Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The first person to text her was Evie. So of course it didn’t set off immediate alarm bells. The pack of them had been seeing one another every day since the day they graduated, so it was nice to get updates like this instead of running out of things to talk about. And sure, the original plan after the wedding was to grab their friends and go see the world and make alliances for Mal’s sparkling new kingdom she now held reign over. No biggie.

With that pressure rising in her chest, it was one of the major reasons that her and Ben requested they pause their adventures to other lands so they were allowed to have their honeymoon or sorts. Nothing outlandish, or really planned. Just some very needed alone time, as a couple, especially now that they were legally official. Seeing as they barely ever got a moment together at school. So now that they were married and officially king and queen, Mal figured she was at least allowed to ask for at minimum three days, two weeks max to not only prepare for queendom but married life.

In the meantime, she asked for updates from her friends, about the goings on, seeing as it did make them both nervous to leave their kingdom without them. Yet as soon as fairy godmother heard of their idea, she nearly packed for them and assured that Ben’s parents would manage just fine while they had their time together.

With all of that combined it was probably why she hadn’t put too much weight into Evie’s text. Or Jays the week following. However, four days in, she’d gotten a text from Jordan that made her turn to Ben and plead for him to return to the kingdom.

They had passed on the Honeymoon Cottage like Beast had suggested and after a small request from her new mother-in-law, the two decided to stay at Belle’s cottage to get away from everyone. It was something quaint, provincial, and most importantly, quiet. Just what they needed. However, that quiet became a loud ringing as Mal looked over her phone briefly after enjoying a lunch and small make-out session with her husband.

Mal stared at the phone in between fidgeting at her charm bracelet, the small charms jingly and alarming her ever-astute partner to her rising anxiety. Through the whole ride back, he assured her that Jane would be alright. That it wasn’t as bad as it sounded. But Mal couldn’t stop playing the texts on repeat in her mind.

Evie: Everything and everyone is fine here without their king and queen. Relax. Enjoy yourselves! Oh ps, Jane brought Dude over for me to dog sit. I don’t actually sit on him right?

Jay: Hey, I’m bored. Evie and Doug went camping for the weekend and took Dude with them. Jane stopped by the place asking if I had any of C’s things left around. Didn’t think you or Evie would mind that I gave her his jacket and it seemed to make her feel better. Hope you and B are having fun making out or whatever.

Jordan: Jane visited. You might want to stop by.

“Okay, give me this,” Ben said softly as he slipped her lilac phone from her hands. “And these,” He gave that grin she couldn’t fight against as he tucked the phone away and slipped her hands into his.

“Hey, are you sure you’re not really a villain?” She gave a soft click of her tongue. “The power you have to make people do as you wish, and only with a smile,” Mal said dryly as she rolled her eyes at him fondly. “A lethal weapon if you ask me.”

Ben squeezed her hands back as he chuckled along with his wife. “Hm, it managed to get you to not only date me but marry me, so I think it’s really only worked on one person. Not enough broken hearts to make a villain streak there.”

“Mm,” Mal made a small sound before she sighed out heavily.

“It’s going to be alright.” Ben nodded in response. “It always is. Nothing we can’t…overcome.”

“But, that’s just it, I don’t - I mean, I-“ And that’s when she felt her lip start to quiver as she gripped Ben’s hands tighter. Drawing a breath in she felt a shiver run up her spine as her body tingled with the familiar sensation of losing control.

“Mal…” Ben said softly, a single hand slipping away from hers to lovingly stroke at her cheek.

She could see the soft green glow reflect over his skin. With a breath in she tried to control it. Tame the transformation. Push the emotions down. After swallowing back the lump in her throat, she felt her eyes meet Ben’s muddied green ones. “Thanks,” She nodded.

“We can save that for later,” Ben said softly as he continued to stroke her cheek. “Let dragon out before bed.” He then chuckled softly as he shifted in his seat. “Er, um, not to imply-“

“It’s okay Ben,” Mal gave a weak smile, knowing he was navigating this just like she was. Except it was ten times heavier for her.

Carlos had been gone for about a year now. He’d passed just after graduation and it took everything in Mal not to move their wedding - despite it being months after. Since then, she’d discovered that the first moment she let herself loose it about the loss of her friend, she’d transformed into her dragon shape. Who knew? So now every time her throat closed about it, she had to breathe and make sure she didn’t get too worked up. But now she was worried and rehashing emotions that she’d barely had time to settle with herself. Poor Jane.

Mal’s only ever had a glimpse of what Jane might be going through. Nearly losing Ben twice, all that she’d come to love in Auradon.

Sure Jane knew him as long as Ben had, maybe a little less. But it was supposed to be her true love. That was what she’d been sold her whole life. Her mother was the ring leader in that grand design. Getting the Princess to her Prince Charming. Jane lost her Prince. They all lost him. And that loss felt deep and vast.

What was all their magic good for if they couldn’t even save their friend? Someone they loved dearly, in his sleep of all places.

If Mal closed her eyes tight enough, she was pretty sure she could still hear Jane’s sobs. Being the kid of the isle had prepared her for a lot of things. But never for the sound that came from Jane that day. Or when the royal guards came to take away Carlos’s body, start preparing for the services. All expenses covered by the crown, of course.

After a soft jolt, Mal blinked awake as the car they had been journeying in had come to a stop. She heard Ben stir next to her and noticed that they’d both drifted off to sleep on their lengthy journey back to Auradon City. Not the castle but to Evie’s. It had become their usual spot. As Mal heard Ben shut the car door, footsteps soon followed and as she turned over her shoulder she was embraced by Evie and Jay. The brief homecoming of her closest friends helped relieve some of the tension in her shoulders as she embraced them back.

“Guys,” Mal said almost muffled by her mouth being covered by both of their shoulders.

“We really didn’t want to make you come back,”

“No, we didn’t want to interrupt the two of you having your time together.”

The two rushed out, overlapping one another and she nearly missed what both were saying.

“Whoa, stop, no, it’s fine guys, really.” Mal shuffled back from where her friends crowded her. “I’d be even more worried if you hadn’t said anything and I found out after coming back.” She sighed as she patted Jay’s arm and gave them both gentle and caring looks.

“And if that’s not enough, as your king, I say you’re not allowed to feel guilty about calling us both back.” Ben stepped forward to Mal’s side and smiled at the two. “Even if you just needed Mal.”

