Timeless Legacy

Engagement

Elina stood on the balcony, her gaze fixed on the wide expanse of the sea. Her hair, once entirely green, now flowed in a striking combination of light green and white, symbolizing her embrace of both sides of her heritage. Her dress mirrored this duality, with its green and white hues, and a golden serpent belt adding a touch of elegance. Maddox, now more accustomed to his role as Ben'smconfidant and second-in-command, sat beside Elina in a chair, engrossed in a book.

Elina peered through a pair of binoculars, her focus on the horizon. Her expression was a mix of concern and vigilance as she scanned the waters for any sign of Uma. Despite the celebratory mood that had enveloped Auradon, the threat of Uma's return weighed heavily on her mind. Ben, with a wide smile, approached quietly, winking at Maddox, who gave a brief nod of acknowledgment. Ben slipped his arms around Elina from behind, causing her to startle before she recognized him.

"Not a tentacle in sight," Elina said, relaxed slightly and turned to face him. "I think if Uma was up to something, it would've been done by now," Ben added, scanning the sea alongside her.

Elina shook her head, her concern evident. "No, Ben, I know how villains think, and I don't trust Uma as far as I can throw her. She's likely biding her time, waiting for the right moment."

Ben gently took her hands in his. "She's gonna wait until our defenses are down, and that's when she's gonna strike. I really wish I had time to ask Mal for a dragon flyover. She could probably see way more from the sky."

Elina picked up the binoculars again, her brow furrowing in thought. "Well, you can't be everywhere at once," Ben said, gently pushing the binoculars down. He smiled and pointed at the guards stationed atop the castle, their vigilant eyes scanning the sea. "Besides, I've got your back."

Maddox, who had been quietly observing, cleared his throat and stood up. His appearance had evolved into a more edgy look compared to his previous princely attire, a reflection of his time with Harry and Uma. "I think you meant we've got your back," he interjected.

Elina turned to her boys, her eyes softening with gratitude. "What would I do without you?" she asked gently.

They exchanged glances, then shrugged in unison. "Don't know, maybe..." Ben started.

"Despair," Maddox finished.

"Go crazy," Ben continued.

"Hide yourself in a lonely bin," Maddox added with a smirk.

Elina stared at them, her mouth agape before she burst into laughter. "You two are impossible," she said, shaking her head.

Ben gave a playful bow. "Come on, everyone's waiting for us."

Elina followed him and Maddox toward the entrance of Auradon Prep, the same place where she had been welcomed a year ago. The memories of that day were still fresh, a reminder of how far she had come and the new chapter she was about to embrace. As they walked, she couldn't help but feel a mix of nostalgia and excitement for the future that awaited them all.

In front of Auradon Prep, a bustling crowd had gathered, eagerly awaiting the arrival of Ben, Maddox, and Elina. The air was filled with excitement and anticipation. Among the crowd stood Audrey, who had returned with a new look, standing beside her grandmother and Chad.

"Here they come," Evie exclaimed, her eyes sparkling as she stood next to Doug, who was in his band outfit. He signaled the band to start playing as Elina, Ben, and Maddox made their entrance. The crowd cheered respectfully, their enthusiasm undiminished by any reservations about Elina's relationship with Ben and Maddox. Elina, walking between her two boys, greeted people left and right with warmth and charm. As she passed Adam and Belle, who stood next to Mal, she noticed Mal's new look—a shorter, stylish purple hair and a purple dress with dragon wing details, a brilliant design crafted by Evie.