Elsa why do you hate my state so? Blasting us with snow and sub zero temperatures.

So happy 2015. Now where can I get my Hoverboard?

Welcome back. First of all I should apologize some for the last chapter. I finished it in a very sleep deprived state so it had more mistakes then usual. As I have hinted we are entering the final chapters of the phase. (although there is always a chance I go to long on a chapter and have to split it) I am very excited about what is coming up. You should be too. So how bout I get you to the first of these chapters?

The Frozen and Pierced Heart

Chapter 36

History would call it the secret civil war. Clandestine soldiers and operatives loyal to the queen struck back at the organization that seemed hell bent on destroying her. In the shadows the two sides plotted and executed moves and countermoves. Messages and information were passed among people in secret while hiding in plain sight. Both sides attempted to infiltrate the other. And small battles sometimes between two men took place throughout the kingdom.

In a hidden location some of the top people in the conspiracy met to discuss their concerns.

"I didn't think she had it in her." One man remarked. "I didn't believe the queen would resort to these measures."

"It's not her." The leader answered. "It is believed that a group of advisors and military officials has put together their own secret organization to combat us behind the queens back. They are proving to be most…annoying."

"Couldn't that be a good thing?" Another asked. "If they are willing to go behind the queens back maybe they can be convinced to turn on her."

"Not is this case." The leader shook his head. "This just shows they are loyal enough to her to risk the consequences of their actions."

"Well then how about we just take out as many of the leaders of this movement as possible in one quick strike?" Another suggested.

"Well if you recall the attempted assassination of Admiral Hauge did not go well. We lost two men in that disaster. Also we don't know the identities of all those involved in this. We could take out potential future allies to our cause. Also such action could bring this to a full scale civil war. We are not prepared to fight on that level. Besides we don't want to. Our goal is to rid Arendelle of the snow queen not destroy Arendelle in the process." The Leader pointed out.

"Well what are we supposed to do?" One asked. "We have lost a dozen men in the last few weeks. They can call in soldiers when they find one of our locations. They have even shown willingness to do so. We can't just sit back while they pick us apart."

"And we won't." The leader answered. "For now we are going to scale back some of our operations to avoid detection. Do not engage the enemy unless you have to. Only seek out targets of opportunity. We will make them think we are retreating. That they are destroying us. But the master has a plan in motion that will deal a blow to both them and the queen."

In the castle the discussions were also about the secret war.

"Three weeks of this and we still have nothing!" Councilman Withers banged his fist on the table.

"Patience my lord." General Nohr replied. "These things take time. Besides we have taken out several of their operatives and seized two of their warehouses."

Withers looked up at him. "Don't treat me like a fool general. I may not be a military man but you didn't bring me onto this because I'm stupid. We have only taken out bottom level operatives. The warehouses we seized gave us little to go on and did not have enough provisions in them for what they have showed us they can do. We still don't know who their leaders are. We have no idea how they are funded. Then to make matters worse we have found evidence of foreign support."

"Yes but we have slowed down their offensive plans. They have been too busy with us to continue their murders to induce fear. Eventually we will wear them down. They are well organized and funded yes, but they still can't go toe to toe with the military and economic might of Arendelle." The general assured.

"What about the attempt on Admiral Hauge's life last week? We couldn't hide that from the queen. That didn't seem like an act from a defeated and beat down organization." Withers replied.

"No it seemed like an act of desperation." General Nohr replied. "Considering they never got close to the admiral they probably aren't keen on trying something like that again soon."

"Perhaps." Withers stroked his chin. "But I'm still concerned about the measures these people take. So far we have not been able to take one alive. The one we managed to take was shot by a sharpshooter. The shooter had one shot and could have taken out any of our officers and he took out his own man instead to make sure he wouldn't talk."

"Granted that is disturbing, but not unexpected." Said the General. "They haven't shown much value for human life. If they keep losing men at the rate they do though eventually someone will surrender and talk."

The general turned his attention to the rest of those in the room. "Captain Slovak. Is the queen aware of these actions?"

Erik snapped to attention and replied. "Sir. Queen Elsa is only aware of the more public raids we have engaged in. She believes they are standard military operations and has approved of what happened."

"Very good." The General answered. "Well that's everything for now. Keep your eyes and ears open everyone. We will convene again in two days."

As the men filed out Erik started to leave as well but was stopped by Minister Challah. "Captain if you would please stay a moment."