“No, no we know better than to think you two aren’t a package deal,” Evie assured with a small wink.

“That’s like, the definition of marriage,” Jay added with a pleased grin.

“Well, come on in you two, we’ve got a bed made up for you, it’s far too late to go barging in on Jordan’s lamp.”

“R, right,” Mal said a little disappointed to not be getting right to the point. “Uh, do we know, I mean, is Jane-“

“She’s not at Jordan’s.” Evie sighed as she pushed open the door to let them in. “She uh, according to Jordan she told her she had plans to see Dizzy at her dorm for a hair makeover, to make her feel better. But…” Evie bit down on her lower lip. “Dizzy’s been here all day, semester break and all.”

Mal nodded slowly as she took in the information as they entered Evie’s place, seeing the few changes she’d made. As they entered the living room, she spotted Doug sitting on the couch.

“Oh good, you guys made it.” He stood from the couch and gave them both a small nod, like they were in court. “The bedroom we made up for you guys and Jay is just this way… I imagine you guys are beat.”

Mal rocked on her heels indecisively as she watched where Doug had pointed. “Um, actually…” She started and then turned to Jay and Evie with a knowing grin. “I don’t think I could sleep a wink if I was in our own room. Do you think…I mean it wouldn’t be totally lame if we just…” She gestured to the living room floor. “Made a setup like we had at our old hideout spot?”

After many laughs and nods, the group managed to set up a decently soft and cushioned pile to sleep together on in the middle of the living room. When Mal woke up later the next day, she had to take a moment to recall that they in fact were not back on the isle like when they were kids, but safe in Evie’s castle. She felt Ben’s arm around her and she sighed softly out, happy to see him restful and at peace.

“Morning.”

Evie smiled from where she stood in the open kitchen holding a mug of what she could smell from where she rested was coffee.

Mal gave her best smile back and then softly yawned as she nodded, knowing Evie to always be so chipper in the early hours. “Morning.”

“Why don’t you get Ben up and I’ll make you guys breakfast.” Evie encouraged as she set her mug to the side and walked towards the fridge.

“Nothing too big,” Mal warned as she turned where she laid to look at her husband better. “I don’t know if I have a big appetite right now.” Then she started to rub Ben’s arm, coaxing him awake by calling his name softly.

Not long after, all of them had awoken and let themselves eat as much as they could manage. Mal could swear she was able to feel all of their anxieties hanging heavy in the air. Soon, they were on their way over to Jordan’s place. And Mal had to nearly break Ben’s wrist with how tight she was grasping at his hand as they only neared the inevitable. After walking into the apartment that Jordan owned, they then went through the space to reach the room that held her actual space. The lamp.

After a soft tap, the group was soon turning into a light airy smoke and slipping into the lamp, popping up around a table and cushioned seats.

“Hey guys.” Jordan said somberly as she finished pouring tea into the last tea cup waiting for them on the small table. “We should talk.”

“Right, that’s why we came.” Mal nodded, taking her seat on the plush pillows and wondering if she wanted to partake in the tea, worried Jordan had made one of her usual anti-anxiety herbal tea. Mal didn’t want to feel dulled right now. She wanted to feel in charge.

“Of course.” Jordan gave a soft nod and set her teacup down. “So, like my text said, Jane visited.”

“Well Jane visited us too.” Doug spoke up as he shrugged softly, looking between him and Evie and then to them all. “What’s wrong with that? She asked us to look after Dude.”

“She visited Jay too.” Mal added quickly.

“Uh-huh.” Jay nodded. “She asked if I had any of Carlos’s things still around are place, from before they found their apartment and moved in together.” He gave a soft sigh. “So I gave her his leather jacket, you know, the one you-”

“I made him back on the isle, yes, I know.” Evie nodded as she finished Jay’s sentence. “I’m glad she has it, she should…”

“Was it black and white, with red sleeves?” Jordan asked after crossing her arms, looking between them.

“Yes.” Jay spoke up as they all nodded along.

“Hm…” Jordan hummed softly, her eyes almost going distant for a moment and then she focused back on them. “Well, that’s um,” She swallowed. “Would you say that was one of his...favorite possessions?”

“Sure,” Mal said with a soft shrug. “If you don’t count Dude, and besides, he’s had that probably the longest, Evie made it two times too big when she first made it for him, so he didn’t get to wear it for a couple of years.” She then sighed, her shoulders falling as she pouted in the sadness of recollection. “But yeah, he uh, he cherished it.”

“Oh boy.” Jordan’s brows rose up and she shook her head. “Okay, yeah, great.”

“What does that have to do with anything?” Jay asked with a light laugh. “Did she ask you to like, sleeping beauty it or something to dance with him again?”

“I could have done that for her.” Mal gave a small shrug, making the comment offhandedly and then focusing back on Jordan for an answer. “But I would understand why she’d ask the next best in my absence...so, what? Did she just want one last dance or?”

“No, Mal…” Jordan had looked to the floor, her brow deepening as she seemed to struggle with something, different emotions flashing over her face. “She…” The girl shook her head and her bangles jingled with the motion, her eyes meeting Mals as she rushed out. “She asked me to bring Carlos back.”

Chapter Text

Many years before attending Auradon Prep, on the Isle of the Lost

“Oh Carlos!” Evie sang out as she danced into the doorway of their hideout, holding onto the box she’d done her best to dress up to look better.

“What?” Carlos laughed as he jogged into the room, evading the arm Jay swung out from where he lay on the makeshift couch. “Please don’t tell me my mom wants me.”

“Nope.” Evie giggled as she held the box out and waved it towards him. “Just this!” She pushed it toward the boys hands.

Evie caught Jay sitting up from where he laid and heard the sound of Mal’s spray paint cans quiet behind her as they all seemingly put their eyes on Carlos.

The smaller one of the four stood there confused with the box held against his chest.

“What is this?” He asked suspiciously. “If this is another one of those sparkly hair things I’m not wearing it!” Carlos huffed, his white fringe-like bangs flying away from his face with it. “Harry shoved me off the pier last time for it.”

“It’s not a barrette.” Evie sighed out as she crossed her arms and leaned towards him. “It’s a...well, well I don’t really know what to call it, but go on, open it, this one is much better.”

Carlos pulled the box back and eyed it again, hearing the rushed encouragement from Jay and Mal, seeing their interest in his new Evie design.

