Disney's Frozen: The Crocus and the Crow

by 1534rosa

When Elsa meets a man whose tortured past mirrors her own a newfound desire awakens in her heart as they begin to form a bond. But their union, her family and homeland are imperiled when an ancient evil returns to destroy her and all that she wishes to preserve. Together, they must combine strengths to combat the vengeful darkness rising against Arendelle and the world beyond it.

4. Monsters

Chapter 4: Monsters

Elsa stood at the end of the dining room and watched as the servants prepared the finishing touches to the dinner set for the evening, she contributed with a few embellishments to the setting of her own creation. It was modest, nothing terribly 'elaborate' but still appealing, and considering there was the chance that Aldren didn't show, everyone else could still have their dinner for the evening.

Anna walked up beside her smiling with her hands behind her back. "Looks nice."

Elsa shrugged. "Well perhaps it's not my best work but I suppose it will do for this evening... I wonder if he will even show."

Anna smiled knowingly. "I have a feeling he'll show, I'm almost sure of it."

Elsa gave her sister a sideways glance and grinned. "If he doesn't I could always have him escorted to the palace as I originally planned..."

"Elsa..."

The queen continued with obvious sarcasm. "He did assault one of Arendelle's citizens...in fact I could even have him arrested...might be fun."

Anna stepped in front of Elsa and folded her arms. "Kristoff entered his home without permission and doesn't hold a grudge for something that was his fault."

Elsa chuckled. "I know Anna, I'm only joking."

Anna put her hands on her hips and smiled. "Huh, well whaddya know, you're starting to get it."

Elsa rolled her eyes and put her hands together "So will Kristoff be joining us this evening, despite his less than 'pleasant' encounter with Aldren?"

"As far as I know he still is, he said he might be a bit late, you know how long it takes him to shower...when you manage to convince him to."

Elsa laughed. "Know? I had to wait over and hour on your nineteenth birthday for him to finish, Sven took less time than him."

They both laughed for a moment and sighed, Anna grinned and nudged her sister's hip with her own. "Sooooooo, you excited?"

"About what...?"

Anna began acting out a dramatic swoon into her sister's arms. "Why seeing your handsome, heroic knight in shining armor!... what else?"

Elsa scoffed, setting her sister back on her feet and folding her arms. "I assure you, the armor he wore was far from shining, the only reason I'm allowing him in the palace again is to find out what he may know of the attempt on my life. It's purely...business."

Anna rolled her eyes. "Riiiiight, sure it is."

Elsa shook her head, then her castle overseer Kai walked through the doors and announced that their guest had arrived. Elsa nodded. "Send him in."

Kai smiled and bowed, turning towards the back towards the doors, the two sisters made their way to the entrance to greet him.

Elsa admitted that she felt a strange happiness when Kai announced he'd arrived... that he actually came. She was excited that she may possibly learn more information about the assassins, mostly- partly... well...perhaps she was somewhat eager to see him again ...he was rather handsome and... heroic and...wait! what?

OoO

Aldren walked quietly along the cobblestone streets towards the Arendelle castle, dim candlelight illuminating its windows. His cloak once again concealing his face and body, night was almost upon the land so most residents of the city were at home for the nights which left the streets bare of traffic. He was almost to the main doors when he noticed someone walking a few paces ahead of him to his right, they were also heading to the palace but at a brisker pace. They wore a blue shirt and a black vest with green trimmings, black pants and shoes, a red sash around their waist and some...interesting shoes. A head of blond medium length hair, fair skin and broad shoulders though he appeared to be the same height as Aldren.

After a few more moments of observing them as they walked they turned their head ever so slightly, he could now see their brown eyes, slight freckles around the cheeks and a larger than average nose... Kristoff Bjorgman: the man that had trespassed in his house. He remembered discharging the intruder in a less than polite manner...and if he was going to see the queen as well... Although he had no desire to engage this man a second time he decided it might be best to confront him again to make sure there wouldn't be any further... problems.

Kristoff stood on the first step of the stairs leading up to the palace and for some time fidgeted with his outfit, also taking a moment to smell his arm pits. Aldren couldn't help but chuckle and shook his head, walking up closer and announcing himself. "I see you were invited to dinner as well."

Kristoff jumped slightly, stumbling off the step and whipping around to face him. "What-who? I didn't... you."

Aldren stopped just a few feet from the ice harvester. "Me."

Kristoff cautiously stepped down from the stairs to meet him at eye level. "That's right...they said you'd be here tonight."

"Oh indeed, my actions precede me then, that's not going to be a problem is it...'Ice Master'?" he couldn't help but slightly enjoy making the man squirm.

Kristoff responded, attempting to sound more confident than before. "As long as you don't knock me to the ground and hold a sword at my throat again, then no we won't have a problem."

Aldren grimaced, walking closer till he was just a few paces from being face to face. "Strong talk, from someone who walks into other people's homes and touches their belongings without permission."

Kristoff''s face dropped and he lowered his head in shame. "Well...Yeah I guess that was...pretty stupid. I shouldn't have invaded your privacy; I was just concerned for... other people's safety...I'm sorry."

Aldren was taken aback by the man's genuineness, he could tell when a person was lying but the man before him had no such trace in his eyes. "It's...alright. I should be the one to apologize for well...threatening your life and screaming at you. I need to remember to curb my anger. It has been... a very long time since I spent time in the company of...others."

The Ice Master smiled. "It's OK, I understand what that's like...believe me I do. My names Kristoff Bjorgman by the way, Royal Ice Master and-well maybe just Kristoff." he said holding a hand out to him.

Aldren stared down at the open hand for a moment in hesitation, then he reached upward and removed his hood revealing the entirety of his face. He noticed Kristoff's brown eyes widen slightly at the sight of Aldren's crimson ones. He could have made a commented on it...but he didn't, he understood the shock.

"My name is Aldren." he said before slowly grasping Kristoff's hand and giving it a firm shake. "It is...very good to meet you, Kristoff Bjorgman."

"Just Aldren?"

Aldren nodded and Kristoff nodded back, releasing his hand. "Alright then, I'll be 'just Kristoff'."

Aldren chuckled. "So... Royal Ice Master and Deliverer? That is...quite the title I must say."

Kristoff shrugged. "Eh I didn't choose it myself but it's nice to have I guess...doesn't get me discounts at trading posts or anything."

"But I assume you hold a special place in court? Seeing as you were invited to a dinner with the queen..."

