? Did you just come here to talk?"
"Yes," answered Ben.
"Well, I could use the moment," said Mal as she poured a vial of potion into the cauldron.
"Why the cauldron? Isn't that a witch thing?" wondered Ben.
"When people throw insults at me, they always say 'witch,'" mentioned Mal. "Besides, I need this."
"Carlos told us Sofia's amulet is magic. What can it do?" asked Ben.
"Simple. If she does something good, she gets a blessing. If she does something bad, she get cursed," answered Mal. "Also, it can give her a princess whenever she needs serious help."
"Anything else?" asked Ben.
"Well, on the day we fought, she said she can use it to make herself shrink," said Mal. "Probably a blessing for helping someone or something tiny.
"What happened?" asked Ben.
"Obviously, I couldn't see her. She snuck behind me and had that magic sword at my neck," answered Mal. "But, since I'm still here and she's not, you can tell it didn't work for her."
Ben had to pretend he was amused when he was still in grief. "To think of what would've happened if Carlos showed up a little later."
"Sofia would've become the 'perfect little princess who took a life willingly,'" responded Mal.
"If she did, I'm pretty sure everyone would still see her as a hero," said Ben.
"But you'll be mourning," mentioned Mal.
"Well, it's the past," said Ben, frowning.
"Forgive, forget," joked Mal, laughing.
"You think that taking a life is funny?" responded Ben.
"I'm different now, Ben," reminded Mal.
"But you still care about me," said Ben.
Mal refused to look at Ben.
Ben continued. "I saw the look on your face when I said you wouldn't hurt me. I know you still care about me."
"You did try to give me the best," said Mal sadly, seeming to agree with him.
"And yet, you tried to kill everyone at your own birthday party," reminded Ben. "Don't you feel even the slightest bit of guilt for that? Or for what you did to Sofia?"
"And there it is. Trying to make me see reason," said Mal, predicting it to come soon.
"I guess the civil conversation's over," said Ben.
"So, make your move," said Mal.
"What are you up to?" asked Ben.
"Well, even though I already know what these artifacts are capable of, let's hear you tell me what they can do," said Mal.
Ben decided to do what she said. "The Moon Orb. The Enchantress created it to illuminate the darkest of times. I have to be honest. I can't tell if she meant it literally or figuratively. The Necklace of Rahn. He was an Arabian thief from a long time ago who asked a wizard to enchant the necklace to give him the power to command others. He was defeated by a young warrior named Ei and the necklace was thought to be lost forever. The Leaf. Creator unknown, but people have told of its power to heal the sick."
"And yet, you keep it hidden," mentioned Mal.
"That was because the leaf lost its power from too much use. It needed plenty of sunlight. It's like a recharge," said Ben.
"Now, try to guess why I needed all this," said Mal.
Ben has been thinking for five minutes, but he still hasn't said anything. During those five minutes, Mal puts a spark of magic in the Moon Orb and dropped it in the cauldron. Then, she ripped the jewel from the necklace and dropped it in as well. She did nothing to the Leaf. She just simply put it along with the others. Ben was still thinking, until he turned his attention to the full moon, still covered. Mal had the amulet in her hands, but she didn't drop it in the cauldron. She just looked up into the sky, waiting for the clouds to uncover the moon.
"You're planning on harnessing the amulet's power," guessed Ben.
"Correct," responded Mal.
"With all that power, you'll be able to do anything," said Ben further.
"There will be no field of magic I can't enter," said Mal.
"What next? Rule Auradon?" asked Ben.
"I'm not my mother, Ben," replied Mal.
"So it's just messing up people's lives for the fun of it," guessed Ben. "That's more mean than evil."
"You have no idea what I can do with all that power, Ben," said Mal. "And trust me. Everything I will be doing from this night and forward will give every child in Auradon nightmares."
"Unless you plan on entering their dreams and turn them into nightmares," joked Ben.
"Well, obviously, I won't be jumping into my antics right away after this. I'll be testing my new powers," said Mal. "At some place secret. Obviously since Carlos already told you about the hill."
"You know I can't let you succeed," said Ben.
"And how do propose to stop me? I sense no magical object on your person," responded Mal.
"I don't need magic to stop you," said Ben. "I have my greatest weapon right here." Ben gestured to his heart.
"Use your love to force me to release mine," guessed Mal.
"I know you still have it in your heart," said Ben.
"Give me your best shot," dared Mal.
"Why did you betray us? If not because we pretended to forget about your birthday, then why?" asked Ben.