“Okay…” He said and then started to pull back the tattered wrapping around the box and sighing out, wondering what Evie made this time. As his eyes came across the various colors resting inside the box he gasped softly. “Whoa...Evie…” He grinned, noticing his favorite colors, and quickly pulled the item free. “Is it...oh cool! It’s my own jacket!” Carlos jumped some on his feet as he started to pull the jacket onto his arms. Yet as it settled on him, he felt like something was off.

“Oh no! It’s too big!” Evie put her hands up to cover her mouth with a gasp. “No!”

“It, it’s okay.” Carlos nodded as he adjusted the collar. “I’ll uh, I’ll grow into it.” He beamed.

Evie frowned as she went on. “I knew I shouldn’t have taken this project on this early with my mom teaching me to sew.”

“E, I love it.” Carlos laughed, feeling his fingers not meet the end of the sleeves. “It’s killer.”

“I want one.” Jay hurried as he jumped up and roughed up Carlos by the shoulders. “Maybe I’ll wear this one till it fits, huh?”

“Get off!” Carlos whined as he shoved the other boy.

“Let him keep it.” Mal rolled her eyes as they all settled and calmed down. Then she nudged Evie’s side. “And you’re so making me one after you make Jay one.”

Then the group all fell into a fit of laughter and agreed to go out on a run around town, stealing and causing chaos like they always did. They may have even stopped by the docks and proudly pushed Harry into the water when he tried to swipe Carlos’s new jacket.

Mal

“And that’s not all she...uh…” Jordan’s eyes scanned the faces around her as she continued to explain. “I let her stay the night, and um, she stole one of my books.” Her arms coiled around herself as she seemingly started to blush and grow shy. “It was...one of my dad's books of magic.” She sighed as she pushed a hand through her hair. “I think she knew what she was looking for, seeing as she knew to bring the jacket with her.”

“It’s easier to work death magic with an item close to the deceased.” Mal finished softly, her eyes had gone a bit distant as she settled with the reality of what Jane might be trying to do. “The closer…”

“The item, the more likely the resurrection will work.” Jordan finished with a slow nod.

The group rightfully so grew very quiet.

After a moment, Mal made the first bit of sound as she crawled towards the table and waved her hand over it to produce a map. “Does anybody have any idea where Jane could be?” She asked as she used her index finger as a marker and crossed off the few places they’d been, to mark where they knew Jane wasn’t.

“Are we sure she’s not on campus?” Jay asked. “If she said she was going to see Dizzy, maybe it held some truth?”

“She does like the museum.” Doug offered up, searching the other's faces.

Jordan shrugged as she said. “I called Freddie and Celia, they’re taking summer classes and neither of them has seen her.”

Mal dug her teeth into her lower lip, chewing at it to think over just where their friend could be. This could be that hard, right? It was Jane after all.

The room was quiet as they all tried to come up with something, contemplate.

“Does…” Ben started as he gave a small shrug. “Do you guys know about Fairy godmothers cottage?”

“Cottage?” Jay asked.

“Uh, yeah,” Ben nodded his head and gave Mal’s shoulder a soft rub as he shrugged. “It’s nothing big, just a little place that Fairygod Mother got to stay near Cinderella, keep an eye on her and to then she started working here and just found it easier to take up with lodging on campus.” Then he cleared his throat. “Anyways, we used to go up in the summers to swim in the lake nearby. She could be hiding out there?”

“Let’s go.” Mal nodded quickly but saw the faces around her and she frowned. “What? Are you guys serious? We know where she might be and you don’t want to go get her?”

“Well…” Evie started and she leaned over to where Ben had circled the spot that this cottage was supposed to be. “We do.” She nodded slowly and then looked over to Mal. “But we’ve done this before, it could be a distraction or worse…”

“A trap.” Jay finished with a small grunt.

“Good thinking Evie,” Ben said encouragingly as he continued to soothe Mal by rubbing her upper arm. “Why don’t we have some of us check out the cottage and the other half of us can check the campus?”

“Why don’t I take Doug and Jordan to check on the cottage, and Mal, Ben, and Jay you can go check the campus?”

“Yeah, okay, sure.” Mal nodded her head as she did her best to let her friends take the lead here. “Just make sure to let us know as soon as something goes wrong.”

Doug nodded eagerly and “We will.”

Before they made their split, the group agreed to call the other as soon as anything went down. Even if that just meant they called to hear them being in a fight or danger. Just let each side know what happening. If everyone was alright.

If she’d thought about it, she’d have probably opted for going to the cottage, seeing as Jordan used her powers to poof them away. Mal hadn’t considered being cooped up in a car yet again. She did her best not to fidget in the car but it was so hard to not as all she had time to do in the back seat was ruminate over what they might find. What this might mean for them all.

Soon the car pulled them up to the familiar school grounds. Except it was a bit of a shock as Mal stepped out after taking Ben’s hand to see the new statue that adorned the center of the campus. The beautiful white stone was chiseled and chipped at to make the near replica-like depiction of Mal and Ben. King and Queen, right! She’d have to tattoo that to her wrist to keep remembering.

“Oh.” Ben said softly next to her, as she caught him also taking in the statue. “It came in early…” He said a little like he was disappointed.

“Was it…”

“No.” Ben shook his head as he laughed, without even letting her finish. “Not a surprise or a deadline, I just, didn’t expect it to arrive. Nor...show it off to you like this.” He scratched idly at the stubble along his chin. “It was, however, kind of a...wedding gift.”

Mal turned to him and searched his face in awe. “A wedding gift? From who?”

“Our parents, eh, well, my parents...your in-laws.” Ben smiled through his little slip-up.

“Oh.” Mal’s brows rose some and then looked back at the statue. “So I don’t have to worry about Beast being jealous that we took his place?” She grinned up at him with a coy smile.

“No.” Ben laughed softly as he let his arm come to settle on her waist. “Besides, he got a good fourteen years up there, it’s time for some young blood.”

“Ah,” Mal softly giggled. “Young blood. I like it.”

Then there was a soft sound of someone clearing their throat and Jay gave a heavy shrug. “Shall we?”

“We,” Mal started, feeling herself instinctively step away from Ben, and felt him take a step away too.

“Shall.” Ben finished with a smile and nodded to Jay.

Yet, as they started to step away from the ornate fountain and sculpture, Mal’s phone went off in her pocket.

