Author's note: So this chapter was surprisingly difficult. I think it turned out okay though. I hope you enjoy it!
Disclaimer: So not mine.
Chapter Twenty One
Elsa climbed carefully from her bed; she didn't want to wake her bedmate. Liam was sound asleep, with the occasional light snore. She didn't mind; in fact, she thought it was rather endearing. They'd fallen asleep wrapped up in one another, whispering plans for the future. Elsa didn't know her heart could feel so full, warm and joyful, but seeing the ring on her finger, knowing that she and Liam had a future together...she was finally content.
She padded around the still dark room; the thick drapes were closed against prying eyes. Very few people knew that Liam was spending the night in her bed; she wanted to keep it that way until she could announce her engagement to the Council. After that, what she did was her business.
She dressed silently without magic; it was a task she'd perfected in the years prior. It was how she'd spent the majority of her days, locked in her room, making very little noise. She didn't like to draw attention to herself. Once she braided her hair, she slipped from the room, closing the door quietly. She hoped to be back before Liam woke up; there was something she wanted to do, something she'd been putting off for far too long.
She waved off the guards at the end of the corridor; she didn't need their salutes this early in the morning. She hurried down one flight of stairs, then another, as the palace slowly began to come to life around her.
"Elsa?"
She spun, startled. "Who's there?"
Anna stepped out of the shadows. "Um, hi?"
Elsa breathed. "What are you doing up so early?"
"I could ask you the same question."
Elsa glared at her sister, but it held no real bite. "And I'm the Queen," she reminded Anna.
To Elsa's surprise, Anna blushed. "Honestly?" Elsa nodded, intrigued. Anna twisted her fingers together. "I, uh, didn't go to bed last night. Kristoff and I fell asleep in the library, reading a book." Elsa blinked, taken aback. She had meant to talk to Anna more about Kristoff; she was curious how serious their relationship was. It seemed to be very serious indeed. Anna held up her hands. "I swear. I think I drooled on his shoulder."
Elsa laughed. "You think?"
"It was dark and we realized we should probably get to our own rooms...before anyone found us. Which seems to have backfired in my case. Are you mad?"
Elsa frowned. "Why would I be mad?"
"Well, the last time I spent time with a man you froze the entire kingdom."
"Anna...are you happy?" Anna nodded fervently. "Then I am happy for you. Kristoff is...he seems like a very good person."
"He's taking baths and everything now," Anna chirped nervously.
"Baths?"
"Growing up with rock trolls?"
"Ah. Yes. Well..."
Anna frowned, then poked Elsa in the shoulder. "Hey! Why are you even awake? Where's Liam? He was so nervous about asking you to..." She abruptly clapped her hand over her mouth, almost giving away the secret. If it was still a secret, which Anna wasn't sure about.
Elsa laughed in spite of herself. She gently grabbed Anna by the shoulders. "It's alright, Anna. He's still asleep. And I said yes."
Anna screeched and hugged Elsa tightly. "I knew it! I knew it! Oh, I'm so happy for you both!"
"It seems he had a little help?"
Anna nodded. "He was so nervous. He asked Emma and I to help. Did you love it? Was it romantic? Oh, tell me everything!"
Elsa considered that for a moment. It was still very early; the sun was just starting to peek through the curtains. She needed to get back before Liam woke up. "Would you like to come with me? We can talk on the way."
"Of course!" Anna linked their arms together; Elsa smiled. They hadn't done this since they were very little girls. "Where are we going?"
"I wanted to visit Mama and Papa."
Anna found her hand and squeezed. "That's a wonderful idea." They moved through the corridors and out into the gardens; the family plot was a short walk from the palace, overlooking the fjord. Elsa related all the details she could about her engagement; Anna was a very enthusiastic audience. She couldn't describe how amazing it was to be a sister again, after so many years being isolated.
They found the two large stones near the edge of the field; they were only a memorial to the lost king and queen. Their names were delicately carved into the slabs, followed by beloved mother and beloved father. Only the crowns near the pointed tops indicated that their royal status.
The sisters stood there quietly, hands clasped together. Elsa chewed on her lip, her emotions all tangled up. She still loved her parents; of course she did. But she needed to let go of her anger; she was preparing to start a new life with her Captain. She took a deep breath and let go of Anna's hand. Elsa stepped up to the stones and conjured some blooms made entirely of ice. She laid a bunch in front of each stone, kneeling in the soft grass.
"I forgive you," she whispered softly. "I know you were trying to protect me. But I understand now. And I'm happy." Tears welled in her eyes; Anna was at her side in an instant, arm around her shoulders. "I'm getting married, Mama, Papa. I found someone who loves me exactly as I am; I wish you were still here to meet him. But I promise to be a good Queen and to take care of Anna. I miss you." She laid a hand on her mother's stone; the knowledge that she'd never get to touch them again, after spending so much time being so, so afraid, broke her heart. She turned to Anna, crying into her sister's shoulder. Anna cried too, a long cleansing cry. Two sisters sharing their grief.
