Legacy of Evil

by psychic.refugee99

Crown Prince Ben had declared that children of villains be given a second chance and invites the four children of the most notorious villains. Mal, Carlos, Evie, and Jay try to navigate Auradon Prep with the burden of an Evil Legacy.

8. Chapter 8

Thank you to Carolina and Guest for reviewing!

Thank you all for waiting, at least it's a really big chapter!

*** indicate a scene with adult situations. If you prefer not to read that, that's where to stop and pick up at the next three asterisks.

---

It had been obvious to Mal that Auradon was not the Isle since she step foot on the kingdom's soil. The air was cleaner, the sky was actually blue, and there were so many things Auradonians did that just didn't happen on the island.

Nothing could have prepared her for the concept of "Spirit Week."

An entire week dedicated to a show of how much students loved their school and hated their arch rivals, Sherwood Forest College High School. It sort of reminded her of the gang activity of the Isle, only the islanders weren't as ostentatious or obnoxious. It seemed to her that the school had to make up things to care about, their lives not having the everyday stressors such as food shortages and bodily threats.

She thought it was incredibly stupid and a waste of time, but the beaming excited faces of her friends held her tongue. She also felt she couldn't complaint that much when Evie essentially did all the hard work, all Mal had to do was show up for fittings and wear whatever the witch put in front of her.

Monday – Pajama Day

The fae frowned at the concept, thinking sleep wear was not something she wanted to parade in public with. Particularly since her boyfriend liked to sleep in his boxers, she wasn't happy to have others see what only she should.

"No, not what we literally would sleep in. This is still a school, it's just a chance to dress up super comfortably. Some will probably try to get away with wearing little to nothing, namely Doug, but the band explained most just wear a simple t-shirt and fleece bottoms with cute patterns," Evie explained to her.

It was still stupid, but Evie had a manic look in her eyes when she planned every outfit for the week and Mal knew to keep quiet when her friend got like that.

Evie's enthusiasm made more sense when the fae found out there was a pseudo competition between the grades for who had the most "Spirit." There was no discernable point system or any way to tell who actually "won" but it was a cut-throat all out competition nonetheless that Evie planned to win.

That's how Mal found herself wearing a tabby grey kitten onesie the first day of Spirit Week.

Evie had to call on every ounce of will power she had to not laugh with glee when faced with Mal's utter contempt while she wore such a cute outfit.

"You look like Beezy!" the cerulean haired witch couldn't contain her excitement.

They looked towards the feline in question who had taken to lounging on Mal's bed during school hours; he didn't seem impressed with the comparison.

"I look like an idiot," Mal dispassionately moaned as she looked in the mirror.

Beezy meowed, affronted. With a flick of his tail, he escaped from the window and sought more accommodating company.

"A cute idiot, and we're all wearing a onesie. Come on Mal, it's supposed to be fun. Loosen up."

"I can't take you seriously when you're a unicorn."

Evie twirled, clearly having way too much fun when she looked so ridiculous.

"That's the point Mal, it's not supposed to be serious."

If they hadn't been friends for so long, and the fact Evie was dressed up as well, she would have thought the witch was trying to play a joke on her. But she trusted her friend and walked boldly out their dorm and to class.

Regardless of how she looked, she wasn't about to let anyone tell her she was too silly or feel small.

Then she saw Jay and Carlos in their outfits, a teddy bear and panda respectively, and a smile escaped her lips.

"OK," she admitted to Evie, "we do look really cute."

And she felt more comfortable than before when the boys were smiling and having fun with it as well.

She had to keep reminding herself that she wasn't on the Isle, she was no longer heiress to the Leadership and her mother wasn't around. She didn't need to keep up a ruthless reputation and it was alright to be silly and have fun. She breathed in deep and pushed away the fear that if she were to show an ounce of weakness or vulnerability then she'd be razed down low; her mother nor any rival was there to admonish her or worse.

Maleficent is trapped on the Isle. Her magic is bound and she has no power here.

She felt as long as she repeated that over and over again in her mind, she'd be OK. She smiled and forced herself to relax and have fun.

She didn't even object when Jay took a group photo to immortalize the moment.

She still didn't understand the point, but she couldn't argue with the results. It seemed that everyone was having so much fun they forgot the four were from the Isle.

It was the first time anyone had smiled at them, and it wasn't in contempt or mockingly.

"Oh Mickey in Disneyland, you guys are so cute!"

"Nice."

"Yeah, Seniors!"

They got complements all day, even some high fives and fist bumps. Evie was right, most had just worn t-shirts, some with funny sayings on them, and fleece bottoms. The popular footwear was fuzzy slippers. Only a few were brave enough to wear something more extreme.

Such as Doug and the rest of the brass section, they had opted for Victorian nightgowns and night caps, each had an unlit candle in a candle holder in one hand and a pillow in the other. Whenever they passed a teacher, they would immediately find a flat surface and pretend to fall asleep.

"Noice onesies guy," Doug admired their sleepwear. "I didn't even know they made adult ones."

"They don't, Evie made them for us," Mal informed him.

"No shit?" to say he was impressed was an understatement, the quality rivaled anything he'd seen in a store. "Think you could make one for me?"

"Me too! I want a monkey," a nearby percussionist jumped at the chance.

"I want a narwhal," the bass player requested.

"What's a narwhal?" Doug asked his fellow band member.

"They're the unicorns of the sea, read a book."

Evie was slightly overwhelmed at all the people talking, each clamoring for one of her designs.

"You guys, email Evie your requests and she'll give you an estimate," Mal said to calm them all down. They all nodded enthusiastically, whipping out their smart phones and working on Mal's demand.

"You'll have that castle in no time," Mal smiled to her friend. She was rewarded with the witch's beautiful smile, unbelieving that her dream was coming true faster than she thought.

---

Queen Belle grinned when she saw Mal in her usual spot, but instead of the Auradon Prep uniform, she wore what looked like a fluffy grey Persian tabby cat costume. Upon closer inspection, it was a large onesie; like the ones she would have Ben wear when he was younger.

She sighed at the memory of her Crown Prince toddling around in a lion onesie, practicing his roar.

She walked over to the teen,

"Hi Mal, do you need any help with your homework or checking books back in?"

"Hi Ms. Charisse, no thank you. Ms. Millechoses was around to process my books back in. Might need you to check these out, though."

Belle felt a little guilty for keeping the pseudonym going with the teen, she had never thought she would have started a friendship with the fae. She normally used the false name to keep undercover when she wanted to escape to her favorite library. But as time went on, and she made it a point to talk to the Isle teen whenever she was in town, she felt like she was living some double life.

Although part of her was a little put out Mal didn't recognize her, she was Queen of all Eighteen Kingdoms after all.

I'll tell her, just have to find the right time.

In the meantime, she looked at the stack and saw it was rather substantial and none of them looked to be required reading. Her curiosity got the better of her and she started to pick them and read from them. Mal didn't seem to mind, although Belle thought logically,

Why would she? I'd have to see them in order to check them out.

Fairy Lineage Through the Ages
Fae Genetics – A Mendelian Study
Fairkind Families of Auradon
Inheritance Law for Children and Grandchildren

"Interesting reading, Mal. Are you researching something specific?"

Trying to figure out Carlos' father.

"I thought to look up my own roots, Auradon Prep doesn't really offer comprehensive fae history other than as tertiary figures to humans and dwarves," Mal said out loud.

Mal didn't seem all that upset or surprised, she kept on reading and making notes. She said it as cavalier as if she was describing the sky.

"I thought Professor FéeMarraine had a specific class on Fae History in Auradon?" Belle was a bit surprised that Mal wasn't in the class as she clearly had an interest.

"She does, and I'm not in it. So maybe her lectures are different; but I got ahold of her reading list and pretty much every book is written by a human, one is written by a Dwarf but it's just his point of view of the Fae War. I'm assuming there are fae other than Maleficent. And given Professor FéeMarraine's tendency towards…" she struggled to describe what she found out about her and Jane's drastic measures to appear human, she didn't know to call it self-hatred or perhaps it was self-preservation. Either way, she felt there were clear human leaning biases.

She was also hesitant to say it to an Auradonian adult, she didn't want to seem anti-UKA or something; it was the last headache she needed.

"…it seems like Professor FéeMarraine has been in Auradon for a very long time."

Belle frowned, unsure what Mal was implying. After a pregnant pause, the Queen understood that the teen wasn't going to expound upon her comment.

"I do have a response to your criticism of Friar Lawrence."

"Oh?"

"Yes, so Juliet could not simply wait to be exiled as the family would have found out where she went. She had very few to no options, so they would have paid attention to where she went if kicked out. It also would have been rather odd if Juliet was ambivalent about potentially becoming disowned. She is also the only child of a prominent noble, so it's highly unlikely she would have been banished quietly, even if she tried to subtly go to Romeo, she would have been reported by someone, even if the Capulets didn't have someone specifically keep tabs on her. So they could have figured out she married Romeo before she and Romeo were reunited, and put her under permanent house arrest. The hatred was deep enough where they'd probably rather have their daughter live a de facto spinster than have her married to a Montague. Regardless if they banished her, the Capulets would have been rather 'put out' to say the least their only child had married into their enemy's family if Juliet had managed to make it to Romeo. There were probably other hot headed Tybalt-like cousins that would have stormed the Montague abode and where Romeo was exiled. So in order to prevent further bloodshed and allow them to put 'Juliet Capulet' to rest and never look for her again, she would need to have 'died.'"

Mal contemplated the older woman's take on the story, but she still wasn't totally convinced.

"I agree the Capulets would have found out about Romeo and Juliet if she had waited to be disowned. But I'm not sure if they would have done much; Juliet would have embarrassed them enough for snubbing the Prince's kin, Paris, that they may have just washed their hands of her. It would have also gotten out, assuming the Friar would have come forth with the truth, that she and Romeo were legitimately married and furthermore had consummated said marriage. So she basically lost all 'value' as a marriage pawn, an annulment impossible. Plus there's also Prince Escalus, he was fed up with the two families at the beginning of the story. He had exiled Romeo and already lost a cousin to the feud. I highly doubt he was going to be lenient to anyone from either family stepping out of line, no matter who started it. The Capulets would have not only been going against Prince Escalus' decree to stop the bloodshed, could they survive the bad press that they hunted their own daughter? A potentially pregnant daughter? What the Friar should have done was take Juliet to the Montagues, work with them to get her to Romeo, and then work on a way to start undermining the Capulets."

Belle wasn't sure what to say, she didn't think a teenager would have been capable of being so pitiless.

"What if the Montagues rejected Juliet?"

"Romeo is exiled, they probably would have been glad he found himself a wife at all. I also imagine that since it's their son and not their daughter, they'd be a little more forgiving. 'Boys will be boys' and that bullshit…sorry…You know what I mean."

Unfortunately, Belle knew more than most how much boys and men were able to get away with and felt the foul language was justified.

"I also feel like Signor Montague would have found it hilarious his son managed to marry Capulet's only child. Like I said, the Capulets lost a marriage pawn and would probably be embarrassed in front of all Verona. Add that it was Montague's son that did it? That's what I believe you Auradonians call 'the cherry on top.' Juliet also potentially carried their legitimate grandson and heir to House Montague. Despite hating her family, she's nobly born. In any other scenario she probably would have been a potential, if not primary choice bride for him. They're not going to reject her."

Belle found herself, again, contemplating her favorite book in ways she had never thought of before. She always knew she'd have a mid-life or existential crisis over a book, she just didn't think it'd be over Romeo and Juliet.

"Ms. Charisse" then asked about Mal's other readings, wondering if she had such insights to other novels or was Romeo and Juliet a one off.

Although she had her reading she wanted to do, Mal was more than happy to talk to the library aide.

Belle enjoyed another afternoon of conversation about literature.

Tuesday – Twin Day

It was only the pure love of friendship that Evie and Mal shared that had the latter up even earlier than normal.

"Whyyyyyyyy," Mal whined quietly as she let Evie do her hair.

"Because it's twin day, Mal. That means we have to match."

The fae teen's eyes glazed over, hearing what Evie said but not really processing it. She desperately wanted to go back to sleep. She rested her eyes and the next moment she opened them, she was in front of the Neptune Stairs.

"How did we get….?" Mal asked, baffled at how she went from their room to outside of school.

"Mal, you slept through getting dressed and breakfast. You really can sleep anywhere," Evie explained, amused.

Mal only rubbed her eyes to get the last of sleep out of them, blinking quickly to finally realize where she was and what she was wearing.

She and Evie wore matching scoop neck sweater dresses, dyed in a galaxy color palette. It reminded her of their first night in Auradon and seeing their first starlit sky, the most pronounced colors were orchid and lapis. Their form fitting jeans were simple and flattering, their outfit finished with black knee high boots.

So impressed with her outfit, she almost didn't notice her hair was a different color as it fell into her face when she turned to look at her outfit at different angles.

"My hair is blue," she looked to Evie and saw that her hair had changed as well. Somehow she had slept through her friend dying their hair an ombré of magenta and cerulean. The top of her hair was her natural purple but ended with Evie's natural hair color. The witch's hair was inversed.

"Magic?" she mouthed, knowing there was no way she slept through an actual hair dye. Evie nodded, proud that her spell work had turned out so well. Mal was proud of her too, the lessons clearly helping.

Looking around as other students started to make their way to the academic building, their idea of twin day was more toned down. Most wore matching outfits they got from chain department stores, nothing handmade or tailored; definitely none of them had gone as far as dying their hair.

Pride bloomed in Evie's chest,

I'm going to win Spirit Week.

Even though there was no official tally or even prize, she was going to crown herself the winner and no one could convince her otherwise.

She was especially proud when Jay and Carlos joined them; they had both followed her directions perfectly.

Jay had his hair down, the dress code was relaxed in all things during Spirit Week, and half his hair was a shimmering pearl, matching Carlos' lighter shade flawlessly. She wondered which had done the spell, there was no other way to get such a colour or to do it so pristinely without magic. Their outfits were counterchanging of red, black, and white.

The way the others students praised them for their original outfits and commitment to Spirit Week, it didn't seem like anyone could tell they had used magic to change their appearance.

Again, the only ones who came close to their level of Spirit Week were the band. Doug led the charge as someone with sunglasses, slicked backed hair, and perfectly pressed suits.

