CHAPTER THIRTY-TWO: A DRAGON RISES
"Anna," Elsa repeated, "Is Kristoff coming?"
"No, we should go. You can't be late," Anna replied without meeting Elsa's eyes and walked towards the ship. Her heart was breaking inside but she froze when she heard Kristoff call her name, "ANNA!"
Kristoff ran into her arms and kissed her deeply, which surprised her and Elsa's eyes to widen with shock before looking away awkwardly. Anna could do nothing but stare wide eyed at Kristoff as he passionately kissed her lips. Finally, he pulled away from her blushing face. "I know you are a princess and I'm just an Ice Harvester, but where do you get off leaving Arendelle for a whole week and trying to leave me behind?"
Anna was speechless and guilt-ridden. She couldn't tell him about what Eva tried to make her do, that she doubted his faithfulness to her. "I- Uhm-"
"Don't tell me to stay. Please. Take me with you. I want to be with you, Anna. I love you," Kristoff said softly after resting his forehead against her's. She blushed from his warm and affectionate words. She glanced at Elsa who smiled at them and gestured with her head to the ship.
Anna smiled with joy and pulled him as she ran on board with Elsa following them clueless about what Kristoff meant about Anna leaving him behind, but just smiled, grateful that Kristoff was coming instead of remaining in Arendelle where Eva could sway his heart for Anna.
They all stood to the side with Hermes, Dracus's personal messenger, as the captain of Dracus's personal ship, the Dragon's Talon, barked orders for the crew. Elsa, Anna and Kristoff all watched with interest as the crew ran to their stations, unfurling the sails so the wind could help the ship drift off to the sea.
Anna became nervous, seeing how high some of the crewmates were climbing. Hermes became concerned with Princess Anna, "Are you well, Your Majesty?"
"Ye- Yeah. I just suddenly got a fear of heights," Anna replied nervously, being disoriented just by staring at how tall the center mast was. "That's such a long way to fall."
Elsa just smirked at her little sister.
Kristoff just held her close with a warm smile, which made her smile and cuddle close to him. "That's nothing. Remember when Ela drove us out of the Ice Palace with Marshmallow and we fell off that tall cliff?" Anna nodded.
Elsa was panicked, "You what? When was this?"
"You know. You brought winter upon Arendelle. Kristoff and I came to bring you back home but you summoned a snow monster to kick us out and chase us off a cliff," Anna reminded Elsa casually and Elsa suddenly felt bad and Anna gave her a hug to let her know it's okay.
Hermes smiled before speaking up, "May I show you to your cabin?"
"Yes," Elsa replied and all three followed.
"With this ship being the personal ship of Dracus himself. This main cabin is his. The crew have hammocks down below decks," Hermes explained, "I hope you find it satisfactory."
"Yes, it's nice. Thank you, Hermes," Elsa smiled before observing her surroundings. It was minimal with little decoration. There was a king-sized bed with a royal portrait of who appeared to be the former ruler of the Eastern Isles. He was holding a little boy. Elsa stared intently into the painted boy's eyes and noticed the scar above his eyebrow. "Dracus," she smiled.
"Ah, this was personally requested by his late Majesty when this ship was made. Lord Dracus is eight years old in this painting," Hermes shared.
"Aw! Your boyfriend looks so cute, Elsa," Anna teased, making Elsa turn red and turn around, "He's not my boyfriend, Anna. He's just a friend."
"A friend who's a boy, so-" Before Anna could finish muttering that sentence, Elsa hit her in the face with one of Dracus's pillows. "Oh, it's on." Anna tackled Elsa onto the bed and the two laughed loudly as they hit each other with pillows.
Hermes just stared with shock. "You should see them fight over a bowl of melted chocolate," Kristoff chuckled, "Boy was that a mess."
Hermes smiled, "I'll leave you to rest." He left and Kristoff looked back at the bed when Anna yelled, "Kristoff! Together we can beat Elsa! To my side, my loyal knight!"
Kristoff just chuckled and joined the fun, grabbing another pillow after jumping into the bed with them. It suddenly became everyone for themselves as they all hit one another. Finally, Elsa decided enough was enough, "Okay, that's enough. We don't want to damage his pillows." Her eyes widened when Kristoff and Anna both hit her in the side of the head with their pillows. Kristoff became super nervous from her regal stare. Anna just giggled, peeking out from behind her pillow, "Sooorrrryyyy."
Elsa sighed before speaking up. "We need to discuss sleep arrangements. I don't think Dracus was thinking too many people were going to come along."
"We'll decide that later! Come on! Let go enjoy the sun!" Anna insisted, pulling Elsa off the bed by her hand and out onto the deck.
Hermes came over to them when he saw they returned on deck. It was his duty to be by Elsa's side during the trip to help with whatever needs she had. As per Dracus's secret orders before he left the Eastern Isles. "Due to the special route and the design of this ship, we should reach the Eastern Isles in two days' time."
"That fast?" Elsa asked.
Hermes nodded, "The former King insisted on his personal ship be the fastest so special shipwrights from France were hired for the task."
"I see," Elsa replied.
She looked at Kristoff and Anna on the other side of the ship watching birds fly by. They looked so happy and in love. Elsa couldn't help but imagine that for herself. Would she be as happy as Anna? Her focus was always on her little sister and the Kingdom, so she never gave suitors the time of day. The council, Kai and the many letters written to her from suitors made it nearly impossible to avoid the topic. Would being with someone be good for my people? Would it be good for me?