They stayed until well after sunrise, then quietly made their way back to the palace, hand in hand.
Emma tried to stretch out but came up short by the dull ache in her belly. She was only halfway through her monthly time; her favorite treatment from the night before had clearly worn off. She groaned and curled in on herself, debating whether or not to try for the chamber pot. They'd decided to stay in her bed; Killian wanted her to be as comfortable as possible, silly doting man. Still, Emma couldn't help but soak in the attention; she didn't know what would happen when they returned to Misthaven. Her parents (well, Snow) may have given their blessing to her engagement, but that didn't mean they would get to be this intimate.
Emma was definitely going to push for a short engagement. She wanted to marry her lieutenant. Very soon.
"Emma?"
"Go back to sleep."
Killian curled up behind her back, his hand skimming over her bare stomach. "Aching?" he asked groggily.
She pressed his hand to her skin. "A little. It'll pass."
"Let me take care of you."
Emma huffed. He'd been taking care of her for two days. Very attentively. The discovery that orgasms caused her cramps to almost disappear for long stretches was heady. It meant they didn't need to stop indulging in their desire for one another. And Killian relished making her feel better. In ways she'd never dreamed possible. "Killian..."
"What?" She felt his warm lips on her skin. "You're irresistible."
"You're enjoying it?" she asked skeptically.
"Why wouldn't I enjoy it? It's only getting better, don't you think?"
She shivered as he gently bit down on her shoulder. "Ohhhh."
"That's it." His hand slid up, cupping her heavy breast. The nipple hardened as he flicked it with his thumb, sending a jolt of heat down her core. "I will never tire of touching you."
Emma sighed and arched, trying to get more. "We're gonna...gods...need another towel," she breathed.
"Soon," he mumbled into her skin. "Just let me touch you." He nudged his leg between her thighs, letting her grind into him. For the moment, her underwear and linen covered her, but it was all she wore. Killian was nude behind her, pressed against her back, his warmth soaking into her body under the covers. She reached back blindly, fingers seeking his thick dark hair; her body bowed against him, little mewls of need spilling from her lips. Killian moaned, his cock swelling against her ass. He loved her like this, giving in to her desire, simply allowing herself to feel. He rolled and pinched her nipples, urging her to move, to chase her high.
"Oh, oh, oh," she breathed. "Killian...fuck, I want you inside me!"
"Soon, darling," he purred in her ear. He thrust lightly against her. "Feel what you do to me, Emma, how badly I need you. But I need you to come for me." He licked the sensitive spot below her ear, one hand abandoning her breast and slipping into her underwear. She was so far gone in her lust that she didn't even try to stop him. She shuddered when his fingers brushed her clit."Fuck, you're so wet, feels amazing when I'm in you. Like there nothing else in the world but us."
Emma bit her lip, rolling her hips, turned on by his voice in her ear. "Close, gods, I'm so close!"
Killian unceremoniously pushed three fingers to her her heat, growling. "Come, Emma. Come."
She bucked against his hand, her body awash in bliss. Unintelligible sounds tumbled from her lips as she rode it out, his clever fingers making her quiver with aftershocks. Emma sagged against him, breathing hard, simply stunned at the lengths he would go to to please her. She whimpered when he left her, her cheeks flaming. She couldn't look at him; she felt the bed dip, Killian probably headed to the washbasin.
Killian did wash his hands, drying them on a towel. Then he snatched up two more and brought them to the bed. He laid one out on the sheet, coaxing Emma to lay on top of it. She still wouldn't look at him, so he started to tease her, kissing up her long bare legs. "Emma."
She could feel her body coming to life again, her yearning for him never truly sated. "Hmmm?"
"Look at me, love."
She opened her eyes reluctantly; Killian knelt between her spread legs. He didn't look the least be put off by her. In fact, his cock stood at attention, ready for her. "Hi."
"There's my princess," he said with a smirk. "Feeling better?"
She touched her belly. "A bit."
Killian ran his hands over her skin. "Perhaps you need more?"
She shivered, covering his hands with hers. She moved them to breasts, but then abruptly moved to her knees. She wanted to touch him too. "Are you a doctor, lieutenant?" she asked, letting go of her lingering embarrassment. There was nothing wrong with what they were doing. His hands stayed on her breasts, kneading and stroking. She ran her hands down his chest, nails raking through his chest hair. She loved how hairy he was, the way it tickled and rubbed her skin.
"I'm not," he said softly, pleased she back with him. "But I'd like to help."
Emma ghosted her lips over his. "And just what do you think you can do for me, lieutenant?"
He swallowed a moan when her fingers curled around his cock. "Ease your pain?"
She kissed along his scruffy jaw. "And just how would you do that?"
He gripped her shoulder for balance; she could feel him shaking. "I'd make you feel good, princess," he replied, voice cracking. "Use me in any way you wanted. Make you come."