Kristoff rubbed the back of his neck and chuckled. "Well, not exactly...Elsa's sister princess Anna invited me, we're...together."

Aldren grinned. "Oh indeed?"

"Maybe you met her when you were at the palace?"

"I was not gifted the pleasure I'm afraid."

"You'll get the chance now. You'll like her, she's great...pretty much everyone loves her...including me."

Aldren smiled and the two proceeded to the doors, on their way through the main hall towards the dining room Kristoff continued their conversation. "Since you don't exactly seem like a people person-no offense, what made you decide to come?"

"The food...mostly, I haven't had much to eat for some time and well...the queen's invitation was surprisingly polite... as she seems to be."

Kristoff stopped in his tracks and raised an eyebrow questioningly. "What do you mean surprisingly?"

"You know the adage: 'Absolute power corrupts absolutely' I've met a few powerful men and women in my time... and most people with power have an inclination to lose sight of their duty to their people."

Kristoff hesitantly put his hand on his shoulder. "Well trust me when I say Elsa is nothing like that."

"Oh... And what is she like?"

Kristoff scratched his head and thought about it for a moment. "Well I haven't gotten to know her as much as Anna... but I'd say that she's selfless, caring, wise beyond her years and she'd do anything for her people...especially family. And she only uses her power for creating skating rinks and fancy decorations, never to hurt anyone... I hope that gives you a good impression of her."

"Perhaps it does..."

Kristoff gestured to the doors. "They're waiting for us...shouldn't keep them waiting."

"No... I suppose not."

As they approached the castle overseer came out to greet them, asking them to wait a moment he went back through the doors. He returned shortly after to beckon them in, as two guards opened the doors for them. They nodded and Aldren rolled his shoulders, cracked his neck and whispered quietly to himself. "Well...here we go..."

OoO

Anna put her hands together and smiled when she saw Aldren and Kristoff walk in together. After what she heard had happened earlier between the two of them, this was the last thing she'd expected to see.

Anna met Kristoff halfway, launching herself into his arms, he spun her around in a tight hug. Afterwards she gave him a quick peck on the lips and the two smiled into each other's eyes for a moment. Then they both watched as Aldren was stopped by Kai, the castle overseer, who held his hand out expectantly towards him.

She could definitely see why her sister was so interested in him, at least from a physical standpoint that is: 'Tall, dark and handsome' is the way they'd describe it she believed. But she could also see why Kristoff found him intimidating: ever watchful, piercing crimson eyes attached to a young but hardened, weary face.

Aldren untied the loop of his cloak, taking it off and folding it, placing it into Kai's hand. Anna's eyes widened at the sight of a man who looked constantly prepared for battle: in addition to the longsword he carried his leather/steel armor was fitted with sheathes for several types of knives, daggers and a small crossbow at his hip.

He was about to proceed forward when the overseer cleared his throat and two guards walked up beside. "I must ask that you relinquish your weapons, sir."

Aldren rolled his eyes and began the tedious process of removing every blade from its sheath, his crossbow from his hip handing them to the two guards and finally unclasping the belt of his longsword's scabbard. He held the sword out to Kai who grasped it but Aldren held his grip, looking Kai directly in the eye. "Do try not to lose it." He warned.

Unwavering, Kai simply smiled and responded politely. "I assure you it will be quite safe."

Aldren nodded, reluctantly releasing his hold on the sword, Kai nodded and left with the two guards. The now unarmed man proceeded onward to meet his hosts.

OoO

Elsa could see that she hadn't exactly won him over with having to surrender his sword a second time, it was understandable as he seemed very attached to it, no doubt a sword is a close companion to any warrior. But she wanted to take every precaution possible and she didn't want anyone else to feel uncomfortable.

Placing the sheathed weapon in Kai's hand he walked towards them, a small smile as he bowed first to Elsa, "Your majesty, thank you for the... invitation."

She smiled back. "You are most welcome sir, and thank you for being able to attend on such short notice, especially with what has happened."

He chuckled, shaking his head. "It was no trouble really, I- well I somewhat need the meal. And I wish to apologize for my... less than 'courtly' behavior earlier today."

"Apology accepted, I think it's safe assume you've already met Kristoff?

"Yes, on much better terms than our first interaction I might add." The two men nodding to each other.

"Then may I introduce my sister: Princess Anna of Arendelle."

Aldren turned to Anna who stepped forward and smiled. "Hi-hello-um...Good evening, Aldren right?"

Aldren bowed to her. "Yes your grace, an honor to meet you at last."

Anna laughed. "Please call me Anna, no need for 'formalities' we're all friends here...right?"

Elsa chuckled and rolled her eyes at her sister, while Aldren smiled. "Very well your gra-...Anna."

Elsa gestured towards the table. "While we are still waiting on one more attendant, perhaps it's best we go ahead and start without him."

They all made their way to the table, Elsa sat at the head with Anna and Kristoff on her left while Aldren sat in the chair closest to her on the right. Aldren looked over at the empty chair on his right side and turned back to Elsa. "So who will be joining us tonight?"

She smiled. "Oh, he'll be along shortly...he will want to introduce himself."

Soon after servants entered the room, wheeling in carts with food on them that they sat along the table. She noticed Aldren eying the roasted chicken despite his reserved posture, clearing showing a great deal of restraint. He looked at her awaiting permission, smiling she shook her head and gestured to the food with a nonverbal 'Go ahead.' Aldren nodded and grabbed a knife and began cutting into the chicken and pulling off slices at the speed of someone who was on the verge of starvation. Elsa frowned at this thought but then served herself as well, hers was a more meager meal than that of Aldren, Kristoff or Anna for that matter.

There was silence for some time as they all ate, though eventually Elsa decided to start conversation. "So tell me Aldren, what drew you to the kingdom of Arendelle?"

Aldren wiped his mouth with a napkin before speaking. "I didn't really choose...I suppose the traveler's road often times has a way of...leading you back home."

Everyone was surprised when they heard this, Elsa was first to inquire. "You're Arendellian?" he nodded.

"What hold?"

"The capital of the forge lands: Hammerhel, your grace."

Anna followed up. "Why did you leave?"

Aldren closed his eyes for a moment and replied. "It's a long story. Let's just say at the time there was...nothing for me here."

Anna nodded solemnly. "oh...OK."

Kristoff cleared his throat. "Uh... w-what about your life now, what do you do for a living?"