With all the excitement of setting sail, the day flew by fast. Elsa, Anna was about to turn in. Kristoff stopped by the cabin to wish them good night. "Hey, just wishing you both a good night. See you tomorrow."
"Thank you, Kristoff. Good night," Elsa smiled.
Anna asked, "You're not sleeping in here?"
"I'll be sleeping out on the deck. I got an extra blanket from one of the crew earlier. I'll be fine. It's not my first time sleeping on a ship's deck before," Kristoff smiled and turned to head out.
Anna quickly turned to Elsa, "Please tell him he can stay in here."
Elsa gave her an amused smile. Anna replied, "Oh, come on, Elsa. What can we possibly do with you watching like a hawk?"
Elsa sighed, "Kristoff."
"Yeah?" Kristoff replied, sticking his head back in.
Elsa and Anna scooted to the sides of the bed and Elsa patted the space between them.
"Uh, excuse me?" Kristoff asked, seeing Anna's excited smile.
"You'll be sleeping with us tonight," Elsa explained. "To ensure you don't get sick from the cold and get a good night's sleep, you'll sleep in bed with Anna and I."
Kristoff laughed sarcastically, "No. I'm not."
"Kristoff. Are you defying your Queen? We are Dracus's guests. I don't want to be embarrassed in from of him by either of you two, because someone is sick or didn't sleep well. I want everyone in perfect condition when we arrive. Understand?" Elsa replied.
Kristoff hesitantly entered and closed the door behind him. Anna giggled with excitement, making Elsa hit her with her pillow. Kristoff slowly got comfortable in between them after removing his outer garments and boots to the lighter clothing underneath. He glanced at Anna on his left and then Elsa on his right before laughing nervously.
"Cuddle close. Scooch in," Anna recited their mother's words.
"Wait, what?" Kristoff asked before Anna cuddled close and rested her head on his shoulders.
"Come on, Elsa. Kristoff is like a big warm pillow. You have your little sister's permission to cuddle with Kristoff too," Anna said, wrapping her arms around her boyfriend's large torso without shame.
Elsa was hesitant, but saw what little space she had if she kept her distance from Kristoff. "Kristoff? Is that okay with you?" she asked.
"Yeah," Kristoff replied, his voice cracked nervously. He quickly cleared his throat and repeated, "Yeah. Whatever will help you sleep well."
Elsa hesitantly drew close to Kristoff, which made his heart beat fast. She cuddled close like Anna and rested her blonde head on his other shoulder. This made him red, but had to admit it was nice. Both their personal scents seemed to blend together perfectly, strawberries and winter pine trees. It helped him relax and drift to sleep.
Elsa's eyes were open, observing how this felt. She slept with Anna before. She can't recall ever cuddling with their father, only their mother when she was little, so this was technically Elsa's first experience sharing a bed with a man. Not in a romantic way but plutonic. She wouldn't normally do this but she trusted Kristoff completely and didn't have the heart to tell Anna know, due to what they she went throw with Eva. Elsa could see Anna taking subtle extra opportunities to keep Kristoff close to her. She could see the appeal that Anna saw in dating him. He was tall. His large build made him a strong partner for her, so she would be safe. Being cuddled close made Elsa feel safe and secure with no worries, which was what she assumed Anna felt every time she and Kristoff cuddled. She let her eyes close and drifted to sleep.
Morning came and Elsa was the first to wake up, switching out of her gown and back into her dress. She giggled seeing how Anna went from cuddling with Kristoff to laying on top in the most shocking manner. Kristoff woke up and smiled when he noticed Anna, but turned red when he saw Elsa watching. "I swear Elsa. I didn't do a thing with her. Honest."
"I know, Kristoff. Don't worry. This what Anna always does when she and I slept together after the thaw. She's a pretty clingy and needy deep sleeper. Do you need help getting free?" Elsa quietly explained, sitting down next to them on the bed.
"It's okay, I got this," Kristoff replied before trying to move Anna to the side and pull away. Anna whimpered in her sleep, showing great, saddened agitation and held onto Kristoff's shirt with clenched fists. Kristoff saw tears escaped her eyes. "Elsa…she's crying. Do you know?"
Elsa got closer with concern, "No. That's new." She saw the tears role from Anna's eyes as she firmly clung to Kristoff's body out of desperation. She's unconsciously holding onto Kristoff, afraid of losing him. Concerning how close Eva came to taking him away…and how Anna grew up sheltered in the palace. "It's okay, Kristoff. Just do as I say. Give her a gentle hug and give her a peck on the head. Slowly roll her to the side and pull away."
Kristoff hated having to disturb Anna by leaving bed. A part of him wanted to stay with her, seeing a side to her he never did before and waking up with Anna was amazing. The way she wouldn't allow him to leave her made him feel a sense of worth and belonging, reinforcing his love for her even more. He however was an early riser and did as instructed. He gave her a gentle hug as he rolled her away and gave her a soft peck on her forehead. However, before he could pull away, he lost balance and accidently rolled off the mattress with Anna. Elsa rushed over to the other side of the bed. Kristoff was on top of Anna and Anna woke with deep red cheeks as she looked up at Kristoff in surprise. "Kristoff?"
"Are you okay, Anna? I'm sorry. I was just trying to roll you to the side so I could get out of bed. I didn't mean to wake you. Did you hit your head?" Kristoff rambled with worry.
Anna smiled and immediately kissed him deeply, wrapping her arms around his neck.
