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P.H. took the news of the dinner party as well as Carlos had thought he would.
Meaning he didn't.
"Teenagers! In my house! You're letting in thuggish teenagers into my house," he howled when he got back from his summons. He was confused as Maleficent had asked irrelevant questions about his waste collecting duties; it certainly was a waste of her time as well as his.
He was incensed when he found out it was some distraction plot in order to break into his home, more so when his nephew was found out and so were all their inventions. He had started to race around the warehouse, trying to figure out what they could take and what they could leave when they escaped to the woods.
P.H. was in such a state that he didn't hear Carlos repeatedly try to tell him they couldn't run. It wasn't until the teen grabbed his panicking uncle and shook him that P.H. finally paid attention.
"We can't leave, they'll be here before we could head out. We can't leave while it's still light…we just have to have the dinner and see what they want."
"What they want?" P.H. incredulous that Carlos was not as panicked as he, clearly the heiress had only evil and nefarious designs for them. "Carlos, this is Maleficent II, her mother killed everyone who opposed her not days after stepping foot on his godsforsaken island. She saw the generator, she saw the garden. She knows we have been withholding tribute; clearly she wants to punish us and take us hostage to do her and her mother's evil bidding."
Carlos was glad that he didn't inherit that particularly dramatic gene that P.H. seemed to have.
"Uncle," he tried to reason with the upset scientist. "If they wanted to do all of that, they could have taken me when they were here. It would have been easier, and certainly smarter, to have taken me to Bargain Castle and instructed others to confiscate the garden and generator. You said you saw Mal and Jay before you left Maleficent, did you not?"
P.H. had forgotten that he had told Carlos what happened, too shaken to think clearly.
"That would have been a better time to arrest you, not hours later when we could come up with other plans to escape; they want to speak with us."
P.H. found it annoying when the teen was making so much sense. They were clearing missing something, while Carlos was correct that it would have been easier and smarter to have arrested them immediately, neither could think of why the heiress would want to speak with them over dinner.
If they couldn't divine her motive, then they couldn't plan accordingly to outmaneuver her.
"She also made it very clear to not try to escape," the teen warned his uncle, not that they could make a clean getaway during daylight hours anyway. Not unless they wanted to abandon their inventions, which would make it moot as they doubted they would be able to survive long in the harsh island wilderness without a dependable source of food and clean water. They may have been on the outskirts of town, it would still be rather obvious if they tried to cart off with such large burdens. They also didn't have enough time to dissemble everything carefully either, so they were left with no choice but to be hospitable.
While P.H. saw the practicality of doing what Mal wanted, that didn't stop him from complaining the whole time. Especially since Carlos insisted that they make the apartment spotless for their "guests." He only half paid attention when he took a rag and started to "dust," watching his nephew flit around like a hummingbird, cleaning and getting everything together.
He didn't see anything wrong with the apartment as it was, they were rather clean people by nature. Mal and her thug also had already been by their home, so it wasn't as if they were going to be surprised or disgusted when they came back a couple hours later.
Carlos paid no mind to his uncle's suspicious looks, he was too busy preparing dinner and making sure their apartment was presentable. They were also having a third guest over, one he had not heard of and didn't know. While he was being strong armed into this dinner, part of him was excited to meet new people; especially when those people were his age.
As much as he loved P.H., he got lonely and was starved for company.
Part of him was also nervous; the girl he had been pining over for the good part of three years was going to be in his home…again. He wanted to make a better impression and show her he was not just some simple minded shut in that didn't have his wits about him.
He couldn't shake off the image of her kind eyes and gentle hands when she thought his uncle was hurting him. P.H. may think Maleficent and her crew were nothing but mobsters, Carlos saw them as survivors that did what they had to do in a harsh environment but still managed to keep some compassion. If they were as heartless as P.H. thought they were, he was pretty sure that they'd both be in shackles at Bargain Castle.
Sometimes he thought his uncle was unfair in his judgement of Isle citizens. He didn't know how P.H. could expect Auradon like rules and decorum when the Mainland had banished them and left them to rot. It was easy to be civilized when the citizens had everything at their disposal; the fact that P.H. had a word for a type of food that had no nutritional value and was solely meant for enjoyment rather than subsistence, if that didn't show the disparity of resources between the Isle and the Mainland, he wasn't sure what would. While he didn't like how cruel the islanders could be, he understood it. He didn't know how kind or compassionate he would be if he was constantly hungry and on alert for danger. He was very much aware of how much he had growing up compared to the other children.
It sometimes haunted him how easily he could have been another angry Isle child.
Although his uncle grumbled the entire time, P.H. was somewhat placated at the promise of pie. He was further gratified to know Carlos was making his favorite dish, roasted rabbit that had been freshly caught and fried in its own fat. They could use the bones later for broth and sell the skin to tanners. The dinner would not be a total waste.