"Yes Sir."

The minister turned and gazed out the window. "How is the queen handling things? And be honest please."

"I believe she is doing better sir. The death of Anders shook her up. But she is getting back to normal. She is staying busy. The attempt on the admiral didn't help matters but thankfully nothing happened to him. She did order an increase in security on all high level officials as a result." Erik answered

Challah nodded then asked. "Tell me captain. Do you have any problem with what we are doing? And I want your honest opinion. Speak freely."

Erik took a moment before answering. "To be honest I'm not thrilled with the idea of keeping things from her. Especially important decisions like this. But I can see how it is needed. She already faces those who hate in fear her. Most because of the power she possesses. Some because she is a women. Others because they believe she is still the shy introverted girl that was locked away for years. And some because of the policies she implements. Now the worst sort of people in Arendelle have come to fear her and want to destroy her. Queen or not it is too much for one person to carry alone. I will do what I can to shield her from as much of it as possible."

Challah continued to look out the window on the setting sun. "Eventually what we are doing here will be found out and become part of history. When it is written they will probably say of me that I did this because I do not trust the queen. That I didn't thing she could handle it. That I had no respect for her. Nothing could be further from the truth though. I have found her to be a remarkable young woman despite what her powers did to her. Most people who lived in isolation like she did would have broken by now. I am really doing this because like you I believe she shouldn't have to bare this burden alone. She is trying to run a kingdom and keep it together all while holding back incredible power hat seems to be attached to her emotional state. Our enemy knows this and is trying to exploit it in every way possible. We cannot allow this. I will not stand by and let them take what is good in someone and use it against them. Is it possible we are going about this the wrong way? Yes. But right now I see no alternative. All I can do is protect my queen and country and hope history forgives the extreme measures."

He turned back to Erik. "Keep your head about you Captain. I have a feeling the queen will need you more than ever."

Things were beginning to slowly return to normal for Elsa. Her normal duties distracted her somewhat from the tragedy that had just occurred. There was also less talk of dealing with the situation so her normal day to day things began to take prevalence once again.

Part of moving on was finding a replacement for Anders. She didn't personally take part in choosing a replacement. It just didn't seem right to do so. Instead she relied on the advice of others.

Eventually they choose Westley Gromark. A man in his early thirties who had been groomed to eventually one day sit on the council. He was known for his sharp intellect and keen negotiating skills. He assisted in many areas of politics but had no official position because there was not an open spot. As aide to the queen it was thought he could gain more experience while also being useful to the kingdom.

Elsa did not find him as warm and friendly as Anders was. She could not argue against his usefulness though. She was impressed by his intelligence and ability to solve problems. He was somewhat pragmatic and calculating for Elsa's personal taste. But she didn't need an aide to be her emotional support. That's what Anna was for.

Anna had been nothing but supportive of Elsa during this difficult time. She also decided it was probably time to take the next step in her training as a member of the royal family. She started attended council meetings more often. For Anna, who did not like to sit still, this was more of a challenge then she expected.

During this particular meeting she leaned over and whisper to her sister while one of the members droned on. "How much longer will this last? This is so boring and forever taking."

Elsa smirked a little. "Be patient. I know building maintenance is not the most exciting topic in the world but it's still important."

Anna groaned quietly. "But there has to be a better way to do this. Use pictures or something instead of long monotone droning."

"Is there something you wish to add you highness?" The councilmen asked noticing the Anna talking.

Anna turned red. "I was…I was just…"

Elsa bailed her out of her embarrassment. "My sister was just expressing her interest on this and was wondering how she could learn more."

"Really?" Asked the councilmen. "Most people find this subject tedious and boring. If you like your highness I could supply you with some reading material you may find of interest on the subject."

Anna could not think of anything to reject the offer. "Why thank you. I would appreciate that." She managed to say while shooting a look at Elsa.

After the meeting was finally over Anna departed for her room with more reading then she expected when the day began. Elsa laughed softly to herself. Despite the dull torture her sister would have to endure she found it rather amusing. She headed to her study to take care of a few things herself. She realized it was the first time in weeks she had laughed. Only Anna, even unintentionally, could lift her spirits.

Kristoff entered the castle and walked towards Elsa study. He didn't seem like is usual self today. He seemed nervous. His eyes darting around as if hoping not to be seen. As he approached the door to the study he saw Erik standing guard outside. He tried to hide his expression as he got closer.

