Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Gaston grinned down at the small bundle sleeping peacefully in his arms. It was far too easy for him to get in and out of the baby’s room unnoticed, it was almost like they were asking for it!

This would show them. This would show that dastardly beast that he couldn’t just take whatever he wanted without consequence. This would show Belle what a terrible mistake she’d made. She should have been his wife, not that ghastly brute’s. It was nothing more than a vile creature making play it was still a man. This would show them all.

He got as far away from the castle as he could post haste, he planned to be long gone before they even realised the newborn Prince was missing. They’d never find him. They’d never know. It was all just so easy.

He’d just reached the busy docks when it occurred to Gaston that he had no idea what to do with the baby now that he had it. He’d been so focused on planning how to take the child that he hadn’t put much thought into what he would do after he’d successfully implemented his evil plan.

He frowned at the small creature, still peacefully asleep. He couldn’t keep it, no way. With a father like that anything could be wrong with it. Besides, Gaston fully intended to father his own children. Big, strong, strapping, young men with fine physiques and even finer looks. Just like him. They would be the greatest men in all the lands. No, he simply couldn’t be keeping some half-breed brat that he’d only taken as part of a revenge scheme.

With a shrug and a quick cursory glance around to make sure no one was watching, he dumped the child in a random crate that had been left aside and walked away.

The boy would wake up soon enough and start screeching no doubt. Someone would find him, take him to the nearest orphanage or take him in. It was no concern of Gaston’s and, quite frankly, none of his business. As long as he didn’t find his way back to the castle he was happy.

Hours passed as the baby slept peacefully in the empty crate, oblivious to his situation. The hour was late and the docks empty, when the baby did finally wake and begin his desperate cries for comfort. It was only by chance that someone happened to be walking past, using the cover of night to go about his business unnoticed and undisturbed.

Blackbeard, one of the most feared pirates in all the lands, had been hoping to gather supplies and escape the city undetected. His crew and his ship, Queen Anne’s Revenge, were ready and waiting for him, but the small, anguished cries had stopped him in his tracks.

The pirate slowly approached the crate the sound was emanating from and was surprised to find a small baby, bundled up in a blanket. “Easy, little one.” He cooed softly as he picked the child up. The baby immediately fell silent, looking up at the strange man with thick black facial hair with wide, wet, hazel eyes. “Hey, it’s okay. Nothing to cry about.” Blackbeard continued his soft murmuring.

He could barely quell the rage rising within him as he looked over the sweet, helpless, little creature in his arms. He was far from a good man, he was a villainous pirate through and through, but abandoning a newborn baby. What kind of twisted sicko does that?

Blackbeard adjusted the child’s blanket swaddle slightly and noticed an embroidered pattern on one of the corners, what appeared to be a wolf, or a wolf-like creature at any rate, and the name Benjamin. Blackbeard frowned just a little. It appeared that the blanket was handmade. Who put all that effort into a blanket just to abandon the child on the docks?

“Edward?” He heard a soft voice behind him and sighed, there was only one person who’d ever had the nerve to call him by his given name and he certainly wouldn’t be happy about having an extra mouth to feed.

It didn’t matter. Blackbeard was captain and what he said went. He could not in good conscience leave a poor, defenceless baby out here on its own. It would die.

Poor little Benjamin didn’t ask to be brought into this world and it wasn’t right that he should be forced to leave it cold, hungry and alone because those who bore him didn’t have the integrity to do right by him.

“Get back to the ship, Izzy,” he said, turning to face his first mate with a roguish smile. “We’ve got to make room for a little one.”

Chapter Text

“Well, hello sailor.”

Ben rolled his eyes at the oh-so-familiar Scottish accent but was unable to wipe the smile from his face as he climbed up onto the deck of the Lost Revenge.

Harry dropped down from the rigging with a grin of his own, eyes hungrily raking over the other boy. “Give us a twirl,” he teased causing Ben to laugh.

He obediently spun around, showing off the sleeveless, black military jacket he was sporting. It had large silver buttons and fit Ben’s frame perfectly. It gave his black tank, leather pants— which he’d covered in buckles and zips and adorned with chains— worn boots and bandanna a slightly more sophisticated feel.

“Birthday present?” Harry asked as Ben drew closer. He nodded enthusiastically.
“Yeah, from Dad. It’s a ‘handmade, custom, Evie special’ apparently,” Ben quoted, causing Harry to chuckle.

He grabbed Ben’s collar and pulled him in close with a smirk. “Well, it looks very sexy.” He said, grinning wickedly down at the golden-brown-haired boy, eyeliner making his blue eyes sparkle.

It wasn’t until they were close like this that Ben really noticed the few inches of height the dark-haired boy had on him, but he knew how much Harry loved to use them to his advantage.

Ben leant in and kissed Harry hard, arms wrapping around his waist. He hummed in approval as he kissed back just as eagerly. Ben could feel the cold metal of Harry’s hook against the back of his neck and it had him shuddering at the possibilities.

“And here I was hoping turning twenty would make you two less disgusting to be around.” They grudgingly pulled apart to greet their captain.
“Hey, Uma,” Ben called cheerfully as Harry shot the caramel-skinned girl a thoroughly unimpressed look.
“Happy birthday, Beastie.” She smirked fondly as she threw some of her turquoise braids over her shoulder.

Ben grinned, showing off his elongated canines, the reason for the nickname in the first place— originally thought of by Harry, of course.

He’d always been rather fond of them, they gave him a dangerous edge which was always beneficial when living on a prison island filled with villains. Not that Ben needed much edge given that his dad was one of the most feared pirates to ever sail the seven seas. Well, before he’d been trapped by the stupid King of course.

Harry leaned in close, his lips brushing against Ben’s ear as he spoke in a sultry whisper. “Ye can have yer present from me tonight after the party.” He pulled back with a seductive grin and Ben found himself matching it.

He had a strong urge to lean in and kiss the other lad once more, but Uma was already making gagging sounds, and he knew with the way Harry was looking at him that if he kissed him now it would quickly become the kind of situation that the definitely didn’t want an audience for.

“Ben!” He pulled away from Harry as Gil came barrelling over the second he emerged from the door that led below deck. He scooped Ben up into a tight hug and the elder boy laughed. “Hey, Gil!” He grinned.
“Happy birthday!” The long-haired boy cried as he carefully deposited Ben on the deck.

“So, are you excited for your party tonight?” Uma asked, eyebrow raised. He nodded.
“Duh, we pirates throw the best parties!”

It was true. Every party they had ever thrown had been a raging success. They always ended up attracting half the Isle and everyone always got stinking drunk. Harry always ended up doing something ridiculous that usually involved climbing things he probably shouldn’t and Ben usually woke up somewhere random with several hours missing from his memory that the others took great pleasure piecing together for him. It was about as good as it got on the Isle of the Lost.

“Well, you best be on your way,” Uma declared, making a shooing motion with her hands. Ben frowned with confusion.
“What? I thought we were hanging out!” Gil chuckled as Uma shook her head.
“It’s just me I’m afraid, love,” Harry said, wrapping an arm around Ben’s shoulder.

“Gil and I have party prep to do,” Uma explained. “But I’m sure Harry can keep you plenty occupied until tonight.” Harry’s grin was sinful and immediately made Uma regret her words. Ben laughed at her dismayed expression. “Oh, I don’t doubt that.”

The pair walked side by side as they disembarked, making their way to the boardwalk. “Don’t worry.” Harry grinned, bumping their shoulders together playfully. “I’ve got everything planned.” Ben chuckled.
“Sure you do,” he teased.

They’d known each other almost their entire lives so Ben knew that there was no way Harry wasn’t completely winging this, but he also knew that whatever they did end up doing would be perfect. Any time spent with Harry was time well spent. Not that he’d ever voice the thought. He had a reputation to uphold after all.

Harry made a groaning noise, hands coming up to his heart as he staggered, miming a dramatic injury. “Ye wound me!” He cried causing Ben to shove him with a snort. “You’re an idiot.”
“Aye, but ye love it.” Ben did.

They weren’t as affectionate with each other away from the relative safety of the Revenge. Whilst love wasn’t completely unheard of on the Isle, it was rare and it was often treated as a weakness, a sign that you weren’t a true villain. Only heroes fell in love, villains had their evil plans foiled by it. They didn’t feel it. It was best to keep quiet if you didn’t want to find yourself being beaten to a bloody pulp.

Whilst they weren’t completely hidden away, and no one cared about people’s sexual preferences or the frequency at which they had it, most people simply assumed they were just close, slightly boisterous, best friends. The sons of two of the most fearsome pirates, inseparable. The people that mattered knew the truth, that was all the pair cared about.

They wandered away from the docks and into the main thoroughfare. The streets were busy with people selling their wares and haggling prices on their purchases. Kids ran around causing havoc and getting in people’s way. Just your standard day on the Isle of the Lost.

Harry pushed his way through and Ben followed behind, unsure of where they were heading but happy to let him lead. It would no doubt be trouble which always made for an exciting adventure.

A small child ran into Ben’s legs and he immediately glanced down. He didn’t have anything in his pockets for the kids to steal but that didn’t mean they wouldn’t try.

The boy’s eyes widened as Ben sent him a menacing grin, fangs on full display. “Sorry, Mister,” he gasped, jumping backwards out of Ben’s way and straight into a middle-aged woman’s path. She tutted loudly but the young boy ignored her. His eyes remained on Ben as he scampered off.

Ben glanced up to the annoyed woman who quickly looked away when she realised who he was.

They paused outside the Slop Shop as Harry stopped to talk to a couple of girls sitting at one of the tables outside. He bent over the table artfully, giving them his most charming smile as they giggled, completely distracted and oblivious to Harry’s subtle hand movements.

With a wink, Harry left them to their day before rejoining Ben with a satisfied grin. He loved to use his good looks and powers of flirtation for wicked. Especially since he knew Ben didn’t mind his methods. It was harmless really and it never went anywhere, Harry was his and they both knew it.

“Get anything good?” Ben asked once they were out of earshot. Harry shot him a sideways grin before producing two purses and an expensive-looking bracelet that could only have come over from Auradon. How she’d managed to swipe it before the goblins did Ben would never know. No doubt it would go for good money at Jafar’s junk shop.

They headed along to Shan Yu’s and Ben waited outside as Harry used the few rusty coins from the purses he’d acquired to buy them some lunch. It was always a mystery what you’d end up with but it was always worth it.

Ben grinned as Harry reappeared with a lidded bamboo basket in hand. He took the basket and removed the lid to see what they’d got. “Jackpot!” He declared as he looked down at the steaming bao dumplings sitting within.

Harry grinned and plucked one up, popping it straight in his mouth. He moaned in approval, eyes sparkling. “Barbecue pork,” he groaned around his mouthful and Ben licked his lips with anticipation before helping himself.

Shan Yu’s made the best food on the Isle, it was the closest the villains could get to fine dining. Whilst the food wasn’t exactly fresh—none of the supplies they received from Auradon ever were— it was as close as they were ever going to get. It was always warm and tasted good regardless of how old its components may or may not be.

They tossed the basket once they were done, making their way down to Goblin Wharf.

Today wasn’t a delivery day so there weren’t any supply ships, but there were still plenty of goblins about. They were amusing to watch, often incompetent, and quick to lose their tempers with each other. It made for good entertainment on a quiet afternoon.

The pair got comfortable, sitting on the wall that ran along the walkway leading down to the dock. They had the perfect view of the small creatures running around seemingly aimlessly and yelling at each other in Goblin. Neither of them had any idea what they were saying, but it was fun to try and guess.

“Wait, wait, check out those two!” Ben called between giggles, pointing towards a pair nearer the water. They had deliberately taken themselves away from the others and, if the wild and increasingly frequent hand gestures were anything to go by, were having quite an intense conversation. “They’re totally gearing up for a fight.”

Harry’s expression was thoughtful as he eyed the pair. “I reckon it’s a lover’s tiff.” Ben raised an eyebrow, surprised and intrigued by the assessment. “Yeah?” Harry nodded vigorously.
“There’s too much tension, there has to be deeper feelings involved.” Ben couldn’t help but laugh.

“Do you think that’s what we look like then we fight?” Harry snorted.
“Nah. Nay one’s gotten in the other’s personal space yet.” Ben chuckled, leaning into Harry so their shoulders bumped together companionably. As much as he wanted to kiss the other lad you could never be sure who was watching from the shadows.

The pair didn’t argue often but when they did it was intense, they were both too fiery and short-tempered for their own good, too quick to fly off the handle. It usually involved a lot of screaming in each other’s faces and coarse language.

It never lasted long though. An angry Harry was a sight to behold and Ben struggled to keep his hands to himself. The angry screaming became angry fucking which usually worked out enough of the rage that they could have an actual conversation. Probably not the healthiest way of dealing with things but it worked for them.

“Ye know,” Harry began, his tone deliberately suggestive. “Ye could have one of yer birthday presents now. If ye want.” Ben chuckled throatily, his mind filling with less-than-pure thoughts as he wondered where exactly this was going. “I’m getting more than one?” Harry chuckled, smirking playfully. “Maybe, if yer a good boy.” Ben shuddered at the implications.

“Go on then,” he teased, eyebrow raised with a challenging quirk. Harry snorted and rolled his eyes before fishing in his pocket.
“Close yer eyes.” Ben rolled his eyes at the blue-eyed boy’s antics but obliged.

He sat patiently, waiting and wondering as he sensed Harry shifting slightly beside him. He could hear the nervous hitch to the other lad’s breath and he had to fight hard not to open his eyes prematurely. What on earth could Harry have planned that would make him nervous?

Ben gasped softly as he felt Harry’s slender fingers circle his left wrist. He lifted it gently and Ben was surprised by the feeling of soft material against his skin. Leather perhaps?

Harry let him go and then there was a pregnant pause. “Ye can open yer eyes now.” Harry’s voice was uncharacteristically shy, vulnerable in a way he never was with anyone else. It filled Ben with a strange mix of anticipation and fear. This was obviously important to Harry, his heightened emotions betraying just how much this meant. What on earth could it be?

Ben slowly opened his eyes, his own nerves starting to bubble in his stomach as he glanced down at his wrist.

He was surprised to find a black leather cuff had been fixed there. It had a red stitched design at its centre, claw marks over a hook. The two of them, together. Ben’s breath caught in his throat.

“Did you… did you make this?” He asked, voice quiet as he lifted his head to meet Harry’s gaze. He nodded, swallowing audibly.
“CJ taught me how to do the stitching stuff.” Ben felt his heart swell as he looked back down, a smile rapidly growing on his face.

Harry had put so much effort into it. He’d taken the time to learn the skill, even going as far as to ask his sister for help. He had clearly practised before making the final piece, doing everything he could to ensure it would be perfect. He’d designed it himself, a personal design that could only ever refer to them. Subtle and sweet, but strong and intimidating. Ben vowed then and there that he would never take it off.

He pulled Harry into him, enveloping him in a tight hug. “Thank you,” he said seriously, pressing his cheek into Harry’s neck.
“Ye really like it?” Harry asked as he pulled back, sea glass gaze searching Ben’s face for any hint of deceit. “It’s okay if ye don’t, it’s super cheesy and it looks kinda childish.” Ben smiled, shaking his head softly as he leaned in so their lips were only a matter of millimetres apart.
“You’re lucky I’m not lactose intolerant.”

Harry huffed, shoving Ben away as he chuckled. “I love it,” he said, a bit more seriously so Harry wouldn’t take genuine offence. “It’s perfect.” Harry gave a soft sigh and allowed Ben to pull him back into his chest. “Happy birthday, Beastie.”

“Why don’t we just stay out tonight?” Ben asked after a moment as he released Harry from his grasp. “Just you and me.” Harry raised an amused eyebrow. “Because Uma would castrate the both of us for bailing on her party.” Ben chuckled, shaking his head. He probably had a point.

“Oh, go on. You know you want to.”
“I also want to keep my balls.” Ben pouted, giving his best puppy eyes. They both knew Harry couldn’t resist that look.

Harry sighed, leaning in and pecking his lips. “We’re going. If ye still wanna bail after an hour we can come back. Deal?” Ben relented, nodding. It was the best he was going to get.

“You drive a hard bargain, Hook.” Harry laughed.
“Well, I gotta make ye work for it a little. Can’t have people thinking I’m easy.” Ben barked out a laugh at that, shaking his head.

For someone who’d been in a monogamous relationship since he was fifteen Harry had somehow managed to gain himself quite the reputation. Most people on the Isle were under the impression he’d slept with half its residents. Ben couldn’t help but find it funny.

When the time to return to the ship came they ran through the streets giggly and excited. Ben allowed himself to be pulled along by the hand, too wrapped up in the feeling to focus on anything else.

They got in people’s ways and knocked things off of stalls as they passed, leaving cries of annoyance and indignation in their wake. The bubbly, dizzy, jubilation had taken over and all either lad cared about was the feeling of the other’s hand in their own. The giddy joy of love, pure and unbreakable. Even when hidden in shadow.

When they reached the ship it had been completely transformed. Ben couldn’t help but be impressed. It had been fully decorated with balloons, streamers and banners. There were party lights, drinks, music and people dancing and chatting everywhere. It looked like most of the Isle’s youth had turned out.

“Well, what do you think?” Ben turned to find Uma approaching, a proud grin on her face.
“Where did you get all this stuff?” Ben asked in disbelief making her chuckle.
“I’m a very resourceful person, Benjamin. You should know that by now.” Ben chuckled, shaking his head. He should have expected such a vague answer really. “Thank you.” He meant it.

Ben soon found himself lost in the crowd. The whole crew was there, of course, and various friends and allies. Everyone was wishing him a happy birthday and everyone seemed to be having the time of their lives in his honour. Maybe he was glad Harry had convinced him to come after all.

He soon found himself a few drinks in and dancing. He was currently enjoying the nice little pocket of tipsy where he was feeling the alcohol enough that he was completely content and having fun, free of inhibitions, but was still completely lucid and present. He didn’t think it would last long what with Harry sporadically appearing with drinks, but he would certainly make the most of it.

“Well, if it isn’t the birthday boy.” Ben spun around, surprised, as Mal slid through the crowd until she was right beside him.
“What are you doing here?” He asked bluntly, eyebrow raised. There was no way Uma would have told her about the celebrations.

Mal just gave a one-shouldered shrug and grinned at him mischievously. “You didn’t think I’d miss your birthday, did you?” Ben’s eyebrows furrowed as she winked, her eyes sharp like a hungry snake watching its prey, coiled and waiting for the opportune moment to strike.

“You hate us,” Ben stated, causing her to frown.
“No, I hate Uma,” She explained, her eyebrows furrowing slightly before she smiled slyly at him. “I’m very fond of you.” She ran her dainty fingers up his arm and Ben barely managed to repress the urge to recoil. What was that supposed to mean?

He felt a hand on his hip and a familiar body press up against him. Warm breath caressed his neck and he involuntarily shuddered as chapped lips brushed his ear. “Jonas has managed to get hold of some pixie dust if yer interested?” Ben grinned, turning to face Harry with a glint in his eyes. “Does an ogre like cheese puffs?” Harry chuckled and led Ben out of the crowd, neither lad sparing Mal a second glance.

“I leave ye alone for five minutes and yer admirers descend,” Harry teased, Ben only frowned in response.
“What?” Harry laughed, only stopping when Ben continued to frown at him.
“Wait, seriously?” Ben gave a shrug indicating for him to elaborate but Harry only continued to grin like the Cheshire Cat. “Oh my god, I can’t believe ye don’t know!”
“Know what?” Ben huffed, annoyed at being kept out of the loop.
“Mal’s into ye!”

That drew Ben up short and he promptly stopped in the middle of the small walkway that had formed at the edge of the deck, around the dance floor. “What!?” Harry cackled, taking far too much pleasure in his shock.
“She totally wants ye.”

He looked rather like the cat that ate the canary and Ben wasn’t sure if it was the knowing something that Ben didn’t or the fact that someone else wanted something that was his. Either way, it gave Ben the strong urge to find a way to wipe the smirk off his face, one way or another.

“She hates us,” he reiterated though he wasn’t entirely sure why he was still arguing the point. Harry rolled his eyes.
“Nay, she hates Uma. The rest of us are untrustworthy by default because of our allegiances with her. But ye, Beastie, are the exception. Yer gorgeous face has won her over without even trying.” Ben rolled his eyes at the flattery.

“The joke’s on her I guess.” Harry chuckled and grinned, wrapping an arm around Ben’s waist as he got him moving once more.
“The joke’s on everyone.”

The pair stayed much longer than the hour they’d planned for. It was at about four am, as Ben stood giggling hysterically with Desiree as they watched Harry hanging off the disco ball that had been tied to the crow’s nest, that he decided that this was the best birthday he’d ever had.

“Doesn’t it get exhausting watching him show off all the time?” Ben rolled his eyes as he turned to face the purple-haired girl he’d been avoiding all evening. “I think he’s great actually,” Ben returned as he watched Uma shout at Harry to get down before he hurt himself. He couldn’t stop himself from grinning, though that probably had more to do with the mix of pixie dust and alcohol currently circumnavigating his system.

Mal pouted all big doll eyes and faux innocence.

She was, objectively, an attractive girl, Ben knew that. He wasn’t blind after all. He just didn’t care. He’d been in love with Harry for five years and that wasn’t about to change just because some pretty girl was interested in him. The matter of who owned his heart had been a done deal long ago.

There was a loud twanging sound as the rope that had been used to tie up the disco ball began to snap, strand by frayed strand. Without thinking, Ben darted forward as the rope completely came apart and the ball started to fall, bringing Harry down with it.

Had Ben been in possession of his full faculties he could have caught Harry with relative ease, as it was he misjudged his positioning and ended up only softening Harry’s landing.

“Ow,” He groaned as he lay on his back, Harry sprawled on top of him with his elbow digging into Ben’s ribcage.

There was a moment of tense silence as everyone stared at the pair, assessing the damage. Then Harry burst out laughing and Ben promptly followed, burying his face in Harry’s neck. Soon enough everyone followed suit, taking pleasure in the pair’s idiocy.

“Thanks for saving my gorgeous face.” Harry grinned, pushing himself up slightly so he wasn’t completely crushing Ben.
“I think you broke my spine,” Ben said, faking an injured cough.
“Aww poor baby,” Harry smirked down at him causing Ben to roll his eyes.

He pulled Harry down into a kiss and Harry hummed in approval, kissing back languidly. No one was paying them any attention now and they were both too intoxicated to care.

Harry pulled back with a sultry smile and sat up. “How about we head down to our room?” He asked, his voice low and husky. Ben licked his lips and nodded eagerly, allowing himself to be pulled to his feet.

Uma rolled her eyes as she watched them not so subtly make their way to the door that led below deck.

She wasn’t the only one watching them go. Mal stared at them with shock and disbelief as the pair disappeared, hand in hand and giddy as school children.

Chapter Text

“Your Majesty?” King Adam looked up from the paperwork he’d been reading to answer the intercom.
“Yes, Deborah?”

He rubbed at the bridge of his nose, half-heartedly trying to stave off a headache. They always got worse this close to the anniversary. A physical manifestation of the grief he carried but had mostly learned to live with.

“Fairy Godmother is here to see you.”

The king gave a soft sigh and frowned. He didn’t remember agreeing to a meeting with her but it was entirely possible that he’d forgotten. His mind had been rather distracted this last week. Twenty years on and the anniversary still brought him to his knees, earth-shattering the same way it had been when he’d walked into the nursery to find the empty crib.

“Send her in.”

Fairy Godmother twittered in a moment later, slightly breathless as though she’d run to his office. “Forgive the intrusion, Your Majesty, but this is important.”

Adam sat up straighter in his chair, concerned. “Is everything all right, FG?” Tentatively she took the seat opposite him looking incredibly stressed. He didn’t think he’d ever seen the fey woman look so deeply troubled before.

“I’ve received word from Olympus,” She began, still sounding slightly winded. “The Moirai have released a prophecy…” King Adam frowned as she trailed off. “We don’t interfere with Olympus’s sacred traditions.” The Moirai were a temperamental trio and certainly weren’t to be messed with.

Fairy Godmother nodded in agreement though his words did nothing to deter her. “I understand that, Your Majesty, but this prophecy, well… it pertained to your son.” Adam stiffened as her words sunk in. A prophecy about my son.

He was on his feet and pacing before he’d even registered moving, his hands clenching and unclenching at his side.

What on earth could the fates have to say about Benjamin? All these years they had offered them nothing and now they decided to use their gift of foresight to taunt them? To what end? What could they possibly have to gain from this?

“What was the prophecy?” He asked, his voice dangerously quiet as he stared out at the city beyond the castle.

The late afternoon sun had bathed everything in a warm golden light, the weather completely oblivious to his plight.

“Shouldn’t we wait for Belle?” Fairy Godmother asked, voice concerned.
“Tell me what they say about my son!” He snapped, turning back to face her.

He swallowed hard and forced himself to take a deep breath. “Sorry.” He shouldn’t lose his temper with her, it wasn’t her fault. She nodded slowly in response.

“They say that the Prince is alive. They say that he is afflicted by the same curse that was put on you, that it was a bloodline curse. They say that on his twenty-first birthday, he will transform into the beast currently laying dormant within him, and if he does not receive true love’s kiss before the year is out he will remain in that form forever.”

Adam had to take a seat, his grip tight on the arms of his chair as he tried to ground himself. “My son… my son lives?” Fairy Godmother nodded, a small, encouraging smile on her lips. “Benjamin lives,” She confirmed.

“Then we must find him!” Adam urged, on his feet again, restless with anticipation as the flames of hope ignited within him.

It had been so long since the disappearance, they’d had no choice but to assume the worst, but now? Now they had real proof. He was alive. Benjamin was alive.

“Your Majesty, how would we even start?” Fairy Godmother asked. “He would be a young man by now, likely with no idea who he truly is. He could be anywhere.” The King would not be deterred.
“We will search the entirety of Auradon, kingdom by kingdom. We’ll send out a royal decree, every young man around the right age is to come forward for examination.” A crease formed between Fairy Godmother’s eyebrows.
“But how will you know it’s him? He was just a baby when he was taken.”

Adam paused in his pacing, too many thoughts in his head at once. He should call Belle, she was always excellent at helping him muddle through and straighten them out. She’d know what to do.

“Deborah, have Belle come to my office immediately. Tell her it’s urgent and absolutely cannot wait.”

He knew what she was like, always putting the needs of the kingdom before her own and delaying personal meetings for Auradon’s needs. She absolutely could not be out of the loop on this. He needed her desperately.

“Right away, Sir.”

It wasn’t long before Belle was bursting through the office doors looking harried and concerned. The concern only strengthened as she took in the shock and distress on their faces. “What’s happened?” She asked, her body stiffening as she steeled herself for bad news.

“Darling, I think it best you sit down.” She looked as though she wanted to argue, she had always been much stronger than people gave her credit for, but something in her husband’s tone made her hold her tongue.

She took a seat and glanced between the pair expectantly. Adam came over and got down on his knees in front of her, taking her hand in both of his. She suddenly felt very nervous.

“There has been a prophecy… about Benjamin. He lives, Belle.” Her eyes widened, her free hand immediately coming up to the signet ring that hung on a chain around her neck. The one that had been meant for Ben when he was old enough.

“How can that be?” She whispered, eyes sparkling with unshed tears and a light they had not held in twenty years.
“We’re not sure,” Fairy Godmother explained in her most soothing tone. “But The Moirai were very clear. He lives. He’s out there, somewhere.”

Belle slumped forward, burrowing her face in her husband's shoulder as he gently ran a hand up and down her spine. “Our baby lives,” she whispered, the words not quite sinking in.

“There’s more,” Fairy Godmother added after a moment. “He’s afflicted with the curse.” Belle slowly pulled away from Adam with a frown.
“How can that be? The curse was broken long before he was even conceived.” Fairy Godmother sent her a sympathetic smile as her voice wavered slightly. “It seems the Enchantress cursed not only Adam but his whole bloodline. All his descendants may well have to go through the beast transformation.”

Belle paled, releasing a small, alarmed squeak. “Our poor baby, and he has no idea!” Adam sent her a reassuring smile.
“We will find him, darling. We will make this right and help him to get through it. He will be okay.” She nodded, relaxing a little and taking a calming breath.

“What’s the plan?” Adam smiled genuinely at her, as always in awe of her resilience and strength.
“I’d rather hoped we could come up with that together.” She smiled warmly and squeezed his hand.

“Alright. What do we know?”
“Not a lot I’m afraid,” Fairy Godmother sighed as Adam got to his feet. “We know he’s almost twenty, we know we have a year to find him and we know he’s in the kingdom somewhere. It’s not much to go on.” Belle’s eyebrows furrowed in thought.

“We will search the kingdom,” Beast assured her. “We will leave no stone unturned. Every boy around the right age will be inspected.”

Belle’s expression remained thoughtful, still toying with the ring around her neck. “How will we know it’s him?” She asked quietly.
“We were hoping you might have an idea.”

They fell silent for a long moment before Belle turned to Fairy Godmother appraisingly. “Is there a spell perhaps? Some sort of identity magic? A spell or revelation?” Fairy Godmother looked pained as she shook her head.
“Nothing that I know of. There are many revelation spells but they work on the presumption that the true nature of the subject is in some way hidden. It is very unlikely the young Prince will be in disguise, he simply won’t know any life beyond the one he’s experienced up until now. This will likely be a very traumatic experience for him.”

The King and Queen exchanged a look, it was clear neither of them had considered the possibility that he may actually be content with his current life.

“Perhaps we should speak with the fates. They may have more information to give.” Adam frowned as Fairy Godmother’s expression became apprehensive. “The Moirai are tricky beings. You must ask the right questions and you will be unlikely to get a straight answer regardless.”

The royal couple exchanged another look before both nodding in silent agreement. “We will take our chances,” the King confirmed. “We have to find our son.”

Belle immediately disappeared to pack their bags as Adam set about making the necessary arrangements for the kingdom during their time away.

“Are you sure this is a good idea?” Fairy Godmother worried once more. “You may not get the answers you want and you will miss the birthday memorial.” Adam hated that he would not be in the city for it and he knew Belle would feel the same, but it was a necessary sacrifice.
“The fireworks will go on with or without us and if necessary you can give a speech on our behalf. The citizens will understand.” Fairy Godmother looked like she wanted to argue further but she kept quiet. Nothing she said would change their minds.

“Good luck, Your Majesty.” She said finally before leaving the office.

They were on the road within the hour, word sent ahead of their arrival.

It would take them a day to get to Olympus and then they would have to arrange a meeting with the Moirai, at their convenience of course. Who knew how long that would take?

Still. For the first time in years, there was hope. There was a real chance that they would see their son again. They had to hold on to that.

The journey was spent mostly in silence. A mix of quiet contemplation of the questions they would ask and simply needing time to adjust to the sudden change in their situation.

They had both come mostly to terms with the fact they would never see their son again and now they had a plan to the contrary. It was a lot to process. To have grieved someone in vain was an odd feeling.

When they reached the golden gates of Olympus with their dual lightning bolt design, they were surprised to be received by the King and Queen of the gods themselves. Zeus and Hera looked sympathetic as they embraced the royal couple, they knew the pain of having your child taken from you, though Hercules had returned to them many years before.

“It’s good to see you both,” Zeus greeted, leading them to the guest quarters, his purple chiton dragging across the floor yet gathering no dirt. His usually jovial face was solemn behind his neatly trimmed white beard.

His wife’s expression was just as sombre, her usually vibrant pink skin was pale and her peach hair had been pulled back from her face making her appear more severe and defined.

“Thank you for hosting us on such short notice,” Belle said graciously. Hera waved them off.
“It’s the least we can do. We have arranged for you to meet with the Moirai tomorrow and if there is anything else we can do for you, don’t hesitate to ask. We want to help however we can.” They sent the gods appreciative smiles.
“Thank you. We are so grateful for your assistance in all this.” The gods waved off their thanks once more.
“Whatever it takes, the young Prince must be found.”

They reached their room for the duration of their stay and were left to unpack with instructions on how to reach the house staff should they need anything.

The room was all white marble with golden accents giving it a remote yet regal feel. There were large stone pillars reaching high above to the cavernous ceiling and a large balcony with a view of Olympus in it’s entirety. The whole city had a sense of grandeur unlike anything either of the royals had previously experienced.

Unable to sleep, Adam found himself leaning against the balcony’s stone balustrade and taking in the view. It was strange to be up above the clouds, seeing the world from such a distance made him feel small and unworthy in a way nothing else ever had.

He had never been one for adventure, that was much more Belle’s wheelhouse. It was her rebellious wandering ways that had lead her to his castle in the first place, headstrong and certain and seeking out her father. He had never imagined how she would change his life.

“Darling?” Belle’s soft voice called to him from within their chambers. She appeared a few seconds later, a soft white robe wrapped around her shoulders. She looked exhausted, the beginnings of dark shadows starting to form under her eyes. “Come to bed. We’re going to need to be well-rested for tomorrow.” Adam sighed softly, taking her hand as he glanced back out over Olympus. There was a restless ache in his bones that would not let him sleep just yet.

“Perhaps it would be wise if we prepare our questions for tomorrow. We will only get three and we must make sure we get as much information as possible.” Belle nodded in agreement, gently pulling him over to the small wicker couch that sat next to the balcony’s door where they both made themselves comfortable.

“I think our top priority must be finding a way to identify him. If we cannot identify him then searching for him will be a pointless endeavour.” Adam could not fault her logic. This was, after all, the main reason for their visit to the land of the gods.

“Finding out as much as we can about where he is would help narrow our search, I think the less stress we have to cause the people the better.” Belle nodded at her husband’s practicality. A nationwide search would only cause unnecessary upheaval. They didn’t want every young lad in the kingdom to start to doubt their parents and lineage.

“What of our final question?” Adam asked. He could not think of much more they needed to know.
“I should like to know if he is happy.” Adam smiled, Belle had always been the kindest soul with the sweetest nature.
“That’s beautiful,” he told her. “But perhaps we should ask something a little more informative?” She gave a soft sigh but nodded, eyebrows creasing as she thought.