The elder scientist's eyes widened in delight when he saw the impressive spread that Carlos had laid out, but they quickly narrowed in suspicion; why was his nephew trying so hard? Such a feast usually reserved for their birthdays. At first he thought the boy nervous, worried that his fate would soon be in the hands of the dark fae and would live his life toiling away at her whim.
But Carlos didn't seem anxious, at least not for his life. The teen seemed worried over trivial things like placement settings and other trappings of making a good impression; but not an impression towards a potential jailer.
It wasn't until Carlos had gone to bathe, which he had already done that morning, and came back with slicked back hair—something Carlos had literally never done before—and the best clothes he owned did it dawn on P.H. what was going on.
Oh gods, the boy is peacocking.
He couldn't help the dramatic roll of his eyes or the slumping of his shoulders.
Gods save me from oversexed teenagers. Them and their filthy hormones are going to be stinking up the place.
He couldn't help but feel he failed somewhere along the way of raising him, clearly the boy had no real sense of self-preservation if he found himself infatuated with such dangerous people. Carlos was still hyper-focused on making sure everything was perfect that he didn't hear his uncle's melodramatic sighs of disappointment.
P.H.'s line of thinking was disrupted with the sound of knocking. His regret was replaced with irritation that those Isle brats had figured out their secret entrance. Carlos had started to slightly panic,
"I still have my apron on, they can't see me like this," he ran quickly away to get off the offending garment and did some last minute grooming.
P.H. was certain that his eyes were going to roll out of his head, but he had mercy on his nephew and went to get the door while Carlos smooth out invisible wrinkles and worried about how he looked.
When P.H. opened the door he saw three rather good looking young adults his nephew's age, all three radically different from the other but each well-formed and gorgeous in their own way.
"I guess I see what the fuss is about," he said dismissively instead of greeting them politely. His eyes traveled each of them, wondering which Carlos was enamored with. He was met with raised eyebrows and confused faces, none of them expecting such a reception.
Mal recovered first, used to P.H.'s quirks.
"Always the class act Paulie," she then forced her way in as P.H. had hoped that blocking the doorway and not formally inviting them in would somehow repel them.
Jay and their blue haired companion had followed suit, but at least the latter had the graciousness to look embarrassed, said "excuse me," and smiled at him.
Carlos was waiting for them in the living room, sans apron and hair still coiffed, and welcomed them to their home.
"Welcome, please make yourself comfortable," he said graciously, Mal was rather impressed at the effort he put in; particularly since she had forced his hand. It was clear that the boy was making an effort, unlike his uncle who would only allow them into his home begrudgingly and with bad grace.
She couldn't help but notice how fetching Carlos looked in black, white, and a dash of red; his curly hair tamed, vastly different that when she caught him in his bed.
I wonder if his hair looks that wild every time he wakes up?
She couldn't help the roguish smirk that graced her lips as she sauntered up to him. He blushed becomingly at her attention and had to look away else he would become completely flustered.
"Thank you Carlos, please accept this wine as my gratitude for having us over."
It seemed she was determined to pretend they had a choice in the matter, he was willing to play along as well; it would certainly make for a more comfortable evening.
Maybe she really does want to help socialize me.
He was about to accept the unlabeled bottled and a thanks on his lips before,
"No," P.H. said and intercepted the bottle before Carlos could take it. "I will be the one to accept gifts."
Somewhere in the back of his mind, the teen had recalled his uncle's warning about how to deal with fae.
First, be aware that names have power, so when conversing with them, give yourself a nickname to use, or don't say any name.
Well he had already failed that part, he had told her his name without even thinking of anything else. He would blame being newly awoken and being distracted by her beautiful eyes.
Second, never say "thank you" to a faery. Never give any impression of a debt owed.
Third, do not accept anything that is edible made by faeries because consuming anything fairkind made might result in binding yourself to the fae. It's best to politely decline.
Fourth, most Fae abide by a strict etiquette; politeness and regards to being unoffending is rather crucial. Since they can hold grudges for a very long time, exercise caution when speaking to them or refusing something.
Finally, when accepting gifts, be knowledgeable that some faerie gifts could come with unforeseen side effects. If you are concerned, either accept them then destroy it, or cleanse with salt water.
"Tha…," he first stared out of habit but then remembered the rules. "The wine is appreciated," stuttered out, not actually expecting that she would bring anything.
Mal was impressed, he managed to be polite without an admittance to who was appreciative. P.H. seemed to have taught him well when dealing with fae.
Jay came up next, unsure of his own gift and still confused as to why he had to bring one. But Mal had given an order and he would follow through.