"Are you supposed to be someone specific?" Carlos asked, wondering why they chose that specific outfit to twin, or to septuplet.

"Yeah, we're Agents from the Matrix," Tyler from percussion said, as if it were the most obvious thing in the world.

All four Isle kids shook their heads, they had no idea what he was talking about.

"Oh my gods, movie night. Tonight. Stat. Cannot be held off, it is blasphemy to have never seen The Matrix."

All other members of the band had agreed. It was of paramount importance that the Isle Four see the movie trilogy, even though the movies were about as old as they were.

Mal put the kibosh on movie night, especially since it seemed there were three of them and rather long.

"OK, Sunday night. That's the night," the band acquiesced immediately; they all remembered they had a ton of homework and papers to do as well.

It had nothing to do with being slightly afraid of Mal. Nothing.

---

That night, it was the first free one any of them had in weeks. Coach had given them a rest night as they had been practicing so hard the previous weeks. They were under strict orders to eat well and rest up, the next day they would be at their regular schedule.

All their homework was done and Evie's wardrobe choices were ready to go.

Jay, again, was in her room and they had undone the glamors that spelled their hair into other colors. A gentle run of their hands through each other's hair had left a trail of blue and gold sparkling light, their hair going back to normal.

But they weren't done with playing with each other's magic. Evie trailed her hands softly over his arms and the blue light followed wherever she touched. Jay shivered at the magic that flowed from her to him. He had returned the favor, his magic going straight to her core and feeling herself slick with want.

It seemed forever since the last time they were intimate and neither were going to waste the evening. He gently pulled at her clothing, knowing how much effort she had put into the outfit, he would never think to destroy or tear anything she created.

Hungry kisses and luxuriating in his long hair, she led them to her bed. Soon both were disrobed, their magic light dancing upon their skin.

He easily lifted her off the ground and gently laid her on the bed. He worshiped every inch of exposed skin with soft kisses and nips, she would giggle at how his five o'clock shadow would tickle her sensitive spots.

She thought two could play at that game and went straight for his weak spot, just below his ear on his neck. She felt him shiver at her ministrations and felt his leaking hardness against her stomach. From his desperate sounds he wanted to go further, but he was always respectful of her boundaries and never went further without her permission.

Evie felt a power high from his restraint, knowing she could probably make him wait forever and he would. But she had mercy on him, and her own desire to move forward, and guided his hand to her core. He slowly slid one finger in, always to make sure she was ready for more. Soon he added a second and she sighed at the feeling of being full, eager for more.

"More," she commanded, her breathing ragged and hard.

Jay then added a third, easily sliding in and from her bucking hips he was confident she was properly ready for him.

"I want you in me," she mewled, getting desperate for more than just his fingers.

"Are you sure?" he asked, always wanting her to be sure and that it was what she wanted.

They were also playing a dangerous game, one that could ruin everything they worked for but in that moment, she didn't want anything more in her life.

"Yes…please," she begged.

He obeyed and lined himself to her entrance. Although he was almost in pain with how much he wanted to be inside her, he would never forgive himself if he had ever hurt her in any way. He inched in slowly, in awe of the pleasure of how tight and wet she was. He wished he could make the feeling last forever, but he pumped in and out of her; the pace enough for them to feel every part of each other but not to lose control.

The sensation almost too much for Evie, she gripped his back tightly and he knew he'd have her marks down his back in the morning.

All she wanted was more of Jay, desperate to have him she begged,

"Please Jay, go faster."

"No," the only time he would deny her. "I'll lose control."

But he did add power to his thrusts, angling himself in a way that he knew from practice hit a particular spot that had Evie all but screaming in delight.

He then reached between them, wanting her pleasure to come first and rubbed at her pearl and within minutes her core was convulsing around him with her climax.

So he would not spill within her, he pulled out and was about to finish himself off, she had grasped him. They looked deep into each other's' eyes and she started to pump his shaft, slick with her juices. They were both sweating with their exertions, hair a mess but he didn't think she had ever looked more beautiful to him. Her soft hands firmly gripped him and pumped steadily and she quickened her pace as his moans grew louder. Soon he shivered his own release, thick ropey spurts of cum landed onto her stomach, he came harder at the thought of his scent marking her as his.

When he was fully spent, he rolled off of her and lay on his back next to her. For the next few moments, they got their breathing under control and their mixed releases cooled.

Evie had enough practice with the cleaning spell that she need not say anything out loud; a simple movement of her hand and all evidence of their passions were erased.

The thought of marking Evie as his grew louder in his head, he couldn't get it to stop and he had a suddenly epiphany.

"I love you," he said to her as she was about to succumb to sleep.

She was not expecting such a declaration and she was suddenly wide awake, her mouth open in shock and unsure of how to even articulate words.

He felt like an idiot for not thinking things through and suddenly springing such a thing on her.

"I know we're been kind of casual this whole time and I get I just kind of blurted it out…but I just couldn't keep it to myself…you don't have to say anything back. But I do love you."

He then kissed her gently and held her close, keeping his promise that she didn't have to say anything.

While she had a hard time speaking, her thoughts whirled through her head like a tempest. So many questions bounced around her mind and she had no idea how to answer them that she didn't get any sleep that night.

Jay didn't seem to have that same problem as he breathed deeply and gently in sleep, looking peaceful.

Anyone else she might have kicked him out of her room while she contemplated the new shift in their relationship. But she didn't want to be alone and she felt safe and warm within his arms. It was selfish to use him as a security blanket while he confessed his feelings and she didn't reciprocate, but she couldn't bring herself to leave the sanctuary of his arms.

Even the next morning while they got ready for another theme day for Spirit Week, he didn't pressure her to give an answer or even give a hint of what happened last night. He simply kissed her goodbye while he snuck back to his dorm and Mal snuck back in.

She desperately wanted to tell someone what happened, but she didn't know if Mal was the right person to talk to; the fae was Jay's best friend and she wasn't sure how she would react.

So she kept quiet while they got into costume.

Wednesday – 90's

"Why are you wearing what looks to be a riding dress, with petticoat and lace?" Amy Kingsleigh asked. Curious as to why the Isle Four were dressed so drastically different than everyone else. "And why are the boys in similar era suits?"

"Well the poster said 90's. I didn't like the look of the 1990's, so I chose the 1690's, specifically 1697. Mal had found all these great books for me about fashion through the centuries and I just fell in love," Evie excitedly told the cheerleader, twirling so they could see every angle of her masterpiece.

She was grateful for Spirit Week as it was a great distraction from her inner turmoil.

The entire cheer team was in track pants or super wide legged baggy jeans and had several plastic bracelets and chokers; their hair in interesting twists or ponytails and crimped. The tourney team, with the exception of Jay and Carlos, were all decked out with frosted highlights, Raybans, and spikey hair.

"Damnit!" Doug exclaimed when he saw them, his hair bleached platinum blond and as curly as a poodle's. "Yours is way funnier."

Him and ten others were dressed as 'N Sync and the Backstreet Boys,

Whatever those are.

Although she knew they were all speaking Common, Mal had a hard time understanding Auradonians often.

"I told you guys, we should have done a musical number."

Doug hated, in a friendly way, that he was losing Spirit Week to newcomer Evie.

"We didn't have time to come up with choreography," Jesse of woodwind defended themselves.

"Evie has created three intricate outfits for four people and I'm pretty sure she has something amazing for the Homecoming Dance. You're all just lazy," he flippantly told his band mate. A small push fight broke out but no one was seriously hurt as no one was truly angry.

Although it was true to the time, 'Nsync won the fight against the Backstreet boys.

---

Evie and Mal were in their own dorm, doing their homework while the boys were at practice.

"Jay said he loved me," Evie finally admitted after keeping it in all day, unable to focus on her Calc homework any longer; breaking the silence of their study time.

Mal's eyebrows shot up in surprised, she hadn't thought their relationship was like that and wondered why Jay hadn't said anything to her. She also wondered why Evie hadn't gone to Carlos.

"What'd you say?"

"I was too surprised to say anything. I'm still trying to digest it. He said I didn't have to say anything, but I feel like that's not true, at least not forever. I know I can't ignore this, and he's going to need an answer at some point. But I'm still at a loss at what to tell him."

"Do you want me to get Carlos?"

Evie thought about it, he would be better at empathy in most cases, but she didn't think this would be one of them. While most assumed Jay and Carlos were best friends while Mal and Evie were as well, it mostly stemmed from assuming their friendship split along gender lines. But Evie and Carlos always felt the other was their sibling.

"No…I just don't think he'd understand…he's only ever been in one relationship and he found the love of his life on his first try. I don't think he'd see things impartially."

Mal tried not to preen at Evie's observation of her relationship, but understood what Evie wanted. Whether Carlos wanted to admit it or not, he was a romantic at heart and probably not what Evie needed at the moment.

"Well, then what do you feel?"

"Another question I don't know the answer to."

Evie was hesitant to say even more. Although she felt Mal was the closest thing she'd ever get to a sister, she knew her and Jay went back far longer than she and Mal did. Jay and Mal had grown up with each other having their back; something precious and rare on the Isle.

But she needed to get this off her chest and Mal would at least give her a chance to explain herself and not go running to Jay.

"It's just that…a big reason we got together was because of you and Carlos."

"Me and Carlos?" Mal had no idea what her relationship had to do with her and Jay.

"Yeah, it's like you two started to date, and me and Jay just kind of hung together because we didn't have anyone else. And then you and Carlos were just so…couple-y. We both started to feel like we were fourth wheels…"

"Isn't that normally how many wheels there ought to be?"

"…and just felt left out. So one night, we were bored and just looked at each other and he was like 'want to try making out?' And he was the first guy who asked if I wanted to, instead of just assuming I would because I worked in a brothel. He was hot, so I was like '…sure.' So it just went from there. Even less guys bothered me anymore because I was friends with you and then I was dating Jay. I was basically untouchable. We got together because of convenience and mutual hotness."

Mal simply listened, her friend needed to work through her thoughts.

"And then we got to Auradon Prep. We both flirted with a lot of people and neither of us seemed to care. So I thought we were just still together for fun. And I guess I always thought that we'd find birth control and…"

Evie looked hesitant and unsure she ought to say what she wanted to say next.

"And?" Mal asked, encouraging her friend to go on.

"And I thought I would have sexy adventures."

"Sexy adventures?"

Mal was genuinely confused, not judgmental.

"Yeah, like in all those books our mothers didn't want us to read. Like I'd meet a prince, a geeky but somehow super ripped hottie, a sweet sensitive musician that loves farmer's markets – whatever those are – and a brainless jock that has a horde of puppies and I'd get to sleep with all of them with zero consequences. Like I'd just really be able to rub it in my mother's face I wasn't a virgin and that it didn't matter."

Mal tried to remember if she read any of these books and she couldn't. It seemed more wishful thinking than any actual literature that existed.

"But Auradon Prep is nothing like the books. The guys are hot and all, but they're all such jerks. Like Chad, I totally would have considered him if he had just shut up. But no, they all open their mouths and I just…ughhh…can't."

"What about Doug? He's cute and nice."

"He is, and I love that broad shoulder sexy miner-slash-warrior look most Dwarves have but he's all 'I can only date Dwarfish girls, otherwise my mom would kill me.' Like if he can't decide for himself who he wants to date or if staying within his culture is that important, then pass. I don't need that drama."

Mal agreed the pickings were slim at Auradon Prep. Although part of it, at least to her, was that no one could compare to Carlos and that made her particularly disinterested.

"It sounds like to me that you want to see what else is out there. Even though what is convenient to you isn't much. There are people outside of Auradon Prep, and if you want to explore all your options then that's what you should do. I mean we've been putting together college application packets, that might be the time you can really…experiment."

Evie was surprised at how unbiased and understanding Mal was being. She was certain she would be offended on Jay's behalf and berate her for not returning the feelings of such a great and basically perfect guy.

"Look, I love Jay." as if reading Evie's mind. "He's been my best friend since we were like seven. I wouldn't try to convince you to stay with him when you weren't 100% enthusiastic about him. He deserves that and more. In true Jay fashion, it sounds like he kind of just realized his feelings and sprung it on you. So it's fair to give you space and time to figure it out. But he doesn't deserve to be treated like a place holder until you find better options. It sucks that he fell in love with someone who may not reciprocate. But it's better to be heartbroken now, than later and finding out parts of your relationship was a lie. It's the lying that truly hurts."

Evie took in what she said, remembering the not so distant past where Mal learned that lesson that hard way.

"So, if you want to be single then be single. And that's just how it is and he'll accept that. But you should tell Jay soon, at least as soon as you really know."

"That's part of the problem, I don't know if I really know. Because you're right, Jay is amazing. He's sweet, polite, super fun to be around, funny, amazingly hot, and listens in bed…"

It was starting to go into too much information territory but Mal wasn't sure if she ought to stop Evie's train of thought.

"OK, I have a confession. You have to promise not to be mad."

"That's not how feelings work," she mostly said that because she knew she could never make any such promise and was already anxious as to what Evie would be scared to tell her.

"Fine, you just can't yell at me."

"O….K…."

"…Jay and I have been having unprotected sex."

Mal gasped, whatever she was expecting it wasn't that.

After everything we've seen in the brothels?! With everything we have to lose in Auradon?!

"Wait," Evie said quickly, seeing the horrified emotions cross her friend's face. "Remember that you and Carlos had sexy fun times in a closet in a public museum and could have gotten caught."

That took the wind out of Mal's sails and she held in every admonishment she had ready at the tip of her tongue.

"It's just that Jay has gotten so much more muscular and I can't keep my hands off him. Plus he's so aggressive on the tourney field and I can't stop thinking of how powerful he is in bed and my brain stops working. The band told us about 'pull and pray' and none of them are pregnant…so…we thought it would be OK?"

Saying it out loud, Evie knew it sounded ridiculous but in the throes of passion, it was believable and made perfect sense.

I'm going to kill Doug.

Several emotions whirled through Mal and she knew the Dwarf was a bad influence, her face couldn't decide on which expression it ought to exhibit. Evie took it as a good sign she wasn't immediately vaporized by magic or set on fire.

"Eves, look…I'm not angry," Mal had decided to be pragmatic and mostly told the truth. "It's just that the brothels have P.O.O.T. and it's basically the same thing and plenty have gotten pregnant."

"But at least we get our moon blood regularly now and could tell sooner."