Emma groaned, pulling a little harder on his cock. Her core was wet and aching; she needed him to fill her. She kissed him hard, crushing her mouth to his. He pulled her close, chests flush, battling for control of the kiss. Emma refused to give it to him, nipping sharply on his bottom lip. She pushed him on his back and he fell with a whoosh. Emma kissed and licked her way down his chest, leaving a trail of lovebites in her wake. She licked the V of his hips as he pushed up in vain, trying to get her to touch him. She ignored him, sucking a prominent mark into his hip.
"Emma. Fuck, love, please."
"Please what?"
"Suck me, ride me, I don't care! Need you so much," he panted.
"Hmm, like this?" she asked, lowering her head and licking along the fat vein of his cock.
"Yes!"
Emma hummed, enthusiastically taking up the task. She played with him, swirling her tongue around the engorged head, while she stroked with her hand. Killian reached down to pull her hair away from her face, mesmerized by his princess's mouth. She paid special attention to the sensitive spot just below the head, flicking it with her tongue. Killian jerked, a low curse tumbling from his lips. It had been some time since she'd done this for him, but as much as he loved it, he needed to be in her.
"Emma...gods...you have to...stop, lass."
"But I was having fun."
"Don't want to come like that," he breathed. "Want to feel you...in you. Ride me, princess. So gorgeous when you ride me."
"Won't it be messy?" They hadn't done that since her courses arrived.
"Don't care. Please, Emma." She debated for only a second before shimmying out of her underwear. She tossed them to the floor and re positioned the towel under him before moving to straddle his lap. He hissed when she brushed his cock; Emma smiled mischievously and ground down onto it. It was a terrible tease for both of them but it was worth it. Slowly, she guided him in, sighing in relief as he filled her.
"Fuck." Killian rested his hands on her hips; she felt so fucking good, tight and hot. He rolled his own hips up, not really waiting for her to adjust. Emma moaned, feeling him shift inside her. She moved with him, rising up slowly before sinking back down. They found a rhythm, steady and deep, neither in a hurry. He raked his eyes over her nude form, skin flushed, breasts bouncing, lips parted. Killian planted his feet on the bed and used the leverage to drive up as she sank down, earning him a low cry. The angle shifted and Emma mewled, increasing her pace.
"That's it, princess," he breathed, hands holding her steady as she rode him. "You are so fucking beautiful."
Emma brought her hands to her breasts, fondling them, nipples hardening under her touch. Waves of desire rolled through her, her clit throbbing. "Touch me," she pleaded. "Need to come."
Killian slid one hand to where they were joined, vigorously rubbing her slick clit. Emma's rhythm faltered, hips almost slamming into his. Her orgasm rippled out from her core, her body shuddering above him. Killian didn't hesitate; he flipped them over and pinned her hands above her head, thrusting deep. Emma cried out, urging him on, his thrusts drawing out her high. He grunted something that sounded like her name as he fell at last, spilling his seed deep inside her body. Emma caught him as he collapsed on top of her, losing what air was left in her lungs. She stroked his sweaty back, lips caressing his temple. She felt amazing, sated and happy.
Eventually, Killian rolled them onto their sides, reaching blindly for the other towel. He laid it over their hips, still too tired to really clean them up. If he was watching the sun correctly (hard to tell from his position on the bed), it would be another hour until their bath arrived.
"Love?"
"Hmm?"
"Better now?"
She smiled lazily. "Yes, lieutenant. I feel wonderful."
"I'm happy to hear it."
She laughed. "Do you it'll always be like this?"
"Well, now that we've made this discovery..."
She swatted his chest. "You know what I mean. Us."
He pulled her close, kissing the crown of her head. "Aye, I think we will. Waking up next to you...it's like falling in love all over again."
Emma kissed his chest, right over his heart. She understood what he meant. "I wonder how things will be we get home?"
Killian ran his fingertips over her skin. "I'm not sure I follow, love."
"Well, I have a feeling my parents might not want us like...this." She traced patterns over his bare skin. "At least not until the wedding. We might have to be sneaky."
"Sneaky? Still trying to corrupt me, princess?"
"I haven't already?"
He laughed. "Oh yes, lass. Very willingly, I might add." He kissed her, pressing her into the mattress. "There's nothing I wouldn't do to be with you, Emma. If you wanted me."
"Like sneak into my rooms?"
He pretended to look skeptical. "Isn't that dangerous?" he said innocently.
She shrugged. "Well, if you think you can..."
"I very well can!" He tackled her to the bed and started tickling her mercilessly. Emma screeched and tried to scramble away, giggles tumbling from her lips. They got twisted in the sheets, laughing until neither could breathe. Emma managed to disentangle herself and find a few rags to clean them up. After, she got some clean underwear and linens then joined him back in the bed. He'd tossed the used towels into the laundry and welcomed her into his waiting arms. They wound up dozing until the maids arrived with their bath (Killian once again hiding in his room, stubborn man).
"How do you think it went last night?" Emma asked on their way to breakfast.
