A/N Okay, so I had a couple of reviewers who quite rightly pointed out that Elsa drank the wine too easily and that Hans should have been in some kind of disguise. After reading your comments, I did think that Hans could have been more sneaky and cunning. In light of this, I decided to delete the chapter and rewrite it again and have Hans come up with a different plan to get Elsa to drink the potion. It still involves drinking wine, but will be approached differently.

Credit goes to my faithful reviewer, Letting it go for giving me the idea.

Thank you to everyone who has reviewed so far, and of course to those who are following or have added to favorites etc.

Well, nothing more to say.. except enjoy the next chapter.


Chapter Two.

"Is this really necessary?" Elsa whined, as a scarf was fastened tightly around her eyes.

"Yes, it is. Now, stop being a such a stinker and keep those eyes closed. And absolutely no peeking," Anna warned her older sister.

"That's hardly going to be a problem, when I can't see a thing," Elsa grumbled.

"Oh good. Because you wouldn't want to ruin the birthday surprise now, would you?" the Princess teased.

"You know I hate surprises," Elsa added, as she reached her hand up to the scarf.

Anna noticed this and swatted her sister's away, before giving it a friendly slap. "What are you doing?"

"It's way too tight," Elsa protested.

The redhead rolled her eyes as she loosened it slightly. "There, is that better?"

The Queen nodded. "Much, thank you."

Anna let out a soft sigh. Her sister may have been the epitome of perfection and sophisticated grace, when it came to the daily running of the Kingdom, but when it came to surprise birthday's, she was a complete party pooper. "Now, are we ready?"

With her anxiety steadily increasing, Elsa nodded, abeit apprehensively. "As ready as I'll ever be."

Before their departure, Anna wrapped her arms around her sister and held her tightly. Her soothing words cutting through the Queen's panicked thoughts. "You know I love you, right?"

Elsa nodded. "Of course."

"And you know everyone in this Kingdom loves you, right? And may I remind you, that whatever happens, this is your birthday. A special day just for you. So, let's go celebrate." Anna took her position alongside her sister and carefully escorted her from her bedchambers.

It was a rather bumpy journey through the castle, as the Princess attempted to steer the Queen along the hallways and down the stairs. Elsa trusted her little sister dearly, yet she was still seriously concerned about Anna's lack of judgement. The blonde still recalled her sister mentioning what happened the last time she blindfolded someone. Apparently the poor man had crashed into a lamp post of all things.

"We're almost there, Elsa," Anna assured the blonde as they approached the entrance to the ballroom.

"Can I open them?"

"NO! I mean, not yet."

Once the redhead has been successful in bringing the Queen to her destination unscathed, she untied the scarf and gave her the signal that she could now open her eyes.

Elsa was astounded that she had made it there in one piece, but even more astonished to find herself in a lavishly decorated ballroom full of happy guests.

Upon seeing the Queen standing in the entranceway, the music came to an abrupt stop as everyone turned to face the young ruler. There was a tense, momentary silence, before the room broke into several applauses and an eruption of...

"SURPRISE!"

Elsa couldn't believe it. Not only did the ballroom resemble a winter wonderland, with a replica of her magnificant ice castle. But there was also large 'happy birthday Elsa' banner draped from the ceiling, and a wondrous, delicious looking four tier cake present in the center of the room.

"It's an ice-cream cake. Do you like it?" Anna asked sheepishly.

Elsa was speechless. "Anna it's...I don't know what to say, except that... it's amazing. You know, I'm not very good at this kind of thing. I've never had a real birthday before." Tears of joy filled her eyes as she embraced her younger sister. The pain and lonliness that she had experienced on each and every birthday since that fateful day thirteen years ago was forever a constant reminder of her and Anna's lost childhood.

But now, seeing everyone so happy and cheery, including Anna, those feelings had been replaced with euphoric exhilaration. "This is amazing. I don't what to say, except...thank you."

Olaf waddled towards his creator. "Um Elsa, I helped the most. So does this mean I get a warm hug now?"

"Of course it does," Elsa beamed as she crouched down to hug the happy snowman.

Kristoff then nervously stepped forward, and with the Queen's permission, he planted a kiss on the back of her hand. "Happy birthday, Your Majesty."

"No need for such formality, Kristoff. Just call me Elsa. Afterall, you're practically family now."