"Thanks for havin' us," he said tersely and shoved an ornate brass vase at P.H., filled with wildflowers.
It was rather beautiful and P.H. could appreciate the social niceties that he had missed from being in Auradon. If he didn't know any better, he thought it may be an actual dinner party.
"Wow, …this looks beautiful and will be treasured."
"Pfft…" he snickered, "I'm not fae dude…I stole it from Lady Tremaine."
It was a little unnerving how cavalier the boy was at admitting he stole the vase, but Carlos figured he would have P.H. return it tomorrow. He still appreciated the sentiment and would thank him.
"And let me introduce you to Evilette Von Weither," Mal introduced their companion.
She was another beautiful girl with such unique coloured hair—a mark of fairkind blood—Carlos had not seen her before and was surprised that P.H. wouldn't have at least mentioned her in passing as he had made regular trips into town.
She had smiled shyly and slowly made her way towards the two hosts, it seemed she was also in need of socialization as he didn't think she was in her element.
"Thank you for having me, please call me 'Evie.' I brought pie."
That certainly made P.H. perk up and he took massive dessert from her.
Carlos was pretty sure the rule about not eating anything a fae made was not going to be adhered to for the pie. Sweets were P.H.'s fatal weakness.
"Well dinner smells delicious," Mal cordially complimented.
"Thank you, it's roasted rabbit with carrots, turnips, and garlic. . .hope no one's a vampire," Carlos joked and was glad that at least Evie had snorted with laughter.
Mal had smiled indulgently, but Jay and P.H. had rolled their eyes at the lame joke.
At least someone thinks I'm funny.
Carlos wasn't sure what else to do other than seat everyone and serve dinner. They didn't have anything as rare or fancy as glass goblets, but at least they had enough ceramic cups to pour the wine into. He was rather curious as he had never had it, they had a boiler to disinfect water and a charcoal sieve to filter. P.H. never seemed to have a desire for alcohol, so neither had built a liquor distiller; he knew most of the Isle drank a mild ale or wine as there was no water processing plants and tainted water could kill just as easily as starvation. He wasn't sure how they were going to handle the wine, P.H. might have accepted it on their behalf, but that was different from drinking it.
"Well this looks wonderful Carlos. Handsome and can cook, I am impressed," Mal had flirted, she so enjoyed to make him blush.
He was fairly certain she was being facetious when she had said the dinner party was to help socialize him, but part of him thought he needed it because he was rendered speechless and flustered so easily by the beautiful heiress.
"Paulie, do you like my nail polish?" she said seemingly randomly before they had dug into their food. She daintily rapped her fingers on the table, her nails sparkled as the candle light caught them at different angles.
"I have no opinion of it," he replied suspiciously, knowing with the fae there was no such thing as an innocuous conversation.
"Oh, but you must have some opinion. Look how it shimmers, it is rather beautiful and unique don't you think? Evie is rather talented with chemistry and botany; she made it especially for me."
He remained silent as Mal was not the type to have such a vapid conversation for no reason. Jay had looked neutral but Evie was rather tense, not especially happy her name was invoked but the de Vils figured there was a point to this line of conversation.
"The effect is created from the Medusa fern, the sap from its leaves has a mica like property…are you familiar with this plant P.H.?"
Carlos became tense when Mal dropped the annoying nickname, hoping that the evening had not taken a dark turn.
"I am."
"Well then you know that one little nick can cause total paralysis, even of the lungs, in humans. It's a rather slow and terrifying death…but it has no effect whatsoever on fae, isn't that interesting?"
"It certainly is."
"Jay, how is the food?"
The boy hadn't waited for anyone else to start eating, he already had taken several bites while Mal had talked.
"It's all delicious, I think you should have some."
The fae smiled wider, her point had gotten across and Evie had breathed out in relief.
Mal may be the heiress to the Leadership of the Isle, but she didn't survive as long as she had by assuming every cute innocent looking boy that came along was actually harmless. She had a loyal enough second that could test the food and was resilient enough to survive most poisons.
"Well then, lets eat. To new friendships," she toasted and took a sip from her cup, Evie following suit to show that they too had not come as hostile guests and did not poison the wine.
P.H. was not happy to be threatened in his own home, but perhaps he understood that she was used to dealing with much more unfriendly and murderous people. Carlos was still unsure of drinking the wine, P.H. made no movement to drinking it himself.
"Do not worry about the wine, I did not make it myself. It is from a human vintner."
With that, both had taken experimental sips; neither sure if they could trust her at her word, they also couldn't keep declining without appearing rude. They relaxed when all they tasted was the sweet wine, there were no other effects that would signify fae influence.