“Perhaps we should keep it simple,” she said slowly. “Perhaps we should ask them his name.” Adam only frowned.
“We know his name. We gave it to him.” Belle sent him a small, sad, smile.
“I mean the name that he is using now. It may help narrow our search and it is very unlikely that his kidnappers would have kept his name the same. It would draw too much attention.” Adam nodded slowly. He hadn’t thought of that.

“That settles it then,” he said, taking his wife’s hand and squeezing reassuringly. “We have our questions.”

Neither of them rested easy that night. Despite their picturesque surroundings they could find no sense of peace. They were on the cusp of a discovery, of being closer to their son than they’d been since the day he was taken. It was both terrifying and exciting.

They were awake hours before the dawn light pierced the sky, lying silently beside each other in the large bed.

“Are you nervous?” Belle asked, shattering the oppressive silence that had blanketed them for hours.
“Petrified.” Adam would not lie to her. Not now. Not about this. “I am both desperate to hear what they have to say and terrified of the answers. I am scared for our son, of what he may have been through these past years, but I am even more worried that he may be happy, that we may be tearing him from a good life. I don’t really know what to think or feel.”

Belle gave a soft sigh, rolling onto her side so she was facing him, her expression troubled. “Are we being selfish by doing this? Maybe we should just leave him be.” Adam immediately shook his head.
“We can’t. We don’t know how the curse will affect him, he could be dangerous. We can’t risk our people. Besides, he is heir to the throne. No matter what he has been through, he’ll make a much better King than our current successor.”

Belle chuckled softly, shaking her head. “Chad is lacking somewhat, isn’t he? Though I’m not sure Cinderella and Charming will appreciate the loss of power.” Adam gave a dismissive shrug.
“They cannot deny the true heir to the throne.”

When the time for their meeting came Hera led them up a large white staircase to the meeting room of the gods. At the centre of the room was a large white, marble table and beside it stood three figures, all in dark robes with hoods that obscured their faces.

A heavy sense of foreboding filled the air and it caused a tight knot in the King’s stomach. For Ben. He reminded himself.

“So, you are the ones who seek our council.” Three voices spoke in unison, piercing and unnerving despite their surprisingly gentle tones.
“We are the parents of the Prince you saw in your recent prophetic visions. The one who was taken at birth.”

“We know who you are.” The left-most of the figures spoke.
“And we know what’s already come to be.” The central figure added.

It was incredibly difficult for the royal couple to follow the thread of the conversation. The constant switching back and forth between the trio to finish a simple sentence was both infuriating and seemingly superfluous. There was no logic to the bizarre method of communication and nothing to be gained. It was as incomprehensible as their very nature. 

“Show yourselves,” Adam snapped, already starting to grow irritated by their arrogant and patronising attitude. Belle immediately squeezed his arm in admonition. They needed to stay calm and play nice if they wanted to get anything out of this.

“We want to know more about our son so that we might find him,” Belle said, voice calm and collected. “We did not mean to offend you.”

There was a long, tense pause and for a moment Adam wondered if they would even bother to speak again. Slowly, to his surprise, they lowered their hoods.

Before them stood three beautiful women, one blonde, one brunette, and one auburn-haired. Their faces appeared ageless, both young and old at once. Their skin was unmarked by time but their eyes filled with a heavy sense of wisdom that only came with centuries of life.

“We are the three who shape the world of men.”
“We go by many names, fate, destiny, kismet.”
“You may ask us three questions regarding the boy you seek.”

“Where is he?” Adam asked without preamble. He wanted to get out of there as quickly as possible. These women made him uncomfortable in a way he couldn’t quite explain.

The Moirai smiled at him, though there was no comfort to be found in the cold lift of their lips, teeth bared almost menacingly. “The boy has found a home for his heart among the sea scavengers.”

Adam blinked at the total lack of information. Fairy Godmother had warned them that the Moirai could be difficult but he hadn’t expected this level of deliberate vagueness. It was maddeningly unhelpful.

He opened his mouth to demand a better answer but Belle cut him off before he could speak. “How will we recognise him when we find him? It has been too long for us to know him by sight.”

There was a long pause as the Moirai studied her with thoughtful gazes. Adam had to fight hard against the urge to step in front of her and block her from their view.

They moved in unison, holding out their hands. “The chain around your neck.”
“It holds a ring, yes?”
“A gift for the child perhaps?”
“Give it here, deary.”
“We’ll enchant it for you.”
“It’ll know its true master when it meets him.” Hesitantly, Belle removed the chain from her neck and handed it over.

The Moirai clasped their hands around the ring and for a moment nothing happened but soon enough an eerie blue light began to emanate from their fists, getting brighter and brighter to the point where the king found himself shielding his eyes.

The glowing stopped as suddenly as it had begun and when they returned the ring it looked no different from how it had before they’d touched it. Belle eyed it wearily for a moment before returning the chain to her neck.

“That’s it, deary. Keep it close.”
“Keep it safe.”
“You’ll need its guiding light for your search.”

Adam was starting to get a headache from all the overthinking that seemed to come hand in hand with their cryptic retorts. Couldn’t they just give a straight answer to something for once?

Fairy Godmother’s voice rang in his head. You must ask the right questions.

“One question left.”
“Choose wisely.”
“What more do you wish to know?”

The royal couple exchanged a look. Adam carefully reached across and took Belle’s hand, squeezing in reassuringly. “What name does he go by now?”

The fates smiled serenely as though the question pleased them. “A smart choice.”
“A wise question.”
“A simple answer.”

Adam’s heart raced with anticipation as he awaited their answer. “Benjamin Teach.”

That evening Belle found herself standing on the balcony watching the fireworks. Every one of Auradon’s kingdoms put on a display each year in honour of Benjamin’s birthday.

She couldn’t help but wonder if he could see them too, wherever he was. Did he know they were for him? Did he think it was a coincidence that they occurred each year on his birthday? Did he simply think that he and the prince had shared a birthday? Did he even know today was his birthday? Had his kidnappers told him anything?

“Happy birthday my sweet, beautiful boy,” she whispered out into the night, the words immediately stolen by the loud bangs and crashes all around her. “I hope this is the last birthday you spend without your family.”

Once the display was over she headed back inside to join her husband. He was sitting at a desk pouring over the notes they’d made of the Moirai’s answers. They had not been as straightforward as they would have liked, but it was enough to start their search.

“You’re going to give yourself a headache if you keep glaring at the paper like that.” Adam sighed, leaning back in his chair and running a hand over his face. “I just want to make sense of it all. These clues are infuriatingly unhelpful.” Belle chuckled softly running a hand through his warm brown locks. “The name is a solid lead and a good place to start. Whilst we search the records for anyone by the name of Teach we can use all our resources to try and make sense of the rest. I’m sure FG will have a theory or two.” She pressed a tender kiss to his temple. “Don’t worry, Beastie, we’ve got this.” Adam pulled a face at the old nickname but drew her closer with a contented sigh.
“I know. You’re right.” Belle chuckled.
“I always am.”

Chapter Text

Ben dropped two trays of food on the table and sighed as he sat down for the first time all day. He enjoyed being chef at Ursula’s but it was hard work.

Harry grinned at him from across the table, pulling his tray towards him. It was his day off but he’d come into the restaurant anyway to keep Ben and Uma company on their breaks and to generally make a nuisance of himself. He was good at that.

“Hook! Get your feet off the table, I just wiped it down.” Harry rolled his eyes at Uma’s griping but did as she’d asked, making Ben chuckle.
“Always causing trouble,” he teased.
“It’s my speciality.”

“So,” Harry said, tone a bit too casual to be genuine, though what he could have to be stressed about, Ben didn’t know. “The fireworks are tonight.” Ben snorted, sending Harry an amused smirk. “Is that right? You know, you haven’t mentioned them in a few hours, I’d completely forgotten.” Harry’s face dropped into a scowl. “Oh, shut up!”

Every year, four days after Ben’s birthday, Auradon had a huge fireworks display. They’d never worked out what they were celebrating but for as long as Ben could remember he and Harry had sat up and watched them together.

They’d shared their first kiss under the bright illuminations, completely innocent and entirely unexpected; and here they were five years later. Whilst neither of them had ever actually acknowledged it, Ben privately considered it to be their anniversary.

It wasn’t like they had any other specific dates where they celebrated. They’d never officially asked each other to be boyfriends, or ever labelled their relationship at all. They’d never talked about the future or their commitment to one another.

Uma was forever telling them that it couldn’t possibly be healthy to be that relaxed about it, but Ben didn’t see why. He loved Harry and he knew without doubt that he would spend the rest of his life with him. He knew the other lad felt the same way so what was the point in overcomplicating it?

So what if they didn’t have an actual anniversary? It wasn’t like they could really celebrate it anyway. The general consensus was that love was for heroes. It was a weakness for the goody-two-shoes in Auradon. It had no place on the Isle.

If people were to find out that things between them were more than physical then they would make themselves targets and nothing was worth putting Harry at risk. Ben would die to protect him.

No, not having an official anniversary was not a bad thing.

So what if they didn’t call each other “boyfriend”? It was such a trivial word, it didn’t come close to representing all that Harry was to Ben, all the things Ben felt for him. It didn’t do justice to the importance of Harry’s presence in Ben’s life.

Harry was a part of him, he was the air Ben breathed, the blood in his veins, the beating of his heart. He was nothing without Harry.

No, Harry wasn’t Ben’s boyfriend. He was so much more than that.

So what if they didn’t have a plan for the future? It wasn’t like they were going anywhere. They lived on the Isle and they would die on the Isle. What they had now, surviving together and with their friends, was as good as it would ever get and Ben was more than content to do it for the rest of his life.

All he needed was Harry by his side holding his hand and his heart, Uma at the helm shouting orders, and Gil in the crows nest bubbly and bright without a care in the world.

No, they didn’t need a plan for the future.

“Ben?” Ben blinked, shaking his head from his thoughts as Harry watched him, eyebrows creased together with concern. Ben wanted to reach across and take his hand but the restaurant was pretty busy, anyone could see. He settled for gently rubbing his foot against his ankle instead.

“We watch them every year,” he teased, continuing the conversation as though he hadn’t completely zoned out. “I don’t know why you fret so much.” A beautiful blush stained Harry’s prominent cheekbones as he tried his hardest to look annoyed.
“Ye could have made other plans. I don’t know what ye get up to when I’m not around. I’m not yer keeper.”

Ben rolled his eyes at the dramatics. Harry was always around. The four of them had always been inseparable, even when they were small. Now more than ever they spent all their time together. They were a crew, a family. They needed each other.

“The only plans I ever have these days involve removing your boxers with my teeth.” A wicked smirk spread over Harry’s face.
“Well, ye are on yer lunch break. We do have time.” Ben chuckled, shaking his head.
“Not that much time.”

“What’s all this slacking off? You should be working!” Ben rolled his eyes affectionately as his father strode over, grinning.
“Relax, old man, I’m on lunch.” Blackbeard’s face dropped into a mock scowl at he pointed a finger at him in warning.
“Oi! Less of the ‘old’ you’re not too big to go over my knee.”

“He’d probably quite enjoy that,” Harry commented offhandedly. Ben kicked him under the table, cheeks flaming.

“Well, that was more information than I needed,” Blackbeard said, face scrunched up with utter disdain.
“It always is with those two,” Uma said drily, materialising from seemingly nowhere.

“How’s it going, Uncle B?” She asked as Blackbeard grinned down at her, putting an arm around her shoulder and pulling her into a side hug.
“Can’t complain my dear. Is your ma around? I gotta talk to her about something.” Uma nodded as she pulled away, thumb indicating over her shoulder. “She’s out the back.” With a smile Blackbeard patted her shoulder before heading off in search of Ursula.

Ben shot a glare at Harry but the dark-haired boy just grinned at him. “What?” He asked innocently.
“You’re an ass,” Ben told him, shaking his head. Harry only snorted.
“Am I wrong though?” He teased, causing Ben to blush even more.
“On so many levels.”

“I did try to warn you,” Uma said, shooting them an amused look as she started cleaning up the table next to theirs.
“Wait, what?” Harry cried, affronted.

“Oh, we had a lovely chat a few days after all this stared,” Uma said casually. Ben nodded along with faux seriousness.
“Oh yes, she warned me about you, tried to make me see sense.” Uma nodded solemnly.
“I did everything I could to save him but it was too late. Now look at him. A true tragedy.”

Harry gave an indignant huff as the pair laughed. “Fuck ye both,” He snarled.
“No thanks,” Uma said, pulling a face. At the same time, Ben responded
“Not in public.” There was a beat of silence before they all burst out laughing.

When Ben finished his shift a few hours later Harry was ready and waiting for him. Uma had already completed her day and was back at the ship, leaving the boys to walk back just the two of them.

It always made Ben chuckle. Even when the pair weren’t actively causing trouble people did their utmost to avoid them. They crossed the street and gave them a wide birth, children were pulled back out of the way by parents or older siblings. It was gratifying.

“Well, if it isn’t the sea queens.” The pair exchanged a look as Jay pushed off the wall and wandered over with a look that showed he was very proud of himself for that particular insult. “Aww, don’t be jealous Jay,” Harry drawled, casually leaning with his arm on Ben’s shoulder. “We pirates get all the booty.” Ben had to fight hard not to laugh at the ridiculous statement.

Deciding to ignore Harry completely, Jay turned to Ben. “Mal wants a word with you.” Ben snorted.
“That’s nice.” Jay’s expression soured.
“It would be in your best interest to hear her out, I assure you.” Ben highly doubted that.

“Well, little minion, you can tell Mal that if she wants to talk to me she can come find me herself.” He flashed his fangs and Jay took an involuntary step back causing a chuckle to rumble deep in Ben’s chest.

With a sneer, the two pirates started to walk away, but it seemed the thief wasn’t done just yet. “We know,” he said with a triumphant smirk. Ben shot Harry an uncertain look but he looked just as baffled by the statement. “About you two,” Jay elaborated, basking in their confusion. “I wonder what people would do with that information.”

Ben rolled his eyes at the implied threat. He turned to a bored-looking Harry and planted a kiss on his lips. Harry laughed as Ben pulled away, turning back to Jay who looked furious.

It was a bold and dangerous move and all three of them knew it, but Ben was hoping that if Mal’s crew were under the impression that they weren’t afraid of rumours they wouldn’t bother spreading them. It would be a waste of their time.

Anything to keep the seriousness of their situation out of the public domain.

“You’ll have to do better than that,” he said drily, putting on as much bravado as he could muster.

“So you’re a masochist and you have a death wish,” The thief mused. “That explains so much.”

Harry snorted, sending the long-haired boy a cocky smirk. “There’s nothing wrong with having a little fun, Jay. Ye should try it sometime, might loosen ye up a bit.” Jay glared in response.

“You don’t get to have it all,” he growled. “If the rest of us have to suffer the consequences of love then so do you. You’re not special.” Harry raised an eyebrow. “Careful. That sounds dangerously close to a confession.”

Jay visibly paled and Ben couldn’t decide whether or not to feel sorry for him. Loving on the Isle was hard, but that didn’t excuse him for making threats that put Harry in danger.

“You wouldn’t want anyone to get the wrong idea,” He put in, tone casual but his eyes filled with promise and threat. He would burn down the whole world to keep Harry safe.

Jay swallowed audibly before nodding his head. “I’ll pass on your message to Mal,” he muttered before slinking off. Ben was glad to see the back of him.

“What do ye think Mal wants?” Harry asked as they fell back into step.
“Don’t know, don’t care.” Ben shrugged. There was nothing she could offer him that would ever make him warm to her.

“Ye gonna tell Uma?” Ben sighed softly.
“Yeah, if Mal’s up to something she’s probably gonna be the one who it’s aimed at. She’ll appreciate the heads up.” Harry hummed.

The blue-eyed boy was grinning manically and Ben couldn’t help but laugh. “What are you smiling at? You look like a lunatic.” Harry winked at him. “Just never thought I’d see ye getting all smoochy in public.” Ben rolled his eyes.
“I was calling his bluff,” He huffed making Harry cackled.
“Ye totally wanna kiss me with everyone watching, stake yer claim.” Ben couldn’t help but feel a little warm under the collar at the thought.

“Don’t make me drag you down that alley and fuck you behind the dumpster like a cheap whore.” Harry’s eyes gleamed.
“Promises, promises.” Ben officially gave up.

When they reached the ship most of the crew were already back. They hung around aimlessly, most people were placing bets on a game of drop dead and Ben couldn’t help but snort. Anything to pass the time on a ship that couldn’t sale.

“There you are!” Uma called as she approached. “What took you two so long?” The boys exchanged a look before Ben sighed, running a hand through his hair. “We ran into Jay. Apparently, Mal wants to talk to me.” Uma raised an unimpressed eyebrow.
“Is that right?” Ben shrugged.
“He said it would be in my best interest to hear her out.” Uma hummed thoughtfully.

“And what did you tell him?” Ben laughed.
“That if she wants to talk that badly she can come find me herself. I’m not some lap dog who comes on command.” Harry smirked.
“Only my command,” he said teasingly causing Ben to flush scarlet and Uma to pull a look of genuine disgust.

“I’ll tell you what she’s up to if I hear anything,” Ben said, doing his best to ignore the laughing boy beside him. Uma nodded in agreement.
“If Mal’s making moves we’ll know about it soon enough. She loves to gloat.” Ben nodded his agreement. Mal was always all too eager to tell everyone about how brilliantly evil she was. Usually to her own detriment.

“Oh, ye’ll probably hear some wonderful rumours about how we’re madly in love too,” Harry added, casually indicating between Ben and himself.
“Rumours?” Uma repeated drily, the corner of her mouth twitching. The whole crew had been hiding that particular secret for years.

“Apparently Mal and her minions ‘know’ about us,” Ben said. “Not exactly sure what they know, Jay was a bit vague with details, but he did try to threaten us with it so I’m assuming they know the truth.”

Uma’s posture had stiffened and she’d straightened up to her full height. “No one will lay a hand on either of you, regardless of what Mal thinks she knows.” Her expression was firm and allowed no room for argument.

This was Uma at her strongest, her most powerful. This was why Uma was their captain. She would die for any one of them.

Once you joined the crew of the Lost Revenge you joined a family, they all looked out for each other unquestioningly and would do anything to protect each other. At the heart of it all was Uma, and her desire to help those who needed it, those with no one. She had a big heart and she wore it like armour.

“We know,” Harry said, squeezing her shoulder.
“No one messes with the crew of the Lost Revenge and gets away with it,” Ben agreed, flashing her a fang-filled smile. She chuckled, relaxing just a little.

The evening had turned cool by the time the fireworks began to light the sky. Most of the gathered pirates wrapped up in threadbare blankets and sweaters with more patches than original material.

The constant cloud cover that plagued the barrier often made it difficult to see the sky beyond but not even that could block the nights illuminations from view.

Ben and Harry sat together on the bow, soft sea breeze ruffling their hair as they watched the sky. Their sides were pressed firmly together from head to toe, for body warmth if anyone dared to ask. Ben absent-mindedly played with Harry’s fingers whilst Harry had his head resting on Ben’s shoulder.

Despite the other crew members scattered around the ship, moments like this always felt like it was just the two of them. Like they were completely alone in the world. Ben relished it.

He pressed a kiss to the top of Harry’s head as the fireworks cracked and whizzed high above them. The other boy smiled contently at the contact.

“I think it’s about the barrier,” he said randomly, causing Ben to frown.
“What is?” Harry waved his hook vaguely up at the sky.
“This. I think they’re celebrating the barrier. I’m pretty sure it went up around this time of year.” Ben hummed thoughtfully before shrugging.
“Wouldn’t put it past them. It’s not like Boradon’s gonna have anything more exciting to celebrate.”

Harry chuckled, lazily grinning up at him. “Who needs them anyway? Life under here might be hard but it’s far more interesting.” Ben grinned, leaning down and pecking his lips. “Life anywhere is perfect as long as I’m with you.”

Harry snorted, sending him a smirk that was equal parts pleased and mischievous. “Wow, Beastie, I didn’t realise ye were such a sap. There are less sickening ways to get into my pants ye know.” Ben rolled his eyes and instead of taking the bait, just leant down and kissed Harry again. This time it was firmer and more passionate and Harry promptly melted against him.

Despite his teasing, he was just as gone on Ben as Ben was on him and they both knew it.

“No fucking on the deck!” Uma called. They both flipped her off, pulling away from each other with laughter on their lips.
“Jealousy doesn’t suit ye!” Harry called back causing Ben to laugh harder and Uma to throw a potato at them. It narrowly missed them, going straight overboard. “That’s a waste of food!” Ben called cheekily gaining a glare from the turquoise-haired sea witch.

“Introducing you two was the biggest mistake I ever made,” she muttered, causing laughter from all around and a few calls of agreement.
“You got that right.”
“Not wrong there Captain!”

They could all kindly fuck off.

Whilst Uma had technically introduced them back when they were kids— she’d excitedly exclaimed to Harry and Gil that Ben was a real pirate and could show them the ropes. Harry had not been impressed by the statement, given his heritage, and the whole thing had very nearly ended in a fistfight— Ben couldn’t help but feel like their meeting was inevitable. The Isle wasn’t huge and since Ben was convinced that they were meant to be together, he was also convinced that one way or another it would have happened. Nothing could stop what they have.

They ended up sitting there much later than they’d planned, hours after the fireworks display had ended and the others had gone to bed. They just enjoyed each other’s company and neither was quite ready to call it a night. Even if they were only sitting there in comfortable silence.

The sun was just starting to peak over the horizon when Harry finally spoke again. “Five years,” he muttered in awe. “I can’t believe it.” Ben chuckled softly, smiling at him warmly. “I know,” he agreed.

He often struggled to put his feelings into words because they were simply too great and no words could do them justice. They were overwhelming, all-encompassing, an integral part of his very core. Harry was his everything, a part of him as well as the owner of his heart. To be with him, to love him, it was as easy as breathing and that sometimes made it easy to forget the enormity of it.

“I don’t think I know anyone who’s been with someone as long as we have,” Harry said, expression thoughtful. “It’s got to be some sort of record.” Ben chucked softly, unable to stop himself from smiling at the thought. “Well, there could be plenty of secret relationships,” he reasoned.
“I s’pose,” Harry frowned. “But I don’t think it’s very likely. Most people here aren’t capable.”
“Everyone’s capable if they allow themselves to be.”

Harry stared at him for a long moment before leaning in and kissing him, slow and intimate. He pulled back just enough to speak, their lips still brushing with each word. “More fool them for not allowing such strength into their lives.”

Ben smiled crookedly, nuzzling his nose against Harry’s. “You really believe that?” He asked quietly.
“I do,” Harry said, eyes serious. “Ye make me stronger. Ye give me a reason to fight, to keep going. Ye make surviving this hell hole every day worth it.”

Ben didn’t know what to say. He felt it all and so much more, agreed with every word. He would sooner die than lose the other boy. He just hoped Harry knew all that despite Ben’s lack of eloquence.

With no other options, Ben leaned forward and kissed Harry hard. “It’s you and me forever, Hook.” Harry chuckled softly, smiling at him all soft and fond and entirely un-Harry-like.

For once he wasn’t the chaotic, manic, pirate. He was just a nineteen-year-old guy sitting with the guy he loved talking about feelings. It was a rare occurrence and Ben was always grateful that he was the person who got to see it. To see the real Harry. The one no one else would ever see.

“Come on,” Ben said, getting to his feet and offering Harry a hand. “We should at least get in a few hours of sleep. Uma will only bitch us out for slacking off from exhaustion.” Harry chuckled, taking Ben’s hand and allowing himself to be pulled up.
“Worth it.”

Chapter Text

As soon as the King and Queen had gotten back from Olympus they’d called a meeting with Fairy Godmother. The sooner they got the wheels in motion the better.

They had come no closer to deciphering the location clue on the drive home and both rulers had become increasingly frustrated by the situation. They were both hoping that having fresh insight would help.

“How did it go?” Fairy Godmother asked, hands ringing nervously as her eyes darted between the pair.
“You were right about the fates being tricky,” Belle sighed, taking a seat. She felt incredibly weary after the events of the last few days. “But we did get some answers.”
“We just need to figure out what they mean,” Adam said bitterly.

He was less than thrilled by the opaque nature of the Moirai’s answers and their apparent lack of willingness to help them.

“Well, what did they say?” Fairy Godmother asked, taking a seat herself. She glanced between them expectantly.

Belle reached for the chain around her neck and showed it to the fairy woman. “They enchanted this so that it will react when it comes into contact with Benjamin, its true owner.” Fairy Godmother nodded, relaxing just a little.
“And he currently goes by the name Teach. Benjamin Teach.” Adam supplied, turning to stare out of the window at the city. His shoulders were drawn tightly together with the tension.

“What of the third answer?” Fairy Godmother asked after a moment of silence. “Where is the prince?”

Belle opened her mouth to explain but Adam beat her to it. “He has ‘found a home for his heart among the sea scavengers’.” Adam’s tone was filled with frustrated loathing. Fairy Godmother frowned. “I see,” she said, eyebrows drawing together with thought.
“Do you?” Adam asked pointedly. “Because we can’t make head nor tail out of it.” Belle shot him a look but he ignored her.

Fairy Godmother didn’t react, still deep in thought. “Perhaps it means he is on the coast.” She said after a moment. “Gulls are considered scavengers and they are found by the sea.” The royal couple exchanged a look. Could it really be that simple?

“I think our best option is to focus on the name Teach before we start dwelling too deeply on what sea scavengers are. I can’t imagine it’s a particularly common name,” Belle reasoned. Fairy Godmother nodded her agreement.
“Yes, if need be we can always use the ‘sea scavengers’ as a way of narrowing down the results.” They exchanged grateful smiles, glad to have some sort of plan.

“I’ll have the record keepers start searching right away,” Fairy Godmother said, getting to her feet.
“Make sure this is their top priority,” the king ordered. “We will not stop until Benjamin is found, no matter what it takes.” Fairy Godmother nodded vigorously. “Whatever it takes,” she agreed.

Despite their best efforts, the records provided nothing of note. It was a source of great frustration given the difficulty they were having deciphering the clue of the prince’s location.

“It seems there is no record of anyone by the name of Teach anywhere in Auradon,” Fairy Godmother sighed. She hated being the bearer of bad news, especially given the king’s often unpredictable temper. “How can that be?” Belle frowned, fingers templeing under her chin. Fairy Godmother could only shrug. “They have gone back even before the union of the kingdoms and there is nothing.”

Adam’s knuckles were turning white with how hard he was clenching them into fists. “What do we do now?” He asked. They had to make a new plan. “I guess we have no choice but to figure out what sea scavengers are,” Belle sighed, rubbing tiredly at her eyes.

“Fairy Godmother, you mentioned gulls? So it’s likely he’s in a coastal kingdom.” The fairy nodded.
“Well, the term in general I think implies a close connection to the sea. There are several fish species and crustaceans that would also be considered scavengers. Perhaps it’s a reference to Triton’s kingdom, that would explain the lack of records.”

Belle frowned. “Surely not. He’d never survive underwater like that. He’s human.” Adam sighed.
“We don’t know what’s been done to him. Triton’s people have and use magic in ways we can’t possibly imagine. Who knows what they’re capable of.”

An uncomfortable silence fell over the table as the reality of the situation set in.

They truly had no idea what to expect. Twenty years was a long time, anything could have happened to Benjamin. 

“So… we send word to Triton, see if they can help?” Belle asked, desperate to focus on something before she could spiral.
“We need to do more than that,” Adam declared, a distant look in his eye. “We need to send out an official decree. We’ll take a tour of the coast, hell, we'll visit every kingdom in Auradon if need be. All boys of the right age will report for inspection. We will find him.” Fairy Godmother was nodding enthusiastically. “I’ll start the planning today.”

“This is going to be a lot of work,” Belle said. “It could take months. Perhaps it would be worth enlisting help from the other heads of state?” Adam frowned. “It will be worth it when our son is returned to us. Though you do make a good point. We will need lists of all the citizens from each kingdom that fit the criteria. It makes sense to delegate that task to each kingdom’s rulers.” Belle wasn’t sure how he was managing to be so pragmatic about all this.

“I’ll call a council meeting,” Adam said decidedly. "The sooner we can get this underway the better it’ll be for everyone. Young Benjamin has been away from home long enough.”

With that, the meeting came to an end and Belle was once again left to her own devices. Her husband still had a kingdom to run and Fairy Godmother a school. Belle had nothing.

She found herself aimlessly wandering the castle halls passing empty room after empty room. She had always dreamed of being a mom. Of filling the halls with laughter and excitement and fun as the children ran amok. That chance had been stolen from her and they had never managed to conceive again.

Adam had thrown himself into his role as king and Belle had become a figurehead, a token advisor who had no real power and nothing to her name.

She’d had so many plans when she was young. So much she wanted to do and see and achieve. What had happened to her? What would her younger self think if she saw the her of today? Nothing good, that much she was sure of.

She paused outside the door to what was once Benjamin’s nursery. She hadn’t been in that room for a long time, no one had.

She slowly pushed the door open causing a large plume of dust to waft up into the air. She coughed loudly, waving a hand in front of her face with a frown. It was thick and it covered every surface. Like a tomb.

She stepped further into the room and looked over all the unused furniture. It filled her with the all too familiar grief of her loss, but now it was mixed with a slither of hope. She continued looking over the room, the large bay windows that were covered in grime, the beautiful old fireplace that had never been lit, the balcony at the far end that looked over the gardens. It was a beautiful room with so much potential.

A spark of excitement filled her as it occurred to her that Benjamin was going to need a room once they found him. A proper, adult room.

She should redecorate. She should clean up and get rid of all the baby furniture, and make the room as personal as possible for him. It was still his room and still his home even if he hadn’t had the chance to live in it yet.

Yes. That would be good for him. His own, personal space whilst he adjusted to life in the castle. It would give her something to focus on too, some way of helping.

That settled it. She would do it.

She looked around the room with a smile, design ideas filling her mind as the endless possibilities of her son swam before her eyes. She had to remind herself to keep it simple, he’d probably want to redecorate, to personalise it further once he’d settled in.

She frowned down at her pumps, now completely covered in dust. First things first, she’d need to change into something she didn’t mind getting dirty. Then it was time to give the place a thorough clean.

“Ben, my boy!” He smiled as Blackbeard greeted him with a warm smile behind his bushy beard, now threaded with grey amongst its namesake colour. “Hey Dad,” the young pirate greeted. His father slapped him across the back companionably— that was about as close to showing affection anyone got on the Isle.

He was pretty sure he was the only young villain on the entire island who didn’t fear and despise his parents.

He’d never met his mother and had never felt the urge to ask about her. If she didn’t want to be in his life then he didn’t want her in it, he didn’t need her, and if something tragic had befallen her before he could remember then he didn’t want to traumatise his father by making him retell the story.

They’d more than managed. His father had, as far as Ben was concerned, done a good job of raising him, even on his own. He’d been firm but fair, he’d been caring and taught him well. They had a good relationship and the great captain had a good relationship with all of Ben’s friends too. They’d all taken to calling him Uncle at a young age and it had stuck to this day.

“Finally reconsidered my offer?” The pirate asked, a teasing lilt to his tone. Ben chuckled, shaking his head.
“Izzy would have my head if I dared to take his job.” Blackbeard sent him a crooked grin.
“He’s been a good first mate for a long time, but we’ve all got to give way to the next generation eventually.”

Ben raised an eyebrow. “This your way of saying you’re retiring as captain?” Blackbeard smirked.
“Why, you want the job?” Ben rolled his eyes.
“You know I don’t.” Blackbeard sighed softly.
“I know. I just miss having you around here.”

Ben sent him a soft smile. “We’re only a little way along the docks you know. You can visit any time.” Blackbeard chuckled.
“I know. But it’s not the same as having all you whipper-snappers running around causing trouble.” Ben laughed.
“We’re always causing trouble.”
“Yeah, I can believe that.”

He frowned slightly as he pulled at the neck of Ben’s jacket. Ben knew exactly what he’d see there and he had to fight the urge to laugh.

His dad had never been a prude and he’d been very thorough in his preparation of Ben for the world of physical relationships, with both women and men, so it was odd seeing him so put out by a hickey of all things.

“You need to be more careful,” he warned as he retracted his hand. “There are rumours floating around about you that could lead to trouble.” Ben raised an eyebrow. “Since when do you pay attention to rumours?”
“Since they pertain to my son,” he huffed. “I mean it Ben, be careful. That shit’ll get ya killed.” Ben nodded, sobering slightly.

“What are they saying?” He asked, carefully. Blackbeard sighed.
“That you and Harry Hook are in a relationship and have been for quite some time. That you’re in love with each other.” Ben’s eyes widened in what he hoped was an appropriate look of surprise. “Is that right? Wow, people are full of shit.”

Blackbeard sent him a stern look. “Don’t think you can lie to me, boy. I know it’s true.” Ben felt a wave of genuine panic wash over him as his whole body stiffened. Blackbeard sighed softly. “I’m not mad or anything,” he explained. “I understand what it is to be young and in love. I just wish you’d told me.” Ben felt his cheeks heat up at the thought.

“How’d you find out?” He asked tentatively, suddenly nervous they’d been more obvious than either of them had ever meant to be. Blackbeard rolled his eyes. “You two weren’t exactly subtle. Sneaking about here at all hours, acting all giggly and affectionate, how jumpy you were whenever someone walked into the room after you’d been left alone for five minutes. I’m not an idiot you know.” Ben could feel the colour in his cheeks darkening at the implications.

“You really don’t care?” Blackbeard shook his head.
“‘Course I don’t. The idiots ‘round here only hate love so much because it managed to break all their dumb curses and spells. They relied too much on magic to get what they wanted and they paid the price. It’s not the fault of love, it’s their own laziness that brought about their downfall.” Ben chuckled, that was most definitely a very unpopular opinion.

“Careful now,” he teased. “You’ll be inciting an uprising talking like that.” Blackbeard sent him a wicked grin.
“That’s the pirate’s life for ya. Teaches you a thing or two about putting in the work to get what you want. Fighting the oppressors face to face.” Ben chuckled, nodding along enthusiastically. He’d always dreamed of a life of freedom and adventure on the high seas.

“You sure you don’t want to come back as my first mate?” Ben sent him a smile.
“Dad, I have a crew. I won’t abandon them.” Blackbeard waved him off.
“I know you do. You’re loyal to a fault, I’ll give you that. Though I suspect you have other motives too.” He raised an amused eyebrow and Ben blushed.