The ice master was left blushing and lost for words, whilst Anna took her sister's hand and yanked her to one side.

"What did I say?" Elsa asked innocently.

"I think you just scared him to death," Anna replied.

Elsa slapped a hand over her mouth. "Oops, did I? sorry Anna...but you do plan on marrying him one day, do you not?"

"Whoa, Elsa. You're the one who said I shouldn't marry a man I've just met. We've only known each other for five months and have only been officially courting for three. There's plenty of time for marriage. But right now, the only thing I care about is you having a fantastic time, like you deserve. So, I was thinking... isn't it about time the birthday girl provides her guests with some real entertainment."

Elsa raised an eyebrow. "What do you have in mind?"

The Princess giggled in a childish manner. "Some ice and snow if you please."

The blonde cast an impish grin. "I thought you'd never ask."


As Hans stepped off the ship onto the docks, he shivered violently. The ex Prince brought a hood over his head and pulled his cloak tighter against the chilly wind, before starting up the cobblestone path.

Hmmm? quieter then I expected. Perhaps the good citizens of Arendelle are sat inside their homes in front of a warm, cozy fire. I must be the only crazy fool out here.

No sooner had he had that thought, he was greeted by a short, tubby man with a balding head. "Welcome to Arendelle, good sir. Are you here for the Queen's birthday celebration?"

Hans frowned in puzzlement. "Birthday celebration?"

"Yes, sir. Today is the winter solstice and Her Majesties twenty-second birthday. Although you are rather late, the party started some time ago."

"Well, I like to arrive fashionably late," Hans joked.

The man exchanged a mirthless smile, before continuing on his way, leaving Hans to his thoughts.

The Queen's birthday on the winter solstice? how rather fitting that the infamous Snow Queen would have been born into this world on such a day.

Unfortunately, this could present a problem. A party could either work to his advantage or disadvantage. The palace, no doubt would be more heavily guarded as usual. World domination sounds awfully inviting, but I want to at least be alive to taste sweet victory.

As he passed two guards patroling the town, he kept his head lowered and his face hidden. Then he made his way towards the castle looming in the distance.

As he approached the gates, he could hear his own heart pounding in his chest. The closer he got, the more nervous he felt. Several guards were patroling this area, and although he knew that Arendelle's soldiers had been rather inept during his last visit, he was sure the Queen had since increased her security measures.

As he shrank back in the shadows, Hans was almost contemplating whether or not this was all worth it, when a blinding explosion of pain rocketed through his head and a achingly, familiar voice spoke to him.

You'd better not be having second thoughts, Prince Hans. Or the dungeon you spent the last five months in will seem like heaven compared to the place I'll be sending you.

Hans gripped his temples as the pain continued. "What the hell is this, old man? what have you done to me?" he demanded to know, in between gritted teeth.

Call it a little insurance policy. Now, you are going to follow through on our deal as we agreed. And you will find a way to give the pesky Queen that potion.

"Yes, yes, just make it stop!" he shrieked, thankful he was alone. Otherwise, he would have had a lot of explaining to do.

Very well. Now, a little word of warning. Just like we will soon have control over the mighty Snow Queen. Remember this. I have control over you. Now hurry along my boy, we haven't got all night.

As instantly as it had started, the pain quickly subsided and Hans was able to catch his breath, allowing him to continue his journey and plan his next move.

Finally arriving at the castle courtyard, he was surprised to see it bustling with a bunch of rowdy commoners from the village, indulging in their own celebration. Who would have thought the witch could have such devout followers.

Pulling his cloak even tighter, Hans reluctantly attempted to blend in with the townsfolk, whilst he sought a plan. He knew he didn't have an eternity, so he would have to act sooner, rather then later. But even with only one lone guard stationed at the castle entrance, getting inside, even with a convincing disguise was going to be extremely risky.

Flustered, the ex-Prince began to pace wildly. Normally, he would have been able to come up with a plan just like that, but for the first time in forever, he was stumped. That was until he overheard a conversation between the guard and a lowly peasant woman.

"Please state your business," the guard questioned authoritatively.

"Oh kind sir. My son and I have come bearing gifts for the Queen. A box of her favorite chocolates and this bottle of the finest red wine."

The guard carefully glanced over them before responding. "Hand them over and I will see to it that Her Majesty gets them."