“Oh, wait.” She urged and then lifted the phone up and accepted the call, pressing the speaker button. “E?”

“I’m here, we’re fine.” Evie’s sweet voice came through the line and Mal felt like she could breathe.

“And Doug, and Jordan?” Mal rushed as she looked over the screen of her phone like it’d tell her.

“Fine too.”

Then there was a little shuffling sound as Mal soon heard Jordan and Doug speak up to ensure they were fine.

Mal was already shaking her head as she sighed. “Sorry guys...I...”

“No worries, we managed to get here just fine, we’re all okay, and we haven’t found anything.”

“And you didn’t find anything? Not even a spell book, diary?”

“We’ve looked around, waited even, but there’s nothing here. Just a small, in total need of a makeover-”

Mal could hear Doug clear his throat and Evie went on. “It’s clear and harmless, we’re sure of it Mal.”

“Huh,” Jay mumbled. “I’m more surprised the place actually exists, I always thought she lived in a pumpkin…”

Evie clicked her tongue on the other end. “She transforms them.”

Then, as if she could hear the sound of a key turning in a lock, Mal’s eyes grew and she gasped. “Exactly.” She bounced on her toes and did her best not to drop her phone. “Guys, I think I’ve got it, we have to go-”

“Wait!”

Mal was already stepping away to start her stride as she asked. “What?”

Evie spoke up even though there was some rustling and background sounds again. “Let us get there…”

“No, there's no-”

Yet, before Mal could protest much further, a cloud of pink rose around them and suddenly, Doug, Evie, and Jordan were all standing around them.

“My dad's a genie remember?” The girl laughed and shook her head. “Now what was that idea Mal?”

Mal nodded promptly and turned to her husband and nodded to him too. "Ben, is there a...like a garden here? A private garden maybe?" 

"Uh," Ben started to think and then he nodded his head eagerly. "O, oh yeah." He touched his forehead as he elaborated. "Oh gosh, I almost forgot about it, but my mother and father would take me there a few times when I was little. The door to it is just next to the Dean's office, the garden is on one of the watchtowers." He nodded. 

"Yes." Mal rushed out her enthusiasm and then she touched his arm as she excitedly asked him. "Lead the way?"

Chapter Text

After running up many stairs past the door near the Dean’s office, the group finally made it to a landing space. Near the wall was another shorter set of steps that clearly led to the top of the tower. Mal slowed down with a soft sigh and then looked back at the group over her shoulder.

“I think…” She said softly. “I think I should go...or, or me and Ben…I don’t know,” Chewing softly at the corner of her lip she eyed her friends. “I just feel like if she sees all of us, she’ll run or freak out.”

“I’ll go with.” Ben nodded as he assured her. “I can even stay back a few steps, whatever you need.”

“You make a good point.” Jordan nodded. “I know I’d feel overwhelmed being approached by a group too.”

Evie was nodding quickly as she offered Mal a grin. “We’ll be right here, waiting. Or ready to help if that’s needed.”

Mal gave a soft nod and then she looked at Ben and gave his hand a squeeze. “Could you…”

Ben smoothed his other hand over their joined ones. “Stay?” He asked with that killer smile again. “Of course Mal, do what you have to do.” He nodded and then raised her hand up to kiss the back of it. “We’ll be here, waiting for you.”

Giving a short nod, Mal filled her lungs with a stabling breath and as she ascended the next set of stairs she exhaled, hopeful to expel all her worries. This was Jane after all. She was harmless most of the time. Even when she did act up, you couldn’t blame her most of the time. Though she’d never admit it to anyone, Mal was sometimes a little envious of Jane’s sweet innocence. Nourished from birth to be gentle, kind, and good. Mal was only in her first few years of being and following through on the whole good thing, and even then she’d had her faulty streaks.

As she reached the garden, she had to blink quickly, from the sudden light, having gotten so used to the dimly lit staircase of the tower. Her hand came up to block the light as she did her best to scan the green space around her. It was beautiful. Lush and full of various greenery as well as pops of colors from flowers, some she wasn’t sure she’d ever seen before. Then again, the isle didn’t have much room for such delicate things.

As she walked through the paths of plants she scanned closely for anything. Then suddenly, as she stepped over a rosebush, she spotted tangled green vines spreading out from the far corner. So she followed them and soon her eyes couldn’t miss the unmistakable shade of orange.

“Jane.”

Mal heard herself breathe out before she even knew she was going to say anything. Her hand nearly came up to cover her mouth as if anyone was around to hear her. Trying to be comfortable, she glanced over the ornate vine-covered and orange-tinged cabin that was before her. If she wasn’t positive it was spelled pumpkin turned home, she’d be convinced the logs were real. Yet as she spotted the other pumpkins in the patch at the base of it, she knew Jane stuck with what she knew to make her own little space.

Once Mal reached the door she felt her hand hesitating to reach out and knock. Could you even knock on a pumpkin door? After a bit more hesitancy, Mal reached out and softly knocked at the door. She even spoke up just in case she could be heard.

“Jane?”

As Mal stood and waited, she felt a growing anxiousness that they’d come to a dead end. That was until she heard a soft voice from the other side of the door.

“Go away!”

“Go away?” Mal gave a small scoff as she crossed her arms and looked at the door as if Jane was standing before her. “Jane, please let me in, we need to talk.”

After a moment, the same soft voice came from the door. “I don’t want to see anyone.”

Mal frowned as she heard her friend. “It’s okay Jane. It’s just me, and, if it helps we can keep talking like this. I’ll be here all day if I have to.” She sighed out, letting her arms fall from their crossed position. “I just, think we have somethings to discuss.”

After a few minutes of silence, Mal wondered if Jane had gone from the door, or maybe magicked herself away. Until the door started to move, her brows rose and she spotted her light blue-clad friend before her.

“Oh Jane.” Mal sighed out softly, a kind smile on her lips. “It’s good to see you.”

“You have to say that.”

“I’m VK.” Mal’s brow rose as she spoke dryly. “I could have said anything, and I chose to say that.”

“You do make a fair point.” Jane nodded slowly and she stepped back from the door so that there was more room. “Would you, like to come in?”

“I’d love to.” Mal smiled and then started to slowly step in, in case Jane changed her mind.

After a moment, Mal was walking into the small space and she kept a polite smile on her lips as she studied the space.