“Just don’t forget the option’s always there should you need it. You’ll always have a home here with your old man.” Ben smiled warmly, relaxing a little. “Thanks, Dad.”

“Captain,” a voice called from the crow’s nest. “We’ve got company.” The pair exchanged a look before heading straight to the dock-side balustrade.

Staring up at them with her signature smirk and purple hair was Mal. She looked incredibly pleased with herself and it made Ben’s skin crawl.

“I heard you’d be here,” she called up companionably causing Ben to roll his eyes.
“What do you want, Mal?” She chuckled.
“Who says I want anything?” She returned causing Ben to grit his teeth. He hated playing her games.
“You’re here,” he said flatly. “Either tell me what you want or get lost.” She laughed again before shrugging.
“All right, you’ve got me. I want to talk.”

Ben had no interest in hearing her out but he knew Uma would have his head if he didn’t. It could turn up something useful. With a sigh, he headed down the gangplank to meet her on the wharf.

“Let’s take a walk,” she said, already starting to move away from the docked ships.
“Why? Scared someone might see you in Uma’s territory and take offence to your face?” Mal just sneered.
“Trust me when I say we don’t need any extra ears listening.” Ben rolled his eyes but followed her anyway.

“Well?” He asked once they’d stopped down a dead end side alley that was deserted save for a few rats.
“Carlos has been playing around, you know how he likes to invent things.” Ben pursed his lips and said nothing. The sooner she said what she needed to, the sooner he could leave.

When he didn’t bite she pouted. “Aww, come on Benny. Don’t you want to know what Carlos has been up to?” Ben rolled his eyes.
“Don’t you want to get to the point?” He returned dryly. She dropped the pout with a huff, hand on her waist.
“He might have found a way off the island.”

Ben stared at her for a long moment waiting for the punchline. This had to be a joke.

“Well, I was expecting a bit more of a reaction than that,” she said, inspecting her nails.
“You’re serious?” He asked, disbelief clear in his tone.
“Deadly.”

“How in the name of all that is evil has DeVil managed to invent something that can beat Fairy Godmother’s magic?” Mal gave a shrug.
“He’s always had a flare for science.”

“Well, how does it work?” Mal gave an unladylike snort.
“You don’t actually think I’m stupid enough to tell you that, do you?” Ben rolled his eyes.
“I thought we were sharing.”

Mal laughed, flipping her purple locks over her shoulder in an attempt to appear nonchalant. “The second I tell you how it works, you’ll be running off to tell all your pirate buddies and trying to steal it.”

Ben’s eyes narrowed slightly as he watched her. “So why tell me at all?” He asked. Surely she wasn’t just here to gloat.
“I wanted to know if you were interested in coming with us when we make a break for it.” Ben frowned. Why on earth would she offer him that? What did she want?

“What’s the catch?” Mal gave a small shrug, still smirking at him like the cat that got the cream.
“Well, the invite is just for you. Not your little crew mates.” Ben rolled his eyes. He’d figured that much.

“And?”
“You join my crew. You help us take over Auradon.” Ben snorted.
“What? Don’t think you can do it just the four of you? Need a little help?”

Mal’s eyes narrowed dangerously. “I’m offering you a chance at freedom,” she said shortly. Words clipped with her annoyance. “You’d be an idiot not to take it.”

Ben crossed his arms over his chest. “Why?” He asked.
“You’re the son of the greatest pirate to sail the seven seas; a great strategist and an excellent fighter. I think you’d be a real asset to our hostile takeover. I’m also rather fond of your pretty face.”

She ran a finger along his jawline with a smirk. “We could have some real fun together.” Ben rolled his eyes as her finger made its way down his neck, stopping on the spot where the hickey sat. “Though I guess you don’t have any problems in that department.”

“If you’re so sure your little escape plan will work, why not let everyone out? You’d have a much better chance at a hostile takeover with the whole Isle on your side.” Mal rolled her eyes.
“I’m not an idiot. There’s no way any of our parent’s generation would willingly follow me or take any of us seriously. They’d just argue among themselves and try to be in charge of it all. It would be chaos and not the fun kind.” He had to give her that.

“You have to know I wouldn’t go anywhere with you without the others.” He said after a moment.
“Well, a girl can dream.” She sighed, looking up at him through her eyelashes. “But you have to know there’s no way we can get you, me and my three, plus an entire crew of pirates out of here and around Auradon unnoticed.” Ben pursed his lips as he considered that. Again, she had a point.

“Okay, maybe you’re right. But eight of us could do it and would have more chance than five of us.” She raised an eyebrow.
“Eight?” She repeated.
“Eight. You, Jay, Evie and Carlos. Me, Uma, Harry and Gil.” Mal rolled her eyes.
“Gil. Really?” Ben refused to budge.
“He’s loyal, trustworthy and strong. We’ll need him.”

Mal exhaled heavily through her nose as she thought it over. “Fine. The eight of us.” Ben nodded proud of himself.
“I’ll talk to Uma. Get back to you.”

Mal groaned letting her head hang back. “Really? You gotta get permission from Shrimpy to leave this damn place?” Ben growled at the insulting nickname. “Captain gets the final say,” he said through gritted teeth, his fangs on display and his hand flexing on the hilt of his sword. “And if you call her that again in my presence you won’t live long enough to leave this hell hole.”

Mal didn’t even flinch though she eyed his teeth wearily. “Settle down, Fido. We’re all friends here.” Ben laughed dryly.
“Let’s make one thing very clear. We will never be friends. We just need each other.” Mal’s body stiffened minutely but she gave a single nod.
“Fine. You have twenty-four hours to decide.”

With that she spun on her heels, walking off down the ally and leaving him where he stood still feeling a little blind sided by the conversation.

Chapter Text

When Ben returned to the Lost Revenge the deck was mostly empty, most people were still out and about making the most of their day. He couldn’t help but swear in frustration, kicking out at an empty crate that sat abandoned. He needed to talk to the others ASAP.

“Ben?” He glanced up to find Gil had emerged from below deck and was looking at him nervously.
“Gil! Thank god. Are Harry and Uma back yet?” The blonde boy shook his head.
“No, they’re still at Ursula’s. I think they should finish soon though.” Ben sighed and nodded, dropping down onto an empty barrel.

“Is everything okay?” Gil asked, his eyes wide and genuine as he sat down beside Ben.
“Yeah, I just need to talk to you guys. Something’s happened.” Gil frowned, his expression pinched and sad.

“Is this about the rumours?” Ben glanced at him surprised.
“You’ve heard them?” Gil nodded solemnly.
“If it makes you feel any better, I don’t think anyone believes it. As far as most people are concerned you and Harry are too crazy and vicious to do something as good as fall in love.” Ben couldn’t help but relax just a little.
“Well, that’s something.” He sighed with relief.

“But no, it’s not about that. I’ll explain once Uma and Harry get back so I don’t have to repeat myself.”
“Explain what?”

The pair glanced around to find the two pirates making their way onto the deck. Ben was immediately on his feet. “We need to talk,” He said seriously, causing them both to frown. “My quarters,” Uma said simply and they were all immediately making their way below deck.

“What’s going on?” Harry asked as soon as the door had closed behind them.
“I know what Mal’s up to.” They all immediately fell silent, staring at him with wide eyes.

He quickly explained the conversation with Mal, Carlos’s invention, their plan to use it to escape, and how he negotiated for all of them to get off the island with them.

Gil’s eyes were wide with excitement and Harry’s were filled with surprise and intrigue. Uma’s expression was characteristically blank as she went over it all in her head, analysing the information from all angles.

“So let me get this straight,” Harry said, playing absent-mindedly with his hook. “Mal wants to get off the island and take over Auradon and she wants our help to do it?” Ben’s mouth twitched at the corner.
“Well, she wanted my help, I just made it clear we came as a package deal.” Harry rolled his eyes, waving his hand dismissively.
“Same difference.”

Uma shook her head. “I’d say it was a big difference. She wants to get him alone because she wants to do him. I think having the rest of us there makes that kinda difficult.” Ben pulled a face that made Gil giggle.
“Well, she can want all she likes.” Harry said with a dismissive shrug. “Doesn’t mean she’s gonna get it.”

“Can we focus please?” Ben said with a pointed look. All this talk of Mal’s desire for him was making him feel itchy and uncomfortable.

“Do we know what this invention of DeVil’s is?” Uma asked. Ben shook his head.
“No, she wouldn’t give me any details. We can’t steal it and run off without them if we don’t know what it is or how it works.” Uma’s eyes narrowed with annoyance but she nodded. “Makes sense,” she muttered, clearly unhappy about it.

“So what do we think?” Ben asked.
“I think it sounds too good to be true,” Harry said, arms crossed over his chest. Uma nodded slowly, still thinking.

“What about the rest of the crew?” Gil asked. “Would we come back for them?” Ben shrugged.
“Once we’ve helped them take over Boradon we could do what we want.” Harry’s expression turned wistful.
“Undock the ship and sail away,” he murmured making Ben smile. That had always been the dream.

“I don’t trust Mal,” Uma said decisively. “She’d never just agree to let us out with her.” Ben shrugged.
“Maybe we should try and meet up, all of us. You can ask the questions you want yourself, and see what you think.” They all trusted Uma and her judgement above all else.

She nodded slowly, tapping her fingers on the table meditatively. “All right, we’ll meet. We’ll ask our questions, and figure out exactly what is going on here and what that idiot fairy wants from us. We’ll hold off on making a decision until we have all the information.” The three boys nodded in agreement. “I’ll set it up,” Ben said.

“Right, if we’re done here you three can leave. I need to wash off the smell of greasy fries.”

The boys were quick to file out and Ben wasn’t the slightest bit surprised when he felt Harry’s hand grip around his wrist. He’d almost expected it after that conversation.

He let the taller lad drag him down the hall a little way before he felt himself being pinned against the wall. He could feel Harry’s breath on his skin and his body pressed up the length of his own. It was intoxicating.

“That little witch thinks she can bat her eyelashes and take what’s mine,” he growled. The sound seemed to emanate from deep in his chest. Ben could feel the cool metal of Harry’s hook under his chin, forcing his head up so that he was looking into his ocean eyes. Right now they were a dark, dangerous storm. Ben shuddered.

“But she can’t always have her own way now, can she, Beastie?” Ben shook his head, barely daring to breathe.
“No.” Harry’s eyes sharpened slightly as a wicked smirk took over his face.
“No,” he agreed. “Because ye’re mine.”

He captured Ben’s lips, rough and domineering. He was fierce and unyielding as he staked his claim.

Ben was putty in his hands, weak in the knees and utterly helpless. His hands found purchase on Harry’s shoulders and it was all he could do to hold on tight and stay upright.

He could feel the tension running through Harry and it spurred them both on. Fuelled by the same desire, the same need, the same wanting. The desperate ache of two souls entwined but unable to be so.

A throat-clearing nearby announced that they were no longer alone. Harry slowly pulled back, lips lingering as though it physically pained him to do so. “What do ye want Jonas?” He growled, not bothering to hide his irritation.
“Uh, sorry to… interrupt.” He said, clearly uncomfortable. “But your dads are here.”

Harry stepped back and the pair exchanged a surprised look before Harry was heading straight for the stairs. Ben hesitated a moment before following.

“Get Uma on deck ASAP.” He muttered to Jonas on his way past. Interactions between Harry and his father, no matter how small, always ended in disaster. He was going to need backup to mediate this.

Despite having been pre-warned, it was a surreal moment coming to the ship’s entrance to find his father standing on the docks side by side with Captain Hook. The pair, generally speaking, hated each other’s guts.

Hook hated that Blackbeard was considered a more fearsome pirate and Blackbeard thought Hook was an embarrassment to the whole pirate profession, wasting his time chasing an irritating child that consistently outsmarted him instead of pillaging and fighting and, well, being a pirate.

“What do you want?” Ben called as Harry stood statue-still beside him, hands clenched into fists. It took all Ben’s strength not to reach out to him. “Permission to come aboard?” Blackbeard called, glancing at him expectantly.
“Captain’s call I’m afraid,” He called back.

Normally there would be no question of letting his dad up, but his present company brought about too many questions. Something was obviously going on and it was very unlikely to be good.

“When the captain’s away I believe it falls to the first mate to make the decision,” Hook called dryly, eyes sparkling with amusement. He loved that Harry had a higher rank than the son of the great Blackbeard. “The captain will be up shortly,” Harry said stiffly before taking a slight step back.

“You okay?” Ben asked softly, not wanting anyone to overhear them. Harry just gave a single, curt nod in response. Ben was fully aware that meant he was full of shit, but now wasn’t the time to deal with it.

“Well, well, well. Captains Blackbeard and Hook. To what do we owe the honour?” Uma’s voice boomed out, low and commanding and heavy with sarcasm. “Let us aboard so we may talk and you’ll find out, my dear,” Hook said, smooth as a snake.
“Trust me, it’s important,” Blackbeard added, expression serious.

Uma considered his words a long, tense moment. “I do trust you Uncle B. Your company on the other hand.” Hook rolled his eyes and Blackbeard sighed. “He’ll behave. I’ll make sure of it.”

Hook looked genuinely insulted at the implication that Blackbeard could control him but they all knew that no one defied him and lived.

“Fine,” Uma said, waving them up. “Permission granted.”

They reached the deck and Blackbeard pulled out what appeared to be a rolled-up poster similar to the Auradon propaganda ones that often got put up displaying the king imploring them all to be good. Ben couldn’t help but wonder what it said if it had managed to work the two men up into such a fuss.

“Have you seen this?” Blackbeard asked, without preamble. Uma took the poster and unrolled it, eyes scanning the words, her eyebrows drawing together. “When did these go up?” She asked, tone concerned.
“No more than an hour ago.” Hook had a malicious glint in his eyes that said he was scheming. Ben had an uncomfortable knotting sensation in his gut.

Wordlessly Uma handed the poster to Harry and Ben immediately started reading over his shoulder.

By Royal decree, all male residents of The Isle of the Lost aged between nineteen and twenty-one years of age are to report to the main square at nine hundred hours for inspection. No exceptions will be made and failure to comply will result in punishment.

Harry snorted, shaking his head. “Really? How do they intend to punish us? We live on a prison island that’s made up solely of their scraps.” It was a valid point.

“What do you think they’re inspecting us for?” Ben said with a frown.
“We don’t know,” Blackbeard said, visibly concerned. “But it’s too specific to be anything good. Experiments or something most likely.”

Hook snorted, shaking his head. “I’m telling you, it’s to do with the prince!” Blackbeard rolled his eyes.
“The prince is dead,” He argued.
“Clearly the crown disagrees,” Hook snapped back.

“What makes you think it’s got anything to do with the prince?” Uma asked, regarding him thoughtfully.
“As Blackbeard said, it’s too specific. The prince disappeared about twenty years ago now, we all know it’s why they decided to build this damn dome even if they won’t admit it. It fits the age group they’re looking for. For whatever reason they think he’s here and they’re looking for him. They’ll be looking for a birthmark or something.” When he put it like that, it didn’t sound quite so crazy.

“Why would the prince be here?” Gil frowned, he always reminded Ben of a kicked puppy when he did anything other than smile.
“Who knows? Maybe they think one of us stole him away back then and kept him. The point is, they’re searching and we need to find out what it is they’re looking for.”

Blackbeard looked close to smacking Hook and it had Ben fighting hard not to laugh, he couldn’t resist stoking the fire just a little more. “What villain would be stupid enough to keep him? If you’re gonna kidnap the prince then you ransom him back, surely?” Harry shrugged.
“Depends on the motive. A lotta people would’a’ wanted revenge.” Ben considered this.
“Then you kill him and send him back to his parents in pieces,” he reasoned.
“There is a certain level of ongoing torture in the not knowing what happened,” Uma mused.

“This is ridiculous!” Blackbeard groaned, shaking his head. “All this speculation is going to get us nowhere. The only thing we know is that they’re performing an inspection. I don’t want you going,” He said firmly to Ben. “It’s not safe and it’s not worth it.” Ben was touched.

Hook rolled his eyes at the sentiment. “Harry yer going.” Harry blinked in disbelief, affronted that Hook was telling him what to do. “I’m gonna find out what it is they’re looking for and then we’ll replicate it on you. Let ‘em think you’re the prince then when you get over to Auradon you can bring down the barrier and free us all so I can have my revenge on that blasted Pan.” Ben rolled his eyes. Of course that was all Hook cared about.

“Just like that,” Harry said dryly, sneering at his father. Hook rolled his eyes.
“Anyone with half a brain knows Fairy Godmother’s wand is the only thing that’ll bring this thing down. I’m sure you can figure something out.” Harry glared and Ben’s hands clenched into fists at his side. God he hated James Hook with a passion.

“We’ll discuss this further as a crew,” Uma announced, sensing the growing tensions. Blackbeard nodded but Hook sneered.
“That’s it?” He growled.
“What were you expecting?” Uma asked dryly. “A ‘thank you’?” Hook’s expression soured as Uma sent him a wry smile and gave a dismissive wave.

Hook looked like he wanted to argue but Blackbeard’s large hand came down on his shoulder and gripped tightly. “We’ll be off,” He said firmly before heading back to the gangplank, forcing Hook to move with him. Ben couldn’t help but laugh at the sight.

His laughter quickly died when he saw the tension in Harry’s shoulders.

He carefully placed a hand on Harry’s arm to get his attention. He turned stiffly to face Ben who simply indicated with his head that they take a walk. He gave a single nod, eyes so drained of colour they were almost grey. He was barely keeping it together and Ben couldn’t let the inevitable chaos of the fallout come free on the ship.

He sent a look at Uma and she gave a nod. She knew what was coming as well as he did and it wouldn’t be pretty.

The pair walked silently to the edge of the town and kept going.

Few people strayed outside of the inhabited part of the Isle and no one knew what lay in the mists beyond the forest. Parents warned their children away and people told horror stories of supposed friends who’d never returned from its clutches, but it was all hearsay and guesswork.

They ventured a little way into the forest until Harry came to an abrupt stop. Ben stopped a few steps behind him and waited. Harry released a noise that was pure, unfiltered rage. A war cry of anguish, frustration and trauma.

Faster than Ben’s eyes could adjust to see Harry pulled his sword from its scabbard and slashed aimlessly at the tree nearest to him. Ben watched silently as he lashed out over and over, bark and wood flying all over the place and he hacked and sliced blindly, screaming his rage out into the world.

Ben always felt bad that he couldn’t empathise with Harry’s pain the way everyone else on the Isle seemed to. But he knew what a big deal it was to be allowed to see it, to be trusted to witness these moments. He was honoured, and if all he could do was stand watch and wait then so be it.

Slowly Harry lost steam, his swings began to lose their strength and fewer and fewer came until he was just standing still. His chest heaved with the exertion and sweat dripped from his brow as he glared at what was left of the poor tree, his teeth clenched tightly together.

His grip went slack and his sword dropped to the forest floor. Within seconds Harry was following its path, falling to his knees in the dirt. Ben took that as his cue.

He dropped down beside Harry and pulled him into him, holding him tight against his chest as he trembled. “That bastard,” he hissed mournfully. Ben didn’t say a word, just held him tighter.

Harry didn’t cry, but Ben couldn’t help but think this was worse. He felt like he was going to vibrate apart in his arms. His breathing was ragged and uneven and he clung to Ben like he was the only thing keeping him grounded.

Ben played with the hair at the nape of Harry’s neck, something he knew the other boy found soothing, and gently pressed his cheek against the top of his head. All he could do was hold on and wait it out.

“I’ll kill him,” he said quietly once Harry had calmed down, his breathing returning to normal. Harry gave a choked laugh.
“Right, because having Harriet in charge of the Roger is such a good idea.” Ben chuckled softly.
“She’s all bark and no bite, we’d be able to walk all over her.”

He felt the tension leave Harry’s body as he slowly sat up sending Ben a small, grateful smile. Ben pulled him in and gently pressed a kiss to his forehead. Harry exhaled heavily, leaning into the contact. Ben smiled softly against his skin.

He shifted so that he was sitting properly instead of kneeling before pulling Harry back into him. His hand came up to cup his cheek before he kissed him, soft and sweet. Harry pulled back smiling softly, visibly drained. He slumped forward, leaning his head against Ben’s shoulder and allowing himself to enjoy the moment of tenderness they so rarely got to express.

King Adam sat at his desk staring blindly out towards the Isle of the Lost.

The Island was arguably his most successful creation, the defining decision of his reign. His legacy. When people in years to come looked back over his rule it was the Isle of the Lost they would remember first.

He had single-handedly managed to do what no ruler before him ever had. He had completely wiped out all villainy. Every person on that Island was a harbinger of evil or had sprung from the loins of one and he was the one that put them there, bringing about a period of total peace and prosperity for all of the kingdoms in Auradon.

Normally he felt a swell of pride when he saw the island, but today was not a normal day. Today King Adam had had to expand the search for the prince to the Isle.

He had felt nothing but horror and guilt as he’d written out the decree and sent messengers to the Isle to spread the word, putting up posters with instructions.

It had taken them months, but they had searched the entirety of Auradon, every inch of every kingdom. They had ticked off and accounted for every young male of the correct age and not one of them had made the ring react. They had even gotten Triton’s help to search the people of Atlantica. Their son was nowhere to be found. This left only one place he could be.

He jolted slightly as he felt a hand on his shoulder. “Our son is strong. He will be okay,” Belle said, soothingly. She was far too kind to him. He did not deserve it.

“It is not a question of strength,” He said quietly. “Our son has been forced to live amongst the most evil people in the land. His entire life he has suffered on that island at the hands of monsters, no doubt struggling to survive. We can only imagine the horrors he’s seen, the things he has been through. He has been in the clutches of our enemies all this time and it is completely my fault.”

Belle sighed, walking around so that she was standing in front of him. “You mustn’t blame yourself,” She said firmly. “The Isle saved the kingdom. It has protected everyone all these years.”
“And kept our son prisoner.”

“You weren’t to know!” Belle insisted. “We investigated at the time, we did everything within our power to find him. We don’t know who has him or how they managed to keep him from us. There is no point trying to undo the past.”

The king closed his eyes, exhaling heavily. Of course, he knew his wife was right. They had done everything to find him, they had searched for years, never giving up hope. They had turned the kingdom upside down searching until there was nowhere left to look. They could only assume the worst.

It had never occurred to them to check the Isle, after all, every villain had been bought in for questioning at the time and he didn’t remember any of the villains having children back then. Surely he would have remembered imprisoning a child.

“We can’t change what he’s been through but we can find him and free him. We can show him all the love he’s been missing out on all this time. We can do better.”

Unable to speak around the sudden lump in his throat the king pulled his wife down into his lap and held her close, burying his face in her neck as she gently carded her fingers through his hair. They would do better. They had to. For Benjamin.

Chapter Text

The king glared as he stared out at the empty square before him. No one had shown up for inspection. They had arrived on the Isle half an hour early in order to set up so they were ready for the citizens arrival and it was now almost noon. Not one young lad had presented himself to be checked. In fact they hadn’t seen a soul, it was as though every inhabitant on the Isle had vanished into thin air. It was safe to say King Beast was furious.

There was no way people could have missed the order, the posters were everywhere. Every inch of the island had been covered with the information so that they wouldn’t miss anyone, after all there was no list of inhabitants as there had been for the rest of the kingdom.

This was a direct act of defiance. One they simply could not afford.

“Sire,” the head of the royal guard called hesitantly. “What would you like us to do?” They could not give up, even if they had to use force.
“Do what you have to do,” The king said. “Check every building, every nook and crevice. You will scour this entire god forsaken rock and leave no stone unturned. Every young man is to be found and brought to us for inspection. We will not leave until he is found.”

With a single nod he turned on his heels. “You heard His Majesty!” He roared out at his men. “Go and find them. Whatever it takes.” With a quick salute they were gone, fanning out so they could cover the whole island as quickly as possible.

The king sighed heavily, sitting down beside his wife and placed his face in his hands. He felt her hand on his shoulder, comforting and warm.

“We should have predicted there would be resistance,” Fairy Godmother said as she glanced around them wearily. “It is only natural that there would be suspicion after so long without any contact from Auradon.”

Adam sighed, lifting his head. “What could we have done instead?” He asked. It wasn’t as though she’d said anything at the meeting to discuss all this.

“Perhaps we should have given them more information,” Belle sighed.
“And run the risk of them finding a way to hide him? They’ve kept him this long, they’re not going to give him up just like that.” Belle sighed again but nodded. It was truly an impossible situation.

“What do we do now?” She asked quietly.
“We wait for the guard to bring them through and we check them,” He said simply.
“And when we find him? Then what?” She asked. “Do we take him aside, explain to him who he is? Tell him nothing, bring him home and then talk to him? Find out who has been raising him and question them?” The king sighed, running a hand over his face.
“We should get him home first, settle him in,” Fairy Godmother suggested. “You can decide what to do after, once you’ve seen the damage.”

The royal couple exchanged apprehensive looks before nodding in agreement. “Very well,” the king agreed. “If that’s what we think is best.” Belle nodded her agreement. “We don’t want to overwhelm him. This is going to be a lot for him as it is.”

Wordlessly the king took his wife’s hand in his own. Yes, this was going to be a tough day for Benjamin, but it was also going to be a tough day for all of them.

They were finally getting their son back, but he wasn’t the baby they remembered. He was a full-grown man, his own person, and he’d been living on the Isle of the Lost his whole life. He’d had none of the love, teachings and guidance they would have given him. He wasn’t going to be the person they would have raised, the person he could have been. He was going to need a lot of love, care and patience to undo the damage that had been done. They were all going to need time to adjust.

There was a shout and the sound of a scuffle and then a few members of the guard appeared, dragging in dirty-looking young men who were fighting them every step of the way, teeth bared like savages and screaming insults. It was truly disheartening to see.

Would this be the kind of state Benjamin was in? Would he be worse?

One of the Royal bodyguards moved to shield them from the view but the king got to his feet. It was time. By the end of the day, their search would finally be over.

Ben awoke to the sound of shouting and heavy footfall up on deck. He couldn’t make out what was being said but the hostile tone was enough to have him concerned. “The hell is going on up there?” Harry grumbled as he sat up too, glaring at the ceiling.

The sight had Ben’s heart swelling. Harry was a thing of beauty first thing in the morning. He was sleep rumpled with wild bed hair and left over eyeliner smudged haphazardly where he never managed to clean it all off before bed. He reminded Ben of a picture of a panda he’d seen in a book he’d found in a dumpster when he was a kid. A cute, grumpy panda.

The shouting grew louder and the pair exchanged a quick look before leaping to action, grabbing up their swords. This was why you always slept in your clothes, you never knew when you’d need to defend yourself.

Ben had barely cleared the deck before there was pain in his stomach and he was sprawled out on his back. His eyes widened as he found himself staring at a rather pissed-off member of the Auradon guard.

He looked around and found Harry was in a similar position whilst several other crew members were being escorted off the ship.

Uma was being held back by two more guards as she screamed demands, alternating between wanting to know what was going on and wanting her crew members freed. They were very pointedly ignoring her.

The guard above him leant down, his ugly face only a few inches away from Ben’s. “You gonna come quietly or are we gonna have a little fun?” Ben smirked. “Let’s dance you royal cock sucker.” The guard grinned down at him so Ben spat in his face for good measure.

The guard reared back in shock and disgust, his face contorting with rage as he wiped his face. “You vile piece of scum!” He seethed. “You’re going to pay for that.”

Ben put up a good fight but, ultimately, he was no match for the Auradon guard. A lifetime of Isle scrapes was nothing compared to the years of rigorous training the guard received. The Auradon guard were lethal warriors, fighting machines, the most formidable force in all the kingdoms. That didn’t mean Ben didn’t leave his mark.

They were dragged from the ship and to the main square where a disorderly line of equally battered lads had formed. “It seems the good king didn’t take too kindly to no one showing up to his party,” Harry muttered.

His right eye was starting to swell and discolour and he had a split lip but otherwise seemed to be doing okay. Ben couldn’t deny his relief. He’d kill these bastards before he let any of them seriously harm Harry.

Ben pulled a face at the coppery taste in his mouth and found himself spitting again. Harry’s eyes widened in alarm as he saw the red colouration and Ben grinned, showing off his blood-stained teeth. “Relax.” He laughed at the panic in Harry’s eyes. “It’s not mine.”

They both watched as the guard Ben had tangled with rushed past, heading over to what appeared to be a medical tent. His hand was clutched desperately to the side of his head, a blood-soaked cloth pressed tight to it in an attempt to stem the flow. Ben felt an intense wave of satisfaction at the sight.

“What did ye do?” Ben gave a modest shrug, smirking.
“He might be missing an ear.” Harry gave an incredulous laugh.
“Ye’re a maniac.” Ben chuckled, shaking his head.
“I learned from the best.” Harry beamed.

Slowly the line inched forward and one by one the boys were released, free to go back to whatever they’d been up to before they were apprehended. They didn’t appear to be any worse off than before they’d reached the front of the line.

What the hell was going on?

“Can you see what’s happening?” Ben asked, hoping Harry’s extra few inches of height would help them solve the mystery.
“No,” Harry sighed shaking his head. “There’s security blocking the view.” Of course, there was.

It was then that Ben saw Jay walking away from the front, preparing to make his way back to their not-so-secret hideout.

“Jay!” He hissed, catching the thief’s attention. He raised an eyebrow at Ben who invited him over with a gesture of his head. “What’s going on? What are they up to?” The thief shrugged.
“Honestly, I dunno. It’s really dumb. They’re just waving a ring about in front of people, making them hold it for a bit.”

Both pirates blinked with confusion. “A ring?” Jay nodded.
“Yeah, some fancy, thing on a chain. Evil knows what they’re expecting to happen.”

“Oi! Get moving!” One of the guards hollered at Jay. The thief rolled his eyes.
“Catch you later, Fido. Mal will be waiting by the docks for you.” Ben gave a nod and the thief slipped off.

“He’s got to be fucking with us,” Harry said, eyebrows furrowed. “Why would they be waving a ring about? That’s just asking to get robbed.” Ben shrugged. You never could tell when it came to the royal idiots. They probably didn’t think anyone would dare to steal from the king and queen.

The pair slowly made their way up the line, more and more people getting sporadically brought in behind them.

Ben only grew tenser the closer he drew to the front. He had no idea what was going on, but his instincts were telling him to turn tail and run. Not that he stood much of a chance with all the security around the place.

His heart was racing and his palms were sweaty by the time Harry made it to the front of the line. There was a prickling sensation at the back of his neck and his stomach was twisted in knots. He couldn’t shake the intense feeling of wrongness, no matter how hard he tried.

“Next,” A soft but firm female voice called.

Harry stepped forward and Ben went to move with him but was immediately stopped by a heavily muscular-suited guy in all black. Personal security if Ben had to guess. “One at a time,” he barked at them.

Harry sent him a reassuring smile. “Don’t worry, Beastie. I’ll be in and out, quick as a flash.” He winked before leaning a little closer. “Let’s see if we can nab this fancy ring of theirs in the process, yeah?” Ben chuckled, relaxing just a little.

Harry stepped forward and out of sight, leaving Ben to wait in line. The second he lost sight of the other lad he felt the tense panic set back in. Something was wrong here, they wouldn’t be doing this without a reason, they were up to something. They had to be.

After what felt like an eternity, but was probably only moments, Harry re-emerged. Ben quickly gave him a once-over and confirmed that he was uninjured. He allowed himself to relax just a little.

Harry winked at him with a smirk. “Nothing to worry about.” Ben gave a nod and watched him head a little way down the line before coming to a stop to wait for him.

“Next!” Ben took a deep breath and shot Harry one last look over his shoulder. It was fine. It would be completely fine. He’d be out here with Harry and then back at the ship before he knew it.

He stepped forward and passed the security guy to find himself standing in front of the king and queen along with a short woman who was dressed all in blue with a pink bow at the neckline. She smiled at him warmly and he just raised an eyebrow in response.

The king and queen sat watching in silence as the petite blue lady approached him. “Just stand still and this will be over before you know it,” she said in an attempt to be reassuring.

The sense of wrongness had only intensified and Ben found himself stepping back the closer she got.

“Nothing to fear, dear,” she said, forcing a smile.

Ben snorted. He wasn’t scared, he just didn’t trust her. He didn’t trust any of them.

She held up her hand and just like Jay had said, she had a fancy-looking ring dangling from a gold chain. The ring was chunky and appeared to be made of solid gold. It had an animal’s head as its main feature. A wolf maybe? He couldn’t quite make it out from his current angle. Not that it mattered.

She held the ring up to him and it gently swung back and forth. There was a tense moment of silence as the royals and whoever she was waited with bated breath. Ben had a sudden urge to laugh. “Well, that was exciting.” He said dryly. The blue lady sighed, lowering her arm with a frown.

“Hold out your hand.” Ben blinked in surprise at being directly addressed by the queen.
“You what?” She watched him through narrow eyes, her expression unreadable.
“It’s excuse me, Your Majesty,” Blue huffed. Ben ignored her and so did the queen.
“Hold out your hand,” She repeated.

Ben wanted to defy her, to have the satisfaction of telling the goddamn queen of everyone no, but there was something about her. He couldn’t name it if he tried but it was familiar and it called to him. Urged him forward.

He slowly held out his hand, eyebrow raised. This felt more like some kind of ritual than an inspection. Like some strange method of choosing a sacrifice.

“Give it to him, FG.” Queen Belle ordered. What kind of dumbass name is that?

The lady in blue, FG apparently, pulled a put-out and somewhat confused expression leaving Ben to believe the queen’s eagerness was a new addition to the strange situation. It did nothing to soothe his nerves.

Hesitantly, FG placed the ring in the palm of his hand.

Ben gasped as a warm tingling sensation began spreading along his skin from the cool metal as the ring itself began to glow like an eerie blue nightlight. What the fuck?

There was a beat of stunned silence and then everyone was talking at once. “Well, will you look at that?”
“Benjamin?!”
“We found him!”

Ben could barely make out the words. An intense panic had settled in his bones and he could no longer ignore the urge to run. The instinctual sense of wrongness about the situation urged him to retreat, to grab Harry and hide.

He dropped the ring and took a step back, the action suddenly spurring the royal couple to their feet.

