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Chapter Text

The sun-drenched courtyard of Auridon Prep buzzed with a nervous energy that even the cheerful melodies of the marching band couldn't dispel. Students walked around, their eyes darting towards the gates every few seconds. At the center of it all stood Ben, beaming with pride and excitement, seemingly oblivious to the tension around him. A bomb could go off behind him and he wouldn’t notice.

Audrey stood a few paces behind Ben, her perfectly manicured nails digging into her palms. She forced a smile onto her face, all too aware of the eyes watching her for any sign of disapproval. The marching band, with their polished instruments glinting in the sunlight, struck up another peppy tune. Audrey winced internally.

"A marching band, Ben? Really?" she muttered under her breath, careful to keep her lips from moving too much. "They're going to hate this."

Her eyes scanned the crowd, landing on Doug. The boy was fidgeting with his band uniform, looking as nervous as Audrey felt. She'd assigned him as the VKs' student aide, hoping his gentle demeanor would help ease the transition. Now, watching him shift from foot to foot, she wondered if she'd made the right choice. It’d be nice if she could look that nervous right now.

A flash of movement caught her eye, and she spotted Chad lurking near the edges of the courtyard. He was partially hidden behind a pillar, close enough to keep an eye on proceedings but far enough to avoid direct involvement. Their eyes met briefly, and he gave her a small nod of encouragement. Audrey allowed a small smile to form on her face. Knowing that he was there was enough to send a warm feeling through her body.

The distant rumble of an engine cut through the band's music, and a hush fell over the crowd. Audrey straightened her posture, her heart pounding. This was it. The villain kids were here. As the sleek black limo approached the gates, Audrey leaned close to Ben's ear.

"Remember," she whispered, "they're probably scared. Try not to overwhelm them."

Ben nodded, but the excited gleam in his eyes told Audrey he hadn't really heard her. She sighed, bracing herself for whatever chaos was about to unfold. This was going to be either really good or really bad.

The limo rolled to a stop, and for a moment, everything was still. Audrey held her breath, acutely aware of the hundreds of eyes all focused on that car door. As it began to open, she silently prayed to any deity who might be listening that this wouldn't be a complete disaster.

The limo door swung open, and Audrey's world tilted on its axis.

Instead of the four VKs she'd been expecting, three entirely different figures emerged.

A girl with long, teal braids and a confident swagger stepped out first, her eyes scanning the crowd with a mixture of curiosity and wariness. Audrey almost had to force herself to look away from the girl in front of her. Everything about the other girl screamed from the ocean and Audrey couldn’t help but glance toward the necklace around the girl’s neck; she’d seen a picture of that necklace before. Considering Ursula wouldn’t give that necklace to just anyone, Audrey was pretty sure this was Uma.

Behind her, a tall boy with dark hair and kohl-rimmed eyes sauntered out, a hook gleaming on his left hand. Audrey is the first to admit that her eyes linger a little bit too long on his leather clad shoulders, before she turns her attention to his face. Harry Hook was almost as pretty as Chad. It was a very close line, and she really wanted to compare the two side by side.

The last to exit was a muscular blonde boy, his easy smile a stark contrast to his companions' guarded expressions. Considering that Harry and Uma were here, Audrey was willing to bet this was Gil. He was like sunshine, and a bunch of puppies all rolled into a human. She hesitated for a second before subtly pinching her arm. Audrey really liked the idea that he could pick her up and toss her over his shoulder.

Audrey's breath caught in her throat. These weren't Mal, Evie, Jay, and Carlos. These were Uma, Harry Hook, and Gil - the sea witch's daughter and her pirate crew. And they were... stunning.

Audrey felt her cheeks warm as she struggled to maintain her composure. She'd never been so immediately drawn to anyone before, let alone three people at once. The realization that she found both Uma and the boys attractive hit her like a tidal wave. Was this what a bisexual crisis felt like?

Her internal struggle was interrupted when Harry's gaze landed on her. His smirk widened as he sauntered over, ignoring Ben's outstretched hand.

"Well, well," Harry drawled, his accent sending shivers down Audrey's spine. "If it isn't the fairest rose in all of Auradon. Pleasure to meet ye, princess."

Audrey's heart raced as Harry took her hand and pressed a kiss to her knuckles. It was only years of training that kept her face from turning a bright crimson. She managed a polite smile, willing her voice not to shake. "Welcome to Auridon Prep. I hope you'll find your stay... enlightening."

As Ben began his welcome speech, Audrey's mind raced. Doug, still fidgeting nearby, looked even more nervous now. There was no way he could handle this trio - they'd eat him alive within minutes.

When Ben started leading the pirates towards the school, Audrey caught Chad's eye and motioned him over urgently. From the way his eyes lingered on Uma, she was pretty sure they were both having a bit of a crisis right now.

"Change of plans," she whispered as soon as he was within earshot. "We're improvising. Doug's out as student aide."

Chad nodded, understanding immediately. "I'll handle it. You okay? You look a bit... flushed."

Audrey waved off his concern, trying to ignore the way her skin still tingled where Harry had kissed her hand. "I'm fine. Just... surprised. Let's go catch up with Ben before he says something ridiculous."

Chad chuckled before falling into step beside her with a gentle hand on the center of her back. Audrey couldn't shake the feeling that things were about to get a lot more complicated - and a lot more interesting - than she'd ever anticipated. As they approached the group, Audrey's mind raced. She couldn't shake the feeling that leaving Uma alone in a dorm was a recipe for trouble. Before she could second-guess herself, she spoke up.

"Uma," Audrey said, her voice steady despite her internal turmoil, "I was thinking... perhaps you'd like to room with me? It might help you adjust better if you're not isolated."

Uma raised an eyebrow, a smirk playing at her lips. "Oh? And here I thought you Auradon types would want to keep us separated and under lock and key."

Audrey met Uma's gaze, unflinching. "We're not all the same, just like I'm sure you three aren't carbon copies of your parents."

Uma's smirk widened into a genuine smile. "Well, well. You might be more interesting than I thought, princess. I accept your offer."

Ben beamed at Audrey, clearly thrilled by her initiative. "That's wonderful! I'm so glad you're making an effort to welcome our new students, Audrey."

But Audrey barely registered Ben's words. Her attention was captivated by Uma's piercing gaze, before flicking briefly to Harry and Gil. The pirates exuded a dangerous allure that she found impossible to ignore. It was only the light tap that Chad did on her shoulder that kept her from saying anything stupid.

Chad, ever quick on his feet, stepped forward. "Allow me to introduce myself properly. I'm Chad Charming, and I'll be your student aide during your stay here."

Harry's eyes lit up with interest.

"Charming by name and nature, I hope," he purred, leaning in close to Chad.

Chad didn't miss a beat, meeting Harry's flirtatious gaze with a cool smile. "I do my best to live up to the name. Now, how about I show you and Gil to your dorm room? We can do a proper tour of the grounds later."

As Chad led Harry and Gil away, Audrey found herself alone with Uma and Ben. The teal-haired girl was looking around with poorly disguised curiosity, while Ben continued to ramble excitedly about Auridon Prep's history. Neither of them were listening to him. Audrey couldn’t even begin to describe how beautiful the girl in front of her was.

"I'll show Uma to our room," Audrey interrupted softly. "I'm sure she'd like to get settled in."

Ben nodded enthusiastically. "Of course! I'll catch up with you both later. There's so much to discuss!"

He pulled Audrey into a quick side hug that she didn’t really respond to.

As Ben hurried off, probably to report to his parents, Audrey turned to Uma. "Shall we?"

Uma grinned, a hint of mischief in her eyes. "Lead the way, roomie. I have a feeling this is going to be a very interesting stay."

Audrey swallowed hard, her heart racing as she led Uma towards their shared room. This was most likely a mistake, but she didn’t mind making a mistake or two when a pretty girl was looking at her.

Chapter Text

As Audrey led Uma into the dorm room, the sea witch's daughter paused in the doorway, her eyebrows rising in surprise. The room was far from what she'd imagined a princess's quarters would look like. Instead of frills and lace, she was greeted by the sight of a makeshift office.

The bed on the right side of the room was barely visible beneath stacks of books, folders, and loose documents. A large desk nearby was similarly cluttered, with a laptop peeking out from beneath more papers. The walls, while painted a soft pink, were adorned with complex-looking charts and maps rather than the expected posters or artwork.

"Oh!" Audrey exclaimed, her cheeks flushing as she rushed to clear off the second bed. "I'm so sorry about this mess. It's been a bit... hectic lately."

Uma watched with amusement as Audrey frantically gathered armfuls of papers and books, trying to create some semblance of order.

"Don't worry about it, princess. I'm used to a little chaos." Her eyes scanned the room again. "Though I gotta say, this is more of an office than a bedroom."

Audrey paused in her frantic tidying, a sheepish smile on her face. Her eyes shifted to where the desk was covered with papers and documents. The rush of setting up Ben’s last second proclamation had almost driven both her and Chad crazy. She’d only survived on coffee and cake while Chad had given in to his urge to cut at foliage more than once.

"I suppose it is. I've been working on some... projects lately." She gestured vaguely at the cleared bed. "This is a bit of a last-minute arrangement, so I haven't had time to prepare properly."

Uma's lips curled into a knowing smirk. "Last-minute, huh? Let me guess - this wasn't supposed to be my room in the first place?"

Audrey's eyes widened slightly, caught off guard by Uma's perceptiveness.

"I... well, that is..." she stammered, unsure how to respond.

Uma chuckled, dropping her bag on the newly cleared bed.

"Relax, princess. I'm not offended. In fact," she said, her voice lowering as she stepped closer to Audrey, "I'm rather intrigued. What kind of 'projects' require all this secrecy?"

Audrey swallowed hard, acutely aware of Uma's proximity. "Nothing sinister, I assure you. Just... royal duties. Keeping things running smoothly."

"Uh-huh," Uma said, clearly unconvinced but amused nonetheless. She flopped onto the bed, stretching out like a cat. "Well, looks like we'll have plenty of time to get to know each other, roomie. This might be more fun than I thought."

Audrey nodded, her heart racing as she tried to regain her composure. She had a feeling that rooming with Uma was going to be both thrilling and terrifying in equal measure. As she turned to organize her desk, she couldn't help but wonder what she'd gotten herself into.

(Chad)

Chad led Harry and Gil down the hallway of the dormitory, acutely aware of the eyes following their every move. The usual chatter of students died down as they passed, replaced by hushed whispers and wary glances. He noticed how other students pressed themselves against the walls, giving the pirates a wide berth.