“The book isn’t here if that’s what you’re looking for.” Jane shrugged as she stepped away from the small kitchenette and into the living room space that Mal was standing in.

“I wasn’t looking for it.” Mal shrugged as she accepted the cup of tea she was offered. “Just looking at your craftsmanship.” She smiled as she glanced around again. “This is great work, Jane, I can tell you’ve improved a lot.”

“I’ve had a lot of alone time…” Jane said softly before she lifted her teacup to her lips and sipped.

Mal took the moment to also sip from her tea, not that she enjoyed it much, but it was more so to show Jane that she trusted her. Trusted that she not only didn’t charm the tea but that something she’d learned early on in her visit to Auradon, was that tea was just the proper way to invite a guest in.

“How’s my mother?” Jane asked after a moment of them just sipping at their teacups.

Mal finished her sip and then set her cup and saucer to the side as she shrugged. “She’s good. Really excited for me and Ben to learn more about ruling.” She gave a soft laugh. “She’s like our own little couples cheerleader.”

Jane gave a soft laugh. “Yeah, she likes to do that.” With a small shrug, she set her cup down and sighed. “My mother loves love.”

“Right…” Mal nodded slowly as she shifted her weight. “Speaking of love…”

“Please don’t.” Jane shook her head as her eyes fell to the floor. “I don’t want the lecture, or the begging for me to change my mind.”

“That’s the thing.” Mal gave a weak shrug. “I don’t want to change your mind, I don’t want to lecture you.” She felt her lip pout as she felt emotions start to wash over her. “It all makes sense and…” As she spoke she felt a warm tear roll down her cheek. “and I don’t blame you at all. It’s perfectly normal in my eyes.” She sniffled as she brought her hand up to rub at her nose. “I uh, if you can believe it or not, uh, I…” Mal bit into her lower lip as she wondered if she should confess this part, confess it for the first time. “The night after I…” Clearing her throat from the lump forming there she tried to continue. “I asked fairy godmother if I could get my spell book back, for just a brief moment. Uh, I was pretty sure my mother wrote a necromancy spell or dabbled in something like it that I could at least use.” She gave a dry laugh. “Between that and my father's ember…” She shook her head she felt more tears slip from her eyes. “I would have done anything…”

“Yeah…” Jane nodded along. “This is me trying to do anything...for him. I miss him.”

“I do too.” Mal nodded her head quickly. “We all do Jane. Trust us, we grew up with him, we miss him so much, sometimes it’s hard to breathe knowing he’s not coming back.”

“But he could.” Jane nodded her head quickly. “Make sure he’s not forgotten, not missed, we could do it. Me and you, we’re powerful enough. We could make it happen Mal.”

Mal was already shaking her head despite more tears slipping down her face. “But should we?” She sniffed back more tears. “Should we really mess with the balance of life and death?” She shook her head. “My father should be an example of that not going well…” She frowned. “He won’t even see me because he knows what I want to ask him.”

Jane sat back and frowned. “Then how else is anyone else going to know him? Remember him?” It was now Jane’s turn to start to cry, soft tears slipping down her face and into her lap. “He can’t just...be gone, I can’t handle that Mal.”

Mal was nodding her head along, understanding Jane’s pain. “We can…” She sniffled, reaching out for Jane’s hand and patting it. “We can do so much.” Giving her hands a soft squeeze she sighed out. “I was even thinking...when we got back, we could name one of the dorms after him.” She nodded her head as she started to spill her ideas, having kept them in on the off chance she was the only one who agreed. “Start a program where we shelter animals from the isle and give them really good homes.” She gave a soft laugh. “Maybe make a statue...name a national day after him.”

Jane gave a soft sad laugh as she nodded her head. “That sounds nice.”

“Yeah?” Mal gave a growing smile back as she wiped at her face, trying to shed the tears.

“It’s...certainly a start.” Jane nodded again and then pulled her hands back into her lap. “I’m going to keep the book, his jacket…” She shrugged as she sighed. “Keep up my search…but, you’re welcome to do all of that, and I’ll...see how I feel about it.”

“Oh...kay.” Mal said slowly, nodding her head along with it, trying to figure out what the best way to walk away from this was. “We can, we can work with that.”

“Thank you,” Jane said softly. “Thanks for trying, for...coming here. I really didn’t think anyone would even notice.”

“We do notice Jane.” Mal gave a fond smile. “We always notice you, we love you Jane, we just want what’s best for you, for everyone.”

“Hm, what’s best…”

After a moment of them falling into silence, Mal brushed her hands over her knees. “Well, I should probably get going then, make sure I’ve got time to put together all of these amazing plans.” She grinned and then started to make her way for the door. “But please, feel free to reach out, you know, if you need it, need anything.” She shrugged as she reached for the door handle.

“Thanks, Mal.” Jane nodded.

“Of course,” Male responded genuinely as she gave a parting nod and then took off and reentered the garden space.

She let herself walk forward towards the exit, to get back to the stairwell, but as walked through, she let herself pause near a small bushel of lilacs. There she sat on the nearby ornate iron bench and just let herself breathe for a moment. It hadn’t phased her in the moment, but it was the first time she’d gotten upset and not had the near-shifting panic she’d always gotten before. And as she sat there, preparing to see her friends, she didn’t feel the overwhelming feeling either. So she just sat in the moment and focused on her chest rising and falling.

Eventually, she did return to the staircase, and her friends all moved quickly to check on her and study her face, looking over her shoulder, probably looking for Jane.

“How did it go?” Ben asked as he reached for her hands.

“Was Jane up there?”

“Did you talk to her? How’s she doing?”

“Did she give you the book?”

Mal put her hand up at all her friends questioning. “Guys, come on,” She sighed out and then started to push past them, well, taking Ben’s hand first she tugged him along to lead them down the stairs. “We have a party to plan.”

Chapter Text

MAL

Many hours and phone calls later, Mal was channeling her inner Jane as she put together a large gathering set to be held in the next few days. To celebrate not only the new academic season, but to celebrate something...someone, who mattered to them all. As she set down the tablet she’d just sent confirmation messages from, she spotted Doug sticking his head into the guest room they finally put to use since arriving at Evie’s.

“Mal?” He asked softly.

“Do you have it?” Mal’s eyes lit up and she waved him in. “Do you have it? How are you able to carry it?” She stepped closer to the door worried she’d have to help him.

But soon Doug was pushing the door open and pulling a little cart in behind him, showing off the chunk of stone.