They didn’t appear angry or in any way bloodthirsty, if anything they were watching him in awe. Queen Belle even had tears in her eyes.

Ben had never been more confused in his life.

“Dismiss the others.” King Adam said, his voice gruff with the emotion he was attempting to hide. “We don’t need to do any more inspections.” Oh fuck.

Ben took another step back, bumping into one of the security guards. Blackbeard had been right, they were looking for something specific and whatever it was, he had it. Evil knows what they planned to do to him. He had to get out of there and fast.

“Harry, run!” He bellowed, catching everyone by surprise. He quickly ducked down between two of the guards before heading towards the confused pirate at a sprint. He grabbed his hand and kept going, dragging him behind for a few seconds as he attempted to catch up with the situation.

“Stop him!” The king’s voice ran out behind them.

“What the hell is going on?!” Harry cried, his grip on Ben intensifying.
“They’re going to take me,” Ben replied, slowing to a stop as the guards began to circle around them. They were trapped

“The hell they are,” Harry growled, dropping Ben’s hand and spinning himself so they were back to back. The bastards had taken their swords back at the ship but that didn’t mean they wouldn’t go down swinging regardless.

“Relax, kid,” one of the guards said, holding up his hands in what Ben suspected was supposed to be a soothing gesture. “We don’t want to hurt you.”

“No?” Harry muttered in faux surprise. “They’ve sure got a funny way of showing it.”
“I don’t know what these people have been smoking but it sure must have been strong if they really think anyone here would go down without a fight,” Ben muttered in response. He felt the rumble of Harry’s chuckle more than heard it, but it brought a smile to his lips regardless.

“We got this, Beastie,” He whispered and Ben gave a single nod of agreement. They would have to drag him away from Harry kicking, screaming, and bloody.

There was a tense moment as no one dared to move and it occurred to Ben that these men weren’t going to attack them unprovoked. The royals wanted him, so they couldn’t hurt him. He would have to throw the first punch if he had any hope of getting out of there. Maybe they could walk away from this after all.

The guards grew closer, too close for comfort it seemed, as it prompted Harry to finally take a swing. The guard dodged his fist, gripping his arm and bending it, forcing it behind his back. He grabbed at Harry’s other arm and forced him down onto his knees.

“Get off him you son of a bitch!” Ben yelled spinning on his heels to face the guard. He made to swing for the guy himself but felt hands on his arm before he could move. He thrashed hard, trying desperately to get loose but the two men held fast.

Harry was back on his feet but he was just as stuck as Ben, and he was fighting just as hard to get free.

Ben felt himself being pulled backwards and he fought even harder against the men holding him. “Harry!” He was starting to panic.
“Ben!” Harry sounded just as alarmed as he felt.

He pulled harder against the men but every inch of ground he gained he lost within seconds as more and more of them began to surround him, standing in his way and pulling him back from Harry.

“Let us go!” He shouted. He could feel the sweat of exertion at his brow but ignored it. He would not give up.

“Relax, boy,” A voice at his ear said. “Don’t make us take more extreme methods.” Ben ignored him, fighting harder still to get away. He had to get to Harry, there were no other options.

Ben gasped as he felt a sharp scratch at his neck. There was a moment of panic as he wondered what the hell they’d done to him, and then his vision started to turn dark at the edges. The last thing he registered was Harry’s anguished cry of his name before everything went black.

Chapter Text

Ben woke up slowly. He felt groggy and dazed and it felt near impossible to peel his heavy eyelids back. He couldn’t remember ever sleeping so deeply before. It wasn’t safe to do so on the Isle, you never knew who was lurking in the shadows of the night.

He glanced around the room he was in. Everything was white and clean and there was a strong chemical smell in the air. There was a plastic chair to the left of where he laid and a large window behind it, filling the room with a bright warm light. Ben found himself squinting against it, he’d never seen anything so bright before, it was always dark on the Isle thanks to the constant cloud cover.

He was in a bed with plastic rails on either side which he’d been handcuffed to, naturally. It was softer than anything he’d ever felt before and he didn’t feel particularly inclined to move.

Still, he had to get out of there... assuming he could find out where exactly ‘there’ was.

He pulled at his restraints experimentally, testing their strength.

“I assure you they won’t break.” Ben’s head shot up at the voice and he found himself staring up at FG who was standing in the doorway, hands folded behind her back. Her gaze was intense as she watched him and Ben glowered back in defiance.

He broke eye contact, looking down at the restraints once more and with a pang of panic he realised his bracelet wasn’t on his wrist and he was no longer in his own clothes.

He was now wearing a yellow cotton t-shirt and blue pants that were baggy and soft. What the hell had they done to him?

“Where’s my stuff?” He asked, anger clear in his tone.
“Your clothes were removed to be cleaned. They were quite filthy. Though I assure you a much nicer wardrobe can and will be provided. Handmade clothes from the finest tailor in the kingdom.”

Ben was barely listening, his heart beating in his ears. His bracelet. His one remaining connection to Harry. He needed it back. Now.

“I want my bracelet back,” he gritted out. FG frowned.
“I’m sorry?” She said, taking a tentative step closer.
“My bracelet. The leather one. Where is it?” Her frown didn’t budge, and Ben strongly desired to smack it off her stupid, benevolent face.
“I’m afraid I don’t know, dear. I assume it is with the rest of your clothes.”

Ben glared at her, showing off his fangs and causing her to gasp. “Find it. I need it, now.”

She frowned deeper still and Ben started to think she might be a bit slow. What was it she wasn’t understanding here?

He began to thrash in the bed, pulling as hard as he could against the cuffs. The metal bit at his skin, clearing the last of the fog from his mind. Much better.

“You must calm down,” she cried in alarm. “You’ll hurt yourself, behaving like that.” Ben pointedly ignored her.

“Benjamin?” A soft voice called from the hallway. Seconds later Queen Belle appeared in the doorway and she seemed genuinely delighted when she spotted Ben. “Oh good you’re awake!” She smiled.

“How is he Fairy Godmother?” She asked, either not noticing or intentionally ignoring his obvious agitation. He wasn’t sure which.

The fairy woman hesitated and Ben released a growl of frustration. “For evil’s sake! Where is my bracelet?!” He snapped out. The queen startled and Fairy Godmother sighed. “He’s a little distressed,” she said, stating the obvious. Ben rolled his eyes.

“Oh, sweetheart, it’s okay,” Belle said as she came to stand by the bed. “You’re safe now.”

She placed a hand over Ben’s and he flinched at the contact but was unable to move away like he wanted. He had no idea what was going on here and in all honesty, he didn’t care. He just wanted to go home.

“Where is my bracelet?” He asked through gritted teeth, meeting the queen’s gaze in the hopes she might understand the urgency of the matter since the incompetent fairy woman was still being maddeningly unhelpful.

The queen frowned. “The dirty leather thing?” She asked, a mild tone of distaste. Good. Ben thought. He was finally getting somewhere.
“Yes, that one. Black with red stitching.”

Her lips pressed into a thin line as she exchanged a meaningful look with Fairy Godmother. Ben felt a tight knotting sensation in his stomach. They weren’t telling him something and he suspected that was because they knew he wasn’t going to like it. What had they done?

“Was it… important?” She asked carefully, only confirming Ben’s suspicions.
“Unbelievably,” he said through gritted teeth. “What the fuck have you done with it? And the rest of my stuff? The truth this time,” he hissed. Fairy Godmother looked affronted and the queen guilty.

He began to thrash again, harder, more urgently. “Benjamin, please,” the queen begged but he was beyond listening, fury and fear taking over his senses. “What the fuck have you done with my stuff?! Who gave you the fucking right?”
“Language!” Fairy Godmother scolded but Ben just sent her a furious look.

These people had already kidnapped him. What more could they possibly want from him? He couldn’t give them anything of worth and there was nothing in his clothes or his possessions that would be of value to them so they couldn’t have taken them for anything other than torture. To strip him completely of anything that made him who he was.

“What do you want from me?!” He shouted out in frustration.

He could feel blood trickling down from his wrist as he continued to pull with all his strength. It was clear no one knew what to say. The queen’s eyes were shining and her hand had come up to cover her mouth. Without a word, she spun on her heels and headed straight out the door. Ben couldn’t help but feel slightly abandoned as any hope that she might actually be competent enough to help him left with her.

He let out another frustrated snarl and gave a final yank of his bonds before suddenly finding he couldn’t move. None of the muscles in his body were responding leaving him completely immobile. He stared at Fairy Godmother with obvious panic and she gave a soft sigh.

“I know this is confusing and scary, and you must have a lot of questions,” she said, her tone firmer than Ben would have expected her capable of. “But you need to calm down. Shouting and fighting won’t get you anywhere.” Ben opened his mouth to argue but she sent him a stern look. “If you can remain calm and listen then we can start to explain things. Now I am going to check your wrists. When Queen Belle returns, she and King Adam can explain everything to you.”

“I just want to go home,” he said quietly as she set to work undoing the now unnecessary restraints with a flick of her wrist. She sent him a sympathetic look. “My dear, you are home.” She said softly.

Ben didn’t know what to make of the statement. He didn’t know where he was but it definitely wasn’t the Isle.

“Have we had a little accident?”

Ben glanced at the door to find the king standing there, leaning casually against the frame. He had the air of someone who had finally completed a great quest, of someone who had finally found the grand prize they had been longing for. He imagined it was what Jafar would look like when Jay finally found the “big score” he was always insisting was hidden somewhere on the Isle.

“No permanent damage,” Fairy Godmother assured King Adam as she carefully covered the cuts in a purple ointment before bandaging them gently. “Not too tight?” She asked Ben. He debated making a comment about how he liked being tied up tight but thought better of it. “I dunno, I can’t feel them, can I?” He pointed out and she blushed.

The king looked confusedly between the two but before Ben could snap at him too, Belle appeared. She was a little breathless but held up her hand triumphantly. “I got it,” she exclaimed, heading back over to the bed.

She paused when she saw his bandaged wrists. “Oh, honey,” she sighed. “This must be a lot for you to take in.” She gave him a small smile that he didn’t reciprocate. She gently offered him his bracelet and he felt tears well in his eyes. She frowned when he didn’t immediately reach for it and he very pointedly sent Fairy Godmother a look.

“I will remove the spell if you promise to remain calm and behave in a civilised manner.” Ben rolled his eyes.
“Bold of you to assume I know how to do that,” he said dryly and she gave a little huff.
“Release him,” the king said firmly. “I’ll deal with him if he’s any trouble.” Ben raised a challenging eyebrow but said nothing.

He knew of the rumours of King Adam’s hidden strength and other residual curse-related talents. Whilst Ben wasn’t about to be completely submissive to him, he wasn’t about to intentionally antagonise him. Not until he had more information anyway.

The feeling suddenly returned to his body and he was immediately snatching his bracelet out of the queen’s hand. He held it to his chest and took a deep breath as he closed his eyes, allowing the relief to flow through him. He met the Queen’s gaze and nodded, the closest he’d ever gotten to thanking someone. Her expression immediately softened and she nodded in response.

“Right,” King Adam said, eyeing him with silent intrigue. “Let’s get to this, shall we?” He straightened up, coming to stand at the end of the bed as the queen took the seat beside it and Fairy Godmother hovered nearby.

“You must have a lot of questions,” Queen Belle ventured carefully. Ben wasn’t even sure where to start.
“Where am I?” He asked. “And why am I here?” The queen gave a soft sigh and reached out to him before seeming to think better of it, returning her hand to her lap.

“You’re in the medical wing of our castle in Auradon City,” the King answered, calm and confident. “And you’re here because it’s your home.” Ben frowned and the queen sent him a reassuring look.

“Perhaps you know the story of our son?” She asked and Ben nodded.
“He was kidnapped twenty years ago, assumed dead. They say it’s why the Isle was created.” The couple exchanged a look and Ben couldn’t help but wonder if people were supposed to know that part.

“Yes, well, we searched for him for a long time but could never find any answers to who took him or why. There was never a ransom demand or anything that would indicate some sort of intended gain. We could only assume it had been about revenge, that he had been taken and killed.”

Ben wasn’t sure what this had to do with his current situation but he nodded anyway.

“Recently the Moirai gave a prophecy regarding our son,” the King continued. Ben frowned in confusion.
“The what?” He asked.
“The Moirai, more commonly known as the fates. They reside in Olympus and preside over the lives of all of mankind,” Belle quickly explained.

“Anyway,” Adam continued. “The prophecy indicated that he was still alive so we spoke with them ourselves. They told us where he was, what name he used and they enchanted the ring so that it would react when it came into contact with him.” Ben stared at them in quiet disbelief. They couldn’t possibly be saying what he thought they were saying.

“You… you think I’m your son?” Seriously, whatever drugs they had must have been strong ones.

“You saw the ring react as well as we did.” Ben rolled his eyes.
“And that’s what you’re going to base everything on? How do you know these Fates of yours weren’t just screwing with you? Or that someone didn’t tamper with it somehow? I’m a lot of things but a prince sure as shit ain’t one of them.” Fairy Godmother tsked at his course language and both royals winced but neither commented.

“We have taken a sample of your DNA and will be testing it to be sure,” the fairy assured him. Ben couldn’t help but feel slightly violated.
“And when that proves how crazy all this is, I can go home?” He asked.

The queen frowned and the king furrowed his eyebrows. “Why would you want to go back?” He asked incredulously.
“Why would I want to return to my friends and family?” Ben countered in disbelief. Surely they understood since they were clinging so desperately to this idea of their son and the family they could've been.

They exchanged a look that Ben couldn’t read before the queen turned back to him. “If by some unexpected turn of events, the results tell us that you aren’t our son we will, of course, return you. But I wouldn’t get my hopes up, it is very unlikely.” Ben exhaled heavily, his nostrils flaring.

“So you’re saying I’m stuck here?” He asked, feeling suddenly exhausted.
“Quite the contrary,” King Adam smiled. “Here you are free.” Ben rolled his eyes.
“Being held here against my will makes me just as much a prisoner as every person on that island.” The king’s expression soured but Ben couldn’t bring himself to find any satisfaction in it.

“I know that this is a lot to take in, and it will be quite an adjustment from what you’re used to,” Belle said, finally reaching out and taking his hand in hers. His whole body went stiff and she looked at him imploringly. “But you will get used to it, and you'll find that it is so much better here than what you’re used to. You will have so many chances, so much opportunity. You will be loved and cared for and have everything you never had in that awful place.”

Ben stared at her in total disbelief for a long moment before he found himself laughing. The reaction seemed to startle all three of them but Ben couldn’t help himself. Were they being serious right now?

“Are you for real?” He asked, barely able to stifle his giggles. He must have sounded hysterical. “Do you have any idea what it’s like on that island?” They exchanged horrified looks and Ben knew they had no idea what he was talking about.

“We’re so sorry you had to spend so many yea—” Ben cut her off before she could finish.

“The place may be a shit hole filled with psychotic assholes but that doesn’t mean I haven’t had love. That I haven’t been cared for. I have had plenty of love in my life. I have been very lucky on that front.” It was clear they didn’t know what to say to that.

Belle eyed the bracelet he was still gripping tightly with a new understanding. “That’s from someone important, isn’t it?” Ben swallowed but nodded. Maybe if they understood they’d let him go. “It was a birthday present,” he said quietly. “From the love of my life. He made it.” They were both staring at him with wide eyes.

Perhaps he’d overestimated the importance of the whole true love thing they were always talking about.

“Who looked after you when you were on the Isle?” The king asked, ignoring Ben’s comment entirely.
“My dad,” he said much to the king’s annoyance. He opened his mouth to contradict Ben but Belle sent him a look.

“Who is that? We couldn’t find any records of anyone with the name Teach.” Ben was a little surprised that they knew his full name. Most people just called him ‘Ben, son of Blackbeard’. “I don’t suppose you would. He never really used his birth name.” The only person Ben knew who used it was Izzy.

“I’m Benjamin, son of Blackbeard. Pleased to meet you.” His tone was heavy with sarcasm and he made sure to show off his fangs as he smiled at them sardonically. They both gasped at the sight.

“Could it be?” The queen asked softly, glancing first at Fairy Godmother and then her husband.
“It’s entirely possible,” Fairy Godmother whispered, eyeing him curiously.
“Excuse me?” He was sitting right there. Belle at least had the decency to look abashed.

“What a curious effect.” The king mused, stepping uncomfortably close as he tried to get a good look at Ben’s fangs. “Have you got any other unusual defect?”

“Back off!” Ben snapped as King Adam reached forward to actually touch his teeth. The king frowned, clearly unused to not getting his way, but did deign to lean backwards out of Ben’s space.

“Let’s not worry about all that right now,” Belle said judiciously. Her smile was warm and kind. It did nothing to sway Ben’s attention.
“Worry about what?” It was becoming increasingly obvious that they weren’t telling him something though what could be worse than the bomb they’d already dropped he didn’t know.

“All in good time,” Belle said firmly, getting to her feet and offering him a hand.

“How about we get you settled in your new room?” She suggested. Ben stared at her in disbelief.
“My… what?” Her smile grew as she chuckled.
“Come on,” she said, indicating that he should get up too. “It’s time for you to see your home.”

Wearily, Ben followed her out of the small room and down the hospital corridor. He followed her through a large, ornately carved wooden door and stopped dead in his tracks.

They’d emerged into a large antechamber with hallways and doors coming off it in all directions and the largest, grandest staircase Ben had ever seen. The cavernous room was filled with antique furniture, huge tapestries and paintings depicting scenes from Auradon’s past, and more expensive-looking ornaments than Ben could hope to count. He had never before imagined such luxury.

He’d always known that Auradon’s inhabitants had it better than they did, but he’d never realised just how large the divide truly was.

“This way,” Belle said, starting towards the staircase, clearly unaffected by the pure excess all around them. Ben could never imagine getting used to living somewhere like this, to having so much.

Ben ran his hand along the wooden railing, revelling in the smoothness of it. The intricate carvings created a slight bumpiness without the risk of splinters or a loose nail stabbing you.

The corridors were just as grand as the entryway and every room they passed had been just as lavishly decorated. It made Ben’s head spin to think that all this belonged to only two people.

“How do you know where anything is around here?” Ben couldn’t help but ask as he continued to follow the queen through the seemingly endless maze of doors and hallways. Belle chuckled, smiling fondly at him over her shoulder. “I felt the same way when I first moved into Adam’s old castle. It seemed unfathomable for a simple town girl like me to ever feel at home or settled in such a place. In time I found my way and so will you.”

Ben raised a bemused eyebrow but said nothing. He couldn’t imagine anyone ever referring to Belle as simple, then again, he couldn’t ever imagine referring to being held prisoner as moving in either.

They came to a stop outside another door, just as ornate and domineering as the others. The only thing that indicated any difference between them was the sudden nervousness that had seeped into Belle’s stance.

“We kept it simple for you, tried to make it as comfortable as we could.” Her hands had begun to ring themselves together, only amplifying the sudden tension. “Of course, you’re welcome to redecorate in any way you choose. We want you to feel at home.” Ben gave a bitter laugh.
“This place will never be at home.”

The colour had drained somewhat from Belle’s cheeks but her expression remained determined. “It’s bound to feel that way at first.” She said, as though her own past gave her some form of authority on the matter. “But it’ll get easier. You’ll see.”

She cleared her throat when it became clear that Ben wasn’t going to respond. “Anyway,” she said as she pushed the door open. “This is yours.”

Ben’s jaw dropped as he stepped over the threshold. The room was huge. All dark wooden panelling and furniture to match. All the soft furnishings were either yellow or blue, including the four-poster bed which could easily fit four people quite comfortably.

There was a couch situated in one corner next to the biggest TV Ben had ever seen, it was sleek and thin and hanging on the wall— a far cry from the ancient, square, monster they had in the chip shop.

“What am I meant to do with all this space?” He mumbled, awed despite himself. Belle chuckled.
“I’m sure you’ll think of something.”

Chapter Text

It had been hours since they’d taken Ben and Harry still couldn’t bring himself to go back to the ship.

The guards had left with the royal couple and life on the Isle had gone more or less back to normal. It was like nothing had ever happened. For everyone else at least.

Harry felt hollow. Like someone had reached into him and scooped out his insides.

Ben was gone.

Who knew what they were going to do with him, what they wanted him for? None of it made sense. He was just some kid from the Isle, and Auradon had never cared about them before.

Harry squeezed his eyes shut and tried to keep his breathing even. Thinking about it too much only made him spiral and showing weakness was dangerous. You could never be sure who was lurking in the shadows.

The sound of twigs snapping caught his attention and he immediately shot to his feet. He spun to face the direction of the noise, instinct driving his hand towards his cutlass.

“Easy,” Gil stopped, hands raised. “It’s just me.” Harry sighed, shoulders sagging as he dropped his hand.
“What do ye want Gil?” He snapped, in no mood for company.
“Uma sent me to bring you home.”

Harry’s throat suddenly felt tight. He shook his head, looking away. “I can’t do that.”

Undeterred, Gil stepped closer. “Harry, you’ve been through a lot today. You should be with your family. Let us help you.” Harry opened and closed his mouth a few times, unable to find words, not that he’d have been able to push them past the lump in his throat even if he could figure out what to say.

He let Gil pull him into a tight hug, slumping against his broad frame as he finally let himself accept the affection that was being offered. He suddenly felt exhausted.

“Come on. Everyone’s really worried.” Gil said gently, beginning to lead Harry back in the direction of the town. Despite the way his stomach recoiled at the thought of everyone’s sympathetic faces, Harry let himself be led. He was too tired to keep fighting his feelings.

“How’d the meeting with Mal go?” Harry asked, mainly to keep his mind distracted until they reached the ship.
“Uma postponed it to tomorrow. She wanted to make sure everyone was okay first, tend to wounds and check in with everyone’s mental states. You know what she’s like.” Harry gave a small, tired smile. Despite her spiky exterior Uma had always had a big heart.

“What’s the damage?” Gil gave a small shrug.
“A few cuts, a lot of bruises. Jonas lost a tooth and Desiree got her nose broken trying to help Sammy Smee.” Harry’s eyebrows furrowed. “Sammy’s not even close to the age they wanted.” Gil shrugged again.
“That’s why she intervened. I think they were just grabbing anyone they could get their hands on by that point.”

A tightness was starting to form in Harry’s chest accompanied by pressure behind his eyes and he had to force himself to keep it together.

“Was anyone else taken?” He whispered. Gil glanced at him, lower lip between his teeth. “Was anyone else taken?” Harry repeated, louder this time as his emotions began to get the better of him. Gil shook his head. “No, no one else.” Harry released a shaky breath and nodded.
“At least there’s only one person to rescue.” He was trying to sound strong, sure of himself, but he’d missed the mark. He’d only succeeded in sounding vulnerable.

“Shit,” he whispered, his voice cracking as the tears threatened to fall. He came to an abrupt stop, his hand coming up to cover his face.

“Hey,” Gil said gently, stepping in front of him to shield him from the view of any opportunistic prying eyes, and squeezing his shoulder comfortingly. “It’s going to be okay.”
“Ye know that for a fact, do ye?” Harry said weakly.

He sounded so small and hopeless and he hated it. He hadn’t felt this way since he was a small kid back on the Rodger with his dad.

Gil smiled at him and Harry barely resisted the urge to lash out and punch him. “We will figure it out. We always do.” Harry gave a weak nod.

He let Gil wrap one of his gigantic arms around his shoulders as they started to walk once more. “We better get a move on or Uma will have our heads.” That at least made the blue-eyed boy smile.

Harry found himself stopping again as they reached the gangplank. He looked up at the beautiful wooden vessel and felt like the weight of the world was sitting on his chest. Like someone had reached into him and started squeezing tight around his heart.

“Come on,” Gil said gently, placing a hand between his shoulders and gently guiding him forward. “It’s time to come home.”

As Harry made it onto the deck a hush immediately fell over the crew.

They were all sitting around in various states of injury. No one looked too badly hurt, but the day’s ordeal had clearly shaken everyone’s nerves.

He shouldn’t have been surprised when people started offering their support, this crew was his family after all, but it was a shock to the system when the outpouring of sympathy came towards him in waves of hugs, friendly shoulder squeezes and soft words paired with grimly reassuring smiles. His throat was too tight to respond.

He felt like he was in a haze as Gil walked him below deck, emotions swirling within him like a storm at sea. Volatile and unpredictable. This was the kind of mood only Ben could usually make sense of. But Ben’s not here.

Gil didn’t bother knocking, just walking straight into Uma’s quarters. If it were anyone else she’d threaten to gut them but Gil could get away with almost anything.

Uma spun to face them from where she’d been pacing the room. Harry watched as the tension immediately bled from her, her shoulders dropping and her spine slumping slightly. A flash of guilt forced Harry’s gaze down to his worn boots.

“Gil, out.”

To the older lad’s surprise, the long-haired boy didn’t argue, instead simply slipping out with a knowing nod. They’d already planned this. Great.

A heavy silence fell over the room as Harry continued to stare at his shoes. He could feel Uma’s gaze on him but could not bring himself to meet it.

He hadn’t been able to protect Ben, the one thing in life he’d always promised to do, he’d had his ass handed to him by the Auradon Guard, and he’d worried the whole crew by disappearing on them for hours. He’d let everyone down.

He released an audibly sharp exhale as Uma suddenly wrapped him up in a tight hug. He blinked a few times, recalibrating, before slowly returning the embrace.

He fought hard against the tears beginning to well in his eyes.

“Are you okay?” she asked, stepping back slightly so she could look into his face. He shook his head, throat still too tight for words.

Sobs wracked his frame before he even knew what was happening and Uma was leading him over to the bed, forcing him into a seated position.

He allowed himself to be cradled against her petite frame as he continued to bawl uncontrollably. He felt pathetic, but he couldn’t seem to get a grip. His emotions had finally taken full control, demanding to be set loose. Unstoppable as a tsunami, consuming all in its path.

He felt Uma’s hand carding through his hair and was vaguely aware of her murmuring softly, attempting to soothe him. He both loved and hated her for it.

Eventually, the tides inside him calmed and he found himself in control of his body once more. Embarrassed, Harry pulled away.

“What happened?” Uma asked quietly, pointedly not acknowledging what had just passed between them. Harry sighed, scrubbing a hand over his damp face. He suddenly felt exhausted.

“They took him.” He said simply, staring blindly at the wall before him. Uma sighed.
“I’m gonna need more than that if we have any hope of figuring out what happened here.”

Harry released a pained noise, lurching to his feet. “What difference does it make?” He asked bitterly.
“If we can figure out what happened, why they took Ben, then we can figure out how to get him back. If Mal’s right about whatever DeVil’s been playing around with then we’re gonna be out there soon enough. We need a plan and we need as much information as possible to form it.”

Harry stared at her in silent awe for a long moment, unable to fully process what she was saying. He was supposed to be the one who protected Ben, yet here he was falling apart whilst Uma remained practical and objective. He was crying on her shoulder and all the while she was formulating a plan to get Ben back. He was pathetic.

“Harry!” She snapped her tone enough to act as the slap in the face he needed to return to the present. “We don’t have time for all the self-loathing and internalised degradation. Focus on Ben.”

Harry felt a wave of guilt, promptly followed by love and appreciation for his best friend. Uma knew him so well, she knew exactly what was going on and exactly how to handle it, she always managed to keep the ghosts at bay. At least for now.

Focus on Ben.

“None of it makes sense!” He sighed as he started to pace. “They had us all go in one by one and they waved this ring about before letting us go except when Ben went in something must have happened because he came running out of there like a Dalmatian who’d just seen Cruella coming. We tried to run but the guard surrounded us.”

“Okay, so what’s the angle?” Uma frowned deep in thought. “Any idea what it was about him that they liked?” Harry shook his head.

“He knew something was wrong.” He said quietly, mind suddenly stuck on how tense Ben had been, how weary. “He hadn’t wanted to go in.” Uma sighed, rubbing at her forehead tiredly. “He always has had good instincts,” she muttered.

“Alright,” she said, getting to her feet, all business once more. “The royals have him. We don’t know why, but realistically they’re going to have him at the castle.”
“Probably in the dungeons,” Harry added quietly, mostly so he could feel like he was contributing something. Uma nodded.
“Right. They’ll want him close so they can keep an eye on him and whatever it is they’re doing to him, but they’ll want to hide him so no one finds out there’s a villain on the loose.”

Harry’s stomach roiled uncomfortably as his mind filled with all the possible things they could be doing to Ben, all the things they might want him for. He felt sick.

“We have to get him out of there Uma,” he whispered, barely audible. Uma paused in her frantic movements to plant herself directly in front of him, meeting his gaze head-on. “We will.” She said firmly. “Whatever it takes, Ben’s family. We’re not going to abandon him.”

Harry nodded, swallowing hard to fight the tears threatening to take over once more.

“I mean it,” Uma repeated, refusing to budge out of his personal space. “We’ll negotiate it into our terms with Mal if need be. Hell, we’ll abandon them the second we reach land if that’s what it takes. We won’t leave him to suffer at the hands of the King and Queen. Not for anything.” Harry released a shaky breath and nodded. “Whatever it takes.”

Ben stood on the balcony trying to gauge the distance between it and the large tree that stood in the garden beyond. It looked strong enough to support his weight, at least for long enough for him to climb down.

It was too much of a risk for him to try and exist through the castle. He could run into someone at any moment and he didn’t know the layout well enough to guarantee he’d even find the exit.

So, tree climbing it is.

He carefully climbed up onto the stone railing, balancing momentarily as he glanced around to make sure there was no one to see him. He took a deep breath, releasing it slowly before jumping.

The tree was closer than he’d anticipated, causing him to collide with the trunk. He hissed softly as several of the smaller branches scratched at his bare arms and face but he did his best to ignore it. He’d suffered through worse injuries and could patch himself up once he got back to the ship if need be.

He dropped down into the lush grass and squatted there a moment, listening carefully for any indication that anyone was aware of his movements. Once he was sure that he’d remained undetected, Ben bolted towards the forestland that lay between the palace and the harbour.

He made a point of staying off the main path, fighting through the dense foliage as it caught his skin and tore at the ridiculous clothes they’d put on him. It didn’t matter, the sooner he got out of there, the better. Harry would have a field day when he saw the state of him.

By the time he reached the harbour, he was sweaty and breathless. There were twigs and leaves stuck in his hair and he looked like he’d been attacked by a rabid cat. He barely even noticed, too focused on the task at hand.

He stuck to the shadows, carefully navigating the area in order to avoid civilians as he made his way to the water where he could acquire a boat.

There were many different boats in the docks, most of them huge and fancy and far too difficult for him to drive alone. He may have the blood of a pirate but he’d never had the chance to sail, not even on their simple pirate ship. He had no hope of figuring out one of these high-tech contraptions. He wouldn’t even make it out of the harbour.

No, he needed something simpler, something more low-key, if he was to have a shot of getting out of there unnoticed and in one piece.

A small wooden row boat sat tied to the end of one of the docks, hidden almost completely from view by the large luxury yachts, cruisers and catamarans to name a few. It wasn’t exactly an open-sea vessel but it was definitely Ben’s level.

He looked out at the water that stood between him and the Isle. It was calmer than anything he’d ever seen, it barely seemed to move as it reflected back what remained of the evening’s golden sun rays.

He’d take the risk.

No one paid him the slightest bit of attention as he climbed down into the vessel and began untying the rope. Why would they? No one did anything as evil as stealing in Auradon. It was laughable how much faith they had in each other’s goodness.

He put his everything into each stroke of the oar, propelling the small boat through the water as fast as he could, cutting through the waves like a knife through butter. The sooner he got away from this place the better.

The further out he got, the more the boat began to bob and rock with the movement of the water. Ben’s stomach began to roil uncomfortably and he fought hard to keep his breathing even. He was a pirate damn it. He refused to allow himself to get seasick of all things. It’ll pass, just focus on getting home.

His muscles were starting to burn and sweat was dripping from him at an alarming rate when the boat came to a sudden stop, the force of it knocking him forward onto the deck. It felt like he’d hit a brick wall.

Ben turned to look at what he’d collided with only to find the way seemingly clear. He frowned, leaning overboard slightly in an attempt to see if there was something below the waves that he’d gotten caught on.

The crystal clear water revealed nothing to him, seeming to go on endlessly below, descending into darkness long before the floor was reached. It filled Ben with a strange mix of awe and a consciousness of just how small and insignificant he was in the grand scheme of things.

He shook his head in an attempt to clear it before turning back to the oars. He had a job to do.

He tried to force the boat forward once more only for it to bounce backwards yet again. Ben released a frustrated noise, turning back to the seemingly clear run. He was so close to the Isle now.

A slight shimmering caught his attention and he leaned closer, hesitant and curious. Carefully, with a sinking feeling in his stomach, he used the oar to poke at the sparkly air. Despite there seeming to be nothing there the wooden paddle bumped up against something solid and a wave of clarity crashed into him.

The barrier.

How could he have forgotten about the barrier?

He’d been so eager to get out of there that it hadn’t even occurred to him that the barrier might cause him a problem. After all, he was a villain and he was trying to get into the Isle not out of it. Wasn’t it's job to keep villains in after all?

His chest suddenly felt tight and his eyes stung as he struggled to breathe. This could not be happening. He could not be stuck here. Completely and totally alone.

Wait.

The king and queen got through. Hell, all their guards and that stupid fairy woman got through with them. There had to be some sort of hidden way in. A door or passage. Something. He just had to find it.

With a renewed sense of determination, Ben turned the boat and carefully began to navigate his way around the barrier’s perimeter, feeling his way as best as he could. He had to be careful, it wouldn’t be a big gap, of that much he was sure. They couldn’t risk the villains finding it.

He completed a circuit of the barrier. Twice.

Nothing.

A disheartening sick feeling began to take over him that had nothing to do with the gentle rocking of the tide.

He came to a pause halfway through his third lap of the Island, he could see the Lost Revenge, moored by the docks in Pirate Bay. He could make out figures on the deck, nothing distinct but they appeared to be milling about, grouped together in camaraderie. He smiled softly despite the growing pit in his stomach. He was glad to see them taking care of one another.

Movement on the docks caught his attention and he instantly recognised the figures approaching the ship. There was only one person who wore a red jacket like that. Harry.