"No, that's worse because it means we're ovulating regularly now."

"Oh, right," although it took a few minutes for Evie to recall what ovulating meant.

"Did you read that book I got you from the library?"

"Well…I started it but then all my other homework built up and I can't read as fast as you…so I returned it so you wouldn't get a late fee."

"I am going to check it out again and Xerox the important parts."

Evie didn't want more reading but perhaps it was useful information that she really needed to know.

"OK, you're having sex with Jay…anything else?"

There was nothing Mal could do about it now and she doubted they would stop.

"It's just that I really trust Jay. That's what I wanted to tell you."

"I guess I don't understand the problem. I mean, I'm no expert but you're attracted to him, he treats you very well, he's awesome, you trust him…that sounds like love to me."

"Yeah but…"

Evie took a deep breath and tried to articulate her feelings as best she could.

"…what if we're only together because we're each other's only option? Or second choice? I mean if Carlos wasn't in the picture, would you two have gotten together?"

"No, seriously," she insisted at Mal's incredulous look. "Like you two were friends for so long and none of us are bad looking. It's something a lot of people wondered. I remember your mom asking if he was to be consort."

"Eves, it's just not like that between me and Jay. Yeah we both considered it but it just never went anywhere. The fact that it didn't tells me it wouldn't have. Neither of us is exactly shy or indecisive about getting what we want. And who knows what would have happened if I didn't start dating Carlos. I mean, it just as easily could have been you I ended up with."

"Really?" Evie didn't think Mal had ever considered her as more than a friend, she was rather flattered.

Mal tried her best not to roll her eyes at how pleased Evie looked, but some things couldn't be helped.

"Yes, Evie. People asked about you too, just not in your presence because they were afraid of embarrassing me. My mother asked if you were to be consort at one point too…preferred you actually."

"Wow…Consort Evie. I think it has a nice ring to it," Evie lost in a short day dream of what could have been.

"Besides Eves, he said he loves you. Don't you think that means something? Particularly that he's not carrying some secret torch for me and waiting for me and Carlos to break up?"

"Sometimes men say things they know women want to hear," Evie admitted sheepishly, knowing it didn't really cast a great light on Jay and it wasn't necessarily fair for her to think such things about him. But it was a fear that ran deep in her and she couldn't ignore it.

"Since when do any of us say things we don't mean? I mean unless we were trying to steal from someone or trying to get away with something…but we don't do that to each other."

"It's what my dad did to get my mother to sleep with him," Evie couldn't look Mal in the eye when she said that, she only played with her hands and imaginary lint on her clothes; she hoped Mal wasn't too mad and didn't think she was a complete idiot.

It suddenly became clear where Evie was coming from. Her dad duped Ravenna into thinking she could escape the Isle and live in a castle, but he had lied and had completely abandoned her and her unborn child. Perhaps it was a fit of pique or madness, but sleeping with whores wasn't enough; he had wanted the Madam of Fleur de Pomme, or perhaps the lure of bedding The Evil Queen was a temptation he couldn't resist.

Mal made Evie look her in the eye and held her hands,

"No matter how rich or entitled your father is, he's trash and an idiot. I don't blame him for leaving your mother, she's terrible. But if he knew how wonderful and great his daughter would turn out to be, I'm sure he'd be kicking himself and come begging your forgiveness. He should have come back for you. If not to take you into his family then the very least he owed you was a nice family in Auradon."

Hearing Mal's words and the genuine look in her eyes was overwhelming for the witch, she felt her heart was set to jump out of her chest. Her whole life she thought she was nothing. Her mother thought she was just some pawn to marry off to whatever prince would have her and get them both off the Isle. Her father thought she was not even worth seeing once, otherwise how could he just leave her at the mercy of the Isle? Even if he didn't want to claim her, Mal was right, the very least he could have done was take her from the horrible fate of the island and give her to some peasant family in Auradon or even an orphanage.

She didn't even know what he looked like. She had been afraid to look him up; paranoid the faulty at Auradon Prep was looking through her internet search history and would wonder why she was interested in a noble a few kingdoms away.

Tears pooled from her eyes, the fae's kind words having a profound impact on her; tears gently rolling down her face. Mal had the rare gift of making people feel wanted; it was something Carlos had confided in her.

Between Jay's love and Mal's fierce declaration of her worth, it was all too overpowering and foreign to her.

"If Jay says he loves you, then he loves you," Mal insisted as she wiped away her tears. "He always had his choice of women and men, here in Auradon and on the Isle. There were plenty of whores, farmers' daughters, and merchants that had thrown themselves at him."

"I never saw or heard about that," Evie had doubted her friend.

"Because he always turned them down and they were too embarrassed to say anything…and afraid of you."

"Afraid of me?" Evie never had anyone fear her, not with Mal and Jay who were so much more formidable.

"You're the daughter of an infamous poisoner…and there was that one guy," Mal refused to expound upon that as Evie knew exactly whom she was talking about. "Anyway…they tended to not get in your way when it came to Jay."

This was a new revelation. Jay apparently had many other options to him on the Isle, and he had refused them. It wasn't as if she would know about any indiscretion, the Isle citizens were particularly discreet when it suited them and she spent all her time working in the brothel; her mother making sure her exposure to people kept at a minimum to maintain her virtue.

"And Jay has choices here too. Not all the cheerleaders are royal or have this weird obsession and fetish for virginity. And they aren't shy about what they want. You just haven't noticed because you've basically been living in the sewing rooms and our dorm. Jay's too nice to meanly reject them publicly no matter how bitchy their rumors get. I wonder if part of their motivation for spreading them is from hurt pride…maybe we should revisit our 'no cursing' policy," Mal considered as she got off topic.

"No, we aren't our parents. We can rise above."

"Ugh, I feel like they count on us to 'rise above' so their actions have no consequence. Back in Maleficent's day, a fae or enchantress would curse mortals for sneezing at them wrong. We have way better justification."

"No cursing."

"Fine. Anyway, neither of you are anyone's second choice or consolation prize. You have options both here and the Isle, but for the same reasons Jay had; you know none of them are worthy of you and you're with the best choice."

"Thanks Mal."

Evie had felt better to get so much off her chest. She wasn't that much closer to deciding, but it did relieve some insecurities she had held for a while.

"I'm going to the sewing room, I want to do some sketches and maybe start something new. Get my mind clear."

"Have fun."

Evie had been gone for only twenty minutes and it'd be another hour or so before the boys were free for dinner.

Mal couldn't concentrate, the numbers blurring on the worksheet and all she could see was Evie pregnant. She would be kicked out of school and Jay would go with her. Despite the witch's fears, the djinn would never abandon her or a child of his. Mal couldn't fathom leaving Jay, so she'd go and Carlos would follow. So if Evie got pregnant and kicked out, they were all screwed.

She wanted to be mad but another part of her, however, totally understood giving into temptation. With how often they were alone with each other, practically living together, she and Carlos had been coming closer and closer to penetrative sex. She couldn't honestly say they wouldn't be trying the "pull and pray" method in the near future.

But she hated the idea of their lovemaking being soured or tainted with fear. She didn't want to seem ungrateful but Auradon Prep was rather vexing her at the moment with their archaic rules against sex.

OK, what ingredients do I have on hand and what do I need to collect for tansy tea?

She abhorred resorting to the poison, but it was their best, and only, option and her patience was running out.

While she thought of the potion she severely wished not to have to take, out of her peripheral a book appeared. When she focused on the study table, there sat the Maledictae Grimoira. It had moved from the closet to the table on its own volition.

That can't be good.

It had looked the exact same as when she had put it away; evil and foreboding, the dark binding and sigil almost taunting her with how wicked it was.

She immediately picked it up and put it back in its hiding place.

As soon as she had turned around, the book was back on the table.

"Come on, don't do this," she told it in frustration. It had been almost two months since she had hidden it away, why was it showing itself now? She tried again to place it back in the closest but again, it had transported itself back to the table.

"OK, fine. I'll look at you," she hoped it was just bored or wanted attention. Certain magical items could take on a personality of their own. Perhaps she couldn't hide it away forever, but that didn't mean it could make her preform spells.

Thumbing through some pages she had seen:

Sphere of the Infinite Agonies
Blood and Eye Boiling
Eternity of Schadenfreudic Punishments

"Nope, nope, nope, nope; none of that. No thank you Book, but I shall have to pass. Get back to me when you have a birth control spell," she grabbed the Book and walked back to the closet, thinking of spells she could try to keep it hidden. But she didn't even make it half way towards the closet before the Book flung itself from her hands and back onto the table.

In front of her eyes the Book then flipped on its back and turned around, a green glow encompassed it and when the dust settled, it was now a light taupe; the binding looked almost like suede; the back was now the front. Instead of a dragon in profile spouting fire and in a fighting stance, it was now circular and had hold of its own tail in its mouth, it encompassed the fae rune for balance. Instead of black onyx, it was a burnished bronze.

"The Kreisdrache," she whispered in awe, gently caressing the sacred symbol she never thought she'd see in her lifetime.

She wasn't sure what was going on, the Maledictae Grimoira had gone from a dark book with its Feuerdrache sigil, a long held symbol of death and destruction, to the Kreisdrache which was the emblem of perfect balance and eternality; holding life and death in equal measure and representing the Endless. It was neither good nor evil; it just was.

The first page now read "Neudictae Grimoira." It was a completely different book, did her mother know about this version of it?

"OK, Book. You have my attention, what are you trying to tell me?"

As if understanding her, it opened itself and started to flip through pages swiftly. It landed on,

"Null Rune, use when no life nor death is wanted…are you serious? Is this a birth control spell?"

The Book glowed a warm green and Mal took that as a "yes."

"Has this damn spell been here the whole time?"

Again, the Book glowed a warm green and she wasn't sure why but she felt that answer was somewhat smug; as if the Book was telling her she ought not to have ignored it for so long and her problem could have been solved weeks ago.

"Rune must be etched under the stars while sky clad – great, we have to be naked – and must not be disturbed in order to work. Nullification works as long as rune is in intact. Rune must be etched on the abdomen, no lower than the pelvis. Ok, problem. This only works if it's undisturbed. If we're having sex and sweat or rubbing against each other then it's not going to stay. I'm certainly not going to cut this into us as I feel 'etching' is suggesting."

Mal was a bit disappointed as it didn't seem like a viable option.

"Do you have a suggestion to remedy this?"

What had her life come to where she was asking a book? But then again, books were what contained knowledge itself so it probably knew vastly more than she ever would.

The Neudictae Grimoira seemed flattered that she would actually ask its advice and it then flipped to another page.

"Sealing spell, creates permanent stasis of whatever its cast upon. This includes but is not limited to: runes, enchantments, and transfiguration. For physical items, it can permanently fix an item to a place. WARNING: If used on human, fae, or otherwise skin, it will burn. Use caution. Wow…ummm…wow…"

She couldn't believe it was so simple and in her possession this whole time. She had no idea the spell book contained non-harmful spells. A bubble of irritation at her mother, who never indicated the Maledictae Grimoira was anything other than a book of curses. Perhaps her mother thought she wouldn't need anything of the sort. Or perhaps the Book could sense the will of the owner, she certainly couldn't see Maleficent needing anything other than the evil part of the Book. Thankfully the Book seemed self-aware and cognizant. It just wanted to be useful and not ignored as it had been.

"Thank you Book, is there a removal spell for when we're much older and want kids?"

The Book flipped only one page and right next to the Sealing Spell was the Unsealing Spell.

"WARNING: Unsealing from skin burns twice as bad as Sealing. Damnit, of course. But still, we are in business. Where's my phone? Here's my phone. Texting Evie to get her ass back here. There, sent. Now lets see, what other goodies do you have, Book?"

---

Evie lost herself in fabrics and sketches, the stress of the day melting away from her.

She wasn't religious, her mother never instilled any favor towards any gods; they were merely there to be called upon if she were doing a spell but Ravenna had never bothered to try to teach her on an island with no magic, but if she did have to choose a religion then it'd probably be fashion. The studio was her temple, she felt at peace and comfortable like nowhere else in the world.

All she could focus on was pinning the mannequin, determined for each outfit to be perfect. She couldn't believe she was almost done making outfits she wanted to make, not just variations of the same skimpy lingerie for the whores. She wasn't forced to repair torn clothes for hours on end, the pile never getting any smaller. The only other Sisyphean task that competed with it was the laundry. Her mother didn't want her to ruin her hands by the harsh chemicals or constant hot water, so there were other brothel workers that did the most arduous cleaning but she had to help sort and fold. It felt like days sometimes where she'd sort a mile high pile of clothes, fold them, then the pile would reappear.

Instead of the sense of servitude with being the Fleur de Pomme's seamstress (or the closest things they had to one), in Auradon she was creating pieces. She was allowed to fully express herself through her designs and see them go from ideas in her head to paper and then to real life.

The fashion teachers were helpful and supportive. They were the only staff that had actually trusted her, they never once looked at her oddly or as if she was going to poison someone or steal anything. They allowed her free reign of the studio. She was given all access to all sewing machines and other supplies. For her personal projects she had to pay for the fabrics, but all buttons, lace, and other notions were still free to her; she was still frugal in her designs as she was more than aware of what everything costs and didn't want to be greedy.

Part of her had been afraid that her classmates would spread rumors about her creations, either to ruin the surprise at Homecoming or to disparage her attempts. Audrey had not been too subtle in her barbs that the Four had been doing better than any of the Auradonian students would think Isle children would do in Auradon. Or to make condescending remarks on how they thought it was "cute" or disingenuously "inspiring" that they would try to fit in. But it turned out there was an honor code amongst designers, everyone kept to their own work unless they asked for help.

When she gave sewing tips, none of them scoffed and dismissed her, they were thankful and shared some of their own if they saw her struggling.

With one last adjustment to Mal's neckline, she stepped back and admired her work. Weeks and hours upon hours of sweat, blood, and tears and there were four outfits she had made.

She was glad she was alone; tears of pride had trickled down her face. She didn't think anyone at Auradon Prep would understand, they had grown up with such privilege and abundance; but to her, to be able to follow a dream and make it a reality was something she didn't think she'd ever have a chance to do.

Luckily she was able to get herself together before another student had come in, wanting to work on their project in hopes of having it shown at the Winter Recital.

"Hey Evie," Fianna Skywalker greeted the blue haired student politely. "Wow, are you done with your Homecoming outfits?"