“Oh.” Mal said softly and then she quickly hurried past him to shut the door behind him.

“Yep, dad knew it was way to heavy for me to carry. So my uncles helped me get this cart they used to use in the mines to carry some debris.” He smiled as he parked the cart in the room.

Mal sighed and stepped away from the door and over to him, and mostly the car, circling it with a close eye. Then, placing her hands on her hips, she grinned over the earthy shape. “It’s perfect, thank you so much D.”

“Anything for you Mal, and you know I have a soft spot for Evie.” Doug grinned over the top of the rock, then eyed it a bit with a tilt of his head. “Do you need any help?”

“Oh, no, this is enough help as it is. Truly. I’ll take it from here,” She then lifted her arms to show him exactly that.

Noting that he stepped away from the rock, she tried not to chuckle to herself at his nervous energy. But as she started to part her lips to speak, to evoke the magic from within her, she felt like she was exposed. So she ended up clearing her throat and lowered her arms some. “Actually…” She said softly, feeling the burn in her cheeks as she looked over at Doug. “I think I’ll do my best work...alone.”

“Oh.” Doug’s thick brows rose up at her words and he then nodded quickly. “Right, right of course Mal. I’ll leave you to it, besides, Evie is probably already scribbling up a to-do list for me.” He adjusted his little bow tie and then nodded. “See ya Mal, and, good luck.”

Mal had let her hands return to her side and she even made an attempt to look like she was reviewing new spells she’d taken to writing down. Starting a new spell book, this time only containing spells that did good things, or were useful. Nothing like the ones her mother had given her.

“Oh, um, yeah, and thanks again Doug, I’ll see you later.” She nodded as she lifted a paper that had some random spell she’d been jotting down and toying with for helping tidy her closet.

After hearing the door close, she let the paper fall from her hand back onto the desk and she sighed out deeply. She’d been so swept up in the idea of making this, she hadn’t realized that she’d need to recite a spell. And a specific one. The more specific, the more likely the rock would look more lifelike, more real.

So, taking a few moments, she turned over her shoulder and she looked over the rocky chunk before her. As she looked over it and in her mind was already chipping away parts to form a crude shape, she also considered her words.

"Magic weave, through rock so grand, mold the stone with gentle hand. In likeness true, let visage show, transform the rock...to him that shall never grow.” As Mal breathed out with all the emotion and tightness in her chest and throat, she watched as the purple magic float from her hands towards the rock. There it swirled and covered the slab entirely, crunching sounds filling the room while it felt like a gust of wind past through, shuffling paper and the like around her. Then, almost as soon as it started, the purple mist subsided and Mal felt a single hot tear roll down her cheek as soon there was no longer a naturally jagged stone, but a smooth and detailed replica of her best friend.

“Carlos…” She let out with a shaky breath and her feet were quickly rushing her forward to wrap him in a hug.

BEN

“Oh, Benny boy!”

A slightly off tune and accented voice sung out as Ben leaned over a table, reading over a list of meals that the kitchen would offer to make for this upcoming event. He wanted to make sure each dish would be absolutely perfect. Each of them had given a handful of dishes that Carlos loved most, and while it was easy for Ben to make sure all of the chocolate-iest treats were chosen, he had to admit some of the names of dishes from the isle were starting to confuse him. So when he heard some irritating voice, he couldn’t help but turn over his shoulder and have a slight edge to his voice.

“What?” Then he felt himself shift and clear his throat. “Sorry. Um, what can I do for-”

His voice faded out as he came face to face with one Harry Hook.

“No.” Ben said a little grumpily, his brow creasing as he crossed his arms over his chest. “Harry, what are you doing here? You know, what never mind, I don’t even have the time to ask, or hear you explanation because I have far too many things to do right now.” As he spoke with more fever, he could feel the soft growl crawling up his throat, the urge he’d inherited and was trying desperately to keep at bay when he got flustered.

“Aw, Benny, you don’t mean that, now do ya’?” Harry smiled his big smile and dragged his hook over his collarbones for effect. “I thought you were just starting to warm up to little ol’ me?”

Before Ben could come up with a diplomatic and yet firm response, he was suddenly bumping into the table’s edge behind him as Harry drew closer, his usual lackey, Gil appearing seemingly out of nowhere at Ben’s side. He wasn’t pinned down, but he was certainly trapped in.

“Hi Ben!” He said cheerfully and then started to pick at the papers on the table.

“Shhhh.” Harry gave Gil a small nod and then he looked back at Ben. “Your majesty.” He said with a mischievous glint in his eye. “No need to…” He smirked a bit too self satisfactory for Ben’s liking. “bear arms now,” The sottish pirate then gave a small shrug as he clapped his hand on the kings shoulder. “We’re here to help!”

"I'm not a bear, I'm a-"

“To help.” Gil repeated just to the side of them, cutting off Ben's offended scoff. “The king, her words specifically.”

At Gil’s words, Harry rolled his eyes and he concealed as best he could a grimace. “Yes, Uma, told us to come help. That you required an extra set of hands. While her many ones are tied at the moment, she wanted to pass us along until she was more available to assist.”

Then his hand came up from his shoulder to give a soft, and what Ben could only assume from Harry was an endearing clap of his palm against his cheek.

“Let us assist, won’t you Benny boy?”

“Oooh!”

An excited sound came from Gil beside them, both of their heads turning his way. They both laid eyes on the boy holding the list of dishes Ben had been reviewing, shaking it with excitement as he smiled.

“Fried acorns, oh yum! Ah, and deviled eggs? No way! My favorite!”

Ben eyed up the boy next to him and he then tilted his head. “Do you, do you know these dishes?”

Gil was nodding quickly after Ben’s question.

“So, so you…” Ben searched his face as he questioned, feeling Harry start to hang himself on his shoulder like he was starting to realize was a common gesture of the Hook family. “Would know what’s in them? How to make them?”

Gil gave a small half frown, almost thoughtful in nature and then looked over the list again. Ben bit down on his bottom lip, unsure if he’d find help here. Then just as he was about to nudge Harry off his shoulder and excuse himself to panic elsewhere, Gil finally lit up.

“I do!” He then shrugged as he scratched at his lopsided beanie. “Er, at least the Isle foods.”