The figure beside him was unmistakably Gil. He had one broad arm around Harry’s shoulder and if their bent heads were anything to go by they were talking about something that they didn’t want overheard. It didn’t take a genius to figure out what that was.

In a moment of desperation, Ben began banging his fists against the barrier. “Harry! Harry, I’m here! I’m right here!” He felt like he was hitting concrete, pain shooting up to his wrists with each blow. He ignored it, continuing to pound against the invisible shield in the hope that somehow, someone would notice him. Would realise that he’d come home.

“Someone, please,” he cried, his voice cracking embarrassingly with raw emotion. “I’m here.”

He watched as the two boys cleared the deck and soon disappeared below. His throat felt thick and tight and his stomach swirled like a whirlpool. He sat back in defeat, unable to move away. Even if he couldn’t get in, he couldn’t bring himself to return to the mainland either.

He’d never felt so empty and hollow before.

Ben wasn’t sure how long he sat there, but it was the sudden bright white spotlight that snapped him out of his trance. He shielded his eyes as he tried to figure out where the light was coming from. He hadn’t even noticed it had gotten dark.

“Benjamin! There you are!”

A large white speedboat pulled up alongside him, dwarfing the rowboat and causing it to rock violently.

Once the spots had cleared from his vision he noticed that aboard the boat were the king and queen, Fairy Godmother and two members of the Auradon Guard, one driving and one standing at the back, his chest puffed out and his hand sitting dangerously close to his weapons belt.

He was dragged unceremoniously onto the boat and dropped on the deck at the royal couple’s feet. King Adam was clearly furious whilst Queen Belle showed nothing but relief. She promptly dropped to her knees and pulled Ben against her in a tight hug. He didn’t have the energy to pull away.

“Thank goodness you’re alright!” She said as she cupped his cheeks between her hands. “Goodness, what have you been up to? You look a fright!”

Ben didn’t respond. He felt completely and utterly numb. It seemed that everything was taking place far away, somewhere distant and unable to affect him here in his little bubble of nothingness.

“What were you thinking?!” The king boomed. “Running away, stealing, coming out here unsupervised. Do you have any idea—”
“Enough, Adam,” Belle said firmly, cutting him off mid-rant. “I think he’s been through more than enough today already.” Adam made a frustrated noise but said nothing. Under other circumstances, Ben might have laughed at how incredibly whipped the viscous tyrant was.

Ben didn’t register much of the trip back to the castle. The distant slosh of the wave provided little comfort for someone who had lost everything that had ever mattered to them.

Belle brought him back up to the room that was, apparently, now his. She sat him gently on the bed before setting about cleaning his wounds and picking plants out of his hair. Ben let her, he could find it in himself to put up a fight.

He kept picturing Harry in his head. He’d looked so small and pitiful hunched up into Gil’s side. It made his heart ache to think of him suffering.

“There,” Belle declared as she plucked the last leaf from his messy mop of honey-brown locks. “Couldn’t have you walking around like that, someone might have mistaken you for one of the lost boys.” The joke fell flat, barely even registering on the edge of Ben’s consciousness.

Sensing that he was in no mood for jokes, Belle gave a soft sigh before stroking his scratched-up cheek. “Try and get some rest, darling.” She said gently as she got to her feet. “Things won’t seem so bad in the morning.”

Ben highly doubted that.

Chapter Text

Ben sat on the window seat staring out at the castle grounds. It was still early but he couldn’t sleep.

The bed was huge and far too soft compared to what Ben was used to. He’d tossed and turned and lamented how alone he was. He couldn’t remember the last time he’d slept without Harry sprawled out all over him.

Finally, the sun had started streaming in through the window and Ben had given up.

It appeared Belle was wrong, things seemed just as bad in the morning as they had the night before. If anything, they were worse thanks to the guards not so subtly patrolling beneath his windows and balcony. Not that there was much point in him trying to escape that way again.

He ran his fingers over the leather band and thought of Harry. He’d seen the other boy at some of his lowest points, had held him and cared for him and done his best to ease his pain. He had never once seen Harry look so utterly wretched as he had last night, leaning into Gil like a small child in desperate need of protection. It made Ben’s heart ache.

Hopefully, this test Fairly Godmother mentioned would prove that Ben wasn’t who they thought he was and he’d be back with Harry soon enough.

A large black car pulled up outside the castle. Ben’s eyes widened in shock as he watched the back door open and several members of the guard escort his father from the vehicle and start pulling him towards the castle’s front door. What the fuck?

He was on his feet and out the bedroom door before he’d consciously decided to move. He darted through the hallways barefoot, just managing to find the main staircase in time to intercept them.

“Dad!” He shouted, taking the stairs two at a time. Blackbeard’s head snapped around and the guards came to an abrupt halt.
“Ben!” He cried with relief, twisting to face him.

Ben flung his arms around the older man, hugging him tightly. He felt his dad push his face against his neck, his beard tickling his skin. It was the best he could manage with his arms cuffed behind his back.

“Are you okay?” Blackbeard asked when Ben pulled back. The young pirate nodded.
“No permanent damage. What are you doing here?” Blackbeard just gave a shrug.
“Fucked if I know, son.”

“Benjamin, what are you doing up so early?”

He spun around to find King Adam approaching with Fairy Godmother at his side. He should have figured that he’d have something to do with this.

“What’s going on?” Ben demanded, ignoring his question.
“We just wanted to ask Mr Teach a few questions about the night of your disappearance,” Fairy Godmother said soothingly. Ben rolled his eyes.
“I keep telling you I’m not your stupid lost prince!”

There was a beat of uncomfortable silence before Blackbeard spoke up again. “Um, what?” Ben sighed, turning to face his dad.
“Turns out Hook was right. It was all to do with the lost prince.”

Blackbeard’s eyes widened in genuine horror. “Sweet mother of pearl. There goes life as we know it.” Ben was suddenly overcome with a strong urge to laugh. “Yeah… maybe don’t tell him.” He’d only find a way to make it Harry’s fault because, for whatever reason, they’d decided they wanted Ben but not him.

The king cleared his throat and inclined his head. The guards tightened their grip and forced Blackbeard to start moving once more. “Dad!” Ben cried in alarm. Blackbeard smiled reassuringly over his shoulder. “Don’t worry my boy, it’ll be all right.”

The door swung closed behind him and Ben immediately rounded on the king. “I want to be there.” It was Fairy Godmother who spoke up.
“I don’t think that’s such a good—”
“I want to be there,” Ben repeated, cutting her off. “If you’re going to interrogate him I want to see it.” The king watched him consideringly for a moment before nodding. “Very well. I see no reason to hide the truth from you.” Ben just gave a single nod. He was pretty confident they had very different views on what the truth was.

He followed the king and the fairy down a set of stairs to a small, dingy room with no windows and a strong smell of damp. Blackbeard was already in there, tied to a metal chair. Ben itched to go to him.

Fairy Godmother began fixing a metal band with strange engravings around his neck and Ben frowned, a strange sense of foreboding twisting his stomach into knots.

“If you lie,” the king began. “Or if you refuse to answer a question, this band will ensure that you suffer for your impertinence.” Ben’s eyes widened in horror. “That’s barbaric!”
“It’s necessary when dealing with criminals,” the king responded, not even bothering to turn around.

Ben was overcome with a great sense of loathing for the man.

And these are supposed to be the good guys.

Fairy Godmother stepped back next to Ben, her expression solemn.

Blackbeard met the king’s hard gaze with defiant eyes. Collar or no collar he wasn’t going down without a fight. Ben felt a swell of pride as he watched him.

“State your name,” the king said, causing the pirate to roll his eyes.
“Blackbeard.”
“Your birth name.” Ben rolled his eyes this time. They already knew all this.
“Edward Teach.”

The king straightened up a little then and the room seemed to grow more tense with the anticipation.

“Did you or did you not kidnap the prince twenty years ago?” There it was. The big question, the one they’d all been waiting for.
“I did not.”

There was a pause. Nothing. He was telling the truth.

“See!” Ben cried. “I told you—” The king held up a large hand, silencing him.

“Did you order your crew to do it?”
“Nope. Nothing to do with us.”

“Where did you get this boy?” Ben rolled his eyes. What a ridiculous question.

There was a pregnant pause.

Blackbeard’s blood curdling scream suddenly shattered the silence as the metal collar began to glow an angry red. There was a distinct sizzling sound that could just be heard over Blackbeard's cries and the sound of metal scraping against metal as the captain thrashed against his restraints. Were they… burning him?

Instinctually Ben darted forward to help but but Fairy Godmother’s hand shot out, pressing against his chest and forcing him to stay in place. She was unnervingly strong for such a small woman.

“Where did you get this boy?” King Adam repeated, raising his voice over the sound of Blackbeard’s pain.
“At the docks!” Blackbeard cried.

Ben froze. “What?”

Blackbeard sighed, sending Ben a defeated and apologetic look. “I’m sorry,” he croaked out. “I didn’t want to lie to you but I didn’t want you thinking anything bad about yourself because of your circumstances either.”

Ben just stared. He felt like the ground had opened up beneath him and he was now in free-fall with no bottom in sight. Everything he had ever known was a lie. Who am I?

“What circumstances?” The question was barely a whisper but it rang out as clear as if he’d screamed it in the silent room.

“I was at the port,” Blackbeard began with a sigh. “We were getting supplies. Nothing we hadn’t done a hundred times before. Just as I was returning to the ship so we could set sail, I heard crying and I found this tiny baby abandoned in one of the crates. Couldn’t have been more than a week old.”

“Three days,” the king interrupted.
“What?”
“He was three days old!” The king roared, stepping dangerously close to the pirate.

“Well, I didn’t know that,” Blackbeard said with a shrug. “I didn’t know who he was or where he’d come from. I just knew he was a poor, innocent, baby who needed someone to look after him. So I took him with me and raised him as my own.”

It was clear from the king’s expression that he wanted to argue. That he wanted to call Blackbeard a liar and demand he tell them the truth. Use force if necessary. But the collar prevented all of that.

Ben didn’t know what to say, what to think. On the one hand, he wasn’t the son of a pirate captain that he thought he was, the man he’d always thought of as his father had lied to him his whole life. On the other, he’d raised him, trained him, and loved him for as long as Ben could remember. He’d been everything a father should be despite being locked on a prison island full of maniacs. That had to count for something. Right?

Gods, he had never wanted to talk to his friends more in his life. They’d know what to do. Uma would have some good advice, Gil a bright smile and a view on the situation that no one else could fathom, and Harry would be all supportive encouragements and affectionate hugs so Ben didn’t feel so alone. He hadn’t truly known what alone felt like until now.

“In that case, we’re done here,” the king said. Apparently, there had been a few more questions that Ben hadn’t paid attention to. “You will be escorted back to the Isle of the Lost.”

“Can I have a minute?” Ben asked, not taking his eyes off the pirate. The king hesitated a moment before nodding.
“Very well. But FG will remain in here with you. For your own safety, you understand.” Ben was pretty sure the king was the most dangerous person in the room, but he kept the thought to himself.

The door clicked shut behind them and Ben immediately stepped forward, dropping to his knees in front of his adoptive father. “Ben, I am so sorry.” Ben shook his head.
“It’s okay. I get it.”
“I should have told you the truth,” Blackbeard argued. Ben shrugged, they didn't have time to get into this right now.
“It doesn’t matter now,” he dismissed.

“Tell Harry I’m okay.” He said, steering the conversation back to the matter at hand. Blackbeard’s expression immediately changed, contorting with worry. “Tell him not to do anything stupid and that I’ll find my way back to him. One way or another.” Blackbeard nodded.
“I will. Though I can’t guarantee he’ll listen. He’s been going out of his mind with worry since they took you.”

Ben closed his eyes. Guilt and his own worry gnawing at his stomach.

“Look out for him, for all of them.” Again Blackbeard nodded.
“You have my word. Just make sure you look after yourself too.” Ben nodded, getting to his feet.
“Stay safe, Dad.” Blackbeard gave a watery smile.
“Stay safe, son.”

When he exited the room Ben found the king waiting for them. “Are you okay, son?” Ben immediately stiffened at the word.
“Don’t call me that.” Adam sighed, reaching out and squeezing his shoulder with far too much strength for one man.
“I know that must have been hard for you, but it’s better to know the truth. We cannot be ourselves unless we know where we came from.”

Ben sent him a dark look. “I didn’t know the good guys tortured people.” He said quietly. The king’s face paled and contorted and Ben shrugged off his hand, turning on his heels and walking off as fast as he could. He needed some time to himself. He needed to think.

He ended up back in the bedroom that had been designated as his, back on the window seat. He watched the people wandering around, completely oblivious to what was going on. He couldn’t help but envy them a little. They hadn’t had their life completely turned on its head.

He shouldn’t be so surprised that the king was willing to torture villains, but if he was willing to go that far just to guarantee the truth of the information given, then what else was he willing to do? Ben was starting to think that some of the older villains’ stories of their suffering might not be as crazy as he’d previously believed.

He was going to have to do some major recognisance if he had any hope of figuring out this place.

Know thy enemy.

The door opened suddenly and Ben jolted, turning to face the intruder. “Hello, sweetheart,” Belle smiled at him brightly. Her smile faltered as she took him in. “You’re not dressed… are you okay?”

Ben couldn’t help but frown at the comment. He waved a hand vaguely gesturing to the blue pants and yellow t-shirt she’d left at the end of the bed for him the night before to replace the tree-tattered set. It was a frankly ghastly combination that Ben hoped to be rid of as soon as humanly possible.

Belle chuckled softly. “Honey, those are pyjamas.”

She headed over to the door that led to nothing but a small room filled with rails and Ben sent her a confused look. “Pyjamas?” She shot him an equally confused look over her shoulder. “You know, sleeping clothes.” Ben blinked.
“You have separate clothes to sleep in?” Did the excess ever end?

Belle frowned, turning back to him with surprise. “What do you normally sleep in?” She seemed genuinely curious.
“Whatever clothes I wore that day.” He shrugged. “No point in dirtying anything else, never know when you'll be able to get your hands on something new.” 

Belle cocked her head to the side as she watched him. “Wasn’t that uncomfortable? If the clothes you arrived in are anything to go by they don’t look conducive to sleep.” Ben just gave another shrug.
“We make do. It's not like you can sleep too deeply anyway, you never know when you might need to defend yourself. Can't afford to get caught unawares.”

Belle visibly paled and Ben pursed his lips. He didn’t want her pity.

“I’m sorry. That must be a tough way to live.” Ben shrugged.
“It’s all I know.”

They fell into an uncomfortable silence as Belle busied herself with one of a white bag that had been hung up in there and Ben returned to looking out the window. He could just make out the Isle on the horizon line. It gave him an unfamiliar ache in his chest.

“Here,” Belle said, turning back to him with a smile. “Let’s get you into some proper clothes.” Ben eyed the outfit she was holding up with distaste. It was a blue suit that looked like it was going to be far too big on him anyway. This had to be some sort of joke.

“There’s no way I’m wearing that.” Belled frowned, looking at the suite with obvious confusion.
“What’s wrong with it?” She asked. Ben scoffed. What was right with it should be her question.

“It’s a suit,” he stated, genuinely horrified at the thought of putting it on.
“So?”
“It’s blue,” he continued. He could see from her expression that she still wasn’t understanding the problem.
“What’s wrong with blue?”

Ben sighed, rubbing a hand over his face. “I’m a pirate,” he said. “What would ever make you think I’d ever wear something like that?” Belle’s expression softened as she lay the suit on the bed before coming to sit with him on the window seat.

“Would you like to talk about it?” Ben raised an eyebrow but said nothing. “You’ve had a lot of information thrown at you these last few days, your whole life turned upside down. It would be a lot for anyone to process.”

Ben looked at her consideringly before shrugging. “I guess I still don’t really know why I’m here,” he admitted.
“You’re here because it’s your home,” Belle said, clearly confused.
“It’s not though. The Isle is my home.”

Belle opened her mouth to argue but Ben waved her off. “I know that you think I’m the prince, and a prince belongs in a castle, but even if I am the baby you gave birth to, I’ve never been a prince. I’ve never been your son and this has never been, and will never be, my home. I’ve lived my whole life on that island, I have friends there, my heart is there and Blackbeard may not be my father by blood but he’s the only one I’ve ever known. He’s the one who raised me, he’s the one who’s always been there. I know it’s not what you want to hear but it’s the truth.”

“We wanted to be there,” she said quietly, eyes clouded with sorrow. “We searched for so long.” Ben nodded.
“I know.” He’d heard all about the desperate search for the young prince.

“How about we all just try to get to know each other?” She suggested, expression hopeful. “Whether you like it or not, you are the heir to the kingdom and you will need to be prepared for that.” Ben stared at her like she’d grown a second head.
“There must be someone better qualified.” Belle chuckled.
“I’m afraid it doesn’t work like that. It’s your birth right.” Ben shook his head, staring back out the window. This could not be his life.

“I don’t want to be a king. I just want to sail the sea with my family.” It was clear Belle didn’t know what to say to that.

After a few minutes of uncomfortable silence, she got to her feet. “I’ll leave you be. We can talk more later if you’re feeling up to it.” Ben didn’t bother to respond. He just continued looking out the window, deep in thought.

Ben wasn’t sure how much time had passed when there was another knock at the door.

He’d been trying to come up with an escape plan, some way of getting out of here and back to the island. Every time he thought he’d solved it, he came stuck at the barrier. It was impenetrable, yet somehow Auradon could get in and out. He needed to figure out how the hell they managed it before he did anything else. Who knew how long that would take? This was not going to be a simple task.

“Oh, bless my soul. You look just like your mother.” Ben blinked at the older woman who came bustling into the room in a flowery dress with a white apron tied over the top. She had a silver tray in one hand and a black bundle tucked under the other arm.

“My name’s Mrs Potts. I’m the head of housekeeping but I do quite a bit to help out your mom as well.” Ben gave a stiff nod as he wearily eyed the woman, she placed the black bundle on the bed before placing the tray on the coffee table. “Now, these are your clothes. Your mother saved them from the garbage ships and had them cleaned and pressed for you. And I’ve got some food for you too. You must be starving.”

She sent Ben a motherly smile as she drew closer. “I know this must be a lot for you, and I can’t imagine what you’ve been through over the years in that awful place, but you’re safe now. You’ll be feeling right as rein in no time, just you wait.” She patted his cheek affectionately, causing him to startle, before breezing out with a promise to be back and a command to call if he needed anything.

He stared at the door for a long moment feeling like a large wave had knocked him off balance. How was everyone so welcoming and willing to simply accept him because they thought he was the prince, yet they couldn’t even consider that anyone who lived on the Isle of the Lost could be anything more than a villainous reprobate who was up to no good and beyond saving?

Hell, over half the people living there now had been born there. They hadn’t had the chance to be good or evil. It didn’t make sense.

He slowly got to his feet to inspect the tray of food.

Ben was used to feeling hungry. The food supplies sent over from Auradon were never enough to support the ever-growing number of residents properly, and given the poor quality, much of what was received was inedible anyway. Everything had to be rationed and even then there were times when he wouldn’t eat for days.

There was a plate of small pastries and a sandwich that had been cut into four equal triangles. Ben had no idea what any of it actually was, but it looked fresh and healthy and that was already better than anything he had ever had before.

The sandwich was delicious, it had a pinkish-red layer and a brown layer between the two pieces of bread. It tasted both salty like nuts and sweet like nothing Ben had previously experienced. He was surprised to find the combination of the two opposing flavours danced nicely over his palette.

He wolfed it down eagerly, suddenly ravenous and yearning for more.

The pastries were sugary and sweet and soft against his teeth. They made his mouth water.

He longed to share them with Harry, to give him this experience too. His presence alone would make this nightmare much more tolerable.

He tried not to think of Harry too much. To do so was like poking an open wound. He felt like there was a gaping hole in his chest, slowly growing and consuming him piece by piece. A big, empty nothingness that only caused untold misery and pain.

To not have Harry at his side was to be missing a part of himself. The part that belonged to and resided with the other boy was now far away and Ben felt incomplete in a way he’d never experienced before. If anyone had ever doubted the truth of their feelings, they certainly couldn’t now. Ben was a mess.

With a soft sigh, he made his way back over to the window and stared out at the Isle. It was a large black smudge on an otherwise perfect coastline. He gently placed his hand against the glass, eyes intense as he hoped somehow that Harry would know he was thinking of him, missing him.

Ben would reunite them once more. He would find his way back to Harry if it was the last thing he did. He wouldn’t survive otherwise.

Chapter Text

Harry paced the deck of the Lost Revenge as he played absent-mindedly with his hook. The whole island would have heard about Ben’s abduction by the crown by now and no doubt drawn their own conclusions.

Harry couldn’t bring himself to care about the gossip. He just needed to figure out a plan of how exactly they were going to rescue Ben. Or rather, he needed Uma to figure out a plan of how they would rescue him. She was the captain after all. Plans were her job and, more importantly, her speciality.

“You’re gonna wear out the wood if you keep pacing like that.”

Harry’s head snapped up at the sound of Uma’s voice and he found her watching him from the doorway that led below deck. Her arms were folded as she leaned against the frame. It was clear she was trying to be jovial but the set of her shoulders was far too tense and there were tight lines around her mouth and dark circles under her eyes.

She was just as worried as he was. Harry couldn’t help but find it strangely comforting.

“Come on,” she said, pushing off the door frame and heading towards the gangplank, Gil suddenly materialising behind her.
“Where are we going?” Harry asked, his eyes followed her movements but his feet remained still.
“We’re going to meet with Mal.” She said, tone implying it was obvious.

“Are we sure that’s such a good idea? She was only playing nice because of Ben. Now he’s gone…” He’d had no desire to work with Mal in the first place, he certainly didn’t want to have to go to her and ask for help. She’d really get a kick out of that.

“Mal thinks she has a way off the island,” Uma said calmly. “Sounds like a pretty key step for our rescue mission, don’t you think?” Harry grudgingly conceded the point but he certainly wasn’t happy about it.

“Look, all you have to do is sit there and play nice whilst she tells us her dumb plan,” Uma reasoned. “Once we’re outside of the barrier we can ditch them, find Ben and get the hell out of there. Hopefully Ben’ll have an idea for how we get the rest of the crew free, and then we can finally get this ship where she belongs.”

Harry took a deep breath in an attempt to calm his fluttering heart but his anxiety was far too strong to be pacified. “Fine. But we both know she’s not going to make it that easy.” Uma scoffed.
“Please, you’ve got nothing to worry about. I know exactly how to get what we need from that purple-haired wannabe.”

Harry certainly appreciated her confidence, even if he couldn’t bring himself to feel it too. He trusted Uma. He always had and he always would. She’d get them all through this, one way or another.

When they arrived at the arranged meeting place— the dirty alleyway behind Curl Up and Dye since the hair salon was possibly the only place on the whole island that was considered neutral territory— Mal was already there, Jay, Evie and Carlos waiting obediently behind her. She smirked when she saw the pirates approach.

“Well, hey, Shrimpy. I was a little surprised to get your message all things considered.” Harry let out a growl but Uma kept her cool, not even reacting to Mal’s attempt at an insult. “How about we cut the crap and get to the point. You’re the one who needed our help in the first place, remember?”

Mal sneered at the statement, bearing her teeth. “I don’t need your help. I offered Ben a chance at freedom because he could be useful to me. Now he’s out of the picture, the deals off.” Just as Harry had predicted.

Uma snorted, shaking her head. “Oh please, we’ve already established the four of you aren’t capable of taking over Auradon by yourselves. You need us. Especially now we’ve got a man on the inside.”

Harry stiffened slightly at the mention of Ben. Was Uma seriously going to try and use his situation as a bargaining chip? He stayed quiet despite his fury. She better have a damn good plan.

“Oh is that what you’re calling it? I was under the impression he ran away with the King and Queen.” Harry rolled his eyes at that, unable to withhold his snort. “Wow, bullshit really does spread fast around this cesspool,” he said dryly.

Mal shot him a narrow eyes glare. “What’s the matter, Hook? Feeling a little sore since your boyfriend abandoned you?” It took all of Harry’s willpower not to lunge across the small gap between the two groups and strangle her. “It’s cute that ye think that’s an insult. If making digs at people’s sexuality is the best ye can do it’s no wonder yer mom’s always so damn disappointed.”

Mal’s eyes flashed a vivid, angry, green and she turned fully to Harry as if she intended to strike him. Harry wasn’t in the least bit intimidated, he had nearly a foot in height on the girl and at least twice as much muscle. He was more than capable of defending himself.

“Do you really think Ben would be willing to help you without us there?” Uma asked as she stepped pointedly between them. Apparently, her only interest was going to be keeping the conversation on track. She really was a born leader, it gave Harry an unexpected swell of pride.

Mal glared at her with pursed lips. She knew Uma was right and it was obvious that she had no better ideas since she’d been relying solely on her sharp tongue so far. For better or worse they needed each other and they were all keenly aware of it.

“Why don’t you walk me through this plan of yours?” Uma said, arms folding across her chest. “Assuming you have one, of course.”

Mal’s eyes only narrowed further. She hated having her competence questioned. She was the daughter of Maleficent, after all, she had been trained by the best of the best. Well, the worst of the worst. She’d never survive a childhood with her without learning how to come up with an evil plan.

“Of course, I have a plan!” She said indignantly. Uma just raised an eyebrow and waited. Mal gave a light huff when Uma didn’t bite. Grudgingly, she began to elaborate. “Carlos has created a device that can punch a hole in the barrier. We’re gonna use it to get out of here and over to Auradon.” That sounded more like a list of goals than a plan to Harry’s ears.

“How exactly do you plan to get to Auradon from here? Swim?” Uma asked dryly.

Harry couldn’t help but snicker. It was common knowledge that Mal couldn’t swim and had seemingly no intention of learning. Maybe it was the same for her friends and they could just throw them all in the sea the second the barrier was open and be done with it.

Mal gave another huff. “We’re going to use a boat, obviously.” Her tone implied it was a done deal, but it was clear that Uma had her doubts about how much the fairy girl had actually thought this through.

“Do you have a boat?”
“Do you?” Mal shot back.
“Obviously,” Harry cut in. “But I think even Boradon would notice a pirate ship heading their way and we’d need more than the seven of us to man it.”

“Well, clearly I didn’t mean a pirate ship. We need something small and easy to hide. A row boat maybe?” Harry snorted.
“Good luck fitting all of us in one of those.”

“Well, what would you suggest?” She snapped, her eyes once again flashing that eerie green colour with her annoyance.
“The goblins have that motorboat they restored. Maybe we could borrow that?” Gil suggested, catching them all by surprise. Harry hadn’t been convinced he was even listening to the conversation.

Uma raised an eyebrow, her expression both proud and smug. It was obvious Mal didn’t want to agree to it since it was Gil’s suggestion but it didn’t look like they were going to find a better one.

“Do you think you can get a hold of it?” She asked finally.

Uma raised a questioning eyebrow at Harry and he nodded in return. “I’ll make it happen.” One way or another that boat would be theirs. He’d do whatever it took to save Ben.

“Excuse me, but I’m the master thief here. Shouldn’t that be my job?” Jay grouched, expression bitter. Mal rolled her eyes.
“We’re providing a way out, they have to bring something to the table to make it worth them being here.” Jay folded his arms across his chest, clearly not buying the argument. “Can ye even drive a boat?” Harry raised an eyebrow. Jay’s eyes narrowed and he muttered mutinously under his breath but didn’t argue further.

“So what happens once we reach Auradon?” Uma asked, determined to get all the information she needed despite the chaotic nature of the group. “We’re going to find Fairy Godmother’s wand, obviously. It’s the most powerful weapon Auradon has.”

If Maleficent hadn’t had a hand in coming up with that plan Harry would be very surprised. Uma seemed to sense it too, her guard immediately going up.

“And why do we need that? You gonna start cursing people?” Mal rolled her eyes.
“It’s a hostile takeover, we need to be prepared to do whatever it takes. Besides, if we have the wand then they can’t use it against us. It’s a win-win.”

“Alright, we get the wand. Then what?” Mal’s face transformed into a wicked smile. It was more than a little unnerving.
“We find the King and Queen and we kill them.” Harry had never liked Mal, but at that moment he could have hugged her.
“Then you take their place and rule Auradon,” Uma said, finishing the plan with a neat little bow.

“That gonna be a problem, Shrimpy?” Mal asked, tone suddenly taking on a defensive depth. Uma just rolled her eyes.
“Nope, I have no interest in playing queen. I just wanna free my crew and my ship and sail away.”

“About that…” Uma’s eyes narrowed as Mal smirked. “I want Ben.” And just like that Harry was back to feeling nothing but pure hatred for her.

“Ben is not a bargaining chip!” Harry snapped. Uma held up a hand to silence him as Mal’s eyes sparkled with her amusement at Harry’s outburst. She knew exactly what game she was playing.

“Once I’m queen I’m going to need a king to rule by my side. I want him.” Evie made a small, surprised noise. Apparently, this was news to them too.

“I can’t agree to that,” Uma said carefully.
“Can’t or won’t?”
“Ben is his own person, he can and will make his own decisions. It doesn’t matter what I say here and now, it doesn’t mean he’s going to agree to it once we get to him.”

Mal scowled. It was not an attractive look on her doll-like face.

“You’re the captain. You give the orders. He has to do what you tell him.” Uma rolled her eyes.
“Being captain doesn’t work like that. You don’t get anywhere without respect and you don’t earn respect by forcing people to do things against their will. That’s how mutinies happen.”

Mal made a small growling noise which was, frankly, more cute than intimidating and Uma held up her hands in an attempt to pacify the situation. “All I can promise is that if Ben chooses to stay and be your king none of us will stop him or try to talk him out of it. The decision is entirely his to make.”

Mal’s mouth pinched up at the corners in frustration, but Uma stood firm. It was clear that was the best offer Mal was going to get. “Fine,” she relented. Harry barely managed to contain his protest.

His blood slowly boiled as the two girls shook hands on the agreement. “One week,” Mal said firmly. “We’ll wait for you on the shore of the hidden cove behind Castle-Across-The-Way. If you’re not there at midnight we leave without you.” Uma gave a nod, not bothering to ask how exactly they planned to do that without a boat.

The two groups parted ways.

Harry’s hands clenched and unclenched over and over at his side as he fought hard against the urge to punch the dirty wall beside him. He wouldn’t be much use with a broken hand.

“What the hell was that?!” He fumed the second they were out of the other’s earshot. Uma rolled her eyes.
“What exactly was I supposed to do?” She asked, tone annoyingly calm in the face of Harry’s anger.
“I don’t know, maybe not give her Ben?” Uma sighed.
“I didn’t give her Ben. I offered her the illusion of a chance with him. For evil’s sake, Harry, you can’t honestly think he would ever choose her over you?” Harry’s cheeks turned a traitorous shade of pink.
“Well, if it meant being king…”

She made a frustrated noise and pulled a face that showed she was fighting hard against the urge to smack him up the back of the head. “Harry, Ben has no interest in being king. He wouldn’t even leave our crew to be Blackbeard’s first mate. There is nothing he wants more in life than you, you idiot.” Harry’s cheeks only darkened and he scratched awkwardly at the back of his neck.
“Well, when ye put it like that…” he muttered, feeling thoroughly embarrassed.

Uma chuckled, squeezing his shoulder comfortingly. “He loves you, Harry, there’s no doubt about it.” Harry nodded, sending her a grateful smile.

“Now, don’t make me say any of this touchy-feely crap again. I’ve got a reputation to uphold.” Harry barked a surprised laugh and just like that, the tension broke.

Everything would be okay.

When they got back to the ship the trio were surprised to find they had company.

Sitting hunched over on an overturned box— a mug of what Harry suspected was rum in one hand and an incredibly holey blanket draped haphazardly over his shoulders— was Blackbeard.

“Uncle B?” Uma immediately rushed over, cutting through the commotion all around them. “What happened to you?” Her voice was barely above a whisper and the genuine alarm in it made Harry’s blood run cold.

As he drew closer he saw what looked like burn marks on the older male’s neck. Big, blistering, angry welts littered his skin in a perfect ring. What the fuck?

“Who did this?” Harry growled, hand immediately reaching for his cutlass. “I’ll gut them where they stand.” He’d already lost Ben, he couldn’t lose the closest thing he’d ever had to a proper father too.

Blackbeard waved him off, carefully putting the cup down beside him. He winced slightly as he swallowed but his expression was determined. “There’s no fighting Auradon.” He muttered, voice horse and quiet.
“Auradon?” Uma asked, alarmed.

A hysterical laugh forced its way up Harry’s chest and out of his mouth, past his lips. “And they call us villains.”

Gil looked like he was about to be sick.

“It doesn’t matter now,” Blackbeard said dismissively.
“Doesn’t matter?” Uma asked incredulously. “Uncle B they tortured you. How can that not matter?”
“Because I have word on Ben.”

They all immediately fell silent, exchanging looks of total shock. It was clear none of them had expected that.

“What do ye know?” Harry’s voice shook slightly and he had to clear his throat repeatedly. His hands balled into fists at his sides.

Blackbeard gave a heavy sigh, scrubbing a dirty hand over his face. “Well, it turns out your Dad was right,” he said, catching everyone off guard once again. Several pairs of eyes turned to face Harry who had visibly paled.

“What?” His voice was barely a whisper.
“The royals believe Ben is the lost prince. That’s what the inspection was all about, though I still have no idea what they were looking for. I’ve seen every inch of that boy and he has no birthmarks or distinguishable features.”

Harry barely managed to hold his tongue on his agreement. Blackbeard may be pretty relaxed about the kind of relationship he had with his son but the young pirate was pretty confident he did not want a reminder of just what they got up to.

“They weren’t checking for marks. They had a ring that they were waving about. Magic, I think.” Uma frowned.
“But how can that be? There is no magic on the Isle.” Harry gave a shrug.
“No idea. It’s their barrier they probably adjusted it so that specific magic would work.” Uma did not look convinced and Harry couldn’t help but think she was focusing on the wrong thing here.

“So they think he’s the prince?” Harry prodded, for once the one trying to keep everyone on track. Blackbeard nodded.
“They brought me over so that they could interrogate me to find out how I came to have him.” The young trio all exchanged confused looks.