Elsa cleared her throat to announce her presence after what felt like an eternity. Anna stopped and glanced at Elsa behind Kristoff with her lips still on his. Elsa smiled with an arched eyebrow at Anna. Anna immediately pushed Kristoff off, an amazing feat since Kristoff is so much bigger than her. "Gosh, Kristoff! Get off me! There's a time for cuddling and kissing, but I have stuff to do this morning," she said walking away from Kristoff who was smiling at her from the floor, amused by her masking herself with smooth demeanor. She did that once on the North Mountain.
Hold on! We're coming!
You are?! I mean- Sure! I'll let you tag along!
Elsa headed outside and breathed in the morning air deeply with a smile. Kristoff joined her side. He felt awkward since he shared the bed with Anna AND Elsa. "So…" Kristoff began awkwardly, "That was…something."
Elsa smiled to mask her awkwardness. "Yes. Yes, it was."
"Are you uncomfortable now? I shouldn't have slept with you both last night," Kristoff said.
Elsa was about to say something but a nearby crew member chuckled, "Two ladies at the same time? DANG."
Elsa looked away briefly and then back at Kristoff who was read. She spoke up, "It was an enlightening experience. Thank you, Kristoff."
Kristoff looked at her with surprise, "You're thanking me?"
Elsa felt awkward and turned away, "Never mind. It's stupid. Forget what I said."
Kristoff took her hand, "We're friends, aren't we, Elsa? You can tell me anything. What do you mean by ENLIGHTENING?"
Elsa looked timid when she looked back at Kristoff. She stepped closer and asked softly, "Can I confide in you with something? Anna can't know. You know how she can be about…this stuff."
This got Kristoff's attention, "What's so important that you can't share it with Anna? What do you mean by 'this stuff'? What kind of stuff?"
"Lately, I've been wondering…about…what it would be like," Elsa began cautiously and then looked up at Kristoff's attentive eyes. "to have someone."
Kristoff then understood. "You have?"
Elsa nodded and turned away, "I see how happy you make my little sister. She desperately needed someone to love her since I shunned her for so long. Then she met you. Anna and I have talked about you recently. She said she couldn't understand how she got so lucky with you and couldn't imagine her life without you."
This revelation hit Kristoff hard. There were times he felt like the third wheel tagging along Elsa and Anna. A burden. A heavy weight Anna was forced to bear and what was holding her back from much better things. To hear Anna speak so highly of him to Elsa made his heart flutter with love and a sense of worth washed over him.
"Spending time with you since the Thaw and last night gave me a glimpse of what it would be like with a man. It was nice," Elsa finished.
"Anna told me about the letters from suitors. I know it can be scary, meeting someone new, but you should give it a try, Elsa. Don't meet a guy just because it's what the council says you should do. Don't do it for Arendelle, do it for yourself. Is there a man you met that shows promise?" Kristoff encouraged.
A face and a name popped up in Elsa's head, but she kept it to herself. "Your Majesty?" Hermes said nearby and Elsa left to speak with him.
"Our cook has breakfast prepared down below for you, Princess Anna, and…?" Hermes said.
"His name is Kristoff. He's my sister's consort," Elsa introduced, "I'll inform them. Thank you." She looked in the cabin, but couldn't find Kristoff or Anna. Anna's excited squeal led her to the front and she smiled when she saw Anna on the front dragon head that protruded from the ship. Kristoff was climbing up to help her get down when she slipped slightly. "Woohoo! Come up here, Kristoff! This is great!"
"Anna! Get down from there! You can fall!"
"No!" Anna yelled like a child and held onto the wooden dragon head with her hands and legs. Kristoff grabbed her sides to try and pull her off so he can carry her back down, but Anna was being stubborn.
"What are you, twelve?! Let go, Anna. It's not safe up here," Kristoff said. Anna stood and looked down at Kristoff, "Then don't let me fall." She turned back to the sea and spread her arms. The wind blew threw her beautiful red hair, making it flow in the air. As Kristoff held her hips to keep her steady, Anna imagined she was flying above the sea. "I'm flying, Kristoff!" she laughed.
"Whatever you say, Feisty Pants," Kristoff said before carrying her back down for her safety.
Hermes approached them again. "With the wind favoring us, Your Majesty, we should be arriving in the Eastern Isles by evening. I'll personally escort you to your rooms. I imagine you'll be tired from the journey. The ceremony will be the following evening. After breakfast until we arrive, I feel it's important to teach you about the customs and traditions of the Eastern Isles so you can better understand what you witness during your visit."
"A very wise decision, Hermes. We would love to learn more," Elsa replied with a smile.
Down below the decks there was a space with a table that was reserved for officers to eat. The crew ate in the sleeping area that was separated from them by a partial wall. There was unfortunately no enough chairs so Anna placed Kristoff in a chair and sat on his lap without a word to Kristoff and he had to control his blushing face since Hermes and Elsa were there. The two cooks from a close space that was even smaller with plates of fresh food they got from Arendelle when they supplied. Kristoff found it somewhat difficult to eat while trying to keep Anna from falling off his lap from the waves, so Anna fed him and leaned against him.
Elsa couldn't help feel slightly embarrassed by their public displays of affection right in front of Hermes. She cleared her throat and gave them a look. "It's quite alright, Queen Elsa. It is the nature of a young couple," Hermes assured her before asking Anna, "If I may ask, Princess Anna. How long have you and Mr. Kristoff been together?" A warm smile spread across his genuine face.
"Since last summer. A few days after Elsa's coronation," Anna replied, "but Kristoff knows the exact day. It'll be our one year anniversary."
Kristoff choked on his drink and coughed it up on the floor. "Anniversary? Don't get ahead of yourself, Freckles. We're not married yet? Do couples really have anniversaries?" The last question he asked, he asked Elsa.