"...What I'm proficient at."

Elsa raised an eyebrow. "And that would be...?"

Aldren put his hands together, leaning his elbows against the table. "Well you see-"

A voice from behind startled him. "Hello."

In an instant Aldren flew out of his chair, his fist plummeting downward and colliding with the...snowman? Aldren's mouth was agape when he saw that he had punched a small snowman's carrot nose so it protruded out the back of his head. The snowman's head bobbed back and forth, his expression woozy. "Woo! Never get used to that feeling..."

Aldren shook his head, kneeling down and spoke apologetically to the snowman. "My I'm- I'm so sorry. You startled me and-"

The snowman regained his sense and smiled widely. "Oh it's alright, but could you do me a favor and put my nose back."

Aldren nodded. "Yes of course." unsure as to what the best way to do that was.

Elsa had to put a hand over her mouth to contain a laugh as she watched Olaf attempt to direct Aldren in his efforts. Olaf was very blunt so that much was easy. "Yeah just give it a little push from behind."

He pressed the carrot back to its original position and Olaf sighed in relief. "Ah OK let's start over: Hello, I'm Olaf and I like warm hugs!"

Aldren slowly nodded. "That's...very nice-oh but my name is Aldren." he offered a hand to Olaf's...twig.

Olaf shook his hand enthusiastically. "It's very nice to meet you!"

Aldren chuckled. "Likewise, again I'm very sorry about your nose."

Olaf observed himself a moment. "Thank you, and no worries, I've been through worse. Anna kicked my head off when we first met." he replied as he climbed into his chair.

Anna rubbed the back of her neck laughing nervously and rolling her eyes while Aldren appeared to be struggling to hold in a chuckle as he sat back in his chair, he turned to Elsa, gesturing between her and Olaf. "So...did you...?"

"Yes, I made him. But on accident, a good one of course; Olaf is one of my closest friends."

"Indeed...fascinating."

Elsa smiled. "Well now that we are all properly acquainted, you were saying Aldren."

Aldren's expression dropped, leaning back in his chair once more, his fingers drumming against the table. He looked between all four of them, his gaze lingering on Olaf: thinking his response through carefully, perhaps due to Olaf's childlike innocence. "Well ...I am a hunter...of sorts."

Anna curiously prodded. "A hunter... of what?"

"Whatever I am paid to hunt."

They were all more curious now...and concerned, Elsa leaned forward. "And what pray tell have you hunted in the past?"

"Monsters...though I don't think Arendelle is known for that sort of thing"

Elsa put her hands together. "...not until recently."

An air of silent intensity crowded the room, Aldren noticed this as he looked around at each of them, save for Olaf who was not really concerned and continued eating all the sweets. He sighed, leaning back in his chair. "Ah yes...the assassins...and I assume you want to know if I have any relation to their attempt on your life, yes?"

Elsa took a sip from her drink and nodded, he could sense her unease. "Your grace, I assure you I had nothing to do with the attempt on your life. If I had wanted you dead-with all due respect to your guardsmen, the assassins wouldn't have needed my help, I was in the right place at the wrong time...so to speak."

Inside Elsa was still somewhat unsettled but she kept her composure, putting her hands together. "You must understand Aldren, it seems an odd coincidence that they day you return to Arendelle is the same day a group of unknown assailants try to kill me."

He scratched his chin. "Your right, it is odd. All the same..."

"Please don't misunderstand, I am still very grateful for what you did, we all are. I did not mean to offend you."

He smiled. "You didn't. But...if that is all your grace, perhaps I should take my leave." he said, rising from his chair.

She rose from her chair. "Actually, if I could trouble you: I have a few more questions I'd like to ask you...in private."

"Perhaps...if you wish it?"

She nodded and turned to the others. "If you will excuse us."

Anna and Kristoff nodded reluctantly while Olaf gave an enthusiastic wave. Elsa invited Aldren to walk with her, holding a hand up to the guards for them to stay when they attempted to escort them. As they left Olaf reached forward and pulled the entire desert tray towards him and readied a fork and knife. He began gorging himself but looked up to see Anna and Kristoff giving him scolding looks, he frowned. "What?"

Anna watched in worry as Elsa left with Aldren, she turned to Kristoff. "I don't feel very good about them being alone together."

He sighed, leaning his elbows against the table. "I don't think we do could much about it Anna, and if he was going to hurt anyone...I think she's the only one who could stop him..."

OoO

Elsa and Aldren walked in silence for the first few moments away from the others before he decided to break the silence. "So what was it you wanted to ask away from your...council?"

"I'd have you further elaborate on the previous questions I asked of you, since you seemed hesitant to recount full details around...'younger ears'."

"Oh?"

"For example: you mentioned hunting...monsters?"

"Very well. Meaning no offense of course, I have traveled to more places that you have, seen many things and learned many things. Most of all, I learned how to fight...and how to kill. This finds me employed where my craft is needed: whether I must stalk the darkness to track down the most dangerous creatures in the world or fight on the front lines of a nations war."

"So... you are a mercenary then?"

"Yes...perhaps a very selective one though."

"Selective?"

"I don't put down rebellions when the monarchy are the ones at fault and I don't slay a nest of griffins so a baron or lord can expand lands to fill his own coffers. In some situations, I may even take the side of the latter... I sell my skills for coin but I hold to my values and I only do what I feel is necessary to complete the task."

Elsa put her hands together. "I assume that assassination is not part of your curriculum then?"

Aldren stopped in his tracks and turned sharply towards her, looking almost offended by the mere mention of that word associated with himself. "No... I don't stab my enemies in the back or plot against them in the shadows...and I don't abandon my morality for the promise of added reward."

She frowned. "I did not mean to upset you Aldren...I'm sorry."

Once again he was utterly shocked by the calm and humble nature of this queen, there were some who would have had him killed for even raising his voice slightly. But she was empathetic, gentle and she was...noble. He closed his eyes and sighed, looking back up at her with a regretting smile. "You don't need to apologize...I don't blame you for digging, you know, someone tried to kill you after all."

She smiled back, laughing slightly. "Yes that does tend to set someone on edge. However, I can say with confidence that if you had wanted me dead...we wouldn't be having this conversation."

He put his hands on his hips. "Indeed...you took quiet the gamble, allowing yourself to be alone with me in this hallway. If I were an assassin...I've had many chances-if you don't mind me saying."

The snow queen folded her arms. "I think you'd find I'm more than capable of defending myself."