“What do ye mean, ‘how ye came to have him’?” Harry couldn’t help but notice the specificness and care that had been put into choosing the turn of phrase. “Ben’s adopted.”

The older male sent them a small, uncomfortable smile. He clearly felt guilty, but whether it was for keeping this from them for so long or for telling them at all, Harry couldn’t be sure.

“It was twenty years ago. Before the Isle was created. We’d docked in Belle’s Harbour. It was late and we were on a supply run, the plan was to be in and out before anyone even noticed we’d been there. On my way back I heard crying and I found him abandoned in a crate. He was only a few days old. I couldn’t just leave him to die.”

Harry didn’t know what to say. He couldn’t imagine Ben as anything but the fearless pirate he’d always known him to be. It made his head spin to think that he could have had a completely different life. It didn’t make sense. There was no way his boyfriend was secretly a prince.

“So… they think you stole him from them?” Uma asked, slowly trying to piece things together. Blackbeard shook his head.
“We were able to clearly establish that me and my crew were in no way involved with the prince’s disappearance. They’ve got some very… unique ways of ensuring the truth.” All eyes fell to Blackbeard’s neck.

“What did they do to ye?” Harry asked quietly. Blackbeard shook his head.
“Some nasty truth magic. That’s all you kids need to know.” Harry rolled his eyes. He did not appreciate being treated like a child.

No one on the Isle was ever really a child. With the lives they lived and the horrors they faced daily, they all grew up far too fast to ever truly be considered kids.

“Anyway,” Blackbeard said, clearing his throat. “Whilst I was there I managed to have a brief word with Ben. He’s doing fine, they’re treating him well, which I guess is to be expected since they think he’s one of their own. He firmly disagrees of course.” Harry couldn’t help but smile softly at that. “He told me to keep an eye on you lot.” He turned directly to Harry. “And he said to tell you not to do anything stupid. He says he’ll find his way back one way or another.”

Harry felt unfairly called out. He may be a little reckless sometimes but every stupid thing he’d ever done had been sanctioned by Uma… more or less.

“Did he mention how he planned to do that?” The young captain asked, her tone neutral but her body language tense. Blackbeard shook his head. “If he had a plan he didn’t share it, though I’m not sure there’s many ways out of that place without the royal say so.” Harry didn’t know whether to be worried or relieved by all this news.

“We might have a way to rescue him,” Uma said, tone hushed. Blackbeard’s eyes sparkled.
“I figured you probably would sooner or later.” Uma opened her mouth to say more but Blackbeard waved her off. “No, no. The less I know the better. Just make sure you keep my son safe and make sure he knows I love him.”

Uma’s eyes narrowed carefully and Blackbeard sent her a tired smile. “It’s you youngsters’ time now. You need to go out and live your lives however you see fit. Don’t worry about us, we’ve had our time.” None of them knew what to say to that.

They let the older male rest as Harry pulled Uma aside for a quiet word.

“You know what this means right?” Uma just raised a silent eyebrow. “We’re sticking with Mal until the King and Queen are dead.” Uma gave a soft sigh like she’d expected him to say as much. “Harry, that is not a good idea.”
“Ye really think Ben isn’t going to want to avenge this? Ye think he’s just going to let this go?” Uma pursed her lips.
“He’s not Ben’s father.”
“As if that matters. He’s the closest thing any of us have ever had to one.” Harry countered. He was not about to just let this go.

Uma gave another sigh at the clear defiance in his eyes. “Rescuing Ben is our top priority. If we do that and he decides that he wants to help kill them then that’s what we’ll do. But it’s his call, okay?” Harry wanted to argue with her, to point out that this should be a joint decision between all of them, but he knew when to push and now was not the time. “Fine.”

Uma headed back to Blackbeard’s side and Harry found he needed a minute alone. He climbed up into the crow’s nest, leaning heavily on the balustrade as he tried to gather his emotions.

He wasn’t too sure what to think or feel. He was naturally relieved to hear that Ben was okay, but seeing what they’d done to Blackbeard made him feel a little sick.

If they could do that to him as part of an interrogation then what would they do to Ben if he tried to fight them, tried not to fit in? Would they punish their supposed prince for not being an obedient Auradonian slave?

Harry squeezed his eyes shut and took a deep breath. He couldn’t let himself think like that. Ben was okay. Ben was okay and they had a plan. They had this. All he had to do was steal a boat.

Chapter Text

Ben walked aimlessly down another boring corridor. It was identical to every other one in the castle and was making it incredibly difficult for him to get his bearings.

He did his best to ignore the plain-clothed Guard member who had been assigned to keep an eye on him. The king and queen insisted it was simply for his safety but Ben knew better. They wanted to keep tabs on him and make sure he didn’t run away again.

“Hello, darling.” He glanced up from where he’d been inspecting a tapestry that depicted the king and queen dancing to find the queen smiling at him cautiously from a window seat at the end of the hallway, a book open in her lap.

“What are you doing?” Ben shrugged as he slowly inched closer.
“How do you not get lost in here? Everything looks the same.” Belle chuckled as she drew her legs up under herself, making space for him to sit. A silent invitation. “You get used to it. I did a lot of exploring when I first got here myself. Got me into a fair bit of trouble when I went where I wasn’t supposed to.” Ben found that nearly impossible to picture.

“You were a prisoner too, right?” Ben asked, deciding to take the seat. Perhaps if he pretended to show some semblance of interest in this place and it’s inhabitants they’d be more willing to give him the information he needed.

“Sweetheart,” she sighed gently, reaching out to him before promptly aborting the movement and dropping her hand. “You’re not a prisoner.” Ben snorted, shaking his head. “I’m not allowed to leave, I’m followed everywhere I go. How is that not imprisonment?” Belle gave a soft sigh, biting her lower lip in contemplation.

“I know it sounds like a cop-out,” she said finally “but it really is all in your best interest. The whole kingdom is desperate for information, for a glimpse of you after all this time. We don’t want to expose you to the media until you’re ready. We want to prepare you for the kind of hysteria that surrounds us as rulers of the kingdom. It can be a lot to handle.”

Ben frowned but said nothing.

He’d spent his entire life watching glimpses of Auradon on the News Network. It was the only channel they could get on the battered old TV in the Chip Shop. They were constantly showing the royal couple in all kinds of situations, even in some more intimate moments that didn’t really belong on TV.

He’d always jeered at it. Taken it for propaganda and fuel for the Auradon goodness machine. The perfect shot of the perfect king and queen sharing a perfect moment for all the perfect citizens of their perfect kingdom to watch and gush over. He’d never considered what that kind of scrutiny was like from the other side.

“So why put up with it? Why feed the monster?” Belle visibly chose her next words with care.
“The people have a certain view of us, of the kingdom’s history and our place within it. Your father is a hero, he united the lands in a time of darkness, a time when everything was in chaos and villainy reigned supreme. He learned from his dark past and rose up as a great leader; a good man. He defeated evil and ensured it would never again terrorise these lands. He must always live up to that; must keep them believing it to ensure peace continues.”

“The poster people of goodness,” Ben muttered. Belle smirked.
“Quite.”

Ben was silent a moment, contemplating her words. “That sounds… hard. Always having to think about what everyone else thinks.” Belle hummed. “It can be,” she agreed. “But our position comes with a lot of power and if no one were to hold us accountable for what we do with it then we run the risk of doing more harm than good. A good leader must listen to his people. He must be prepared to see things from all sides before he makes a decision.” Ben pursed his lip but said nothing. He found it impossible to imagine the king listening to anyone else’s opinion about anything.

“This must all be quite the adjustment for you,” Belle said after a long pause. “If you have any questions or if there’s anything we can do to help… don’t be afraid to ask. You’re not alone here.”

Ben was unable to contain a derisive snort. “I’ve never felt more alone in my life.” He said flatly.
“Oh, sweetheart, it’ll get easier. You’ve just got to give this place a chance.” Ben would sooner die.

“You seem to be healing nicely,” Belle commented, indicating the angry red line on his cheek that had been a cut only a few days ago. “That purple gunk works wonders.” Ben shrugged.

“What happened that night, when the prince disappeared?” Ben asked after a moment, doing his best to seem curious rather than like he was digging for something. Belle hesitated, eyes turning distant.

“I’m still not entirely sure. We never did get to the bottom of things.” Subconsciously her hand had risen to the chain around her throat and begun fiddling with the ring that hung there. “It was an unseasonably warm night, so we’d left the balcony doors open. I went in to check on you, to see if you needed anything before I went to bed and the crib was empty. I’ve never, ever, felt a fear like that. Before or since.”

Ben didn’t know what to say to that. He couldn’t relate; he had no clue what it was like to be a parent. Let alone one who’d had their child taken from them. Platitudes seemed pointless and insincere so he remained quiet.

“We searched for so long,” Belle continued after a moment, lost in her memories. “Investigators went over the room with a fine-tooth comb, we even tried tracking magic but nothing worked. It was as though you’d vanished from existence. There was no evidence to suggest anyone else was ever there and without any leads…” she trailed off, clenching her eyes shut. Ben wondered how long it had been since she’d spoken about this.

“Is it true what they say? That that was why the Isle was created?” Belle sent him a weary smile.
"Not exactly. We’d been trying to find a solution to the Villain problem for many years. The kingdoms couldn’t keep fighting indefinitely, the people were tired, losing faith. The idea had been floating around for a while, your father had come up with it but he needed the full support of the council to push it through. Some thought it would be inhumane, that we would be better off educating and trying to rehabilitate rather than locking all villains away. Your disappearance did push everyone in favour. After all, if you could do something like that to an innocent child then was there anything left worth redeeming?”

Ben frowned, taken aback by how easily Auradon had washed its hands of the villains and its commitment to finding a proper solution. “So you figured you’d just lock them up and forget they ever existed. The problem would just go away if you ignored it for long enough?” Belle sighed. “We couldn’t see any alternative at that point. These people were dangerous, they were a very real threat to the kingdoms.”

Ben couldn’t exactly argue with that. The villains were dangerous, and not one of them regretted what they’d done. Any one of them would try again in a heartbeat if they were given the chance.

“What about the kids?” Ben asked. “They’re innocent. They’ve been trapped under there fighting for their lives with a bunch of raving lunatics. They haven’t had the chance to do anything, good or bad.” Belle sent him a sympathetic look.
“Growing up like that… I cannot imagine what it must do to a person. But that’s exactly why they must stay where they are. The effects of the Isle, of the villains, it makes them too unpredictable, uncontrollable. They’re their own kind of danger and Auradon is not equipped to deal with it.” Ben felt his expression sour and looked away.

“What makes me so special?” He muttered, anger causing his voice to tremble slightly.
“You are our son.” She said simply.
“Lucky me,” Ben said bitterly.

Ben watched the sun slowly sinking on the horizon and sighed. Despite how miserable he was, he couldn’t deny that Auradon was a beautiful place.

He’d managed to ditch his guard for a while by climbing out of the bathroom window and had ended up at the very top of one of the castle’s towers, sitting on the window ledge. It was the closest he could get to feeling like he was up in the crow’s nest back on the Revenge. It brought him the slightest sense of peace.

The room behind him was sun-bleached and empty of furniture. It had the musty air of neglect that told him that the room hadn’t been used with any sort of regularity in a long time. He wasn’t expecting to be disturbed.

He sighed softly and ran his fingers absently over the stitching on his bracelet. He’d never thought it possible to miss someone so much.

He hoped Blackbeard had passed on his message, but with every day that passed the likelihood of getting out of Auradon seemed to lessen. He had no idea where to even begin trying to break through the barrier. It had kept him on that stupid island for twenty years. He’d never imagined it would keep him off of it too.

There was a loud creak of the hall floorboards just outside the door and Ben was immediately moving into a defensive position, crouching on the sill. He may not be allowed to carry his cutlass around with him but that didn’t mean he couldn’t put up a fight.

The door swung inwards and Ben was surprised to find himself faced with a girl about his age. She had dark hair that fell just below her shoulders in glossy waves, and pale blue eyes that were wide and filled with panic at the sight of him. Her features were delicate and soft giving her an almost elfin look.

She wore a pale blue sundress with a pale pink bow around her waist and pumps in the same shade. The bow seemed to be a theme for her since her earrings and necklace also featured them, once again in the same pale pink.

“I’m so sorry!” She blurted, stepping backwards slightly. “There’s not normally anyone in here.”

Surprised by the statement, Ben cocked an eyebrow. “So why are you here?” He did his best not to sound hostile but only partly succeeded, the question coming out accusatory instead. “I… I like the view,” she said, eyeing him wearily. “And I like the peace and quiet. There aren’t many places here where you can escape the sycophants and phonies.”

Ben considered her a moment before slowly shifting back into a seated position. Clearly, she wasn’t a threat.

“Why are you here?” She asked suddenly, tone annoyed as though she’d just realised that he was, in fact, the odd one out in this situation. Ben shrugged. “Not really got anywhere else to be.” The girl frowned slightly, clearly unsure of what to make of that.

“You must be Prince Benjamin,” she said finally, stepping slightly closer; daring herself to approach.
“Ben,” he said quickly, grimacing at the title and full name. “Just Ben.” She smiled shyly.
“Well, I’m Jane. Fairy Godmother’s daughter.” That explained her presence in the castle when it seemed no one was allowed in or out.

They stayed silent for a while and slowly Jane made her way over to the window, tentatively perching at the other end of the ledge. She studied him for a long moment and Ben did his utmost to appear like he hadn’t noticed and didn’t care even if he had.

“How are you finding things so far?” Ben snorted, rolling his eyes.
“Restrictive.” He couldn’t really say much else for the land of the heroes when leaving his room had become a luxury.

Jane pulled a face. “It’s so stupid how controlling they’re being. I understand wanting to keep you from the media scrutiny but there has to be a better way of doing it than locking you up here. How are you ever going to learn the ways of Auradon if you can’t even see it?” Ben shrugged. He wasn’t particularly bothered about learning Auradon’s ways but that didn’t mean he didn’t appreciate the sentiment.

“It must be hard,” she said finally. “Being pulled away from everyone and everything you’ve ever known.” Ben’s head snapped towards her, his surprise clear.

“You’re the first person to say that,” he mumbled, eyebrows drawing together in confusion.
“Well, you weren’t given a choice in any of this and I can’t imagine two places being more different than Auradon and the Isle.” She shrugged.

Ben just continued to stare at her, baffled. Perhaps she was a loneliness-induced hallucination.

“All anyone wants to tell me is how much better off I am now.” Jane seemed to consider this a moment before shrugging.
“Well, objectively speaking Auradon has a far greater number and higher quality of resources, so.” Ben sent her a bemused expression and she laughed. “They believe they’ve done what’s best for you by bringing you here. If they put a positive enough spin on it they’re hoping you’ll feel the same way.” Ben gave a heavy sigh, shaking his head.
“No amount of unspoiled food and running water is going to make up for the things I’ve lost.”

“You left people behind.” It wasn’t a question.
“Friends, family, my heart.” Ben shrugged. “Nothing anyone seems to care about anyway.”
“I’m sorry.” She said simply, her expression genuine. Ben gave a nod, unsure of what to say.

“Do you want to talk about it?” She asked, shifting position so that she was more comfortable and bringing them a little closer together. Ben raised an eyebrow. “About what?” Jane shrugged.
“The Isle, your family, your lover, any of it really.” She rested her chin on her knee and shrugged. “I can’t imagine you’ve had much opportunity so far.”

Ben found himself staring at her, once again at a loss for words. Were all the youth of Auradon so open-minded?

Unsure of how much he could trust her with, Ben decided to start with something simple—common knowledge.

“Well, I’m a pirate.” To Ben’s surprise, Jane’s eyes lit up with excitement.
“Tell me everything.”

“There’s not much to tell,” Ben said after a moment. “We can’t really do any sailing with the barrier trapping everyone in place.” Jane just shrugged, undeterred.“So what do you do?”
“Maintain the ship, cause general mischief, protect the territory,”
“Territory?” Jane frowned. “Have you created some sort of leadership system then?” Ben snorted shaking his head.
“It’s more… gang activity.” He took a little too much satisfaction in how Jane visibly paled at the thought.

“That sounds… intense.” She said finally, causing Ben to laugh.
“You could say that,” he agreed with a smirk.

“But what about your friends and family? Tell me about them.” Ben frowned, why was she being so insistent about this? “Or don’t if you don’t want to.” She backtracked, eyebrows drawing together slightly.

“How about you tell me all your secrets.” To his surprise, Jane laughed.
“Well, I don’t personally consider my friends and family a secret. Not that I exactly have many of either.” Ben frowned, he hadn’t expected her honesty.

“It’s not personal.” He said after a moment of awkward silence. “But where I’m from, trust is hard to come by.” Jane nodded, seeming to relax a little. “I will keep that in mind.”

“How much do you know about the Isle?” Ben asked randomly, deciding to test the theory that had been circling his mind.
“Uh, not a lot,” Jane admitted, frowning slightly as though unsure of where the conversation was going. “I know it was created twenty years ago as a prison for the Villains. It’s supposed to keep the Kingdom safe from evil by keeping it locked away.” She shrugged. “We’re not really allowed to ask questions beyond that.”

Ben nodded slowly, lips pursing. He’d expected as much.

It begged the question, if it was kept so hushed up, how was he going to find out the information he needed?

“Why?” Jane asked. Ben shrugged.
“I just think the history I know and the history you know are a little different.” To his surprise, Jane grinned.
“I might be able to help with that.” Ben raised an intrigued eyebrow, maybe this girl could be more useful than she seemed. “The Cultural History Museum.”

Ben did his best not to let his expression sour too much. He’d been hoping for something more… interesting than that.

“I’m not allowed to leave the castle.” Jane just shrugged dismissively.
“The museum is technically closed on Mondays, but since you’re the prince I think it should be pretty easy to get a private tour of the place. Queen Belle’s all about learning and the preservation of knowledge, it shouldn’t be difficult to convince her.”

Ben considered the proposition. As much as he didn’t really want to visit some boring old museum it could prove to have some useful information, and it would mean getting out of the confines of the castle for a while.

“Alright. Sounds like a plan.”

Chapter Text

Harry watched the goblins as they went about their business, unloading the supply ships and preparing the stuff to be brought into the main square where it would be fought over by the Isle’s residents until there was nothing left.

It was like piranhas at feeding time and Harry was sure most people had no idea what they were grabbing most of the time. They just wanted as much as they could get and they’d figure out what to do with it later. It was always useful to have things to trade or sell.

He was overcome with a painful tug of longing as he thought about the last time he’d been here, distracting Ben on his birthday so the others could set up for the party. He’d never have thought that that was going to be their last visit here together. He never could have predicted what would happen next. God he missed him.

He shook himself forcefully out of his memories and did his best to focus on the task at hand. He needed to figure out how he was going to get hold of this speed boat. It was tied to one of the smaller jetty's, out of the way of the main wharf where the supply ships docked. It had a dirty blue tarp over it, whether to protect it or hide it Harry wasn’t sure. Either way it was not doing its job.

It was clear he wasn’t going to get anywhere near it until the wharf was empty and that wasn’t likely to happen until nightfall. He also had to figure out where they’d left the keys. Sure he could hot wire it, but that was time consuming and time was not going to be on his side. He needed to get out of there as quickly as possible.

He debated going to Ursula’s and getting food and then coming back later but he knew Uma would have his head. He also knew he would never forgive himself if he missed an opportunity. Ben needed them to get this done.

He continued to watch from his spot, hidden from the view of those on the wharf. He stayed their for what felt like hours, watching the goblins running this way and that, piling things up and shouting at each other in angry tones.

Every so often a goblin would make a noise of delight, apparently having found something of value. Carefully putting it in a separate pile to the stuff that was going to the citizens. He couldn’t help but be curious, there was never anything of true value in the supplies. Was that intentional on Auradon’s part or was it just the greedy little creatures sorting through it claiming it all before anyone else had the chance?

Once they’d finally finished their job, the goblins began loading everything precariously onto pallets, ready to move it to the main square. They began to move out and Harry watched as a pair of goblins stayed behind. Instead of helping to move the pallets they began moving the small pile of apparent valuables, taking them to a small building made entirely of corrugated metal sheets. Harry had previously taken it to be some sort of outhouse.

If they felt comfortable keeping their valuables in there then maybe the keys would be in there too.

He watched as they re-emerged, seeming very pleased with themselves, and made their way towards the main square to help the rest of the goblins offload all the leftovers.

Knowing he wouldn’t have much time, Harry took his chance.

He snuck down to the dock and made straight for the little metal shed. He spared a quick glance over his shoulder to make sure the coast was still clear before ducking inside.

The shed was filled with all sorts of different things. Food items that hadn't yet started to decay, jewellery that was clearly real metal rather than the plastic kind that sometimes made its way into the girls outfits, something that looked like a broken wand. It was fascinating.

Forcing himself to focus, Harry began to search for the keys. He checked every pile of junk, every broken cabinet and draw, every wonky shelf, every nook and cranny in the place. Nothing. He swore under his breath, hands clenching into fists at his side. Now what?

The sound of approaching feet and unintelligible words caught his attention and he quickly slipped out the door and behind the wall that was alarmingly close to the edge of the wharf. He pressed himself flat against the metal sheet, balancing precariously.

His heart raced as he stood there, ears straining to try and hear what was going on— where they were, how many of them. It felt impossible.

He heard the sound of retreating footsteps and slowly peered around the side of the little building. Three goblins were heading towards the docks entrance, their backs all facing him. He took a breath to try and steady himself before making a move.

He ran full pelt across the wharf, using the many years of his fathers training— that he usually actively tried to forget— to his advantage. Light on his feet, practically soundless in his movements, he was across the wharf and crouching by the small motorboat with no one any the wiser. He could do this.

He carefully crawled beneath the tarpaulin, keeping low to avoid attention as he tried to figure out how to get the boat to start. If the goblins had managed to rebuild the damn thing then it couldn’t be that difficult. Right?

He began examining the main console, just below the steering wheel when he noticed the small box hidden beneath. He pulled it out and sifted through its contents. Most of it appeared to be emergency supplies, not that the damn thing was ever going to get out to sea to need them.

At the very bottom, hidden beneath a ratty blanket was a set of keys. Harry’s eyes immediately lit up with excitement. Surely they hadn’t been that stupid?

With slightly shaking hands he carefully took the keys and slotted them into the ignition. It took him a couple of tries to steady himself enough but eventually they slid in perfectly. Holy shit!

His heart beat so loudly in his chest as he reached to turn the key that he was positive someone had to be able to hear him. As the key turned in his grip the engine roared to life, louder than he’d expected. Time to go.

He jumped to his feet, shucking the tarpaulin as shouts sounded not too far away. He had to get out of there quickly.

It was then that he realised the boat was still tied to the docks. “Fuck!” He hissed, diving down to try and undo the knot as fast as he could. He was hyper aware of the rapidly approaching footsteps and it was not helping his concentration.

Frustration getting the better of him, Harry gave up on the small, tight, goblin-made knots and pulled out his cutlass, slashing through the rope with one swift swing.

He immediately dropped it on the deck, leaping at the control consul and getting the boat moving as quickly as he could.

He tore out of there just as the small hoard of screeching goblins reached the dock. They jumped up and down with anger and shouted at him, shaking their tiny fists in his direction as he shrunk into the distance.

Harry whooped with delight, the wind rushing past him as he took the corner at speed, barely managing to make the tight turn around the north side of the island without crashing into the barrier. Despite the seriousness of the situation he couldn’t deny the rush. Stealing things was always fun and he lived to sail. This was his perfect heist.

The sun was just starting to set as Harry pulled the motorboat up alongside the Lost Revenge, making sure to keep it the side farthest from the docks so no one would see it.

Jonas’ head peered down at him with a wicked grin. Harry sent him a salute in greeting as he retrieved his blade. Jonas almost immediately disappeared from view before reappearing seconds later, Uma in toe. “Harry! Any trouble?” He immediately shook his head, grinning manically with the last of the adrenaline still coursing through his veins. “We’re good to go, Captain.” She nodded, expression pensive.
“All right then. Let’s do this.”

She gathered Gil from wherever he’d been and the pair descended down a rope ladder to the small motorboat.

“Where are we heading once we've picked up the others?” Harry asked, still a little bitter that they’d had to involve Mal and co in their rescue mission.
“They’re supposed to be at the cove behind Castle-Across-the-Way at midnight. From there Mal wants to head to the Isle of the Doomed to actually set off this device.” Harry rolled his eyes at that.
“Of course she does.” He muttered.

Only Mal would want to complete her escape plan at her mother’s former hideout.

Harry manoeuvred more carefully now that they were lacking natural light, taking it slower as he made his way around to Castle-Across-the-Way. The last thing he wanted was to crash before they’d even gotten out of the barrier.

He was not looking forward to the ride over to the Isle of the Doomed from the main island. That strip of water was always far choppier than the rest of the Isles water and the former hideout was edged with sharp rocks near it's shoreline. It was a sailor's worst nightmare.

They slowly approached the alcove that sat nestled between the cliffs just below Evil Queen’s castle. Within sat a small stony beach where the other four stood waiting for them. Harry could just see Mal pacing back and fourth as the others waited patiently. Carlos appeared to have a large black box tucked under his arm protectively. It must have been the device he was going to use to break them out of this hell hole.

They pulled up as close as they could to the beach without running aground. “Ye coming or what?” Harry called, catching their attention.

Mal stared at them with obvious disbelief. “How do you expect us to get on when you’re all the way out there?” Harry rolled his eyes. She clearly knew nothing about how boats worked. He was looking forward to seeing the horror when she realised she was going to have to get wet. “How were you planning on getting on?” Uma called back, her tone filled with amusement.

Mal glared at them, folding her arms across her chest. “Come closer,” she snapped. Harry gave a nonchalant shrug.
“Can’t.” Mal opened her mouth to argue but Uma cut in before she could, too eager to put her in her place. “If we try to get any close we’ll run aground. The boat will be as good as useless. You’ve got to come to us.”

Mal continued to glare though it was obvious how nervous she was. “You know I can’t do that.” Uma rolled her eyes and Harry had to fight hard against the urge to laugh. “Can any of you swim?” They awkwardly glanced between each other and Harry did laugh this time. It was too perfect.

“I can doggy paddle.” Carlos offered awkwardly. “But I can’t get this wet.” He indicated the black box. Uma ran a frustrated hand over her face and shoved at Harry’s shoulder as a warning to shut up. He bit down hard on his tongue but couldn’t stop grinning.

“Come out as far as you can,” Uma sighed. “Gil will help you the rest of the way.” Harry expected protest but Gil just looked excited to be trusted with something. He was too good for this place.

Harry watched as one by one Mal and the others waded out as far as they could before Gil went in to help pull them the rest of the way. By the time they were all onboard the deck was sopping and all five of them were shivering. They probably should have prepared for this.

Wordlessly Harry handed his jacket over to Gil. It was too small for him to wear properly but he was able to awkwardly wrap it around him as an extra layer until he dried off a little.

Jay and Carlos sat huddled up together, Jay holding the smaller boy close to his side. Jay was mumbling softly into the other boy’s hair and Harry had to fight hard not to comment on it. He’d known the thief had been hiding something after his little rant when he’d first tried to recruit Ben on Mal’s behalf. He probably shouldn’t be that surprised.

“Ye know,” he called casually over his shoulder as he turned back to the steering wheel and got the boat moving once more. “Ye’ll warm up quicker if ye strip off and huddle together. Share body heat.”
“You’re a pervert.” Evie bit out vehemently.

Harry snorted. He hadn’t realised she knew that she could in fact talk without Mal’s express permission.

“I can assure ye, no one wants to see yer lady bits, sweetheart.” He responded dryly. “But, hey, if ye want to sit their dripping and freezing that’s up to ye. I was just trying to be helpful.”

A heavy, awkward silence hung over them as they made their way towards the smaller island. It was not going to be a fun little mission, that much Harry was sure of. If it wasn’t for Ben he wasn’t sure he’d be bothering. Even with their freedom on the line.

Harry slowed as they began to approach the Isle of the Doomed, the water’s becoming almost immediately choppier. “On the far side of the island there’s a ledge where we can moor the boat out of view from the main island. We’ll do it there.” Harry immediately glanced at Uma for confirmation. Instead of arguing with Mal the pirate captain just nodded. Harry hoped she was right or this was going to get very messy.

Getting around to the far side was a mission in itself, the boat being thrown too and throw by the waves. Harry had to fight hard against the current and by the time the ledge Mal had mentioned came into view, all four of the non-pirates were looking a little green.

“All right, we’re almost there.” Harry said cheerfully. “No one throw up in my boat.”

“Technically it’s not yours,” Gil pointed out. Harry rolled his eyes.
“I stole it, that makes it mine.”
“That should be the Isle’s motto,” Jay said weakly. Harry grudgingly snorted. As much as he hated to give Jay credit, that one was funny.

The ledge was a few feet above sea level so they had to climb a little up the rough cliff edge to reach it. There was also, of course, no cleat to tie the boat to so Harry was forced to make do with a very large rock and hope it would hold. If they got stranded here he would murder Mal.

He came to stand with Uma and Gil as they watched the other four. They were all attempting to gather themselves, either leaning against the rock face or sitting as they breathed as deeply as they could. Harry couldn’t quite believe what he was seeing.

“Ye do realise the trip over to the mainland is gonna be worse, right?” Carlos looked up at him with genuine horror and he almost felt sorry for the younger lad. “It’s gonna be open water, ye’ll have the might of the whole ocean, not just the crappy little waves we get under here.” Evie visibly paled at the thought.

“Okay,” Uma called as she clapped her hands together. “How about we forget about that and instead focus on the here and now. Like, how exactly we’re getting this barrier open?” All eyes promptly turned to Carlos where he had his head between his knees, Jay gently rubbing his back. “Give me a minute,” he mumbled, awkwardly flapping a hand at them.

Harry pinched at the bridge of his nose and forced himself to take a deep breath. They did not have time for this.

Once Carlos had regained some composure, he got up onto shaky legs and came to stand towards the edge of the ledge. “Everyone stand back, I don’t know how big the blast will be.” Harry immediately took a very large step back.

“What do you mean you don’t know?” Uma asked in disbelief. “Haven’t you tested it?” Carlos shook his head.
“It’s kind of a one and done thing. We’ve just go to hope it’s not so big that everyone notices. That’s the last thing we need.” Personally, Harry thought the last thing they needed was for the blast to be so strong that it vaporised them all but he decided it was better not to put the idea in everyone's heads. 

Carlos pressed a few buttons and twisted a few knobs before holding the device out in front of him at arms length. Harry subconsciously pulled Gil and Uma behind him as they all watched with anticipation.

A final button press and a thin bolt of blinding blue-white light blasted violently out from the device and directly upwards. Carlos yelped with surprise at the intensity, dropping the device and jumping backwards away from it.

As quickly as it started the light stopped, leaving the smoking device sitting on the floor making a slight clicking noise.

There was a beat of tense silence as they all exchanged bewildered looks. “Was it supposed to do that?” Uma asked, stepping out from behind Harry. “Sort of.” Carlos scratched awkwardly at the back of his neck as he stared down at the box.
“Sort of?” Harry repeated incredulously.
“It wasn’t supposed to be so volatile, I was meant to be able to control it. It was meant to be like a laser cutting through the magic, not a giant blast.”

They all stared up into the night sky. It was impossible to see what damage might have been caused by the device. Uma’s necklace had a slight glow to it and she seemed to be staring at Mal who was staring down at her flexing fingers with an expression of wonder.

“Now what?” Harry asked, an uncomfortable knot starting to form in the pit of his stomach.
“Now nothing,” Carlos sighed as he poked at the device with a booted toe. “It’s completely fried.”
“So fix it.” Carlos sent him an apologetic look.
“That could take months. You never know when the right scraps are gonna come over on the boats.”

Harry gave a slightly hysterical laugh. Uma and Gil exchanged a worried look. “So ye’re telling me, all this scheming and planning and bullshit and ye can’t get us out of here.” Carlos shook his head.
“I guess not.”

Harry kicked out at a rock, screaming in frustration. “Ye have got to be fucking kidding me!”

He felt Uma’s hand on his bicep but he shook it off, stalking towards Mal and pointing an accusatory finger. “Ye said he could do it! Ye swore it would work!”

“Hey, back off Hook!” Jay snapped, his arm shooting out to block Harry’s path. “We’re all disappointed it didn’t work.”
“No!” Harry snapped turning his glare on the thief. “Ye do not get to pretend this is the same! None of ye are any worse off for this, meanwhile I’ve lost everything!”
“Harry!” Uma snapped, tone imploring him to stop talking. “That’s enough.”

Another hysterical bubble of laughter that sounded dangerously close to a sob escaped Harry’s lips as he stalked away from Jay and dropped down on the floor, hands gripping tightly onto his head as he tried to get hold of himself.

All he could think about was Ben. How he was depending on them and how now it was a pretty good chance he was never gonna see him again. The pit in his chest that he’d been doing his damnedest to ignore since Ben’s abduction seemed to have doubled in size and it ached unbearably.

Uma gripped tightly on his shoulder, squatting down beside him. “We will figure this out,” she promised. “Whatever it takes.” Harry shook his head, furiously fighting back tears. “We’re never gonna get him back.”

Carefully Carlos approached. “For what it’s worth, I’m really sorry.” He sent Harry a small, nervous smile and Harry just gave a single nod. He didn’t have it in him to play nice any more.

“So I was right.” Mal grinned triumphantly. “You do have a thing for Ben.”
“A bit more than a thing,” Jay muttered under his breath. Uma sent him a glare in response.

Mal drew closer, all faux understanding and sympathy. “Did you really think he’d choose you over me?” Harry rolled his eyes.
“He has been for years,” he shot back. Uma gave his shoulder a warning squeeze, once again telling him to shut up, but Harry couldn’t see the point after everything.

“Do you want to be left here to swim back?” Uma snapped as Gil stepped up closer, his arms folded in an attempt at intimidation. Harry appreciated the effort even if the execution was poor.

“Do you want me to tell everyone that your precious first mate is in love?” Mal shot back.
“Ye can say what ye want,” Harry sighed. “It’s not like it matters now.” It seemed no one had a response for that.

Once they were safely back on the Revenge, much to the confusion of the rest of the crew, Harry climbed up to the crows nest, desperate to be alone. He slumped against the balustrade, staring out hopelessly towards Auradon.