Killian slipped his arm around her waist. "I think it went well. I'm sure we'll be hearing the good news momentarily."
Emma squeezed his waist. "I just want then to be as happy as we are."
He kissed her temple. "I'm sure they are."
Unfortunately, Kristoff was the only person in the dining room when they arrived. Emma frowned, concerned. Elsa and Liam always got there first. In fact, Elsa liked to tease her about it, joking about what kept her in bed so long.
"Late night, Kristoff?" Killian asked.
Emma swore the big man blushed. "Something like that. Have either of you seen Anna?"
They both shook their heads. Emma hoped nothing was wrong.
Liam woke up, stretching out his tall frame in the huge bed. He reached out for Elsa and found nothing but cold sheets. He blinked open his eyes, frowning. "Elsa?" he called, his voice raspy. No answer. He pulled back the hangings and peered through the light; it hurt his eyes. Where was she? He thought today of all days he'd wake up with her in his arms. Grumbling, he moved to find his trousers, intending to look for her. Perhaps she'd gone down to breakfast. He hoped it was that and not something worse.
He was buttoning his shirt when the door opened. Elsa ducked inside, trying to look stealthy. She found him standing in the middle of the room, half dressed. "Oh."
Liam took in her slightly puffy eyes, his consternation died in his throat. "Elsa? What's wrong, love?"
She stepped into his arms, laying her head on his broad chest. "I meant to be back before you woke up. I'm sorry."
He felt her sigh in his arms. He held her tighter. "It's fine. You're here now."
"I didn't mean to worry you."
"That obvious?"
She smiled into his chest. "I don't mind."
Liam rubbed her back. "Would you like to talk about it?
"Come, let's sit." She took his hand and guided him to her favorite chair. She didn't hesitate to settle in his lap, her skirts draped over Liam's knees. He brushed a kiss to her brow and waited for her to speak. Elsa threaded her fingers through his, appreciating how warm he was. "I went to visit my parents' graves," she said quietly. "Anna...I ran into her on the way. She went with me." She looked at him. "I wanted to tell them first...I hadn't been able to go there, until now."
He tried not to feel hurt that she hadn't included him, but he understood her. "Are you okay?"
She nodded. "I wanted...I want to take you there," she explained. "I just thought...the first time...I thought I wanted to be alone? But then Anna was there..."
Liam cupped her cheek. "You needed that time with your sister," he finished. "I can definitely understand that."
She smiled, tears stinging her eyes. "Thank you."
He kissed her tears away. "Of course, lass." His kiss moved to her lips. "I love you, Elsa."
She cupped his cheeks, kissing him more firmly. "I love you, too, Liam. Thank you for understanding."
"I did miss you when I woke up."
"I didn't think I'd be there that long." She snuggled into his shoulder. "I missed you too." Being here with him restored her equilibrium. "So much."
He stroked her back. "So this means you still want to marry me?" he teased.
She laughed softly. "Of course, silly." She kissed his chest. "I wouldn't change my mind overnight."
"I'm afraid I'm still a bit new at this romance lark, love."
"And I'm not?"
Liam laughed. "We'll just have to find our way through together."
"Together," she agreed. She found his lips, her kiss sweet, hoping to convey all she felt for him. Liam sighed and deepened the kiss, tongue sliding past her lips. Elsa moaned, trying to adjust her seat, but she was thwarted by her skirts. Liam's kiss made her heart race. She carded her fingers through his hair, tugging lightly on the strands. His groan rumbled in his chest, making her shiver. "Too many clothes."
"Elsa...lass...the others are expecting us."
She kissed over his scruffy jaw. "So?"
"So...I want to tell everyone that the Queen of Arendelle is going be my wife," he said, squeezing her waist.
"You don't want me?" she teased.
He pushed her hand between them, grazing the bulge in his trousers. "I always want you, Elsa. But we still have a few days before I can have you." He kissed down her throat. "It's killing me to not make love to you."
Elsa shivered, really shivered. She wanted that too, so much. "I've never felt like this," she admitted, her yearning for him a living thing under her skin. It was akin to her magic, buzzing just under the surface.
"Nor I, my queen."
She looked at him. "How?" She wasn't naive. She knew he had more experience than she did. That he'd had lovers before her. She tried not to think about it; she knew she was the first woman he truly loved.
Liam undid her hair, carding his fingers through the white blonde strands. She purred, leaning into him. "Elsa, please believe me when I say that the things I feel for you...when we're together...I've never felt this before. Because it's you. Does that make sense?"
"I think so."
"Love, you are all I want. We'll have the whole rest of our lives together."
She rested her forehead on his. "Just come back to me soon so we can start it, okay?"
"I promise." He sealed his promise with a chaste kiss. "Ready for breakfast?"
"If you insist, Captain."
It took then another fifteen minutes to leave the room; Elsa didn't want to leave his arms. The morning had taken a lot out of her. With Liam, she felt safe. They held hands as they made their way to the dining room; to Elsa's embarrassment, the others were already there. Liam just smiled at her, an arm snaking around her waist.
