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.

9. Chapter 9

rose1041 I'm so sorry for not responding! Thank you so much for the review!

I'm trying something where I am cutting this chapter, it was originally twice as long, so I can post quicker. So hopefully you guys like it!

*Possible Trigger Warnings* I don't want to say exactly what because I don't want to spoil the plot...so here is warning to embrace and fortify yourself. I'm sorry if this isn't sufficient 1) triggers are very personal and nuanced, I just don't know what to write half the time and 2) I don't want to give the plot away. I apologize to those that feel that is callous, but I'm making a creative executive decision.

---

Archery class was canceled for the day due to rain. Evie took the opportunity to go back to the sewing room and work on items for the Winter Recital, she was determined to be one of the students to get a showcase.

For the same reason, Carlos decided to go to one of the empty dance rooms, practice so his solo would be flawless.

Mal thought of taking a nap, but she realized she hadn't had much one on one time with Jay in the longest time so she followed him to Strength and Conditioning class and crashed it. The teacher was the wrestling coach and didn't seem to have a problem with Mal's presence. There were some other girls from other grades also in the class as well as Lonnie.

Jay had developed a camaraderie with most of this classmates, he jovially said hi or high fived people as he passed them. There was no one he would really consider a friend but they had all come to the realization that he was not there to hurt them. The awkward first weeks had faded away and most were self-motivated to do whatever exercise they thought they needed to work on.

Mal was treated to a lecture on never skipping "leg day."

She was not a fan of the humidity that quickly rose in the room due to everyone working out, the smell was quite off putting as well.

She didn't think she'd miss being outside with the open fresh air.

Both Isle teens were given wide berth in the weight room. Although the other students had come to trust Jay, the same couldn't be said for Mal. The rest of the class had all gone to their preferred bench or apparatus, trying to subtly listen in and spy on the mysterious fae.

They weren't subtle enough and Mal had the foresight to sneakily inscribe a mumble rune onto her and Jay. Anyone listening in wouldn't be able to make out what they were saying, most assumed they were just out of ear shot and none brave enough to try to come closer.

She could feel their eyes watching her, she knew they wondered why she wore long sleeves and she had to resist the temptation to blind them with her magic.

That ought to teach them to not be so nosey.

But she refrained although anger pulsed under her skin, her fae nature fighting to punish humans for their hubris and disrespect. Luckily Jay was there to distract her from most of it, she focused on his lessons as she pushed the weight bar up and down in slow controlled motions.

Jay hovered over her, making sure her form was right and ready to pull off the weight if it looked like she struggled to keep going or if it were about to fall on her.

He took advantage of their quasi private moment away from their significant others and when the rest of the class wouldn't be able to understand them.

"You could have given me a heads up, you know," he somewhat admonished her. "I was miserable for like three days."

He didn't need to fully explain what he meant, she knew right away he was talking about the three days it took Evie to confess her feelings.

"Meh, you needed the lesson in humility. Misery builds character," she told him sarcastically while still trying to do her exercises.

He rolled his eyes and part of him was amused, he knew he could be the epitome of a cocky jock sometimes.

"But," she went on, knowing he had been hurting and it wasn't something she had planned on. "Evie was supposed to tell you on Thursday. I'm not sure what happened but she chickened out. I would have told you Thursday night but when I asked her about it, she begged me to keep quiet another day. She promised that she was going to make it up to you on Homecoming. I told her that the surprise needed to include nudity. She had this stupid sheer white flimsy lacy thing she wanted to wear, I told her it would be wasted on you."

Jay couldn't agree more, when it came to Evie being clothed he definitely believed that "less was more."

"You really are my best friend."

"Damn straight I am."

They both laughed and bonded over their memorable and eventful homecomings.

---

The magic from Mal and Carlos' night of passion had subsided by the next weekend, the field of indigo and irises had become dormant with fall once again. The Isle Four made camp, taking advantage of the weekend and to give the boys their own Null Rune tattoo.

The magical fire was roaring, keeping them toasty warm as the sun started to set. They had a few rabbits that Carlos had been able to trap roasting, Evie minding the fire and using some field herbs she had gathered before the frost set in.

"Oh that rabbit smells so good," Jay almost drooled, he couldn't wait to bite into Evie's famous roasted rabbit.

Her cooking was one of the scarce good memories they had of the Isle, the Mainland fare was rich and plentiful, but they had missed some of the dishes they had when growing up. While they didn't have it often, they did have their own version of comfort food.

Since he was so cute and gave her a compliment, Evie broke off a piece of meat for him to taste. He playfully nipped at her fingers as he savored the tidbit she offered, warm happy memories of similar cookouts they would have whenever they had meat to eat flooded his mind.

He gave her a quick kiss before leaving her alone to keep cooking, he also looked forward to the tiny potatoes and other root vegetables they stole from the kitchens. To finish things off, they had a bottle of apple wine they had fermented themselves in a secret distiller not too far from where they were camping. They were lucky that most other students, as well as the adults, had no interest in traveling that far into the woods, and they were essentially isolated and could relax.

They had also nicked several loaves of bread and enjoyed some of the strawberry preserves they had made. Their secret root cellar they had dug out was filled from top to floor with preservatives, vegetables, wine, and dried meats in case they ever needed to make a getaway. It also held bags of money they were able to obtain from selling stolen goods.

It was surprising at how willing other students were to not ask questions for items they wanted. Anything they couldn't sell on campus, was given to a human groundskeeper who was more than willing to pay and sell outside of Auradon Prep.

They enjoyed camping and being out in nature while they waited for nightfall. They appreciated their time away from Auradon Prep and the new stresses of student life. It was still easier than living on the Isle, but they cherished the break nonetheless.

They spent the hours talking about magic, practicing spells they had advanced to non-verbal hand gestures, and imagining a future outside the Isle and Auradon Prep.

Night finally fell and as they got closer to midnight, Carlos was all but taking a nap as Mal drew the Null Rune onto his skin; the stars twinkling as if giving their blessing. He was completely nude and on his back, his arms crossed behind his head and he lay perfectly still while Mal drew with careful embellishment and in the black/red/white colour scheme he preferred; he could pass it off as some sort of tribal tattoo if anyone had ever asked about it. They figured in the unlikely event anyone ever saw that all four of them had matching ink, their cover story was that it was some sort of graffiti symbol from the Isle.

"You know you guys don't need to get this done," Mal tried to tell them again when she was done and satisfied with the design. "Both Evie and I have it, it should be enough to cover us safely. The Sealing Spell burns like hades."

Her boyfriend grabbed her hand and kissed her knuckles,

"We know. But it's not fair to leave you solely responsible for birth control. We should do our share."

With anyone else, most girls would have thought their boyfriend wanting birth control for devious reasons, but with Jay and Carlos the girls knew they were being genuine. She sighed, falling in love with him just a little more than she was yesterday and gave him a chaste kiss; her forehead touching his.

"OK Jay, you're up," Mal commanded and he started to disrobe in obedience and took Carlos' place on the blanket.

"You can just make mine black. I don't need all those fancy colours," he told her as he laid down.

"Not even the dark red and gold?"

Jay just rolled his eyes, he didn't see the need to make it so complicated.

"But the gold actually shimmers and I stole them just for you," Mal wasn't pouting but it was close.

He rolled his eyes again and gave a dramatic head loll, but part of him was flattered.

"Fine, make it all pretty."

Mal did a little bounce in place as she was always happy to have free artistic reign. Respecting that he didn't want something elaborate, she kept it simpler and more straight lines rather than the calligraphy she did for herself and the others. When she was done, his lines were stark and bold, almost savage; more akin to his personality.

She was quite proud of her work and pleased they trusted her to do such delicate rune work on their skin. They would have these tattoos for several years, it should be something they liked.

Jay looked down and he could admit it was rather wicked and cool looking, he knew Mal would do an excellent job.

"OK, stand up," she gently pat his thigh and he stood next to Carlos. Both naked as the day they were born and Mal extinguished the magical fire so the only light for them to see by was from the stars.

Evie stood to the side, arms around herself trying to keep warm now that the fire was out. Mal tried to make it quick so they wouldn't freeze to death; she knew exactly how cold it was to stand naked in late October, it was even colder in early November.

She did think it a bit odd that Carlos seemed immune to the frigid temperature, their breaths visible in the air and Jay's skin was covered in goosebumps and his teeth started to chatter.

Her boyfriend stood there, relaxed and comfortable as if it were a spring day.

She recalled him telling her that he was probably used to it because of all the times Cruella made him sleep in her coat closet with only a dirty mattress, if he were lucky, and he couldn't even use the coats for warmth.

She was reminded of something, something about the cold. Something about it and Carlos, a connection she was certain she knew but it wasn't coming to her.

She shook her head, she'd figure it out later she needed to concentrate on powering the runes.

She lay her palms on their stomachs. Although a somewhat intimate area, neither Carlos nor Evie felt any stirring of jealousy; even with the latter's previous suspicion. This was a powerful moment and made them all closer for it. Mal concentrated and willed her energy to power the runes.

Both boys felt a tingle where the design was and the rune glowed green with her magic. They felt the power surge through their blood and they were almost giddy with the magic high.

"Enjoy that while you can," she warned. "You guys better lay down for the next part."

They swallowed hard, not looking forward to the sealing spell. Both girls warned them repeatedly that it hurt, burned like fire and neither of them wanted to feel the pain. But they agreed that it wouldn't be fair to the girls to let them take lone responsibility for birth control, not to mention to bear that pain by themselves.

It was also pragmatic, more protection was always better. While Auradon all but outlawed magic, there were still magical areas, objects, and people that could mess with spells. During her research Mal had come across mention of an Enchanted Lake on school property. It was listed as an amenity of the school's. Its water had the ability to break any spell, which the school boasted that if there were ever an errant spell cast by some evil villain then no one had to worry. If either girl had swum in its waters, they would have inadvertently broken the rune enchantment and they wouldn't know until she or Evie became pregnant.