Erik broke into a smile when he saw his friend. "Kristoff! I thought you wouldn't be back from your ice harvesting for a day or two."

Kristoff smiled a little. "I got done early. Decided to come by the castle."

Erik nodded. "Well I believe Princess Anna is up in her room right now."

"Thanks but I actually need to talk to the queen." Kristoff said his voice wavering a little.

It wasn't unusual for Kristoff and Elsa to speak. She did insist on getting to know him once he got involved with Anna. Still he usually didn't seek Elsa out on his own. Also there was something a little strange with how he was acting.

"She is a little busy." Erik said looking at him questioningly. "Is there something wrong?"

"No of course not. Why should there be something wrong?" Kristoff answered a little to defensively.

"Nothing has to be wrong. But you are acting like something is." Erik observed.

"It's nothing." Kristoff insisted. "I just need to ask the queen something personal."

Erik examined Kristoff. Something was off. He thought for a moment trying to put the pieces together when it came to him.

"You wouldn't be planning to ask her blessing about something would you?" He asked.

Kristoff turned bright red. "What? How did you know?"

Erik grinned. "So I'm right. You're planning on proposing to Princess Anna."

"Alright fine I admit it. You remember when you saw me in town that one time? I was buying a ring. I'm trying to keep it a secret though so don't tell anyone." Kristoff said.

"Hey, it's me we are talking about." Erik assured him.

"So, can I see the queen then?" Kristoff asked eying the door nervously.

"I think I can let you in for that." Erik smiled.

"So…what kind of mood is she in?" Kristoff gulped.

"She seems to be alright today. Don't worry. The worst thing that can happen is she freezes you into a permanent decoration." Erik smirked.

"Gee thanks. I wasn't nervous enough already." Kristoff complained.

"Hey I said worst thing."

Kristoff shook his head and tried to compose himself. Erik placed his hand on his shoulder. "Don't worry about it. Queen Elsa thinks highly of you. Just go in there and ask. I'm sure it will all work out fine."

Kristoff nodded and Erik knocked and announced him. "You're Majesty. Kristoff Bjorkman is here to see you."

Elsa looked up from her work. "Very well, send him in."

Erik gave Kristoff a reassuring smile before closing the door. Elsa gave him a small smile and stood. "Mr. Bjorkman. What can I do for you?"

Kristoff thought how best to open this. He figured it would be best to just get straight to the point. "Your Majesty, Queen Elsa. I would like permission for your sister's hand." He managed to blurt out.

Elsa looked at him funny. "Pardon me?"

Kristoff took a deep breath a tried again. "I would like permission to ask your sister, Princess Anna, to marry me."

Elsa's eyes grew wide. She wasn't expecting this. Correction. She was expecting this at some point but now that it was happening it was far more real then she expected. She had come to like Kristoff. She knew Anna loved him very much. But was she really ready to give her baby sister away? The answer was no but this was not about her. It was about Anna.

"Tell me Kristoff." She started. "Are you sure you are ready for this step? Is this what you really want?"

"More than anything." Kristoff answered. "I can't imagine my life without her. I only know I want her to be a part of it."

Elsa gave her usual regal smile. "Well then I suppose we should start training you to be a prince."

"Training for what now?"

"Well if you're going to become a prince of Arendelle it would be best if you spend time preparing for it." Elsa explained.

"I never thought about that before…wait a minute! Does that mean you're saying yes?" He looked at her surprised.

Elsa broke into a big smile. "I am. It's obvious you care about her very much. That much was apparent when you went up and down the mountains with her. I can tell you respect her and will take care of my sister. While it is difficult for me to let her go I can think of no better man for her."

"Yes. I mean thank you. I will take care of her." He started rambling.

"I was serious about the prince training." Elsa informed him. "That won't be a problem will it?"

Kristoff scratched his head. "Well I never thought about it. But I guess you know best. If it means being with Anna then I'll do anything."

"Good to know." Elsa said. "Although you still need to ask my sister. When do you think you will propose?"

"I was thinking her birthday in a couple weeks. I do want to surprise her though." Kristoff replied.

"Well I won't tell. And I appreciate you very much for asking my permission first. I should get back to work though and leave you to plan for how you want to do this. Good day Kristoff." Elsa smiled as she sat back down.

Kristoff bowed with a huge grin still on his face and left the room. Erik stopped him on the way out. "Judging by the look on your face things went well?"