"Morning, everyone."
Four heads turned to look at them; Killian and Emma didn't bother to hide their grins. "Morning, brother. Have a good night?" Killian asked.
Liam grinned too. "Does Elsa agreeing to marry me count?"
"Aye, I'd say it does." Anna and Kristoff hung back as Emma and Killian jumped up and hugged them. "I'm pleased to have you as a sister," Killian said to Elsa. "He's very happy."
"That's all I want," Elsa said earnestly. "To make him happy."
"You already do, lass."
"I told you it would be alright," Emma said to Liam.
"So you did, highness...Emma," he corrected. "Thank you for all your help."
"Isn't that what sisters are for?"
"We should celebrate!" Anna said, finally stepping forward to hug Liam.
"Isn't that what the party is for?" Kristoff asked. He shook Liam's hand, but only nodded at Elsa. She still intimidated him.
"Well, it is..." Elsa began.
"But Emma, Killian and I will be leaving soon after," Liam reminded her. "Perhaps..." He looked at Killian. "Is the Jewel ready for her shakedown cruise, brother?"
Killian nodded, catching on. "I believe so. All the repairs are complete. The crew is merely awaiting your orders to begin loading the perishables."
"What do you think, love? Fancy a cruise out into the sound? Perhaps sail up one of the fjords?"
"Can we do that?" Elsa asked.
"I am the Captain," he replied with a wink.
Elsa suppressed a grin. So few people got to see his playful side. "It's a date."
Emma stood at the rail, the wind whipping her hair around her face. She'd missed this during their weeks on dry land. Killian was off giving Anna a tour of the ship; Elsa was with Liam, not that Emma blamed her. She and Killian were the same after they got engaged. It was an intoxicating feeling, knowing who you were going to spend the rest of your life with. She was thrilled for them.
The Jewel of the Realm cleared the entrance to the sound; there was nothing in front of them but blue skies and clear water. Emma turned and looked back; Elsa's kingdom stretched out like a painting, mostly blues and greens and grays, mist and snow on the mountains in the distance. She couldn't help but remember that Hans was being kept prisoner in those mountains.
Earlier, as they waited for the ship to be readied, one of Elsa's Councilors brought her a report on the expedition. The rain they'd had a few days ago had apparently slowed the pace to a crawl; rain turning to snow and sleet in the mountains. The castle at Rana set a missive to inform her that Tofte's party still had not arrived. It was worrying but there wasn't much any of them could do. Elsa asked to be kept informed, then decided to keep their plans in place.
"Emma?"
She smiled at Killian's voice. "Hello, Lieutenant."
He tried to look stern but failed. "Why are you out here all alone?"
"I'm the last person who needs a tour of this ship. And would you want to interrupt the newly engaged couple?"
He closed the distance between them and hugged her into his side. "Good point."
"I missed the smell of the sea," she admitted, turning them toward the open ocean. The ship was tacking toward one of the nearby fjords; they could hear the waves crashing into the hull. "It's peaceful out here."
Killian tightened his hold on her; gods, he loved her. This was her first real trip away from home and it seemed she'd fallen in love with the sea, as well as him. "We'll be going home soon, love. Two weeks at sea."
She laid her head on his shoulder. "Hmm, I can't wait."
"Truly?"
"I've loved our time here. And I will miss Elsa and Anna. But I want to go home. I want to introduce you to my parents. Most of all, I want to be your wife and go on that honeymoon you promised."
"So what you really want is us alone on a ship like this?" he teased.
"I fell in love with a sailor. Where else would I want to be?"
He tipped her chin up to kiss her. Emma sighed into his kiss, fingers curling around the lapels of his uniform jacket. "I can't tell you how much that means to me, Emma. How much you mean to me."
"Well, if it's as much as you mean to me, then I think we'll be fine."
"I'd wager it's a good deal more, lass." He dipped to kiss her again, fingers tangling in her windswept hair.
"Your crew can see us," Emma pointed out, hand smoothing over his chest.
"Let them see," he growled, kissing her harder. Emma responded in kind, caught up in the moment. When they broke apart, several of the crew were staring, looking away with sly grins when she caught them. She blushed in spite of herself, hugging him. "Love? Why so shy?"
She shrugged. "I don't know."
He laughed. "Come now. Let's find the others, yeah?"
"Good idea." It was an odd feeling, knowing people were watching them. They'd spent so many weeks avoiding being overly affectionate in public, often at Killian's insistence. But this was the crew of the Jewel. If they didn't trust them, then who could they trust?
They found the others up at the helm. "Good of you to join us," Liam drawled, his own arm secure around Elsa.
Killian just glared. "Stuff it, brother."
"Merely teasing, Lieutenant." He looked down at Elsa. "It's not like it's a secret."
"So where are we headed?" Emma asked.
"I thought just up there, lass," Liam said, pointing. "It looks deep enough for some distance. We brought some things for a picnic along the shore."