Soon the subtle threats were forgotten when they had started to dine in earnest. Carlos appreciated how much the three guests really liked his food, normally P.H. only cared for meat or something sweet and ate the vegetables at the last possible moment. The teens had loved everything and were not shy about telling him so. He had relaxed enough to really enjoy the wine, it was honeyed and robust, spiced with anise and cinnamon.
He wondered where they had gotten such exotic spices as they were not native to the island. P.H. looked suspicious, as he also knew what luxury the wine was and how hard it was to come by, even for the heiress of the island.
But his nephew had thought it was a generous gift and loved it, he proceeded to tell them all he knew about the fermentation process.
"On the Mainland, their preferred way to make wine is with grapes, not apples or wild strawberries. One of the oldest processes is through malolactic fermentation…"
Evie listened with rapt attention, always eager to learn new things. Mal had followed along and Jay mostly just helped himself to seconds.
"Carlos, you may want to slow down. You are not used to wine," his uncle told him gently as the teen had finished off his second glass and went further into the history of winemaking and his speech became quicker.
He felt rather warm and giddy, so he wasn't sure why his uncle thought he needed to slow down but he trusted him and started to drink water. He still went on about what he knew about wine, a book on the history of vinification had been donated, because it was super interesting and he found that he couldn't stop once he started.
Jay was rather bored and still didn't know why they were there. In any other situation, they would have reported the two to Maleficent and let her mete out punishment. The de Vils had such a cushy set up and clearly could have given more tribute. For some reason Mal was inclined to go easy on them and he didn't know why.
He especially didn't know why Evie was brought into it. He would jump at any chance to spend time with the blue haired girl; he thought she looked particularly stunning that night as she had braided her hair for the occasion. She rarely got out to meet people as her mother, the once "Evil Queen" Ravanna, wanted to guard her virtue. The witch had only ever trusted Mal, not only because she was the heiress and second most feared person on the Isle but the daughter of a close business partner. It was in everyone's interest that Evie be protected.
Supposedly Mal had a solution to Evie's problem, he just didn't know what and his friend was being annoyingly mum about it.
He grew even more uninterested when the conversation diverged into school and plans for the week.
Jay wasn't the only one bored, although he was more likely to keep quiet about it. P.H. had hit that dangerous spot of buzzed enough from the wine to loosen his already untactful tongue and inhibitions but not gone enough where he'd be incoherent or brushed off as drunk.
"As eager as I am to dig into this delicious looking and hopefully un-poisoned pie, is there a reason for this dinner or am I really going to suffer through more of all this 'small talk?'"
Carlos nearly choked on his water, he had never heard his uncle be so rude; perhaps the wine was a bad idea.
"I am so sorry…" he began, hoping the heiress didn't take so much offense that they were bound for Bargain Castle.
"No, it's rather alright. I thought we were having a lovely dinner but Paulie likes to get to the point, I can respect that. Fine. As you know, Fleur de Pomme is…"
"I knew it! You're going to take him away from me. Well you can't have Carlos. I'm not about to let you sell his virginity to the highest bidder and pimp him out for the rest of his life at that brothel!" P.H. almost frothed at the mouth in rage, the table shaking from his anger as he slammed his cup down.
Carlos wondered if he jumped out the window, would it be high enough to kill him on impact or would he just break several bones and suffer for months if not years to recover.
From Mal's bewildered reaction to P.H.'s outburst, he thought it may not matter as nothing could be more painful than that humiliating moment.
It didn't help that Jay had burst out laughing and didn't seem he would be stopping anytime soon.
Evie just kind of looked to the side, pretending nothing had happened; only the blush that started to dominate from her throat to her cheeks gave away her own embarrassment.
"Although that's one idea…and I'm sure he would garner a lot of coin," Mal couldn't resist teasing him, it was so easy. "It's not his virginity I'm interested in…at least not at this moment."
Carlos was fairly certain he would be permanently red, his face felt like it was on fire with mortification but partly in shyness when Mal winked at him.
"Evie," Mal went on and emphasized exactly who was the subject of the conversation. "is about to turn seventeen. While her mother had hopes of her nabbing a prince…in some inexplicable scenario…she has given up on that idea and has decided that her daughter needs to join the family business. There will be a silent auction for her virginity in a fortnight. None of us," she motioned to herself, Evie, and Jay. "want that to happen. Not only is she my friend, I feel her talents would be wasted in a brothel. Like I said, she is talented in chemistry and botany. I feel she would better serve the Isle as its apothecarist."
"So what's stopping you?"
"Unfortunately, Ravanna is a close and loyal business partner. Mother isn't willing to intercede on Evie's behalf, even at my behest. She also doesn't see how Evie can't do both, particularly as it's the whores who usually need the most…medication."