"Seems we've got quite the welcoming committee, eh?" Harry remarked with a smirk, twirling his hook menacingly. Gil, on the other hand, seemed oblivious to the tension, gawking at the ornate decorations lining the corridor.

Chad forced a smile, trying to maintain his composure. "Don't mind them. They're just... curious. It's not every day we get new students from the Isle."

As they rounded a corner, a group of younger students gasped and scurried away. Chad winced internally, realizing this transition might be more challenging than they'd anticipated.

"Here we are," Chad announced, stopping in front of a door. He unlocked it and swung it open, revealing a spacious room with two beds, desks, and a large window overlooking the school grounds.

Harry sauntered in, eyeing the room with a mixture of disdain and interest.

"Not bad," he drawled.

Gil bounded in after him, his face lit up with excitement. "Wow! Look at this place, Harry! It's so... clean!"

Chad couldn't help but chuckle at Gil's enthusiasm. "I hope you'll both be comfortable here. If you need anything, just let me know."

Harry turned to face Chad, a dangerous glint in his eye. "Oh, we will, pretty boy. We most certainly will."

As Chad closed the door behind him, he leaned against it for a moment, exhaling slowly. The pirates' arrival was already causing quite a stir, and he had a feeling this was just the beginning. He made a mental note to discuss additional integration strategies with Audrey later. For now, he plastered on his charming smile and headed back down the hallway, ready to face the barrage of questions he knew were coming.

Chad had barely made it ten steps from Harry and Gil's room when Lonnie appeared, practically materializing out of thin air.

"Chad! Is it true? Are the pirates really here?" Her eyes were wide with a mix of excitement and apprehension.

Chad blinked, adopting his 'dumb blonde' persona with practiced ease. "Oh, hey Lonnie! Yeah, they're here. Just showed them to their room. Did you know they've never seen a real bed before? Crazy, right?"

Lonnie's jaw dropped. "Really? That's... wow. What are they like? Are they dangerous?"

Chad shrugged, maintaining his façade of obliviousness. "They seem okay. One of them has a hook, which is pretty cool. The other one's really excited about everything. It's kinda cute, actually."

"But aren't you worried?" Lonnie pressed.

"About what?" Chad asked, feigning confusion. "Oh, look at the time! I've got to run. See you later, Lonnie!"

He darted away before she could ask any more questions, allowing his expression to shift back to one of concentration once he was out of sight. He made a beeline for his room, quickly retrieving the folder Audrey had requested earlier that morning.

Next stop: the kitchen. Chad charmed his way past the staff, assembling a tray laden with coffee and an assortment of cakes. He knew Audrey would need the caffeine boost, and the sugar wouldn't hurt either.

As he approached Audrey's room, a sudden thought made him pause.

"Please don't let Audrey have traded away her kingdom already," he muttered to himself. He knew all too well how susceptible both he and Audrey were to attractive people, and Uma certainly fit that category.

Come on, Audrey, he thought, please still be in possession of your crown when I walk in there.

Chapter Text

Uma watched Audrey with growing interest as the princess answered her questions about Auridon. She couldn't help but notice how Audrey's cheeks flushed slightly whenever their eyes met, or how she'd occasionally stumble over her words. It was clear that Audrey was affected by her presence, and she found herself enjoying the effect she had on the princess. It was much more fun to tease Audrey than she’d thought it would be. Plus the princess was pretty when she blushed, Harry was going to love teasing her.

"So, as I was saying," Audrey continued, her voice steady despite her flustered state, "there are quite a few extracurricular activities available. We have everything from sports teams to academic clubs, and even—"

The door swung open, interrupting Audrey mid-sentence. Chad walked in, balancing a folder and a tray laden with cake and coffee. His eyes were focused on the tray, ensuring nothing spilled.

"Hey Audrey, I brought those files you asked for, and I thought we could use a snack," Chad said, setting the tray down on a nearby table. He made his way to Audrey's couch and settled in, barely reacting to Uma's presence. He handed the folder to Audrey before a thought seemed to strike him.

"Oh, wait," Chad said, finally glancing at Uma. "Does this mean I have to go back to sleeping in my own dorm room?"

Audrey tensed visibly at the question, her eyes widening slightly, she hadn’t even considered that having Uma as a roommate might lead to Chad going back to his dorm.

Uma's eyebrows rose, her interest piqued by this new development.

"I... well..." Audrey stammered, clearly caught off guard. She shot a quick, worried glance at Chad, then at Uma, before continuing, "I hadn't really thought about that."

If it came down to it, she’d start spending her nights in Chad’s room. She hated the idea of him being alone.

Uma leaned forward, a mischievous glint in her eye. "Oh? And here I thought I was the only one getting special rooming arrangements. Do tell, princess."

Audrey's cheeks flushed deeper. "It's not... Chad's roommate requested a room change last year, and we often work late on projects, so it just made sense for him to stay here sometimes."

"I can go back to my room if it's a problem," he offered, though he didn't sound particularly enthused by the idea. He hated being alone more than he hated his pretty boy nickname.

Uma could see the conflict playing out on Audrey's face. She decided to play nice, just this once.

"Well," Uma drawled, enjoying the tension in the room, "I don't see why we can't all coexist. After all, I'm sure there's plenty of room for everyone."

She winked at Audrey, causing the princess to blush even more.

Audrey swallowed hard, looking between Chad and Uma. "I... suppose we could figure something out. If everyone's comfortable with that arrangement?"

Chad nodded, relief evident on his face. Uma simply smirked, settling back on her bed.

"Oh, I'm very comfortable," Uma said, her eyes never leaving Audrey's face. "I think this is going to be a very interesting stay indeed."

Audrey nodded, trying to regain her composure. Chad watched Audrey carefully, noting how her eyes kept darting to Uma. He'd never seen her so captivated by anyone before, not even Ben. While he could certainly see Uma's appeal... Audrey was his best friend, and he didn't trust anyone else with her safety - except maybe Ben, and only during public events when the prince couldn't wander off.

Before Chad could dwell on these thoughts further, the door burst open again. Harry and Gil tumbled in, looking slightly sheepish but mostly amused.

"Ah, there ye are," Harry drawled, his eyes scanning the room before landing on Chad. "We might've followed ye here, mate."

Chad hid a laugh behind his hand, shaking his head at the pirates' antics. Of course, they'd followed him, why wouldn't they want to be in the same place as their leader.

Audrey sighed, but there was a hint of amusement in her voice as she said, "Well, you're here now. Welcome to our... increasingly crowded room."

Gil's face lit up as he looked around, but then his expression quickly turned to a pout. "This is nice and all, but I'm starving. Is there any food around here?"

Audrey stilled for a moment, sharing a quick glance with Chad. It was clear they were both thinking the same thing - they couldn't let their new guests go hungry, but taking them to the school cafeteria might be overwhelming. Especially considering neither she nor Chad wanted to go to the cafeteria either.

"You know what?" Audrey said, her voice taking on a decisive tone. "Why don't we all go out to eat? It would be a good opportunity to show you around a bit of Auradon, outside of the school grounds."

Uma's eyebrows rose in surprise, while Harry and Gil exchanged excited looks.

"Ye mean we get to leave the school already?" Harry asked, a mischievous glint in his eye.

"Under supervision, of course," Audrey quickly added, trying to maintain some semblance of control.

Chad was already on his feet, phone in hand, while Audrey offered Gil the cake that Chad had brought her. She did however drink the coffee considering she had a long night when they returned.

"I'll make a reservation at one of my family's restaurants near campus," he said, stepping away to make the call.

As Chad arranged their dinner plans, Audrey found herself surrounded by the three VKs. Uma was eyeing her with interest, while Harry and Gil seemed to be vibrating with excitement at the prospect of exploring Auradon.

"Well, well, princess," Uma said, her voice low enough that only Audrey could hear. "Taking us out on the town already? You sure know how to make a girl feel special."

Audrey felt her cheeks warm again, but she managed to keep her voice steady as she replied, "I just want to ensure you all have a positive first impression of Auridon."

Uma's smirk widened. "Oh, I'd say my first impressions have been very positive indeed."

When Chad returned to confirm their dinner plans, Audrey took a deep breath. This impromptu dinner outing was sure to be interesting, to say the least. She just hoped she could keep her composure long enough to make it through the meal.

As they made their way off campus, Audrey found herself pleasantly surprised by the easy rapport that developed between Chad and Gil. Her usually reserved partner was animatedly discussing various pastries with the pirate, his eyes alight with genuine interest. Audrey couldn't help but smile. It was rare to see Chad drop his 'dumb jock' facade so completely, especially around new people. She made a mental note to encourage more of these interactions. It'd been a while since Chad was happy like this. She carefully avoided the fact that she hadn't genuinely smiled in a while either.

Behind them, Harry and Uma were engaged in a hushed conversation.

"What's your game here, Uma?" Harry asked, his voice low. "I've never seen you openly flirt like this before."

Uma's reply was equally quiet but firm. "I'm thinking long-term, Harry. If we can get these royals attached to us, they might be more inclined to help us get the other VKs off the Isle."

Harry's eyes lit up with understanding and mischief. "So, you're saying I'm free to turn on the charm with both of them, eh?"

Uma rolled her eyes but nodded. "Just don't overdo it, yeah?"

As they approached the restaurant, Audrey pushed aside her curiosity about the pirates' conversation. The establishment was clearly upscale, with a sleek modern exterior that gleamed in the evening light. It was also filled with spies reporting to Chad's grandfather so it was the safest place that Chad could've chosen.

"Here we are," Chad announced, holding the door open for the group.

As they entered, Audrey couldn't help but notice the way the VKs' eyes widened at the opulent interior. Crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling, casting a warm glow over the polished wood tables and plush velvet chairs. The aroma of delicious food wafted through the air, causing Gil to inhale deeply with a look of pure bliss.

A maître d' approached them, recognition flashing in his eyes as he spotted Chad and Audrey. "Mr. Charming, Princess Audrey, welcome. Your table is ready. If you and your... guests would follow me."

As they were led to their table, Audrey could feel the eyes of other patrons on them. She straightened her posture, determined to show the VKs the best of Auradon hospitality. However, she couldn't shake the feeling that this dinner was going to be anything but ordinary.

Once seated, with menus in hand, Uma leaned towards Audrey with a smirk. "So, princess, what do you recommend for a girl's first taste of Auridon cuisine?"

Audrey felt her cheeks warm at Uma's proximity but managed to keep her voice steady as she began to explain the menu. She was acutely aware of Harry's gaze flicking between her and Chad, a mischievous glint in his eye. She really hoped that she'd survive without offering them a small estate; maybe they'd like one near the water. Or an island, she could buy them an island if they wanted.