He felt another tug of longing and finally allowed his eyes to fill with tears.

I’m so sorry, Ben.

Chapter Text

Jane was right. Belle had been incredibly easy to convince. She’d taken to the idea almost immediately, seemingly delighted that Ben was not only taking an interest in the kingdom but making friends whilst he was at it.

Adam had been a harder nut to crack. Luckily for Ben, the king was completely whipped, and all it took was a few words from Belle to sway him. As long as they had guards with them. Ben was more than willing to put up with the added eyes if it meant he had some semblance of freedom.

The necessary arrangements were made and first thing the next morning Ben found himself waiting on the front steps of the castle beside Jane, a small army of castle guards surrounding them.

“You ready?” She asked as a huge blacked-out car pulled up in front of them.
“Uh, yeah.” Ben enthused. He was desperate for a small taste of freedom.

Their not-so-small band piled into the car and Ben found himself glued to the window, staring in awe at everything Auradon had to offer. It was so green, so luscious. The trees had leaves, the people were smiling under a clear sky and bright sun. It was nothing like the Isle. Ben supposed he could understand the appeal.

“Is it always like this?” He asked Jane where she sat beside him, watching him with poorly concealed amusement.
“Pretty much.” Ben couldn’t help but be annoyed by how impressive the place was. It made it harder to hate it.

The car pulled up in a small courtyard in front of a grand building that looked more like a small castle than a museum. “Is everything here this fancy?” He asked as they all climbed out into the warm air. Jane shrugged.
“Not everything, but most of Auradon City used to be a castle, they just repurposed a lot of the buildings after the kingdoms united and the other rulers made their homes in their own lands.”

They made their way up the front steps and Ben couldn’t help but feel strange, stuck in the middle of the protective circle of palace guards. The museum’s security guard looked sufficiently alarmed when he laid eyes on the armed procession that awaited him as he opened the door for them.

“This is highly irregular,” he muttered as he scratched at his balding head beneath his uniform cap. He eyed them all suspiciously as they entered and the guards immediately began checking the space was clear. What trouble they thought was going to be waiting for them in a museum, Ben didn’t know. No one dangerous was ever going to be hiding out in a museum.

“All clear,” The head guard called from down the hall causing the others to relax.

He marched back into the foyer and planted himself in front of Ben and Jane, towering over both of them. “We will be patrolling the general area. You’re free to roam at your leisure but you will stick together and if there is any funny business it will immediately be shut down and we will bring you straight back to the castle by any means necessary. Is that understood?” Jane nodded vigorously and Ben rolled his eyes before nodding once in agreement.

The guard gave him a long hard look before finally stepping back, allowing them past.

“So what do you want to see first?” Jane asked as they stood staring up at the many different arrows directing them towards the different exhibits. Ben had not expected there to be quite so many. Who wants to look at a bunch of flags?

“What’s going to have the most information on, like, the Isle and pre-isle histories?” Jane hesitated a moment, lips pursing in thought as she looked up at the various options. “I suppose the Hall of Heroes would be the best place to start.” She said finally, sending Ben a nervous sideways glance. Ben nodded. “Lead the way then.”

They traipsed along the winding corridors. They reminded Ben of the King and Queen’s castle, it had the same grandeur and age to it that left him feeling like he’d stepped back in time.

“Let me know if you want to leave at any point.” Ben raised his eyebrow at the statement and Jane only shrugged. “This might be difficult for you to see.” Ben only rolled his eyes in response. What could Auradon possibly have to say that was worse than the things he’d already seen and done?

Ben stopped short of entering at the sight that greeted him.

Each so-called hero had their own section. Large plaques detailed their stories and various artefacts from each ordeal were proudly displayed alongside photographs of those involved.

He began a slow circuit of the room, reading every plaque word for word. It became quickly apparent that the stories had been sugar-coated for the public’s consumption. They all followed the exact same format. Hero was going about their life, minding their own business, when evil attacked out of nowhere causing them to step up and save the day, defeating the villain in the process.

“Surely people don’t really believe this bullshit?” He frowned, turning to Jane where she’d taken a seat on one of the window ledges. She raised a confused eyebrow in return. “What do you mean?”

“Oh come on!” he said waving an arm around vaguely to encompass all the absurdity. “Nothing in life is ever this black and white. I mean, I’m pretty sure all these villains didn’t just wake up one morning like ‘Hmm you know what I’m gonna do today? Ruin some random royal’s life for no reason.’ There’s always a motive and a significant amount of planning behind this stuff.” Jane shrugged.
“Well, I wouldn’t know about all that, but I can tell you that these are the only versions of the stories they’ve ever told here.”

Ben stared at her in disbelief, unable to process the true extent of the secrecy and lies.

“So that’s it? No accountability, just the same good versus evil, us versus them, nonsense they’ve been peddling since they locked us all up?”

Jane’s expression was thoughtful. “What exactly were you expecting to find here?” Ben hesitated a moment, unsure of how to answer.
“I don’t know,” he admitted. “I guess I was hoping to find something I didn’t already know. Something that might actually come close to a legitimate justification for all the suffering I’ve spent my whole life surrounded by.”

Jane pursed her lips a moment before getting to her feet and slowly approaching. She hesitated a moment before placing a hand on his shoulder. Ben immediately stiffened at the unexpected contact. “I’m sorry,” she said simply, squeezing gently before letting her hand fall to her side. He gave a single nod, momentarily lost for words.

“I don’t suppose there’s anything on the Isle in here that’s actually worth reading?” Jane shook her head and Ben sighed. “Then I guess that's me done.”

Jane considered this a moment before a small smile graced her features. “Wanna go look at some swords?” Despite everything, Ben felt himself immediately brighten. “Swords?” Jane chuckled and inclined her head.
“Come on. They’ve got Excalibur on loan from Camelot at the moment.” Ben couldn’t fight a small grin.
“Badass.”

“So what did you think of the museum?”

The second Ben had stepped back through the palace doors he’d been accosted by Queen Belle and a short, grey-haired man that she’d introduced only as the royal tailor. He’d soon found himself standing on a raised platform whilst the man took detailed measurements of seemingly every inch of his body and huffed and puffed every time Ben dared to move.

“It was okay,” he lied as he fought the urge to scratch his nose. “Not as detailed as I would have liked.”

In truth, Ben was fuming. It felt like without even trying Auradon was thwarting his every move. Surely it shouldn’t be this difficult to find what ought to be basic information.

“Well,” Belle said, her smile clear in her tone. “Once we’re done here I may be able to help with that.” Ben instinctively turned to face her only to immediately be forced back into position with rough hands and an aggravated tut. “How?” Belle chuckled warmly.
“You’ll see.”

The second Ben was freed he was off the step and moving towards the door. He sincerely hoped he never had to do that again.

“Slow down.” Belle laughed as she followed him. Ben rolled his eyes but fell into step with her anyway. He had no choice but to let her lead.

“You and Jane seem to be getting on well,” she commented, eyebrow raised. Ben shrugged.
“She’s alright I guess.” He hadn’t exactly put much thought into it.

Nothing he said or did was anything more than a means to an end. He was fighting to survive here just as much as he had been on the Isle. At least there he’d had people he could trust to have his back. In Auradon he was completely alone.

“It’s okay to admit you’ve made a friend, you know?” Belle said tone amused even if she somehow managed to keep a straight face. “Or… if perhaps you even liked her, that would be okay too.”

Ben stopped dead in his tracks, disbelief completely taking over. How could she even think of implying such a thing?

“I barely even know her!” He said in disbelief. “And in case you’ve forgotten, I already have someone. He’s trapped under the barrier probably worrying himself sick.” Belle pursed her lips but said nothing. Ben wasn’t sure if that was better or worse than arguing, at least then he’d be able to tell her how wrong she was.

“Here we are.” Belle smiled as they stopped in front of a large set of double doors, their wood just as ornately carved as every other door in the palace. Though pretty, their images gave no indication of what was held within.

Ben looked at her expectantly and she gave a slight huff at his lack of enthusiasm. That didn’t stop her from pushing them inward with a grand flourish. “Welcome to my little corner of heaven!” She beamed.

Ben felt his jaw drop as he stepped through the doors. It was a library, filled with more books that Ben thought it possible to own. Every inch of every wall was covered, the shelves reaching high up above, almost touching the high, domed ceiling. The centre of the room held an ornate fireplace with a set of cosy-looking armchairs and a coffee table in front of it. The rest of the floor space was taken up with tall free-standing shelves, crammed full with great tombs. It was overwhelming.

“This side is fiction,” Belle said, indicating towards their left as she watched him with an amused smile. “That side is non-fiction. You’ll find all the histories in there.” Ben could only nod, dumbfounded.

“I didn’t know this many books existed.” He whispered. Belle chuckled.
“Oh, son, this is nothing. You should see the city bookshop, four stories tall.” Ben could only gawp at her in disbelief. “You’re welcome here anytime.” She told him, smiling affectionately.

Ben was grateful when she left him to peruse the shelves at his leisure. He’d been starting to feel a little overwhelmed.

He’d never been a big reader— had never had the chance. Books were a rarity on the isle and the majority of the ones that did exist were spell books, filled to the brim with spells and potions that would fill even the bravest heart with fear could they still be used. Occasionally ones would come over from Auradon on the barges but they’d be battered and falling apart. Pages missing and barely legible. The homeless children would usually snag them to use as fuel for fires.

That didn’t mean Ben didn’t love stories. Almost every night of his childhood Blackbeard had told them stories. He’d sit for hours on the deck spinning tales of great adventures and foreign lands. Ben had never been sure which parts were true and which parts had been embellished or outright fabricated but he’d loved them all the same. They’d inspired him to go on his own adventures, to find his own tales that he could tell to children of his own one day.

Whilst the temptation to head over to the fiction side was strong, Ben ignored it. He had to focus. He was on a mission here, he couldn’t allow himself to be sucked in by all of Auradon’s finery. Nice things weren’t worth selling his soul for.

It was clear from the layer of dust that the non-fiction books were seldom used. At least that meant he was unlikely to be disturbed.

He slowly walked along the first row of shelves, eyes gliding over each title. It quickly became clear that they’d been organised by subject group. Though the subjects seemed to cover quite a wide range there seemed to be no logic regarding their placement. Still, it gave him a fresh starting point after his earlier disappointment.

He came across a book titled The Age of Villainy and decided it was the perfect place for him to make a start.

He made himself comfortable in one of the armchairs and began to read.

“There you are!” Ben startled so hard he almost fell out of his chair at Mrs Potts’ voice. She stood in the doorway wearing a part amused and part exasperated expression. “I’ve been looking for you everywhere.” Ben frowned slightly at that. It wasn’t as though he’d been hiding.

“Come along, everyone’s waiting!” she said as she bustled over, shooing him out of the chair.
“Waiting for what?” He asked, confused and irritated as he approached the doors, narrowly avoiding being hit by her flapping hands.
“For you of course! It’s dinner time.”

Ben sent her a confused look over his shoulder. “Things have been a bit lax whilst you settled in, but their Majesties have decided it’s time for you to start getting into a proper routine. There are standards and behaviours you must keep to and you might as well get used to it sooner rather than later.” Ben pulled a face but said nothing.

He was going to have to play nice until he figured out how to get past the barrier anyway. Might as well get used to the long game.

He followed Mrs Potts along the hallway until they reached the dining room. He stopped in the doorway, staring in disbelief.

The room held the largest table he had ever seen. It must have seated at least sixty people more than comfortably even with their unnecessary array of cutlery. It was solid wood and polished within an inch of its life.

Currently it played host to the King and Queen and a willowy woman with a brunette bob and big, bright green eyes. A simple golden crown rested on her head and a small green lizard sat upon her shoulder. Ben could have sworn it winked at him.

“Ah, Benjamin. We were starting to get worried.” The king boomed from his seat at the head of the table. He smiled heartily as he indicated that Ben should sit. “I didn’t realise anyone was expecting me.” He muttered as he drew the chair next to Queen Belle. Both royals laughed like he’d made an excellent joke and their still unknown companion smiled along politely.

“Benjamin, this is Queen Rapunzel of Tangletown. We thought she might be able to help you adjust to life here. After all, you two had very similar upbringings.” Ben couldn’t help but snort derisively.
“You’ve got to be kidding me.” Belle made a small dismayed noise as Adam’s expression soured. Rapunzel didn’t seem even remotely fazed.

“Don’t be rude!” Belle chided causing Ben to roll his eyes.
“No offence, but living in some tower alone for most of your life is nothing like growing up on the Isle.” Belle tsked but Rapunzel remained annoyingly serene. “You’re right.” She agreed, effectively silencing the young pirate.

“I have absolutely no idea what the Isle is like and I have no idea what kind of culture shock it must be to now be here in Auradon. But I do know what it’s like to be brought up thinking you’re one thing only to find out you’re something else entirely, to find out the people you thought were your family aren’t. I know what it’s like to learn how to navigate royal life far later than most. I don’t have all the answers, but I may be able to make things a little easier for you.”

Ben sat there dumbfounded unable to do anything but stare at her. “Of course, if you don’t want my help…” she shrugged nonchalantly.

It was at that moment that the servers came in brandishing silver platters. Ben couldn’t deny he was grateful for a moment of reprieve. It was safe to say that this was not what he’d expected when Mrs. Potts had summoned him.

“So, do you have anything you’d like to ask?” Belle prodded gently as Ben began to wolf down his meal, oblivious to and uncaring of what it consisted of. “Thought you were blonde,” Ben mumbled around a mouthful, causing multiple scandalised gasps. Rapunzel just laughed.
“It seems some etiquette training wouldn’t go amiss.” She commented. “And I used to be, but once my hair was cut it lost its power and turned brown.” Ben frowned at that.
“So no more magic?” He made sure his mouth was empty this time.
“The magic is still within me. It just manifests itself in different ways now.”

“Any relevant questions?” Beast prompted, eyebrow raised. Ben very nearly rolled his eyes.
“How long are you here for? I’ll see if I can make a list.” He said sarcastically.
“That’s a wonderful idea!” Belle enthused. Adam nodded along encouragingly.

“I’ll be here for as long as my kingdom can spare me, or for as long as you need me. Whichever comes first.” Ben gave a nod, unsure of what to make of it all. He hadn’t expected help.

“Okay,” Ben said finally, deciding he might as well take advantage of the situation and get as much first-hand information out of her as he could. “I’ll think it over tonight and come find you tomorrow to talk.” Rapunzel nodded her ascent and Belle reached over and squeezed his hand encouragingly. Ben forced himself not to pull away. He’d be free of them all soon enough.

Chapter Text

Harry leant against the ships balustrade, staring out at the docks. A bunch of young kids were playing, running around chasing each other with shrieks of delight. He smiled softly to himself. He missed the days when life was that simple.

When you could run around covered in muck and be anything you wanted to be and no one batted an eyelid. When you didn’t realise the way you lived was in any way wrong or different or not how things were for everyone. When you were too naive to realise the world was a cruel place filled with pain and suffering but not just because your parent was an evil villain with nothing but vengeance on their mind.

Perhaps the loss and heartache that constantly weighed on his chest was starting to taint his world view as well as his temperament.

The wooden boards of the deck creaked and he didn’t need to look to know it was Uma. She’d been trying to give him space to process everything that had happened lately and he appreciated it. He knew how incredibly hard it was for her to not try and make him feel better.

She was a mother hen through and through when it came to her crew. She cared so damn much about everyone and did as much as she could for them all. It was sweet, but it just wasn’t what Harry needed right now. It wasn’t as if she could just make the pain go away with hugs and platitudes.

“I remember those days.” She came to lean next to him, indicating towards the kids with her head. “Running around care free. Causing trouble and using everything Uncle B taught us to make playing pirate more realistic.” He hummed in agreement but didn’t offer anything more. He wasn’t really up for holding a conversation right now.

“Look, I know right now we can’t help Ben and it sucks, but we will figure it out. One way or another we will bring him home. You got that?” Harry nodded. He wasn’t sure he believed it, but it was clear that Uma did. He really wished he could share her unwavering faith in, well, anything really.

“Everything going wrong the other night got me thinking. He’s not the only one who needs our help. Maybe that’s why it didn’t go to plan. Maybe we’re not meant to leave yet.” Harry raised an eyebrow, turning slightly to face her so she knew he was listening. She indicated towards the kids again. “They need us too.” Harry’s eyebrows furrowed, interest sufficiently peaked.
“I’m not following.”

“I know the plan was always to save Ben, get the crew and sail away, but what if we’re meant for more than that?” Harry just stared at her, he knew her well enough to know the difference between when she was actually asking him something and when she was working through her ideas aloud. Right now he was just her sounding board.

“We’re not the only ones who want to get off this hell hole of an island. We’re not the only ones who deserve a chance at a normal life. Mal might want to take over the world to please her mom but most of the kids in this place are just that, kids. Kids who don’t know any different with shitty parents who don’t care. They need protecting.”

Harry frowned. It was a noble idea but it didn’t sound very practical. “And how exactly do ye plan to protect every kid on the island? We don’t have the room on the ship to open a safe house.” Uma just shrugged.
“I don’t know yet, but that doesn’t mean it’s not the right thing to do. They need us. They need someone to stand up for them, to protect them when they can’t protect themselves. We could do that. We could be their shield from the evil of this place. We could be the ones who change this place for the better.”

Harry let out a slow breath as he thought over her words. It may not be sailing the seas, but it would be nice to have something to focus on, a purpose.

And she was right, of course. These kids deserved better and no one else was going to provide it for them. Auradon had abandoned them before they were even born and there parents didn’t care about anything but useless revenge plots that they were never going to get to re-enact. He often forgot how lucky they had been to have Blackbeard looking out for them.

Before he could respond their was a loud shriek.

They both spun around to face the direction of the sound and Harry felt his eyes widen in alarm as he saw Gil stumbling towards them, bloodied and bruised. The children had stopped playing and were staring with wide-eyed curiosity at the long-haired boy. Their expressions held both fascination and horror. Something Harry knew all too well.

They both ran down the gangplank meeting Gil at the bottom where he dropped onto his knees, panting heavily. “What the hell happened?” Uma cried as they both crouched down beside the injured boy. “My dad—” He cut himself off, spitting out blood and grimacing. Uma and Harry exchanged a look before helping him to his feet and taking him below deck to get cleaned up.

Harry paced back and forth as Uma cleaned Gil of blood and tended to his wounds. It turned out most of the blood was from a broken nose rather than a horrifying, life-threatening injury but he still had quite a lot of bruising across his torso and a split lip.

“So what exactly set yer dad off?” Harry asked once Gil was in a better position to talk.
“He found out about Ben.” The Captain and First Mate exchanged a look of confusion.
“Since when does he care about Ben?”
“Since he’s the lost prince.” Harry glanced at Uma again and was grateful to see he wasn’t the only one who wasn’t following.
“And that matters because?”
“Because he’s the one who took him.”

Harry baulked and Uma froze, hand half way to his lip where she’d been about to clean away the dried blood. Neither of them had expected that.

“Okay,” Uma said calmly, recovering first. “I’m gonna need you to start at the beginning.” Gil gave a soft sigh, letting her dab at him carefully with the cloth as he spoke.

“Apparently, he stole the prince twenty years ago as revenge against Queen Belle and King Adam for what happened between them all. He abandoned him at the docks, assuming he’d either die or be found and sent to an orphanage or something.”

Harry felt as though his brain was running a mile a minute, processing at lightning speed as he tried to figure out what this could mean for Ben.

“Well, that lines up with what Uncle B said,” Uma noted. Gil nodded.
“When he heard about them coming and taking Ben, and why, he completely lost it. He kept accusing me of being a traitor to my family. He said I should have finished him off before Auradon could have gotten a hold of him. Didn’t seem to matter that I had no idea who he was before they took him.”

Harry was overcome with a strong urge to go and find Gaston and make him suffer. For what he’d done to Gil and for daring to suggest that anyone lay a finger on Ben. He was a petty brute and he deserved to pay for his crimes.

“I knew my dad was a bad guy,” Gil mumbled quietly, almost to himself. “But to kidnap and abandon a baby? It’s sick. It’s not like it was Ben’s fault his mom chose the king over my dad.”

“Well, if he hadn’t taken him we would never have met him.” Uma pointed out, forever playing the devils advocate in an attempt to soothe Gil’s agitation. “Maybe it would have been better if we hadn’t.” They both turned to face Harry with shocked expressions.
“How can you of all people say that?” Uma asked in disbelief.
“Oh, come on. Ye can’t deny he’d have been so much better off growing up in Auradon. Growing up as a god damn prince. There’s no comparison!”

Uma’s expression was full of pity and Harry hated her a little bit for it.

“Sure, he would have had better food, money, clothes, anything he wanted, but that doesn’t mean he’d be better off. It doesn’t guarantee love or happiness, it doesn’t guarantee friendship or being treated fairly. We may not have much in the physical sense, but we still have a lot going for us. We have each other, we have the rest of the crew, we have Blackbeard. Life may not be easy but it’s not all bad either.”

Harry didn’t know what to say to that. He suddenly felt the overwhelming urge to cry, which seemed to be happening more and more frequently these days. God, things were so messed up.

“This was what I was talking about up on deck. There are so many kids on this island who need us to give them the less shitty bits of life here so that they don’t become their parents, so they don’t all turn out like Mal, deathly afraid and constantly trying to live up to an impossible standard. We need to do more, we can’t just run away.”

“What about Ben?” Harry didn’t disagree with her, and he liked the idea of helping out some of the youngsters, but he couldn’t abandon Ben to do it.

Uma got up from her seat, sending him a tired but determined smile. “Harry, I promise you, whatever happens we are going to figure out a way to get to Ben, but we need to do this too. It is our duty to help these kids. We can’t abandon them.” Harry nodded his assent.
“I’m with ye Captain. Always.” She smiled, gently squeezing his shoulder.
“I know.”

She turned back to Gil, who had been watching her curiously as she’d talked, and her expression immediately became stern. “You need to go and rest for a while. I don’t want you hurting yourself even more by trying to do to much before you’ve healed properly.” Gil opened his mouth to protest but it was clear from Uma’s expression that she wouldn’t be taking anything other than ‘yes captain’ for an answer. He gave a sigh and nodded, slowly getting to his feet, wincing slightly along the way.

Harry watched him with a worried expression. Injuries like that could be so much worse than they first appeared. They’d have to keep an eye on him for the next few days to make sure nothing untoward happened.

They headed back up onto the deck and Uma called everyone to order. She was eager to start telling them her new plan and getting ideas on how exactly they should start their little philanthropic endeavour.

“I know things haven’t gone to plan recently and up until this point we haven’t been particularly productive or had much in the way of adventures.” Uma began, successfully grabbing everyone’s undivided attention. “But that’s about to change,” she enthused. “We may not be getting off the Isle right now the way we had hoped but that doesn’t mean we have to go back to doing nothing.”

A murmur ran through the crew as they exchanged hopeful and confused looks. “So, what’s the plan, Captain?” Jonas asked. Uma smiled.
“The Isle is our home, and it’s about time we took some responsibly for it.” She was greeted with more confused murmuring as she climbed up onto one of the barrels. “Our parents generation are has-been’s. They do nothing but babble about their glory days and try to scare us with tales of what they used to be able to do. It’s our time now. It’s time for us to take control!”

A cheer went up around them and Harry smiled, Uma had always been good at raising moral and rallying people to support her, no matter what the plan was. It was impressive really, a quality of a true leader. He himself couldn’t think of anything worse than having to stand up in front of everyone and try to give a grand speech.

“It’s time to take action!” Uma called over the noise. “It’s time to protect the kids who can’t protect themselves, to share out supplies equally, it’s time for the reign of tyranny to end. We’re gonna do what our parents never could. We’re gonna make this place liveable, a real home. We’re gonna get back at Auradon for leaving us under here by making a real community— self sustaining, peaceful. We’re gonna be everything they believed we never could.” More cheering sounded before a chant of ‘Uma’ broke out making the blue-haired sea witch smile.

“Who’s with me?”
“Yeah!”

“Alright, anyone got any ideas? Throw them at me.”

Whilst Harry supported her plan wholeheartedly, he quickly found his attention waning now that they’d reached the brainstorming section of the plan. His mind was so full these days that he couldn’t concentrate on anything for more than a moment. Not even something as important as this. He’d always been more of an action guy than a planning guy anyway.

His eyes drifted back out towards the wharf as he let the hum of voices wash over him. He frowned slightly as his eyes fell on a familiar white-haired figure approaching the ship.

Wordlessly he stepped up to Uma, leaning in close and keeping his voice low so no one else would hear. “Captain, we have company.” Uma raised an eyebrow, expression bemused. “Go see what they want.” Harry gave a single nod before making his way over to the gangplank.

“Ye’re a little out of yer territory,” he called casually as he strolled down the plank as though he didn’t have a care in the world. If he acted that way enough would it eventually become true? Fake it ’til you make it as the old adage goes.

Carlos paused, hands up to show he meant no harm. “I just want to talk.” Harry crossed his arms, trying to appear as cool and casual as he possibly could after his little melt down the last time he’d seen the other lad. “Uma’s a little busy right now, ye’ll have to come back later.” Carlos sent him a shy smile. “It was actually you I wanted to talk to.”

Harry paused, immediately dropping the bravado as he frowned. “What could we possibly have to talk about?” If he was here on Mal’s behalf to threaten him again then he was going to find himself going for a little swim with the crocodiles.

“I know my device didn’t help us to escape, but it did punch a hole in the barrier.” Harry rolled his eyes.
“Yeah, big help to us that is,” he said pointing vaguely up at the barrier’s domed top to illustrate his point.
“I know,” Carlos agreed in a soothing tone. “I couldn’t get us out and I’m pretty sure Auradon’s closed up the hole now anyway, but whilst it was open I was able to build us a Wi-Fi network.” Harry blinked, staring in disbelief.
“What?” Carlos sent him a proud little grin.
“The Isle now has Wi-Fi.”

Harry just stared at him, his expression impassive. He had no idea why Carlos was telling him this or what use any of them would have for it. Most people didn’t have Carlos’ technical skills and weren’t able to build their own gadgets the way he had. Auradon wasn’t in the habit of throwing away working laptops and phones even if they were under the impression they would be of no use to the Isle’s residents.

“And?” Harry said when the silence had dragged on for too long without Carlos elaborating.
“Oh, yes, right, sorry. Well, you see, we can use it to connect with Auradon.”

Harry’s eyes widened with shock. “Ye mean we can use the Wi-Fi to get to Ben?” Carlos hesitated.
“Not ‘get’ to him exactly. We can use it to check in on him, search all the news sights and networks for word on how he’s doing. Things like that.” Harry sighed. He wasn’t sure how much good that would do.

“Could we use it to contact him?” He asked, the last of his hope rapidly receding with every word that left the blonde’s mouth.
“Well, technically yes, but you’d need to know his details and what accounts he had.” Harry stared at him blankly. He had no idea what the shorter boy was talking about.

“Why are ye telling me all this?” He couldn’t help but feel like this was all going to come at a cost. Nothing worth while came for free.

Carlos gave a soft sigh. “Look, I can’t imagine what you’re going through right now. Being separated from someone you… care about so much.” His eyes darted around as he spoke, looking for anyone who might overhear them. “I couldn’t help you get out of here, so I figured the least I could do was keep you up to date on how he’s doing. I thought it might bring you some comfort.” Harry was floored. He’d never expected anyone else to care about his loss outside of the crew. He gave a single nod of thanks and Carlos visibly relaxed.

“Okay,” he said, shy smile returning. “Well, I’ll let you get back to your… pirating.” He gave a nod and flapped an arm vaguely at the ship before turning on his heels and scurrying off.

When Harry returned to the ship he felt more than a little dazed.

Uma came up to him, apparently done with her little meeting, the crew now milling about the deck. “Who was it?” She asked quietly so they wouldn’t be overheard. “DeVil.” Uma’s eye’s immediately narrowed with suspicion.
“And what did he want?” Harry, still not entirely sure what to make of the conversation, gave a shrug.
“Apparently the Isle now has Wi-Fi.”

Uma stared at him for a long moment, her face impassive. It was an expression Harry knew all too well. She was planning something, the pieces slowly slotting together in her mind as she stood there, appearing as empty headed as she possibly could. He pitied the fools that misunderstood that look and used it as a reason to underestimate her.

“This Wi-Fi thing…” she said finally. “It has information on it, right?” Harry gave a shrug. He wasn’t exactly knowledgeable on technology.
“I think so. He offered to use it too keep tabs on Ben for us. So we know how he’s doing.” Uma nodded slowly, a small smile playing on her lips. “Maybe we could use it to find out information on the barrier. Like how to take it down.” Harry’s eyes widened in shock. He hadn’t thought of that.

“I’ll be back,” she said, giving his shoulder a squeeze as she passed. “Keep everyone in check ’til I return,” she called over her shoulder as she reached the gangplank. “Aye, aye Captain.”

Harry headed over to the balustrade and watched as Uma made her way across the docks in the same direction Carlos had gone.

He could only hope she caught up with him before he got back to Hell Hall. Cruella was not one for visitors and was quick to hand out punishments. They were always far worse than the misstep warranted. Memories of spending days in the stocks had him shuddering.

“Where’s Captain gone?” Desiree asked, coming to a stop a healthy distance away. She was visibly nervous about being around him.

Harry had to fight hard not to laugh at that. He’d always had a reputation as an unpredictable maniac but the crew had never been afraid of him before. His mood swings of late must have been worse than he’d realised.

He sent her what he hoped was a reassuring smile. “She’s gone on a re-con mission.”

Chapter Text

Ben sat crossed legged on the huge bed, chewing thoughtfully on the end of his pen. He had to come up with enough questions that seemed like he was making an effort to hide the ones he actually wanted to know. It was a lot harder than he had anticipated.

He flopped backwards on the bed with a frustrated sigh. He was starting to think he wasn’t cut out for this sneaky evil villain lark. It required so much planning and cunning. Was this what it was like to be a captain?

There was a knock at the door and with a frown Ben sat back up. “Yeah?” He called, not bothering to get up.

The door opened revealing a tall, thin man with a beak-like nose, grey-blue eyes and a thoroughly unimpressed expression. In his arms he held several boxes.

“You should always ask who it is at the door before you allow them entry.” He said in lieu of greeting. “It’s for your own safety.” Ben just stared at him. Did they really just trust everyone’s word here? Had they never heard of lying before?

He cleared his throat and straightened up further. “My name is Lumière. I am the head of the household staff.” Ben just sat silently, waiting for him to get to the point. Lumière huffed when Ben didn’t respond, his expression souring further. What do you want, a medal?

“These are for you, from their Royal Majesties. They thought they might be utilised in your efforts to acclimatise to life here.” He placed the boxes, none too gently, onto the desk before swiftly exiting the room without another word.

Ben could only frown at the level of poorly concealed contempt the man held for him. It was impressive how much these people could hate and look down upon a person they hadn’t previously met.

He went to inspect the boxes, curious to see what exactly the royal couple thought would make his life easier.

He found himself staring at the boxes, utterly baffled. They were machines of some sort, he was pretty sure he’d seen Carlos build one of the bigger ones back on the Isle. A computer, he called it. The other was a small flat screen, a tiny TV maybe? He couldn’t be sure. There was nothing written on the box that meant anything to him.

What he’d want with that, he didn’t know. There was already a very large and very complicated TV in his room that he hadn’t bothered to figure out, what use was a tiny one?

He shook his head, leaving them in favour of getting dressed. He wasn’t sure he’d ever understand these people.

He reached the dining room to find one of the maids tidying away the last of the plates as Queen Rapunzel got to her feet. She cast a disgusted look at Ben as she walked towards him, her nose wrinkling with her disdain. “Breakfast was served at eight am.” She said pointedly as she huffed passed him. Ben just rolled his eyes.

“I‘m sure the kitchen can make you something before we start.” Rapunzel greeted, poorly concealing her amusement at his indifference.
“I’m good.” Ben shrugged. “I’m not exactly used to the whole set meals thing. We always just kind eat if and when we can.” Rapunzel simply nodded her understanding and Ben was glad not to immediately receive her pity.

“Shall we walk and talk?” She asked as she stepped passed him and Ben quickly fell into step with her.

“So, what would you like to know?” Rapunzel asked. Ben gave a sigh, running a hand through his hair. “I don’t even know where to start.” The brunette woman chuckled. “It’s very overwhelming,” she agreed. “Hard to grasp from the outside.” Ben nodded, doing his best to seem lost and out of his depth. It was far easier than he’d like to admit.

“How do you even rule a kingdom?” Rapunzel blew out a thoughtful breath, mouth pinching at the corner as she tried to find the words.

“There’s no easy answer to that,” she said finally. “Everyone does it slightly differently. The main thing is you’ve got to do what’s best for the kingdom. Your people have to come first in every decision you make. You can only ever do what you think is best, and not everyone will agree with you all the time but you have to trust yourself and follow you gut. You’ll have advisers of course and it’s always good to hear them out, have that outside perspective, but every decision will ultimately be yours. For better or worse.” Ben nodded slowly, horrified at the thought of having such power. It didn’t seem right for one person to have so much control over so many lives.

“I recommend reading up on the general political systems of the kingdom, and Belle tells me you’re taking an interest in Auradon’s history which will also be useful. Anything that helps you to learn from your predecessors will be good, help you have a better idea of the potential consequences of your decisions. It’s very much something you learn as you go though. I know that’s not the most helpful answer.”

Ben frowned. “I’m not sure the histories are all that useful either.” Rapunzel raised an eyebrow.
“What makes you say that?” Ben shrugged, trying to appear nonchalant.
“Well, good defeats evil and they all live happily ever after isn’t exactly the every day of ruling a kingdom, is it?” Rapunzel laughed.
“No I suppose you’ve got a point there.”

“And the Isle isn’t exactly a repeat situation, not that there’s any real information available about it anyway.” Rapunzel gave him a measured look and Ben did his best to hide his discomfort. He didn’t need to make her suspicious of him.

“No,” she said finally. “It’s not. And the only people who truly know all about the Isle and it’s secrets are the king and Fairy Godmother.” Ben nodded, masking his disappointment with neutrality. “Makes sense.” Rapunzel hummed in agreement.

