A/N: This story is based on two by AirbornAnomoly. "Split the Ice Apart" and it's sequel "Light at the end of the Snowstorm"
u/5446966/AirbornAnomaly
In it Elsa befriended one of her guards and over time that friendship grew to love. In the end they marry.
Elsa however finds out that the trolls took a price for helping Anna, Elsa's fertility, she can not have children.
I just couldn't leave it at that. With permission form AirbornAnomoly I've written my own continuation of the story.
Anna squealed when she saw the ring on her sisters' hand.
"Ha, ha, Anna, settle down."
"Settle down? No. Elsa this is amazing, you're amazing, Hank's amazing. When is the ceremony?"
"Well we haven't gotten to that yet, " Anna didn't even let Elsa finish. "I'm taking care of this one. You said I could take some royal duties. I want this one."
Elsa relented. "Okay, you're my wedding planner."
"YES!" Anna exclaimed.
"You're also going to be my matron of honor, aren't you?"
"Oh, ME, oh, yes, I'd be honored."
"Thank you, Anna."
"I'm happy to do it," she said, as the sisters shared an embrace.
Anna was already thinking. "I'll have to get messages to Corona of course. Then there's also Prince Eric and Princess Ariel." Anna continued listing people she wanted to invite to the wedding. "Oh and of course the trolls."
Elsa stiffened. Given what they'd taken from her she wasn't fond of the idea of having them at her wedding. But turning them down would mean telling Anna that her life was bought at the expense of her sisters' ability to have children. Yes, it was something she'd have to be told eventually, but when the time is right. Not just out of nowhere. In that moment she decided. She would not let Pabbie, or anyone else, steel her joy. She was in love, she was about to marry her best friend. She had the sister she loved so much, and Kristoff, who she'd come to love as a brother. Let them come. She will not give anyone power over her happiness ever again.
Eugene walked into the VIP quarters that they were staying in "Well it looks like we'll be staying here for a while." He announced to his wife.
"Is that a good thing or bad. You're being a little cryptic."
"Let's just say we're not going to miss this wedding."
Rapunzel smiled. She hadn't liked Captain Erickson after the fencing competition, but, as Eugenie had pointed out it had been his idea. And the man responsible for her cousin's safety should be one who doesn't accept defeat. But the thing that really started changing her mind was seeing the absolute love Elsa had for him. She could easily see herself in Elsa's place if Eugene had been the one laying injured...after saving everyone, including her. Well that and it seemed that he and Eugene had really hit it off. Almost like they bonded over beating each other up. 'Must be a guy thing', she guessed. "So, he finally proposed?"
"Well, yeah. That generally has to happen before a wedding."
She gave him a disapproving look. "No need to be a wise guy about it." Then she turned to more practical matters. "I'll have to write a note to mother and father. They may want to attend."
Soon the whole Kingdom was buzzing about the news that the Queen was to wed soon. Some, in truth, were surprised to find that she and her fiance weren't already married. It seemed the whole town was making preparations for the wedding.
In one room of the palace a lone figure stood in front of the portrait of the late King and Queen. Hank Erickson looked up at the two almost as though they were actually standing in front of him. He might normally have said this was silly, but he felt the need to be here.
"You would be proud of them," he said. "They've grown into strong, beautiful, smart young ladies. Oh, not without some struggles, and you might be very angry with our new Barron had you been here when Anna told us she was expecting. But he's a good man." Hank chuckled "Just don't tell him I said that." His tone got more serious. "I swear to you. I'll take care of her. I'll protect her and I'll love her. She will never forget that she's loved. Between me and Bjorgman, we'll keep them happy."
"Having a talk with the in-laws?" He heard his favorite voice behind him. He turned to face her. "Yeah, I guess so. Silly I know but..."
Elsa interrupted him. "No, it's not silly. Or if it is, I'm just as silly. I come here sometimes and do the same. I don't think they can hear. At least the Bishop doesn't think so. But it helps me clear my head."