Throughout the meal, Harry seemed to make it his personal mission to flirt shamelessly with both Chad and Audrey. His comments ranged from subtle compliments to more overt innuendos, causing Audrey to blush and Chad to alternate between amusement and flustered responses.

Both Chad and Harry noticed the attentive gazes of the restaurant staff. The servers seemed to be hovering more than usual, clearly intrigued by the unusual group and their interactions.

Leaning towards Audrey, Chad murmured, "I give it less than an hour before my grandfather hears about this."

Audrey's eyes sparkled with amusement.

"Well," she whispered back, "at least it's your grandfather and not my grandmother finding out. Can you imagine?"

Chad snorted softly, shaking his head at the thought of Queen Leah's reaction.

Throughout the meal, Uma observed the easy familiarity between Chad and Audrey with interest. They moved in sync, anticipating each other's needs and sharing looks that seemed to convey entire conversations. It was a stark contrast to how Audrey had been introduced as Ben's girlfriend. Uma filed this information away for later, deciding not to broach the subject just yet.

As the meal wound down, Gil stared longingly at the dessert menu, his lower lip jutting out in a slight pout. "There's so many... I wish I could try them all."

Chad, noticing Gil's disappointment, signaled a waiter. "Could we get a selection of desserts to go, please? One of each should do it."

Gil's face lit up like a child on Christmas morning. "Really? We can take them with us?"

Chad nodded, a warm smile on his face. "Of course. Consider it a welcome gift."

As they prepared to leave, Audrey couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions. The dinner had gone surprisingly well, with conversation flowing easily and laughter frequent. Yet, she was acutely aware of the growing complications in her life. The way Harry's flirtations had affected both her and Chad, Uma's keen observations, and the easy camaraderie developing with the VKs – it all pointed to a future far more complex than she had anticipated.

As they stepped out into the cool evening air, dessert boxes in hand, Audrey realized that this was just the beginning. Whatever came next, she had a feeling life at Auradon Prep was about to get a lot more interesting.

When they exited the restaurant, a sleek black limo was waiting at the curb. Chad let out a resigned sigh, recognizing the vehicle immediately.

"Looks like Grandfather's already keeping tabs," he muttered, then turned to the group with a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, it's safe. He's just... attentive."

Before anyone could respond, Audrey had already crossed the distance and slipped into the limo without hesitation. The others followed, with Chad bringing up the rear.

Inside, the driver greeted them with a polite nod.

"Good evening, Princess Audrey," he said, a small smile playing on his lips. He then turned his attention to the others. "Master Chad, and... esteemed guests. Welcome aboard."

Chad leaned forward, curiosity evident in his voice. "Did Grandfather send you, James?"

The driver chuckled, his eyes twinkling in the rearview mirror. "Indeed he did, Master Chad. He thought you might appreciate a comfortable ride back to school."

Harry's eyes narrowed slightly, his gaze flicking between Chad and the driver.

"Quite the surveillance system ye've got here, mate," he said, his tone a mix of admiration and wariness.

Uma, meanwhile, was preoccupied with Gil, who was eyeing the boxes of desserts with poorly concealed longing.

"Gil, I swear if you start eating those now..." she began, exasperation clear in her voice.

Gil's lower lip jutted out in a pout. "But Uma, I'm hungry again!"

Uma rolled her eyes, but there was a fondness in her expression. "We literally just ate, you bottomless pit."

Audrey, observing this interaction, couldn't help but smile. She caught Chad's eye, and they shared a look of understanding.

When the limo pulled away from the curb, Audrey found herself wedged between Uma and Harry, with Chad across from her next to Gil. The close quarters made her acutely aware of Uma's warmth beside her and Harry's leg brushing against hers.

"So, princess," Uma said, her voice low enough that only Audrey could hear, "is this level of... attention normal for you and Charming?"

Audrey hesitated for a moment before responding. "It's... complicated. But yes, to an extent. We've learned to live with it."

Uma nodded, her expression thoughtful. "Interesting."

As they drove back to Auridon Prep, the conversation flowed easily between the group. Chad regaled them with stories of his grandfather's more amusing attempts at surveillance, while Harry and Gil shared tales of their adventures on the Isle. Audrey found herself relaxing, despite the unexpected turn the evening had taken. As she glanced around at the unlikely group gathered in the limo, she realized that her world was expanding in ways she never could have predicted. And despite the complications it might bring, she found herself looking forward to what might come next.

When they entered Audrey's dorm room, the princess wasn't surprised to see the pirates gravitate towards a corner near Uma's bed, clearly intending to make it their temporary home. She was fairly sure that neither of them would leave Uma's side while they were here. It was a bit endearing how loyal they were to her, and a bit enviable. Not that Audrey really thought much about it, after all, she had Chad and he was all she needed.

"There are extra blankets and sheets in the closet if you need them," Audrey said absently, her mind already on her next task. She moved to her closet, rifling through her extensive wardrobe in search of the perfect outfit for tomorrow's council meeting.

Chad, meanwhile, settled at Audrey's desk, pulling out a stack of papers with a slight grimace.

"Grandfather's building contracts," he explained to no one in particular, his tone betraying a hint of reluctance. Despite his focus on the documents, he found his gaze periodically drawn to the pirates as they constructed their makeshift nest.

Uma and Gil were engrossed in arranging blankets and pillows into a cozy setup, but Harry's attention was elsewhere. His eyes followed Audrey as she moved between outfits, a curious glint in his gaze.

As Audrey held up a dark blue dress, contemplating its suitability, Harry's voice broke the comfortable silence that had settled over the room.

"That one would look good on ye, princess," he said, his accent thicker than usual.

Audrey froze, the dress still held in front of her. She turned slowly, her eyes meeting Harry's intense gaze. A blush crept up her cheeks, and she found herself at a loss for words. Chad's head snapped up at Harry's comment, his eyes darting between the pirate and Audrey. There was a mix of surprise and something else in his expression. Hearing Harry admit that Audrey looked good in his colors left Chad a bit overwhelmed.

Uma, noticing the sudden tension in the room, raised an eyebrow.

"He's not wrong, you know," she added, her tone casual but her eyes sharp. "Blue's definitely your color, Audrey."

Audrey swallowed hard, her composure momentarily shaken by the unexpected compliments. When had been the last time someone other than Chad had complimented her?

"I... thank you," she managed, her voice slightly breathier than usual. "I'll keep that in mind."

Gil, oblivious to the undercurrents in the room, piped up cheerfully, "Can we see you try it on? I bet you'd look like a princess! Oh wait, you are a princess!"

His innocent enthusiasm broke the tension, causing Chad to chuckle and Uma to roll her eyes fondly.

Audrey, regaining her composure, offered a small smile. "Perhaps another time, Gil. It's getting late, and we all have a big day tomorrow."

As she carefully hung the blue dress back in her closet, Audrey couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and trepidation. The VKs' presence was already shaking up her carefully ordered world, and this was just the first day. She glanced at Chad, seeing her own conflicted emotions mirrored in his eyes. Sure they were pretty sure that Uma's crew were manipulating them, but having positive attention for once was nice.

When night fell, Uma was surprised to see that despite turning off most of the lights for the VKs' benefit, Audrey and Chad continued to work at the coffee table, illuminated by a few soft lamps. The two royals bent over papers and laptops, their hushed voices a constant, low murmur in the room. Uma and Harry exchanged glances, silently agreeing to keep watch. They observed the industrious pair throughout the night, fascinated by their dedication and the easy synchronicity with which they worked.

It wasn't until around 3 AM that Audrey finally called it quits, her voice heavy with exhaustion. "That's enough for tonight," she mumbled, stumbling towards her bed.

Chad, equally tired but still attentive, gently draped a blanket over Audrey before making his way to the couch. Within seconds, both royals were fast asleep, their breathing deep and even.

Harry raised an eyebrow, a mix of amusement and disbelief on his face.

"Well, would ye look at that," he whispered to Uma. "They just... conked out. With us villains right here."

Uma nodded, her expression thoughtful.

"Is this normal?" she wondered aloud. "Or are they just that exhausted?"

Before they could ponder further, their own exhaustion caught up with them. They had barely dozed off when a shrill alarm pierced the air, jolting everyone awake.

Audrey was up in an instant, moving with surprising grace for someone who'd had barely two hours of sleep. She headed straight for the bathroom to prepare for her council meeting.

Harry groaned, burying his face in a pillow.

"Bloody hell, we just fell asleep," he grumbled, irritation clear in his voice.

Uma blinked, still groggy, as she watched Chad spring into action. He was at Audrey's vanity, arranging hair accessories and makeup with practiced ease.

When Audrey emerged from the bathroom, Uma's eyes widened slightly. The princess was wearing the dark blue dress Harry had commented on the night before.

Harry, despite his irritation at being woken, couldn't help but notice.

"Well, well," he drawled, his voice husky from sleep. "Looks like ye took my advice after all, princess."

Audrey's cheeks flushed slightly, but she didn't respond, instead moving to sit at her vanity where Chad was waiting. With deft movements, Chad began styling her hair, the two of them falling into what was clearly a well-practiced routine.

Uma watched this display with growing curiosity. The level of trust and intimacy between Audrey and Chad was evident, yet it didn't quite fit with what she knew of Audrey's relationship with Ben.

As Audrey prepared to leave for her meeting, Uma couldn't help but feel that there was much more to these Auradon royals than met the eye. She exchanged a look with Harry, seeing her own intrigue mirrored in his eyes. It seemed that their stay in Auradon was going to be far more interesting than they had initially thought.

As soon as the door closed behind Audrey, Chad moved with purpose. He walked over to her bedside table, reset the alarm for three hours later, and then, to the pirates' surprise, collapsed onto Audrey's bed.

Harry, still groggy but curious, propped himself up on an elbow. "Oi, Charming, what's the deal?"

Chad, already burrowing into Audrey's blankets, turned his head towards the pirates. His voice was muffled by the pillow as he spoke, "Sorry about our sleep habits. It's why neither of us have roommates anymore."

Uma and Harry exchanged glances, their eyebrows raised in surprise.

"Ye mean this is normal for ye two?" Harry asked, a mix of disbelief and amusement in his voice.

Chad nodded sleepily.

"Council meetings, royal duties, school... it all adds up. We've learned to grab sleep when we can." His eyes were already drifting closed as he added, "Don't worry, we'll be more considerate going forward."

Before either of the pirates could respond, Chad was fast asleep, curled up in Audrey's blankets as if it was the most natural thing in the world.

Uma leaned back, her mind whirring with this new information. "Well, that explains a few things," she murmured to Harry.