Carlos felt there was more to the story, but he was getting rather ill. He didn't know if it was the wine, or the thought of such a sweet girl having to sell her body to the highest bidder. He respected anyone who wanted to work in the sex trade, they all did what they had to survive; but he hated the thought of anyone having to go into it against their will.
"So where do we come in?"
"You have several valuable commodities, commodities that would go a long way in helping the Isle…"
"Don't you mean your mother? I assume she wouldn't just share this technology with everyone out of the goodness of her heart."
"My mother has such a grip on the Isle, isn't it really the same thing? You have this technology, and I assume you can make it on a larger scale…and by assume I mean I'm going to make you do it. I'm not giving you a choice in that, so put that idea to bed. Or any idea of you continuing to keep this technology to yourself. I am, however, giving you a choice to remain anonymous. You don't want to live under my mother's thumb, I don't blame you. You're a disrespectful mouthy asshole, you'd die in a week and we're all no worse off than we were before."
P.H. huffed but he didn't disagree.
"So here's the deal. You teach Evie how to make a generator. A small one, something like you have now, can be smaller. We just need to show my mother that it can be done. Suddenly Evie is too valuable to waste time in the brothel, she's working for my mother and she spends her days creating a larger generator that could power Bargain Castle, the brothel, and whatever other building that can pay for it. It takes however long it takes to build a bigger generator for the public. Mother gets more taxes, Evie is safe, no one finds you guys out. Everyone is happy. Once mother's gratefulness for the generator runs out, Evie then comes up with the brilliant idea of a garden that is supplemented with generated sunlight and no dirt. That tides everyone over for a while longer. Then there is the godsend invention of whatever you came up with that makes this water delicious and safe to drink. You have enough tech here to keep my mother interested in keeping Evie out of the brothel for years. If you happen to never come up with anything ever again, she'd be too old and the Isle darling that gave power, food, and safe water to the Isle. I doubt anyone would make her be a whore and she can 'fall back on' running the apothecary."
P.H. thought it over, wondering what his options really were. Carlos remained quiet, he didn't want to give away that he probably would have helped Evie regardless. He wouldn't be able to live with himself if he could have helped and didn't.
Mal was tempted to do more stick than carrot, start to threaten taking Carlos with them to the brothel if they didn't comply as clearly that had always been P.H.'s fear. She meant it when she said the teen would probably fetch a lot of coin, especially for the right of First Night. He was a handsome boy with pretty features; if she were into whores she might have even placed her own bid. But there was something innocent and kind about him, she couldn't help but stare at him and want to help him.
"And besides not turning you in for not only hiding someone, which my mother may or may not see as a plot against her and I think you and everyone else is rather familiar with what she does to those who threaten her reign, I'll even sweeten the deal," she decided to give a little to get a lot. "My mother has me oversee all the donations from the Mainland. Technically it's supposed to be distributed to everyone, instead it goes through us and we distribute how we feel is fair."
Which of course meant they took all the best stuff for themselves and sold the rest. It was rather ruthless, to take charity and horde it but that's how things went on the Isle; although part of Carlos wondered if it wasn't at least a little fair for Maleficent to take her portion for keeping law and order on an island full of other villains. He didn't know of anyone else who could have pulled it off, he certainly didn't want to think of what life would be like if it were complete anarchy.
P.H. seemed to be thinking along the same lines as he wasn't refusing Mal outright.
"So when the donations come in, you come with me to take inventory and maybe you get second pick. You can have first pick if you choose items that could further help the island, make more generators or water filtration systems. Things of that nature."
That was rather tempting, they had created so much with whatever was left over from all the top villains and henchmen via rifling through their garbage. If they could have a crack of whatever came in first, then they might have access to all the cast off technology before it's rough handled by henchmen who have no idea of what they're dealing with and some of their idling experiments might come to fruition.
"That's quite the offer…it's a lot to think about…may we have the night to think it over?" P.H. asked after a few moments.
"No."
Mal didn't feel the need to explain herself, they all knew he would take the deal as there wouldn't be another one, or a better one from any other rival villain if he was stupid enough to try to shop his options.
"I think you mistake our 'playful' banter back and forth Dr. de Vil."
Carlos had almost flinched at how cold her voice got.
"I'm not giving you a choice. This is the plan and it's going to happen. And I know you're very clever. You've created this comfortable home, hidden your nephew and kept him safe and well fed and that in itself is impressive. I'm sure if you had the time and really wanted to, you'd figure some way to get out of this situation. Maybe you'd even figure out how to end me. But I'm clever too. And I have loyal people who would be willing to do such horrible things to avenge me. And I think you love Carlos enough that you wouldn't risk his life or his virtue. So say 'yes,' shake my hand, and make the deal."