The woman looked rather disappointed. "Is it not possible for us to hand them to her personally? my son has been saving his chore money for three months just to pay for these chocolates. It would mean an awful lot to him."

The soldier shook his head. "I'm sorry, Madame. But I cannot permit any villagers entry into the castle. Queen's orders."

The woman reluctantly handed over the gifts, whilst whispering a heartfelt apology to her son, who subsequently burst out crying.

"It's not fair, Mama. I really wanted to give Queen Elsa the chocolates and wish her a happy birthday. Why can't we go in? doesn't she like us?"

The boy's Mother reassured her son. "Of course she does. The Queen cares about everyone. I'm sure she is just very busy right now."

At first, Hans couldn't help but chuckle at their failure. You really think that bitch cares about you? the only thing that witch cares about is her whore of a sister. It was only after momentarily relishing in their obvious misery that an idea popped right into his head. Oh Hans. Now why didn't you think of this before? Immediately, he sprang into action and confronted the burly looking guard.

"I'm sorry for the intrusion, but I couldn't help overhear what you said to that poor woman and her lad just now. So, forgive me if I'm out a little out of line here. But are you really going to deny two very loyal and faithful villagers their request to hand those wondrous looking chocolates and that exquisite bottle of wine over to the Queen? look at that poor boy now? whatever would the Queen say? I really wouldn't like to be in your shoes when she discovers that you've managed to upset one of her youngest subjects. You may just find yourself a nice courtyard decoration."

The guard looked a little dumbstruck. "T-The Queen would never..."

"Ah, but I bet you never thought she would plunge her own Kingdom into an eternal winter either now, did you?" Hans countered.

"Wait, how did you know about the Queen's magical powers? who exactly are you?"

Hans scoffed at his line of questioning. "Every Kingdom in Europe has heard of the Snow Queen. She is rather famous. And as for me, well, I am merely a merchant traveling from the South, and am just passing through. I was hoping to meet with Her Majesty myself in order to conduct a little business."

He crept closer, until his mouth was level with the man's ear. "Now maybe, if you grant these kind people and myself an audience with the Queen, we can forget all about your little indiscretion just now."

"Indiscretion!" The flustered guard was not overly impressed, but he handed the gifts back to the villagers regardless and invited them inside. "Alright, come with me."

The woman took hold of her son's hand and followed the guard inside. As they were led down a long hallway, she then turned to Hans, expressing her gratitude. "Thank you good sir. You have no idea how much this means to us."

"No need to thank me. I was just doing what any good man would do." And any good ruler.

Outside the familiar looking ballroom, the guard prompted them to halt. "Wait here, whilst I go and inform the Queen."


Anna had certainly been correct, when she had promised her sister the perfect day. Elsa had had the best time of her life. Aside from the fun she had provided for her guests, she had also indulged in three slices of ice-cream cake, and four helpings of chocolate fondue.

She had even accepted dance invitations from two dashingly handsome Prince's. Of course, she had also forced herself to dance with a few self-absorbed Prince's too. You know, the kind that were so busy drawling on about their big, fat egos, that she was itching to freeze them into popsicles.

Snooty Prince Harkin of Bavaria had even walked away in disgust, when the blonde beauty had informed him rather politely that one, he was so wooden and two, that she would have had a more fulfilling conversation with Olaf - her walking, talking snowman.

Now, as she slumped down onto her throne, she was utterly exhausted. Anna had insisted she help the servants in the kitchen, so Elsa had been left alone. She had just closed her eyes when she heard a familiar voice.

"As it would seem one hot babe has seemingly abandoned me. I decided I would check out another hot babe. A dance, Your Majesty?"

Her eyes snapped open, only for her to see her sister's boyfriend standing there, his hand extended towards her. "Kristoff?"

The ice master's shaggy blond hair was unkempt, his eyes red and bloodshot, and he was swaying lightly on his feet. It was clear to the Queen that he had definitely drank way too much.

"I don't think that would be such a good idea, under the circumstances. You seem to be extremely intoxicated and it is clear you don't know what you're doing. Why don't you let me and go and find Anna for you."

Elsa weaved in and out of several guests and was almost to the exit, when she saw one of her trusty guards approaching.

"Your Majesty. Sorry to disturb you, but I have a woman and her young son from the village waiting outside. They come bearing gifts for you, and were quite insistent on presenting them to you personally. But, if you'd prefer, I can send them away."