Harry nodded, his eyes still on Chad's sleeping form. "Aye, it does. Seems our Auridon royals aren't as soft as we thought."

Gil, who had somehow slept through the entire exchange, chose that moment to roll over and mumble something about pancakes in his sleep.

Uma couldn't help but chuckle. "Get some more sleep, Harry. I have a feeling we're going to need it to keep up with these two."

As they settled back down, Uma's mind was racing. The dynamics between Chad and Audrey were far more complex than she'd initially thought. Their dedication, their trust in each other, and now this shared exhaustion and coping mechanism – it all painted a picture of two people who were far more than just school friends or political allies.

She glanced at Harry, seeing the same intrigue in his eyes. Well she had encouraged him so it was too late to take it back now.

Chapter Text

The sun was high in the sky when Harry stumbled upon Audrey in a secluded corner of the school's lush garden. The princess was perched on a stone bench, her fingers flying over her phone's keyboard. A small stack of official-looking documents sat beside her, and she was muttering under her breath, clearly frustrated.

"...can't believe Ben didn't show up. Again. How am I supposed to explain his absence to the council?" she grumbled, her brow furrowed in concentration.

Harry paused for a moment, taking in the sight. The blue dress she wore seemed to shimmer in the dappled sunlight, bringing out the warm tones in her hair. He had to admit, she looked stunning, even in her stressed state.

Without warning, Harry threw himself down on the bench beside her, causing Audrey to let out a startled squeak.

"Harry! You scared me," she exclaimed, her hand flying to her chest.

He grinned, unrepentant.

"Sorry, princess. Couldn't resist." His eyes darted to the documents beside her. "What's got ye so worked up on such a fine day?"

Audrey hesitated, her fingers hovering over her phone. She glanced at Harry, then at the documents, clearly debating how much to share. Finally, she sighed.

"If you must know," she began, her voice cautious but not unkind, "I'm working on housing plans. For when more VKs come over from the Isle."

Harry's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "More VKs? Ye mean, beyond just us?"

Audrey nodded, her expression softening.

"Yes. Ben's plan... well, it's not just about the three of you. It's about giving all the kids on the Isle a chance." She paused, then added quietly, "If I can make it work, that is."

Harry leaned back, processing this information. His eyes roamed over Audrey's face, noting the determination in her eyes, the slight furrow in her brow. "

Ye really care about this, don't ye?" he asked, his voice uncharacteristically serious.

Audrey met his gaze, her eyes steady.

"I do. It's the right thing to do. And..." she hesitated, then continued, "no one deserves to be caged."

A slow smile spread across Harry's face, not his usual smirk, but something more genuine.

"Well, well, princess. Ye continue to surprise me." He leaned in closer, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "Need any help? I might know a thing or two about what Isle kids need."

Audrey blinked, clearly caught off guard by the offer. But then a small, grateful smile tugged at her lips. "Actually... that would be really helpful. If you're serious?"

Harry's grin widened. "As serious as a shark attack, love. Now, let's see what ye've got so far."

As they bent their heads together over the documents, Harry couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions. Surprise at Audrey's dedication to helping Isle kids, admiration for her work ethic, and a growing warmth that he wasn't quite ready to name.

(Gil)

Gil might not have been the sharpest hook in the pirate's arsenal, but he had a knack for reading people. And in the short time he'd been at Auridon Prep, he'd quickly realized that Chad and Audrey were different from the others. They actually seemed to care about him, Uma, and Harry, beyond just the superficial niceties most Auradon kids offered.

So when he overheard Ben complaining to Chad about Audrey's insistence on his attendance at council meetings, Gil paid close attention. He watched as Chad's posture stiffened, his jaw clenching tighter with each of Ben's words.

"I just don't see why I need to go to these meetings when Audrey's already there," Ben said, his tone casual and slightly dismissive. "She's got it handled, right?"

Gil saw the exact moment Chad's patience snapped. The prince's eyes flashed with barely contained fury, and for a split second, Gil thought he might actually hit Ben. Instead, Chad slammed his locker shut with enough force to make nearby students jump.

Without a word, Chad turned on his heel and stormed off, a low snarl escaping his lips. Gil, driven by curiosity and a strange sense of concern, found himself following the angry prince.

As they turned a corner into a less crowded hallway, Chad suddenly stopped. His shoulders sagged, and when he turned to face Gil, the anger had drained from his face, replaced by a weary resignation.

"Gil?" Chad asked, his voice much softer than Gil had expected. "Did you... need something?"

Gil shuffled his feet, suddenly unsure. "I, uh... you seemed upset. I wanted to make sure you were okay."

Chad's expression softened further, a small, genuine smile tugging at his lips. "That's... that's really kind of you, Gil. Thank you."

Gil nodded, emboldened by Chad's response. "Ben doesn't get it, does he? How hard you and Audrey work?"

Chad's eyes widened slightly in surprise, then he let out a humorless chuckle. "No, he doesn't. But it's not his fault, not really. He's... he's got a lot on his plate."

Gil frowned, not quite understanding. "But so do you and Audrey. And you still make time for us."

Chad's smile turned a bit sad. "It's complicated, Gil. But thank you for noticing. It... it means a lot."

As they stood there in the quiet hallway, Gil felt like he was seeing a side of Chad that few others got to witness. The prince wasn't just the charming, sometimes arrogant boy he presented to the world. He was someone who cared deeply, who worked hard, and who carried burdens that others didn't see.

Gil made a decision then and there. He might not be able to help with the complicated politics or the mountains of paperwork, but he could be a friend. Someone who saw Chad - and Audrey - for who they really were.

"Hey," Gil said, his usual cheerful grin returning. "Want to grab some of those chocolate things from the cafeteria? Uma says I'm not supposed to eat them all myself."

Chad's laugh was genuine this time. "You mean éclairs? Sure, Gil. That sounds great."

As they headed towards the cafeteria, Gil felt a warm sense of accomplishment. He might not understand everything that was going on, but he knew one thing for sure - he and his friends had found some unexpected allies in Auridon.

Chapter Text

Uma had been observing Chad and Audrey closely since their arrival in Auridon. She'd noticed early on that the two royals were careful not to initiate physical contact with the VKs, likely out of respect for their boundaries. What surprised her, however, was their reaction when touch was initiated by the pirates.

There was always a moment of tension, a split second where their bodies would stiffen. But then, almost as quickly, they would relax into the touch. It was a curious reaction, one that made Uma wonder about their past experiences and upbringing.

Harry, ever the tactile one, had taken to draping himself over Audrey when she worked. He'd rest his chin on her shoulder or lean over her, his presence a constant in her personal space. Uma noticed that during these moments, Audrey seemed the most at ease around Harry, her usual flustered reactions giving way to a calm focus.

One afternoon, as they all lounged in Audrey's room, Chad casually mentioned, "If things keep going well, we should be able to start bringing over more VKs in about three weeks."

Gil perked up at this, but then his brow furrowed as he remembered something. "Oh, hey, Uma? Remember what I told you about Ben? How he said he doesn't need to go to meetings 'cause Audrey's there?"

Uma's eyes flashed with anger, a reaction that clearly surprised Audrey. The princess's eyes widened, her mouth falling open slightly in shock.

"You're... angry? On my behalf?" Audrey asked, her voice tinged with disbelief.

Uma scoffed, crossing her arms. "Of course I am. You're working your ass off for this kingdom, for us, and he's just... what? Coasting by on your efforts?"

Chad stared at Uma, his expression a mix of surprise and something that looked almost like gratitude. "I... didn't expect you to care," he admitted softly.

Uma's gaze softened slightly as she looked between Chad and Audrey. "Look, I might be from the Isle, but I know a raw deal when I see one. You two are killing yourselves trying to make this work, and your prince doesn't even show up? That's not right."

Harry nodded in agreement, his arm draped casually over Audrey's shoulders. "Aye, even on the Isle, we know the value of showin' up for yer crew."

Audrey leaned into Harry's touch, seemingly without realizing it. "It's... complicated," she said, echoing Chad's words from earlier. "Ben has a lot of responsibilities..."

"So do you," Gil chimed in, his usual cheerful demeanor tinged with a rare seriousness. "But you still make time for us."

A heavy silence fell over the room as the weight of these words sank in. Uma watched as something shifted in Audrey and Chad's expressions - a mix of gratitude, surprise, and perhaps a glimmer of hope.

"Thank you," Audrey said finally, her voice barely above a whisper. "For noticing. For caring."

Chad nodded in agreement, his eyes suspiciously bright. "It... it means more than you know."

As Uma looked around at this unlikely group - pirates and princes, villains and heroes - she realized that something fundamental had changed. Boundaries were blurring, alliances shifting. Whatever happened next, she knew that none of them would be the same after this.

The tension in the room was palpable as Ben breezed in, his crown slightly askew and a sheepish smile on his face. Uma watched, her fists clenching at her sides, as he approached Audrey.

"Hey, Audrey," Ben said, his tone light and carefree. "I was wondering if you could take over the planning for the Family Day celebration? I've got this thing with the royal gardeners that I can't reschedule."

Uma's eyes narrowed, watching Audrey's reaction carefully. To her surprise and growing anger, Audrey simply nodded, a resigned smile on her face.

"Of course, Ben. I'll take care of it," Audrey replied, her voice steady and professional.

Ben beamed, seemingly oblivious to the storm brewing in Uma's eyes. "Great! You're the best, Audrey. I'll catch up with you later!"

And with that, he was gone, leaving behind a wake of frustrated silence.

Uma turned to Audrey, expecting to see hurt or anger. Instead, she saw acceptance. This was normal for her.

That realization was the final straw for Uma. All her carefully laid plans for manipulation and slow influence crumbled in the face of her raw anger. She'd seen enough.

"That's it," Uma declared, her voice cutting through the silence. Everyone in the room turned to look at her, surprise evident on their faces.

"Uma?" Audrey questioned, her brow furrowed in confusion.

Uma stepped forward, her eyes blazing with determination. "I'm claiming you and Chad. You're part of my crew now."

Chad blinked rapidly, clearly caught off guard. "What?"

"You heard me," Uma continued, her voice firm. "I'm a pirate, and what do pirates do best? We steal treasure. And you two? You're the most valuable treasure in this whole damn kingdom, and Ben's too blind to see it."

Audrey's mouth fell open in shock. "Uma, I... we can't just..."

"Yes, you can," Uma interrupted. "If Ben wants you back, he can come and try to steal you from me. But I warn you, I don't give up my treasure easily."

Harry's face split into a wide grin, clearly delighted by this turn of events. "Aye, captain. Couldn't have said it better meself."

Gil nodded enthusiastically. "Does this mean we get to have sleepovers all the time now?"