"Oh I have no doubt you are capable, your grace."

She shot him a scolding look but couldn't hide her smile, they began to fall back into silence as they entered the gardens. Many different types of small statues and architecture littered the garden, surrounded by flowers rooted in the ground or contained in stone pots including the native crocus: A quaint purple flower that represented house Floran, the royal family of Arendelle.

Their pace became slower, allowing the scenery to occupy their eyes momentarily before Aldren spoke once more. "It must be said; your power over Ice, you-well you use it well...which is quite the accomplishment for an Elemental."

Elsa stopped in her tracks, eyebrow raised "Elemental?"

He put his hands behind his back, his face seemed as though he regretted using the word. "Yes, a person who controls a natural aspect of magic...you've never heard this term used before?"

She shook her head, then smiled, her eyes suddenly alight with hopeful curiosity. "You're- you're saying that there are others...like me?"

He nodded hesitantly. "There are..."

"Do you know any?"

His voice became like a whisper "Yes."

"Who? Where?"

He frowned and shook his head. "I... I really couldn't say...they'd prefer to stay hidden. I'm sure you could understand why they'd want to be on their own."

She frowned. "At one time yes, I could...but..."

He cocked his head. "What?"

She looked up at him, smiling again. "If I met another who...faced a struggle similar to my own...I'd just want to tell them that they don't have to hide anymore and that... they could learn to control their power just like I did...That they are-not-alone."

Aldren looked down at the ground. "I'm sure they'd be...relieved to hear that..."

Elsa turned her head, studying his now melancholy expression before speaking again. "I have just one more question for you Aldren... then you are free to leave."

He looked back up at her "Very well."

"You mentioned that you left Arendelle because at the time...there was nothing for you here. What did you mean by that?"

"Well...I once had family in Hammerhel but...they passed away."

"How?"

His gaze turned towards the ground, looking conflicted on whether or not to answer her. Elsa smiled as if she had perfectly read him, placing a hand on his shoulder. "Aldren, as hard as it may be for you to believe... I know what it's like to lose family."

He folded his arms as she continued. "My parents, they had sailed for the kingdom of Corona for the wedding of my cousin, Princess Rapunzel but...there was a storm and... they never came back..."

Her eyes started to tear up slightly, he broke eye contact, trying not to look at her as she told this sad tale. "I lost my parents to that storm, I didn't have any final words with them, no bodies...only the memory. I know what you've gone through..." she smiled at him even if he wasn't looking at her.

He finally looked up, first towards the sky breathing out heavy and then at her with a solemn air about him. "You have lost family, I don't doubt that...but you weren't the storm."

Her brow furrowed in confusion and Aldren's eyes widened in shock towards himself for saying that. Clearing his throat, he attempted to brush over his last words. "Well your grace, if that is all I will collect my possessions and go." He bowed, quickly walking past her to the garden's exit.

Elsa was focused on his last words she hadn't acknowledged his farewell. Suddenly her eyes widened as she came to a realization, she had to know if it was true! She turned and ran after him. "Wait Aldren, please wait!"

He looked over his shoulder when he heard her voice but turned back when he heard something land in front of him, he had little time to react as a warhammer was swung at his neck. Ducking the strike which shattered a statue next to his head, he saw the horned crimson viper helm only briefly before an iron encased foot kicked him in the chest. He managed to roll back onto one knee as the warrior charged forward to attempt to finish him off, he raised his hands preparing to defend himself.

A bolt of ice flew past his head and struck the attacker in the chest, sending him spinning backwards into the air, his head crashing into the archway of the castle entrance. There was no time to thank her as all around them more of the vicious naga dropped from the ledges and cut their way out from the foliage in the garden, their numbers were greater than before and there were no guards to assist them either. Aldren reached back to grab his sword, groaning in frustration when he realized it wasn't there instead pulling out a short metallic rod, the one thing he had held onto. He twisted it in his hand and it extended outward, a lengthy spear tip protruded from one end.

Elsa watched in awe momentarily as the small rod became a spear of solid steel, she turned her back to him facing the naga on her side as they cautiously approached. Stepping backward she jumped slightly when she felt her back bump into something. Looking over her shoulder to see Aldren doing the same, He nodded to her, she swallowed and nodded back and they turned to face their attackers.

Aldren spun his spear in front of him rapidly while Elsa gathered magic in her hands as the naga started charging forward. Her hands outstretched and she released several ice bolts at the now charging attackers, most of her shots landed but a few of her assailants managed to dodge and continue pressing their attack. As one toward her left started getting too close she raised her hand, a column of ice shot upward into their chest, sending him flying back, rupturing metal and cracking bone.

The next on her right she reached outward encasing their arms in ice, binding them to his sides. Lifting her hand and the warrior with it she threw him into two of his comrades. A slew of three more were nearly upon her, closing her eyes and focusing she conjured a construct of ice and snow that resembled a eight foot giant similar in shape to Marshmallow. The three assailants were stopped in their tracks at the sight of the creature, it bellowed and waved its arms wildly, knocking the enemies away and fighting anything else that crossed its path. Elsa breathed out, she had bought herself a small reprieve but she knew the naga warriors would not relent in their assault.

OoO

Aldren thrust his spear forward into the chest of the first assassin, ripping it out and slicing the blade across the chest of another. Spinning with the momentum of his attack he jabbed the blunt end into the helmet of a third, stunning them temporarily. A fourth enemy lunged forward, Aldren dropped down to one knee, ramming it into their gut, then raising up and allowing their momentum to carry them over his shoulder. Next he spun quickly, striking the stunned third opponent across the helm and then cutting down on the fourth's neck before he could rise from the ground.

Spinning back around he thrust into the chest of another, then swung the weapon back and forth in a wide arc making the three remaining enemies hesitate. He brought the spear up to block all three blades as they all struck at once, baring down pushing him to one knee. Mustering all his strength he gritted his teeth and pushed upward forcing them back.

When they recovered he revolved the spear rapidly in both hands advancing towards them, they backed away, unable to find an opening to attack him. When one finally swung his sword Aldren quickly swung the blade end of the spear, knocking the weapon of the attacker into the hand of another causing them to lose their sword. Whipping the spear back around he slashed across both their necks, they toppled over to the ground, gripping their wounds as they fell.

