¹ Claws of Legacy: Legacy's Descent ✓

CHAPTER 4

Ben nodded and began the tour, leading the group toward the garden while sharing interesting facts about the school. As you approached his father's formidable statue, Ben clapped his hands, causing it to come to life and emit a menacing growl. Carlos let out a squeal and instinctively jumped into Jay's arms. Sensing Carlos's fear, Ben quickly clapped his hands again, and the statue transformed magically into a young prince, soothing Carlos's nerves.

"It's alright, Carlos. My father designed the statue to change from a beast to a man, reminding us that anything is possible," Ben reassured him.

You chuckled softly and nudged Jay, prompting him to release Carlos. Adjusting the young white-haired boy's clothes, you motioned for him to join the rest of the group as the tour continued.

Inside the building, you marveled at the warm and sunny ambiance created by the fireplace, dark wood staircases, chandeliers, and stained glass windows. Mal inquired about the presence of magic in Auradon, asking about wands and similar objects.

"Yeah, magic does exist, but it's mostly retired," Ben explained. "Most of us here are ordinary mortals."

"Except for the fact that we're kings and queens," Mal added.

Audrey, displaying a hint of snobbery, draped herself over Ben, asserting, "That's true! Our royal lineage goes back centuries." She cast a possessive gaze at Ben.

Ben disentangled himself from Audrey's grip and called out to a nerdy boy named Doug, descending the stairs in a blue-and-gold marching band uniform while carrying a clipboard. "Doug! Doug, come down!" Ben placed a hand on Doug's shoulder. "Everyone, meet Doug. He'll assist you with your class schedules and show you around the dorms." He looked directly at Mal. "I'll catch up with you later, alright? If you need anything, don't hesitate to—"

"Ask Doug," Audrey interjected with a forced laugh, dragging Ben away.

Rolling your eyes, you glanced at the boy, tilting your head slightly as your gazes met. He shyly smiled at you before introducing himself. "I'm Dopey's son. You know, from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs? Dopey, Doc, Bashful, Happy, Grumpy, Sleepy, and..." Evie caught Doug's eye and prompted him to finish with a cheerful "Heigh-ho." The charm of his words left Evie charmed in return.

You smirked, pleased that everything seemed to be going smoothly. With Evie's irresistible charm, anyone would fall for her, which could only benefit your plans.

As Doug began discussing the classes you would be taking, counting them off, you snorted upon hearing about a new class called "Remedial Goodness 101." Doug seemed apologetic, a bit overwhelmed by the presence of so many girls, but you didn't mind. Stepping away, you, Evie, and Mal followed Doug's suggestion to find your dorms.

"Let's locate our rooms," Mal suggested, and you ascended the stairs. However, Doug's hesitant interruption made you all turn around and quickly head in the opposite direction.

As you passed the half-dwarf, you shot him a narrowed, golden-eyed look before trotting after your friends, with Carlos tailing behind.

You walked alongside the girls, searching for your dorm while the boys ventured to their respective rooms.

Upon entering the dorm, you were greeted by a light and airy atmosphere, bathed in dappled sunlight. The white canopy beds adorned with pink pillows and fluttering flowery curtains created a pleasant and cozy setting. Though you preferred darker colors, you couldn't deny the appeal of this place in Auradon.

"Wow," Evie exclaimed, amazed. "This place is incredible—"

"Gross," Mal interjected.

"I know, right?" Evie quickly changed her tune. "Incredibly gross. Ew!" When Mal wasn't looking, Evie couldn't help but silently gasp in joy at her new living space. You nudged her playfully and smiled before going to bed, running your ringed hand over the soft fabric. It felt gentler than the makeshift cribs back on the Isle, where you would sleep on furs or something similar. Here, they seemed to regard you as a human rather than a beast that would harm them if they crossed a line.

It's nice to be seen as something other than what my father was, you thought, turning around to see Evie and Mal admiring the slightly darker part of the room.

"Whoa!" Mal exclaimed. "That's much better." You couldn't help but snort in agreement.