Chad and Audrey exchanged bewildered glances, clearly struggling to process this sudden shift.

"Look," Uma said, her voice softening slightly. "I know this isn't how things are done here in Auridon. But on the Isle, when we see something valuable, we take it. We protect it. And you two? You're worth protecting."

Audrey's eyes glistened with unshed tears, while Chad's expression was a mix of gratitude and disbelief.

"So what do you say?" Uma asked, extending her hand. "Ready to join a crew that actually appreciates you?"

There was a moment of hesitation, a breath where the world seemed to hang in balance. Then, slowly, Audrey reached out and took Uma's hand.

"I... I think I'd like that," she said softly.

Chad nodded, placing his hand on top of theirs. "Me too."

As Harry and Gil joined in, creating a tangle of hands and newfound allegiance, Uma felt a surge of fierce protectiveness. She might have come to Auradon with plans of manipulation, but she'd found something far more valuable instead.

Let Ben try to take them back, she thought. He'd find that Uma of the Isle doesn't surrender her treasure without a fight.

As the initial excitement of Uma's declaration settled, Chad's brow furrowed, confusion evident in his eyes. He took a step back, his hand falling away from the group's.

"I don't... I don't understand," Chad said, his voice uncharacteristically hesitant. "Why would you care about us? About me?"

Audrey remained silent, but her expression mirrored Chad's bewilderment. There was a lost look in her eyes that spoke volumes about her own doubts.

Uma's triumphant smile faltered as she took in their reactions. She hadn't expected this level of disbelief, this deep-seated doubt in their own worth.

Harry's eyes narrowed, a frown replacing his usual smirk. "What do ye mean, why would we care? Have ye not been payin' attention these past weeks?"

Gil's usual cheerful demeanor dimmed, his lower lip jutting out in a concerned pout. "But... but we do care. You guys are our friends. You've been so nice to us."

Chad shook his head, his voice taking on a defeated tone that made Harry's frown deepen. "The only person who's ever really seen us, seen the work we do, is my grandfather. And even then..." He trailed off, unable to finish the thought.

Uma's eyes widened as realization dawned. This wasn't just about Ben's neglect or the pressures of royal life. This was about two people who had been overlooked and undervalued for so long that they couldn't fathom someone genuinely caring about them.

"Listen to me," Uma said, her voice firm but gentle. She stepped closer to Chad and Audrey, making sure to meet their eyes. "We may have come from the Isle, but we know value when we see it. You two? You're diamonds in a sea of rhinestones."

Harry nodded emphatically. "Aye, ye've shown us more kindness and understanding than anyone else in this glittery kingdom. That means somethin' to us."

"You help me understand my homework," Gil added earnestly. "And you always make sure there are extra desserts at dinner. That's really nice."

Audrey's eyes glistened with unshed tears, while Chad's posture remained tense, as if waiting for the other shoe to drop.

Uma reached out, gently placing a hand on each of their shoulders. "I know it's hard to believe. Trust me, on the Isle, genuine care is rare. But that's what makes it so precious when you find it. And we've found it with you two."

"We're not asking you to trust us completely right away," Uma continued. "But give us a chance to prove ourselves. Let us show you what it's like to have a crew that has your back, no matter what."

There was a moment of heavy silence as Chad and Audrey processed Uma's words. Then, slowly, Chad's shoulders relaxed under Uma's touch.

"I... I think I'd like that," he said softly, a small, hesitant smile tugging at his lips.

Audrey nodded, finally finding her voice. "Me too. It's just... it might take some getting used to."

Uma's face split into a wide grin. "That's all we ask. Now, how about we start by helping you plan this Family Day thing? I bet between all of us, we can come up with something that'll knock their royal socks off."

As the group huddled together, beginning to brainstorm ideas, there was a palpable shift in the room's energy. It wasn't just about planning an event anymore. It was about building trust, forging bonds, and creating a new kind of family - one that saw and appreciated each other for who they truly were.

Chapter Text

Over the next few days, a noticeable pattern emerged. Audrey found herself gravitating towards Harry, seeking out his presence almost unconsciously. Whether it was leaning into him during movie nights or sitting next to him during meals, the closeness between them was undeniable.

Uma observed this development with a pleased smile, noting how naturally Harry had taken to watching over Audrey. He was always aware of her presence, quick to offer support or a comforting touch when needed.

One afternoon, as they all lounged in Audrey's room, Gil's brow furrowed in thought. "Hey, I've been wondering," he began, his voice carrying its usual innocent curiosity, "why don't you guys ever touch us first? Like, you never initiate hugs or anything."

Chad and Audrey exchanged surprised glances, as if the thought had never occurred to them.

"Well," Chad started, his voice hesitant, "none of you have given us permission to touch you."

Uma's eyebrows shot up. "Hold on," she interjected, "you two never gave us permission either, but we touch you all the time."

Audrey and Chad shared another look, confusion evident on their faces. "But... that's different," Audrey said softly, not quite meeting Uma's eyes.

Harry leaned forward, his usual playful demeanor replaced by genuine concern. "Is it, though?" he asked gently. "Are ye even okay with bein' touched? We've never actually asked, have we?"

There was a moment of silence as Audrey and Chad processed the question. Finally, Chad spoke up, his voice quiet but steady. "It's fine. We're pretty sure none of you want to hurt us."

Audrey nodded in agreement. "After all," she added, a small, knowing smile on her face, "I know Uma originally planned to use us to help get the other VKs off the Isle." She paused, meeting Uma's surprised gaze. "It was a good plan, by the way. But I would have helped either way."

Uma's jaw dropped slightly, caught off guard by Audrey's candor. "You... you knew?"

Audrey's smile grew a bit sad. "Of course. It's what I would have done in your position. It's what I've done before, for Ben."

The room fell silent as the weight of Audrey's words sank in. Harry's arm tightened around Audrey's shoulders, while Gil looked between everyone with wide, concerned eyes.

"Okay," Uma said finally, her voice firm. "New crew rule. We ask before we touch, and you two," she pointed at Audrey and Chad, "start initiating contact if you want to. We're a crew now, remember? That means equal footing."

Chad nodded slowly, a small smile forming on his lips. "I... I think I'd like that."

"Me too," Audrey added softly, leaning further into Harry's side.

Harry pressed a gentle kiss to the top of Audrey's head. "Well then, princess, consider this me askin' permission to keep holdin' ye like this."

Audrey's smile widened as she nodded. "Permission granted."

As the conversation shifted to lighter topics, there was a new undercurrent of understanding in the room. Boundaries were being redrawn, trust was deepening, and slowly but surely, wounds from the past were beginning to heal.

Uma watched her newly expanded crew with a sense of pride and protectiveness. They might have come from different worlds, but they were building something new together - something that just might be stronger than anything they'd known before.

Chapter Text

Audrey's frustration grew with each passing day. For nearly a week, she had been trying to corner Ben for a conversation, but he seemed to have developed an uncanny ability to disappear whenever she approached. It’d be impressive if she didn’t want to scream at him.

After yet another council meeting where Ben had practically sprinted out of the room, Audrey found herself staring at his retreating back, her carefully prepared speech dying on her lips. She sighed, her shoulders slumping as she gathered her notes.

"No luck?" Chad's voice came from behind her, tinged with sympathy.

Audrey shook her head, turning to face her partner.

"It's like he's become a master of evasion overnight. I've left messages, sent texts, even tried to schedule an official meeting through his secretary." She ran a hand through her hair, a rare show of frustration. "Nothing."

Chad squeezed her shoulder gently.

"Maybe we should try a more direct approach. I could always tackle him on the Tourney field," he suggested with a wry smile.

Despite her mood, Audrey couldn't help but chuckle. "As tempting as that sounds, I don't think assaulting the King would help our cause."

As they walked back to the dorms, Audrey's phone buzzed. Her heart leapt, hoping it might be Ben, but it was just another message from his secretary: "His Majesty regrets that he is unable to meet at this time due to pressing matters of state."

Audrey's grip on her phone tightened.

"Pressing matters of state," she muttered. "Since when did Ben care about that."

When they reached Audrey's room, they found Uma, Harry, and Gil already there, sprawled across the furniture in various states of relaxation. One look at Audrey's face told them all they needed to know.

"Still no luck with King Beastie Jr.?" Uma asked, sitting up straighter.

Audrey shook her head, sinking onto the bed next to Harry. Without thinking, she leaned into his side, drawing comfort from his presence.

"I don't understand why he’s avoiding me. Unless it’s something I did or..." She trailed off, her voice heavy with hurt and confusion.

Harry's arm wrapped around her shoulders, pulling her closer.

"Ye deserve better than this, princess," he murmured, his accent thicker with emotion.

Gil nodded enthusiastically from his spot on the floor. "Yeah! You're amazing, Audrey. Ben should be happy to talk to you."

Audrey smiled weakly at their support, but the conflict in her heart was clear on her face.

"I just... I need to do this right. I respect Ben too much to..." She glanced around at the group, her cheeks flushing slightly. "To explore whatever this is between us without ending things with him properly first."

Uma leaned forward, her eyes serious. "We understand, Audrey. And we respect you for it. But you can't keep putting your life on hold because he won't give you the time of day."

Chad, who had been quiet until now, spoke up. "She's right. And with Family Day coming up..."

Audrey groaned, burying her face in her hands.

"Don't remind me. I'll have to play the perfect girlfriend in front of everyone, all while knowing..." She couldn't finish the sentence, the weight of her emotions choking her words.

The room fell silent for a moment, each of them processing the situation. Finally, Uma stood up, her posture determined.

"Alright, here's what we're going to do," she declared. "We're going to keep trying to get Ben to talk. But we're also going to make sure you're taken care of, Audrey. You're part of our crew now, remember?"

Harry nodded, tightening his hold on Audrey. "Aye, and we take care of our own."

As the group began to discuss strategies and offer words of encouragement, Audrey felt a warmth spread through her chest. The situation with Ben was far from resolved, but whatever came next, she knew she wouldn't have to face it alone.

Chapter Text

The day before Family Day, Audrey's room was a flurry of activity. Uma stood behind Audrey, carefully adjusting the pink satin bow on the back of her dress. The princess stood rigidly in front of the mirror, her usual poise replaced by obvious tension.

"You need to breathe, princess," Uma said, meeting Audrey's eyes in the reflection. "Your dress is perfect, but if you keep this up, you'll snap in half before you even see Ben."

Audrey tried to relax her shoulders, but the effect was minimal. "I'm sorry, I just... I can't stop thinking about tomorrow. Playing the perfect couple when we can't even have a real conversation..."