The final warrior wielded a spear and shield, letting out an enraged scream and charging him with the shield held forward. Aldren braced himself for the impact, the shield collided with the length of his spear, his feet slid against the ground as the warrior pushed him backward. They gave one last shove with the shield before swinging with their spear at his head. Ducking the blade, he leaned his shoulder into the assassin's lower stomach, the momentum of the warriors swing carried him over Aldren's shoulder as he rose up. Aldren spun round as the assassin fell off his back onto the ground, dropping to his knee with all his weight, plunging the end of his spear into their chest plate, their head rising momentarily before slamming against the ground in lifelessness.

A roar from behind alerted him to a surprise attack from another enemy, this one swung a battle ax at his neck. Aldren ducked under the blade, the warrior raised the weapon overhead and swung downward at him. Aldren side stepped the ax as the blade became embedded into the ground, he arched his leg upward and brought it down on the upper handle of the weapon, making it sink deeper into the ground. Next he struck the warrior's chest with the length of the spear causing them to stumble back and lose grip of the ax. Aldren thrust the spear through their side, a pained groan from the enemy was followed by a desperate back hand at his head, Aldren simultaneously removed the spear from their side and spun on one knee, thrusting upward through their chest. He rose to his feet as the dying warrior fell to their knees, he kicked them off his weapon and the lifeless metal shell fell to the ground.

Aldren looked up from the dead warrior at the queen who was fending off her attackers with her magic, he knew Queen Elsa could take care of herself to some degree; in fact, a small part of him believed she could beat them back. But when he glanced to the side he saw a warrior much larger than the others, clad in dark metal armor making his way towards her. He wielded a huge great sword in one hand, the thick, gleaming blade's edge was lined with rows of notched downward facing teeth, intending to use it to cleave her head from her shoulders. Aldren slipped his arm through the strap of a slain soldier's shield and bolted towards the queen to intercept her killer.

OoO

Elsa watched as the naga overtook her ice golem, it fought to the bitter end even as they cut it to pieces. A naga struck the back of the golem's leg with a two handed mace bringing it to its knees then another jumped on its back plunging a sword deep into its back. The ice beast threw its arm back, knocking the naga off. The golem gave one last defiant roar before a naga thrust its spear thru the bottom jaw, the giant fell to the ground and the crimson clad warrior flipped the weapon around in both hands stabbing down into the golem's head. The blue glow faded from the eye holes of her creation's head and the entirety of the creature crumbled into a pile of lifeless snow.

Elsa had never seen one of her ice creations...die, it sent an unwelcoming chill through her heart as her eyes couldn't help but tear up at the loss of one of her selfless defenders. She prepared herself for the enemy counter attack, just as Elsa blasted an enemy away she felt herself pushed from behind several feet away to the ground. When she looked up she only briefly saw Aldren holding a shield in front of himself, before the blade of a great sword slammed into the shield sending him flying into a statue, his body shattering the stone. As Aldren grunted, rolling across the ground, the giant warrior bypassed her entirely continuing his pursuit of Aldren.

She rose to her feet as quickly as she could, outstretching her arms to fire an attack at the armored giant's back. She was forced to recoil her arms when one of the assassins tried to sever them, barely missing, she shot ice into his chest knocking him back. The rest of the naga still standing were now focused on her, with bolstered confidence they rushed her from all sides. In response she fired ice towards the ground in all directions, taking out some and creating barriers to block others, anything at all to slow their advance.

A naga wielding two sickles quickly scaled one of her barriers and jumped down to attack her, she quickly caught him in midair with wind and threw him back over the other side. With Aldren no longer able to watch her back she wasn't sure how much longer she could hold them back, glancing over at her ally she saw that he was still up, but who she assumed was the naga leader was nearly upon him...

OoO

Aldren's vision began to focus, he rose to his feet with the aid of his spear and saw marching towards him from a short distance the huge warrior that knocked him aside, they had to be at least eight feet tall. The behemoth's armor encased their entire body, every plate looked like a scale from the hide of a giant reptilian beast, black armored skirting surrounded the thighs. The faceplate of their helmet was like the other enemies but fit a larger head, with three aesthetic spikes jutting from each wide shoulder plate, the metal at the ends of the fingers pointed like vicious claws.

Aldren shook his head, he looked at the kite shield on his arm; the metal had been bent inward and the wood behind it was splintered and broken, he was lucky the force of the blow hadn't broken his arm. Rising to his feet he reeled back, hurling what was left of the shield at the giant, the monster batted it away in mid-air with its free hand as it pressed forward undeterred like a merciless, unfeeling machine.

As the enemy came into range Aldren spun the spear behind his back, thrusting forward at the warrior's chest. The tip of the spear jabbed into the chest plate but didn't even scratch the surface, the giant smacked it away, kicking Aldren in the stomach causing him to slide backwards on his knees.

Aldren recovered and the warrior started swinging at him with the great sword, he knew better than to try and block the strikes, opting instead to dodge and duck the sword swings. The strikes were slow but being hit by any would render him in half. The massive blade cut through more stone statues, throwing about debris in the air, dust from the shattered stone stung Aldren's eyes, making them water. He spun out of the way as the giant swung downward with the sword in both hands, splitting a stone bench right down the middle.

Aldren thrust the spear again at the warrior's shoulder and again the spear grazed off the impenetrable armor. Taking advantage of his momentary imbalance the black armored giant threw a low punch at his gut causing him to double over. Again the massive warrior brought its blade down on Aldren, with no time to move out of the way he raised the spear in both hands to try and block the strike.

The sword connected with the shaft of the spear, Aldren's eyes wrenched shut and gritted his teeth hard as the force of impact pushed him to his knee and the spear shaft down into his chest, the gleaming blade cut through his leather shoulder armor and cut into the surface of his flesh. Unable to hold his stance he fell to his back, scrambling to get back to his feet he desperately thrust his spear to try and create some distance. This time the warrior stepped out of the way, grabbing Aldren's arm as he overextended and pulling him forward, ramming its knee into his stomach.

Aldren's eyes practically bulged, few could withstand the force carried by the armored giant, his own armor did little to protect him and he swore he felt the knee go all the way through to his spine. He dropped to his hands and knees coughing violently, the giant raised the great sword above its head for the final blow.

OoO

A naga swung downward at her with sword in both hands, she caught the hilt of his sword in one hand. Ice spread from her hand, freezing his hands to the sword, he screamed in pain as the ice spread across his fingers. She used her other hand to conjure her powers against the rest of them, using the naga in her grip like a shield as another attacker swung at her, with her powers she pulled the naga in her grip into the path of the attacker's sword. The blade gleamed off the other naga's helmet knocking him senseless, quickly Elsa traded places with her captive and fired a blast into the other naga.