"Wait, what? no of course not. Please, send them in. The more the merrier."

Before the guard turned to leave, he spoke once again. "Oh and there is another young man accompanying them. He states he is a merchant who has traveled from the South. He is requesting to speak with you."

Elsa wasn't really up for conducting any kind of business, it was rather late and she was tired. But if some merchant had traveled this far to see her, then she would at least give him the courtesy of a few minutes of her time. "Splendid. Send them all in."

Once the guard had returned with the message that the Queen would be happy to see them, the woman and her son headed straight for the young ruler, whilst Hans kept a safe distance. He would wait for them to have their moment with the snow bitch, and then he would gladly have his moment of glory.

The woman and the boy addressed the Queen politely, curtseying and bowing, before handing over their gifts. Elsa then proceeded to have a laugh and giggle with them. Soon, all three were deep in conversation.

Hans was growing more impatient by the minute. He had no idea what they were talking about, but quite frankly, he was bored. What the heck. I know she didn't socialize much in thirteen years, but currently, she is even putting Anna to shame. What can she possibly find to say to these half-wits?

Finally, the two bid the Queen a fond farewell, and after they were escorted from the room, Hans was ready to make his move.

Dipping into a bow, the ex Prince stepped forward and greeted her appropriately. "Good evening, Your Majesty. It's nice to finally see you again."

"Again?" Elsa queried as she took a seat on her throne and gestured for the merchant to join her.

"Yes. The first time I came to see you was at your Coronation. I was actually very excited to meet Arendelle's mysterious new Queen. But unfortunately, I was interrupted from doing so by that whole fiasco. You know, the one where the entire Kingdom was covered in ice and snow."

The memory of what happened five months ago often left a sour taste in her mouth. "I can assure you, nothing like that will ever happen again."

In an attempt to change the subject, Elsa grabbed the bottle of wine the woman had given her. "It was very sweet of Mary to give me this bottle of wine. And red too, my favorite. Oh, and I mustn't forget little Hugo. He presented me with these delectable chocolates. Although I must try my best to cut down on the candy. I wouldn't want to get too fat."

Hans decided to indulge her with a compliment. "I wouldn't worry about that, Your Majesty. You have quite the lovely figure, if I may say so myself."

Elsa's breathing hitched and she found herself hiding a blush. Quickly she unopened the bottle, and offered him a drink.

Hans greatly obliged and the blonde poured two glasses.

"So, what can I do for you...?" she paused long enough to prompt him for a name.

"Oh forgive me. The name is Wesley. Wesley Hansel."

"So, what can I do for you, Mr Hansel?"

Before he gave her an answer, he purposely allowed the glass to slip, spilling a small proportion of the wine down the front of his cloak. "Oh dear, how terribly clumsy of me."

The Queen was quickly on her feet. "Hold on there, I'll fetch you some napkins."

Whilst the Queen had left her drink unattended, Hans took the potion that he had concealed in his cloak, uncapped the top and poured the entire contents into her glass.

"I thought my sister was the clumsy one," she chuckled as she handed him the clean napkin. "Now, where were we? ah yes. What can I do for you?" she repeated, whilst taking a long sip of her drink.

"Actually, Your Majesty, it's more like what you can do for me."

The blonde took a larger sip of the alcohol as she motioned for him to continue. "Please do explain?"

"Well, you see, Your Majesty. I'm in the business of buying and selling. Only I'm afraid to say that during my last visit, I left this lovely little Kingdom with nothing of value."

Maybe it was exhaustion, the mental strain or even the wine, but Elsa was a little bewildered. "I don't understand."

The Queen maybe powerful, but she certainly lacks intelligence. "To put it simply, I was so busy focusing on finding the one thing I truly desired, I actually neglected to see the potential in something much more precious."

Confusion continued to line her face as she found herself gulping down an even larger mouthful of her drink. "I'm afraid, I haven't the slightest idea what you're talking about."

"You will," he sneered darkly.

Even more confused, she slurped down the last drop of wine and suddenly began feeling quite giddy. "Oh my. You're going to have to excuse me...I don't know what has come over me... that wine. I don't understand.. ...it's making me feel..." A wave of dizziness overtook her and she found herself unwittingly stumbling into his arms.