"She gave me her blessing." Kristoff said as though he was dreaming.

Erik grinned. "Well I guess this means I'll have to start calling you Prince Kristoff. Or your highness."

"Don't you dare!"

Kristoff decided to propose on Anna's birthday. Her birthday was a far smaller event then the year before. Anna had decided there had been enough excitement over the summer. Her birthday was just a private affair with family and friends. Elsa took the day off and made sure the sister time would not be interrupted.

Most of the day was Anna, Elsa, Kristoff, and Olaf sharing a meal and enjoying each other's company without any hassles or problems for the first time in a long time. Laughter and happy conversation could be heard ringing from the room.

As the sun started to set Kristoff tuned to Anna. "I was thinking of taking you for a sunset ride. Would you care to go?"

Anna smiled. "I would love too. But what about Elsa? We can't just leave her here alone."

"It's perfectly fine Anna." Elsa assured her. "I got Olaf here to keep me company. Besides I'm really not up for riding around. You got have fun."

Anna nodded and left with Kristoff. As they left the room they walked by Erik who gave Kristoff a small good luck nod. They left the castle and Kristoff helped her into the sled and they took off.

They rode around the outskirts of the city and among the hills and waterfalls of Arendelle's backdrop. After a bit Kristoff stopped at a spot he scouted out that overlooked the city and the fjord. He made sure not to pick the same spot Hans had tried his proposal.

He stepped out of the sled taking Anna's hand. "Come on you have to see the view."

Anna got out and stared wide eyed over the city. "Whoa! This is amazing. How did I not know about this spot?"

"Well if you like I would love to bring you up here anytime." Kristoff smiled.

"I would like that." Anna answered as they watched the sun set together.

As it set Kristoff took Anna's hands and knelt down. Anna looked at him questioningly when he spoke. "Anna. I used to think I would spend my life alone and I was fine with that. That is until I met you. Now I can't imagine my life without you. You have become my everything. I love you more then I ever thought would be possible. You make me a better and complete person. I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Anna, will you marry me?"

He pulled a ring out and held it out. Anna stared in surprise and finally burst out. "Yes! Yes! I will marry you Kristoff!" Her eyes brimmed with happy tears as she threw her arms around him. Then she pressed her lips to his in a kiss.

This was definitely her best birthday ever.

Elsa paced nervously around the room waiting for their return. She was concerned that memories of what Hans did might creep into Anna's mind and make her hesitant.

Her fears were relieved even before Anna got back to the room. Her screams of joy could be heard coming down the hallway. She burst into the room nearly dragging Kristoff behind her holding up her left hand. "Elsa! Elsa! I'm engaged! Kristoff proposed and I said yes! Can you believe it?"

She hugged Elsa tight while still jumping up and down. She finally let go and remembered something. "Oh I suppose we need to ask your blessing on the marriage."

Elsa smiled. "It's already taken care of. Kristoff came to me first and asked for my permission. Consider yourselves having the queens blessing."

Two days later Elsa meet with the council and had Anna and Kristoff accompany her. According to law and tradition an event like this would have to be brought the councils attention. Elsa expected some back lash from the hardnosed traditional members. But she expected no major problems.

She opened the meeting announcing the engagement first. "Gentlemen. I am pleased to announce the engagement of my sister, Princess Anna, to Mr. Kristoff Bjorkman. I have arranged for Mr. Bjorkman to begin training for his future duties as prince consort. I hope you will all welcome him into the royal family."

There was some applause from the council but also some murmurs. Lord Roqfort then stood. This worried Elsa some. He would be among the loudest opposition.

"Your majesty." He began. "I need to remind you that something like this needs to be approved by the council before it becomes official."

Elsa glared and frowned at the same time. "I do not recall such a law."

Roqfort smirked. "That because there has been no need to implement it for a while. Most royal marriages are arranged ahead of time or started though courting other royals or nobles an approved ahead of time. This is in place to be a safeguard for the continuation of the monarchy. I believe the history was because of one your ancestors when he was a prince fell for some local girl and tried to insist on marrying her. It was decided it would be against the best interests of the crown."

"Well this is not a situation where Anna has just randomly selected some man off the street. We are all well acquainted with Mr. Bjorkman." Elsa countered.

"That may very well be." Roqfort replied. "However, the law does exist. The council will deliberate and decide whether this union is acceptable for Arendelle or not."