"I've been planning it all day that day. The birthday stunt just motivated me further," said Mal.
"You didn't answer my question," said Ben. "You said you were tired to pretending to be good."
"You think I actually loved being good?" started Mal.
"You told me, you told everyone, that you wanted to stay in Auradon with me," reminded Ben.
"And I meant it," said Mal.
"Then why take back what you said?" asked Ben.
"I've been thinking about what I want. Love or power? It was a tough choice," said Mal, though it was a lie.
"You chose power," said Ben.
"The joy of inflicting pain, the lust for blood, and the dream of power. I missed it," said Mal.
Ben looked at Mal closely. "You're holding back."
The look on Mal's face tells she was shocked.
"Maybe what you just said is true, but you're holding something back," said Ben. "What are you hiding? What's your real reason?"
Mal couldn't think of another lie. She predicted he'd probably see it anyway. She returned staring at the sky, only to see the clouds still covering the moon.
"Mal, maybe you do want the power, but not as much as you miss your new life here in Auradon," said Ben.
"Don't push it, Ben," warned Mal.
"You won't hurt me," said Ben.
"I can hurt you if I want to," said Mal.
"So why threaten my parents instead of me?" responded Ben.
"I already gave you my reason," said Mal.
"But it's a lie. You would never hurt me. Even if you did, you'll feel bad about it," said Ben.
"I can burn your face off right here, right now," threatened Mal.
"Then do it," dared Ben, knowing full well she won't.
Mal lights up her hand with fire and throws a punch at Ben, but she stopped before her fist collided with his face. Ben didn't even flinch. He knew she couldn't do it. Mal extinguishes her hand and turns her back on Ben, thinking about what just happened.
"Face it, Mal. A part of you will always be good," said Ben.
"If you keep pushing me, I might actually hit you next time," warned Mal.
"After everything I've done for you, everything I've said, introducing you to the Enchantress, and giving you the best Christmas of your life, you still choose to return to your old ways," said Ben.
"Get out of here, Ben," said Mal.
"You can't fight the will to be good," said Ben. "Once you behave like a good person, it sticks forever."
Mal was feeling like she was about to erupt with anger, until she saw that the full moon is finally uncovered. She uses her magic to make the amulet levitate in the air. It directs the light of moon into the cauldron. After a few seconds, a flash of lights comes out of the cauldron. Once the light disappeared, a purple liquid orb comes out of the cauldron. Mal tosses the amulet aside and reaches for the object that will give her what she wants, until Ben spoke.
"I know you'll do the right thing, Mal," said Ben. He was holding back for a moment until he said it. "I love you."
The sound of those words made Mal's heart race and made her ignore the darkness. The last time she heard him say this was when he was under a love spell, but now he says it for real. The real Ben actually told her that he loves her. Mal looks at the orb and then back at Ben. She thought she was gonna have to make a tough choice, but the love in her heart has been released from those three simple words. Mal walks away from the cauldron and looks at Ben in the eye.
"You do?" asked Mal.
"I wouldn't say it I didn't," said Ben, smiling.
Mal didn't know what to say.
"Remember that future we keep talking about? We, you, can still have it," said Ben. "But the choice is yours."
"I think my choice is clear," said Mal, looking at Ben with a smile on her face. It was no sadistic smile or a sly grin, but a happy smile.
"Show me," said Ben.
Mal knew what he meant. She feels that this maybe the right time. She leans in to kiss Ben on the lips, but she stopped when she felt something disturbing. She turned around and saw her mother show up.
"Am I interrupting something?" started Maleficent.
"Get out of here!" yelled Mal.
"Oh, I will, once I claim the prize you rejected," said Maleficent.
Mal knows she's talking about the power orb. She knows that it would be catastrophic in unimaginable ways if her mother gets all that power. "Stay back, Ben." Mal stands in front of the orb and faces her mother. "I beat you on my own before, more than once. I can do it again."
"You know I won't stop, sweetie," said Maleficent.
Mother and daughter fired magic blasts at each other, only resulting to another explosion. Mal unleashes a fire blast, but her mother teleported away from the line of fire. She reappears next to Ben. She places her scepter directly at his chest.
"One move and he gets it," threatened Maleficent.
Mal disappears and reappears behind Maleficent. She kicks her mother in the back, knocking her to the ground.
"Ben, get out of here!" yelled Mal.
"Not a chance," said Ben.
Mal knows there is nothing she can say to force Ben to leave, so she does the next thing: use magic. "I'm sorry about this." Mal encases Ben in a bubble.