"You did?" Elsa asked, surprised.
"You don't want to celebrate?"
"Well, yes. I just thought we'd stay on the ship?"
"Where's the fun in that?" Liam kissed her temple. "An afternoon away from the palace. Is that okay?"
Elsa smiled. "I think I'd like that."
"Where's Anna?" Emma asked.
"She wanted to climb up to the crow's nest. Kristoff went with her."
"Probably a good idea," Killian said with a chuckle.
"Enjoying yourself?" Liam said to Elsa.
She nodded. "This is amazing."
"Someday we'll take a real trip, love. This just a taste."
"Is it always this windy?"
Liam laughed. "Well, if it wasn't, we'd still be stuck in the dock."
"Just remind me to secure my hair, next time," she laughed, running her fingers through slightly tangled tresses.
The men left the ladies on their own while they took care of some of their duties. Elsa was stunned to see how much went into the running of the ship; Emma provided her with a running commentary, pointing out how they maneuvered the ship. She got to see more of the ship, Emma's quarters, some of the crew quarters the galley. They came back on deck when Liam announced they had found a good spot for their picnic.
The boys helped their ladies into a couple of the row boats, rowed ashore by a few of the crew. It was a lovely spot Liam had chosen, a small grassy plain on the edge of the fjord. Mountains rose high on either side; it was very secluded and gorgeous.
"Careful," Liam warned, helping Elsa from the boat. She grinned at him and waved her hand, forming an icy staircase for herself. He laughed, following in her footsteps.
"That's handy," Killian commented, taking Emma's elbow.
"Maybe," Emma said. "But this is better." She waved her hand and teleported them to the middle of the glade. It felt good to be herself, magic and all.
"Some of us have to do this the old fashioned way," Anna observed with a grin, her boots splashing in the surf. But she didn't seem to mind; Kristoff was at her side, carrying a huge basket.
The six of them laid out blankets and food as the boats rowed back to the Jewel. Liam would signal when they were ready to go back. According to the sun, it was early afternoon, so he hoped that wouldn't be for some hours yet. He wanted to spend as much time with Elsa as he could. In less than a week, he'd have to leave her, if only for a little while. Still, he knew he'd be leaving his heart in Elsa's care until he returned.
Elsa's magic kept everything fresh; they enjoyed fresh fruit, Anna's favorite sandwiches, dizzyingly sweet cakes and tarts. No one had to worry about beverages getting warm, as Elsa could chill them with touch of her finger. Liam, Anna and Emma shared prideful glances, recognizing how far Elsa had come in controlling her powers. Killian stayed close to Emma, subtly rubbing her lower back, easing her mild cramps. Kristoff told more stories about being raised by trolls; the others were surprised that he didn't remember who his parents were. He'd found the trolls in the forest when he was only about five years old, he and a young Sven. For once, Anna was quiet, leaning back on his broad chest.
Emma observed them with a knowing grin; any idiot could see how in love they were.
"Do you think we look like that?" she whispered to Killian.
"Like what?"
"Kristoff and Anna."
Killian looked. "Most likely. I never was very good at hiding how I felt about you, princess."
"I wouldn't say that," Emma argued. "I didn't know how you felt for a while."
He rubbed slow circles into her back. "Hmm, should I remind you, lass?"
"Please do."
He smiled and pressed a chaste kiss to her lips. "Later, love. Is this helping?"
"Yeah. Thank you."
"Simply carrying out my duties, highness." She laughed and copied Anna, her head on his chest. It was so peaceful out here and he was warm. It didn't take long for the steady thump of his heart to lull her to sleep.
"Maybe we should take a walk?" Elsa said quietly, smiling at her sleeping friend.
"Good idea," Liam said. He and Elsa headed off in one direction with Kristoff and Anna headed in another. Liam held Elsa's hand in his, sometimes helping her over the occasional rock or tree root.
"If we're going to be doing this a lot," Elsa observed, "I'm going to need better boots."
Liam grinned. "Planning on being out and about, my queen?"
She nodded. "I've been caged for far too long." She looked around; all of this was a part of her kingdom. It made her sad, knowing how little she knew about it. Her mother had trusted no one but herself with Elsa's lessons, but Elsa was beginning to realize just how unprepared she was to be Queen. Of course, her parents hadn't intended for her to be Queen so young.
"I think that's an excellent idea, love," Liam said, squeezing her hand. "Your people should see you."
"Still sure you want to get involved in all this?" Elsa teased. "Marry a reigning queen?"
"Elsa, there is no place else I would rather be." He backed her into a tree; her hands rested on his chest. She smiled up at him, drinking in his handsome features. Feeling bold, she stood up on her toes and brushed her lips over his. He cupped the back of her head, angling his for another, deeper kiss. Elsa's hands slid under his uniform jacket, holding him close to her.
They kissed until air was a necessity; Liam pressed his forehead to hers. "Should we go back?"
"No, I think we're good right here." She traced the apple of his cheek and wound her fingers into his hair, tugging him down for another round of kisses.