Hank nodded. "Yes, I guess that's what I was doing." He added. "I'm just sure when they knew what was going to happen on that ship, that they thought about you and Anna. I just wish I could let them know that you two are okay."
Elsa teared up a little. "I'll tell them when I see them again someday."
Hank reached up to Elsa's face. "Now I didn't mean to do this," He said as he wiped her tears.
She smiled at his loving touch. "Well you'll just have to kiss those tears away then."
He glanced at the portrait, asking Elsa. "Do you think the folks would mind us kissing in front of them?"
"I don't think they'll mind," She said as Hank cupped her face and leaned over to kiss his soon to be bride. Not a hungry kiss, not one filled with physical passion, but one meant to convey the depths of his love for her, just as he felt hers.
"You can do that anytime, no matter who's looking," She told him.
"I'll remember that," He told her. She smiled at him, then said. "Come one, we have a lot to do. We have two ceremonies to plan."
"Two?" He asked.
"Of course, our wedding then your coronation as King." She saw the doubtful look on his face. "Worried?"
He shook his head. "No, I've got you. That's all I need to face anything."
"Funny, I was thinking the same thing," She said as she gave him a small peck on the lips.
"Save it for the wedding night you two." They heard from the doorway as Anna and Rapunzel came in. "Elsa," Anna said. "Come on, you have an appointment with the seamstress and you." She pointed to Hank. "Can't see her in the dress yet. So, go hang out with Kristoff and Eugene or something."
"Yes ma'am," he said as he made his way out.
The wedding was scheduled for two months later, to give other Kingdoms time to send their representatives. In the meantime, the three couples spent a great deal of time together. Hank, while a proud man, was not so proud that he would refuse to learn new skills, and allowed Eugene to help him sharpen his swordsmanship skills.
"You'll soon be an expert, as certified by no less than Flynn Rider."
"Flynn Rider?" Hank asked.
"Don't tell me the Captain of the guard hasn't seen my wanted posters."
"Yeah, I have but you don't look anything like him," Hank said, hoping he was keeping a straight face.
"It's the nose, isn't it?"
Hank laughed, "Yeah, I think it is." Then he said, "So that's how you perfected that pose you took before our duel."
"Hey, you got to look the part," Eugene said.
"Well you've got it down."
"That I do," Eugene said. "Oh, by the way your fencing equipment will be arriving with Queen Arianna. By that time, you'll know what to do with it."
Hank nodded. "Alright, I'll pay you back with some hand to hand training, and maybe some work with a war axe."
"Not a bad idea, Blondie's bodyguard never misses an opportunity to give me a hard time about that; and from where I stand, you'd be a match for the Stabbington brothers. He amended, "well one on one maybe"
"Okay it's a deal," Hank said. "Just out of curiosity, why do you still call Rapunzel blondie?"
"Well the nickname just stuck I guess."
"On another subject," He said clasping Eugene by the upper arm. I find myself in need of a best man."
Eugene smiled, "I'm honored, but I thought that would be Kristoff. You know, returning the favor; Since you were his"
"No, he'll be giving the bride away."
"Okay," Eugene said. "You've got it buddy."
The time came. Everyone was in the chapel. Hank stood in front of the Bishop waiting for his bride. Not in his uniform, he was no longer a member of the royal guard, but in a dress uniform designed by Elsa, Anna and Kai. It clearly took some inspiration from the formal wear Elsa's father wore.
He hadn't seen this many foreign representatives even at Anna and Kristoff's wedding. Of course, Princess Rapunzel and Prince Eugene were there. They were part of the wedding party after all. Elsa's Aunt, Queen Arianna was in the first row. He recognized the royal couple of Denmark, it seemed that Elsa wouldn't be the only one with a magical past here today.
A moment later everyone heard the notes that told them the bride was about to walk down the aisle.