On the other side of the room, Chad was helping Gil with his suit, showing him how to properly knot his tie. "Remember, Gil, if anyone gives you trouble tomorrow, just find one of us. We've got your back."

Gil nodded, his brow furrowed in concentration as he mimicked Chad's movements with the tie. "Thanks, Chad. I'm not worried though. I'll have you guys there, right?"

Chad smiled, patting Gil's shoulder. "Always."

Meanwhile, Harry paced near the window, his hook tapping rhythmically against his thigh. His eyes kept darting to Audrey, a mixture of concern and barely concealed anger in his gaze.

Uma noticed Harry's agitation and called out, "Hey, sailor, why don't you make yourself useful and grab Audrey's shoes from the closet?"

Harry grunted in acknowledgment but made no move to comply. Instead, he muttered under his breath, "I've got a better idea. How about I go find our dear King and remind him of his royal duties?"

Audrey's head snapped up, alarm clear in her eyes. "Harry, no. Please, I know you're upset, but confronting Ben won't solve anything."

Harry's jaw clenched, but he nodded stiffly. "Aye, but it might make me feel better," he grumbled.

Chad, finished with Gil's tie, approached Harry. "Look, man, I get it. We're all frustrated. But going after Ben will only make things worse for Audrey."

Uma stepped away from Audrey, her dress now perfectly arranged, and moved to stand in front of Harry.

"Hey," she said softly, placing a hand on his arm. "We protect our own, remember? Right now, that means being here for Audrey, not starting a fight with Ben."

Harry's posture slowly relaxed under Uma's touch. He looked at Audrey, his expression softening. "I'm sorry, princess. I just can't stand seein' ye hurtin' like this."

Audrey managed a small smile, crossing the room to stand before Harry. "I know, and I appreciate that more than I can say. But tomorrow, I need you to be there, supporting me. Can you do that?"

Harry nodded, gently taking Audrey's hand and pressing a kiss to her knuckles. "For you, anythin'."

The tender moment was interrupted by Gil's excited voice.

"Hey, guys! I did it!" He proudly displayed his perfectly knotted tie, beaming at Chad.

The tension in the room broke as everyone turned to congratulate Gil. Audrey felt some of her anxiety melt away as she looked around at her friends – her crew. Tomorrow would be challenging, but with them by her side, she felt ready to face whatever came her way.

As the group returned to their preparations, there was a new determination in the air. Family Day might be a test, but it was one they would face together.

Chapter Text

Audrey's smile was picture-perfect as she greeted the guests at Family Day, her arm linked with Ben's. To anyone watching, they appeared the ideal royal couple. But beneath her polished exterior, Audrey's hands trembled slightly, and she was acutely aware of the tension radiating from Ben.

Every time his gaze flickered in her direction, she saw a spark in his eyes—something between frustration and accusation that made her stomach churn. She'd barely seen him for more than fleeting moments over the past few days, and now, forced into close proximity, the strain between them was palpable.

As they moved between groups of dignitaries and family members, Audrey tried repeatedly to steer their conversations towards more private matters.

"Ben," she whispered during a lull, "we really need to talk about—"

"Not now, Audrey," Ben cut her off, his smile never wavering as he waved to a passing councillor. "This isn't the time or place."

Audrey felt her frustration mounting. "Then when is? You've been avoiding me for days. We can't keep—"

"I said not now," Ben hissed, his grip on her arm tightening momentarily before he released her to shake hands with a visiting duke.

The afternoon wore on, and Audrey felt herself growing increasingly desperate. She could feel the concerned gazes of Uma, Harry, Chad, and Gil from across the lawn, but she couldn't bring herself to look their way, afraid of what Ben might see in her expression.

Finally, as Ben turned to leave yet another conversation, Audrey reached out impulsively, grabbing his arm. "Ben, please, we need to talk about us, about our relationship—"

Ben whirled around, his eyes flashing with an anger she'd never seen before. In that moment, it was as if all his bottled-up emotions exploded at once.

"Our relationship?" he spat, his voice rising. "You want to talk about our relationship now? After you've been parading around with Hook and his crew?"

Audrey recoiled as if slapped, suddenly aware of the hush falling over the nearby guests. "What? Ben, I—"

"Don't deny it, Audrey," Ben continued, his voice carrying across the now-silent lawn. "I've seen you with them. Always together, always touching. Did you think I wouldn't notice? Did you think you could just cheat on me and I'd turn a blind eye?"

The accusation hit Audrey like a physical blow. She stared at Ben, mouth agape, as whispers erupted around them. Her vision began to blur, and suddenly she couldn't seem to draw in enough air.

"I... I didn't..." she gasped, her chest tightening painfully. The faces around her began to swim, and she stumbled back a step, her legs unsteady.

Just as her knees began to buckle, she felt strong arms catch her from behind. Harry's familiar scent enveloped her as he steadied her, his voice a low, comforting rumble in her ear.

"Easy there, princess. I've got ye."

Uma appeared at her side, glaring daggers at Ben. "What the hell is wrong with you?" she snarled at the young king.

Chad and Gil quickly moved to flank Audrey protectively, creating a barrier between her and the shocked onlookers.

As the world spun around her, Audrey clung to Harry's arms, struggling to breathe. The last thing she saw before her vision darkened was Ben's face, a mixture of anger and regret dawning in his eyes as he realized the magnitude of what he'd just done.

Then everything went black.

Chapter Text

As Audrey collapsed, the shocked silence that had fallen over the crowd quickly erupted into chaos.

Uma, her eyes blazing with fury, rounded on Ben.

"You cowardly, selfish little boy!" she snarled, her voice cutting through the murmurs of the crowd. "Do you have any idea what you've done? Audrey's been trying to talk to you for weeks, to end things properly, but you kept avoiding her like a scared child!"

Ben's eyes widened, a flicker of guilt crossing his face before he rallied.

"That doesn't change what I saw," he argued, gesturing towards Harry, who was cradling Audrey's unconscious form. "Look at them! Isn't that proof enough?"

Uma let out a harsh laugh. "Proof? The only thing that proves is that Harry cares enough to catch her when she falls – something you clearly don't!"

Chad stood nearby, visibly torn. His gaze flicked between Audrey's pale face and Ben's defiant stance. For a moment, it seemed he might step in, but then he caught Uma's eye and nodded, stepping back to let her handle the confrontation.

Gil, usually the picture of cheerful optimism, wore an uncharacteristically serious expression. He positioned himself between Harry and the gawking crowd, his stance protective and unyielding.

Harry barely registered the argument raging behind him. His entire world had narrowed to Audrey's limp form in his arms. He could feel his hands shaking with suppressed rage, but he forced himself to be gentle as he gathered her close.

"It's alright, princess," he murmured, though he knew she couldn't hear him. "I've got ye."

With careful movements, Harry lifted Audrey into his arms. As he turned to leave, he found his path blocked by Ben.

"Where do you think you're taking her?" Ben demanded, reaching out as if to stop him.

Harry's eyes met Ben's, and the fury in them was enough to make the young king take a step back.

"I'm takin' her somewhere safe," Harry said, his voice low and dangerous. "Away from you."

He paused, then added with deadly calm, "And if ye ever come near her again, if ye so much as look at her wrong, I promise ye, Ben – king or not – I won't let it go. Ye won't like what happens next."

The threat hung in the air, crystal clear despite its lack of specifics. Ben swallowed hard, seemingly at a loss for words.

With that, Harry strode away, Gil and Chad flanking him protectively. Uma lingered for a moment, fixing Ben with a final, withering glare.

"Congratulations, Your Majesty," she said, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "You just lost the best thing that ever happened to you – and in front of everyone, no less."

As Uma turned to follow her crew, leaving a stunned Ben and a whispering crowd behind, the full weight of what had just transpired began to settle over the Family Day gathering. It was clear to everyone present that things in Auradon were about to change dramatically.

Chapter Text

Once they reached Audrey's room, Harry gently laid her on the bed, his touch impossibly tender despite the rage simmering beneath his skin. As soon as Audrey was settled, that rage bubbled to the surface. He whirled around, his hand lashing out towards an ornate vase on her dresser.

At the last second, his fist stopped, hovering mere inches from the delicate porcelain. His chest heaved with ragged breaths as he stared at the vase, a gift from Audrey's brother.

"You can't even break things properly, can you?" Uma's voice came from behind him, tinged with a mix of understanding and amusement.

Harry turned to face her, his eyes wild. "I can't... I can't stay here right now, Uma. If I do, I might..."

Uma nodded, understanding the unspoken threat.

"Go," she said, waving him off. "Blow off some steam before you do something we'll all regret."

Chad, who had been hovering near the door, stepped forward.

"I'll go with him," he offered. "Make sure he doesn't get into too much trouble."

Uma raised an eyebrow but nodded her assent. As Harry stormed out of the room, Chad following close behind, she called out, "Chad! Try sparring instead of hunting down Ben, yeah? Less likely to end in treason charges."

Chad gave a grim nod before disappearing after Harry.

Uma turned to Gil, who was standing uncertainly by Audrey's bedside.

"Go with them," she ordered. "Keep an eye on our boys."

"But what about-" Gil started, glancing at Audrey.

"I've got her," Uma assured him. "Now go, before Harry decides sparring isn't enough and goes after Ben anyway."

As Gil hurried out, Uma found herself alone with the unconscious princess. For a moment, she simply stood there, taking in the sight of Audrey's pale face, her brow furrowed even in unconsciousness. With a sigh, Uma moved to the bed, gently taking Audrey's hand in her own. She raised it to her face, pressing her forehead against the princess's knuckles in a gesture that was part comfort, part silent promise.

"Oh, princess," she murmured, her voice uncharacteristically soft. "What are we going to do with you?" Her thumb traced gentle circles on Audrey's palm as she added, "Don't worry. We've got you now. No one's going to hurt you like that again. Not while I'm around."

As Uma settled in to keep vigil over Audrey, her mind drifted to the rest of her crew. She could only hope that Chad's suggestion of sparring would be enough to cool Harry's temper, and that sending the two angriest members of her crew off together wouldn't backfire spectacularly.

But those were concerns for later. Right now, her focus was solely on the girl before her, the princess who had somehow become an integral part of their misfit family. Uma squeezed Audrey's hand gently, prepared to wait as long as it took for her to wake up.

(Audrey)

The room was quiet save for the soft sound of breathing when Audrey's eyelids finally fluttered. Uma, who had been dozing lightly in a chair beside the bed, immediately straightened, her attention razor-sharp.

Audrey stirred, her brow furrowing as consciousness slowly returned. Her eyes opened, unfocused at first, then gradually sharpening as they landed on Uma. For a moment, confusion reigned in her expression. Then, as if a switch had been flipped, memory flooded back.