The council was left to deliberate. Elsa went to confirm such a law existed. Sadly it did. Even Purkim with his legal expertise was able to confirm it and could not find a loophole. Elsa was a little worried but still confident the council would do the right thing.

Anna and Kristoff sat together holding hands a look of fear on their faces. Elsa tried to comfort them. Assuring them the council would be reasonable in their decision. That they would remember what Kristoff did for Anna and take that into account.

The deliberations took nearly all day. Finally someone came and told them the council had reached a decision and was ready for them. Elsa entered the room followed by Anna and Kristoff. She started to worry more with the look on some of their faces including both Byron and Hyrop.

Chancellor Byron pulled out a parchment on which the votes were tabulated. "Your majesty. The council has deliberated and voted. The majority has voted not to approve the union. Therefore the engagement is not valid."

Anna burst into tears and ran from the room followed by Kristoff. Erik, Davis, and Warwick all looked like they wanted to say something to the council but stayed silent at their posts casting condemning glares at the members.

Elsa did not have to hold her tongue though. "You dare deny your crown princess this? Just who do you think you are?"

The temperature of the room instantly dropped and papers fluttered in the wind that came out of nowhere. Roqfort managed to stand his ground.

"We are here to do what is best for the kingdom. Mr. Bjorkman has no experience or skills whatsoever to become an Arendelle prince. Princess Anna should be married to a kingdom to secure an alliance. The union you propose gets us nothing and possibly is a detriment to the kingdom."

Elsa stared him down. "This is my sister we are talking about. Not a commodity. She should be free to choose who she spends her life with."

Roqfort shot back. "That is the way things are. The price of being born to rule is surrendering your personal life for the better of the kingdom."

"This is not over." Elsa nearly snarled. "I am queen, and I will not simply let this rest."

"Yes you are queen your majesty." Roqfort acknowledged. "But you have been creating new policies to give more power to the people and elected bodies. Will you break that example by trying to overrule your council?"

"This is my sister we are talking about. I will not let her future become a casualty of political positioning. Believe me I will find a way." Elsa promised.

Elsa stormed out of the chambers. She didn't even have to touch the door to open it. A winter wind did it for her. She took a deep breath and went to find Anna. She found her sobbing in a corner being comforted by Kristoff.

"I'm sorry Anna. I thought they would be reasonable. I promise you though I will find a way to make this happen." She took her sisters hand an squeezed gently.

She then turned around and walked to her study where she found Hyrop and Byron waiting for her. She motioned them inside and sat down. "Tell me what happened."

Byron spoke first. "I'm sorry your majesty. Many of the members fear having a commoner ascend to the throne."

Hyrop chimed in. "Most of the members were undecided on the matter. The hard liners were able to push them over to their side during deliberations. They are able to sell fear rather effectively."

Elsa rubbed her temples. "So what are our options?"

Byron sighed. "All I can think of is to meet with those in the middle and try to convince them of our side. We can demand a revote on the issue. It won't be easy though. We have to convince them that having an ice harvester on the throne won't be an embarrassment or detriment to us."

"Very well." Elsa sighed. "It looks like I have a lot of work to do."

The meetings with the council members did not go well. Very few of the members could be convinced to come over to Elsa's side. She refused to give up. She was not about to let her only family be told they couldn't love and she needed to auction her off to the highest bidder. That fate for Anna was unacceptable.

Erik wished he could do something. However he had not endeared himself to the council as of late. Those who would maybe listen to him were already voting in favor of Kristoff.

As he walked through the castle today though he saw a possible opportunity.

Lord Wallace was in the castle today meeting with several people about business. Erik seized the moment.

"Lord Wallace may I have a word?"

Wallace turned around and smiled. "Of course captain. What can I do for you?"

"I have a favor to ask."

"Queen Elsa, Lord Wallace to see you." Erik announced.

"Very well send him in." Elsa acknowledged barely looking up. She was going over ideas with Byron and Hyrop. Normally she would be happy to see Wallace but her mind was occupied.

Wallace walked in and bowed. "Your majesty. I understand you have a bit of a problem."

Elsa looked up. "So you heard?"

"I did." Wallace said. "And I would like to offer my assistance."

"What do you mean?"

Wallace grinned. "Well as you know I have a good deal of influence. I may be able to change a few minds."

Elsa managed a small smile for the first time in days. "Anything you can do would be greatly appreciated."