Hank turned to face the rear of the chapel, where Elsa entered, escorted by her brother in law, the Barron Bjorgman. Hank found himself stunned at her beauty. She wore her mother's wedding dress; Which, according to Anna, had needed no alteration.
He took in every curve, the sway of her hips as she walked, the shape of her legs. She wore ice slippers, of her own making of course. Her hair fell around her shoulders, and her beautiful blue eyes shown even through the veil. Truly, from head to toe, she was stunning.
They came to the front and Kristoff placed Elsa's hand in Hanks. The Bishop spoke, "Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to join this man and this woman in holy matrimony..."
That was the last either of them heard as they became lost in each others gaze. Blue eyes looked into blue eyes, each intent on the others face, the soft lines of her cheek, his strong, square jawline, her cute nose, the ridge of his brow, and the lips that each longed to claim.
They were jolted out of their trance by the Bishop. "Henrik Erickson," The tone and the slight chuckles of the congregation telling him that he'd missed it the first time. He looked to see a kind, if amused, look on the Bishops face. "Do you take this woman to be your lawfully wedded wife? In sickness and in health, for richer or poorer, forsaking all others keep yourself only for her as long as you both shall live?"
He looked Elsa in the eyes answering, "I do!"
The Bishop then addressed Elsa, "Do you take this man to be you're lawfully wedded husband? In sickness and in health, for richer or poorer, forsaking all others keep yourself only for him as long as you both shall live?"
She answered with a joy in her voice that she never thought she would find. "I do."
The Bishop then announced, "Then by the power vested in me by the holy church, and in the eyes of our Lord, I now pronounce you man and wife." Addressing Hank, he continued. "You may kiss the bride." Hank lifted the veil and leaned in while Elsa stood on her toes, as they took each others lips, filling each other with love and being filled by the other.
The two turned to face their family, friends and guests. The congregation stood applauding as the two made their way down the aisle in a shower of rice. They waved as they got into Kristoff's sled. "See you in two days," Elsa called out.
As the sled left for Hanks cabin, already heavily guarded now, he asked Elsa, "You really want to do this ceremony right after the wedding?"
"Of course," she answered, "All of our friends are here now, no reason to have them go home just so they can come back in a couple of weeks."
"Eminently practical," he said.
"Not all practical," she told him, "I really want to get that crown on your head."
"As you wish my Queen." Then he mentioned. "Afterword, Eugene has invited us to Corona. I thought we might take him up on it."
Elsa had a doubtful look on her face. Hank could guess why. "Queen Ariel told me that she can assure us smooth sailing."
Elsa shook her head. "I swear sometimes I think you can read my mind."
"I've made it my top priority to know what you need or want."
She smiled mischievously. "Oh really, well what do I want now?"
He returned her smile. "I'll answer you when we get to the cabin."
In a short time, they were pulling up to his cabin. Hank got off the sled and then helped Elsa down. Kristoff called down, "Thanks for the lift Kristoff."
"Anything for family. See you in two days." He said, then rode off.
Elsa then said, "Well looks like there's another ritual we have to address."
Hank smiled then lifted her off her feet as she put an arm around his neck. He then carried his bride across the threshold of the cabin.
As promised Kristoff came for them two days later. They arrived at the palace where the Queen and her soon to be King went to prepare him for the ceremony. Of course, he had been there when Elsa was crowned so he had some idea of what would happen. Still, Elsa went through it with him. As they prepared to leave for the cathedral she asked. "Nervous?"
"Surprisingly, no, not really. I was a little bit this morning but I'm feeling pretty steady now."
"You should be. It's clear that the people like you. Half of them already saw you as King anyway."
With a quick kiss they left for the ceremony.
It was a simple affair. Elsa looked on with pride as, first the crown was placed on his head, then he held the orb and scepter. He looked much more confident than she had. But then why wouldn't he. He wasn't in silent terror that he would expose a long-held secret. One that could turn the whole Kingdom against him.