Mal turns back to her mother and fires another magic blast, but Maleficent swats it away with her scepter. Maleficent disappears and reappears behind Mal. She bonks her in the head with her scepter. While Mal tries to get up, Maleficent reaches for the orb. Mal holds out her hand and the orb flies to her. She gets up and lights up her hands on fire. She punches and kicks her mother repeatedly until she knocks her down with a fire blast. Mal stares down at her mother.
"Maybe you want to take my life now?" dared Maleficent.
Mal looks back at Ben and knew what his look is telling her. "Not anymore," said Mal.
"Too bad." Maleficent disappears again, but didn't reappear in a second. Mal keeps the orb close to her as she stay alert. She heard a sound behind her. Startled, she shoots a fire blast the second she turns around, only to pop the bubble she trapped Ben in. Maleficent reappears and holds Ben hostage again.
"Don't try anymore tricks, Mal," said Maleficent. "I don't care if you hand over the power orb or not. You're beloved king here will join your friend."
Mal thought she was gonna lose Ben, until she thought of something crazy. She knew it was going to be a big mistake, but she has no choice.
"Ben, I just want you to know that... I'm sorry," said Mal. "About everything... and about this." Mal throws the orb at her mother and the villain was occupied absorbing the power, giving Ben enough time to run to Mal.
"What have you done?" questioned Ben, surprised of her action.
"Like I said. I'm sorry," said Mal.
Maleficent finishes absorbing the power and takes a moment to feel it.
"Thank you, Mal," said Maleficent. "I'm proud of you."
"You got what you want. Now go," said Mal.
Maleficent thinks about. She points her scepter at Ben and fires. Mal takes the hit, but is wounded in the process.
"What do you know? This new power really works," said Maleficent, already liking her newfound power. She looks back at Ben and tells him, "You and my daughter can share this moment, your majesty. I want you to enjoy your last moments together before I finally see the value of being evil."
Maleficent disappears. Ben turns back to Mal. She opens her eyes and hugs Ben right away.
"I'm sorry," apologized Mal.
"That's okay. I understand," said Ben.
"My mom has all the power. She'll destroy us all," said Mal hopelessly.
"You're being pessimistic just because of that one blast?" questioned Ben. "Don't give up, Mal."
"She's can master any field of magic, Ben. My mother is now more dangerous than you can possibly imagine," said Mal.
"Remember, good triumphs over evil. Your mother may have greater power, but we have each other," said Ben. "Everything will be alright."
Mal keeps her mouth closed as she stares at Ben. She never thought she'd miss his optimism. "I missed you." Mal embraces Ben, who embraces her back.
"I miss you, too," said Ben.
Back in the castle, Evie, Jay, Chad, and Lonnie are playing a board game they found in the attic while Carlos, Audrey, Jane, and Doug are watching funny videos of animals doing silly things. They heard the door open. It was Ben, holding hands with Mal.
"Ben, you're back," said Audrey with delight.
"Mal!" exclaimed Evie, Jay, and Carlos at the same time. They ran towards her and gave her a suffocating group hug. Mal didn't yell at them. She hugged them back.
"I miss you guys," said Mal.
"So, you did it," said Evie to Ben.
"It wasn't easy, but, yeah, I did," said Ben. "Mal is with us."
"So, I guess that concludes the happy ending of this story," said Jane.
"Not exactly, Jane," said Mal. "I maybe back, but I made a grave mistake."
"What?" asked Carlos.
"My plan was to harness the power of the amulet and be able to wield any kind of magic, but my mother intervened," started Mal. "She was going to kill Ben. I had no choice but to give her the power."
"Great," responded Audrey sarcastically.
"Nice job, oh mighty sorceress," said Chad, also with sarcasm.
"Chad, please, don't anger her," responded Ben.
"What is she gonna do? Stick a sword through me?" continued Chad.
"I would if you don't stop," said Mal.
"You're back on our side, we get it, but that doesn't change the fact that our friend is still gone thanks to you," said Audrey, mentioning Sofia.
Mal couldn't look at everyone recalling that moment.
"Guys, I think we can agree that what Mal did is unforgivable," said Ben. "But blaming her isn't going to help us stop Maleficent."
"So, should we tell the kingdom now?" asked Jay.
"No," replied Ben. "I want everyone in Auradon to know Mal is no longer a threat."
"So we're still keeping secrets from the people," said Lonnie.
"I didn't want to do this, but I already told why I agreed with my parents," said Ben.