Ben was already breaking out into a large grin as he watched Gil blink rather blankly back at him. “Oh Gil you’re amazing, just genius, really, don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.” He then stepped forward, feeling Harry’s chin slip away from where it’d found purchase on his shoulder. “Tell me, would you like to not only help me, but be probably… no, without a doubt, the biggest help to me for this evening?” He asked cordially as he linked his arm into Gil’s, starting to step towards where the kitchen was.

“The biggest?”

Ben could have sworn Gil’s eyes were glowing with pride as he nodded firmly. “The biggest, truly.” He then offered his charming smile. “I’d like for you to meet the royal cooking staff, and work in a kitchen that has everything you’ll need to make as many deviled eggs and...and fried acorns.”

“Aye!” Harry spoke up from where he’d been left behind, his thick boots making thumps as he hurried to follow. “What about me?”

~

A few hours later, Ben had progressed much farther than he’d anticipated to. Plus, it really had helped that Harry and Gil showed up. With the promise that Uma might also pitch in gave Ben a big boost of confidence that they could pull off this whole thing. As he, Evie, Harry, Jay with a handful of their friends all hurried about the grand hall, they put all of their hearts into making the place look fantastic.

He’d been moving around the room and answering so many questions, walking in so many directions all at once, he’d barely noticed that Mal was no where to be found. As he stepped away from answering questions about napkin colors, he started to scan the room for any signs of his purple clad lover. To his disappointment, he didn’t see her anywhere. Not even at Evie’s side. Of which he was soon quickly approaching as she steamed layers of tulle.

“Hey, uh, Evie,” Ben approached trying to pretend like he wasn’t panicked by not seeing his wife. “Wonderful work on this, uh…”

“Chair bows.” The blue haired fashionista finished for him.

“Chair bows, right.” He did his best to make running his clammy hands over his thighs natural. “They’re looking great, and will look stellar on some chairs.” He grinned and then gave a shrug, moving on. “Say, was this Mal’s idea? We’ve been at such odd ends of the work today, I’ve seemed to have-”

Evie looked over her shoulder, eyeing him. “Lost her?”

Ben nearly blanched at her cut in. “Eh, no, not lost…” He shook his head, trying to not seem to out at sea. “Just, you know, haven’t run into one another yet.”

Evie hummed softly as she returned to swiping steam over the sheer fabric. “The bows were totes my idea.” She nodded proudly as she let the fabric float out of her hand, moving onto the next strand. “But she’s probably been telling Jay what to do, and most definitely checking off things that involve being far away from Harry.” She gave a small tisk at the end though she was faintly smirking.

Ben gave a small sound at her words, knowing that while he appropriated the help, he still didn’t quite enjoy being in Harry’s presence. Still not sure which got under his skin more, the fact that Harry had known Mal more, grew up with her, known her life before coming to Auradon. Or if it was that he saw the way Mal seemed to tense near him. A tension he’d sometimes seen in her when he touched her, if she allowed it. That caused doubt in him. Made him think that, despite all Ben’s titles and land, his fear of a handsome pirate waltzing in to speak sweet nothings into Mal’s ear would loose him the love of his life.

So he quickly assured, while trying not to let the rumble of the beast break the surface. “I made sure whatever tasks he was assigned, guaranteed he stayed far from Mal.” And to keep himself from getting the third degree, he touched Evie’s arm, a kind parting gesture as he added. “I’ll uh, check with Jay then, thanks for the help. And keep up the good work.” He grinned and gave his bright stately grin and then took off in search of the agrabahn friend.

~

After a handful of questions to not only Jay, but to all those who had offered to aide in their crazy pursuit. And by the end of it, he was not any closer to finding his wife. Sure, they could manage without Mal, despite this whole thing being her idea. Yet, after the events of the day, and the recent conversations he’d held with her, his concern was growing. So, with the security of knowing everyone was quickly working away and seemingly on track, it was easy for him to slip out.

As he walked along the halls, it struck him that he really had no idea where to start in looking for Mal. Was she even on campus? Had she taken off? At those thoughts, he felt a small surge of guilt. As her king and husband, he should have kept a closer eye on her. In their time together, Ben had always given Mal space. Of course, she was slowly warming up and finding that she can be comfortable when Ben got all clingy or cozy.

Still, he should have known this would bring up a lot of her. Who knows what she’d regress on after all of this. Though no matter what she went through, Ben knew he’d be there for her. Like he always was. Even if he didn’t get it, or the more complex and heavier emotions evaded him, he’d do it because he loved her. As Ben’s feet slowed and eventually came to a stop, he sighed out and reached his hand into his pocket. Fishing out his phone he started to call Mal, unsure if he’d actually get through.

“Um, hello?”

To his complete surprise, Ben heard his wife’s voice on the other end.

“Oh, um, hi.” Ben stammered a bit in surprise, his brow bending some as he heard background noise.

“D, do you need something?” Mal’s voice was bit rushed, breathy even.

“Yes. Yes honey, um, I was, well,” Ben gave a soft laugh at the way Mal always acted so nonchalant about everything. “Well everyone is pitching in to help get your idea for this party perfect, and they’re doing great, don’t get me wrong…”

“But?” Mal asked, sounding sort of winded.

“But,” Ben started as he shrugged softly, even though she couldn’t see him. “I thought having not only having their monarchs present but the genius behind the idea to be present. You know, boost moral, and probably mostly just answer question should they arise.”

“Ah, heh, yeah, I had uh – ungh-”

A grunt cut off whatever Mal was about to say and Ben’s brows shot up in concern. “Mal?”

“Here, just, uh, getting something done, and I’ll be right there. I-” There was a huff of a breath. “I’ll be right there, I swear.”

“It, I mean it sounds like you could use some help, maybe I can meet you halfway? Or where ever you are, doing...uh, whatever it is you’re doing?”

“Oh, um, well yeah, okay. You could do that.”

“Okay.” Ben started, looking around him as if the answer laid before him. “W, where, Mal where are you?”

“By our statue.”

“The statue?” Ben’s head tilted some, wondering what she’d be doing outside when they were getting ready for the party in the great hall.

“Yes, the statue, I need, I-”

There was some slight shuffling sounds on her end and then a soft sigh, her voice coming back a bit less worn out.

“I could use your help Ben.”

Like a shot of adrenaline, Ben swore he was moving before his brain had decided to. Down the hall and towards the nearest exit to make it towards the campus entrance. “Say less, I’ll be right there, I’m leaving the hall as we speak.”