Glancing over her shoulder, her eyes widened when she saw the naga leader ram a knee into Aldren's stomach and raised its great sword to execute him. Her heart beating even faster as the naga brought the blade down towards Aldren's back, with her free hand she quickly shot a bolt of ice at the naga's hands, knocking the sword off course. The naga reeled back, looking at its free hand; the armored fingers frozen in ice. Looking towards her, its savage growling was cut short when Aldren slammed him across the helm with his spear and began fighting him again.

She felt a sense of relief and turned back to her hostage, sending a blast of wind into his chest, the armored body flew backward landing on another fellow naga. She refocused her efforts on defending herself from the remaining enemies.

OoO

Everything was in slow motion as Aldren watched the bolt of ice fly past his field of vision and heard the giant grunt. Focusing on the energy his adrenaline granted him he whipped around, swinging the blunt end of the spear into the viper faceplate, the metal ringing from the impact.

Aldren huffed, gripping the spear in both hands; another blade extended from the other end. He lunged forward with a powerful thrust at the warrior's chest plate, it did not pierce the armor but it made them stumble back, Aldren began rapidly attacking up and down the giant's body, dodging whenever the warrior took a swing at him, stabbing, slashing, prodding at any possible weakness in the armor. But the thick plates did not give under his onslaught, even the joints seemed armored and resisted his every strike.

The giant warrior managed to sidestep, parrying the spear into the ground and backhanding Aldren with its ice encrusted hand. The force of the strike combined with the hardened ice shattering against his skull made him fall to the ground. The giant's free hand now relieved of the ice, grabbed Aldren's breast plate, the metal claws piercing the leather, raising him off the ground and then throwing him back down. He tried to roll onto his feet but could only gasp for air as the monster's metal hand gripped his neck, throwing him through the air towards queen Elsa

OoO

Just as Elsa forced two more back with a blast of wind she heard something hard land behind her followed by a violent hacking and wheezing. She turned, gasping when she saw Aldren barely able to rise off the ground, a red ribbon of blood oozing down the left side of his head down his face. She erected a wall of ice behind her to stall the naga and ran to Aldren, kneeling beside him and gripping his arm to help him up. He tried to rise with her help but yelped in pain and collapsed back to the ground, clutching his side with one hand while his other gripped his spear tightly which he had managed to keep a hold of.

Elsa put a hand on his arm while she tried to soothe the pain on his head with her other, she looked up at the naga leader who was slowly advancing toward them, heavy armored boots thumping against the earth with every step. These creatures came here to kill her but in the process they had caused harm to someone who had risked their life for her despite barely knowing her, she did not know him well either... but she did care about him and she would not let his selflessness be the death of him. Her eyes which had previously been softened with concern for Aldren were now hardened by anger, the naga leader paused in step as she glared straight into his face plate. Breathing heavily as she slowly raised her hands, poised like claws as snow and wind began swirling around her faster and faster.

Both hands thrust outward, a primal scream ripping out of her throat, as icy wind rushed out to meet the naga warrior, his armored body unable to resist the push. Tumbling backwards into statue debris until he was able to force his metal claws into the ground, the tips of his metal boots digging small trenches in the soil and stabbing the tip of his sword into the earth to anchor himself. She would have continued the push were it not for the sound of her ice wall being broken down, the naga assassins clambering over what was left. She directed her power at them now, they pushed away even easier, tumbling away like leaves.

OoO

Anna and Kristoff ran down the hall as fast as their legs could carry them, they halted in the doorway leading out to the gardens when they saw in the middle of the destroyed pottery and statues of the garden: A wounded Aldren, spear in hand with Elsa defending him from more of the red armored assassins her sister had told her about.

Anna was about to bolt towards them until Kristoff stopped her win an arm around her waist. "Anna, we can't help them! We need to get the guards."

She looked back between him and her sister and reluctantly agreed. "Ok." She hesitated to leave at first but ran with him to find help, she ran even faster than she had before.

OoO

The naga leader rose up from the ground, shaking his head and looking towards the queen, she was now distracted by his minions. He looked to his side seeing the severed half of a statue, he growled lowly, gripping the heavy chunk of stone in his hand and making his way back towards the snow queen.

OoO

Elsa's teeth gritted, as the wind flowed past her, naga who tried to rise up only succeeded in being pushed back farther as their bodies caught in the wind. She relented, turning back towards the naga leader, she gasped when she saw a stone statue flying towards her, she quickly fired a bolt of ice, shattering the stone in midair. She was forced to cover her face with her arms as debris flew past her, when she looked up to see the naga leader charging her. She only just managed to create a shield of ice around her arms, the spiked shoulder plate shattered her shield and threw her back, grunting as she hit the ground, if she had not created the shield she may have very well have been killed.

She looked up and to see the leader kick Aldren in the chest as he tried to rise off the ground, his body flying further away. The naga turned back to her, she got up to her feet but couldn't raise her arms as they were grabbed on either side by naga assassin's, their rough leather gloves gripping her arms tightly. She screamed and kicked against them but they ultimately overpowered her, forcing her to her knees, one of them grabbing her hair and pulling her head back as the leader approached and raised the great sword above his head.

OoO

Aldren punched his fist into the ground, forcing himself to stand even after having been immediately kicked in the stomach. He watched as Elsa kicked and screamed defiantly against the naga grabbing her arms, the giant approaching with his sword in hand. Aldren knew he couldn't defeat him with martial prowess alone, he knew what he had to do: what he hoped he would never have to do again but if he didn't...queen Elsa would die.

The leader rose the great sword above his head, Aldren's fist tightened as an orange glow slowly grew brighter beneath his skin. He took a deep breath, ignoring the pain and pushing off his foot with the length of his weapon aimed at the giant's side.

OoO

Without warning the naga leader's side was hit hard by the shaft of Aldren's spear, knocking the giant several feet to the side before the blade could come down the middle of Elsa's skull. Elsa's eyes wrenched shut as an orange streak arched above her head, she felt the hands around her arms loosen. She opened her eyes to see the armored bodies of the two naga at her side fall dead to the ground, a heated slash where a blade had cut straight thru their chest plates, embers floating out of the gashes of melted steel.