So it was sensible for all four of them to be tattooed.

The boys laid down on either side of Mal as she kept kneeling. She had reignited the fire so they were at least warm. Evie came over and offered them both a thick stick.

"A bite? Really?" Jay asked, starting to lose his nerve.

Evie only nodded her head, her eyes darting down in guilt.

Not having any other choice, they both took a stick and placed it in their mouths. Mal did not look happy to be doing the next spell, Jay reached out to Carlos' hand and held it tight.

They both felt better to have each other, going through the same experience.

From what I have created, let nothing tear asunder.

Mal's voice turned a deep ethereal vibrato, green light and smoke emitted from her hands and again her magic lit their rune designs. Instead of a heady rush of magic, slowly the magic made its way through every inch of the tattoo and started to burn as if she were branding them with a hot fire poker.

Neither boy could refrain from the pained screams that ripped from their mouths, the sound only muffled because of their bites. Their clasped hands squeezing to the point of pain but it paled in comparison to what was being seared onto their stomachs, their veins popping out and muscles strained. Mal wished she could stop but stopping then would mean they would have to start again. Her magic was almost through the entire design and she willed her power to go through quickly.

Evie huddled closer to the fire as the wind picked up, the gale almost howling in pain with the boys and stinging her face. The air was ice cold, much colder for November, and even the magical fire was having a hard time keeping her warm.

Mal remained locked and ignored the glacial wind, intent to only have to make them go through this pain once; her eyes glowing a fiery green in her determination.

It was finally done and the sealing spell was complete, the boys had tears streaming down their eyes and their breathing labored. Jay didn't want to move but he could hear Carlos almost wheezing as if he was struggling to breath.

Mal recognized that he was having the beginnings of a panic attack.

"Jay, move away from him."

Although that felt counter-intuitive and his first instinct was to protect his friend, he listened to Mal and dragged himself away. The pain of the tattoo still too fresh and it hurt to move too much.

"Carlos, you're safe. You're not trapped anywhere. You're safe," his girlfriend reminded him as his mind tried to trick him into thinking he was somewhere else. Somewhere on the Isle where he couldn't escape.

The pain of the rune wasn't the same as the pain of being caught in a bear trap, but it triggered those memories nonetheless.

Mal made exaggerated deep breaths so he could hear her.

"Breath with me Carlos, we're all here with you. We're all here to help you. You're not alone."

The more she kept talking, the more he realized he wasn't in the woods on the Isle, trapped and alone. He had people to help him. If he were ensnared, then they would open the device that clamped down on his leg and he wouldn't be losing so much blood.

There was no blood and he wasn't going to die scared and alone.

He had friends and they were there to help. He focused on her breathing, pushing out all other thoughts and memories. He breathed along with her and it was the only thing that stopped him from passing out.

Several long moments passed before his breathing returned to normal and he could think straight. He hated seeing how worried his friends were for him, but they all kept quiet and waited for him to indicate that he was ready to move.

Carlos took one last deep breath and he made himself stand up. He was a little shaky on his feet but he managed to find his balance. Jay had followed suit and Evie was ready with their clothes. They dressed in silence and Mal busied herself with tending to a magical fire that would burn regardless of how much wood there was or what she did, but she couldn't just sit there and do nothing. Although she wanted to hug him close and never let go, pepper him with kisses and promise she'd never hurt him like that again and apologize profusely; she knew that was the exact opposite of what he needed at the moment. She learned her lesson years ago that her instinct to coddle him was more detrimental to him than helpful. He needed breathing room and space and she'd let him have that.

It was nearing 2:00 in the morning, the rune was now permanently etched into their skin and all four should be well protected against siring or conceiving a child. Evie had an ointment of calendula, comfrey, and lavender to sooth the burn. Jay patiently kept still as she applied the balm; he kept from wincing as he knew she was trying to be as gentle as possible.

She simply gave the jar to Carlos as he wasn't ready to be touched yet.

The mood was rather somber, and even though the ritual was successful it was lost with the shadow life from the Isle had cast upon them. They all decided it was time to call it a night. They put out the file and gathered their things, they walked back to the dorm in silence and even though Carlos hadn't said anything, Mal knew that night she would not join him in the boys' room. Jay also respected his space and the three went to the girl's room.

As Carlos carefully undressed, paying special attention not to disturb his tattoo, he hated that he got that way and berated himself for acting so hysterical. It was rare that Mal would ever sleep in her assigned room those days, but he just couldn't be around people at the moment. He needed space to make sure he didn't get overwhelmed or come back to the feeling of being trapped.

He knew Mal understood and it's why she backed off and didn't press him. But it still made him feel guilty to push her away. He just had to remind himself that it wouldn't be forever and she understood. While others may find her abrupt and tactless, it was comforting to him. If she had really minded or was tired of it, she wouldn't hesitate to tell him so and cut him loose. The fact she bore his need for space patiently just showed how much she loved him.

That's what he had to keep reminding himself over and over again.

Even Beezy seemed to sense his need to be alone and didn't come to his bed like he usually would, opting to lay at the foot of Jay's bed that night.

Carlos pulled the covers off his bed, even bedsheets and comforters were too stifling and he laid down, staring at the ceiling and hoping he could find rest that night. He tried to think of anything other than being stranded in the woods, surrounded by dark imposing trees and struggling to open a bear trap and free his leg. Echoes of pain ran up and down his right calf, wondering what had saved him from not only bleeding out but any other complications he could have faced such as infection.

He wondered if he'd ever be truly free from the ghosts of the Isle of the Lost.

---

Carlos managed to fall into a dreamless sleep, thankful for small divine favors and he had felt better. He met his friends in the mess hall for breakfast, all willing to pretend last night's episode didn't happen unless he wanted to talk about it (he never did) and get on with their lives.

There were small hints they were worried about him, such as Mal's extra tight hug and repeated professions of her love and that she was sorry that the spell had hurt so much; completely leaving out his panic attack and focusing on the pain. Jay had given him a light punch in the arm but his smile didn't reach his eyes. Evie had shoved food towards him, not paying any attention to quantity and even if he were starving, there would be no way for him to finish it all by himself.

He was grateful that none of them would pry, even if he wanted to talk about it he had no idea how to articulate why he had those episodes and what, if anything, they could have done to help beyond what they already did.

They were all broken children from the Isle and there wasn't anything to make that go away. So instead they talked about the coming school week and how much homework they should expect.

Ignoring their personal troubles was easier on the Isle. Survival trumped everything, it was easy to disregard their demons when they were worried about making it to the next week or even the next day.

In Auradon, worrying about school and grades paled in comparison and it was that much harder to simply ignore their past. But none of them knew what else to do as it was all they had ever known.

It took a little over a week for Carlos to completely come back to his usual self. He was happy to continue fiddling with computer hardware his class let him have while he learned more advanced lessons. His professor was surprised he had such a strong foundation, as most assumed the Isle was little more than a primitive tech-less wasteland.

He had to keep reminding them that mad scientists, some with more than one advanced degree, also inhabited the Isle and decided to teach in order to fill their days. Most of his knowledge of computers was on technology decades old but he had a solid foundation and he was eager to learn.

The staff was doubly impressed when he was able to take the most cutting edge 3D printer and made improvements.

None of them wanted to admit that the inventor of the 3D printer was currently banished to the Isle, they preferred to forget that much of the technology they enjoyed currently was rooted in villainy.

Their moral outrage only extended to what was convenient to them.

Carlos had tutored under him directly and was already familiar with how it worked. He tried not to beam with pride when he was asked to work on special projects. Word got out that he had a modified printer and for some reason Chad Charming became obsessed with it.

Luckily it only took one rather aggressive confrontation of Carlos throwing him out of his room for the Charming scion to get the hint that he was not welcome uninvited. He thought the lesser prince ought to consider himself lucky that Mal wasn't there as he was certain his girlfriend would have had no problem resorting to curses to keep the prince out. Carlos didn't even want to think what would have happened to Chad if he had caught him and Mal in a compromising position.

Although he had the tattoo for over a week, he wasn't ready to be intimate again until then. Mal wasn't one to talk about her feelings, so he wasn't sure what was going through her mind but she had not once reproached him nor had she initiated any intimate contact. He had appreciated that but part of him worried if it was some sign of indifference.

When he invited her to the room that night, he found he had nothing to worry about. When he kissed her and she enthusiastically kissed him back, he let her hands roam where ever she wanted them to; both were touched starved as he took the time he needed to recover.

As they lay together, enjoying the closeness and he wondered why he needed time away from this. He felt love, not entrapment when she cuddled to him and she lay her head on his chest.

Still, whatever he went through it was over and they could enjoy the fruit of their pain and he was just as content as he was when they first made love in the field of indigo and violets.

"I'm sorry about this week," he told her as he laced his hand in hers, breaking the peaceful silence and unable to pretend that week never happened.

She turned her head and rested her chin on his chest, blew the hair that had covered her eyes and looked straight at him.

"You have nothing to be sorry about."

She wished she were more articulate, to be able to tell him that what they had was far more than just sex and she could go weeks or however long it took for him to be OK. She didn't have the words, tender thoughts and feelings were not what she grew up learning. So she nuzzled into him and squeezed him close, hoping he understood that she was there for him no matter what.

He wished he could tell her that those simple words were more than enough, that simply by being there for him and waiting for him while he worked through the garbage the Isle left him with was more than he ever thought anyone would grant him, much less the heiress of the Isle. He hated that he got that way, he wished he could be as strong as she was.

But all he could do was bring their interlaced hands to his lips and kiss her knuckles, pulling her closer to make up for all the contact he denied her that week.