Evie nodded proudly, always ready to talk about her work.

"Yes, I put the finishing touches on. I just need Jay not to get any bigger and rip seams," she joked.

"Oh he has certainly filled out indeed," Fianna all but purred out, thinking of the Isle boy and what she'd like those arms to do for her.

Evie blinked rapidly, a little shocked at Fianna's declaration; it was the first time anyone at Auradon Prep had mentioned Jay without trepidation.

"You're so lucky to have guy friends who go along with Spirit Week," the other girl went on, not noticing her discomfort. "My last boyfriend wouldn't even consider matching outfits much less dying his hair or the intricate time period outfits. Jay looked ah-mazingly hot by the way, so thanks."

The Skywalker scion took a moment to laugh at her own joke, feeling comfortable enough with the villainess's daughter to do some idle gossip.

Evie felt an odd and ugly feeling bloom in her chest, Fianna's words twisting in her gut. She just nodded as if she were participating in the conversation, picking up a few sketches and acting as if she wasn't affected by what the other girl was saying.

Fianna absently stitched a project she was working on for class while she continued to chatter.

It did force Evie to think about how Jay never once complained during the week, even Carlos in private whined about the several layers of costume she had made. Jay took everything in stride, she had always thought that he was just that laid back; but perhaps given his proclamation, he did it for her.

During their nights together, he always asked about her projects and she knew she could babble on forever. Mal's eyes always glazed over and she knew the fae girl was only minutely paying attention.

Jay was never like that with her.

"And Jay is like, so polite; he always opens the doors for you and Mal, letting you go first. Boys here barely even remember to keep the door open for the person behind them; even the royals! You'd think they'd be the most polite people ever, but they're only like polite to other royals. Asses, amiright?"

Evie was so used to Jay and Carlos that she never really thought about it, but Fianna was right. Jay was always considerate and thoughtful, letting them go first through doors and in general. He also took heavy or cumbersome items when he saw someone struggling, all before anyone even asked. It wasn't a benign sexism thing either, he did it for everyone; not just the females. She knew the theatre and band kids were always grateful for his help.

Jay's always really sweet and thoughtful that way.

"And seeing Jay tackle people on the field, it just does something to me; know what I mean?"

She did and she really was starting to lose her patience when Fianna would just not stop talking. Mal was right, Jay had options in Auradon Prep, and would probably have even more as time went on and others realized how remarkable he was. The other students certainly had eyes and no one could deny Jay's charm and handsome looks, they were just now catching on that he wasn't a threat to them.

"Like Carlos is really cute too, but in a nerdy puppy sort of way. Jay just has a presence about him."

Evie started to reconsider her words to Mal, perhaps they ought to do non-life threatening curses; certainly to at least ward off unwanted advances.

If Fianna had been paying any attention or wasn't so self-absorbed, she probably would have noticed the glower Evie sported or the errant magic that started to charge the air with her annoyance.

Luckily the Auradonian born girl only had to repair a hem and was finished within the next few minutes. She put away her things and mentioned as she left,

"Tell Jay to text me, I'm sure there are several outfits we could come up with for all to enjoy. Great talk, see you tomorrow!"

The Skywalker girl literally had an entire conversation by herself and Evie knew that even if she wasn't dating Jay, she would never expose him to such a vapid creature. He certainly deserved more than someone who thought the world revolved around herself and wouldn't let anyone get in a word.

She looked to the tri-fold mirror and saw three reflections of herself. On the Isle she probably would have killed to have a mirror so big and that could give so many angles. Her mother certainly would have appreciated it. Her mother taught to her always look in a mirror before going anywhere, to make sure every hair was in place and her make up spotless. She had been taught to always look hard and long for any flaw and to correct it right away.

She was taught that how she looked was all that mattered; whatever was reflected in the mirror was the most important thing in the world.

With the help of her friends, she learned there were other things so much more import, something a mirror couldn't reflect back to her.

A mirror couldn't show her kindness, bravery, or intelligence. It took a while for her to see those within herself and that they should take precedence.

A mirror couldn't reflect the deep routed insecurity her mother instilled in her or the pain of her father's abandonment. She wished it did, she would have fixed those flaws long before she would have even noticed black heads, large pores, or supposedly undesirable hair.

Jay is amazing and he is not a liar. He loves me, and he deserves the best version of me and that is more than who is in the mirror.

She didn't want Jay to be with anyone else and she didn't want to be with anyone else. That was the truth of the matter and she hated that something so simple had eluded her for so long.

"I love Jay," she said aloud for the first time.

OK, I said it to myself. That was easy enough, now I just have to say it to him.

But the ugly insecurity she harbored reared its head, thinking maybe she had waited too long and he could have changed his mind. The anger she felt before with Fianna's declaration of attraction had been replaced with the heavy lead of doubt.

Gods damn it.

She let out an annoyed huff, wondering why it was so hard to just stick to one feeling and ignore anything she didn't want to deal with.

Her inner turmoil was interrupted by a text from Mal.

[get back to the dorm, important news]

Evie wondered what her friend wanted but didn't dally and made her way back to the castle.

Thursday – Class Colour Day

First Years – Rose
Sophomores – White
Juniors – Blue
Seniors – Gold

"I feel like we're not allowed to sit anywhere," Carlos mentioned as he was painted head to toe in shimmery gold paint.

Literally painted head to toe in shimmery gold paint that rub off on everything.

"Small price to pay for school Spirit, Carlos," Evie paid him no mind, thinking he just needed to get over it. She adjusted her crown of laurels, and then looked to make sure the rest of theirs had been perfectly placed as well.

She had planned to tell Jay that morning but with getting ready, she had lost track of time and chickened out. She took it as a good sign that he still wore the outfit, but the irksome voice of her mother wouldn't relent and she acted as if nothing was happening. She just had to hope he would understand her procrastination.

Carlos moodily pouted, he thought he was rather a good sport during this whole insane exercise in social interaction but he felt maybe she had gone too far. Most had simply worn clothes that were gold or varying shades of yellow. The friends were all painted gold and wearing golden togas. He had no idea what either meant to the other, but he felt rather exposed.

He wished Jay would back him up but the large Isle teen was too busy flexing for their gawkers to be too mad at having to be covered in gilt paint.

"Are we going to get kicked out of class?"

"For what? Having too much school…damn it Doug!"

The Isle kids whipped their heads in the direction the normally blue haired witch was looking, wondering what caused her to curse.

And it was Doug and several other band members also painted head to toe in shimmery gold paint. The trumpet player seemed just as offended as Evie was that there were others with the same idea for Class Colour Day. The only difference was that they were all wearing matching gold suits rather than togas.

"OK, you guys are going to have to change," Doug spoke on behalf of the band and acted as if he had the authority to give orders.

"We will do no such thing. You must have cheated and seen my sketches and stole my idea."

"No, no, no, no. We've been planning this since First Year. We're Gold Bonds, you guys are just Greek statutes or something."

"I don't know what 'Gold Bonds' means but we're Chrysus Nymphs, followers of the Greek god that embodies gold and riches. You guys are reusing suits from Tuesday. We are way more appropriate and original for Class Colour Day."

"Not even close. We're a James Bond pun, nothing beats that."

"It took over two hours to get this paint on."

"I don't even know if this paint is skin safe, that's how dedicated we are."

"What do you mean you don't know if it's skin safe?" Tyler asked, bewildered at this new development.

"Ty, chill out. Shirley Eaton didn't actually die in Goldfinger. We're fine."

Mal thought she ought to do something since it looked like Evie and Doug were about to go toe to toe for the right to be painted in gold, but she was rather amused. She wondered who would win in a fight.

Evie has powers and height, but Doug is probably from a long line of Dwarf miners and warriors. His arms are rather impressive, not Jay impressive but impressive nonetheless. I wonder if it's too late to start taking bets.

But she would never know as Carlos, the peacekeeper, intervened.

"Hey guys, we all look great and worked really hard on our costumes. And we're all in the same class, what's really important is that we look better than the Juniors."

He also wasn't afraid to use his height and stance to get Doug to back up, and it was made clear when Jay joined him that no one came that aggressively close to Evie even if they thought she could defend herself.

Carlos had found their common enemy and both Evie and Doug looked to the gaggle of students a grade below.

"We do look pretty amazing," Doug admitted, the Juniors weren't anywhere on their level of awesome. He also inched away from Evie, getting the message that he had come on too strong and too close.

"We do," Evie agreed and figured two people could have similar great ideas. She was glad for the gold paint, she was pretty sure she was blushing with how protective Jay was despite what was going on between them.

"Damn it Doug!" someone else shouted from the side.

All jaws dropped in disbelief when the cheer and tourney team had come up also head to toe in gold paint. Their costume consisted of form fitting body suits with about a foot of the bottom their outfit pitch black.

"What the hell are you guys supposed to be?" Doug demanded.

"Duh, we're the Oscars," Audrey growled, she did not put on a bald cap to be copied by the band or the Isle upstarts.

Carlos sighed, his attempt at diplomacy was for naught.

The three social groups had geared up for a fight when Ben had come around the corner.

"Wow, you all look awesome," he said genially. He was wearing a simple blue suit with his crown, a red rose on his lapel and a white shirt. As the Crown Prince, he thought he ought not to take any one side despite being a Senior. He felt he represented the entire school so he wore all the class colours.

Every gilded student, with the exception of Mal, Carlos, and Jay, had turned to him and he swore they all growled. He wasn't sure what was going on but perhaps he ought to stay out of it. He slowly backed away and went towards homeroom.

That day was later dubbed the Senior Gold Debacle and new Spirit Week rules included having to sign up costume ideas with the student council, it would be "first in time, first in line." There were also mandatory assemblies about conflict resolution and teachers learned how to deescalate tense situations when student competition got out of hand.

There was also a full ban of any kind of body paint.

Three years later, the goblin janitorial staff was still scrubbing glittery paint from the classrooms and halls of Auradon Prep.

---

Jay and Carlos were hanging in their dorm, they had decided to take pizza from the mess hall and play video games in their room. The girls had called a "girls night" and forbade them from their dorm.

It wasn't something the girls did often but Carlos figured they were owed a night off from them then and again. He was curious as to what brought it about however.

"How long did it take Mal to say 'I love you' when you first said it to her?" Jay asked randomly as they lounged on their beds before deciding which game to occupy their night with.

Carlos was surprised by the question but thought about it. He then blushed recalling the night they confessed their love for each other and figured that part of the story wasn't what he wanted.

"Umm, I guess more or less right away.

Jay sighed, disappointed in the answer and suddenly finding the ceiling most interesting.

"I figured as much."

"What's going on?"

The veteran thief hesitated but figured he needed to tell someone and Mal wasn't around.

"I told Evie I loved her last night."

"Oh," Carlos wasn't sure how else to react, he always figured the two of them were just casual. Neither of them seemed to be acting differently that day. "Wow…what did she say?"

"She didn't say anything, that's kind of the problem I'm having."

"…" he definitely wasn't sure what to say then, but felt hurt on his friend's behalf. He had no idea how heartbroken he would have been if Mal hadn't returned his feelings. "I'm sorry, man."

"Yeah, I wish I just didn't say anything. I feel like I just completely screwed everything up."

"Can't fault you for being honest."

"But now it's going to be weird and awkward. She's probably taking her time to figure out a way to let me down gently and break up with me."

Carlos wish he could reassure his friend, but he didn't know what was going through Evie's head. Normally he knew her well enough he could have but it was new territory. He wondered why she didn't say anything to him, maybe she wanted a female point of view; hence the "girls night." Mal, he wasn't surprised she didn't tell him anything; she was a vault of secrets when she wanted to be. It also usually didn't occur to her to share things like that, preferring to keep away from other people's business and was never one to gossip.

He winced at the image of Mal trying to be tactful and comforting. Jay was her best friend, he just hoped she remembered that Evie was her friend too.

He didn't know what to say to Jay, so he went with his instinct.

He climbed into bed with Jay and wrapped his arm around his shoulder. Jay adjusted so his head so he was propped against his bicep.

"Is this what it's like to be the little spoon?"

Carlos grinned and laughed softly.

"It's nice."

They lay there for a moment, comfortable with each other and the long haired teen appreciated the closeness. He felt less like he was going through it alone. Jay worried if his relationship with Carlos would also change. He couldn't imagine his life without any of the other three with him.

When he was on the Isle and had nothing, he at least had the three.

He knew Mal would stick with him, he had no doubt about that. Neither of them would put pressure on Carlos to pick a side, but if things went worst case scenario then he also put a strain on his best friend's relationship. He didn't want Evie to be shut out. She didn't deserve that just because she didn't love him back. Jay didn't want there to be sides at all, he hoped that things could go back to the way things were before.

I'll have to make sure that no matter what, we have to remain friends…no matter how much it'll hurt…gods why didn't I just keep my mouth shut?

Carlos hugged him closer when he scented the salt of Jay's tears.

"This sucks," Carlos said as he rubbed his friend's arm up and down. "And it may suck for a long time, while we figure out how to make it work. But we will make it work. We've been through too much to let this break us apart."

While Mal was his best friend, Jay was glad to have Carlos who was more attuned to others' feelings. He figured Mal would have set something on fire by now.

"Come on, lets try to beat the next level of Hero Rising. Aaron Stone is calling my name."

Neither really acknowledged Jay's tears as he wiped them away, both distracting themselves with games and talking about the upcoming tourney game.

Friday – Jersey Day

Jay and Carlos got ready for the day, thankfully the theme for Friday was the simplest. They were supposed to wear the jersey of their favorite sports team. It was also the first time they were matching the rest of the tourney team, everyone deciding that they would wear the home game team jersey. Not only was it in solidarity, but it was tradition and part of team building.

So both Isle teens wore the blue home jersey, freshly pressed and in pristine condition. By Saturday evening they would be drenched in sweat with grass and dirt stains.

"I wonder how Evie got all the dirt and grime out," Carlos absently wondered, since both the home and away jerseys have seen the tourney field. He recalled all the times he had to do Cruella's laundry, he thought he knew every trick there was when it concerned stains.

Jay supposed magic but also remembered she was in charge of cleaning garments for the brothels. She probably learned all kinds of ways to remove a variety of stains.

Evie still hadn't really talked to him since Wednesday, he was trying to be patient and give her space. But it was wracking on his nerves and perhaps he'd ask her today to just put him out of his misery. It had to be better than living in the limbo of their relationship.