Looking up she saw Aldren, the tips of his spear glowing a bright orange, the fingers and wrist of his left hand the same color with embers leaking from his skin and the crimson iris's now smoldered like coals in a fiery pit. His gaze was focused on the naga leader who still stood, Aldren's face twisted into a vicious snarl as he lunged forward with his weapon poised to kill.

The naga swung the massive greatsword at him as he charged, Aldren leaned back, the blade missing him. As the naga swung back the other way with the weapon Aldren leaped into the air, spinning, as he did he thrust forward with the spear at the leader's chest. The heated tip just pierced the steel and Aldren gripped the weapon in both hands as he landed on both feet, trying to push the weapon through his foe's chest. The thick armor still held, the naga leader shoved the spear away and swung his greatsword at Aldren's head. The pyromancer ducked the massive blade and struck the back of the naga's knee, once the giant fell to one knee, Aldren fired a fireball into the side of his helm with his free hand, knocking him to the ground.

Elsa along with the remaining naga looked on in complete and utter awe, the snow queen with astonishment and the enemy with disbelief and terror. It did not take long for the crimson warriors to regain their fervor and charged at a now greater threat. Aldren wasted no time rushing them now, leaping onto one and impaling with the spear as he landed. Firing a stream of flame at three more, the force of flames throwing them back and searing them. He then tucked his spear close to his body, spinning and slashing across the side of one naga then altering his spin to attack vertically down the shoulder and chest of a second. Another charged him from behind, he thrust behind him with the other end of the spear, impaling them before they could strike.

Pulling out the spear he spun it above his head before swinging hard, an arc of flame rippled through the air from the weapon, downing most naga that were still standing. One naga that managed to survive the initial attack rose to their feet, Aldren rushed slashing across their chest with both ends of the spear before delivering the blade upward into their jaw. The groaning enemy tried to crawl away but did not get far before Aldren slammed the length of the spear down on top of them shouting loudly as he did. One final enemy struck down at him from behind, he spun out of the way as his spear retracted to the length of a dagger. Grabbing the naga's arms and violently throwing him to the ground and leaping on top of him and stabbing his chest, a wrathful shout escaping his mouth.

Yet the fight was not over: the naga leader was still standing and now appeared to be taking things much more personally. Aldren rose and faced the brute as he took several enraged thrusts and swings at him with the giant sword, he dodged every attack only raising the spear above his head to block a final heavy handed downward swing. Only Aldren didn't falter as the behemoth hoped, instead he pushed upward and fired a ball of flame into the naga leader's weapon sending it flying into the air behind him. His enemy now disarmed, Aldren shouted his war cry and sent out a torrent of flames that engulfed the brute entirely, not relenting for several seconds.

But an armored hand lunged out from the flames and snatched Aldren into the air by his throat, he gasped for air as he was lifted into the air. He was now unable to focus enough to use his powers and as the hand lifted him in the air, the flames slowly died out, Aldren's hand clawed at the giant's wrist and the dark viper helm came into view. The soft glow from the heated metal faded away and Aldren tried to stab the giant's arm but their other hand grabbed his wrist and held it away. The naga's grip tightened around his throat, soon the elemental's neck would turn to mush. But Aldren with the last of his inner strength willed his weapon to extend to full length. The spear tip met the bottom left portion of the helm near the jaw, this time the metal was unable to resist the super-heated, pristine steel. The armor was broken away from the jaw and the spear seared and burnt the flesh, leaving it blackened and hard.

The naga leader roared in pain, dropping his victim and clutching the wound on the side of his face. Shaking his head, the monster growled savagely, planting its foot in the middle of Aldren's chest before he could stand and ripping the spear away from his hands. Aldren had given all that he could and it seemed this would finally be his end as the naga leader raised the spear above his head to skewer him through the face.

But life had not finished with him yet, a bolt of blue ice struck the brute in the chest, the force of the projectile knocking the spear from his grasp and throwing him back towards the castle wall. The naga leader slammed into the stone surface, leaving large cracks in its surface, the armored shell finally fell limp to the ground against the castle. Aldren rolled onto his side, looking behind him to see queen Elsa breathing heavily and slowly lowering both of her hands.

OoO

At last the gardens were silent save for the soft crackling of flames and the labored breathing of Aldren, Elsa rose to her feet, looking at nothing but Aldren, nothing but him. He turned towards her breathing heavily, his face neutral, the blood flowing down his cheek and landing in the grass singeing the ground where it landed. And slowly the glowing heat from his body and eyes faded. He tried to take a step but winced falling to his knees, using his hand to support himself, leaning his weight against it...finally his strength was spent.

She ran to his side, putting his arm around her neck while hooking her own arm across his chest, helping him off the ground. She couldn't help but oddly enough smile, her previous suspicion had now been more than confirmed: he was like her and this made her...ecstatic, to know that she was not the only one of her kind...that she was not alone. He looked up at her with heavy eyes, his face did not share the same sentiment, looking into his eyes...she saw only grief...and shame. He looked away and began limping away from her, she frowned in confusion, following his slow escape. "Aldren... wait."

He paid no heed to her, she caught up with him. "Aldren, please wait."

He uttered Shakily. "Please Your majesty! I-I just...I need to leave... I should never have come here. I've done enough harm as is."

Elsa shook her head in disbelief "That is not true!" She reached out and grasped his arm "Aldren, you killed those monsters, you saved my life-you just did something heroic, W-why do you feel ashamed!" She yelled almost angrily.

He shouted while shrugging her off. "Because I am a Monster! Because all I can do is Kill!"

Monster...She felt great empathy and sadness at his use of the word towards himself. He winced again and clutched his side, she moved to help him again but he held his hand up to stop her, taking a moment to breathe before speaking again. "Before...before you start comparing yourself to me, know this: you and I have very little in common your grace. It should be apparent from what I told you that...I don't belong in this world...Because all I know how to do is-kill."

She stepped closer to him. "Aldren I do know what that is like, feeling like all you can do is harm, wanting to isolate yourself to protect others...I did the same when I feared my ice would hurt the people I cared about, but I was wrong!"

"But you can control whether or not you can do harm! Ice doesn't have to hurt but fire...Tell me: how does fire-how does this help anyone!?" Anger choked his voice as he held up a flaming fist, making Elsa flinch slightly. His anger faded with a heavy sigh. "You don't understand...you don't know what this curse has cost me..."