They were with each other and safe, that's what mattered.

---

The tattoos granted them an intoxicating independence they had never known before, even more than when they first left the Isle. They had each grown up knowing that loving each other freely could prove fatal. The infant mortality rate was only challenged by the fatal maternity rate.

For being an uptight private school, the students were left largely alone and with their years of experience sneaking around, the Isle Four could get away with whatever they wanted it seemed.

That new freedom was heady and made them think of nothing else, and for the first time in their lives they were just teenagers in love and didn't have to worry of the consequences.

They were away from their parents, they didn't have to worry about food, and they now didn't have to worry about unwanted children. What else mattered besides each other?

Each sat in class, distracted for when their next break could be and when they could again be with the love of their life. Up until then, they always made an effort to appear engaged and respectful, knowing that eyes were constantly on them and most assuming they'd fail.

After being there for several months, they had proven they were just as smart, if not smarter, than most of their peers. So they thought they could relax a bit and let their mind wander.

They had all figured out that lunch time was the best time to sneak into unused rooms or hidden supply closets for quick rendezvous. The thrill of breaking the rules and not getting caught made the sex all the better.

Every time they met in 6th period study hall, Mal and Jay couldn't help but giggle for ten minutes – baffling the monitor that wondered what was so funny.

The best friends had an unspoken, as Carlos and Evie would murder them, competition of who could have the most sex in the most places.

At first, Jay was winning because he had access to the theater and all its back rooms. Evie also had a flair for wearing the costumes and "acting out" parts of the play with their added risqué additions.

Mal soon caught up when she found out Carlos had a fondness for playing "Professor and Student" in the computer lab. It also extended to any classroom they had access to.

Carlos also had a fondness for:

Librarian and Man with Overdue Books
Attorney Defender and Delinquent
Queen and Servant
Leader of the Isle and Consort

Mal caught onto a theme with Carlos and she was more than happy to sport her tight French braids or severely pulled back hair bun to make his fantasies come true. Evie didn't ask many questions when Mal asked for "smart" business wear. She didn't know if her designer friend knew it was for "acting" with Carlos or if she thought Mal was preparing for an occasion where she'd have to look professional. Either way, she had plenty of outfits to play out whatever fantasy her boyfriend wanted.

Students and adults all noticed there was some sort of shift to the Isle Four, no one could fail to see they were all that more relaxed and happy. Even Mal, the resident Ice Queen was smiling more than ever.

Their good mood seemed to be contagious and most others could feel joy radiating off the four and it made them happy too.

Most assumed they were finally fitting and settling in, of course they were – who in Auradon wasn't happy?

Only a few observant band members knew better.

"I know they're fucking. No one is that happy to be here. They must have figured out a way to sneak in condoms or birth control. We need to find out and get in on it," Addison conspired with Doug.

"Pffftt…good one," he snorted, thinking she must have been joking. "Oh, you're serious," when she just frowned at him.

"And who exactly is going to broach the subject with them?" he asked skeptically, no way in any hell would he even think of asking Mal about her sex life. He felt he knew Carlos the least, and Evie was out of the question as he'd probably die of embarrassment asking such a beautiful girl about birth control. Jay was his most likely candidate, but the Isle Four were always together. He couldn't think of a time when they could approach him alone.

That deflated Addison's idea, knowing that was the fatal flaw in their plan for all the reasons Doug was thinking. All they could do was look on with envy and awe.

The Villain Children's fun had only lasted a couple weeks. Unfortunately they could only daydream and choose sex over studying for so long before it caught up with them.

The Auradon Lit professor had almost apologetically placed Mal's quiz on her desk, wondering what happened when she was usually such a good student.

The D- was a bright blood red and almost mocked her for her pervious happiness. The Isle Heiress could only close her eyes and berate herself, crumbling the offending test as she gently hit her head. She knew full well why she got such a bad grade and couldn't believe she had been so careless. Looking over to Jay, it was clear to her that he didn't do so great either.

It was all the more irritating when students around her started to whisper, all speculating what happened or sneering that it was just a matter of time.

Mal couldn't help the green glow of her eyes, infuriated at the situation and it was enough to shut the class up.

At lunch, they met up with Evie who also had her fair share of poor tests.

"Where's Carlos?" Mal asked, wondering why he wasn't there to meet them.

"I don't know. We both almost failed the last Calc tests and I haven't seen him since."

"Shit."

Out of all of them, Carlos would have been the one to take bad grades the hardest. He was seen as the shining academic star alongside Evie, both wanted so badly to show the school they weren't Isle trash.

All three rushed to the dorms, hoping he was studying so another incident wouldn't happen or simply moping about. Mal started to worry when it looked like the goblin crew had come through and done a particularly good job at cleaning every inch of the place and Carlos nowhere in sight.

"Maybe he's in the field, get some space," Jay suggested, knowing how claustrophobic his friend got when he was in duress.

"No, I know where he is. Get back to lunch, and if I'm not back by dinner just go on without us."

Jay and Evie didn't argue, but both looked worried and wanted to help. Mal left without another word and they followed her orders.

It didn't take long for her to find a goblin. They were unobtrusive entities within the school, employed because there were so many of them and most wanted to fade into the background of Auradon after the defeat of Maleficent. It seemed most students treated them as invisible servants and probably never even talked to one.

Most goblins were only three feet tall with green mottled skin, sharp fangs, and hognosed. Auradon Prep tried to make them seem more domesticated by giving them servant uniforms. They wore little black and white tuxes that Mal thought was ridiculous but the attire made them seem harmless.

"Mavard," she called out when she saw a familiar goblin. The creature immediately stopped what he was doing and stood at attention. He looked at her wearily, knowing who she was and whose daughter she was. While he would have preferred not to be caught talking to the daughter of Maleficent, his training didn't allow him to ignore a student, even if that student was a child of a villain he used to serve.

Mal was one of the few people in all of Auradon Prep, however, that ever treated him and the other goblins as if they were sentient creatures deserving respect and not just mindless domestics. This wasn't new treatment nor was it limited to the school; it was one of many reasons why the goblins joined Maleficent's side. Normally their conversations were restricted to small talk and pleasantries, maybe a request for extra bedding or cleaning; they both knew that people would get suspicious if they dallied too long.

"Where do you do laundry?"

It was an odd question, but he was aware of why she was asking.

"Please follow me," Mavard said solemnly and started to walk, Mal following silently. They left the castle and winded down a narrow path just outside the dorms, well-worn but only traveled by goblin.

She wasn't sure why, but she had figured there would have been laundry facilities somewhere in the castle; but it seemed that Auradon Prep didn't want any of the help's work to be anywhere near their chargers. The goblins were to be as unseen and inconspicuous as possible.

No wonder all the students think all the cleaning is done by magic.

Mal scoffed at her thought, she didn't understand why the students at Auradon Prep were so oblivious of those who helped them live basically with every aspect of their life. If there were no goblins, she was certain the entire school would crumble into chaos soon after.

He led her to a simple tan building, the air filled with the sound of commercial dryers constantly tumbling. She walked into a humid and hot room, the whirring of the machines louder and the smell of laundry soap and dryer sheets filled her nose. There were strings upon strings of delicate items air drying; the hissing of steam irons to get the perfect crease in the pants and skirt pleats, there was a small path besides piles and piles of perfectly folded uniforms and items yet to be washed.

It reminded her of the brothel, the laundry a herculean task that would never be finished; just permanent piles and piles that never went away. She made her way through the heated room, taking off her blazer and rolling up her sleeves to try to get more comfortable.

She finally found Carlos in the back, with the vats of steaming water to clean clothes that were too delicate to wash in the machines and had to be done by hand. Carlos was stripped down to his white undershirt and khakis, sweating bullets as he stirred the laundry with a large wooden paddle.

His hair curling in the heat and humidity, his brow furrowed and utterly focused on the task at hand.

Suddenly she was back on the Isle, waiting for Carlos to finish his chores and having to listen to Cruella's shrill voice telling him to hurry up and then her dumping even more on him to do.

Why would he come back here?

She wondered how long he had been there, must have been since that morning from the state of his hands: knuckles white from gripping the paddle so hard, cracked and starting to bleed from the harsh chemicals and hot water.

She was certain that he knew she was there, it wasn't like she was trying to hide. But he made no move to acknowledge her presence and she got the distinct feeling he wanted to be alone.

Normally she would give him his space, but this wasn't a panic attack where he needed space. He was overworking himself and at some point, the goblins or even teachers would step in after they finally noticed his absence; she couldn't risk an adult seeing him in such a condition. They'd either butt into their business and given Carlos' state, who knew how the magical teen would lash out.

"Carlos," she tried to get his attention. "Carlos," she tried again, louder, when he just kept stirring the pot. "You need to stop…we have to get back to school. The teachers are probably mad that we're missing classes."

She did her best to reason with him, but it seemed he was stubbornly determined to just keep doing laundry.

"Please Carlos," she tried softer, thinking of all the ways she could get through to him. "You're hurting yourself, you don't need to do this."

Still, no matter what she said or in what tone, he was just stirring the pot and ignoring her.

Mal was not known for her patience, growing up on the Isle and being groomed to be the next Leader, she was not used to just being ignored and it started to grate on her. She tried a few more times to reason with him and he still acted as if she wasn't there.

She finally lost her patience.

With the flick of her wrists and precise finger movements, she had magically stayed his hands and she made the paddle disappear.

Carlos knew what he was doing was harmful, his hands had been cramping and his skin had started to crack and peel from the almost boiling water and harsh detergent the goblins used. But he was angry and lost, the first bad grade he had ever gotten and he didn't know what else to do. On the Isle, his mother would have him doing chores from dawn to dusk, sometimes even through the night in order to get everything neat and tidy.