"Of course, couples do. There's one month anniversary. You forgot, but I'll let that slide since I was busy helping Elsa-" Anna happily explained to her ignorant boyfriend.
"Hold on. I did take you out for that romantic ride. Remember, the sunflowers and the sandwiches. You wolfed yours down then ate mine?" Kristoff pointed out. "That has to count."
"Hmm-mm. I'm afraid not since you weren't even aware of anniversaries until I so mercifully brought up. You're welcome," Anna bantered.
"I only questioned you to make you feel smart and not get all depressed for having less brains," Kristoff teased back.
"Excuse me?!" Anna adjusted herself on Kristoff's lap.
Elsa was about to interrupt, but Anna interrupted by holding a hand up, "Not now, Elsa. Your father and I are talking." Elsa giggled at that statement. When Anna got serious
"My head is bigger; therefore, I have more brains than you," Kristoff gently explained fact with a smug smile on his face. This triggered Anna's competitive side and the two continued arguing. Hermes leaned closer to Elsa, "Is the Princess and her Consort really having a debate about who has more brains?"
"Their least awkward debate, I assure you. May I recommend moving this conversation to the deck so we can give them some privacy to…work things out? This is going to be a long debate due to my sister's stubbornness and Kristoff purposely antagonizing her," Elsa replied.
"As you wish, Your Majesty," Hermes said. He and Elsa left as Anna and Kristoff continued their competitive yet childish debate. Once alone, Anna kissed Kristoff's lips, startling him. "I thought they'd never leave."
"You planned for them to leave?" Kristoff asked.
"It was difficult sleeping with you last night since Elsa was there, but I really liked it," Anna confessed with red cheeks as she looked away.
"Anna…when I tried to leave bed this morning, you held tightly to my shirt and wouldn't let go. You acted sad and were crying."
"Crying?" Anna asked.
"Yeah. What's wrong? Were you have a bad dream?" Kristoff prodded.
"I- I don't know what you're talking about," Anna said. She was secretly stuck on something Eva said to her about her relationship with Kristoff.
Kristoff saw she was bothered by something and regretted asking. He hugged her, "I'm sorry for upsetting you. You don't have to tell me if you don't want to. It's okay. We should rejoin Elsa. What Hermes is teaching about the Eastern Isles could be very important."
Anna wanted to discuss it, but kept it to herself when he smiled and guided her by the hand back on deck. They joined Elsa's side
They arrived at the Eastern Isles, which was much bigger than Arendelle, surprising all three. A massive castle made with oriental design, yet Elsa's trained eyes could see gothic influences on it's corners, the small statues of fearsome dragons prepared to pounce on any foe that dared approach the tall walls of the Eastern Isles monarch.
Kristoff with wide eyes still fixed on the massive castle looming over the larger city, which was greater than Arendelle a hundred fold easily, leaned to Elsa and Anna in front of him. "Now that's a castle."
"You can say that again," Anna said.
"Now that's a castle," Kristoff repeated. Elsa shook her head at them with a smirk.
"Elsa…look how massive the castle and the city- I've never seen anything like it. Isn't it something?" Anna asked.
"It's…something," Elsa replied casually, "A bit much if you ask me."
"You think Dracus is trying to compensate for something?" Anna asked.
Hermes couldn't help but looked both shocked and greatly amused. He quickly composed himself when the ship docked and the ramp was set for Elsa, Anna and Kristoff. Elsa watched the people as she took each step, remembering Hermes words as he taught them earlier that morning.
You are royalty. You are elite. Walk upright with your head held high. Those of lower birth will not look at you but will keep their heads bowed until you have passed. According to our people and those that came before, those of royalty and nobility are ordained by the gods to rule the world. Elsa did as instructed, but she didn't like it one bit. She watched as everyone of low birth, the commoners, knelt and bowed their heads as she walked by, forbidden by Eastern Isle traditions to merely look upon her. This was the complete opposite of how she ruled Arendelle. She strived to have close relations with her people and not encourage dissociating from her just because she was Queen. Finally, it became too much for her that she stopped. The people didn't look up because she was still there.
"Elsa, what's wrong?" Anna asked. Elsa noticed Kristoff walking with his head down.
"Kristoff, raise your head," Elsa immediately instructed.
"But I'm not royalty. Their traditions- I better humor them. It's okay, Elsa," Kristoff assured her.
"Kristoff," Elsa spoke more firmly and Kristoff raised his head.
Hermes quickly stepped forward, being careful to keep his head bowed, showing her he too was of low birth. "Your Majesty. Lord Dracus has told me much of you, how you rule, but this kingdom is very old and set-in traditions. It has been so since the beginning of this great kingdom."
"That may be, but I refuse to abide by such traditions where I exalt myself above others," Elsa replied to him regally before turning to the people. "Please. Raise your faces," she called and this confused the people still bowing their heads.
"Your Majesty, what are you doing?" Hermes urgently spoke.
"God may have put me on the throne of Arendelle, but these people are my equals in His eyes. It's time someone reminded them of that. Rise. Raise your heads so that I may see your eyes," Elsa gently commanded, but the people were too afraid, too crippled by countless years of tradition. It broke her heart to see such isolation between the elite and the nobles.
Anna grabbed her shoulders from behind to comfort her when she saw tears in Elsa's eyes. Anna whispered, "Do the magic, Elsa."
Do the magic! Do the magic!