Once the ceremony was over Elsa rushed to her husband, greeting him with a kiss. They left with Anna and Kristoff to see to the preparations for the royal ball this evening, to be held in celebration of both the wedding and the coronation of the new King.
Soon the guest began to arrive. As Elsa had instructed, she and Hank waited to enter the ballroom.
When they heard the fanfare announcing their arrival they walked out. Hank was nervous now. Not so much for himself as that he didn't want to embarrass Elsa. But, if he could go onto battle without flinching, he can just walk into a room with at least the appearance of confidence.
"The King Henrik and Queen Elsa of Arendelle." They walked out to the dais to a loud applause; joining Anna and Kristoff who had been announced before them.
Elsa looked out. She actually didn't know as many of these people as Hank did. 'That's what thirteen years of isolation will get you.' She thought to herself.
She did know a few of them; After all that isolation had ended three years ago. The royal couple of Denmark, William Clayton, Earl of Graystoke; who's cousin had been lost much the way her own parents had, Princess Freyja, Val as her friends called her. But she was surprised to see what almost looked like an older version of the man who had nearly ended her life all those years ago. Aside from some gray hair, an older looking face and a small beard, he looked like Hans...and he was approaching the dais.
Elsa didn't give an inch as he approached, but she was glad for her husband, oh she loved calling him that, stepping in front of her. She saw the look of resignation on the visitor's face. He must have expected this response.
"Your Majesties," he said with a slight bow. I am Prince Azure, crown prince of the Southern Isles."
"A pleasure to meet you Prince Azure," Hank said. Elsa was impressed, he was jumping right into his new role. Of course, some of this was his longtime role as her protector and friend.
"I realize my presence here must be somewhat awkward but it's my hope to restore the good relationship our Kingdoms had before the treachery of my youngest brother."
Hank and Elsa looked at each other, somehow just not needing words. She said, "I trust there have been appropriate consequences for his actions."
"There have been. My father wants him to have a chance to redeem himself, but he must understand our displeasure with his actions."
Hank said. "I hope he can earn your trust, but I don't think he'll ever be welcomed here in Arendelle."
The four exchanged glances, Elsa said, "We will discuss this with you later. Speak to us again tomorrow evening."
The crown prince bowed in acknowledgment. "I will take my leave until then." He began to walk away but stopped. "If I may ask your Majesty," he turned to Elsa, "You didn't happen to toss a large snowball our way a couple of years ago, during the Spring?"
The royals looked at each other puzzled for a moment, then Anna said. "The birthday horn." Elsa looked puzzled.
"You were pretty sick," Anna said, "You insisted on blowing the horn and a big snowball blew out of it."
"It would have been the right direction," Kristoff said.
She remembered, she had barely been able to stand, and Anna had insisted that she go to bed, enlisting Hanks help getting her there.
As if reading her mind Anna said. "You didn't seem to mind being carried by your big, beefy captain of the guard."
Somewhat amused by the banter of the royal family, Azure interjected. "Well it was a direct hit. Landed right on Hans as he was cleaning the stable."
"While I have no sympathy for him, that wasn't intended for him," Elsa said.
"It's okay. I'll speak to you tomorrow."
Just then the orchestra leader signaled Kia. He requested that the royal couples begin the first dance.
Later that evening was the banquet. During this time many wedding gifts were presented to the royal couple. The largest being given by Elsa's cousin Rapunzel. "It's docked in your harbor now."
Elsa said, "You mean the ship you came in?"
"That's right," Eugene said. "A Man-O-War, but with quarters outfitted for royal comfort. And we want you to use it to visit us."
Rapunzel added. "It's a great place for a honeymoon."
Elsa found herself looking for reasons to turn the invitation down. The idea still made her nervous, A royal couple of Arendelle taking an ocean voyage to Corona. Her thoughts were making her queasy.
