Ben's POV

Ben was not having a very good day. At first it was amazing he proposed to Mal and she said yes. And then they got to bring more VK's to Auradon which was exhilarating and wonderful. He got to bring the dream that he always wanted alive and he hoped he could continue this tradition and dream. But that's where everything went downhill after closing the barrier Hades tried to escape but no that wasn't the worst of it he used his ember to blast at his friends and fiance. And then he started to drain her power. He couldn't help but feel worried he wasn't sure what they should do about Hades yet or the barrier but he knew he needed to stay calm and composed his kingdom was hysterical if they knew or saw that he was worried they would too. He needs to be strong, showing emotion doesn't mean that isn't strong but at the moment he needs to be careful for the sake of his people. But he also couldn't help but feel worried about what Mal wanted to tell him.

Ben fidgeted with his ring waiting for Mal to arrive. He knew that there were going to be some difficult decisions ahead but he knew one thing: he wasn't going to close the barrier forever. Ben knows his parents and the people of Auradon, he knows his parents will suggest that they close it so that he gives up on his dream. But he can't do that. It's not about the dream but wanting to help those kids. It's not that he doesn't want to protect Auradon, it's that there has to be another way than forever closing them away. He hopes that Mal will agree with him. He doesn't want to close the barrier unless they have no choice if there's no other choice, no hope, no nothing. He wants to fight for the VK's just like how he fought for Carlos, Jay, Evie, and Mal. Ben couldn't help but pace around the room waiting for Mal to come in. She was currently talking to Evie out in the hall about something. He was so deep in thought he hadn't realized Mal snuck back in.

His nerves vanished when he heard her voice. "Someone's nervous." Mal jokes with a mischievous smile. Oh he loved her smile. It was cheeky but adorable at the same time he couldn't help but a lovesick smile form on his lips when he looked at her.

"Hi, sorry I guess I'm just nervous."

"About what?"

"Everything." She sighed in relief, "I think we all are." She moved closer and wrapped her arms around his waist. "...I think it will be okay but it won't be easy." Ben snorted, "It never can be simple eh?" "No, sadly not." Ben caressed Mal's cheek, "What is it you wanted to tell me?" Her expression was crestfallen, she looked down with fear evident on her face. Ben tilted her chin up to meet his gaze. "I'm not gonna be mad if that's what you're worried about." Mal took a deep breath and said, "...It's about Hades."

"What about him?" He asked softly as he led Mal to the couch.

"He's my…" Her voice trembled and she continued to say, "Dad."

Ben's mind went blank. Hades was Mal's father? He couldn't believe it. He blinked several times as he asked, "W-What do you mean?" Confusion cut across his face as he looked at Mal.

She took a deep breath, "He's my dad."

"Hades is your father?" Ben asked.

"Yes." She confirmed.

"And he tried to take your powers."

"Well…" She paused but then her expression conveyed defeat, "Yes he did."

"Why would he do that to his own daughter?"

"Most likely because he wanted to escape he was desperate and I'm not entirely sure he knew the ember could do that."

"Are you sure about that?"

"No I'm not." She shook her head in defeat. Ben took her hands into his, "We will figure this out, okay?" Mal nodded. Her emerald eyes are downcast but then she met Ben's gaze, "I'm sorry I didn't tell you sooner…it's just I don't like talking to really anyone about this. Not even Carlos or Jay knows about Hades, just Evie. I-I guess it's because he left me and mom when I was so young?"

Ben cupped her cheeks, "Mal, it's okay I understand. I do wish you had told me sooner but I am glad you told me now." Mal looked relieved and smiled warmly at Ben, "Thank You for understanding." "Always." Ben leaned his forehead against hers and they both laughed lovingly. Everything was alright for the time being. And Ben was okay with that as long as he had Mal by his side.