One of Elsa's hands rested on Anna's as she turned her head and smiled. She turned back to the people and began to summon a beautiful flurry of snowflakes that got the people's attention. A little girl ran to Elsa to see her magic better and Elsa knelt and put on a beautiful display for her with a flurry of snowflakes that sparked in the moonlight. The girl was in awe and wonder, giggling at Elsa who smiled warmly and did tricks with her magic.
Hermes noticed nearby nobles look at Elsa with such displeasure that he intervened. "May I show you to your rooms, Your Majesty?" Elsa nodded and created a beautiful flower made of unmeltable ice and handed it to the little girl. The little girl's eyes and mouth were wide as she received the gift from the magical queen. Elsa, Anna and Kristoff were on their way to the palace. Elsa felt much better seeing them smile over her magic and not bowing their heads in fear.
Elsa was the last to enter the large lovely room in Dracus's castle. Hermes grabbed her arm, getting her attention, "What you did out there, Your Majesty, no matter how pure your intentions will have consequences. There are high officials in this kingdom who cling to the old ways. I am grateful to have met you, Queen Elsa. I now understand why my lord, Dracus holds you in such favor. However, for your sake and your friends' sake, I advise caution and keeping your head low during the remainder of your stay here. Please."
Elsa showed a small amount of regret on her face. Hermes was scared, for himself and her, so she respected his humble request and nodded. "Thank you, Hermes, for everything," she smiled and Hermes returned her smile before leaving.
Hermes smile faded as he approached Dracus's chambers. He knocked and a voice replied, "Enter." Hermes stepped into a dark room and approached Dracus who stood in front of his large window, gazing at the bright moon. He bowed his head, "My lord, Queen Elsa has arrived but Princess Anna and her consort have joined as well. I have escorted them to the chamber you requested."
Dracus smiled at Hermes. "You're doing it again. I already told you didn't have to bow your head to me."
Hermes smiled looking into his friend's eyes, "My apologies, my lord. Old habits die hard. I told her about the traditions in the kingdom as you requested. She…wouldn't abide by them."
"Did she now?" Dracus smiled.
Hermes asked cautiously, "The Council have already been angered by your secret trip to Arendelle. You angered them again by defying their wishes by inviting her here. When word gets back to them, and it will, about how she mingled with the civilians. Her presence here will surely shake things up and not necessarily for the better. I don't understand your logic."
Dracus placed a hand on Hermes' shoulder, "You will, but for now, I only ask you to trust me."
Hermes nodded formally and looked down at Dracus's open robe at the still fresh wound, a slash across his chest. The events that happened in the Eastern Isles to prevent Dracus from attending Elsa's ball flashed in Hermes's mind, making him flinch. "Dracus, I never thanked you for-"
Dracus halted him, "You'll never have too, my friend. You have performed your duties to me greater than anyone in this kingdom. Thank you for being by my side. Now, go and rest."
Hermes bowed formally to his lord and left as instructed. Dracus watched his friend leave his chambers before looking down at the slash on his chest. He remembered the letter he had to send to Elsa and felt sad for not attending an important event for her. I'm sorry, Elsa.
The chamber Elsa and the others was given was practically a home in itself. Stair led up to a large bed. Down below was a sitting area with furniture, a fireplace. Kristoff insisted on sleeping on the couch this time. Anna was so mind blown when she laid on the incredibly soft mattress and lost herself in the velvet sheets. Elsa, being the incredibly attentive woman she was, noticed certain details that stood out to her. The entire décor of the room heavily reminded her of home. The curtains, carpet, bed clothes bared the colors of Arendelle's flag. The decorative frames where the ceiling and the wall meet had Arendelle's Crocus in its design. Her eyes widened when they looked at the ceiling and saw the massive mural, a highly detailed landscape painting of the kingdom of Arendelle. On a nearby wall, there was a large painting of their parents with the former ruler of the Eastern Isles. They looked so friendly, which heavily contradicted how Kai reacted to Dracus when he was relieved of his hood. Kai made it seem like the Eastern Isles was a very intimidating partner of Arendelle's, one that that her parents were very eager to keep happy.
Elsa decided to put her thoughts to bed and retire for the night. Servants of the castle helped bring Elsa's and Anna's suitcases. Kristoff didn't have anything but the clothes on his back. Elsa would have to make a special request to Hermes tomorrow for Kristoff. If Kristoff was going to be with them at the ceremony, he would be in the proper attire. After changing, she joined Anna in bed, who couldn't help but cuddle close and make Elsa smile.
"What you did earlier was amazing, Elsa. Did you see the faces on all those people?" Anna asked with enthusiasm.
"Yes, but it deeply shook Hermes. He seemed very afraid. So for his sake, I'll hold back on breaking anymore traditions. We are not in Arendelle, we are in the Eastern Isles. So we should be mindful and respectful of their traditions and ways. Okay, Anna?" Elsa replied, laying in bed close to her sister and looking her in her teal eyes.
"I know, but-" Anna tried to say but Elsa gave her a peck goodnight on the forehead before closing her eyes. Anna gave her a peck good night and cuddled closer.
The next morning, Hermes arrived with two servants and greeted Queen Elsa at the door. "Good morning, Your Majesty. These two are Ben and Kya, your personal cook and maid during your time here and are at your disposal."
Hermes then left to carry out other tasks given to him by Dracus. The younger servants just stood there nervously in front of Queen Elsa with their heads bowed, avoiding looking at her. Her reputation became well known shortly after the thaw when word quickly spread about her and her magic. Elsa just gave them a smile, "Ben. Kya. It's a pleasure to meet you. Please. Come in."