Audrey bolted upright, the words tumbling out before she was fully aware of speaking. "I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to—"

"Stop right there," Uma cut her off, her voice firm but not unkind. She leaned forward, taking Audrey's hands in her own. "You have absolutely nothing to apologize for, you hear me?"

Audrey blinked, her mouth opening and closing as she struggled to process Uma's words. "But... but Ben, he said... and everyone saw..."

Uma's eyes flashed with anger, though not directed at Audrey. "Ben is an idiot who couldn't see what was right in front of him. And what happened out there? That's on him, not you."

"But if I had just—"

"No," Uma said, her voice leaving no room for argument. She squeezed Audrey's hands gently. "Listen to me, princess. You did nothing wrong. You tried to do things the right way, to talk to him properly. He's the one who avoided you. He's the one who chose to make a scene instead of having a private conversation."

Audrey's lower lip trembled, her eyes filling with tears. "I just... I never wanted to hurt him. I never meant for any of this to happen."

Uma's expression softened. She reached out, gently brushing a strand of hair from Audrey's face. "I know, princess. And that's what makes you so much better than him. You cared about doing the right thing, even when it was hard."

A tear slipped down Audrey's cheek. "What am I going to do now? Everyone thinks I'm... they all saw..."

"Hey," Uma said, her voice gentle but firm. She cupped Audrey's face in her hands, making sure the princess met her gaze. "We'll figure it out together, okay? You're not alone in this. You've got me, Harry, Gil, Chad... we're all here for you."

Audrey nodded weakly, more tears falling. Uma pulled her into a tight hug, letting the princess bury her face in her shoulder.

"It's okay," Uma murmured, rubbing soothing circles on Audrey's back. "Let it out. I've got you."

As Audrey's quiet sobs filled the room, Uma held her close, a mix of protective fury and tender concern swirling in her chest. She made a silent vow to herself and to Audrey: they would get through this, no matter what it took. And Ben? Well, he'd learn soon enough what it meant to cross Uma's crew.

(Chad)

The training grounds echoed with the sound of clashing swords and heavy breathing. Chad and Harry circled each other, their movements precise and calculated. To an outsider, it might have looked like any other sparring match, but the tension in the air was palpable.

Chad's face was a mask of concentration, his usual easy-going smile nowhere to be seen. His movements were sharp, precise, and carried an edge that spoke of barely contained fury. Each strike of his sword against Harry's seemed to reverberate with the anger he was trying so hard to suppress.

Harry, for his part, found himself genuinely taken aback. He'd always seen Chad as the charming, somewhat mild mannered prince. But the person facing him now was a skilled swordsman with a fire in his eyes that matched Harry's own.

"Ye've been holdin' out on us, pretty boy," Harry grunted as he parried a particularly vicious strike.

Chad didn't respond, his jaw clenched tight as he pressed forward with another series of attacks.

Off to the side, Gil watched the intense exchange with wide eyes. He shifted from foot to foot, clearly conflicted.

"Um, guys?" he called out tentatively. "Should I have brought snacks? This looks like it might take a while..."

Neither Chad nor Harry seemed to hear him, too engrossed in their increasingly heated duel.

As the fight wore on, Chad's carefully maintained composure began to crack. His strikes became harder, less controlled. The polished prince facade was slipping, revealing the raw anger underneath.

Finally, in a move that caught Chad off guard, Harry managed to disarm him and pin him to the ground. For a moment, they both froze, chests heaving with exertion.

Then, like a dam breaking, Chad's control shattered completely. He let out a furious yell, struggling against Harry's hold.

"How could he do that to her?!" Chad shouted, his voice raw with emotion. "After everything she's done for him, everything she's sacrificed! He just... he just threw her to the wolves like she meant nothing!"

Harry, surprised by the outburst, loosened his grip slightly.

"Aye, he did," he agreed, his own anger simmering just below the surface.

Chad's eyes were bright with unshed tears of frustration and rage. "She deserved better. She always deserved better than him."

Harry nodded, slowly releasing Chad and offering him a hand up. "That she did, mate. That she did."

As Chad accepted the help, his anger seemed to deflate, leaving him looking tired and drained. Gil approached cautiously, placing a comforting hand on Chad's shoulder.

"You okay?" Gil asked, his voice uncharacteristically serious.

Chad took a deep breath, running a hand through his sweat-dampened hair. "Yeah... yeah, I think I needed that."

Harry clapped him on the back. "Ye've got quite the temper hidden under all that princeliness, don't ye?"

A ghost of Chad's usual smile flickered across his face. "Guess I do."

As the three of them headed back towards the school, the air between them felt clearer, as if the sparring match had burned away some of the rage and tension. They were united now, not just in their concern for Audrey, but in their determination to stand by her, no matter what came next.

The door to Audrey's room burst open with little warning, causing her to jump slightly. Uma, who had been sitting beside her on the bed, merely raised an eyebrow at the intrusion.

Harry strode in, looking somewhat disheveled from the sparring session. Without a word, he made a beeline for the bed and promptly threw himself onto it, landing beside Audrey with a dramatic groan.

Audrey blinked, startled by the sudden invasion of her personal space. "Harry, what—"

Before she could finish her question, Harry shifted, laying his head in her lap and looking up at her with a mix of concern and mischief in his eyes.

"So, princess," he drawled, "d'ye want me to murder Ben for ye? I promise I'll make it look like an accident."

Audrey sighed, a small, weary smile tugging at her lips despite herself. "No, Harry. No murdering the king, accidental or otherwise."

Uma snorted, clearly amused by Harry's antics. "Always the diplomat, aren't you, princess?"

Chad and Gil entered the room more sedately, making their way to the couch and sinking into it. Chad looked exhausted but calmer than before, while Gil seemed to be eyeing the room for potential snack locations.

"You sure?" Harry persisted, reaching up to twirl a strand of Audrey's hair around his finger. "Not even a little maiming? I could just rough him up a bit, teach him some manners."

"Harry," Audrey admonished, but there was no real heat in her voice. Almost unconsciously, her hand moved to run through his hair, the action soothing for both of them.

Uma watched the interaction with a knowing smirk.

"Well, at least someone's feeling better," she commented, her gaze flicking between Harry and Audrey.

Chad leaned forward from his spot on the couch.

"How are you really doing, Audrey?" he asked, his voice soft with concern.

Audrey's smile faltered slightly.

"I'm... I don't know," she admitted. "Everything's such a mess."

"Hey," Gil piped up, his face serious but kind. "Messes can be cleaned up. And you've got us to help now."

Harry nodded emphatically from his position in Audrey's lap. "Aye, we've got yer back, princess. Anyone gives ye trouble, they'll have to go through us first."

Uma reached out, squeezing Audrey's hand. "What these idiots are trying to say is that you're not alone in this. We're here for you, whatever you need."

Audrey looked around at her friends—her crew—feeling a warmth spread through her chest despite the chaos of the day. "Thank you," she said softly, her voice thick with emotion. "All of you."

As the group settled into a comfortable silence, each offering support in their own way, Audrey realized that while her world had been turned upside down, she had found something invaluable in the process: a family who truly had her back, no matter what.

The knock on Audrey's door was hesitant, almost timid. The crew inside exchanged wary glances before Uma nodded to Chad, who was closest to the door.

Chad opened it to reveal a sheepish-looking Ben, his crown slightly askew as if he'd been running his hands through his hair nervously.

"Chad," Ben started, relief evident in his voice. "I'm glad you're here. I need to speak with Audrey. To apologize—"

"No," Chad cut him off, his voice cold and firm. The single word hung in the air between them, heavy with finality.

Ben blinked, taken aback by the harshness in Chad's tone. "What? Chad, come on, I just want to—"

"I said no, Ben," Chad repeated, stepping forward and forcing Ben to take a step back into the hallway. "You don't get to waltz in here and think an apology will fix what you've done."

Ben's surprise quickly morphed into frustration. "Chad, you're my friend. You know I never meant—"

"Friend?" Chad let out a bitter laugh. "Friends don't publicly humiliate and accuse each other. Friends don't avoid each other for weeks and then lash out when confronted."

"I made a mistake," Ben pleaded. "I was hurt and confused—"

"And Audrey isn't?" Chad's voice rose slightly. "You didn't just hurt her, Ben. You potentially ruined her reputation in front of the entire kingdom."

Ben's face fell. "I... I know. That's why I need to apologize, to make things right—"

"It's too late for that," Chad said, his voice dropping to a dangerous whisper. "You want to know something, Ben? I've always supported you. Always. Even when I disagreed with your decisions, I stood by you because I believed in you."

Ben's eyes widened at the use of past tense. "Chad—"

"Not anymore," Chad continued, his voice steady and resolute. "As of this moment, I'm withdrawing my support. And when I take the throne, you can be damn sure Charmington won't be backing your policies either."

The color drained from Ben's face as the implications of Chad's words sank in. "You can't be serious. Chad, think about what you're saying—"

"Oh, I have," Chad assured him. "I've thought about it more clearly than I have in years. You're not the king I thought you were, Ben. And you're certainly not the friend I believed in."

With that, Chad stepped back into the room, his hand on the door. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I have more important matters to attend to. Like being there for the people who truly deserve my loyalty."

The door shut with a finality that echoed through the hallway, leaving a stunned Ben staring at the polished wood.

Inside the room, Chad turned to face his friends, his shoulders sagging slightly as the adrenaline wore off. Audrey was looking at him with wide, tearful eyes.

"Chad," she whispered, "you didn't have to—"

"Yes, I did," Chad said firmly, moving to sit beside her. "It's about time I stood up for what's right. And right now, that's you. That's us."

Uma nodded approvingly. "Well said, Charming. Didn't know you had it in you."

Harry grinned from his spot next to Audrey. "Aye, ye might make a decent pirate yet."

As the tension in the room dissipated into relieved laughter, Chad felt a weight lift from his shoulders. He had made his choice, drawn his line in the sand. And looking around at his newfound family, he knew without a doubt that he had made the right decision.

Chapter Text

Ben's persistent knocking and muffled pleas filtered through the door, each word landing like a blow on Audrey's already fragile composure. She curled closer to Harry, conflicting emotions warring within her.

"Audrey, please," Ben's voice came again, tinged with desperation. "Just let me explain. I didn't mean—"

Audrey flinched, torn between her ingrained desire to hear Ben out and her newfound resolve to protect herself. Harry's arm tightened around her protectively, his jaw clenched in barely contained anger.