"I must warn you. It will probably take more than my influence though. You will probably have to negotiate some sort of deal. I can find out what it would take." Wallace warned.

"I'll do whatever it takes." Elsa said

"I would be careful about that." Hyrop warned. "They may ask for something they can't get otherwise. What if, for example, they ask for Captain Slovak to be removed from his position?"

"That's..." Elsa started.

"Perfectly acceptable." Erik finished. "If that is what it takes for Princess Anna and Kristoff to be together then so be it."

"So are we decided then?" Wallace asked.

"Yes." Elsa said. "Please see what you can do and bring any proposals back to me."

Over the next few days Wallace worked tirelessly in meeting an negotiations. Finally he came back to Elsa with his finding.

"My queen I have made progress. I believe we can make this work." He reported to Elsa who was sitting with Hyrop, Byron, and Purkim. Erik also was in the room.

"Excellent news." Elsa sat up excitedly. "How do we make this work?"

"Well there were several things they wanted in return. Depended on who I was talking to. But the most common thing was…Well I'll just let you read it." He handed a paper to Elsa.

She looked at it and her face fell. "Is this the only way?"

"I'm afraid so. He majority were rather adamant about it." Wallace confirmed.

Elsa handed the paper to the others in the room who all frowned while looking at it.

"I'm not sure this is a great idea." Hyrop said.

"I don't care for it at all." Elsa admitted. "But this is for Anna." She closed her eyes and thought for a moment. "I'll do it."

Erik shocked everyone in the room by speaking. "Your majesty you can't!"

Elsa gave him a sad smile. "It would probably happen eventually anyways. At least this way I have some say in the terms. Your concern is noted and appreciated though captain."

Purkim looked over the paper. "You know your majesty, I can make some adjustments to this to make it more favorable to you. With Lord Wallace's help this might not be so daunting."

"Thank you." Elsa said. "Anna and Kristoff are never to find out about this though. I will not let their happiness be clouded by this document."

Over the next couple days Purkim and Wallace managed to have the proposal edited more into Elsa's favor. Finally with several council members at witness Elsa signed what was known as proposition 4702. The agreement stated that the council would vote for the union of Anna and Kristoff as long as Elsa agreed to their terms.

An official vote was needed. This time it passed. Anna and Kristoff were to be officially announced as engaged.

As the meeting wrapped up Hyrop gave Elsa an encouraging smile. "That was a brave thing you did. Don't worry to much about the document. It will take time before they can put it into effect. A lot can happen between now and then."

Elsa nodded. She then turned her attention to another matter. "Any way I can convince you not to go?"

Hyrop smiled. "I am an old man your majesty. I don't know when I will get a chance to visit my brother again. I'll just be gone a few weeks."

"I know. It's just I worry about not having your counsel around." Elsa admitted.

"You will be just fine. You have got through so much in the last month." Hyrop assured her.

"I wish I had your faith." Elsa said.

"You will be fine. I expect the kingdom to be just the way I left it when I return." Hyrop smiled.

With the vote official it was now time to inform Anna and Kristoff. Because of proposal to make the vote happen Elsa had not invited them to the official vote.

She found them sitting together in one of the lounges. "Anna, Kristoff, I have some news."

Anna looked up at her. "Yes?"

Elsa broke into a big smile. "I have just returned from the council. We have had a revote. They have voted in your favor."

Anna sat up shocked. "What?!"

"It's official. You and Kristoff and formally betrothed." Elsa smiled.

Anna squealed and threw her arms around Elsa. "How? How did you do it?"

Elsa hugged Anna tight. "It took some negotiating but they managed to see it was the right thing to do."

"Thank you. Thank you. Thank you." Anna gushed. "I don't know how I can repay you."

"Don't worry about it." Elsa said still holding her. "I didn't do anything you wouldn't have."

The news of the royal engagement spread quickly through the kingdom. For the most part it was well received. With all that out of the way things started to return to normal. There was a wedding to plan now of course but it would not take place until the summer. As word spread to other kingdoms those kingdoms sent either well wishes or protests to a royal being promised to a commoner. The well wishes Elsa happily responded to. The protests she decided to simply ignore.

The weather was cooling and Arendelle prepared for the coming winter. Elsa went over reports on food storage and other winter preparedness issues. She was looking forward to this winter truthfully. Because Arendelle became difficult to access things slowed down during that time. The tradeoff was the weeks before were stuffed with last minute negotiations and politics.