Cleaning is all you're good for.

The cold voice would repeat over and over again in his head. The failed test had proven that he wasn't meant for school, that it was a waste of time and he should get back to what he knew he couldn't mess up.

Mal was his girlfriend, but the voice told him it was only a matter of time before she saw how worthless he was. In Auradon, she would have no need for him; soon she'd find someone worthier of her time and love.

He knew Ben was attracted to her. Even without his keen senses, he saw the longing looks the Crown Prince gave the fae when she wasn't looking. He knew others could see it too, Audrey wasn't completely paranoid and others had gossiped about it as well; all the late nights they spent on the Isle program, he wasn't surprised the future King held feelings for Mal.

So many people could see it, why would Mal stay with him when she could be a Queen?

An ugly anger had started to grow in the pit of his stomach. He wished she would just stop pretending and leave him alone. He didn't know how long she would keep trying, but it broke at what little patience he had when she wouldn't get the hint to leave him be.

When she used magic to restrain him and to disappear the paddle, he couldn't hold it in any longer.

The anger, disappointment, fear, and sense of worthlessness all came pouring out of him and he couldn't stop it.

"We do not use magic against each other!" he growled out, his eyes a deep crimson and his hair all wild. His anger was enough to break him out of her magical hold and she stepped back, surprised he was able to do so and that her normally sweet Carlos was angry enough to yell at her.

"You cannot just use magic on me whenever you feel ignored. It's called taking a hint! I don't want to talk to you. I don't want to be around you. You can't just show up and think you make everything better. Being together too much is what got us in this mess!"

Mal stayed still, not making a move while he vented out his anger and frustration. Each point he made felt like a red hot needle being stabbed into her heart. She wanted to yell back, she wanted to tell him it's not her fault, or at least not just her fault, that they got the bad grades. He wasn't exactly refusing her advances or suggesting they ought to study. Perhaps she knew she would have been stronger, but all she wanted to do was be with him. To be together in all the ways they were denied on the Isle. She wanted to yell at him to stop being so irrational and that it was just one failed test. One bad test wasn't going to end their year at Auradon Prep. She wanted to scream that she was just trying to help and was doing her best.

But yelling back was not something she had ever grown up doing, lest she get more cuts down her back or something worse. So she stood motionless and looked down, waiting for it to be over.

Carlos wanted to tear his heart out, hating how cold and still Mal had gotten, how she couldn't meet his eyes. He knew she was just trying to help and neither of them how to do that. He didn't even know what he needed help with. He wished he were the type to know when he had done something wrong and just stop and apologize, but his blood ran hot and angry.

Seeing how he hurt her, made him even angrier. He wasn't even sure to who the anger was even directed; to himself for reacting in such a way or to her, for not fighting back and telling him he was a waste of time and not worth all this effort which the voice told him she had to be thinking.

The air grew thick and started to crackle with power, their hurt and anger causing a magical maelstrom. Through his haze of anger, he knew he couldn't use magic against her. No matter how angry he got, he couldn't cross that line. He would also never raise a hand to her either, that's not who he was.

But the fury had to go somewhere, so he decided to take it out on the laundry room.

The laundry vat was well over a hundred pounds filled with hot water and clothes. Carlos turned it over as if it weighed nothing. Anything in his way was fair game to his rage. Tables and benches were tossed into walls and shattered into splinters, water had soaked the floor and he left destruction in his wake.

Soon there was nothing left to break and he stood alone, breathing heavily and seeing the damage he had done.

All the anger had left him and all he was left with was shame and guilt. He looked down, his hands had turned to claws, bleeding with cuts and splinters from his rampage. He looked over, Mal was still there, calm as ever as she waited for him to come back to himself; the only proof of her inner turmoil were the tears that gathered in her eyes but she refused to let fall lest she show any weakness.

The fight had gone from him, he was exhausted and ashamed of his behavior. He stumbled backwards until he hit the wall, sliding down to the ground and he put his head in his hands.

"I'm sorry," he said brokenly, tears starting to run down his face and once they started, he couldn't get them to stop.

Mal finally moved from her spot, knowing whatever was in his system he had purged. She approached him, timidly hover her hand over him; wanting to comfort him but unsure if he would welcome her touch.

This was so different than anything they had gone through before. This wasn't a panic attack, this was something alien.

When he looked up from behind his hands, he saw that she was afraid to touch him; he wondered if she was afraid that he would ever take his anger out on her and he hated himself all the more because of that.

So he gently reached out, hoping she wouldn't recoil from his touch and especially since his hands had not gone back to normal. He brushed his tongue against his teeth and could feel the elongated fangs.

I'm a monster.

He didn't understand how she was still there, anyone else would have run a long time ago and he wouldn't have blamed them.

But she was still there, she was trying to get through to him but neither knew how to do that.

She let him take her hand and she embraced him, hoping the closeness would calm him down. She let him cry, wanting him to expel whatever demon he was fighting and she would stay with him until it did.

"Sometimes I hear her voice in my head," he tried to explain to her after a while and unsure of how much time had past, wanting her to know why all of this had happened.

He didn't need to explain who the "her" was, Mal knew Cruella's evilness sometimes haunted him just like Maleficent's had to her.

"I keep hearing her tell me that school is a waste of time…that sooner or later they're all going to realize that I don't belong here…I'm just good for menial housework."

"It's just one test," Mal tried to rationalize for him, speaking gently. It seemed so simple and obvious to her, but if he needed to be told then she would do it. "We have plenty of extra credit to cover it. Our average grade is still an A…I'm sure the professors will have even more, so it'll be like it never happened."

Carlos listened and he could see the logic. He knew the math, he could figure it out quickly that she was right, it was just one test.

But that oily and malevolent voice that wouldn't leave him alone said otherwise and it poisoned his every thought. That this was just the first of many tests he would fail. He'd fail because he was weak, lazy, and useless.

The voice that haunted him, telling him he wasn't worthy of his place at the school. That he wasn't worthy of Mal. That he wasn't worthy of the friendship Evie and Jay gave him. He was only good for cleaning and he'd be lucky if Auradon Prep allowed him to do the laundry or clean the dorms. The voice tried to convince him even then he might not be worth that as there were countless goblins to do the job.

That voice usually overwhelmed him and he believed it for so long, but then he heard Mal's voice pierce through the echo of doubt.

"It'll be ok, we'll study more. We can ask for more extra credit. We just got carried away because of the tattoos. But we learned our lesson, we can do better."

He trusted Mal, she was always so confident and sure. If she said it would be ok, he started to believe her over Cruella's voice.

They stayed like that for a while, Carlos needed the reassurance and contact and Mal would be there to give it to him. She eyed the startled goblins, she worried that they would report them.

With a green flamed hand, she released her magic to put right all that Carlos had broken. Soon enough, everything flew to their proper place and rebuilt itself. The water flowed back into the vat as it stood pristinely where it used to. The clothes where hung back and everything looked as it should.

No one would be able to tell that anything happened. She caught Mavard's eye, an unspoken agreement passed between them. He would not report them for the destruction, nor would he or any goblin report that she could wield magic.

Mavard still had respect for the former Protector of the Moor. Although he was on the losing side, he didn't think it was the wrong one. Clearly Maleficent's daughter was cut from a different cloth. The Great Dragon of Auroria would not have ever shown any type of compassion, he was certain that if young Carlos had such an episode front of Maleficent, he would have been turned into a crow or some other type of creature post haste.

He wanted to see how Mal would do in Auradon. He thought she would go far and would be a sight to see.

Once Carlos was finally calm and ready to go back to school, he apologized to the goblins and promised he would never do such a thing again. They readily accepted his apology, part of them irritated at the humans that taught them. Clearly the teens were magical and needed tutelage on how to control it. But with Auradon's de facto illegalization of magic, they were left to learn on their own. The servants knew it was not totally the teens' fault that things got out of control, it was in a young one's nature.

Mal looked Carlos over, making sure all his unknown magical heritage was gone from sight. He still looked a bit worse for wear, tired and exhausted but utterly human. After she was done with her inspection, he pulled her close and kissed her. He had put his forehead against hers and told her,

"I love you."

"I love you too," she replied and kissed him again.

They made their way back and noticed how late it had gotten; they could catch the tail end of dinner, hoping there was still hot food but would eat whatever was left.

He was grateful to Jay and Evie who had told him they told his teachers and Coach that he had gotten sick.

Mal tried to keep a neutral face, not wanting to worry Carlos but she knew they needed help when they had started to eat. She realized that she was not enough to help him fight his demons. She was certain she was not anyone to help others, growing up on the same Isle with different but similar evil.

Carlos needed more than her to help him, she just wasn't sure what it was or how to get it.

---

Dr. Mulan Li had fought the Huns and won. She had been in the heart of battle and faced off Shan Yu with his hellish black and yellow eyes. It took a lot to scare her.

There was something rather intense about fae eyes, especially if they were on a teen girl who clearly didn't want to be there. Dr. Li wouldn't say she was scared per se, but there was something about Mal's eyes that felt as if the girl was looking into her mind and soul.

It didn't help that while Mal had asked for the appointment, the teen was not cooperative to talking. She had seen her fair share of disgruntled teens in her tenure as a school counselor. She had an abundance of experience with attitude raising a teen boy and a teen girl.

She had wanted the Isle Four to visit her more often, but she couldn't force them to see her if there was no reason to justify it. Every teacher said they were all doing well and behavior wise, they acted perfectly with a few close calls here and there with the fae girl almost losing her temper. Even in those instances, where reports have her eyes glowing a hellish fire green, one of the other Isle teens was able to calm her down enough and walk away from the situation.

All four teens were largely independent and didn't seem to want nor need adult guidance.

A sadness rippled through her when she thought it might be because they were never truly children, having to grow up quickly in order to deal with life on the Isle.