They normally met the girls at the mess hall but both boys were startled when they heard a knock. They did a quick scan of their dorm to make sure all contraband was hidden. Carlos got the door and was surprised to see Evie there.

There was a tense silence, no one sure why she was there alone to meet them at their dorm.

"Hey Carlos, Mal's waiting downstairs. Do you mind giving Jay and me a minute?" Evie asked, somewhat nervous which was not normally like her. But given the situation, the de Vil scion understood it was a special circumstance.

"Sure, I'll see you guys later," as much as he wanted to be there for both his friends, it was a private moment he wanted to get away from as soon as he could.

Jay braced himself and sat on the edge of his bed. He had a feeling he would be skipping breakfast and possibly first period. He had never been heartbroken before so he wasn't sure how long it would take to get himself together enough for the public.

Mal can get my assignments and let me see her notes. I feel this will be a whole day off occasion.

After Carlos left and she had closed the door for privacy, her heart broke at how despondent Jay looked and hated that she was the cause of it.

She hoped to never have to see that look on Jay's face again. She came over to him and gently tilted his head up to look at her.

He was confused at the warm smile she wore and then more so when she kissed him. Automatically he had wrapped his arms around her and deepened the kiss.

It wasn't exactly what he expected with a breakup, perhaps it was a last kiss goodbye and he was going to hold on for as long as he could.

She pulled from the kiss and leaned her forehead against his.

"I love you," she breathed out, not letting him go.

He was speechless as that was the last thing he expected to hear.

"I'm sorry it took me so long to sift through the garbage expectations my mother and father left me with. I know you're nothing like what they taught me to expect. I know you're protective, strong, sweet, and completely amazing. It wasn't fair to you, and I hope you can forgive me."

Her voice was small but clear, he hated that Ravenna and the nameless and faceless Archduke would make a girl who by all rights should be confident in all things doubt herself. But he understood and was so relieved she had loved him back.

"I have the love of the smartest and most beautiful girl in all of Auradon, how could I not?"

His voice said that not only was she forgiven but that he understood and would never think of the last few days ever again. She didn't know how he could be so understanding, particularly since she had left him not knowing for two days; it had to be hard to bear. She knew she probably wouldn't have been so accommodating but it was just another thing that made Jay great.

She gave him the dazzling smile he had so loved and kissed him again. His hands had started to wander, used to these types of kisses leading to something else.

But she had broken away from him and in her no nonsense tone,

"No, we have breakfast then school. I didn't spend hours perfectly pressing and cleaning these jerseys for us to wrinkle them and look slovenly."

He didn't argue with her, but laughed and promised that that night they would definitely wrinkle them.

"Nope, we're having another girls' night."

Jay frowned, he felt like he hadn't spent time with her since Tuesday.

"No pouting."

"Why? You had a girls' night, last night."

He was going to accept her decree regardless, but felt he should at least whine a little in hopes of getting his way.

"We did and need another…grand plans Jay, grand plans."

That sounded a little ominous to his ears but figured she had been spending much more time with Mal and was picking up on a few habits.

"Alright," he gave in and pushed her gently away by her waist.

"Ouch," she grimaced as he hit a tender spot.

"What's wrong?" he couldn't have shoved her hard enough for it to hurt.

"It's nothing," she quickly responded, perhaps a bit too quickly. "I just ran into a chair and I have a bruise."

He accepted her reason but something nagged at him that it wasn't the truth. But Evie wouldn't keep something serious from him so he let it go.

As they got themselves together to leave, he noticed she was wearing his gold jersey, the number 8 clearly showing it was his. He was wearing simple jeans and his blue jersey. Evie had decorated hers up with an embellished rhinestone gold chain belt. The shirt was so large on her it was almost a dress, the bottom of the jersey billowing out like a skirt under the belt.

He wasn't sure what it was, but some primal instinct inside him purred when she wore his clothes. None of the Isle teens were big on PDA, more so because of the strict Auradon Prep rules; but it was little things like clothes sharing that stated what they could not otherwise physically do: they were taken and everyone else ought to be aware.

It made him smile even more now that he and Evie were officially beyond casual and in love and exclusive.

He stole one last kiss before they had to go meet Carlos and Mal.

---

Carlos was relieved when he saw his best friend and his roommate with the biggest smiles he had ever seen them wear. It seemed their talked went the opposite way he had feared.

Mal seemed nonchalant, probably because she already knew what Evie was going to say and probably what their "girls' night" was about.

They all had breakfast and went to their first period, a normal day for them but to Evie and Jay; it felt it was a completely new day, everything fresh and full of potential.

None of them aware of the gossip storm they created as they walked through the halls.

---

The Friday before a big game was understood as a goof off day, there was no use in practicing anymore as they had been nonstop the entire month before. The conductor also knew better than to try to get the band members to pay attention as they were all excited about the dance and could use a break. There was still one last dress rehearsal after school, so the Wind Ensemble first period class was a cacophony of sound. Some decided to practice regardless as not everyone in the formal band class was also in marching band; others were talking, everything a loud white noise.

"Why did no one tell me that the Isle kids were all dating each other?" Kirara rushed into the room and went directly to the core marching band.

"What?" Doug was slightly bewildered because it was the first time he was hearing it.

"Yeah, Mal and Evie are wearing Carlos and Jay's jersey. They're totally dating."

"What? No way," Dwayne piped in, not believing it. "It's jersey day, it's probably the only jerseys they have on hand."

"They had the theme for Spirit Week since the beginning of October, they had plenty of time to find something. They're dating. All the girlfriends and boyfriends of tourney players are wearing their jerseys," Kirara insisted.

"I have never seen them act like boyfriend and girlfriend," Megan added.

"That's because PDA is against the rules."

"Yeah, because that stops so many people at Auradon Prep…like Deven and Shane," Doug said sarcastically. The band automatically turned their heads towards the mentioned brass players and there they were, making out while the conductor read the newspaper.

The percussionist was not about to let it lay, however, and insisted her gut feeling was correct.

It then devolved into the entire band giving their two farthings about the Isle teens' love life. That then further devolved into a betting pool because no one was about to let their opinion go to waste.

Soon the whiteboards were filled with various pairings and who thought which couple was the right combination.

"I don't know why you insist on calling them Malos when I'm the only one in that pool!" Doug was fed up about his choice of nickname being ignored.

"It makes no sense for one," Bradley, a flute player who had deemed himself grandmaster of the "Isle Love Pool." He would collect the money and refrain from placing a bet. It took ten minutes for everyone to solemnly swear that none of them knew for sure who was dating whom. "The dominant of the pair, their name goes first with all portmanteau couple names. Everyone knows that."

"No, no one knows that because you just made it up. 'CarMal' sounds so much better. It rolls off the tongue and sounds like candy."

"The candy is 'care-ah-mel.' 'Car-mel' is what the hicks in Corona say."

"Screw you Bradley," Jasmine from woodwind said, offended for her hometown.

"It doesn't matter because you're not going to win," the grandmaster said dismissively to the trumpet player. "This is such a farfetched coupling that I don't even think you're taking this seriously."

"What?! Mal was wearing the number 10 jersey. That's Carlos' jersey."

"So that just means that they're friends because Mal didn't have another one. Clearly it's Jayvie all the way and Mal and Carlos are just friends," Kayla explained, putting all her money in that combination.

"No, that's just your wishful thinking because you want to bone Carlos."

"I do not confirm or deny my betting is influence by my own wishes."

"I'm sure as hell hoping Jay is single," Rosalina joked.

"I think what we're really forgetting is that people of the opposite and same sex can just be friends," Don pointed out.

"Carlos and Evie are always hugging and messing with each other's hair. They have to be together. They look perfect," Diedre sighed, thinking the two would be so romantic.

"No way, they're like brother and sister. I've definitely maybe heard them say that. This isn't Game of Thrones," Shane groused, slightly grossed out.

"You haven't heard anything because the Four barely hang with anyone else."

"I'm with Bradley on this one. Carlos is a sweet, sweet cinnamon roll and Mal is a beautiful murder goddess. There's just no way," Jaqueline commented.

"OK, you guys really need to put an end to that rumor. Ben wouldn't let any Isle kid who's murdered anyone into Auradon. He had to have done some kind of background check. Mal hasn't murdered anyone…and Malvie is too obvious. You guys are stacking too much into one pool, you're not going to make any real money with so many people to split the pot with," Doug said condescendingly.

"It's not about the money, it's about seeing the obvious and being right," Deven defended his choice. "And if you want to talk Isle Kids who play with each other's hair, that's Mal to Evie all day and like every day."

"How exactly are we going to find any of this out? Is someone going to ask them?"

The band room suddenly got deathly quiet, no one volunteering to be part of the inquiry. They were all on fairly good terms with the Isle Kids, but to go as far as to pry into their personal lives? None of them wanted to test Mal's patience.

"I guess someone could ask them on a date?" Kirara suggested, thinking whomever they asked would at least be polite enough to let them down gently.

No one volunteered, most too shy to deal with that kind of rejection even if it were to win a bet. They also ran the risk of one of them saying "yes." While some would love to date them, they didn't want their relationship to start off with a lie.

Before anyone could further debate, the bell rang to end first period. They left the white board up with directions to not disturb it.

"Sure we should leave this up?" Doug doubted. While he knew deep in his heart Mal had never murdered anyone, that didn't mean she wouldn't start if she saw the board.

"Why? None of the Isle kids are in band, they won't see it," Addy wasn't worried.

"Yeah but what if one of the newbs in Concert Band take a pic and show it around?"

"Then it's in Bradley's handwriting and we say it was his idea."

"Mal would murder him…metaphorically," he added thinking of the rumors he wanted to quash.

"Even First Years aren't that stupid."

But apparently said First Years had no trouble barging into a betting pool and expanding the various combinations. It had gotten so extensive they had to use another whiteboard.

"Hmmm, I didn't even think of three or moresomes," Addy contemplated, wondering if she could change her bet when they all gathered in the band room after school.

"What assholes did this to our board?" Doug was not impressed by the commentary. "I don't recognize half these names."

"Apparently the dance and drama kids want in on the action."

"Pssspts, whatever. More money for me when I win by myself."

"In your dreams Doug, in your dreams."

"I'm surprised at all the Ben and Mal entries. Although I can see it for the same reasons I see Carlos and Mal. Sweet cinnamon roll and beautiful metaphorical murder goddess. They just go together so well."

"Well Audrey's a right cunt, so I'm not surprised there are so many people cheering for their breakup. Little surprised it's Mal and Ben. I would have thought him and Evie would be better suited. She is technically of royal blood."

"Sometimes I have this fantasy where Ben takes the mic after a game and just breaks up with her right in front of everyone. It'd be so much more painful and therefore awesome if he left her for Mal."

Both vindictively laughed at the image, each starting to come up with worse and crueler ways Audrey would get her comeuppance.

"Oh sweet Mickey on high, King Adam would have a stroke. We'd probably see a civil war with Auroria if their princess got dumped for Maleficent's daughter."

Still the two got a good chuckle out of the hypothetical.

"My board! My beautiful board!" Bradley cried when he saw what the heathens did to his perfectly managed board.

---

All throughout the day and during dinner, Mal couldn't shake off the feeling she was being watched.

Normally it was the cheer team, they usually never were all that subtle with their sneers and stares.

This time, however, it seemed the band, drama club, and dance teams were throwing looks towards them but immediately turned their heads when Mal looked back. They were trying to be inconspicuous but failing.

"What is everyone staring at?" Mal growled, she knew it wasn't just in her head.

"No idea, it's pretty uncomfortable. I know the dance team suddenly wants to know all about me," Carlos admitted, people were acting strange.

The dance team wasn't ever cold or aloof, but they were definitely more invasive than normal during class.

"What did you tell them?"

"Pretty much nothing. I mean we're all pretty private and I just don't know what their deal is."

Mal was glad for that, she would get to the bottom of this weird new obsession with them.

Jay and Evie were rather put out, with the new intense focus on them they felt they couldn't even look at each other; their new confessed love felt stifled under the inquiry.

---

Across the room, the band all speculated what the Isle teens' every move meant.

"They look like they're just eating. No one is indicating romantic interest to anyone."

"No, I know I've seen them all touchy before. I just can't remember who with who."

"Maybe if you guys stop staring at them like a bunch of weird stalkers, they'd be more relaxed. Look at how tense they are."

The band then started to bicker about whose fault it was that the Isle Four were onto their shenanigans.

---

On the opposite side of the room,

"See, look at how edgy they are. They're practically hunching over. I know they're plotting something. They better not ruin Homecoming," Audrey huffed out, she would be particularly incensed if anything ruined her last Homecoming, especially one where she'd be crown Homecoming Queen. "That tramp has been keeping Ben so busy with 'Isle to Auradon' program. What kind of stupid name is that? I swear, Mal better…"

Jane tuned Audrey out, ever since the princess got nominated for Homecoming Queen, and looked to have the win, she had been even more insufferable than usual. When she wasn't bragging about winning the crown and what she was going to wear, she was complaining about Mal.

It used to be that Audrey would complain and accuse both Evie and Mal of trying to steal Ben, but it seemed she settled on the latter as the sole one who was trying to seduce the future king. Now the half star fae felt all she ever heard about anymore was Mal. Most of the cheer team tried to commiserate with Audrey, agreeing that Mal was up to no good and probably a whore. Others, Jane felt, were just as tired and struggled to not roll their eyes; wanting to talk about anything other than whatever the Isle fae was or wasn't doing.

It also didn't help that every plot Audrey was paranoid about didn't seem to be coming to fruition.

I mean it's been like two months, if the Isle Kids were going to try something, wouldn't they have done it by now?

It wasn't as if Maleficent was the patient or indecisive type, at least not according to the stories; especially not the way the Dornröschen's told it. If Mal's mother was the type to be so enraged at not getting an invite to a christening, then logically Mal wouldn't be the type to take the constant rudeness and not being invited to weekend parties the popular kids at school threw. There were plenty of students, particularly seniors, that had estates and mansions nearby and cars to drive off campus.

Not that I get to go to any of them.

Jane thought bitterly at how her mother never let her go off campus, even on weekends. Sure, plenty of students boasted that the parties had alcohol, sometimes even drugs, but that didn't mean Jane would partake. She just wanted to go to say she went and be part of the social scene.