P.H. swallowed hard, making a faery deal was not what he was expecting and not something to take lightly. While the barrier prevented magic, there were things even the famous Fairy Godmother could not bind and one was the power of The Deal, something woven into the very existence of all fair and mankind. Faery deals didn't have as much flair as they normally did since they could not wield magic. But Maleficent used them to bind others to her cause and ensure loyalty. In return, she offered protection and food.
But deals were not without their merit. It may bind him to whatever he agreed to with Mal, but it also bound her to him under those same agreements.
So he refused to be kowtowed and thought of what he had as leverage: he already had food and protection was already bought with their taxes. Their inventions were worth much more than simply keeping quiet about withholding tribute. Carlos was another engineering prodigy, Maleficent may be angry that he was hidden but if she were to keep Evie then she could as easily keep Carlos. So whatever threats of keeping him in a brothel were most likely bluffs. P.H. decided to be smart about whatever deal he would make.
"Fine, but in addition to keeping Carlos secret, I want help getting letters to the Mainland."
Mal raised her eyebrow, not expecting that response.
"I know your mother still has sway over the goblins, it's one of the reasons she came to power and has first look at all the donations. I want them to smuggle letters."
"To what end?" she wondered why he would want to send letters, no one on the Mainland cared what happened to villains. Furthermore, there was no way any of them would get clemency from the Crown. They were all stuck on the Isle and there wasn't anything to do about it.
"I will write to the de Vil matriarch, Malevola. I will tell her of Carlos' existence and she will get him off this godsforsaken island."
"P.H…" Carlos started, he had no idea his uncle would ask for such a thing and had no idea how to even react.
"I haven't been able to do much for you Carlos, but I believe this could work," he looked to his nephew with regretful eyes, forgetting they had guests. "The de Vils have many faults, but we take care of our own. You do not deserve to be here, and I have shielded you from a life influenced by villains. That has to mean something to the Crown and I know Malevola will use the de Vil fortune to help you. Cruella was her heiress and favorite, she will take you in."
Some mad part of Carlos didn't want to go, didn't want to leave his uncle and everything he knew.
"But…"
"No 'but' Carlos. The hellspawn is right,"
All three of their guests frowned at his description of Mal and Carlos knew she hadn't lied when she said P.H. probably would have died within a week of service.
"…there is no changing the Crown's mind about those they banished. But they didn't banish you, at least not directly. I'm sure Malevola can find some unscrupulous but competent barrister to take the case. It may not happen right away, but I believe it could happen eventually; maybe a year or two."
"OK, I can make that deal," Mal cut in, Carlos still trying to process what had happened.
P.H. almost wanted to take the deal back, the teen fae had agreed to it too quickly. But it was the best one he would ever get from anyone else and it would help Carlos. Without another word, he took her hand and they shook on it.
He felt the power of The Deal buzzing through his body as if blood had rushed through it after falling asleep. The rules that made up the fabric of the universe sealed his fate and he was now bound to his word to Mal and by extension, Maleficent.
Carlos felt his stomach drop, things were happening too quickly and he just wanted to yell at them to stop and beg Mal to let him talk to his uncle. But it was too late, the deal was made and now P.H. was beholden to rules that both gods and man yielded to.
"Alright, what time should we be here tomorrow? Evie's tutelage should start as soon as possible," Mal wasted no time in invoking the contract.
"We?" P.H. asked, not believing more than Evie was part of the agreement.
"Ravenna does not allow Evie out of her sight without guards. I'm also not keen on leaving her alone with two strange men."
P.H. was rather offended at the insinuation that he couldn't be trusted around a young girl and on behalf of Carlos for the same reason, but then he remembered he was on the Isle and people were garbage in general so he accepted it grudgingly.
"We do rubbish collection at night…the generator runs off of organic waste, you'll learn more about that tomorrow. From around eleven to about sunrise, we sleep during the morning. Is mid-afternoon alright?"
"That's actually perfect, I have a similar schedule at the brothel…I make tonics, cook, clean, and do laundry," Evie offered and quickly explained herself, not wanting him to think she had any other type of job.
P.H. softened when instead of another one of Mal's thugs, he saw a scared young girl who did not want to sell her body; her shy ways and clever eyes reminded him of Carlos and how it could have easily been his nephew if he were not there or by a crueler twist of fate.
Perhaps he had judged the fae too harshly; while it was at his expense, he could respect that Mal was simply helping her friend from a destiny he wouldn't wish on his worst enemy. And the deal wasn't without his own advantages. She could have easily just forced him to do it with violence, Jay looked rather up to the challenge. He had always wanted a way to get Carlos away from the island, but most ideas involved cozying up to Maleficent and he didn't think any deal would be worth that. Mal's blackmail had proven a way to get fae favor and only having to deal with the lesser of the two evils.