"I knew you'd be falling head over heels for me, cutie. I just wasn't expecting it to be so soon," Hans smirked, as he leered at her from underneath his hood.

"Wait, what?"

"Don't you recognize me, Elsa?" he snarled, his voice returning to its normal tone, as he unveiled himself. "Surprise!"

No, it can't be! She clenched her fists, whilst her body shook. The expression on her face changed from a look of puzzlement, to one of shock and disbelief. She swung her hand and slapped him hard across the face, before glaring at with an icy gaze.

Hans pursed his lips. "Was that too casual? it was the cutie thing, wasn't it?"

Elsa ignored his flippant remark, instead clutching her head to alleviate the throbbing pain. "W-What was in that wine? I feel...strange...like..."

"You're in love with me," Hans said, finishing her sentence.

Elsa managed to stand bold and defiant. "What are you talking about? love you? get out, before I freeze you where you stand."

"Elsa, Elsa, Elsa, no need for such violence. I am unarmed and defenceless. Tell me though. How is that lovely sister of yours? has she spread her legs for that common ice harvester yet? I means that's all she's good for, right?"

"You monster!" she hissed angrily. A certain coolness stirred within her, and she raised her hand ready to strike.

With lightning quick reflexes, Hans grabbed her wrist, and twisted it viciously. "No. That would be you!"

Elsa suppressed a scream as the intensity of his grip increased. She was sure that at any moment her bone would snap like a twig. "You're not going to have this Kingdom...I-I won't let you."

He gave her a crooked grin, before releasing her wrist. Elsa staggered backwards before collapsing to the floor.

"We're past that Elsa. I've changed, turned over a new leaf. And believe me, this rather puny little Kingdom of yours no longer satisfies me."


Kristoff staggered around the ballroom, looking for either Anna or Elsa, as it now seemed that both girls had vanished from his sight.

After a good twenty minutes, the ice master eventually caught sight of his beloved on the opposite side of the room, engaged in a deep conversation with Gerda. As he manouvered his way over towards the redhead, someone else unexpected caught his eye.

"Is that? No, it can't be." His vision may have been hazy and his brain a little foggy. But there was no mistaking this unwelcome guest. Anger tore through him as he rammed past various guests, until he finally reached Anna.

"Kristoff, where have you been? and...oh my gosh, you look terrible. Wait, are you drunk?"

The ice master nodded. "Maybe...okay, yes. But that's not the problem. It's Elsa."

Anna's questioning suddenly became urgent. "What about, Elsa?"

"E-Elsa...H-Hans...Elsa and Hans," he slurred.

"Kristoff, you're not making any sense. And you're clearly intoxicated, so the only place you should be going is to bed."

"H-He's here...with Elsa."

"Wait, what?!"


Gazing down at the distressed Queen, Hans informed her emphatically. "Your pathetic kingdom may not interest me, but you, Elsa. You are a most valuable asset. And very soon, whether you like it or not...you will love me!"

She glared up at him, visibly perplexed as she choked out a response. "Love you?...if you think I could ever love someone like you, then you're more deluded then I thought. I hate you," she spat bitterly.

"We'll see about that!" What the hell is going on? why is this potion taking so long?

"Hans Westergard!" Anna screamed, pointing in the direction of the traitor, as the room fell into a deafening silence. "Guards, arrest that man!"

Three Arendelle guards marched towards the disgraced Prince, swords drawn.

The Princess hurried to her sister, dropping to her knees and cupping her sister's chin in her hands. "Elsa, Elsa are you alright? he didn't hurt you, did he?"

The Queen stayed silent, as complete chaos churned in her mind. After several tense moments, she finally came to her senses and barked a command. "Stop! release him immediately!"

Anna exchanged a bewildered look with Kristoff, before Elsa spoke again.

"I said release him."

"I believe the Queen has given you an order, Now unhand me," Hans demanded.

The soldiers immediately obeyed whilst Hans patted down his disheveled clothing, and smoothed his auburn hair.

"Elsa, what are you doing? that devious snake is the man who tried to kill us," Anna reminded her older sister.

Scrambling to her feet, the Queen uncontrollably launched herself at the ex Prince, throwing her arms around his neck, before declaring her love. "Oh Hans, I love you."

Hans was about to reciprocate when a blinding pain erupted in his head once again.

You have done well, my boy. You have done well. The Queen is almost ours.


A/N More to come...