“If you give them time, show them you’re willing to learn and integrate, they may be more willing to answer any questions you might have.” Her tone was neutral and it seemed like nothing more than good advice, but Ben could hear the warning behind it. Play their game if you want to get along.

They waked in silence for a while, their path taking them out of the castle entirely and into the grounds. The sun was warm on Ben’s skin and a light breeze ruffled his hair.

He’d never realised just how much those on the Isle missed out on. Sure their was the obvious stuff; fresh food, proper housing, healthcare, but even simple little things like seasons and living plants were life changing in a way Ben had never expected. He longed to share his discoveries with the others.

“I never wanted any of this.” He said quietly, as he looked out over the beautiful gardens, all in full bloom. “I don’t want to rule a kingdom.” He glanced sideways at Rapunzel and was surprised to find a look of understanding gracing her features.

“Most don’t.” Ben raised a disbelieving eyebrow and she chuckled. “It’s true! Most rulers don’t want the power but the power is thrust upon them anyway and they do what they must for the greater good in spite of what they want.” Ben pursed his lips, unsure of what to make of that. “Personally,” she continued. “I think that’s the mark of a great leader. The ability to do the right thing even though it goes against their own self interest.”

Ben said nothing. He knew what she was trying to do, but no amount of encouragement and understanding was going to turn him into a great leader of men. Auradon had never done anything for him before now, why should he be it’s saviour? Hell, they didn’t even know that he was the prince. It was stupid to go through all this trouble when there was still so much uncertainty.

“Would you truly go back if you could? Give all this up?” Without hesitation Ben nodded.
“I left everything behind on that Island, my friends, family. Nothing is worth that loss.” His mind immediately filled with Harry and he was rocked with a wave of misery so debilitating he had to turn away from the queen as he got a grip of himself.

“I see.” Rapunzel said and Ben had a horrible feeling that she actually did. “Losing someone you… care for like that. There’s no pain quite like it.” Ben gave a nod, his throat still thick with emotions.
“It’s worse than death.” He whispered.

“Perhaps, in time, you could bring them here.” Ben kept his mouth shut. He didn’t trust himself not to say something he’d regret later and thinking about the possibility was too much for him to bear.

“Your Highness?”

Ben turned back to find a brown haired lad who was maybe in his late twenties. He wore the staff uniform and the same nervous expression that seemed to come with telling someone of a higher social standing something they weren’t going to like.

“What is it, Chip?” Rapunzel asked, companionably.
“I’m sorry to interrupt, but His Royal Majesty, King Adam, has requested your immediate presence in his office.” Ben gave a heavy sigh but nodded.

Whatever it was the idiot king wanted, it would be a distraction from his current spiralling and would no doubt remind him exactly why he had no intention of staying.

Ben followed Chip through the castle until they reached a small reception area, complete with a desk and a short, middle-aged red-head sitting typing away at a computer, stacks of paperwork covering her desk. A small name plaque sat front and centre, declaring her to be Deborah.

She glanced up as Chip approached. He bobbed his head to her in polite greeting. “The prince, as requested.”
“Thank you, Chip,” she said with a warm, motherly smile. He gave another, awkward little bob before turning and scurrying back the way they’d come, cheeks bright pink. Ben fought hard against the urge to laugh.

“You’re expected.” She indicated towards the large, wooden door behind her before turning back to her computer.

With a shrug, Ben waltzed straight in.

He was only partially surprised to find that both Belle and Fairy Godmother were also present.

“Benjamin,” the king boomed with a bright smile that seemed out of place on his usually sullen face. “Sit down my lad, we have news.”

Ben slowly took the empty chair, a sinking feeling gripping his stomach. Everyone seemed far too happy for this to be good. Belle was practically vibrating out of her seat. He could feel his heart rate starting to increase in anticipation.

“The DNA test results came back,” the king began, poorly concealing a smile as Belle continued bouncing like she was seconds away from exploding. Ben glanced between the two his stomach twisting uncomfortably as he realised exactly what they were about to say. This cannot be happening.

“It’s official!” Belle blurted, no longer able to contain herself. “You’re our son!”

Expecting the words did nothing to prepare Ben for the shock they would cause. He felt as though their were stones in his stomach, opening up a giant pit within him into which they sank deeper and deeper. He couldn’t focus on the exaltation around him, the words meaningless as a feeling of horror settled within him.

He was a prince. A real life prince. Heir to a kingdom and epitome of propriety. Role model and voice for the masses.

He felt sick.

A weight on his shoulder jolted him sharply back to the presence and he found that it was the king’s strong hand. He was beaming with pride. “Look at him,” Adam cooed. “He’s speechless.”

Belle came over and knelt down in front of him, taking his hands. “I know it’s going to take a little while to adjust, but we’re going to do everything we can to help you. You’ll see, everything’s about to get so much better for you. You’ll finally find out what life should really look like.”

“There you are.”

Ben groaned at the sound of Jane’s voice. He really didn’t have it in him to pretend to be nice right now.

In an attempt to find solitude and escape the celebrations he’d gone out into the gardens and climbed the tallest tree he could find, settling up in it’s branches out of sight. Apparently, there was no hiding from some people.

“Mom told me the news.” Jane said as she came to a stop directly beneath him. Ben ignored her, hoping she’d get the message. “You want to talk about it?” Apparently not.

“Jane, can you just fuck off?” he expected her to get upset, to storm off in an indignant huff. Instead, she rolled her eyes and took a seat amongst the tree’s roots.

They sat in silence for what felt like hours and Ben was surprised to find guilt gnawing at him for snapping. Auradon was rubbing off on him.

“I don’t know who I am any more,” He said in lieu of an apology. Jane snorted in response.
“You’re Ben. Same as you’ve always been.” Ben frowned down at her, confused. She glanced up, catching his bemused expression and shrugged. “You haven’t changed. Blood doesn’t make a person.”

Ben considered that a moment. “It does though. It changes everything. I thought I was a pirate but it turns out I’m a prince. I’ve gone from scrubbing decks to learning to rule a kingdom.”
“Your situation has changed,” Jane agreed. “But that doesn’t have to change who you are as a person.” Ben didn’t really know what to make of that.

“You wanna get out of here?” Jane asked after a moment, souring Ben’s mood further.
“You know I can’t go anywhere.” He scowled. Jane only grinned up at him, a mischievous glint in her eyes.

“The way I see it; you’re a prince, so you can do what you want. Besides, the press have never seen the prince before, so how would they possibly know that you’re him if you were just walking around unaccompanied?” A grin slowly took over Ben’s face. He’d never expected to see this kind of behaviour from Jane of all people. “I like the way you think.”

Ben dropped down from his perch as Jane got to her feet, dusting down her pale blue play-suit. She hesitated as she looked him over. “You might need to get changed first,” she said, expression apologetic.
“What’s wrong with what I’m wearing?” Ben asked waspishly, crossing his arms across his chest.
“Nothing, but you’ll stick out like a sore thumb.” Jane shrugged nonchalantly. “The whole point is that we want to fly under the radar.” Grudgingly he had to admit she made a good point.

“Come on,” she said as she took a hold of his elbow and began to pull him back towards the castle. “There’s got to be something in your wardrobe that’s not completely abhorrent to you.”

It’s amazing how far confidence and a self-important attitude can get you. Ben was amazed to find no one even attempted to stop or question them as they left the grounds.

Ben pulled at the small collar of the dark blue polo shirt he’d grudgingly agree to wear with some black slacks. Everything else he’d been given was either a garish shade of the royal couple’s signature colour or screamed ‘punch me’. He may be playing the part a young elite but that didn’t mean he was going to completely dweeb out.

“Leave it alone!” Jane hissed, lightly smacking his hand away from his clothes.
“I’m not used to having stuff so close to my neck.” He grouched, letting his hand fall to his side.
“Well get used to it. You’re supposed to be fitting in, remember?”

“Where are we going anyway?” Ben asked, not that he cared much. He was just caught up in the thrill of misbehaving.
“Well, I figured a trip to The Glass Slipper was long overdue.” Ben just raised an eyebrow, making her laugh. “It’s the local student bar, very popular. It will do you good to do something normal for once.”

The idea of being forced to interact with more of the Auradon elite wasn’t exactly appealing but if it gave him access to alcohol he could suck it up for a while. Given the dire circumstances a drink was practically compulsory.

“Alright.” He agreed. “Let’s paint the town red.”

Ben wasn’t sure what he’d expected but the small, wood and thatch structure was not it. It looked more like a fairy cottage than a bar.

The inside was cosy, dark woods and richly coloured accents. Plush furniture and a roaring fire in the corner. Old photos littered the wall of heroes past, and there was a large chandelier that felt decidedly out of place. As did all the young, preppy, rich kids that occupied it.

He heard Jane release a nervous breath beside him and raised an eyebrow at her. She looked like she wanted to turn tail and run and Ben could only frown. This had been her idea after all; why suggest it if she didn’t want to be here?

He didn’t get the chance to question her as they were approached by a tall blonde boy in a pale blue shirt. He had an arrogant smirk on his annoyingly angelic face, and Ben could tell he was going to be trouble.

“Jane! I didn’t expect to see you here. A bit rowdy for Mommy’s tastes, no?” Jane’s cheeks immediately flushed pink.
“Hello Chad,” she mumbled, eyes immediately cast low.

A flash of anger had Ben’s fists curling and it took everything in him not to punch the guy.

“Jane?”

A brown haired girl in a pale pink dress appeared at Chad’s side, all fake smile and the kind of pretty that could only come from magical intervention.

It was clear that Jane was fighting hard against the urge to physically recoil.

“What are you doing out past bedtime? And with a boy.” She gave a faux gasp and Ben had officially had enough.
“Well, we couldn’t stay in all day,” he cut in before Jane could respond. “The bed springs would snap.” He took great pleasure in the shock on their faces as he put an arm around the equally shocked Jane. “Excuse us.”

“What was that?!” Jane gasped, cheeks flushing scarlet as he steered her towards the bar. “Oh my gods, why would you say that? They talk about me enough without something like that going around.”

Ben rolled his eyes, fully aware of all the eyes on him. “Oh come on, I wasn’t about to just stand there and let them say that shit.” She shot him a baffled look, and Ben was inclined to agree. He had no idea where this sudden protectiveness had come from.

“Why that, though?” She said with a slight huff. Ben shrugged. “It shut them up, didn’t it?” Jane didn’t look pacified.
“Of course it shut them up, it’s utterly scandalous.” Ben snorted, rolling his eyes. She couldn’t honestly expect him to believe that.

When her horrified expression didn’t change, Ben frowned. “Seriously?” He asked in disbelief.
“Yes, seriously!” She hissed at him. “Now all they’re going to talk about is how I’m a… a… floozy.” She seemed genuinely upset but Ben found he was trying not to laugh at how ridiculous it all was.

“You cannot honestly be that naive.” He said as they reached the bar.

“Rum, neat.” He shot at the bartender, startling him enough that he almost dropped the glass he’d been cleaning.
“I’ll have a lost boy,” Jane ordered with a shy smile.

“I know things are different where you’re from,” Jane began once the bartender was out of earshot. “But here you wait until you find and marry your true love. To be intimate with anyone else is bordering on sacrilege.”

This time, Ben did laugh, shaking his head. “For evil’s sake. Sex is not that big of a deal.” Jane’s cheeks only darkened at the mention of the word, and Ben found he genuinely pitied the severely sheltered girl.

“It’s only as big a deal as you make it. Some people just do it for fun, for others it’s a physical expression of love. Whatever your reasoning, it should be about how you feel about it, not dictated by society. It’s your life and your body and you should be allowed to choose what you do with it without judgement from stuck up assholes.”

Jane looked genuinely startled by the intensity of his tone. Ben couldn’t quite believe how archaic Auradon’s view was.

Their drinks arrived, and they found a table in the back corner. Eyes followed their every move and Ben quickly realised that Jane’s fears weren’t as unfounded as he first thought, even if the whole reason behind it was ridiculous.

“So have you… done it?” Jane asked delicately. Ben smirked around the rim of his glass.
“I have.” He tried his best not to sound too smug about it, but looking at the mix of intrigue and horror on Jane’s face, he suspected he’d missed the mark.

“How many times?” The words were barely a whisper and her eyes kept darting around like she was waiting for the Auradon guard to lock down the place and arrest them at any moment. “Uh, I haven’t exactly been keeping count.”

Her eyes grew comically wide, and Ben once again had to fight the urge to laugh. It was a societal difference he hadn’t expected to come across, and given how hard Jane was finding it to get her head around Ben’s blasé outlook, it was clearly something that was drummed into them from an early age. Something no one ever talked about or contradicted openly.

“So a lot then?” Ben shrugged. “Depends who you ask, I suppose. Where I’m from, people are more interested in how many people rather than how many times. Having a high number is like a badge of honour. Seems like you’re desirable and know what you’re doing.”

Jane outright gaped at him and Ben wondered if he should perhaps change the subject before she had some kind of aneurysm.

“You mean people— with lots of other people?” Ben shrugged, nodding and taking another mouthful of his drink.

Jane slumped back in her chair, looking like she was questioning every decision she’d ever made. She picked up the glass of luminous green liquid and chugged it in a few large swigs. Ben raised a surprised eyebrow as she placed the empty glass back down on the table.

“What?” Ben smirked to himself, shaking his head.
“Nothing.”

“What was all that about earlier? All the digs about your mom?” Jane gave a sigh, running a hand over her face.
“My mom’s always been super strict, I think being a head teacher and seeing what all the other kids were like made her really weary about the kinds of things I should be exposed to. I lived a very sheltered life, and even as I grew older, I wasn’t allowed to do a lot of the stuff the others were all doing. It really isolated me, and everyone just latched onto it, called me a baby and joked about me not being allowed to do everyday stuff. It just kinda stuck, and I’ve never been able to shake it. It’s why I tend to keep to myself.”

Ben felt anger flare in his stomach, and he gritted his teeth in frustration. He knew all too well what it was like to be persecuted because of your parents. It was the go-to insult on the Isle and often the most cutting.

“It seems the pathetic use the same tactics to inflict emotional pain wherever you go,” he muttered. She glanced up at him, surprised by his reaction. She gave him a small smile and relaxed a little more after that.

The evening soon turned hazy as they chatted about decidedly lighter topics, laughing and joking and swapping stories. Ben found himself sharing a lot more than he’d intended, but the alcohol had loosened his tongue and warmed his heart. Jane wasn’t like everyone else in this uptight glass house of a kingdom. He could trust her with the little things.

They stumbled out at closing time, both in high spirits as they began the walk back to the castle. “Come on,” Jane said as she began to veer off the path. “I know a shortcut.”

Ben raised an eyebrow, watching as she made her way towards the forest. He wasn’t sure he trusted this shortcut, given that she seemed to be heading in the opposite direction to where they needed to go, but he also knew he’d never be able to get back on his own. With a resigned sigh, he trailed after her.

“Are you sure you know where you’re going?” Ben asked as they trudged through the trees, seemingly making no progress.
“Trust me.” Jane insisted. “I go this way all the time.” Ben pursed his lips but didn’t argue.

They emerged out of the dense foliage, and Ben stopped dead in his tracks, eyes wide.

The path sloped down ahead of them until it reached a small platform that was surrounded on three sides by the clearest water Ben had ever seen. It seemed to shimmer in the moonlight, and Ben could see small glowing points beneath the surface. There were dilapidated pillars that seemed to be the remains of a stone gazebo, and he could hear the distant trickle of a waterfall. He’d never seen anything so beautiful.

“That’s the enchanted lake,” Jane said, grinning at his dumbfounded expression. “Very popular picnic spot.”

“Enchanted as in magic?” Jane see-sawed her hand.
“Very minor. It can wash away the effects of basic curses and spells, but nothing too strong or complicated. No one really knows why.”
“Is it dangerous if you’ve not been spelled?” Jane shook her head.
“No, it’s just water.”

Ben’s feet were moving him closer before he’d even consciously chosen to move.

“What are you doing?” Jane called after him, tone mildly exasperated. Ben gave a shrug.
“Going for a swim.” He hadn’t had the chance since before he’d left the Isle.

“You don’t have any swimming trunks!” Jane cried, using the trees for support as she made to follow him. “Or a towel!” Ben was undeterred.
“Never had ‘em on the Isle either, but that didn’t stop us.”

He reached the platform and began to strip before diving straight into the crystalline water. Unsurprisingly, it was the perfect temperature.

Jane had made it down to the platform and was staring at him in abject horror, hands covering her eyes, but her fingers split so she could see him anyway. Ben couldn’t help but laugh.

“Stop being a judgemental prude and get in!” He called to her, making her baulk.
“I can’t get naked.” She cried, arms crossing around her protectively. Ben pursed his lips, sensing there was more to it than an instilled sense of propriety. “I won’t look,” he said, turning his back to her.

He could practically hear her brain weighing up her options as he waited.

There was a gentle slosh as the water rippled out from her intrusion, and Ben counted to ten before slowly turning back around.

Jane had submerged herself up to her collarbone and still didn’t seem particularly happy about her current predicament.

“If anyone sees us,” she began, tone admonishing.
“No one is going to see us. It’s late, and it’s dark, and we’re not even doing anything wrong.” She didn’t seem convinced, but she took a deep breath to steel her nerves and nodded.

“You’re very high-strung,” Ben noted, watching her thoughtfully.
“If you’d grown up here, you would be too.” Ben suspected she had a point.
“I suppose even picture-perfect Auradon isn’t as great as they’d have us believe.” Jane gave a bitter laugh.
“You have no idea.”

Ben swam back a little, making a conscious effort not to expose himself. Jane was clearly still uncomfortable, and the last thing he wanted was to make it worse.

It occurred to him then that the only other people he so wholeheartedly considered the comfort of and protected as fiercely as he had tonight with Jane was his crew. They were his family, his friends, Jane was… Oh.

A surprised and slightly hysterical sounding laugh burst out of him so abruptly that he had to right himself and find his footing so he wouldn’t drown.

“What?” Jane asked, frowning. Ben shook his head, fighting desperately for breath as he tried to stifle the giggles still wracking his frame.
“It just- you’re my friend.” He managed to wheeze. Hoping the insanity of the situation came across without words.

He was some good-for-nothing pirate from the Isle being held against his will, and she was the ostracised daughter of the most powerful fairy in the land who also happened to be a highly trusted adviser of the king. It was the kind of friendship that could topple nations.

Jane blinked at him, clearly just as surprised by the revelation as he was.

Slowly, a smile took over her face, and soon she too was laughing, the sound of their joy echoing softly up into the night.

Chapter Text

“Take this to the kids' home.”

Uma handed Harry two large boxes filled with supplies for the children that were now under their protection. He almost dropped them, taken off guard by their weight.

“What’s in these?” He cried in disbelief. Uma shrugged.
“Mostly clothes and bedding, I think there might be a few books in the bottom one. Gil’s already headed over with the food.” Harry sighed, readjusting his grip on the boxes.

“And once you’re done there go and check in with Carlos and see what progress he’s made.”
“Aye, aye, Captain,” he grunted before heading towards the narrows.

They’d managed to find a mostly abandoned building there. A few kids had already been using it to sleep in, as they had nowhere to go, so it was clearly an ideal place to use as their shelter. The few miscreants who hadn’t immediately run off at the sight of the infamous pirate crew had been incredibly surprised when they hadn’t kicked them out as soon as they’d taken over the place.

Word had quickly spread, and they now had fifteen kids— all under the age of twelve— making use of the space and their protection. It was mind-boggling to Harry that so many youngsters were so willing to put their trust and faith in them so easily. He never would have been so unsuspecting, even at their young age.

They’d spent the weekend boarding up broken windows, clearing out the clutter and generally making the place livable. It had been a lot of work, but it had been surprisingly satisfying. Even if he had spent most of his time sweeping. So much sweeping. Harry’s elbow twinged at the memory.

“Harry!”

A bunch of kids came running out of the building, barrelling up to him excitedly. He was surprised by the warm swell in his chest he got as he smiled fondly.

“Hey, guys.”

They ran around him, squealing and shouting and vying for his attention as he did his best not to step on anyone as he tried to find somewhere where he could deposit the boxes.

“Bonny!” He bellowed as he made his way through the sliding metal door. She poked her dark head out of the doorway and grinned at the sight of him staggering with boxes and surrounded by street urchins. “Shove them under the stairs. I’ll sort through them in a bit.” He did as told, grateful to have his arms back.

“Harry! I picked a guy's pocket earlier, just like you showed me!”

“Can I touch your sword?”

“Harry, I found a rat!”

“How’s it going so far?” He called to Bonny over the noise. She chuckled, smiling fondly at the children all around them.
“Pretty good, not too much trouble.” Harry snorted, grabbing at a small, bony wrist to prevent its owner from succeeding in their attempt to remove a knife from his belt loop. “I find that hard to believe.”

Everyone had been surprised when Bonny had offered to take charge of the children’s home. She’d never displayed any particularly maternal instincts before, often losing her temper and threatening violence at the slightest inconvenience— even with Gil, who was one of the most innocent, childlike people Harry knew and who seemed to draw out everyone’s protective instincts. Perhaps even more surprising was the fact that she seemed to be doing well at it.

“Hey, Harry!” He glanced over Bonny’s shoulder to see Gil in the shoddy excuse for a kitchen, peeling potatoes.
“Gil,” he greeted.

“Are you here to help out today?” He asked excitedly. Harry shook his head.
“Nah, I’m just dropping stuff off. Gotta check in with DeVil.” Gil nodded, and Bonny raised a curious eyebrow.

“Been any luck there?” Harry shrugged, removing yet another roaming hand from his body as the apparently now bored children tried to determine if he had anything of value on him. “Not sure yet.” He wasn’t sure if he wanted to know. He didn’t think he could take any more bad news.

“Well, I reckon if he proves to be of no use, we should just gut him.” Harry snorted, shaking his head. How on earth had this girl convinced Uma to leave her in charge of the children? “That’d only start a war with Mal; we don’t need that right now.” Bonny just shrugged.
“There’d only be three of them. We could take them easily.” Harry chuckled; he did enjoy her hunger for violence.
“Well, let’s give him a chance to prove himself either way.”

After making sure he still had everything he’d come in with, sans boxes, he began his journey to the rotten four’s hideout. Harry had been assured that none of the others would be there, so he wouldn’t have to worry about being attacked or insulted. Still, the thought of spending time in their territory was enough to make his skin crawl.

He came to a pause outside the building he’d been instructed to and frowned. There were no visible doorways anywhere. Harry’s eyebrows furrowed as he continued to look around. Were they expecting him to scale the building?

He glanced up to see if there were any obvious entrance points above when he noticed a bright yellow sign.

Danger flying rocks.

Harry rolled his eyes and glanced down to find a selection of large rocks gathered suspiciously close together by a large, rotting barrel. He picked one up and hurled it at the sign, managing to hit it square in its middle. The sign swung backwards, and a grated door to his side lifted, revealing a metal staircase.

He followed the stairs up to the very top floor of the building; they clanged and jingled beneath his feet with every step he took. There was no way of making this ascent without being heard by the loft’s inhabitants. It was a good alarm system, Harry had to admit.

Once he reached the top of the stairs, he came out on a small platform with large glass windows made up of small, square panels in a variety of colours. They did little to light the space, but they were certainly pretty.

He headed down a small set of stairs and into the main space. There was graffiti all over the walls, ranging from thorny vines to surprisingly lifelike portraits of the space’s four inhabitants. All of it was a significant step up from the pathetic tags that they frequently left about their territory.

In the middle of the room, sitting in a red armchair that had its stuffing spilling out in several places, was Carlos. A large, clunky-looking laptop sat in his lap. He didn’t seem to have noticed Harry’s arrival.

“You know, if you want to keep your entrance hidden, you might want to spread out the giant rocks a bit.” Annoyingly, the shorter boy didn’t so much as flinch. “I keep telling Mal that, but she won’t listen. She seems to think people are too scared of her to dare try coming in here.” Harry couldn’t help but snort. “That’s cute.” Carlos just gave a distracted hum.

“So,” Harry said as he dropped himself down on the equally ratty couch adjacent to the other lad. “What have you got for me?” He propped his feet up on the couch’s arm, crossing them at the ankles.

Carlos finally looked up from the laptop. He gave the pirate’s dirty boots a look of disdain but didn’t comment. Harry was going to chalk that up to him having good survival instincts. He’d hooked people for less.

“I’ve found nothing on the barrier yet,” Carlos said carefully. Harry raised an eyebrow. He couldn’t help but notice the nervous lilt to the other boy's tone. He was hiding something, that much was obvious.

“But?” He prompted when Carlos remained silent.
“I, uh… I’ve been keeping an eye on Ben. Like we agreed.” Harry’s chest immediately contracted with fear, and he bolted to his feet.
“What’s happened to him?” Carlos scratched at the back of his neck.
“Well, that’s the thing. Nothing’s happened to him.”

Harry’s eyebrows furrowed, annoyance creeping in as the fear receded. “That’s a good thing, isn’t it?” Carlos fidgeted awkwardly in his seat.
“Well, in theory. I mean, no news is good news and all that. It’s just… strange.”

“Strange how?” Harry asked as he perched himself on the arm of Carlos’ chair, glancing over his shoulder at the screen. He appeared to be reading a news article.

“Well, the king and queen are notoriously high profile; the press are present for everything they do. Since Ben’s disappearance, nothing. They’ve completely dropped off the radar. There was an official statement from the palace announcing the prince's return and then radio silence. No photos, nothing. There’s a lot of speculation, but nothing with any proof behind it.”

Harry made an intrigued noise, very pointedly not commenting on the fact that Carlos had brought up both Ben and the prince. The blonde boy hadn’t asked, and Harry was not about to be the one to tell. The fewer people who knew about Ben’s background, the better.

“What do you think it means?” He asked instead. Carlos shrugged.
“The prevailing theory is that the royals are taking time off to reconnect and to give the prince time to adjust.” Harry rolled his eyes, completely uninterested in the royal gossip machine. “I meant about Ben.”
“Oh.”

The single syllable said far more than words ever could.

He knew, or at least suspected, Ben's true identity.

He was keeping the information close to his chest for now, but he knew as well as Harry did that it was only a matter of time. Before long, the royals would be showing him off, parading him around like a shiny new toy for the people. Ben would be on posters telling people to behave and on TV cutting ribbons and giving speeches. The whole Isle would know soon enough.

Harry couldn’t breathe.

“Whoa!” Carlos cried, alarmed as Harry tried, and failed, to get a grip of himself. Before Harry realised what was going on, he was sitting in the chair and Carlos was kneeling awkwardly in front of him, panic-stricken.

“Harry, it’s okay. It will be okay. Between us, we will figure it out.” Harry wished he could share Carlos’ quiet confidence, but he could barely focus on his words thanks to the buzzing in his brain and the indistinct gasps of his breath.

“Harry, look at me,” Carlos said, voice uncharacteristically firm. The sharpness successfully caught Harry’s attention enough that he complied. “Ben is fine. He’s strong and he’s resourceful. He can handle anything they throw at him. In the meantime, we’re gonna figure this out. You’ll be together again before you know it.”

The surety in the shorter boy’s tone had Harry nodding his agreement. If Carlos of all people could be this certain of their success, then maybe they had a better chance than Harry was allowing himself to believe.

A weight that he hadn’t even been aware of lifted from his chest. “That’s it.” Carlos cooed. “Just breathe.”

They sat in silence for a while as Harry regained control of himself. He scrubbed a hand over his face and was horrified to find it wet. As if this wasn’t humiliating enough.

“I should go.” He mumbled, clearing his throat as he lurched to his feet, causing Carlos to rock back on his heels.

“I’ll keep looking!” Carlos called after his retreating figure. Harry raised his hand in a vague attempt at showing he’d heard, but just kept walking.

As if he hadn’t already shown enough weakness in front of Mal’s crew, now he’d gone and cried in front of one of them. There was no way Carlos could keep that to himself; it would be bordering on treason.

He speed walked back to the ship, doing his best to avoid attention as he mentally berated himself. He needed to get a grip, for Ben’s sake if not his own.

As he reached the ship, he headed straight down below deck, ignoring the calls of his name. He just needed a moment alone.

He headed straight to his quarters, slamming the door shut behind him and leaning against the wood. He let his head fall back and released a heavy sigh.

“Well, aren’t you a sorry sight?”

Harry jumped, hand reaching for his cutlass as his eyes snapped open. He gave a heavy sigh as he saw Uma sitting on his bed, completely at ease. “One day you’re gonna get yourself stabbed.” He said with a huff, relaxing slightly. She sent him a wry smile but didn’t comment.

“How’d it go with DeVil?” No small talk then. He shouldn’t be surprised.

“Well, I'm pretty sure Carlos knows the truth, there's nothing on the barrier, and there’s no trace of Ben.” He said flatly, “Oh, and the king and queen have completely dropped off the face of the earth.” Uma’s eyebrows furrowed.
“That doesn’t make any sense.” Harry shrugged, dropping down beside her on his cot.
“The press seems to think they’re taking time to reconnect.” Uma shot him a sideways look.
“The press?” She repeated.
“There’s a lot of speculation and gossip.”

She gently pressed her shoulder against his, and he released a soft sigh, leaning his head against hers. “Hanging in?” She asked softly, causing Harry to groan. “Barely.” He muttered. “I feel like I keep falling apart on people.” Uma hummed thoughtfully.

Before either of them could say any more, there was a hesitant knock on the door. “What?” Uma called, clearly unimpressed. Harry could only assume there’d been an order for them not to be disturbed.

“Sorry, Captain,” Jonas said as he timidly poked his head around the door. “There’s someone here to see you, she says it’s important.” Harry frowned, sending the turquoise-haired girl a confused look. “Who is it?” She asked wearily.
“The Enchantress.”

Harry stared at him with total disbelief before turning to Uma, who was frowning. “What does she want?” She asked, eyes narrowing suspiciously. Jonas shrugged. “She wouldn’t say. Just insisted upon talking to the two of you.” Uma gave a nod.
“We’ll be right up.”

“What do you think she wants?” Harry asked as soon as Jonas was gone. Uma’s expression was thoughtful as she shrugged.
“Could be anything.” Harry narrowed his eyes.
“But what do you think?” Uma smiled ruefully. She forgot how well Harry knew her sometimes.
“I think we’d better go and find out.” Harry gave a huff of annoyance but got to his feet. It was clear that whatever she was thinking, she wasn’t going to share it.

They got up on deck to find a hooded figure in a long grey cloak that had probably once been white, standing by the mast. The few crew members who were around were giving her a wide berth and shooting curious and terrified looks her way when they thought no one would see. Harry suspected that even without her powers, the Enchantress saw everything.

“You wanted to speak with us?” Uma addressed the witch as she approached. Harry was a little more careful as he joined them. The Enchantress was not someone you wanted to antagonise or disrespect. There was much more to her than transformation spells and magic roses.

The Enchantress lifted her head, eyeing them both thoughtfully as she pushed back her hood. “Is there somewhere quiet we can speak? The information I have is quite… sensitive.” Her eyes cut towards Harry briefly as she said it, and it made his stomach twist uncomfortably. It seemed Uma had noticed it too, her own eyes finding Harry’s before quickly looking away again. “Follow me.”

The trio silently made their way down to Uma’s quarters, the tension hanging heavy between them. Despite it, the Enchantress seemed quite at ease. Harry couldn’t help but wonder what game she was playing.

His hand silently made its way to the hilt of his cutlass, just in case. “You won’t be needing that.” She said without even turning to look. “I mean you no harm.” Harry returned his arm to his side but couldn’t quell the unease within him.

“I apologise for the secrecy,” she said once they were safely in Uma’s room. “But I can’t imagine this is something you’d want getting out.” The two pirates exchanged a look as the Enchantress made herself comfortable in the chair by Uma’s desk. “I guess we’ll find out.” Uma sent her a tight smile.

“The young Blackbeard boy who was taken recently. You know his true identity?” They both nodded, and Harry did his best not to let his confusion show. What on earth did Ben have to do with anything? “Then you know that I cursed his father.” Uma’s expression was carefully blank as the two women stared at each other. It was unnerving.

“How about we get to the part where you tell us something we don’t already know?” Harry said, starting to grow frustrated. The unease in his stomach was only growing more intense with every second that passed, and the Enchantress’s unnaturally calm demeanour was only setting him even more on edge. She was clearly enjoying keeping them in suspense.

“The curse wasn’t just for the king.” Her ever calm gaze fell on Harry, and a chill came over him, the hairs rising all over his skin.
“Who else was it for?” Uma asked, tone sharp.
“Everyone of his bloodline.”

A heavy silence hung over the room as the information sank in.

But that means…

“So you’re saying Ben is cursed, too?” She nodded, calm despite the silent rage rolling off of Uma in waves.
“Quite. If he’d been left here under their prison dome, it probably never would have taken hold, especially with his close… alliance with you.” She turned her gaze pointedly to Harry, and he forced himself not to react. “And now?” He asked through gritted teeth.
“Now he’s got a matter of months before he feels the punishment of his father’s callousness.”

“Ben is nothing like the King,” Harry said incredulously. “He doesn’t deserve this.” The Enchantress merely shrugged.
“Whether he does or does not is not my concern. The King will have to live with the guilt of knowing that his only son’s suffering is his fault. Especially under the circumstances.”

“What is that supposed to mean?” Uma snapped, catching them all by surprise. Uma rarely lost her temper in front of outsiders.
“If the Prince does not receive true love’s kiss within a year of his transformation, he will be trapped as a mindless beast forever.” The Enchantress smiled, sickly sweet and infuriating. “Given the King's strong beliefs regarding those of us he deems as villains, I think it is very unlikely that he’ll seek you out to administer the antidote to the Prince’s curse. Don’t you agree?”

Harry stiffened from head to toe. She was saying that he was the only one who could break her curse on Ben, and since he was stuck here, Ben was doomed. He couldn’t let that happen. He couldn’t.

“Why are you telling us all this?” Uma asked, her tone tight, the words clipped. The Enchantress shrugged, getting to her feet.
“I thought you would want to know. What you choose to do with the information is up to you, but you’re an enterprising young girl. Strong, powerful. If anyone can find a way to act upon it despite the current… obstacles, it’s you.”

With that, she swept out of the room, leaving the two pirates standing in shocked silence as they tried to figure out what in evil’s name they could do.