She was so tired of being babied and cloistered away. She was tired of being the same boring old Jane she had been since First Year.

Even her name was unexciting.

"Plain Jane," what was mom thinking? It's like she had me destined to be as boring as possible.

But as long as everyone was staring at the Isle Four, she hoped none of them were focusing on Carlos, she thought she may as well get her fill of her favorite platinum and raven haired beauty.

Although she didn't have a date to the dance, she figured the Isle Four were going stag as a group. That meant they might all be open to dancing with other people, perhaps it'd be her chance to talk to him. At the very least dance close enough for him to notice her.

I wish my dress wasn't so frumpy.

Of course her mother went with her dress shopping. Even though they could afford a tailor, when her mother was done giving instructions it ended up a shoulder covered, boxy monstrosity that was covered in ruffles and Cinderella blue. Again, she felt she was in middle school with that dress as it hid any hint that she was a young woman with curves. The one advantage she thought she had was that she was curvier than some of her peers. She desperately wanted to show them off but couldn't gather the courage to defy her mother.

Sighing, she stole longing stares at Carlos and just hoped he could see past the dowdy dress and get to know her.

Saturday- Homecoming Game & Dance

The tourney stadium was packed. The entire school was there including distinguished Alumni, everyone sporting the school colors. On the opposite end, there were teems of white and green, everyone gearing up for the big game

"Wow guys, I love your signs," Addy admired before the game officially began and she had to perform.

"Thanks! Mal made them," Evie boasted.

"I particularly like the detailed beheading of the Sherwood Forest Falcon. Is that Jane as the knight?"

"Yes, I was told she was the mascot. I thought it was only right she would be the one to kill our opponents."

"You know what? I can totally see Jane holding the decapitated head of our rivals in victory."

Addy never in her wildest dreams would ever think shy, demure Jane would ever wield a sword or stand so confidently with the bloodied head of the Sherwood Forest mascot but Mal painted a convincing picture.

"Ladies! Are we ready for a great game?" Professor FéeMarraine couldn't contain her excitement, she loved Homecoming.

"Knights, knights, knights!" a group of students shouted as they passed by.

"I'm so glad you guys decided to join in. I know Homecoming is…" the Magic History teacher paused when she realized what exactly was on their signs. "…is that my Jane?"

"Yes, we will defeat the Falcons most thoroughly," Mal enthused, looking towards Evie to make sure she was expressing the correct amount of fervor although the game as a whole meant nothing to her. If Carlos and Jay weren't on the team, she definitely would not have come.

They both smiled at the teacher, totally oblivious that their signs were causing distress.

Professor FéeMarraine struggled, she wanted to confiscate the posters as they were much too graphic, and they depicted her daughter so violently but she also didn't want to discourage the Isle girls. The artwork was so detailed and had to have taken Mal hours to produce. No one seemed bothered by the imagery, in fact most students cheered and whooped as they passed them, so perhaps she'd let this one slide.

"…it's…lovely. Great work, girls."

"Thanks Professor FéeMarraine," they both said simultaneously.

The game started, thankfully, so Nadine wouldn't have to directly look at the sign. She just hoped no parent from the opposing side would file a complaint.

---

The game was in its fourth quarter; although technically the game was supposed to only be an hour, broken up in 15-minute quarters, with all the time outs and pauses it seemed like the game went on forever.

The intensity and anticipation also made time slow, both sides of the stadium getting wilder and louder as time went on. One half of the seats were a sea of blue, gold, and white; the other, an undulating mass of white, green, and canary yellow.

Mal and Evie tried to keep up with the various group cheers and motions that everyone seemed to know by heart. The cheer team and mascots were constantly moving on the field, peppy cheers of "Oh-aye, oh-aye" and short verses repeated over and over again. Clinking sounds of Jane in her Fighting Knight costume could be heard over the cheers as she danced and tried to keep up with the cheerleaders.

Even the Sherwood Forest students had their own "Soaring Falcon" chant and movements, all perfectly coordinated with their arms out as if they were flying through the air.

Although she thought the game was stupid, Mal did find herself getting caught up in the furor; she had shouted cheers and encouragement as loud as the rest of them, hoping for a win.

On the benches, Head Coach Jenkins was shouting plays and pulling from and calling players onto the field. Despite the addition of Jay and Carlos, they couldn't count just on a few players out of 11 to win the game. The assistant coach helped keep the players organized and where they were supposed to be.

[This is a nail biter folks. There is 47 seconds left in the clock. We're all tied up. The Sherwood Falcons, 2. The Fighting Knights, 2. What a game between Auradon's fiercest rivals!]

The Isle boys tried to ignore the announcer; they didn't need reminding how close the game was and the bitter rivalry they had walked into when they joined the team.

When the game was on the line, even petty grievances against their fellow students melted away.

"Go get'em Chad," Jay mindlessly encouraged the prince who had antagonized them since they joined the team.

"Thanks, Jay," the prince of Cinderellaberg and Charmington replied after he downed some water.

[The teams get into their huddles and take up positions along the kill zone. The cannoneers have been laying down a withering hail of cannon fire.]

Jay and Carlos were benched, giving them a rest from the first half, hoping to get the freshmen and other team members a chance to play as well. Jay had taken out a few of the opposing team due to injuries, he had racked up the most "unnecessary roughness" penalties in Auradon Prep history but he wasn't red carded and out. Coach Jenkins had already fought with the referees about unfair calls and that they were dishonestly targeting the Isle teen. All the adults were tense but unwilling to budge or give up.

The whistle blew and they had maybe time for two more plays in order to win.

[The tipoff is ready.Long pass goes to #7. #7 dishes off to #23. Nice block from #20.The ball is lost, poor handling by new freshmen #13 but it's saved by #7. They quickly make their way across the field, barely missing the cannoneers. They make it past the kill zone, they're in the clear! #7 is within the strike zone AND WHAT A SAVE BY #36, THE FALCONS' GOALKEEPER.]

The guest team's stand erupts in cheers, happy the game isn't over and they still have a shot. The Fighting Knights all groaned in unison, so close to a winning goal.

[Twenty-three seconds left. You could cut the tension with a sword. Ball is still in Knight's possession.]

They were running out of options and Jay was determined not to lose his first game, much less an important one such as Homecoming.

He didn't understand Homecoming or why it was important, but damn it he knew it was.

"Coach, put Carlos and me in," Jay demanded, he had an idea.

"I don't know Jay," he didn't want to lose his best players and they were toeing the line already with how many penalties Jay had under his belt. "One more penalty and they can suspend you from future games."

"That's if I were still a defender. If I were a charger, then it's unlikely I'd have to tackle anyone."

Carlos and Coach Jenkins whirled their head to the long haired teen, unsure what he was planning. The latter also looked at the smaller athlete. Jay was built to be a defender, Carlos not so much.

"Trust me Coach, Carlos is tougher than you think."

Still, Coach Jenkins wasn't sure. But he didn't have much to lose with so little time left in the game.

[And we have substitutiosn from the Fighting Knights. Coach Jenkins must be getting desperate as #8 has had multiple penalties against him and one more could mean a suspension. Also joining the field is #10; perhaps they're hoping his quick feet will save the day.]

Before the whistle blew, Jay quickly told the huddle that he and Carlos were switching positions. Only Ben seemed confident in the new plan and the others fell into line despite their doubts.

The whistle blew and they had one last shot to win the game.

Carlos and Jay worked together, years of trust and friendship allowed them to read each other cues as if reading each other's minds. They operated as one to fake out the other team. They had switched positions and the Sherwood chargers were not ready for the onslaught of Carlos' raw power, surprised that such a comparatively wiry player could plow them over with the same ferocity. Jay weaved in and out, taking advantage of their shock.

The cheerleaders weren't as enthusiastic as they normally were, they were still hesitant to accept the Isle teens and the several penalties Jay accrued had just confirmed in their minds that he was too violent to fit in.

Jane, on the other hand, shouted "Go Carlos" in hopes that he would hear and know she was on his side. Unfortunately her voice was lost in the cacophony of the stadium.

Even the announcer wasn't sure how to articulate the game.

[Big block from #10, the surprise of the day! Two Falcon's are down and clumsily getting back on their feet so there is no unnecessary roughness calls. Number 8 is weaving in and out of the kill zone, not hitting anyone – a first of the game -…and flipping away from the cannon fire? This game is insane! The shock is enough to distract the Falcons and #8 is within the strike zone and passes it to #7. It's enough to psych out the goalie AND HE SCORES THE WINNING GOAL!THE FIGHTING KNIGHTS WIN!]

The entire stadium exploded in cheers when the ball hit the net. Every Auradon Prep tourney member rushed to them in victory and all but tackled them in glee. Even Chad was patting them on the back and yelling their victory.

The Falcons limped off the field, accepting their defeat and wanting to go home.

Neither Evie nor Mal knew what came over them. They didn't particularly care for the game, but seeing how hard their boyfriends worked for the win, their blood heated with the thrill of competition and how aggressively the boys took on their opponents, both girls rushed down to the field.

If neither girl had more control over their powers, they may have set off sparks at how joyful and proud of their boys they were.

The team as a whole was still weary of the Isle girls so they parted away from Carlos and Jay, giving the girls plenty of space and thinking they wanted to congratulate their friends.

The entire stadium got dead quiet when the girls had thrown themselves at the boys, wrapped their arms around them and kissed them in front of everyone.

Jaws literally dropped as no one had expected that to happen.

Students were shocked as they either had no idea the Isle Four were dating or had completely lost the betting pool. The parents and adult alumni were somewhat scandalized that students would put on such a display. Several professors were trying to sift through the crowd to admonish the teens but were unwilling to stoop so low as to yell.

The boys twirled the girls in their arms and returned the kiss, clearly happier to have them than the win.

Only one lone voice pierced the silence,

"Yes! I told you all, everyone can suck it!"

None of the Isle teens had heard that, too lost in their bliss. But once the kiss stopped and they realized not only where they in public but everyone was shocked silent, they thought maybe they had made a mistake.

It was just a kiss, why is everyone acting like we took off our clothes?

Mal was ready to fight anyone who said anything negative.

No one noticed the Auradon Prep Fighting Knight run off the field and disappear.

Ben was included in those who were shocked, he had no idea Mal or any of the others had been dating.

He told himself the sinking feeling in his stomach and how his heart skipped a beat was not because he was hurt Mal was taken, but that she or the others didn't trust in him enough to tell him.

He was upset, he firmly convinced himself so no other thought could flourish, because clearly they weren't as good of friends as he thought they were.

He would never say his eyes went downcast and he looked despondent. He would never say he had a horrible aching in his chest for something he didn't know he wanted was taken away or never there to begin with. He would never say he yearned for the way Mal looked at Carlos to be directed at him.

He would never say such things, but Audrey couldn't help but see all of that and more written on his face.

---

The castle dorms included a massive reception hall, some might even call it a formal grand ballroom, that was covered in blue, gold, and white bunting for Homecoming. Several students milled about, mostly Homecoming committee and other student council volunteers doing last minute preparations. The dance started at 7:00pm but most wouldn't start pouring in until about 7:30pm or even as late as 8:00pm; most wanted to be "fashionably late."

Doug was a volunteer; he had helped put ribbons, balloons, and every other school dance decoration to anything that didn't move away fast enough. He wasn't exactly thrilled to do the job, but it looked good on his college applications so he sucked it up and did the best job he could.

He was already dressed in a deep jade green suit with a light amethyst shirt and plaid bow tie. It was a bit garish for most but that's because they didn't understand Dwarf fashion, particularly from Dwarves from a long line of gem miners, who tended to favor the jewel tones.

He danced to the background music the DJ had started, she wouldn't put the speakers on full blast until the dance officially started, but it was something for them to work to.

It wasn't the catchy tunes that put the extra pep in his step and the smile that wouldn't come off his face.

Addy was about to wipe it off for him if he didn't stop looking so smug.

His happiness had everything to do with the mountain of cash he won from the dating pool.

Everyone thought I was crazy, crazy like a fox!

He then started to think of all the stuff he'd treat himself to with all his winnings.

Maybe I should treat the Four to a nice double date a Lumiere's. We're all winners today.

His grin went even wider when he saw the scathing look his fellow volunteers brandished towards him.

"I still say you cheated and knew all along," Don said bitter to the core.

"Wrong, mon frère. I am simply on a different wavelength than you all. I can read love auras and you all should have listened to me when I said each my couples were perfect for each other."

"You are such a twat," Addy scoffed. "You said no such thing. All you went off of was the jerseys and you happen to be right."

"You wound me Addy, you really do. Like all Dwarves, we can sense where jewels are and love auras. They're natural talents we happen to possess."

"None of that is true."

"My family's gem mines and the big ol' bag of cash I won beg to differ."

I'm going to kill him.

But before Addy could make good on her silent threat, the Isle Four in question came rolling in. No one had told them about being fashionably late, but that didn't stop them from being the best dressed students he had ever seen and making a splash.

He had heard that Evie had talent with a sewing machine and needle, some of the band members in fashion classes with her, but he was surprised by the actual ability. Evie was not afraid to use color, something his Dwarvish heart could appreciate, and she paired each friend with hues that complemented their skin tones.

The detailing on the dresses must have taken hours; he wondered how she was able to complete four outfits, on top of every costume for Spirit Week, in time for the dance.

Evie wore royal blue, something that complimented her fair skin and dark eyes. Her dress was made of satin with a princess scoop neckline and bare shoulders. What really caught his attention was the ruby red star burst beading that bloomed from her waist. He thought she looked lovely with faux ruby accessories, a small tiara sitting perfectly on her head with intricate braids that must have taken hours to accomplish.

Jay's a lucky guy.

Doug was surprised that her boyfriend wasn't in a matching suit, but it seemed she wanted something that complimented each's colouring and taste best.

Jay wore a form fitting oxblood asymmetrical button closure jacket, which showed off his broad shoulders; from the looks of the other volunteers, Doug could see they all appreciated the outfit greatly and not because of the skill that went into it. The unique jacket had burnished gold buttons and threading, he wore simple black pants and shoes to finish up the outfit.

Carlos was clearly the peacock of the two Isle boys, his geometric paisley black and white jacket was loud but he wore it with confidence and it was just the right amount of "too much." The black pants and shirt were complimented with a crimson neck tie, giving the outfit a lone splash of color.