On this day she was going over a pile of paperwork making sure everything was settled. She was interrupted by a knock on the door.

"Come in." She said barely looking up.

A servant stepped inside. "Your majesty. A Wesselton ship has entered the harbor. There is an envoy requesting to see you."

Elsa looked up from her work. "Wesselton? They know full well I cut off all trade with them over a year ago. Advise them to leave the harbor and sail home before the winter closes in on them. I have no time for Wesselton."

The servant bowed. Elsa didn't give it much thought. After a couple hours she went to another room and meet with several council members about a few issues. Once again she was interrupted by the same servant.

"Forgive the intrusion again your majesty. But the Wesselton ship claims they have the duke on board and he is wanting to see you."

Elsa's head snapped up. "The Duke of Wesselton is here in Arendelle?"

The servant nodded. "Yes he is waiting onboard his vessel. They want permission to come ashore."

Elsa had no inclination whatsoever to see the Duke of Wesselton. Besides attempting to have her killed last year he had tried to sabotage her treaty with Glenhaven and destroy all her credibility earlier that year.

"Permission denied." She said flatly. "Hopefully they will get tired of asking and turn around and go home."

The Wesselton ship did not go home though. They stayed anchored and kept insisting on a meeting. After two days another servant came with a message. "Wesselton is demanding an audience. They say they have something of utmost importance to discuss and refuse to leave until they are heard."

Elsa sighed. The only other option she had was to fire on the ship. Since they were not presenting a threat that would not go over well. "Very well. Tell them they have permission to come ashore."

Hopefully whatever they wanted she could say no quickly.

From the information she was given the duke wanted to meet in front of the council. She assembled them quickly as possible and took her seat at the head of the room. Erik made sure there where extra guards posted and took his place at the door closest to Elsa.

The duke was announced and he entered the room flanked by his two new assistants. He bowed a little to Elsa and spoke. "Thank you for seeing me Queen Elsa." He said curtly.

Elsa keep her face expressionless. "Welcome. If you could please state your proposal. We have much to do."

"Of course." The duke said. "I will get straight to the point."

She stood and paced a little. "Last year some events took place here that strained the relationship between our two kingdoms. I have come here today to set matters right."

Elsa stared down at him. If he was going to formally apologize for his actions he was not acting very sincere.

The duke continued. "There were some events up on the north mountain that left two citizens of Wesselton dead. These men were nobles of Wesselton and their deaths must be answered for!"

Elsa interrupted. "We have been over this. Your men were attempted to kill me and were killed while trying to flee justice."

"Correction. You have been over this." The duke said irritated. "But that was by Arendelle rulers who care nothing for the justice of Wesselton. We have received new information about those events. We have come to make sure the guilt party is charged and taken back to Wesselton where they will answer for their crimes."

Elsa interrupted again. "To my knowledge there was a large contingent that went up the north mountain. I was unconscious for the trip so I have no recollection. However besides Arendelle, there were also men from Belcomp, Alturk, and the Southern Isles involved. None of them are here to answer for what took place."

"Ah yes. But from what we have learned the responsibility for these deaths falls squarely on the shoulders of one man. We demand the accused be remanded into our custody immediately." The duke shouted.

Elsa was growing tired of this charade. "Very well. If there has been any wrongdoing then of course we will see to justice. Now do you actually have a name? Or are you just randomly blaming one of our soldiers for this?"

"Oh I not only have a name." The duke sneered. "I have an entire recount of this criminals murderous actions."

He spun and pointed at Erik. "Wesselton accuses Captain Erik Slovak of murder and high crimes against the Wesselton crown!"

To Be Continued...

End Chapter 36

Why can't I leave anything nice?

Well there you go. Your favorite 3 words to end a chapter.

Hope that's enough to get you excited. Just in case the last few chapters haven't been exciting enough I got more planned.

For what is coming up I cannot take full credit. A few months ago I noticed with one of my plot points I had written myself into a corner for future parts of the story. I decided I needed some outside help. I contacted some authors and 3 of them wrote back with some suggestion and ideas. secretcastle, Robert3A-SN, and LadybugTamer if your reading this thank you for your help. Your about to see what those suggestions spawned in my mind. Hopefully I don't make you regret helping me.

Keep those reviews coming. I am looking forward to how you react to these chapters.

In other news I am putting another poll up. This one will focus on extra characters an who have you enjoyed.

Until next time...