…

Mal's POV

Ben hugged Mal tightly and it comforted her after the chaotic events of the day. They stayed like this for a few minutes basking in the peace, serenity, and quiet while they still could. Mal had a feeling something was coming and it wasn't going to be good. She may not always be the most affectionate or touchy feely but she can make an exception for Ben . He always brought out the best in her, he brought out all the good. Ben of course would deny this, he would say it's all her, it was already there she just needed a push in the right direction. He really does make her want to be good, to do the right thing. He's taught her a lot including being true to herself, to listen to her heart, and to be selfless and caring. But he wasn't the only one who taught her important lessons; she'd like to think she taught him a thing or two as well. She wished that they could stay like this forever but sadly they were needed. There was a knock at the door and Mal pulled away, Ben moved to the door and opened it. He was greeted by his parents and Fairy Godmother.

"Hello Son, can we come in?"

"Of course." Ben said, with a tight smile.

"Hi, Mal." Belle greeted warmly. "Hello Belle, Adam, Fairy Godmother, what can we do for you?" Mal asked.

They exchanged a look, "We need to talk about what happened today." Ben pursed his lips and his eyes dimmed, "I thought so, shall we?" He extended his hand motioning for them to come in. Mal knew that Ben wanted to solve the problem occurring with Hades and the barrier but he was facing a dilemma of some sorts. She wasn't sure what he was thinking of or more specifically what he was worried about. Of course it's logical to think we were worried about the barrier, Hades, the VK's, and the safety of Auradon. But she had this nagging feeling there was something else.

"I think we all know why we're here. The people are in a panic about Hades. He almost got out." Beast said.

"Who knows what he would've done if he had escaped?" Said fairy Godmother.

Beast spoke up, "We can't risk having another villain on the loose."

"Then what do you suggest we do?" Ben asked.

"That we close the barrier for good." Beast suggested.

"You want to do what?" Ben asked, exasperated.

"But what about all the children?" Mal argued.

"Mal sweetie, we have to think about what's best for Auradon." Belle explained.

"B-but we can't forget about them!" Mal was horrified she couldn't believe they would suggest this. Mal looked over at Ben with a surprised expression, her eyes widened and she was tense.

"Mal's right! I understand that the villains are a threat but there has to be another way and we can't forget about these children."

"Ben." Belle warned.

"Mom, Dad, I understand where you're coming from but those children are just as important as any citizen of Auradon." Ben motioned towards the isle. "If we give up on them what does that show everyone else? What does it represent?"

"Ben enough! This silly dream will end today!" Beats roared.

Ben looked hurt, "I knew you would do this, I knew you were going to pull this." Ben crossed his arms facing away from his parents.

Mal was right. There indeed had been something else.

"What do you mean?" Beast asked.

"I knew you all would suggest that we close the barrier forever! You don't care about them, you only want to lock them away and throw out the key."

That was what he's been worried about on top of everything else. He knew that'd want to close the barrier for good.

"You know that is not true!" His father argued.

"But you did the moment you created the barrier you did exactly that!"

His father glowered at him and his voice was dangerously quiet, "I did no such thing! You will end this."

Ben stared at his father, his jaw was clenched and his eyes were darker than usual, "It's not about a silly little dream, it's about caring for those who could care less about them. As I said before they are as much an Auradian as anyone else. They did not deserve the fate they received due to their parents actions."

"Alright I think that's enough." Mal stepped between father and son. "We understand where you're coming from but I believe we all need some time to cool down and regroup." Beast stared Ben down with a dangerous glint in his eyes but then he met Mal's eye and he saw defiance blazing in her emerald eyes. Mal's jaw clenched when beast wouldn't back down but Fairy Godmother's voice rang loud and clear, "I believe Mal is right."

"Agreed I think you are right Mal, It seems we need a little break. Thank you both for your time." Belle said politely, pulling Adam away. And with that they left an unsettling feeling formed in their hearts. Ben ran his hand through his head and let out a sigh. Mal nibbled at her lip. What could they propose other than closing the barrier? What do they do about her father? She wondered.

Ben looked like he was going to say something but as he did the door opened. "Hello, sir?"

"Um hello, is there something I can help you with?"

"We received reports that Maleficent scepter and the queen's crown have been stolen."

And in that moment Mal swore she heard a pen drop.

To Be Continued…