Uma paced near the door, her movements becoming increasingly agitated with each of Ben's attempts. "If he doesn't shut up in the next five seconds, I swear I'm going to—"

Her threat was cut short by a sharp, authoritative sound: the unmistakable tap of a cane against the door. A gruff voice, aged but powerful, rang out in the hallway.

"That's quite enough, Your Majesty," Councilman Vince's voice carried clearly through the door. "I suggest you remove yourself from this vicinity before I'm forced to take matters into my own hands."

Ben's stammering response was cut off by Vince's stern rebuke. "Now, boy. Unless you'd like me to call an emergency council meeting to discuss your recent... indiscretions."

The threat in Vince's voice was clear, and the sound of retreating footsteps signaled Ben's departure.

Before anyone in the room could react, Audrey was on her feet, moving swiftly towards the door. Harry made a noise of protest, reaching for her, but she was already turning the handle.

"Councilman Vince," Audrey said as she opened the door, her voice a mixture of relief and residual anxiety.

The elderly councilman stood in the hallway, leaning on his ornate cane. His weathered face softened as he took in Audrey's appearance.

"My dear girl," he said, his tone gentler now. "I came as soon as I heard. Are you alright?"

Audrey's carefully constructed composure wavered.

"I... I'm not sure," she admitted.

Vince nodded understandingly. "May I come in? I believe we have much to discuss."

Audrey stepped aside, allowing the councilman to enter. As he did, his sharp eyes took in the room's occupants: Uma, still bristling with protective anger; Harry, who had moved to stand close behind Audrey; Chad, looking both defiant and worried; and Gil, who offered an awkward wave.

"Well," Vince said, a hint of amusement in his voice despite the serious situation. "It seems you've gathered quite the support system, Princess Audrey."

Audrey nodded, unconsciously leaning back slightly into Harry's presence.

"They've been... incredible," she said softly.

Vince's eyes twinkled knowingly.

"Good. You'll need them in the days to come." He turned to address the entire room. "Now then, shall we discuss how to handle this... royal mess?"

As they all moved to sit down, Audrey felt a strange mix of apprehension and hope. With Councilman Vince here and her friends by her side, perhaps they could navigate this crisis after all.

Harry's hand found hers, giving it a reassuring squeeze. Audrey took a deep breath, ready to face whatever came next. She wasn't alone anymore, and that made all the difference.

Councilman Vince settled into a chair across from Audrey at the coffee table, his expression a mixture of paternal concern and barely concealed anger. Without preamble, he reached into his briefcase and pulled out two documents, laying them on the table with a decisive thud.

"My dear," he began, his voice gruff but kind, "I believe these might interest you."

Audrey leaned forward, her eyes widening as she scanned the papers. "These are..."

"An annulment of your betrothal contract to Ben," Vince confirmed, tapping the first document, "and a new betrothal contract... with Prince Chad."

The room fell silent as the implications sank in. Chad stepped forward, his face a mix of surprise and determination.

Audrey's hands trembled slightly as she picked up the documents, her eyes darting over the legal jargon. After a moment, she passed them to Chad. "What do you think?" she asked softly.

Chad read through the contracts carefully, his brow furrowed in concentration. Finally, he looked up, meeting Audrey's gaze. "It's legitimate. And... I'm willing if you are."

Audrey took a deep breath, glancing around at her friends. Uma nodded encouragingly, while Harry's grip on her shoulder tightened supportively. With a sense of finality, Audrey picked up the pen Vince offered.

"Where do I sign?" she asked, her voice steady.

As Audrey's signature graced both documents, a palpable sense of relief seemed to wash over the room. Vince's face broke into a grin – an expression so unexpected that Audrey blinked in surprise.

"Excellent," the councilman said, clearly pleased. He reached back into his briefcase and pulled out a folder, sliding it across the table to Audrey. "Now, my dear, I believe you'll find this most interesting."

Curious, Audrey opened the folder. Her eyes widened as she scanned the contents. "This is... but how...?"

"What is it?" Uma asked, leaning forward.

Audrey looked up, her face a mixture of shock and growing excitement. "It's... documents appointing Chad and me as the new leaders of the VK program."

"What?" Chad exclaimed, moving to read over Audrey's shoulder.

Vince leaned back, looking extremely satisfied. "Given recent events, the council has deemed Prince Ben... unfit to continue leading this sensitive initiative. We believe you two are much better suited to the task."

"But... why us?" Audrey asked, still processing the sudden turn of events.

"My dear," Vince said, his eyes twinkling, "you've shown remarkable poise and diplomacy in the face of adversity. And Prince Chad's recent actions have demonstrated his loyalty and sound judgment. Plus," he added with a wink, "I hear you've already formed quite the diverse team."

Audrey glanced around at her friends – Uma, Harry, and Gil – then back at Chad, who nodded encouragingly.

"Well," Audrey said, a small smile forming on her lips, "I suppose we have."

"Excellent," Vince said, standing up. "I'll leave you all to discuss the details. The council looks forward to your first report on the program's progress."

As Vince made his way to the door, he paused, turning back with a serious expression. "And Audrey? Chad? Do try to do a better job than your predecessor. The kingdom is counting on you."

With that, he was gone, leaving behind a room buzzing with excitement and nervous energy.

Audrey looked at Chad, then at her VK friends, a mix of determination and hope in her eyes. "Well," she said, "it looks like we have work to do."

Uma grinned, clapping her hands together. "Now this is more like it. Let's show Auradon how it's done."

As the group huddled around the coffee table, eagerly discussing plans and ideas, Audrey felt a weight lift from her shoulders. What had started as one of the worst days of her life had somehow transformed into an opportunity – a chance to make real change, surrounded by people she trusted.

For the first time in a long while, Audrey felt truly hopeful about the future.

Chapter Text

Uma leaned against the wall, arms crossed, watching with growing admiration as Audrey and Chad sprang into action. The two royals moved with a synchronicity that spoke of years of working together, their voices overlapping as they fired off ideas and made calls.

"Yes, Councilman Frederick," Audrey was saying into her phone, her voice firm but polite. "We'll need those supply ships redirected to the Isle immediately. Fresh produce, clean water, basic medical supplies..."

Meanwhile, Chad was pacing near the window, his own phone pressed to his ear. "Listen, we need accommodations for at least fifty more VKs by the end of the month. Can your kingdom spare any vacant properties? Excellent, send over the details as soon as possible."

Uma felt a smirk tugging at her lips. She caught Harry's eye, and he returned her look with a knowing grin of his own. They both turned to Gil, who was watching Audrey and Chad with an expression of awe, his eyes darting back and forth between them as if watching a particularly exciting tennis match.

"Well, well," Uma murmured, her voice low enough that only Harry and Gil could hear. "Looks like throwing our lot in with these royals might just be the best decision we've ever made."

Harry chuckled softly. "Aye, who'd have thought our princess and her charming prince had such fire in them?"

Gil nodded enthusiastically. "They're amazing! Look at how fast they're making things happen!"

Uma's smirk softened into a genuine smile. "That they are, Gil. That they are."

As they watched, Audrey finished her call and immediately turned to Chad. "Okay, we've got supplies heading to the Isle. What's the status on housing?"

Chad lowered his phone, grinning. "Charmington's offering three vacant manors, and Arendelle's promised to outfit them with proper heating systems."

Audrey nodded, already reaching for a notebook. "Perfect. Now, we need to start identifying potential candidates for the next wave of VKs. Uma?" She looked up, meeting Uma's gaze. "Think you can help us compile a list?"

Uma straightened, surprised but pleased to be included so quickly. "You bet, princess. I know just the kids who could use a chance."

"Excellent," Audrey said, her smile bright. "Harry, Gil, we'll need your input too. You know the Isle better than anyone here."

As they all gathered around the table, diving into discussions about which kids to prioritize and what resources they'd need, Uma felt a warmth in her chest that had nothing to do with the room temperature. This, she realized, was what it felt like to be part of something bigger, something that could really make a difference.

She caught Audrey's eye across the table, and the two shared a moment of understanding. They'd come a long way from being on opposite sides, and now, working together, there was no telling what they could accomplish.

Uma grinned to herself. Oh yes, this alliance was definitely going to shake things up in Auradon. And she, for one, couldn't wait to see it all unfold.

As the hours ticked by, Gil found himself increasingly in awe of Audrey and Chad's dedication. They worked tirelessly, making call after call, drafting plans, and coordinating logistics. However, his admiration was tinged with growing concern as he noticed neither of them had paused for so much as a snack.

"Um, guys?" Gil ventured, glancing at the clock. "Don't you think it's time for a break? Maybe some food?"

Audrey barely looked up from her notebook. "Just a few more calls, Gil. We're making real progress here."

Chad nodded in agreement, already dialing another number. "Can't stop now. We're on a roll."

Gil exchanged a worried look with Uma and Harry. It was nearly nine o'clock, and the royals showed no signs of slowing down.

Harry, however, had apparently reached his limit. With a decisive move, he strode over to Chad and plucked the phone from his hand, ending the call.

"Hey!" Chad protested, reaching for the device.

"Nope," Harry said firmly, holding the phone out of reach. "Office is closed for the night, mate."

Audrey looked up, blinking in confusion. "But we still have so much to do—"

"And it'll all be there in the morning, princess," Uma interjected, standing up and stretching. "Right now, you both need rest."

Chad tried to argue. "We can't just stop now. We need to—"

His words were cut off as Uma grabbed his wrist, tugging him towards the pile of blankets and pillows that Harry and Gil had quietly assembled on the floor while the royals were distracted with work.

"What you need," Uma said, her tone brooking no argument, "is to relax and recharge. Can't help the VKs if you work yourselves into exhaustion."

Chad stumbled slightly as Uma pulled him down into the cozy nest. He looked bewildered for a moment before the comfort of the setup seemed to register, and his body visibly relaxed.

Audrey, however, still hesitated at the edge of the blanket pile. "I don't know if I should—"

Her uncertainty was swiftly addressed as Harry reached out, gently but firmly tugging her down between himself and Gil.

"No arguments, love," Harry said softly, arranging a blanket over her. "Ye've done plenty for one day."

Gil nodded enthusiastically, already snuggled up on Audrey's other side. "Yeah! Puppy piles are the best way to relax. Trust me."

Audrey's resistance melted as she found herself enveloped in the warmth and comfort of her friends.

"I suppose a short break wouldn't hurt," she conceded, her eyes already growing heavy.

Uma smirked, settling in next to Chad. "That's more like it. Now, all of you, eyes closed. We've got another big day tomorrow."

As the group nestled together, the stress of the day seemed to dissipate. The room fell into a comfortable silence, broken only by the soft sounds of breathing as, one by one, they drifted off to sleep.