“Okay, thanks, I’ll um, I’ll see you soon.”

“See you soon honey,”

Then the call disconnected and Ben slid his phone from his ear and back into his pocket, focusing on how to navigate the route to get to the statue as fast as possible. As he rounded the building closest, he hurried up towards the newly minted gold statue of the two of them. A pose that was copied from one of the many photos from their wedding day.

“Mal?”

As he crossed to the font of the statue, he spotted his lilac haired wife. Greeting her with a charming and equally loving smile, he stepped to her side, avoiding the urge to embrace her.

“I’m here.”

“You are.” Mal smiled back, leaning into his side. “Timed perfectly, just when I needed your opinion.” She then gave a nervous airy laugh. “Wouldn’t want to be accused of going against his majesty.”

Ben gave a playful roll of his eyes, knowing that she’d teased him before about their titles and that by a technicality, he ranked above her due to his birthright.

“Oh, I see, you decided to play the long game. You know, with that whole palace overthrowing everyone rumored you were on about after we started dating.”

“Ha, ha.” Mal rolled her eyes and even gave him a elbow to the side. “No, really, I want your opinion. You already know what I think of this thing.” She waved her hand towards the statue casting a shadow over them as they stood bellow it.

Ben reached out and slotted his hand on where he waist went in, rubbing his hand soothingly over her side. “Yes, yes, I remember.” He chuckled some. “You were in favor of it just being me, and or that it remain my parents, for honoring the kingdom they created and left for us to rule.”

“Right,” Mal nodded some and then spared a glance at the statue, then back to him. “And this lovely...recreation of us has been able to shine brightly for the spring semester, I think for the new kids joining next fall, we should give them something else to look at.”

Ben studied his wife’s face and he shrugged. “With what, exactly?”

“Give me, a, just wait there…” Mal started to slip away from his hold and he nodded his head at her instructions.

Then he watched as Mal stepped over towards a large greenery piece, her arm reaching behind it and then producing a small cart that carried something covered up with a green satin drape.

“Uh, this…” Mal said softly, stepped in front of the item behind the fabric, almost like she was standing in front of someone she was protecting. “Just, you know, don’t cry, because if you do, I’m going to and then it’s just going to be too hard to switch it out.” She then cleared her throat and tugged the satin off, revealing a statue.

Not just any statue. It was more than that. Made of minerals, of course, but something about the visage made it take on a, well, like it was full of life. Ben bit down on his lip as he took in the statue, then looked to his wife, who had her back to it while it was unveiled.

“Mal,” Ben’s voice wavered just some and he cursed a little to himself, wanting to stay stoic like she’d asked. “Mal,” He started again, more sure. “It’s beautiful.”

“You think so?”

“I do.” Ben nodded quickly and reached his hand out to take hers, and draw her towards him. “It captures him perfectly. I couldn’t think of any other way to honor him.” As he beamed back at his wife, his free hand reached up to rest his palm on her cheek, and just catching the soft wobble of her lower lip. “It’s amazing Mal, you did just a good job.” He then leaned forward and kissed her forehead. “You need help getting it-”

Then Mal let her hand slip up between them and her fingers wiggled softly, a faint purple haze floating between them. “I’ve got it.” She then giggled softly. “And don’t fret, our likeness will be put to use in front of our castle.”

Ben could not fight the smile on his lips if he tired. “Seems like you’ve thought this all through.” He then gave a small nod. “Your majesty is pleased.”

Mal gave a small playful groan as she shoved him away at the chest. “Oh please!” And while she rolled her eyes she was softly giggling too.

Then after a moment, she gathered herself, rolled her shoulders and then lifted her hand up to their likeness carved in gold.

"Heart of dragon, fierce and wild, transport this far, not riled. Through the skies and lands uncharted, to where our home is to be started.”

And as soon as Ben saw the reflection of gold, it was suddenly an empty platform. It then made him raise a brow.

“Babe, how, uh just how are we to know that the statue made it?”

Mal gave a laugh and shook her head. “Chip said he’d text me.”

Ben gave a soft laugh as he listened to his wife explain that she’d already made plans with their appointed property manager. Seeing as he’d been watching his mother manage his parents castle for years now, he was the perfect choice.

“You really did think of everything, why did I even doubt it.”

“I don’t know,” Mal gave a playful shrug as she turned to the statue of their friend. “But please, shhhh, I need to focus.”

Ben let his teasing smile slip away as he watched Mal focus again on the new statue, knowing it would go better if she was able to work in quiet.

Soon, Mal’s hands rose and a purple fog surrounded the statue.

“With magic's touch, bright and gentle, carry this swiftly to prove this monumental.”

Ben watched as purple smoke nearly enveloped the statue, worried that it would dissipate and the statue would too. Yet, it was smoothly floating through the air and taking a firm place atop the empty platform.

“You did it!” Ben cheered out, forgetting his needed silence.

Mal jolted some, but thankfully was finished with her magic, so the statue remained firm in it’s place. And without another word, Ben tugged Mal into him and kissed her over and over. “You did it, you’re brilliant Mal. So smart and so kind.” He mumbled between each kiss.

This prompted giggles from Mal as she looped her arms around his neck, leaning into his chest as she sighed between his frantic kisses. “Oh shut up.”

Ben let himself slow his kisses against her mouth and he sighed out contently as he rested his forehead against hers. “It’s true, and you know it.” He then chuckled softly. “And besides, if you deny it, you’re denying your king.”

This only made another bubble of of laughter from the both of them. Soon, Ben slipped his hand into Mals and he started to pull on her hand. “You’ve worked hard enough, come see what everyone’s been doing for the party.”

Yet as he started to step away, he felt a bit of resistance from her, where she was standing still. Ben gave a half frown and he stepped back towards her where he stole a kiss from her cheek. “We’ll visit him again before bed, I promise, we’ll wish him goodnight too.”

“We’ll talk to him.”

Mal finally spoke up and Ben wasn’t sure if it was a question or a statement, her inflection rather conflicting in and of itself.

“We can, if you’d like. Or not, if it that’s too weird.”

“No,” Mal shook her head, her eyes glittering slightly with unshed tears. “I like that, a lot.”

“Good.” Ben nodded his head and then with a quick pulse of their locked hands, he returned to leading her away and towards the hall that was slowly but surely turning into a beautifully decorated ballroom.