The two seemed surprised by how casual she was and entered hesitantly. They flinch when Elsa's fingers gently raised her heads by the chin. Her smile was calming, but the two were still cautious. A servant had to act with etiquette when in the presence of royalty. "A cook and a maid. What goals are you working towards?"
Elsa's question caught them off guard, making them wonder why she was being so casual and sociable with them. Ben answered first, "I want to become a great chef…and start a family." He very briefly gave Kya a glance and made her blush and look away. Elsa caught the detail and quickly deduced they were a young couple, but were trying to stay discreet and professional, which was something Elsa respected.
She turned her attention to Kya, "How about you, Kya?" Kya flinched when Elsa addressed her, obviously possessing a timid and reserved personality.
"I- I'm not sure yet. So many changes are happening right now. I'm just trying to process it as best as I can before thinking about that," she replied honestly, avoiding Ben's sad eyes. It was clear that Ben was wanting something serious with Kya but was cautious about it because Kya obviously seemed to be hesitant to agree with Ben's dream of starting a family. They were wearing wedding rings so they are still courting one another secretly.
Ben decided the atmosphere was getting too uncomfortable and decided to change the subject: "What can we do to serve you, Your Majesty? Anything in particular you would like for your first meal?"
Elsa thought to herself, unable to think of something right then. Anna came to her rescue by suggesting from the couch where Kristoff was, "Ooh, Elsa. I know. What about omelets with sausage, cheese and diced peppers. Toasts with strawberry jam."
Kristoff groaned at how good that sounded. Elsa smiled, "Hmm. That does sound good. I guess that's what we will be having for breakfast. Kya? Kristoff unfortunately didn't bring any clothes. He should be dressed well for Dracus's ceremony later. Can you attend to him? My sister and I can get ready ourselves, but he may need a hand."
Kya smiled with enthusiasm, "Yes, Your Majesty. We have extra clothes for our guests in case of emergencies. I'll just need to get his measurements to pick the right size."
"Thank you," Elsa smiled. She noticed Ben get a bit jealous when Kya took Kristoff's measurements and accidently gasped, "Wow. You're so big! I'm sorry. I just-"
"Come on, Kya. It can't take you that long to get someone's measurements," Ben interrupted.
Kya gave him an impatient scowl. "I'm coming! I'm coming!" The two left and Elsa giggled, "Yep. Definitely a couple."
Breakfast was great. Ben seemed comfortable enough to ask for their opinion on a new desert recipe he made to get their opinions. Elsa, Anna and Kristoff were all kind to try it out. "I'm still working on it. Please tell me what you think I should do with it. Don't hold back criticism."
Elsa took a bite and noticed how rich it was, "A tad too much of sugar. Perhaps substituting your sugar with natural sugars from fruit may make it less rich." Ben eagerly wrote down her words, "Of course! How can I not think of that?"
"Walnuts sprinkled on top the desert to give it texture a crunch?" Anna suggested. Ben smiled as he wrote down her words as well.
"Needs carrots," Kristoff suggested randomly, earning looks from everyone, "What? You can never have too much carrots."
Ben took his advice seriously and was about to write it down but Elsa halted his hand and smiled painfully, "You don't have to write that down."
Ben nodded and they were off. Kya remained, "In the adjoining room over, there is a personal tub for you three to bathe in if you wish. If you need any help, please call for me."
"Wow, they have everything here don't they?" Anna asked checking out the bath area in the next room. "WOW, ELSA! COME LOOK AT THIS!"
Elsa and Kristoff entered. Kya followed. The bath area was practically a small indoor pool. Kya was amazed by their reactions. Isn't the Queen and Princess royalty too? Don't they have a cleaning room too? "The water is heated and pumped into this room. It comes from a natural spring deep within the mountains. It is great for the hair and skin. The soap and shampoos were hand made from natural sources by merchants in this kingdom."
"Thank you, Kya. A relaxing bath before the ceremony tonight would be in order. Especially you, Kristoff. After sleeping in the stables the past few nights before we left Arendelle, I think a good scrub down is in order."
"I stink that bad? You didn't say anything last night when I slept with you and Anna." Kristoff said.
"That's because I was trying to be polite for Anna and you couldn't exactly bath since we were in a rush to leave and there were no bathtubs on the ship," Elsa argued back. Why am I even arguing with him? I'm a queen. This should be beneath me.
Kristoff and Anna just laughed, but Kya was horrified. The Princess's consort sleeps in the stables?! AND all three share a bed?! Kya laughed nervously, "Right. I'll have warm towels prepared. Pardon me." Elsa sighed seeing Kya leave a little too quickly, "And now she thinks we're freaks. Perfect."
Elsa headed out, walking past Anna and Kristoff. When she got close enough to Kristoff, he smiled, "Don't worry. When we get home, we'll look back on this moment and laugh." Elsa smiled before pushing him into the tub, clothes and all. He scowled at her when he broke the surface coughing out water.
Elsa giggled, "You're right. That was funny." She walked off. Anna went to the edge of the pool and reached out, "Take my hand, Kristoff. I'll help you out."
Kristoff swam closer and smiled when he took her hand and pulled her in with him, making her scream from the surprise. She scowled at him when she got her head above the water. Kristoff was just silently chuckling, trying to contain himself.
Anna smiled at him with an arched eyebrow before jumping on him and tried to dunk his head under water, but he just grabbed her hips and tossed her in the water. Elsa was smiling and shaking her head. Oh, you two. She finally left, still hearing them laughing and splashing from the room next door.
