A Princess and A Zombie (A Z-O-M-B-I-E-S and Descendants AU)

Ch. 9

"Where are you taking me?" Aurelia giggled as she followed her brother. The evening following her parents' 30th-anniversary celebration had transitioned into a more relaxed atmosphere. The castle's grounds were bathed in the soft glow of lanterns, creating a magical ambiance.

Ben turned and winked at her, his eyes twinkling mischievously. "It's a surprise, Lia. You'll see."

They strolled through the castle gardens, their footsteps softened by the lush grass underfoot. The air was filled with the fragrance of blooming flowers and the distant sound of a fountain.

Aurelia couldn't help but feel a sense of peace and contentment as she followed her brother through this enchanting landscape. Her time away from Auradon had made her appreciate the beauty of her home even more.

Her face broke out into a broad grin as they arrived at their destination. She laughed when she saw what Ben had in store.

"The enchanted lake?"

Ben nodded, his own smile reflecting the happiness that radiated from his sister. "I thought it would be the perfect spot for us to catch up, away from the hustle and bustle of the castle. Plus, it's where we used to spend so much time together when we were kids."

Aurelia's eyes shimmered with nostalgia as she looked out at the calm, moonlit lake. "I've missed this place. It's been too long."

As they settled down by the lake's edge, Ben produced a small picnic basket. "I brought some of your favorite snacks."

Aurelia's heart swelled with gratitude for her thoughtful brother. "You always know how to make me feel better, Ben."

They spent the evening reminiscing about their childhood, sharing stories of their adventures, and catching up on all that had happened during the time they were apart. Time seemed to slow down as they talked and laughed, surrounded by the serenity of the enchanted lake.

As the night deepened, Ben and Aurelia lay back on the grass, gazing at the stars above.

"Life has changed so much for both of us," Ben mused, his voice soft and reflective.

Aurelia turned her head to look at her brother. "Yeah, it's hard to believe you're married. It feels like it was just yesterday that you made the decision to bring villain kids to Auradon Prep."

Ben chuckled as he gazed lovingly at his sister. "Yeah, well, after everything that's happened..."

Aurelia smiled warmly at her brother. "It's been a wild ride, that's for sure. But I'm proud of the choices you've made and the kingdom we're building."

Ben reached over and gave her hand a reassuring squeeze. "We're building," He corrected. "We're in this together Lia."

Under the starry night sky, the siblings found comfort in the bond that had held them together through the years.

"I leave tomorrow." Her voice was quiet.

Ben sighed, the weight of her departure evident in his expression. "I know, Lia. I wish you could stay longer."

Aurelia nodded, her white hair catching the moonlight. "I'll be back."

Her brother smiled, his gaze still fixed on the stars. "I'll hold you to that. And until then, I'll always be just a message away."

As they lay side by side, beneath the canopy of stars, brother and sister cherished the quiet moments they had together. In the stillness of the enchanted night, they found solace in each other's company, knowing that no matter the distance or time apart, their bond would remain unbreakable.