There was at least a bad couple of weeks at the beginning of the month, their grades had slipped and their teachers were concerned. But whatever it was, it was fleeting because they had each done enough extra credit work beforehand to keep their GPA up and by most accounts they had all recuperated.

They even volunteered to do even more extra credit to get back the cushion they had beforehand, Mulan had learned.

The counselor wondered what caused the dip, no teacher could account for it and Lonnie didn't hear any rumors of anything upsetting enough to affect their grades. Dr. Li figured everyone was entitled to have a bad week or two; they were still doing far better than anyone would have thought given that the teens were dropped into a completely different environment.

But given that the fae was in her office, perhaps it was just more than a one off.

"So what exactly is 'therapy' for?" Mal finally spoke after an awkward silence, getting to the point of why she was there.

From her tone and raised eyebrow, Dr. Li could feel the skepticism radiate off the teen; plus her emphasis on the word "therapy" left no room for doubt that she thought it was some made up term.

Ouch

She had people doubt in her profession before, but some undefinable trait about Mal just made her opinion hurt that much more.

"Well, 'therapy' is a very broad term. There are many types of therapy for different kinds of issues, for different kind of people. What I do is help guide students through their class choices and figure out what type of future they want. I'm also here for any everyday stresses they may have and how to deal with those stresses in healthy and productive ways. I can also intercede on their behalf and mediate between them and their parents if there is any tension or disagreement of where their future is going."

"So what if our 'stresses' aren't 'everyday' type of things?"

It had been painfully obvious to Mal that what stressed them out and what stressed Auradonians out were radically different.

"Well, if it's beyond my field, then I can also refer students to specialists."

"And they help how exactly?"

Mal didn't mean to sound disdainful or sarcastic, that was her natural intonation for things she didn't understand and was overall distrustful about. She had first researched in the library about ways to help Carlos. It led to the psychiatry and self-help section, the more she read the more she couldn't undersatnd it. Therapy in general sounded, to her, self-centered and self-absorbent. She didn't understand how talking about themselves and their life helped with anything.

Eventually she figured she needed someone in the field to explain it to her, and that's how she found herself in Dr. Li's office.

"One way is through psychotherapy, also called talk therapy. A student can express their fears or problems in a safe environment and without judgement. We have patient-doctor privilege, so unless you were in immediate danger of hurting yourself or others, then anything said to me is confidential."

Mal didn't believe that for a second but she continued to listen. Dr. Li went on about what therapy could potentially entail and what options there were to students. Her mind started to wander, the more Dr. Li talked, the more she didn't believe her. Nothing like that was ever on the island. Some of the mad scientists talked of mental health. Explained to them what panic attacks were, mentioned anxiety. They never mentioned there was help for any of it.

The fae looked towards the row of books in the shelves along the walls, nothing seemed to belong to a set. All the books were of different size and width, she itched to look closer.

She wondered if maybe she could just read Dr. Li's books instead of having to come to her.

"Mal, you've been quiet. Do you have any other questions? Or any thoughts?"

Mal looked at her with the same intensity as before, wondering if anything the human counselor said was true and could even help.

"It all sounds like medically approved narcissism," she admitted bluntly. "So you're telling me that students come here, literally talk about themselves for an hour, and that somehow helps them? It sounds like it's a major contributor of why so many of them think the world not only cares about every minutia of their day but that the world is there to serve them."

Damn this girl is cynical. Although not surprising, coming from the Isle and its harsh life, I wouldn't be surprised that therapy sounds indulgent.

Dr. Li knew Mal was going to be a hard nut to crack. But the fact the girl came to her, and not the other way around, made her hope that the fae was open to getting help.

"It can certainly seem that way. But that would be something I could, or someone else, help them work through. If a student had come to believe that, it would probably interfere in their life in a negative way. Not many people would allow that kind of behavior to continue with repercussions."

"Have you met the royals that go to this school?"

Touché

"That I would think is something beyond just therapy. Now I can't tell you who does or does not come to me, but would you not agree that royals have certain prerogatives innate in the social structure that would lend itself to that kind of behavior and not simply talking to one person who is a sympathetic ear?"

"I guess…" Mal didn't know much about royal life, other than most were stuck up jerks to her and her friends. She could admit that she had seen teachers and other students, not Dr. Li necessarily, who fawned over the royals and that's where the future kings and queens of Auradon got their sense of superiority.

"And it's more than just letting them vent or talk about their feelings. It's about exploring why they may be feeling a certain way. Or trying to figure out why they acted in such a way. It's not only being compassionate and empathetic, it's about finding a better way to deal with things than they have before."

That struck a nerve within Mal. Thinking about all the ways they "dealt" with having to live on the Isle. Those ways were no longer working, and she could sense that Auradon was so fundamentally different, that she didn't want those ways to work anymore. She thought about all the ways she and the others had prepared for winter, even though they were in a school that fed them plenty.

She thought about all the stuff she and Jay had stolen and bartered to get money, in case they had to run off. She knew logically that they took the risk of being expelled simply for stealing. So stealing to prepare for having to leave was in itself would cause expulsion, so it was rather counterproductive.

When they first got there, it was never a question that they'd steal. They just knew it was something they had to do. Stealing was a natural instinct, it was as easy as breathing. That was the only way to survive on the Isle. The strong stole from the weak, and they would get to live another day. That's just how life worked.

The longer they stayed and wanted to stay in Auradon, all those natural instincts didn't feel so natural anymore.

So what were they left with? She wasn't sure. It sounded like talking to Dr. Li was the way to find out, but still part of her didn't trust any adult in Auradon.

Then she thought of Carlos and all the garbage Cruella instilled in him. It's why she even came to Dr. Li in the first place.

"So how do you get people to go to therapy?"

Dr. Li thought that was an interesting turn of events.

So she's not here for herself, that much is clear.

"Unless they are in danger of hurting themselves or others, we don't 'get' people to come to therapy. They have to go themselves."

For a second, Mal thought of a compulsion potion; forcing Carlos to go for his own good. But that impulse was shaken off immediately. She would never use magic against him, or any of the others, in such a way. It would violate the trust they had in each other in such a way that they'd never forgive her and she wouldn't blame them.

"But what if they really need it?" Mal pressed on, thinking Dr. Li would know a way to at least get Carlos into one session. She had an almost impossible time making the appointment, the idea of therapy so foreign to her as she knew it'd be foreign to the rest.

She still wasn't sure if she really believed in it, but she'd do anything for Carlos.

Dr. Li could read between the lines and figured that Mal wanted one of the others to go to a counselor. She figured something had happened, something that caused the bad week and Mal was clearly the leader of the Isle Four.

So Dr. Li would use that to her advantage.

"Perhaps they do, but we can't force them unless we have just cause to…sometimes we get scared to ask for help. It's hard to make yourself vulnerable and admit when life gets overwhelming and that we can't do it all by ourselves. We also get the impression that perhaps we're the only one going through it, and if everyone else is working just fine, then they should be too. They feel as if asking for help is a sign of weakness or that we're lacking something. But maybe if they had someone they trusted and respected to lead by example, then they wouldn't be so afraid.

Mal understood what the doctor was hinting at, and she meant it when she thought she'd do anything for Carlos.

"So tell me more about doctor-patient confidentiality…"

Later in the day, Mal joined the others for dinner. It seemed like another typical night, everyone had caught up on their homework and the one bad grade was just a memory. Each had enough extra credit where the test basically didn't happen. Their next tests were their usual A's, so the teachers had not mentioned it either.

"So I was thinking next week we could make a Target run. With Tourney and homework, I think we have next Wednesday free. Is that ok with you guys?" Evie asked them as she tried to fit in a store trip to get toiletries and other stuff they may want.

"I can't do Wednesday, I have an appointment with Dr. Li after school," Mal said casually as if it were just another school activity.

She remained cool and ate her dinner as the three friends looked quizzically at her, unsure of what she just said.

"Why are you seeing Dr. Li?" Carlos asked gently, wondering why she would see the counselor.

"Well," she started and swallowed, hoping to buy a few seconds to get her courage together. "…I've been having a hard time keeping my temper in check with some of the other assholes here and just need some help to work through that. Plus, I think I could use some help with balancing school and…personal life. We have so much going on. The books in the library said that seeing the school counselor could help with all that. I figured since it's free, might as well."

Mal wasn't sure what they thought as they all remained silent, but it seemed as if they were at least thinking of it too.

"Plus I feel like I just don't get so much of what Auradonians do and why, maybe she can help me figure out why they're all so stupid."

That last part was meant to be sarcastic but the blue witch caught onto the idea.

"Oh, like anthropology," Evie inferred, and Mal didn't correct her. If her friend could make therapy sound normalized and more appealing, then she'd let her. "I think that could be helpful…"

The blue haired witch went on to expound upon the potential advantages of going to counseling, Mal agreed and acted as if it were not a big deal. She needed help, she was getting it, there wasn't anything wrong with it.

Simple.

That night in bed, Mal and Carlos snuggled and waited to fall asleep.

"Is everything alright?" he asked, wanting to make sure everything was OK.

"Yeah," she knew he was referencing the counseling. "I just need some help…being in Auradon. It's so different from the Isle, and I'm having a hard time with a few things…like not punching Audrey in the face."

They both smirked at the joke, but Carlos contemplated his girlfriend seeking help. He couldn't help but be surprised, thinking she had everything under control.

But if she didn't, then she was the type to do something about getting it fixed.

Evie and Jay were also on board, they had already talked about making appointments to see Dr. Li themselves.

If going to counseling is a way to help her…then maybe I could try it too.

He knew that he wasn't handling being in Auradon all that well. He also knew he was going to have bad days like he had been having. He didn't want to be carted off back to the Isle because he couldn't handle being free.