She checked out Kristoff's side of the room and noticed a generous book shelf filled with first editions on every various topic. It reminded her so much of her library at home that she became confused again about the painting of her parents. Something doesn't feel right about all this. A book caught her eyes and she pulled it off and sat on the couch to read it. The title read, The Legend of the Eastern Dragon. Her attention was so fixed on the words of the pages as she turned them that she lost track of time and didn't hear Anna calling her name urgently from just a few feet away.
Anna finally got in front on her and pulled the book down, "Elsa, you have to get ready for the ceremony."
Elsa panicked when she saw how late it was. Anna and Kristoff were already dressed. Anna had a green dress and Kristoff had a nice brown suit and his hair was combed back. Anna grabbed her hand and the two quickly rushed up the stairs to Elsa's suitcase. Anna got the special dress out that Gerda had made for the occasion. "No, there's no time to switch dresses. I'll attend in what I have on."
Anna cringed at that idea, "You sure? I've seen some of the outfits others are wearing and it is really nice. Can't you just remake your crystal dress that you first made? That would be perfect for the evening."
It was Elsa's turn to cringe. "I do agree that it is an important event and the proper attire is required, but that dress would be too inappropriate, wouldn't you think? Considering the traditions they hold here-"
"Screw their traditions! We can't switch dresses now. We'll be late. We have to hurry, Elsa," Anna pleaded. Elsa quickly recreated her icy dress from memory.
Anna quickly grabbed a thing of perfume and squeezed a few too many times because she was so nervous and antsy. Elsa coughed in disgust, tasting it on her tongue. "Oh, Anna!"
"Elsa! Anna! Hermes is here to escort us to the Great Hall," Kristoff called below.
"We're coming!" Anna called back and looked back at Elsa, smiling proudly at how beautiful her sister looked. "Ready?"
Elsa smiled and took Anna's hand, "Ready, sis."
Hermes seemed startled seeing Elsa in her ice dress, which sparkled like crystals, only adding to the beauty the young queen already possessed an abundance of. "Please, follow me."
Elsa, Anna and Kristoff all followed Dracus's personal messenger and aide to the largest Royal Hall they ever saw. The throne was at the far end of the large room, sitting at the top of stairs. Once all the guests who arrived for the event had arrived in the Great Hall, drums began to play. Since they were running late, they were towards the back. Hermes remained by their side at all times.
"It's starting," Hermes whispered and the massive doors behind them opened. Several robed figures entered and approached the throne down the aisle. Hermes explained, "The one in purple is Dracus. The ones in green behind him are the top elites of the Eastern Aisles. They serve as the Council to His Majesty. Each elite governs a part of the kingdom but answer to lord Dracus."
The green robed figures stopped at the base of the staircase that led to the throne. Dracus went half way up and turned to greet the audience. He spoke loudly and the acoustics of the room helped carry his regal voice to all his guests, "Well. Don't you all look nice," he smiled and several of his guests laughed from his charm.
"Thank you all for coming on this historical day. According to the customs and traditions of this kingdom, this would normally be considered a sacred ceremony, seen only by the elite of the Eastern Isles. However, some traditions are meant to be broken." A few of the Council eyed him at his words, unpleased by his defiance since the passing of the former king.
He continued, knowing very well he had struck a nerve, "I have reached out to all of you who stand before me today." His eyes finally fell on Elsa. There were many rulers there, yet his eyes were able to spot her in the large crowd. "I am most grateful you are here."
He was addressing the crowd, but they way he spoke when he looked right at her told her that that sentence was meant strictly for her. "My father was a great man and a great ruler of the Eastern Isles. I have had the undeserving privilege of growing up and witnessing the great change he has brought not only to this kingdom but to many other kingdoms in the world. His legacy has fallen to me, one that I vow to bear all the days of my life. The Eastern Isles was once a secretive kingdom, weary of outsiders, yet all that changed when my father dared to defy tradition and share the vast wealth of the Eastern Isles with those in need. I stand before you as the last dragon of the Eastern Isles and make a solemn vow to you that I will bear my father's legacy and honor his memory by doing the same as he. In order to never forget that promise, I will bear a reminder upon my flesh."
That's when Elsa saw a few of the green robed figures approach Dracus. He stretched his arms to the side and two of them grabbed hold to keep him still while a third raised a branding rod that glowed with bright heat. The crowd became nervous. Dracus spoke up to ease the crowd, "Do not worry. In the beginning, according to the legend of my people, the Eastern Isles was created by a great dragon. With his might and the fury of his claws, he pulled the land from the sea and from its waters came forth the first of the kingdom's civilians, all making the direct ancestors of the elites you see standing with me. The branding iron bears the symbol of the great dragon who made this great kingdom and allow our people to flourish. I too will bear the sacred name of the dragon as a testament to my vow to never deviate from my father's path. Should I ever do so, may the Great Dragon, Drogoxius, strike me down!" Right then, the branding iron was placed against Dracus's back making the crowd squirm slightly. Dracus yelled defiantly to fight through the searing pain. Finally, the elites pulled away and Dracus walked forward with a regal poise, emanating with strength and power.
Elsa, Anna, and Kristoff seemed a bit blown away by what they just witnessed, so Hermes explained, "Every ruler who ascends the throne is branded with a design that encompasses their vow to his people. It is a rite of passage. If one turns away from the branding due to fear or unwillingness to bear terrible pain, he is labeled a cowered and cursed by the great dragon to die a horrible death. However, Dracus is the first to ever choose to brand himself with the name of the great dragon. It is considered a taboo amongst those who follow the old ways. The vow he has just made is considered the most dangerous ever made, because he has sealed it by branding himself with the very name of the dragon god our people worship. If the Council isn't angered, they sure will be now. They must think it arrogant of him to use the name of their god in such a manner."