With the deal done, they all enjoyed the pie, P.H. especially who had almost cried tears of joy, and more small talk. He was surprised that the teens could keep conversation flowing so easily, never bringing up their less than honest dealings on the island; Carlos was clearly having a wonderful time getting to know them, he was freely able to talk of his inventions and seemed to get on well with Evie.
Part of his heart broke at how carefree Carlos was, he fully started to see how the years of isolation had starved the boy of companionship. In another, kinder, life he could see the four being best of friends, all hanging out on a school night doing homework and going to the local high school. Still, he was not sure if he would have done anything differently. Villains and their children would not be good influences; he could not hope to send his nephew to Auradon if the boy had grown to be a thief or henchman. He only prayed that Carlos did not pick up any bad habits before he was rescued.
The teens finally left and while they cleaned up, Carlos paused and just stared at his uncle. The wonderful man who raised him and sacrificed his freedom trying to save a beloved cousin. The de Vils were wealthy, he could have lived a life of leisure and invented to his heart's content in luxury. He could have left the poor parentless child to the orphanage, lived in seclusion and probably never have to deal with Maleficent.
While P.H. was busy cleaning up, he was surprised to be interrupted by Carlos giving him a hug, gripping him tightly as if he never wanted to let go. Realizing just how emotional the day had been, he had returned the hug with just as much fervor. He loved his nephew and as hard as it would be to see him go, he knew it was for the best and would make sure he could have the best life he could.
That life was away from the Isle.
"I don't know what I would do without you," Carlos admitted to his fear for the future but also his appreciation, he never thought he would be parted from his uncle.
His nephew had gone through a growth spurt, he remembered when he was so little and could be easily held in his arms and carried around. Now he was taller than him and probably would grow some more. He was thankful they were able to grow the garden and eat well, the harsh Isle life had not stunted his growth as all de Vils were tall people, Cruella in particular.
He cupped his hands around Carlos' face, guided his head down so he may give his forehead an affectionate kiss.
"I am so proud of you," P.H. whispered, choking up on the thought of their departure, even if it may be years in the future. The exile, having to deal with Mal and Maleficent, everything was worth it if he could save Carlos. He felt that he had failed Cruella. The family had lost the case to save her from banishment, he failed to free her, and although there was probably nothing to be done because of lack of medical care on the Isle and it was not his expertise—he felt that he had failed her when she had died of child bed fever.
He would do right by his cousin, he would see her son take his rightful place in Auradon.
A similar occurrence was going on a several yards away from the warehouse. The trio were well fed and jovial; all three high with happiness.
"OK, I'll give it to you Mal, this is a rather ingenious plan," Jay admitted as they walked home.
"Wait, what was that? I didn't quite hear you," she joked as she cupped her ear and wanted Jay to repeat that she was right. He simply pushed her playfully for being so obnoxious.
Evie couldn't stop thinking about how well this could all work out. Not only would she avoid being sold to whatever disgusting henchman that wanted her, she would be furthering her studies under one of the more prestigious scientists that was banished. She wasn't an engineer, but she was certain she could learn enough to fake it. And she had hoped that maybe with their help, she could start to make distillers to create tinctures and elixirs for her future apothecary. With her knowledge of plants and chemistry, she was certain they could create something just as useful as a generator or dirt-less garden.
Most knew the story of P.H. de Vil. The only non-villain scientist that occupied the Isle, she had never even heard of anyone even referring to him as "mad." He was banished because he had tried to help his cousin, something completely unheard of. Even the wealthy nobles had no one vouch for them or try to free them. When she heard her mother gossiping about the strange and elusive scientists, she had done it with derision; other had mocked him for being sentimental and foolish. Evie had no memory of Cruella, she had died before she was born. Most had forgotten about her, the few that remembered her only said the woman was mad, and not the useful scientific kind either.
Evie thought P.H. was brave and honorable, loving his cousin so much that he risked banishment. She didn't know of anyone on the Isle, save Mal and Jay, who would have done anything so self-less for another person. She could only hope that someone would love her so much to risk so much.
Mal and Jay came pretty close; she snuck a peak at the handsome half djinn and wondered why he was going along with the plan.
Mal's my friend and he's her best friend…she probably told him to help. Mal is the next Leader, she sees me as useful. The Isle certainly needs an apothecarist more than they need another whore.
While she was their friend, she couldn't compete with the years of friendship the two had under their belt. She still felt like a third wheel, she often wondered what they saw in her that they felt she was worthy of their time. Everyone knew that Jay was being groomed to be Mal's second; the two teens were in line to be the two most powerful people on the Isle.
She didn't know why they cared enough to befriend a girl bound for a life on her back, but she was grateful nonetheless.