He would never see her as anything other than fierce and strong, and if she could admit she needed help, then maybe it wouldn't be so bad if he needed it too.

Perhaps it was providence that had Mal ask for Dr. Li's help because the next day she had finally lost enough of her temper that she had twisted a boy's wrist to the point of injury for mishandling a book. If she had waited, she would have been forced to see Dr. Li anyway.

---

It was a beautiful summer day and Crown Prince Ben wanted to enjoy the warm weather at the lake. Auradon Prep had an Olympic sized pool, but that was reserved for the swim team; the beach was crowded and sandy. He always preferred the Enchanted Lake. It was more than just magical, it was peaceful and secluded.

He thought it was a perfect place to take Mal for a first date. He had laid a spread of all her favorite foods at the ruins of the temple that had stood there centuries ago, she appreciated that he had taken the time and was observant enough to know what she always reached for during meal times. Of course there was a massive bowl of summer ripe strawberries, and a few new things she could try.

Strawberry donuts were a new love affair he had introduced her to. He loved to watch her try and enjoy new things, how her eyes would widen in glee or how she was unafraid to show joy in food. He found excuses to touch her such as wiping off a smudge of sweet jam that lingered on her lips.

He thought her enchanting when she blushed at the contact and let him linger longer than necessary. He smiled as he licked the jam off his finger, never taking his eyes off her and winking flirtatiously.

"So is this your first date?" he asked, he wasn't sure why but he was invested in the answer.

"Hmmm…We don't really date much on the island. It's more like…gang activity."

Something about her not having a boyfriend on the Isle, sent a sweet thrill through him.

"So what about you? Did you date much before me?"

"Not really, there was Audrey but it was more because I thought that was what I was supposed to do. I mean she was nice…," he paused as Mal gave him an incredulous look. "…to me…and a good girlfriend. But I just never felt with her what I feel with you."

She blushed prettily at his confession, happy that he felt the same way she did. Then a doubtful cast shadowed her face.

"And what will your parents say when you tell them you're dating the daughter of the Mistress of Evil?"

He hated how downcast she seemed, she knew what others said behind her back and he thought about all the unfair things his own father had warned him about when he decreed the Villain Kids would come to Auradon.

He brought her hand to his heart and with his other hand, gently raised her chin so she would meet his eyes.

"Your mother might be the Mistress of Evil and I've got the poster parents for goodness. But we're not automatically like them. We get to choose who we're gonna be. And right now, and ever since I met you, I look into your eyes and I can tell you're not evil. And I feel it here," he pressed her hand harder into his chest, right above his heart.

She smiled sweetly at him, so touched that he could see past her legacy of evil and had such faith in her. She moved forward to kiss him, he felt warm and happy when he was with her.

They broke and just smiled at each other, enjoying the beautiful day and a perfect first date.

"Let's go for a swim," he impulsively suggested.

"Hmm? What? Uh…right now?" she asked, not so confident.

"Yeah, right now," he wasn't sure why but it seemed like the best idea at the moment, despite the fact neither had swimwear.

"I think I'm just gonna stay here."

"No, no, no. Come on," he needled. "Can you not swim?" he asked when it seemed she really didn't want to go into the water.

"No."

"You lived on an island," he pointed out incredulous.

"Yeah, with a barrier around it," she reminded him. He felt a little dumb for not remembering.

"Well, let me teach you. The water isn't that deep and it's such a nice day."

Still, she looked hesitant as the water was always a forbidden area.

"I promise I won't let you come to harm."

He gave her wide puppy eyes and a charming smile that she couldn't resist.

"Fine, but if I drown I will haunt you and this lake forever."

He laughed at the thought of ghost Mal scarring off students from the lake, part of him rather liked the idea of having her around forever even if it were as a ghost. But as she started to take off her dress so she was down to her bra and panties, he very much preferred her alive.

He followed suit and undressed, ready to get into the water.

"Are those little crowns on your shorts?" she was amused at his choice of underwear.

"Maybe," he replied cheekily. With a wink, "whoo! Ha-ha!" he jumped right into the water. He swam a few feet away. "Come in Mal, the water is perfect."

Still weary of the water, she trusted Ben and took a tentative step into the lake. Once she felt the water was indeed a tepid temperature, she ventured further in. Ben swam towards her, holding onto her as she fully came into the water. He taught her how to tread water and then helped her float onto her back.

The water was rather nice and she felt safe with the Crown Prince. She had mastered floating and treading, and she knew where the shallow parts where is she wanted to take a break and stand.

Still holding onto Ben as they swam through the lake, she stopped at a shallow end where she could stand head above water if she were on her tip toes. He was rather tall, so he stood comfortably and almost towered above her. She looked at him coyly and he let her pull him closer.

There was something about her smile that made his heart thunder inside his chest, he couldn't help but feel that inviting her to Auradon was part of fate.

He knows he had been there before, with a girl with green eyes and lilac hair. That was how the story went, him and a beautiful girl by the lake.

He did not resist when she pulled him in for a kiss, deeper and more intense than any they shared so far. Wearing so little and with such privacy, the kiss felt intimate and carnal. He knew he should stop, it was only their first date and he was raised a gentleman. But he couldn't resist and didn't want to stop. His hands roamed every curve he had desired since he laid eyes on her. He wasn't sure where the rest of their clothes went, but he suddenly found himself nude and achingly hard against her.

"Mal…" he sighed against her lips, giving a cursory resistance, but he knew it would not be heeded.

"It's OK," she assured him as she rubbed against him and wrapped her legs around his waist, the water giving her buoyancy. He had never been with a girl in such a way, he wasn't sure what to do but did what came natural to him.

Staring deep into her jade and gold eyes, almost glowing with her desire for him. He entered her, hot wet and perfect.

"Ben," she sighed into his ear.

Crown Prince Ben woke with a shock, blinking away the last vestiges of sleep. As he got his bearings, he found he was not at the Enchanted Lake on a perfect summer day but in his massive royal suite; it was November and definitely too cold to go swimming.

He also remembered that Mal absolutely had been dating on the island, and continued to date Carlos as he went over each moment of his dream. Most of it had faded away when he fully woke, he could only recall bits and pieces and nothing else.

He lifted his blanket to find that his shorts, the same blue and gold ones from his dream, were cooling and sticky and had soaked through to his sheets. He plopped his arm down and sighed in frustration. He threw the covers off and pulled the soiled linens off his bed and placed them in the laundry hamper. It wasn't the first time such a thing had happened, so the goblins had provided him with extra bedding in case.

"I'm so glad we have goblins and not gossipy humans," he mumbled to himself as he changed out of his dirtied shorts and cleaned himself, he then put on a fresh pair of simple black ones.

He saw from his antique clock that is was only 4:40am and he didn't have to be up for several hours. He went back to bed to try to get more sleep, but tossed and turned, trying to find a comfortable position. However, it was his mind that was abuzz and no position on his bed would be able to alleviate that.

He couldn't keep from thinking of the dream at the Enchanted Lake. It wasn't the first such a dream where he was with Mal and what ended up happening. He also had dreams of her at a gazebo in the castle gardens with all this favorite foods that she lovingly made for him. Then there was one where they were at Cotillion, where she wore a deep purple and black formal dress; one fit for a princess and she wore his signet ring.

He ignored what wearing his ring meant, and refused to think of Audrey whom he had been dating for almost a year and how she did not have that ring.

He tried not to think of what it meant that he had no intention of giving her that ring anytime soon.

He felt guilty for dreaming of a girl that was not his girlfriend, more so because of the nature the dream had taken. He knew that such fantasies were normal. He had "the talk" with his father about his changing body and how nocturnal emissions and the dreams that caused them were just nature's way of telling him he was a man grown.

But he couldn't deny that there was a reoccurring theme to his dreams. That Mal was the star of them as of late, and besides the sex there was one thing they all had in common: they were dating.

He had to remind himself that she was perfectly happy with Carlos and it was just…physical. It couldn't be anything else.

Mal is a beautiful girl, it's normal to…have those kind of dreams. I'm sure this will pass.

That's what he told himself over and over again, he only hoped that he didn't turn beet red when he met with her later that day to brainstorm over more ways to get his program off the ground.

Ben was a perfect gentleman, through and through. When he met with Mal after school, he was certain there was no indication of what kind of dream he had of her the night before.

Bringing strawberry jam donuts was just a curtesy, they worked late hours and sometimes they just needed the snacks.

It had nothing to do with his dream, it was just coincidence that they were in the mix box he ordered.

It helped that Evie was also there and both girls enjoyed the sweets, not just Mal.

He thought perhaps having Evie there would break up some of the more salacious rumors he knew was being said behind his back about him and the fae girl.

The rumors were annoying on so many levels. They were unfair aspersions on not only his character, but Mal's. Neither of them had ever acted in such a way for others to speculate they would cheat on their significant others. Even if Mal weren't dating Carlos, Ben was not the type to be unfaithful and it incensed him that others would think he would be so callous or insensitive.

He could admit there was a physical attraction on his part, but that didn't mean he was some cad that would totally disregard his girlfriend's feelings and disrespect her in such a way. Although Chad was his best friend and had been since they were in diapers, he could admit his friend was a rake and would never want him dating a sister if he had one or any female relative of his. The Charming prince was the exact type of guy the rumors were about and was overall a creep in terms of boyfriends. But Ben wasn't Chad and would never want to be him. It was even more infuriating when Audrey would make those implications. The fae had always kept a respectful distance and, to his disappointment and would vehemently deny if asked, was more or less indifferent to his presence.

Getting to know the Isle teen, he also knew that if the attraction was mutual that he knew she wouldn't be the type to cheat, much less tolerate being "the other woman." Not to be narcissistic, but he thought that both he and Mal were exemplary partners and it wasn't fair for either of them to be painted as these uncaring scoundrels that had no control over their libidos.