"Your sister seems happy," Kristoff said, jumping down from a boulder. As they got deeper into the forest, they bumped into the foot of the mountain. It felt like home to Kristoff; he was still adjusting to living in the palace. In truth, he didn't think he belonged, but he couldn't bring himself to leave Anna. And Sven seemed to like having a roof over his head every night.
"I think it's great," Anna said, following Kristoff. "Liam's good for her."
"Let's hope so," Kristoff said darkly.
Anna frowned. "Kristoff, you don't still think Elsa doesn't like you? Because I'm pretty sure she does."
Kristoff scoffed. "Who's worried?"
Anna looped her arm through his. "You are. You really shouldn't be. Elsa just needs to get to know you better."
"How do you know that?"
"Because we might have talked about you this morning?"
"And you're just telling me this now?"
Anna poked him in the chest. "It was all good things, I promise. I went with her to our parents' graves. Well, their gravestones, since there's nothing in the graves."
Kristoff drew them to a stop. "Are you okay?"
Anna smiled. "Yeah. I mean, I still miss them. But it was good to finally be there with Elsa." She hugged Kristoff, the top of her head barely reaching his chin. He pressed a featherlight kiss to the crown of her auburn hair. Anna sighed; it was so easy with Kristoff. And even easier, knowing Elsa was just as happy as she was.
"Well, well, well, if it isn't Anna and her blockhead of a beau," an all too familiar voice said with a maniacal laugh.
Anna tried to spin around, a terrible chill racing down her spine. But Kristoff pushed her firmly behind him. "You."
Hans looked terrible; his clothes torn and dirty, his hair a mess, matted with twigs and leaves. He looked like he'd been living rough for days. Anna noticed blood on his coat. He followed her gaze. "As much as you might wish it, this isn't mine. You see the guard was most reluctant to relinquish this." He brandished a sword; dried blood covered the blade. Anna recognized the hilt as belonging to the palace guards. She narrowed her eyes at Hans, trying to push past Kristoff.
"Let me through," she growled.
"Anna," Kristoff bit out. "Stay there." He was cursing the fact that he hadn't brought his ax with him, but he had to protect Anna. He was sure that Hans wouldn't hesitate to kill them both. He had that dangerous mad look in his eyes.
"Just what do you think you can do, ice man?" Hans asked. "I've got the sword."
Kristoff snarled and rushed him, dodging the sharp sword. His shoulder barreled into Hans, knocking them both to the ground. Anna screamed for help, praying the others would hear them. She looked around for a weapon and snatched up a heavy fallen branch. It was almost as long as her arm but she managed. Hans and Kristoff wrestled on the ground; Anna looked for an opening, hoping to knock Hans out. She didn't know where he'd come from, but that was the least of their problems.
Elsa and Liam heard Anna scream, promptly dashing off in that direction. It was hard going through the forest; Elsa cursing every time her skirts impeded her. Liam had never heard her speak that way; it was a testament to how frightened she was. He wasn't much better, furious at himself for not being there. They ran into Emma and Killian, both with swords drawn.
"What is it?" Emma asked, fear making her voice shake.
"No idea. Hurry!" Anna screamed again and they ran, the men leading the way. Emma and Elsa almost ran into them, the Jones brothers coming up short. Kristoff lay on the ground, his chest soaked in blood. Anna knelt beside him, her skirts bloody, a sword to her throat.
"Anna!" Elsa screamed. She pushed past Liam, firing a blast of icy magic at Anna's attacker. The bolt sent the man flying, revealing his identity. "Hans?!"
"What in the hell?" Emma cried. She pushed forward too, stunned.
"Emma!" Anna yelled. She was crying, a streak of blood on her face. Emma and Elsa hurried to her side, kneeling beside Kristoff. Emma caught sight of the Jones brothers advancing on Hans, who was already scrabbling back up, sword in his hand. She forced herself to ignore it and focus on Kristoff.
"Kristoff?" Emma asked, laying her sword aside. "Can you hear me?"
Weakly, Kristoff nodded. "Ow."
Elsa felt his forehead. "He's getting cold." Anna pressed her hands harder on his wound, more silent tears coursing down her cheeks.
"It's okay, you're gonna be okay," Emma said. Grunts and curses came from across the clearing; Emma forced herself not to look. She couldn't think about her dream, not now. She had to save Kristoff. "Anna, let me see it." Anna shook her head.
"She has to see it," Elsa said, also trying not to focus on the swordfight around them. "Let her heal him, Anna." She pried her sister's hands away, more blood gushing from the wound. It was deeper than she thought.
Emma didn't hesitate; she laid her hand over the bloody wound and summoned her magic. It tingled under the surface of her skin, her hand glowing white. The gash closed in a blink, color already beginning to come back to his cheeks. "Try not to move," she ordered, pulling her hand away. "Anna, stay here. Elsa, watch them."
"What are you gonna do?"