The gravity of what they were doing suddenly hit her. As much as this would help her, it could also go so wrong if they were found out. Ravenna would certainly be incensed at the deception, everyone kept telling her how much her daughter was bound to make, Evie was considered the fairest in all the Isle. The former queen would complain to Maleficent, the fae would be a terror to behold if she felt she had been duped and made the fool. Mal might be the only one to come out alive; herself, Jay, and the de Vils would probably be put to death for conspiracy and treason.
Certainly Mal and Jay knew this, still they were willing to deceive the most dangerous women on the Isle in order to help her.
Mal and Jay turned around when they noticed Evie had stopped walking. They were worried when she had a faraway look in her eyes and tears threatening to spill.
Jay was baffled, he thought they were all happy and relieved. But whatever was upsetting Evie he would fight and break its knees if only to get her to stop crying.
"Are you alright?" Mal asked, wondering what was going through the blue haired girl's head. She and Jay were surprised when the witch's daughter launched herself at them, hugging them both with all the strength she had.
"I am so grateful for what you're doing for me," she hiccupped and said through some tears.
Oh, this is some emotional thing.
Mal was aware of what was going on. She gave the mandatory pat on Evie's back and told her everything was going to be alright. She had no idea if that was true but it usually made people feel better.
There were several seconds that went by, Evie was still holding onto them for dear life and mumbling. It seemed she was the only one who noticed it was an oddly long hug; Jay comfortingly rubbed his hands up and down Evie's back, willing to prolong the embrace for as long as she needed.
Mal slipped from the hug and it seemed neither other teen noticed.
Evie kept rambling on about how thankful she was and the dangers, how lucky she was to have them as her friends.
Despite the enormity of the situation, Mal couldn't help but give Jay shit.
"Oh Jay, you're my hero," she mouthed behind Evie's back, knowing he understood her silent mocking.
He was not amused, his first instinct was to go punch her in the arm but he refused to let Evie go.
The madam's daughter didn't notice Mal's absence; she only knew how safe she felt within Jay's arms.
"Jay, it's you who I want to lose my virginity to and have a dozen long blue haired babies with your dreamy arms."
When Mal made a heart with her hand and had it pumping as if both were so obnoxiously in love, he flipped off his best friend and swore revenge, all the while Evie was oblivious and still sputtering about how she appreciated everything.
Evie had stopped just before Mal started in on obscene and lewd hand gestures, when she finally pulled away and looked at them both; the fae had put on a false face of solemnity,
"Of course Evie, you're our friend. We would do whatever it took to help you."
Evie smiled and Mal thought that perhaps she would have helped her even if Jay wasn't so desperately in love with her.
Jay wondered where he could find a sock full of iron nickels to beat his best friend with, not liking how she looked at Evie.
They walked her home and the madam was none the wiser. While Ravanna worried her daughter's maidenhead might be stolen by either Jay or Mal before she could sell it, she knew Maleficent was good for the money if either had sullied her daughter. She also hoped that when Evie would take over the brothel, she would have powerful friends. Both were respectful and Evie swore on her honor that neither had designs for her virginity and that was good enough for the madam.
They said their goodbyes and as soon as both were out of earshot, Mal started in again,
"Oh Jay, I want you to have the right of First Night, I'll rub your lamp all you want," she did a poor impression of Evie and Jay was not having it.
He lunged for the fae but she was quicker, laughing as she dodged his grasp. When he finally caught up to her, he spun her around while she continued to laugh. He started to tickle her,
"Noooo, stoooppp," she squirmed and the continued to wrestle with each other.
"You're a jerk, you know that?" he finally stopped when he had maneuvered them to the ground, she was trapped underneath him.
"I know, I can't help it. It's so painful to see you pine."
"I'm not pining," he whined. "I'm strategically waiting for the best moment."
"And when will that be? You're been 'strategizing' for like a year."
"When she's not traumatized from nearly being sold."
Mal guessed that was a noble and virtuous reason, but she was pretty sure her friend was just being a coward. They had known Evie far longer than when Ravanna had revealed her plans for her daughter; Jay had been in love with Evie basically ever since he met her. But if that was the excuse that got him through the day, she doubted he would admit to it and she wouldn't push.
She then suddenly flipped them and she was now on top,
"Well Prince Charming, you better make a move soon or perhaps I'll try my luck."
"You wouldn't."
"I might…Consort Evie…has a nice ring to it, doesn't it?"
Jay growled in jealousy and threw Mal off of him, she continued to laugh when he gave chase.
Neither noticed they were being watched from a window of the brothel, Evie sighing at their antics and wondered what they were laughing about.
Why would Jay want the daughter of a whore when he could be Consort?
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