He specifically avoided any thought of an instance where if Mal were single and interested that perhaps Audrey would have a legitimate fear of their relationship ending.

But that wasn't the case so he thought it ultimately didn't matter.

He only hoped the rumors wouldn't then morph to include Evie in some scandalous threesome.

Ben was happy to find the blue haired Isle teen was a refreshing addition to their weekly meetings. She brought a softness to Mal's harsh utilitarian mentality.

"I do think that inviting younger children would be a better way to go," Evie agreed with Mal's plan. "Most of our age group had dropped out of school and started work on their parents' farms. I really don't know how well they'd fit in."

That was the lie they both came up with, if any villain child Ben mentioned wasn't in school or if they weren't sure what happened to them, the go to excuse would be "They work on their parents' farm."

It wasn't a total lie; most were pulled out of Dragon Hall because their parents needed help to grow the scant food that did grow on the island or whatever legitimate trade there was to be had on the Isle. They just would lump them all together instead of parsing out the ones who started to learn how to be good henchmen or less savory trades.

"And I think since we have the experience of being here and from the Island, maybe we could act as mentors to any new children?" Evie went on to suggest.

"That's a great idea," Ben enthused honestly, he had struggled to try to be welcoming and have others welcome the Isle Four. But most of his fellow classmates were still scared or indifferent. His own schedule had always been full with his own school activities, homework, or princely duties. Most days he felt that he had abandoned them with no real help, but thankfully they all seem to be acclimating well.

Mal sort of hated the idea, mostly because she had no desire to "mentor" children from the Isle; a good portion of them being brats and her preferred method of dealing with them was to growl at them until they went away.

But she deferred to Evie and Ben to decide on what was suitable for once the children were on Auradonian soil, and just smiled and nodded. She was certain any child she was stuck with, she could fob off onto Evie or Carlos.

"So, is there anyone in mind for who to invite? Unfortunately we are still woefully limited in space. I know Mal suggested someone younger, around ten. And someone from a lesser known villain, maybe nobles that were banished for crimes against the crown rather than world domination. At least if they are noble, they will have some connection to Auradonian culture that way. Maybe even try to get someone who had an artistic talent, as they're seen as 'softer' and can endear themselves to the public," Ben started to rattle off more descriptions as he looked over previous notes.

Evie's eyes widened as he described someone that was near and dear to her heart, she looked to Mal who looked her dead in the eye and basically told her that her description was by design and not just thought up randomly during a meeting.

"Evie was actually a…babysitter," Mal had to think of the Auradonian term, "on the Isle. She actually knows most of the kids best. So I think she should come up with a list of candidates."

Mal left out that the children Evie watched were offspring of whores, the few who were popular enough that the customers didn't mind that they had birthed babes.

"Great, we can put the list in front of the council and we can start working on getting them to Auradon," Ben went on oblivious as to the inner machinations of the fae and how he was being manipulated.

Evie had to control herself, otherwise she might cry in happiness and relief that Mal laid the grown work to get a child she had considered her little sister to Auradon. So many ideas of what to do and what to show her once she was rescued from the Isle flittered through Evie's head, so glad she was part of these meetings.

"I know we don't want to raise taxes," Evie started another idea; she knew the basics of taxation. They had it on the Isle, at least a version of it. Maleficent demanded tribute for her "protection" and that essentially was a public service that the rest of the islanders had to pay. While in Maleficent's case, if she wanted more tribute then there was nothing anyone could do but pay, in Auradon the citizens had the right to complain and would. "But maybe instead of taxes to raise funds, maybe we can do a charity banquet? I've seen them on RBN, charge people for a seat and they get to show off that not only were they invited but their wealth with grand dresses and jewelry."

Ben started to write down the idea, wishing he had thought of it earlier. His mother threw all kinds of charity balls and banquets for libraries. He knew Audrey's family threw them for hospitals. He was certain people would want another excuse to give their money away to a good cause.

"Make sure Charming and Li go, that should be enough celebrity and royals to have those noble lemmings come running," Mal said snidely, cynical that anyone did anything for charity.

It was all a big show to rub it in everyone's faces that not only where they wealthy enough to afford sumptuous dresses and jewels, but had even more to give away.

It all made her rather ill that while Auradon threw "charity events" so they could congratulate each other for being such good people, children literally starved across the bay.

"Mal, don't be grumpy. You're going and you're wearing one of those grand poofy dresses and you'll like it," Evie chided her friend.

Mal threw a face and slumped over in defeat, not looking forward to having to dress up like a doll.

Ben couldn't help but chuckle, it was so amazing to see the supposed fearsome fae girl reduced to pouting. He saw them as two normal best friends, bickering.

He wished others could see this side of them.

Mal felt like a hostage when Evie and the Crown Prince would not shut up about what kind of charity they wanted to throw. She couldn't believe all that went into it; choosing a theme, a dress code, a venue, a caterer, seating charts…the list went on and on.

And it wasn't even the real event yet! They were just shooting back ideas because this was their warped sense of fun.

"Wow, Evie. It's so great to have some new fresh ideas come to these meetings," Ben complimented her. It was so nice to see her smile in thanks, whereas Mal normally rolled her eyes at any compliment and brushed him off. "There was one idea that I flew by Mal, but maybe you would like it…"

"No," Mal interrupted him, not letting him finish as it was an idea that he brought up at every meeting.

"I'm just saying that doing an interview would endear you guys to Auradon. If people really got to know you and see that you're normal teenagers, and not these fearsome villains in training…"

"That's not going to happen. They have the documentary, that's more than enough to show what it was like."

Ben grew frustrated at her stubbornness, why couldn't she see that it was a good idea? Why should only small children from the Isle be given the benefit of the doubt? He wanted others to see the good in them that he saw, but that would be impossible if they all kept hidden away from the world at Auradon Prep.

He tried to turn to Evie for help, thinking the easier going girl could convince her friend.

But it wasn't the same situation where Evie would just tell Mal to relax or stop being cynical with a mischievous twinkle in her eyes. Mal's demeanor had turned hard and from Evie's tense shoulders, she was not about to chide or go against her friend on this one.

"I don't think it's a good idea Ben…we…we're not exactly doe eyed children that could change their minds…they've made up their minds a long time ago, I don't see a point," Evie said quietly, suddenly becoming insecure and uncertain.

Ben sighed, knowing he was defeated again but he wouldn't give up. People would see past their parentage and he'd figure out a way to convince them.

They wrapped up the meeting, Ben going towards his suite and Evie and Mal walking towards their room.

"I know you'd probably love to do an interview, but we can't risk them asking questions about our life on the Isle," Mal wanted to explain to Evie why she shut down the idea. "We're taking a risk as it is to bring others over. If Auradon finds out…"

Evie ended Mal's train of thought when she pulled her friend into a tight hug. The fae was surprised but returned the embrace.

"I know you put the idea of children into Ben's head to help Dizzy," Evie said into her ear. "I won't ever be able to thank you enough for that."

"I know she's your sister," Mal said back, thinking it was no big deal. Dizzy Tremaine wasn't Evie's blood sister, but she was aware of the special bond between the two and Cinderella's step-niece was one of the few Isle children she could tolerate. While Dizzy was too young to bring to the warehouse, Evie would regale the young girl with descriptions of the amazing dresses and the grand events she saw on television. The little girl had a knack for creating beautiful accessories from the metal scraps Carlos gave to her and other items Jay stole and wouldn't sell. Evie and Dizzy would spend hours playing dress up and fantasizing about the life of a princess in Auradon.

Mal was certain their room would be even more cluttered with fabrics and other haberdasheries than it always was once Dizzy came to Auradon. She could see her future filled with having to give an opinion on color schemes and wearing prototype accessories.

If Mal didn't practically live with Carlos, she might be irritated.

"And I know that you have our safety in mind…an interview could be dangerous. And I'll make sure to choose children of loyal henchmen…children that knows it's better to keep quiet and appreciate their chances rather than tell what we had to do on the Isle to survive."

Mal then squeezed her tight, glad she understood.

"Just don't stick me with Calvin Frollo if this mentoring idea becomes an actual thing…I hate that kid."

Evie let out some nervous laughter, recalling all the times the child in question would pester Mal and the fae refraining from doing anything other than growl or hiss at him since there were a few lines even the daughter of Maleficent would not cross.

"I promise."

The two broke apart and headed back to their dorms.

---

King Adam nursed a tumbler of scotch, the finest Ghàidhealtachd had to offer. A gift from King Fergus and Queen Elinor during the last Highland Games that he only indulged in when he was particularly stressed.

He waited in his private study, the one most didn't know about as he only ever entertained those he did not want anyone, even his Queen, to see.

The study was more for show, it was one room among dozens in the palace.

Despite its seldom use and even redundancy, it still had every luxury his station demanded. The carpets were imported from Agrabah, the bookshelves lined with first editions; the leather binding well-oiled and pristine, the gold leaf shown as bright as it had when first laid.

The globe that held his hidden stash of scotch was made from the finest marble Westerly had to offer.

The ornate desk was hewn from rare magical trees in Sherwood Forest.

All the opulence only a handful had seen, even fewer had even physically stepped in. Still, it had its rare use when he made an important appointment.

His special guest had rushed into the office as a nameless servant allowed him in and disappeared just as quickly, the guest wasted no time in showing his discontent,

"Do you want to tell me why I'm getting invitations to Auradon Prep's Winter Recital?" Cecil de Vil all but spat out with no intention for even basic pleasantries.