The students were most surprised by Mal's outfit. It was the first time any of them had seen her in a dress, other than the skirt of the school uniform. It was a modest boysenberry Cocktail length number with holographic beading all over the bust. The dress had a sweetheart neckline, her décolleté and down her arms with three quarter sleeves was covered in a semi-sheer plumb ninon.

Her makeup was simple, just some blush, mascara, and a nude lip gloss; she had looked so pretty and feminine, Doug wasn't even sure if it was the same girl; surely Mal had a happy and smiley twin no one knew about and had taken her place.

Something echoed and buzzed in the back of his mind, something to do with why Mal always wore long sleeves. He didn't believe she was some serial killer who scarred herself as trophies of her kills. Although most of his fellow idiot students would believe such nonsense and gossip about it until they were hoarse, he wondered why she chose what most called the "modest" uniform. Only those who got special religious waivers got to wear them, Mal didn't strike him as fitting into that category.

Although the rumors were ridiculous and salacious, he did always believe there was a tiny bit of truth in them somewhere. So while he didn't believe she was a killer, he did wonder about the rumors of scars. There had been all sorts of theories when she first attended Auradon Prep, from cage fighting to farming accident; the serial killer angle turned out to be the most popular. The truth was that no one knew why she had scars, only that the constant was that she had them.

He might have dismissed those rumors as well, sometimes people were just modest. But the fact the story of what they looked like stayed persistent. And some things just started to click in his head, things he had noticed but not had given any thought to.

She always glowered, it seemed as if she was just waiting for someone to do something to her or attack. She always kept to her personal space, the only ones allowed in were the other Isle teens. Even then, Doug had observed that they were not as touchy on her shoulders or back. She seemed as hard as steel and cold as ice.

Most assumed she was just a villainess and that's how they were.

Doug wondered differently.

Perhaps she had earned that scowl, she certainly earned distrusting most Auradon adults. He couldn't give a real opinion of the treatment of villains. He wasn't alive during the Fae Wars, but he had seen the scars of his father and uncles; he had heard all seven war stories.

The story of how Maleficent had decimated the Dwarves' homeland in Charmington once the war spilled outside of Auroria's borders was infamous and recited every Unification Day. Perhaps Maleficent and the other villains deserved the Isle, perhaps they deserved worse, he couldn't say.

But he could say that none of the villains' children deserved the Isle. They didn't even deserve the parents they had, they simply were born under an unlucky star and paid for the sins of their parents because of a simple twist of fate, and they had lost the genetic lottery.

If Maleficent was as bad as they always said she was, he could hazard a guess as to where exactly Mal got her scars.

It seemed he was the only one who could put those two things together.

He couldn't even begin to fathom the why of the scars.

He banished the questions from his mind; the Homecoming Dance was not the time to theorize what horrible things happened to the Isle Four while they grew up.

They all looked like they were trying their best to fit in at Auradon Prep, even with so many students resisting their efforts.

He almost laughed at their confused faces, he was certain they were wondering where everyone was when they were punctual.

Most students would wait until the dance was well under way, not only to be "fashionably late" but to make sure they could make an entrance with as many people able to see as possible. It was Audrey's strategy for every dance and normally it always worked.

But Doug suspected that the Four, despite being "early" were going to turn heads regardless.

Recalling it was due to them that he was now a rather wealthy Senior, he almost skipped in happiness to greet them and compliment them on their attire.

---

Audrey would usually have the most expensive, exclusive designed dress that took months to create; being born a Dornröschen meant that she had every resource at her disposal to always be the best dressed student at Auradon Prep; money was never an issue.

She was disappointed to see that her entrance was not met with the usual student fanfare, everyone was too busy actually dancing and crowding around the tourney heroes and gushing over Evie's designs.

A princess never pouted or showed what she was truly feeling, it took every lesson growing up to not stomp her foot in frustration.

It's my senior year, it's supposed to be my year.

Everything she had worked the last three years seemed to be slipping from her hands and was for naught. No one seemed to be able to talk about anything besides the Isle Four dating and their custom made gowns. Most royals and nobles had their outfits bespoke and made just for them for specific occasions, only the scholarship kids ever wore anything off the rack.

Audrey had even gone as far as making her seamstress sign a disclosure that she wouldn't not only keep the dress design a secret, but to never make another one and patent its design so literally no one could ever have it again. She wanted something special and one of a kind, that's exactly what she would have.

Evie's dresses were made by her. People couldn't believe the talent, regardless if they were Auradonian or from the Isle, and everyone loved the unique designs. They also gushed that she was willing to recreate, the Isle designer more than happy to have anyone and everyone wearing her creations.

There were talks of Evie doing their dresses for the next formal event.

All Audrey could get from most were, "Oh you look so good…it's Auroria Pink."

Yes, she had a signature colour, but that didn't make her gown any less magnificent.

These are genuine Argyle pink diamonds! Cut and hand sewn into this dress especially for me.

The princess of Auroria stewed in frustration with her group of friends, Crown Prince Ben and other tourney players among them, as they danced and socialized. A part of her resented Ben as he never had to worry about what he was going to wear, although she would never admit to that. He had a Royal Ceremonial Uniform he tended to favor, the uniform for the Auradon Guard, where he held the honorary title of Colonel. He could re-wear the blue and gold, the sigil of laurels on his back, the gold sash of the Royal Order of the Garter, the badge of the Auradonian Lion, and a few miscellaneous military medals that even Audrey was having a hard time recalling what exactly each and every regalia denoted, as much as he wanted; it was basically his signature look. No one cared and no one could gainsay his choices.

She, on the other hand, would be scrutinized from head to toe, from her neckline to skirt length. She had to be modest without being boring, fresh and new without being garish or too avant garde. There was a miniscule window of what was acceptable and fashionable, it took months of planning to land within that small space. She couldn't even think of wearing the same thing twice. She felt as if she were failing some unknown judge for not being the center of attention at her own Senior Homecoming.

She tried to pretend everything was alright, a smile never left her face. But it was the first time she felt she was an afterthought. She couldn't help but notice Ben's periodic glances to the Four and she knew exactly who he was zeroing in on.

She tried to distract herself by reiterating the rumor about Mal's scars, only to the cheer squad and when Ben clearly wasn't paying attention, the fae's dress cut in such a way that again, her shoulders and down to her elbows were covered. But that fell on deaf ears and most just commented on the intricate beading on the bust, and wondered if that was created by Evie as well.

Perhaps if she never dated Ben, she could see Mal was beautiful in the deep purple. She ignored the voice in her head that told her purple was for royals and Mal looked as if she was born into it.

All the Isle teens looked great, far better than she ever thought they'd ever be able to dress themselves. She probably could have also appreciated the time and detail that went into their outfits. But her jealousy turned into cold fear of actually losing Ben, not just him straying.

Men had wandering eyes, and as a princess there were certain things she couldn't do with him that she knew men wanted to do before they were married. She had even heard that men sometimes wanted things she shouldn't do as a lady even after they were married. She had seen and heard too many stories about the other nobles and royals, particularly Chad Charming, to think they were all chivalrous and virtuous as the stories told. She had always thought she just needed to keep certain "types" of girls away from Ben and he wouldn't fall into temptation. He had always been the perfect gentlemen around her but he was still a man, something her grandmother stressed she should never forget.

But she was starting to see that Mal and Evie weren't these sirens out to seduce princes. Even she could begrudgingly admit that both were clearly enchanted and in love with their boyfriends. Now that everyone knew, most couldn't believe they hadn't seen it sooner; it just seemed so obvious.

Audrey wasn't the only one shocked to see the fae smile so much. The win at the tourney game was probably the first time most had ever seen her smile, and it was all direct at Carlos as he showed off some dance moves he had learned in class or his natural grace and rhythm; there had been an ongoing dance competition among all the school's dancers, and even among some who would never be called graceful but they were having so much fun.

The "Villain Kids" were slowing just becoming "kids" among the students of Auradon Prep. It cut a fear into her far more than the thought of them working for their parents and wanting revenge. If Ben's program actually worked, if the children of villains could assimilate into Auradon then everything she was taught about villains, and assumed about their children, were wrong.

And if she really thought about it, neither girl had ever acted flirtatious with anyone. Her attempt at throwing Chad in the mix to turn them against each other had failed miserably, and now she knew why.

Ben always insisted nothing inappropriate happened during his meetings with Mal. She even saw the progress they had done, proof that their long hours together were spent actually working and tackling the task of expanding his program.

He would, annoyingly, gush about how pragmatic the fae was or her natural leadership skills. He would go on about her decisiveness and how well she could articulate her point and be persuasive without being aggressive. He never said one thing about her looks, but Audrey was starting to see that perhaps Ben could be attracted to more than just beauty.

So if Mal wasn't purposefully trying to seduce Ben, then those longing looks and too long stares he sent her way meant that his feelings ran deeper than mere physical attraction and he wasn't just doing what other men did.

Audrey had so much more to fear than having to play step-mother to bastards or a wandering eye.

She no longer feared that Ben would stray to satisfy an urge, and whatever the consequences that could come from that. She feared he was developing real feelings for someone that wasn't her.

Before she could worry any more than she already did, or think of ways to distract Ben, Headmistress FéeMarraine announced,

"And now for your Homecoming King and Queen!" the music had stopped and the spotlights on the stage. Two rhinestone encrusted crowns sat upon ruby red velvet cushions, matching fur lined sashes with "Homecoming King" & "Homecoming Queen" were held by Homecoming Committee volunteers, everything glittering under the bright lights.

So entranced in her thoughts, she didn't even notice they announced the winners of the rest of Homecoming Court.

Audrey barely heard the Headmistress say her and Ben's names and the thunderous applause that followed. She felt like she was walking through a dream, just going through the motions but always making sure she was smiling.

While her mind was in chaos, she was thankful her body knew how to act.

She accepted the crown, the first of several she had expected to accept in her life but now not as sure, and a large bouquet of red roses. She allowed them to put the sash over her dress and smiled at Ben. He even looked like he was happy to be there, with her and that everything was fine.

They were the picture perfect couple who just won their Senior Homecoming, the stuff fairy tales and movies were made about.

Months from now when people looked back on photos on Facebook and in the yearbook, they'd only ever guess they were dreamily content and so in love.

Under the lights and glitter, with his smile wide and beaming at her, she almost thought maybe she was just being paranoid. She had just won Homecoming Queen, she was the captain of the cheerleading squad, her tourney team just won a big match against their biggest rivals.

The world was good and perfect.

She felt relaxed and safe in his arms as they had their first dance as Homecoming King and Queen. She didn't know what song it was, all she could do was revel in the feeling of being his Queen. That had ended too soon and so did the dream feeling of perfection.

"Here's for all you lovely couples out there, a classic," the DJ boasted and the dancefloor cleared of everyone who didn't have a date.

Mal thought it was a little insensitive to single out the non-couples like that, but most didn't seem to mind or at the very least accepted it. Carlos led her to the perfect form and first position. She had known most of the formal dances, Evie insisted they all learn them; something she picked up from her mother and from constantly watching RBN.

Although the DJ said it was a classic, it was the first time they had ever heard of it. After hearing the tempo, they decided on a waltz. Most others had kept up with the tempo, but looking at how happy, healthy, and flourishing Carlos was; everything just fell away. They naturally came closer, slowing their pace until they were just swaying gently in each other's arms. They were no longer in the grand ballroom, they were in their own private world where she only saw kind eyes that loved her so.

Evie and Jay couldn't stop smiling at each other, sharing a secret that only each other knew. But everyone could see the secret as it radiated off of them, the secret of being so deeply and truly in love.

Wise men say only fools rush in
But I can't help falling in love with you
Shall I stay?
Would it be a sin
If I can't help falling in love with you?

Like a river flows surely to the sea
Darling so it goes
Some things are meant to be
Take my hand, take my whole life too
For I can't help falling in love with you

They understood why it was a classic song, so simple but profound and something they were living right in that moment.

So wrapped in love, neither couple noticed as they floated off the ground.

The students around them gasped, unsure of what was happening and moved away; they were afraid that whatever was happening could potentially effect them. The Isle Four were still dancing to the music and none of them seemed aware of the world, much less the commotion they were causing. A soft trailing golden light followed their dance steps, and rained down above the students' heads.

Headmistress FéeMarraine hurried to the dancefloor, trying to assess what was going on. When she saw nothing dangerous was happening, she was in awe at their raw power and the romantic in her was touched that it would present itself in such a way.

She hadn't seen such love since Cinderella in her gorgeous ball gown, twirling with Prince Christopher Charming. She sighed in nostalgia, the beauty of true love.

"Professor FéeMarraine, are they OK?" Ben asked, worried that they could hurt themselves.

Audrey stood back, her stomach sick in wondering how the Four could be so in love while her own romantic life was so uncertain. She was a princess, Happily Ever After was supposed to be guaranteed for her.

She told herself over and over that he was concerned for them all, not just Mal.

It was a hard sell as Ben couldn't keep his eyes off of the fae. But she repeated it nonetheless otherwise she was not going to get through the dance without falling into tears.

"Yes, yes…they're fine. They clearly have some latent magic. It can present itself in times of heightened or particularly strong emotions."

It took everything for The Fairy Godmother to not giggle,

Oh young love, it's a powerful magic all its own.

So charmed and entranced at the display, she didn't notice the subtle flinch the Crown Prince at hearing how deep the affections ran. Ben probably wasn't even aware he was doing it himself.

"How do we get them down? Get their attention?"

"No, we don't want them to lose their trance. They'd fall right down and at their height, they'd probably would hurt themselves. I'll get them down."

She took a solid stance and went over the spell in her head, remembering the hand gestures needed.

Doug stepped closer, curious to see magic as it was so rare; Unification Day the one Auradonian holiday he ever looked forward to.

With flicks of her wrist and almost singing,

Softly down like a featherborne

Safely down to the floor untorn

White sparks flittered around the Four, still unaware of what was happening and they all started to gently float down. When they reached the floor, they continued to dance. It still took several moments and almost bumping into other couples before they finally realized the song was over.

Mal's smile disappeared, Audrey supposed it was only reserved for Carlos, when she realized people were staring again.

Why are these people so weird?

The students and faculty realized they were gawking and quickly looked away. The dance went on later into the night.