There was a great feast to celebrate Dracus's ascension to the throne. Everyone talked amongst themselves and enjoyed the feast. Elsa remained in her spot with Anna while Kristoff and Hermes grabbed food for them.
"Wow, that was some ceremony," Anna said, still blown away.
Elsa nodded, "Yes. I don't think I ever could."
"If you had to, what would your branding symbol be?" Anna asked. "I bet a snowflake."
"That sounds about right," Elsa giggled at Anna. Her smile faded when she noticed several of the green robed figures staring at her with such disgust and hate. She remembered Hermes's warning and chose to ignore their condemning eyes. However, she could still feel their stares and felt the need to step out for some air. "Stay here, Anna, so Kristoff can find you. I'm going to step out for some fresh air." She left without an explanation and went out a different entrance to the beautiful gardens.
Finally, she felt free of the hateful glares and exhaled peacefully. "I was afraid you wouldn't show." She turned to see Dracus wearing his open robe and carrying two plates of food. He offered her one, "Hermes couldn't find you, but Anna told me you stepped outside. Is something wrong, Elsa?"
His voice was gentle and genuinely concerned. She grabbed her plate, but sat it down on the bench, "I believe your Council doesn't like me that much."
Dracus ate from his plate and sat down on the the stony bench, "They didn't want you here, but I sent the invite anyways. It was originally meant to only be you invited to the ceremony. I was forced to invite everyone else to mask your invitation, but clearly that didn't fool them. I assume part of their behavior is the incident you caused on arrival."
"You heard about that?" Elsa asked, looking at him.
"I have spies everywhere, Elsa, even in your kingdom," Dracus smiled. This alarmed Elsa, but he quickly explained with laughter, "Don't worry. I won't invade Arendelle. You have my word. My spy merely reports to me your accomplishments since my first visit to your home. I was curious if you were anything like your father since he was close to mine."
"The painting in the room," Elsa pointed out, "The room's décor."
"My father became interested in your father's way of ruling and invited him to establish an alliance that could help Arendelle prosper after your grandfather's death. King Agnarr of course took it to help his people and Queen Iduna came with him. Your parents and my father became very close friends, sharing the same ideals of how a ruler should treat his people. He had this special room made just for them whenever they visited. He hoped it would help them feel at home," Dracus explained.
"I see, but why would Kai be afraid of you when you last attended," Elsa asked.
"I have no idea. I guess I'm just that kind of a guy," Dracus laughed. Elsa was reading him. His brief second of hesitation meant he was hiding something and his joking meant he wasn't going to tell her.
"I was wondering why you were unable to attend the ball I invited you to, but seeing this large castle and kingdom, I understand now how busy it must keep you," Elsa said.
Dracus felt sad by that and took her hand, "I'm sorry, Elsa. From what my spy has reported to me, you went all out on preparing that ball. I wish I could have seen it with my own eyes."
Elsa stared into his soft eyes. She pulled her hand away subtly and looked back at the gardens. "There's nothing to apologize for. You sounded busy."
"Never too busy for you," he smiled before explaining openly, "There was a rebellion and a challenge to my claim to the throne. It was led by one of the Council Members. I had to halt the aggression and slaughter by executing him and those that followed him. That was the reason why I couldn't join your ball."
Elsa noticed the fresh cut across his chest and sat next to him, "Is that how you got that?"
Dracus looked down at his chest wound and grazed it with his finger. "Yes." He faced Elsa better. "Hermes intervened and saved my life from what could have been a more fatal injury. He turned on Hermes and would have killed him if I didn't take the swipe of his sword for him."
"Your letter said you wanted to discuss an alliance with me, like the one our parents shared?" Elsa asked.
"Indeed. The former alliance died with our parents. It only seemed fitting we renew the alliance," Dracus stood, "However, we won't be discussing that tonight. We'll save that for tomorrow over dinner. Also, we don't want to interrupt Ben and Kya."
"Ben and Kya? What do you mean?" Elsa asked confused.
Dracus smiled as he approached the edge of the stone porch and poured his drink out into the bushes below. Elsa became startled when she heard startled yelling. Ben and Kya left the bush, their attire looked…out of place and Ben's face was covered with Kya's lipstick.
"I knew it!" Dracus laughed and Ben just stared at him with a scowl. "Hey, don't look at me like that. You had it coming. Really. Sneaking off to fool around in my gardens? I realize you two are passionately in love and can't keep your hands to yourself. I just request you be more discreet and use one of the unused guest rooms." He tossed Ben a key and winked, "Now take your hormones out of my beautiful garden or I'll have you two flayed for indecent exposure."
Ben smiled and he led Kya away happily, "Thank you, lord Dracus."
Elsa just stared at Dracus as he watched the young couple sneak off. He looked back down at Elsa and offered his hand, "Shall we rejoin the celebration, Queen Elsa or should I just escort you to MY chambers?"
Elsa turned away from his teasing smile and got up herself and went back inside. Dracus smiled and followed her back inside.
(A/N: I planned to include the dinner between Dracus and Elsa, but the chapter had gotten far too long and will need to be finished in the next one. If there are any details about Dracus you would like me to write about, please let me know. Also, what does everyone think of Dracus as a character, especially around Elsa? I know Elsa doesn't have a relationship in Frozen II, so this won't get too intimate between the two.)