King Adam of House Bourbon did not appreciate the tone, he was used to deference no matter whom he was receiving. He also looked with disdain on how the other man was dressed: a tacky garish orange sports jacket over a green shirt and purple pants which stood out even more against his dark skin. His black and platinum hair was pulled back in a strict ponytail, showing a deep widow's peak. His gaudy look complete with a goatee, a lone white stripe in the middle of pitch black hair. The King tried not to gag on whatever cheap cologne the man used and surrounded him like a fog.

Everything about him just screamed nouveau riche commoner.

Given the nature of their meeting, he was willing to forgive de Vil's rudeness this once.

"Probably because your nephew attends," Kind Adam replied dryly.

Cecil sneered at the King's condescending tone, not willing to be kowtowed.

"Nephew," he scoffed harshly, the word like poison in his mouth. "He's nothing but my sister's bastard. He should never have been born, much less be allowed to carry the de Vil name. I can't believe that weak sniveling idiot of a husband who took our name, followed her to the Isle just to become a cuckold."

Growing up wealthy meant nothing in Auradon if one didn't hold a title. Cecil had fought his entire life to bring prestige to the de Vil name, hating that a baseborn bastard was parading around in the most exclusive school Auradon had to offer with his family's name and reminding everyone of its common origin.

The rumors that the boy was part fairkind or some other magical Creature made it all the more unbearable.

"You are free to contest his name in court. Although I doubt you'd get anywhere. Common law doesn't differentiate between legitimate and illegitimate issue, does it?"

And that was the dilemma at hand, Carlos was Cruella's rightful heir regardless of the nature of his birth. Only royals enjoyed the prerogative to disinherit natural children.

Cecil also didn't want to risk taking Carlos to court, it may remind too many people that Cruella was once an extremely wealthy woman, an heiress to a lucrative merchant legacy that spanned generations and head of a vast fashion empire, an empire that Cecil currently controlled.

"I wasn't even aware Carlos even knew about you to invite you to the Winter Recital."

"He didn't. This is a formal royal invitation. Your son is dabbling in affairs he has no right to be in."

Adam couldn't argue with that, his son had a talent for meddling into matters he clearly wasn't ready for.

"He has a tender heart. The news stations are all over it, the Good Crown Prince Ben. It's a phase," he tried to placate the de Vil patriarch. Certainly all their hard work would not be torn asunder by a mere boy, there was no use in getting so worked up over nothing.

"This 'phase' could cost us everything," the man was on the verge of hysterics, his arms flailing about with emotions he couldn't keep to himself.

It was only years of practiced diplomacy that restrained Adam from rolling his eyes, he thought Cecil was being over dramatic.

"de Vil, it's just the two of us here. There's no need for the theatrics. Have a drink," the King told him dismissively, clearly over dealing with his hysteria.

"Need I remind you whose campaign contributions funded your war against the fae? That it was de Vil money that made you king of all eighteen kingdoms," the CEO of House de Vil growled, losing patience with the king's cavalier attitude and almost stomped his foot in petulance.

"It's just an invitation, you are more than free to ignore it. I'm sure my son was merely extending it as a formality as Carlos' few living family in Auradon."

"Your soft hearted brat and his decree!" Cecil yelled, pacing about the room. "I'm already fielding petitions from nosey family members who want to meet the little half-breed. Luckily I've convinced them that he wants nothing to do with us, hates us for leaving him on the Isle. I barely convinced them I had no idea Cruella even had a child. He was supposed to die in infancy, if the Isle didn't kill them surely my evil harpy of a sister would have ignored him to death. My idiot cousin P.H. will not let the issue go. Malevola at least feels guilty enough to believe he wants nothing to do with them. Ivy was too young, she's living the high life in Westerly and could not care less. I will not have decades of hard work and everything I've built destroyed because your son decides he wants to play Patron Saint of Isle Trash."

The mention of his son being derided had King Adam growling and he slammed down his tumbler on the massive desk, the sound of glass almost breaking and splashing liquor on such expensive furniture, making the CEO jump.

"You will remember whose house you're in, Mr. de Vil," Adam stressed to remind Cecil he was nothing more than a commoner with no title and no one to use such familiarity. "You will not speak of my son in such a way or in such a tone. He is still your Crown Prince and will be your future King."

"Of course Your Majesty, but need I remind you that without my help, you would not be King and your son no Crown Prince of all 18 Kingdoms? And who continues to support your kingship and any anti-fae or anti-magic law you wished passed? It's not cheap nor is it easy to keep lesser royals and nobles from appealing to fae favor and help their families via magic. Or to distract them from how expensive it is to hire actual workers rather than rely on magic? I'm sure if the de Vil well ran dry, well you'd find much more magic in your kingdom than any formally cursed royal would wish to have," Cecil spat back, not going to allow even a king to speak to him in such a way.

Cecil had gone too far, mentioning magic and how many lesser kings and queens would welcome the unregulated use of magic to prop up their rules, perhaps to gain their independence? Adam would not live in a land where fae or enchantresses could freely wield their magic to curse humans as they saw fit or on their whims.

There would be no Beast again.

"Need I remind you who helped you gain control of said money you keep bringing up?" King Adam growled inhumanely, eyes turning golden with his barely concealed anger; two could play at the game Cecil wished to play.

"Hmm? Who banished Cruella to an Isle made for villains for the mere crime of conspiracy and reckless driving? Cruella never actually stole those animals. It was only with the recommendation of a doctor ̶ that I hired ̶ diagnose her with bi polar depression and schizophrenia. I'm sure if we were to revisit her condition, with new advancements in medicine and therapy, perhaps she would deserve a second chance in Auradon and could manage her disease. I'm sure His Royal Highness would be all too pleased to give her that second chance and maybe even pardon her, as I'm sure any barrister today would consider it far too harsh a punishment for the crimes actually committed. I'm sure I can scrounge up the humility to admit I was wrong for such a low level villain. Also, without my help you'd still be a bumbling sycophant on Cruella's board of trustees and begging for scraps. Let's also not forget who put you forward as executor of her trust, a position that could have gone to any one of your many insipid relatives. Malevola, Coup, P.H., even Ivy who is now of age; all who were closer to her and have stocks in House de Vil. Trustee is not some for life position. You are easily replaced."

Cecil refrained from retorting, seeing as how he clearly pushed too far and King Adam's threat all too real.

"And lets talk about 'your' money. How much of it was gained from Cruella's massive trust? How many businesses did you start? How many estates and how much property have you bought? All supposedly on behalf of the beneficiary, Cruella? And if Carlos was so inclined to research his family tree, how much of that wealth is rightfully his? As successor trustee, you only get a stipend to manage her trust. Whatever money or investments are made from your management, that's still hers is it not? I can't quite remember, perhaps I need a barrister to remind me."

The two men stared at each, knowing each of their fate was entwined together and it was in everyone's best interest that they remain allies. While Adam could make threats, it would be an absolute disaster if anyone found out his hand in Cruella's fate, and he knew the slimly weasel in front of him would sing like a canary if caught.

Adam's entire reign would be put into question. He could not only lose all eighteen kingdoms, he had doubts he could manage to hold onto his own by birthright. He knew that the Charmings were always itching to expand and never quite on board with Unification. They were certainly too pro-fae for his liking. Nadine FéeMarraine installed as headmistress to a school he founded was proof of the Charming's influence. The Dornröschens were opportunists; although he helped them keep their ancestral seat, they would not hesitate to take back their full crown.

He didn't even want to think of what his Queen and son would think of the lengths he went to secure the crowns on their heads; how far he was willing to go to protect them from the vindictiveness of an Enchantress or errant fae that felt they had the right to curse those who had wronged them, real or imagined.

No one really thought too hard on the de Vil money. All the public and shareholders knew was that it was a successful business. They were all too happy to forget who started it all, the woman banished and left to languish on an island full of criminals. The money kept rolling in regardless.

No one asked about Carlos' inheritance, and the boy certainly hadn't; it was best for everyone if no one ever did.

It would be better for everyone if Carlos remained in the dark and simply was grateful to be in Auradon, which is exactly what both men thought should be the case.

"Listen," Adam tried to reason with the other man after he calmed down. "It would help neither of us if Carlos got curios about his mother's money. He didn't send you an invite, and I doubt Ben had told him he invited you since you will clearly give some convenient excuse to not attend to spare the brat's feelings. It's been decades since the Dalmatian incident, barely anyone even really remembers Cruella. They certainly don't know about her trust or the inner workings of a vast corporation. And even if Carlos did manage to find you and figure out the trust, I doubt the board would approve a minor to take over. The shareholders certainly wouldn't want a teenager in charge, even if he had been raised properly in Auradon. They especially wouldn't want some mangy Isle bastard. And still, even if he pressed for his rightful inheritance, any suit would be tied up in court for years. He doesn't have the money to hire an attorney to even think of going against House de Vil and their army of lawyers. You'd also have the full support of House Bourbon as well. P.H. will soon give up, I'll throw a grant or two his way for whatever silly invention he's working on. I'll have Hershey develop some new candy or whatever. He'll forget all about the illegitimate spawn of his cousin soon enough."

Cecil relaxed, while he thought Adam pompous, it was still better to have royal favor than it was to not.

"Then I think we understand each other your Majesty. I will see myself out."

King Adam waved him off, acting as if the whole meeting was a waste of his time and everything was still the status quo.

Cecil huffed, still angry and rattled and walked himself out of the palace.

He didn't believe on trusting anyone besides himself. King Adam may think the little bastard would simply never question his inheritance, Cecil was determined that he would never get the chance.

As he started to pull out of the drive way, he got on his phone,

"Alexa, get me the head coach of Sherwood Forest High School Preparatory College."

---

Cliff hanger! Dunn, dunnn dunnnn. Plot twist too! I want people to talk about this sooo badly, I'm nerding out over my own writing and I'm not afraid to say it!

Second half I really hope will be no more than a week away, but aiming for weekend. Wish me luck! lol