On Cue, literally so, as they had anticipated this, Queen Ariel of Denmark said. "Our gift comes from my father, King Triton. He has placed his mark on that ship. It will always have smooth seas and be under his protection."
It took her a minute but her new philosophy prevailed again. "My thanks to all of you." Elsa said to both royal couples. She then decided. "I think my husband and I will accept your invitation." She said, addressing Eugene and Rapunzel. She was rewarded with a big smile from her cousin.
The challenges Elsa would face that day were not over. A few more gifts were presented then the trolls, technically extended family now walked up, apparently to offer a gift. They were led by Pabbie. She was grateful to them for what they'd done for her...and she hated that for what they'd done to her. She squeezed Hanks hand under the table. He squeezed back, knowing that this must be the hardest moment in an evening that had already had enough of them.
Pabbie approached, was that a look of contrition on his face? Elsa thought.
"Queen Elsa," He began, very softly so only those seated next to her could hear. I feel that I have wronged you." Elsa kept silent, drawing on the love of her sister and husband to keep her royal bearing; to hold back from shouting "You're damn right you have." The chief continued. "I have made grievous mistakes."
From his place at the banquet table Kristoff could see his grandfather was very troubled. He had never seen him struggling about how to address a matter before. Pabbie had actually sought Kristoff's advice on how to approach this with Elsa. Pabbie had told him that he could have refrained from taking any price, or if he had to it should have been from the one making the request...and he should have made the price clear to the royal couple before preforming the magic.
Kristoff was very good at reading people and had advised his grandfather not to go into all of the could have and should have. A list of why things didn't have to be the way they are would only anger Elsa.
"Gifts however are a common Troll custom," Pabbie said. "Today I offer two gifts. The first to return what was wrongly taken from you. You need only accept it."
He was offering to return her fertility; The price he'd taken in exchange for saving Anna's life. Elsa couldn't hold back completely. She asked. "And what is the unspoken cost of this." There were too many emotions swirling inside her now; relief and joy that she could be a mother, could give her husband children; But at the same time anger and resentment that her natural right had been taken from her to begin with, indignation that he now offered to return that which he had no right to take from her. Would he expect her to THANK him?
Three years ago, something like this would have resulted in an ice storm INSIDE the palace that might have killed everyone there. It threatened to do so now. Just then she felt Hank, who she had not noticed letting go of her hand, reach over to give her knee a slight squeeze. She jerked and tried to suppress a giggle, only semi-successfully. Darn, he was good at refocusing her.
She batted Hanks hand from her knee as she noticed the mischievous smile on his face. "I accept." She answered.
Pabbie stood on the backs of two of his people and reached for Elsa's hands. As he held them, she saw a slight white light wisp around them. Pabbie smiled, "It's done."
"My other gift then," Pabbie said, as one of the others brought over what appeared to be more of the troll's moss beer. "There are limits to what I can do for your back King Henrik, but this will ensure that you need not worry about such accidents again. I grant you immunity from magical harm," he added, " And this, unlike the beer before, will be permanent." He was handed a small cup in which there was some kind of ground up...something, and he poured it into the beer. A mist came off of the beer and Pabbie pushed it toward Hank.
Hank gave it a suspicious look for a moment. He glanced over at Kristoff who just nodded. Then he turned to Elsa. They were thinking the same thing. It would be nice not to worry about accidents. He drank. The taste was no different than the last time. He put the mug down and smiled.
The banquet continued and a couple more gifts were offered. At the end of the evening the royal couple went to their quarters.
"You held up well tonight," Hank told Elsa as they sat in their suite.
"Thanks to you, Anna and Kristoff."
"Don't sell yourself short. We just help you find your strength. We can't give you anything you don't already have," he told her.
She smiled. He always knew what to say. Then something occurred to her. "You know there is one thing you can give me that I don't already have. If the trolls were telling the truth."
He was pretty sure he knew where she was going with that. Then she leaned in and, in a low tone, whispered. "Please me, my King."