"So, I'm guessing you're not even going to consider punishing Mal," said Audrey.
"I already punished myself. I gave my mom what I thought I wanted," said Mal. "If that's not the worst, I regret everything I've done. Really, I do."
"All it takes is Ben and you give up this new evil you," said Chad.
"Love is no weakness. It's strength," said Mal.
"She's back," said Carlos.
"I know why you can forgive her after everything she did, Ben, but what about the people? The ballroom fire, the attack on Agrabah, and Sofia's death. They heard about everything. They're gonna want her punished," said Audrey.
"Not on my watch," said Ben.
"The leaders of the kingdoms will give you a word, though," said Doug.
"Not to mention Enchancia and Agrabah have a bone to pick with Mal," added Jane.
"I get it. I get it. There will be discussions coming my way and protests against Mal, but I'll handle it," said Ben.
"But until then, let's celebrate," said Evie.
"Celebrate my mom being all-powerful?" responded Mal, thinking Evie's forgotten the grave matter in the discussion.
"I know your mom is still a problem, but you're back, Mal. That's what this is about," said Evie.
"Oh, I almost forgot." Jay remembered something. "We still have..."
"Actually, can the celebration wait later?" interrupted Mal.
"Why?" asked Jay.
"I have someplace to go," said Mal.
"You're not up to anything, right?" wondered a cautious Audrey.
"All I can say is I'll be right back," said Mal.
Before departing, Mal gives Ben a hug and a kiss on the cheek. The king was a little disappointed about not getting the real kiss, but he just happy that the woman he loves has returned to the side of good. The teenagers in the room watched as Mal walked out of the room, some happy while some still uncertain about her return.
"I was gonna tell her that we still kept a slice of cake from her birthday party," said Jay.
"How did you get a piece of cake from all that fire?" asked Chad.
"You don't want to know," responded Jay.
"So, how are the others?" asked Ben, talking about the other villain kids.
"Garth finally woke up," said Carlos.
"Uri is beginning to regain her sanity," reported Evie.
"Fernando is cleared," said Jay.
"Katherine is on a crutch," said Evie.
"Harley went on her date with Nathaniel," said Jay.
"They'll be fine," said Lonnie.
"Are you really, really sure you want them staying here?" asked Chad, still against Ben's promise.
"I always keep my promises. Besides, Harley changed, so why can't they?" responded Ben.
"Let's hope your girlfriend doesn't ruin it," said Audrey. "After what she did to them, they're definitely going for payback."
"We'd probably do the same thing if we were them," said Carlos to his two friends.
"But no one here wants to hurt Mal. She's already hurt," said Evie.
"So, do you want to see the hideout?" asked Carlos.
"I'd love to," said Evie. "Is it clean?"
"The place brings back a horrible memory, but yes," said Carlos.
Evie takes Carlos' hand as they walked out the room. No one was suspicious because they know that seemingly romantic moments are normal between those two. However, they don't know what has been happening between them the past couple of days.
Later that evening, in the Enchancia cemetery, Mal shows up at Sofia's grave. She takes a good long look at the statue of the princess whose life she took. She then opened her mouth and spoke.
"Hey, Sof. Nice statue. I'm surprised it's not gold. But that's not why I' m here." Mal takes a deep breath and continued. "I'm sorry about what I did to you, but I want you to know that you didn't die in vain. You died a hero. You told me that my love for Ben is what helps me control the darkness. You were right. When Ben told me 'I love you,' I thought back to what you said and I let your words sink in. Ben's confession may have opened my eyes, but your words are the reason I let myself give in to love. You didn't fail your mission. You succeeded. I just wish you were here to know it. Again, I'm sorry. Truly, I am. Rest in peace."
With these final words, Mal left the cemetery. She now feels guilty for what she has done, but she was glad to be able to tell her these words. She's heard of a legend that those in the afterlife can still see and hear you. At first, she thought it was ridiculous, but now she thinks it's a wonderful thought because Sofia maybe able to forgive her now.
And so ends the war. I know that the "war" lasted for only four stories, but I'm still calling it a war.
Leave a review. Please.
Author's Note: I will be taking a break from "Welcome To My Wicked World." My reason, besides the fact that I have to plan for future stories, is I am starting on my non-Descendants story I mentioned before. Unless you're into Batman, The LEGO Movie, or Lord of the Rings, I'm afraid you're gonna have to be patient for updates. It may take a long time. I don't know how long, but I promise I'll be back.