The group had broken apart for a short while, other students wanting to socialize with them, all gushing about how romantic it was that they could take flight. The Four slightly panic stricken when they heard they had done accidental magic. But no one had come to take them away or even admonish them.

Even Fairy Godmother had winked at them and bade them to continue to have fun,

"Has anyone seen my Jane?" the magical history professor asked as she left the Four, she couldn't remember if she had seen her all night.

The Isle Four did as instructed and they could say it was a perfect first school dance.

After a few hours, the ballroom was basically empty, few were still hanging around and some had even started to clean up. There were several parties off campus happening, Jay and Carlos had been invited. The students still seemed weary of Mal, but since she was the girlfriend of a tourney player they knew they came as a packaged deal.

Both Jay and Carlos were interested but the former finally noticed that his girlfriend wasn't there.

"Where'd Evie go?"

"She has a surprise for you," Mal whispered, and from her smirk he knew it was a surprise he was going to like. "She's waiting in our room."

"Sorry, guys. I'm going to sit this one out," he promptly told his teammates and walked off, not bothering to hear pleas for him to change his mind.

"I have a surprise for you too," she quietly promised Carlos, who had shrugged to his teammates as if he were helpless against his girlfriend's wishes but he wasn't sorry for that for one minute.

The team was disappointed and had mentioned something about being "whipped" under their breath, but they had a party to get to and left soon after.

---

Jay walked briskly through the dorms, wanting to run but not wanting to seem suspicious. He eventually compromises and starts to speed walk, it seemed as if everyone had left campus; even the adults as he didn't see any of the usual floor monitors. He even felt confident enough to head straight to the girls' floor rather than go to his dorm and climb down the window.

It was odd to hear the dorms so deathly quiet, even as late as it was there was at least some sort of white background noise made from the inhabitants. It hadn't been that quiet since when they first got there.

Jay gently rapt his knuckles on the door, still taking a precautious look around to make sure no one was around,

"Evie?" he whispered. "It's me."

He slowly opened the door when he heard a low, feminine "Com in" and his eyes widened to what he found in the girls' dorm.

There must have been dozens of white pillar candles scattered everywhere, giving the room an enchanting golden glow. A path of red and white rose petals led the way from the door to Evie's bed, where she lay on her stomach only wearing more rose petals, a single perfect red rose held in her hand as she waited for him with a seductive smile.

Seeing Evie nude and surrounded by rose petals was probably his favorite surprise of all time.

She had a fresh bare face and her hair was completely down, he thought she looked as beautiful as a water nymph from Greek legends.

"I thought the tourney MVP ought to have a proper celebration of his game winning strategy," she purred out as she smelled the rose, her eyes playful and coy.

"This is certainly the best kind of motivation to win every game," he bantered back. He started to carefully take off his jacket and other clothes. He enjoyed the view and wanted to make the night last, so he was in no rush.

He could feel her eyes burn his skin as she watched him as closely as he watched her. Her breath hitched in anticipation as he became shirtless and his hands went to his belt, undoing the clasp and teasingly and almost torturously slow unzipped.

Soon he was as unclothed as she was and he came to the bed, she rose to her knees and they immediately kissed. As entranced as he was by her beauty, he couldn't help but notice something that appeared on her otherwise pristine skin.

He broke the kiss and gently ran his thumb over the design, looked into her eyes; confused and silently asking what it was.

"This is your second surprise. Apparently the Maledictae Grimoira is also the Neudictae Grimoira and it has all sorts of useful spells…such as this Null Rune."

He remained silent as he wasn't sure what that meant and looked more confused than before.

"As long as this is on my skin, then no life will flourish…it's a birth control spell."

Jay had to blink a few times, letting that information sink in. It was certainly welcomed news. He knew it should have been something forefront in their minds but both had a hard time making rational decisions when they were alone together with little to no clothes on.

They had probably dodged a poison apple by tempting fate and not getting pregnant, but he couldn't bring himself to regret anything he's done with Evie.

He kissed her gently, rather than passion it was filled with promises,

"No matter what happens, I'm in this with you."

As much as he believed in Mal's magical skills, there was no such thing as a 100% for sure spell and he wanted her to know he wasn't going anywhere.

She embraced him harder, returning the kiss with her own promises although she couldn't articulate them as well as he could. Deep down she knew he would be a steady and constant presence in her life, hearing him say it out loud just set her heart aflutter and gave her a sense of security she hadn't known in her life before him.

He gently laid her down on the bed, slowly memorizing her body all over again. Although they had been intimate before, declaring their love made everything seem fresh and new. His eyes were open to every facet of Evie and loved everything about her; the good and the bad.

"I want to try something new," she broke their kisses and seemed shy.

"New?"

She bit her lip and nodded, finding courage in his loving eyes.

"You're always hesitant with me, and I love that you always want to make sure I'm OK with everything. But I trust you and you don't have to keep treating me like I'm made of porcelain."

He nodded, knowing that he had always been so careful and she was giving him permission to take some liberties.

"But I also want…" she blushed a deep red, still slightly embarrassed of what she was about to ask.

"Hey," he told her gently. "You never have to be afraid of me."

"I see you on the field and you're so powerful and…aggressive."

The air charged around them with magic, Jay was eager for her to continue.

"I want to see that kind of aggression and power with me…in bed."

He couldn't deny that there were times where he wanted to do more, go faster, be more dominant but he always refrained as he was afraid his strength would hurt her. His blood pumped hotly through him as she gave him permission to not be as gentle.

"I don't want to hurt you," he explained his own fears.

"I don't think you could. I trust you."

His heart fluttered and threatened to burst through his chest, she was the first to trust him so completely and intimately.

"If I start to do anything you don't like, we need a stop word."

She agreed. They were still discovering new things about sex and each other; it would be smart to have a word to let the other know something wasn't good or right and they could stop immediately.

"Appletini," Evie decided on after a few moments.

"What is that?"

"Not sure, I heard a cheerleader say it when she was bragging about a date…I think it's like a really small apple."

"OK, appletini."

They kissed, sealing the promise that they trusted each other and could try something new. There had been something he had wanted to try but felt it was a bit too barbaric.

He lifted her up suddenly and flipped her to her stomach and positioned her where her upper body was lowered and her hips high in the air. He knocked her knees apart and he lined his cock along her pussy. He still hesitated from entering her, wanting to make sure she was OK. But from the slick that was all but pouring out of her, she was more than agreeable to the submissive position she found herself in. She pressed against him, rubbing her core along his hardness to silently give him permission to go on.

Remembering her wishes and listening out for the stop word, he thrust into her with one motion and not hearing any protest he picked up the pace. With no worry about pregnancy, he let himself go in the sensation until all he knew and could feel was Evie.

Jay leaned over and embraced her from behind, holding her weight and immobile as he thrust into her. She reveled in the feeling of being restricted and in his strong arms, she could let go of every worry and fear; Jay had her safe in his arms and he was in control.

Seeing and feeling her submit to him, knowing she was his and his alone had his climax rip through him; more intense than anything they had done before. As he shuddered and emptied himself inside of her, marking her as his from the inside he sought her clit. He would never leave her unsatisfied and as he still thrust inside of her, wanting every last drop of his release inside of her, he rubbed her to her own completion.

They both shook in each other's arms, falling to the bed as both were too weak to hold themselves up.

"I love you," he repeated as he kissed the nape of her neck, still within her. She reached back to run her hands through is damp hair.

"I love you too."

They fell asleep in each other's arms, content in a way they never thought they'd ever get to experience.

---

Carlos had started to head to the boys floor, eager to see what the surprise was.

"Nope, surprise isn't there," Mal impishly told him, rare for her to be so giggly and mysterious.

He was intrigued and let her lead them across the tourney field and into the woods. It was a familiar path to him,

"Why are we going to the field?" he tried to remember if there were any spells she had wanted to attempt.

"That's part of the surprise."

He only smirked and suddenly grabbed her by the waist and twirled her around. She let out delighted laughter, dizzy and happy when he let her down. They kissed, carefree and normal; something they never thought they would ever get to experience.

Whenever it was just the two of them, they couldn't stop smiling. He adored her dimples, and promised himself that he would spend the rest of his life to making them appear as often as possible.

"Lets go, I've been working on this for two days."

She pulled him towards their field and he willingly followed.

"Ah, so that's what those 'girls nights' were about."

She didn't answer but her mischievous smirk told him all he needed to know.

They walked for several yards and he noticed that she started to shiver. It was almost November and the dress she wore did not cover nearly enough to be warm.

He took off his jacket and wrapped it around her shoulders.

"But you'll be cold," she tried to think if there were a portable warming spell and she couldn't recall. "We're not far from the field."

"I'm not cold…" from her look, she didn't really believe him and thought he was just trying to be unnecessarily tough. "No, really. It's actually refreshing."

And it didn't matter to him even if he were cold, he wasn't going to take his jacket back.

"You hated the cold when we were on the island."

"I guess I got used to it, happens when Cruella makes you sleep in a closet for years."

"No talk of her, this is a happy night," she stopped them and ordered, kissed him to make a point.

"I promise."

"Good."

They made it to the field, barren from the late fall season. A firepit had been dug and built, a plaid blanket laid out with a large picnic basket.

His heart ached sweetly at the effort and thought she put into the surprise. The sky was clear and the stars shown as bright the night they first got there.

Fiat Ignis

Green fire ignited from her hand and flew to the firepit, they instantly were enveloped in warmth. She led him to lie down on the blanket and she kneeled down next to him, opening the basket.

She had revealed a dozen chocolate covered strawberries, combining each of their favorite things.

He adjusted so he was laying his head in her lap.

Carlos would swear that night he must have died and awoken in Elysium. Mal's fingers softly combing through his hair, gentle and chocolate sweet kisses between bites of succulent strawberries.

He could stay in that field with her forever.

"This is an amazing surprise, I love it. Thank you."

"I have one last surprise."

"Ms. Lefay, I do believe you spoil me."

"You deserve all of this and more."

Carlos decided that Mal kissing him to drive her point was his favorite.

"And I like spoiling you."

"Well I hope you know I'm taking this as a personal challenge to surprise you next."

"Trust me, this next surprise is for me as much as it's for you."

He leaned on his elbows to prop himself upright, trying to see what she was doing next as she got up; his mind hazy with relaxation and giddy in love. His attention became rapt and his focused cleared when stood at his feet and started to unzip her dress.

Thankfully the magic fire kept them plenty warm as she would have definitely caught a chill, fae or not, when she let her dress fall, stepped outside the cloth, and stood above him in just her lacy panties and bra.

I have definitely died and by some miracle earned a place among the blessed.

Although she wore very little, she couldn't help but feel powerful and sublime as Carlos gazed at her as if she were a love goddess, beauty personified.

Although he wanted to gaze and worship every inch of skin she was willing to show him, he couldn't help but notice the new tattoo she currently had.

Which he was certain she didn't have two days ago.

When she noticed what he was looking at she explained,

"It appears that Book has far more useful spells other than curses, one of them being a birth control rune."

She let the gravity of the news hang in the air, without having to say it out loud she told him they could finally make love without worrying about siring an unwanted child.

She had found a solution to their problem and now there was nothing stopping them from taking each other. All he could do is stare at her in wonder and admiration.

She started to wonder if she had overestimated his readiness, his silence not giving her confidence to go on.

"If you're not ready, we don't have to…I can wait…"

"No, no, no, no, no, no, no, I'm more than ready."

He wanted to make sure she knew his momentary shock into speechless was due to his brain not having enough blood to respond and not an indication of hesitation on his part. He got up and with a snap of his fingers, his clothes had been removed and neatly folded on the ground besides them.

"I do love how well you do that," Mal purred, mimicking the same spell they had practiced enough where they no longer needed words.

"You know Evie would have murdered us if soiled her outfits," he grinned to her, both nude and comfortable under the full October moon.

"It would have been worth it."

He couldn't wait another minute and kissed her deeply.

He then kneeled before her, his goddess of the Moor.

His tongue found its way through her folds and straight to her pearl. He held her steady as her knees became weak under his attention. Her hands gripped his silky hair, the pain a delicious sensation and made him hard and leaking.

She pulled his head away from her, not wanting to cum just yet; in the moment of passion, he had forgotten that she now had a birth control and they could pleasure each other with more than just their mouths. She gently pushed him to his back and she stood above him.

Slowly she lowered herself onto him, feeling the burn of being stretched in such a way. Perhaps they should have taken more time to prepare her, but it was a hurt she had been wanting for so long. She hissed as it felt he was splitting her in half and he completely stilled; wanting to make sure she was OK.

But her smile told him it was a welcome sort of pain, something he knew he enjoyed as well.

Their magic had swirled and crackled above them; silver, magenta, and green dancing amongst the stars.

After a few moments and she had gotten used to his size, she started to slowly ride him. His eyes rolled to the back of his head, lost in pleasure. She picked up the pace, wanting more and more of him. He steadied her hips as she rode him, his own thrusts starting to meet pace with her. His nails turned to claws as they dug into her, the added sensation pushing her over the edge.

Blood red eyes met luminescent green,

"Mal, I love you," Carlos huffed out as he met his own release as her core pulsed around him.

Too lost in each other, they didn't notice their magic explode from them; power emitting from the field and all through Auradon Prep.

There weren't enough people in the school to notice the lights flickering or feel the pulse of power.

They lay with each other under the stars, both thinking their first time was perfect and couldn't be anywhere more beautiful. Neither of them thought anything needed to be said. The fire kept them warm enough through the night that they slept under the watchful full moon.

It wasn't until the next morning when they thought they ought to go back to the school even though it was doubtful anyone would notice they were missing until much later. But the field was in full bloom and lush with greenery,

"Glad we don't have to explain this," Carlos joked but in awe of what their love had wrought.

"We should still get away while we can, in case someone decides on a Sunday morning hike."

They dressed and made their way back to campus in their formal wear. It took twice as long as neither could resist kissing each other every few miles.

---

So a lot happened! lol. So part of the delay was how much I wanted to have happen and it totally grew way beyond what I thought. So this chapter is basically twice as long as my normal chapters. Would you guys prefer to keep them around 10-12k and just have a cliff hanger-y type break between them OR just let my muse write as she will and the chapters are as long as they will be? Given if the latter, the chapters would be further between updates.

I also created JPGs of the white boards the band made up, please see my tumblr to see those.

Thanks so much for reading! Please leave a review!