He was caught off guard when Elsa's hand wrapped around his, he almost panicked: fearing she would burn herself. But to his surprise the flames around his hand slowly dissipated until his hand was left bare, her own hand, protected by a glove of thin ice still tightly held his. "You're right: I don't understand and I may not ever know what was taken from you...I don't even know if I can help you...but I swear to you that I will try."

Releasing his hand, she stepped towards him and put her hands on both of his shoulders, sighing and looking at him eye to eye. "I know you don't fully trust me and why should you, you only just met me...but I can't stand aside and watch you punish yourself for no other crime than being what you are. If I overcame my...my overwhelming fear, my self-hatred, then I believe that you can too... Aldren, you don't have to hide...you-are-not-alone." She smiled warmly, hoping that her words had swayed him.

He looked towards the ground again and breathed out, making her frown. Smiling again, she put a hand under his chin to lift his gaze back up to meet hers. "Besides, you are too hurt to be traveling alone, I cannot in good conscience let you leave in this state. Stay...at least until you are healed...and you've heard what I have to say, I won't make you stay any longer."

He groaned in pain and frustration as he held his side tighter; his ribs were probably cracked, blood still dripped from the cut in his head and a black bruise was beginning to form, sighing he gave in and nodded.

She smiled. "Thank you...now come, you need rest."

She took his arm, draping it over her shoulders, she put one arm around his back while the other stretched across his chest and helped him walk back to the castle. She stopped when she saw Anna, Kristoff, Gillian and a contingent of guards standing in the entrance of the gardens, all were wide eyed and speechless. She guessed they had been standing there long enough to see at least some of what Aldren had done, he shifted uncomfortably at their expressions.

Anna was the first to run up to them. "Elsa-he-and the-...fire!"

Elsa replied firmly. "Anna, we will discuss this later." She turned to the guards "Help him inside."

They obeyed and she handed him off to them, she turned to Gillian and pointed to the naga warriors in the garden. "I want any survivors in chains! Especially their leader...if he's still alive."

"Yes your grace."

She turned back to follow the guards who carried Aldren, placing her hand on Aldren's back to reassure him she was still there. Anna followed suit but Kristoff stayed behind a moment and observed the destruction. "Well he did a number on the them...and the garden."

Gillian spoke to him. "Best head inside master Kristoff, we'll handle this." he nodded and returned to the palace with Anna.

OoO

The naga leader looked up from his resting place, he hissed lowly as the two elementals left his sight, entering the palace. The Arendelle guards began moving out into the garden with spears in hand, jabbing at and kicking over the bodies of his dead minions, checking for survivors. He noticed a few of his soldiers who were still alive begin to stir, he slowly rose to one knee. The ones strong enough to stand did the same, nodding to him, they bolted for the wall out of the gardens. He did not make any attempt at a quick retreat, only standing, craning his neck side to side and sheathing his greatsword. He slowly walked to the wall where the rest of his troops had already begun climbing, he was unconcerned as the humans shouted and gave chase, hurling their spears at him. They were more akin to pebbles being thrown at him as each steel tip bounced pitifully off the back of his armor.

He dug his metal claws into stone and began scaling the wall, A few of his men he heard cry out as they were struck in the back by thrown spears and fell from the wall, any that hit him continued to fall harmlessly to the ground. Once he reached the top of the wall he stopped when one of the spears struck his helm, making his head turn slightly. He looked behind him at an older man who did not wear one of the hats the others that had thrown it. The naga leader roared at him threateningly before disappearing over the other side of the wall.

OoO

Gillian was breathless, standing next to the rest of the guardsmen. He was a taken back slightly, he was considered one of the best blacksmiths in the kingdom and even he didn't know of any armor that could deflect a spear in that fashion. With surprising speed for his age Gillian ran for the wall, using the large notches left in the stone by the naga he scaled the wall and hoisted himself to the top. He watched as the naga rushed into the waters of the fjord, the leader turning back one last time to stare Gillian down.

One of the guardsmen climbed up the wall to join him, nearly falling off, he straightened his hat. "Should I assemble the rest of the guards to pursue them?"

Gillian shook his head. "No."

The guard blinked disbelievingly. "Shouldn't we try to catch him?"

Gillian looked at the guard and chuckled dryly. "And what would we do with him when we did?"

They both looked back to see the naga leader turn and calmly walk into the fjord, disappearing beneath the water's surface. The old man scratched his bearded chin. "Well...he's a big one."

OoO

The naga leader led what was left of his of soldiers out of the other side of the fjord and into the forest: eight...eight out of 50 were left. He growled and hefted his sword onto his shoulder, the metal of his helm was broken away from the left side of the jaw exposing the burnt skin and bottom corner of his mouth. They walked on for several hours before finally arriving at their hidden forward camp in the forest. Two guards wielding spear and shield confronted him but quickly resumed salute when they saw him, he walked past them towards a large tent in the center of their war camp. There were many others of his kind: drilling, sharpening blades, patrolling the camp but they all stood at attention as he passed through.

He entered the tent, walked inside the large space and passed his sword into his other hand, the tip of the blade pressing into the ground as he knelt down in front of a crystalline pad in the middle of the room. From the pad below him a black, shadowy substance seeped out and gathering in a coiling, fibrous mass in front of him; the smoke took shape into a masked helm much like the one he wore but the metal around the edges took the form of a frill of lengthy horns.

The Visage spoke in a deep, echoed voice that seemed to be followed by the whisper of softer voices of different origin behind it. "General Tarn...it would appear that your task is not complete...but I sense that in light of this defeat, there is another force at work interfering in our affairs."

General Tarn nodded. "Yes my liege, the queen's death was within reach but...there was another." The visage of the shadowy helm remained silent before Tarn continued "This one...wielded fire...but if we attacked again soon, we could take them by surprise, they are wounded-"

"One failure to assassinate an elemental is at times...to be expected, but twice and by the hand of another elemental is...more than concerning. This changes everything."

Tarn hung his head and gripped his sword as his master continued. "This development has upset the course of our ultimate goal, for now withdraw your remaining forces to the Nordsoen gulf and prepare for my arrival. I will be joining you...soon."

The general nodded. "So it shall be done... my lord."

The visage faded and the black substance oozed back into the pad below him. The naga general rose to his feet, placing a hand over his seared flesh on his left jaw, growling softly and tightening his grip on the sword. At that moment thinking of nothing else but taking the life of the one who had given him this scar...