She picked up her sword. "What I trained to do." Emma stood, ignoring the blood on her skirt. The swordfight had moved deeper into the forest while she was occupied and she cursed, running in the direction of the sounds. When she got there, her heart sank. Killian and Hans were locked together, just like in her dream. Liam knelt on the ground, his arm bloody. He started to rise, intent on helping Killian.
Emma stopped him. She ran her hand over his arm; it closed in a flash of light. "Go," she ordered. "Elsa needs you."
"Is she hurt?" he asked, panic rising in his throat.
"She's fine; she's with Anna and Kristoff. But we need those row boats. Take them back to the shore; Killian and I will handle Hans."
"Emma..." Liam did not want to leave his brother.
"I'll look after him, I promise you. Now go." Reluctantly, Liam did as she bid, leaving them alone with Hans. One way or another, this ended now.
Killian ducked and spun, thrusting for Hans's exposed shoulder. Liam had gotten the bastard there earlier, soaking the Prince's dirty coat. Hans leaned away just in time, slashing. He caught Killian in the side, the bite of the blade felt like fire. "Killian!" Emma screamed.
"Emma...get out of here!"
"Not a chance!" She ran forward, skirts swirling, sword raised high. Sparks flew as her blade clashed with Hans'; he grunted and fell back.
"Gonna blast me with magic too, freak?" Hans cried, trying to regain his balance.
"I don't need magic to hurt you," Emma snapped, going in to slash. Hans parried her blow just in time, his lips curled in a sneer. He hadn't been exaggerating; even wounded, he was skilled with a sword. But he couldn't fend off Emma and Killian forever. Emma tried to keep Killian behind her, worried about the blood soaking his shirt. The cut didn't look deep, but she needed to heal him as soon as possible.
Thrust, parry, slash, spin, wild punch, thrust, parry. Emma's dress was soaked in sweat; her hair a wild mess. Still, her long hours of training, of sparring with Killian, helped. She didn't have to think; her body moving automatically. Hans flung dirt in her face, surprising her. She staggered, almost tripping on her skirt. Hans lunged.
"Emma!" Killian screamed.
She regained her footing, sword thrusting forward, all her weight behind it. It sank into Hans' chest, just under his ribcage. He gasped, staggering. Emma pushed harder, her face screwed up in concentration, hearing the sick scrape of metal on bone. Hans' eyes widened as the shock set in, sword clattering to the ground. Killian lunged forward to kick it away. Emma ripped the sword back out and Hans crumpled to the ground.
Emma stood over him, numb. "Is he...?"
Killian winced as he knelt beside the prince. He felt for a pulse. There was none. He looked into Hans' blank eyes. Nothing. "Aye, love. He's dead."
She sank to the ground beside Killian, exhaustion falling over her in waves. She couldn't stop staring at Hans, having trouble processing that he was in fact dead. And at her hand. Granted, he'd been intent on killing her, but did that matter?
Killian took her into his arms, ignoring the pain in his side. "Thank the gods, you're safe," he whispered. "I've never been so terrified in all my life."
Emma buried her face in his shoulder, breathing deeply, relief taking over. She'd saved him. Killian was fine. She was fine. Hans couldn't hurt them anymore. Her hand moved to his waist where she found it wet. "Oh gods, I am so sorry!" she cried, looking at him worriedly. "Here, let me."
"It's naught but a scratch," he mumbled, letting her peel his jacket away.
"Don't you dare," Emma warned, angry tears spilling onto her cheeks. "Don't you dare, Killian Jones." She laid her hands over his wound and healed it, fingers touching the skin to make sure he was whole. "Don't you ever do that again!"
"What, fight? I'm an officer, trained to fight, same as you."
"Play down an injury!" she cried, shoving at his shoulder. "And while we're at it, don't ever tell me not to fight. I can take care of myself!"
"As our friend here discovered to his detriment," Killian observed dryly. In fact, he was proud as hell of her, even if he'd been terrified at the time. Her strength was one of the things he loved best about her.
Emma looked down at Hans; she had to close his wide unseeing eyes. They unnerved her. "I can't believe he's dead."
Killian gathered her in his arms. "He was going to kill you, Emma. I could see it in his eyes. You did nothing wrong."
"It was so much like my dream," she confided, shaking in his hold. The adrenaline was wearing off; her energy flagging. "I was so scared."
"So was I." Hans had tried to kill all of them; Killian absolutely wasn't sorry he was dead. He was just sorry he couldn't have done it himself. "Everyone's fine now."
Liam and a few crewmen found them not long after. He said nothing after ascertaining that Killian and Emma were both unharmed. Two of the crewmen carried Hans' body out on a stretcher; Emma leaned on Killian as they walked back to the shore. The others were waiting for them there. They all refused to leave until they knew Emma and Killian were alright.
Elsa preserved Hans' body in an icy cocoon; it took eight men to haul it to the Jewel's hold. Something had clearly gone wrong on the way to Rana. Elsa was determined to find out what happened; the security of her kingdom could depend on it.