Two months later.

'From a magic as old as the glaciers, were born the spirits of air, fire, water, and earth. Our world enjoyed a time of harmony, the spirits keeping each other in balance. Over time, a fifth spirit was born: the human spirit. Together, they created a dazzling harmony, and our world danced. But even one spirit out of sync can cause chaos. The fifth spirit lost its rhythm and the harmony was broken. The elements raged out of control. Our world was fractured. When the chaos finally fell silent, the spirits had vanished, never to be seen again. But it is said, that if the fifth spirit can find its rhythm, the others will return, bringing with them that beautiful harmony, and the world can dance once again.'

Elsa exhaled deeply and allowed her magic to sink deeper into the earth, enhancing her communication with the spirits.

'But how can we prevent the human spirit from losing its rhythm and causing destruction again?'

'You are human. How do you prevent your magic from becoming destructive?'

Elsa felt a smile curl over her lips at the simplicity of the spirit's wisdom. 'Love.' She breathed in a whisper.

'Love.' A soft happy breeze whispered back as it swirled around her—a hug from her mother.

Love, it appeared, was the answer to everything.

Elsa smiled and opened her eyes. Summer sunlight warmed her face, illuminating the tall stone monoliths and sea of white and purple wildflowers that sprawled out around her. She inhaled their sweet scent deeply. Not long after she'd returned from the spirit realm, purple saxifrage had sprouted up in the center of the stone pillars. It crawled along ground in the exact spot where they had opened the crystal bridge. The flowers burst forth with new growth each day until they had grown into a perfectly symmetrical four pointed design—identical to the one that had opened in the sky. And in the center—the inner four pointed star where she sat now—grew an abundance of white arctic daisies.

The heart of the fifth spirit symbol—her own heart. Maren. That's what daisies reminded her of now, and would forevermore. If she didn't know better, she could've been in the Lichen meadow, surrounded by so much white. In fact it was nearly impossible to tell where her white tunic ended and the daisies began.

The White One.

The lonely mythic being who simply needed to be loved.

Elsa smiled. How truly lucky she and Daisy were to be loved by Maren—but then again she knew, as with nature, everything always happened for a reason.

Still somewhat lost in thought, she absently noticed that the sun had shifted. The meditation must've lasted longer than she'd anticipated, so she gathered up the large bouquet of wildflowers she had collected earlier and started back towards camp. After all, today was a day for which she could not be late.

The forest was bright this late in the day—at this time of year the sun would not dip below the horizon for at least a month, basking the deepest hours of night in eternal twilight. And if there was one thing that both the Arendellian and Northuldra people agreed on, it was that the midnight sun was the perfect time of year for celebrations.

Eventually she came to a stop behind a tree, just short of the clearing where she observed Rune playing with Kristoff, Sven and Ska∂i. Ska∂i—like her mother—was entirely white as snow. The only differentiating markings were her brown ears and the brown fuzz atop her head—which of course, were identical to Sven's.

Elsa put a hand over her mouth to keep from laughing as she watched Rune roll around on the ground with Ska∂i the same way Kristoff was doing with Sven. They were all matted with dirt—causing Ska∂i's white coat to appear a rather muddy shade of brown. She had clearly inherited more from Sven than just his markings… Rune's Sven doll suddenly flew from his hand, landing helplessly off to the side. Ska∂i immediately pounced on it and took off with it in her mouth, dancing playfully as if she wanted Rune to chase her—which of course, he happily obliged.

Elsa smiled. Rune fit in well up here, she mused—just like she did—and it felt right that he was going to stay with them. They had left the decision up to him, to stay in Northuldra with she and Maren or return to Arendelle, to a family that was willing to take him in. Without hesitation he had chosen the former, looking somewhat dejected at the prospect of returning to Arendelle. Elsa knew deep down that was the right decision anyway. He had already grown so attached to Ska∂i, had made new friends and he couldn't get enough of playing with the spirits and watching her perform magic—much like two other people she knew…

Elsa's eyes followed along to where Maren sat, leaning up against Daisy—both of them watching the scene with the same amusement. Elsa allowed her eyes to linger on Maren for a moment, taking her in. Somehow she never tired of staring at her—at her exotic beauty and calm aura of strength and wisdom. Maren was her rock, her stability, her constant. She was somehow everything Elsa never knew she needed, yet everything she had ever wanted—and she had never met someone like her in her entire life. How could one not stare at a person like her? And she was not sorry for it—as it was her unintentional staring that had first given her feelings away. Maren had read it in her eyes long before she herself knew how to articulate it—and it was this innate ability of Maren's to understand her—to understand and accept her exactly as she was, that Elsa loved most.

In the distance, further into camp, a commotion suddenly caught her eye: Yelena atop a rickety ladder leaning against her new, brightly painted lavvu. Her arms—covered in blue paint—flailed about as she yelled and brandished an accusatory paintbrush at Kalle. Anna was waving her hands at Yelena and it appeared she was trying to calm her down. Off to the side, Kalle was seated in a chair with her feet up, tea in hand, cackling hysterically at the whole scene. Elsa chuckled at Kalle's laughter. She could imagine she and Maren at that age, and smiled at the thought.

'My bet is that Yelena tried to get creative and messed up part of her lavvu mural.' Maren said with a smile as she approached. Elsa hadn't noticed her get up. 'Poor Anna's had her hands full.' Maren added with a chuckle, then slinked her arms around Elsa's middle from behind, resting her chin on Elsa's shoulder.

'When I told Anna we wanted this to be simple, I meant it.' Elsa smiled and shook her head. 'At least Ryder is helping her—or rather doing her bidding.' Elsa amended.

'You mean her evil twin?' Maren chuckled. 'Make no mistake, he is just as complicit as she is in making this as extravagant as we would allow.'

Elsa rolled her eyes into a smirk. 'Do you have the slightest idea what they have planned?'

'Not really. For two people who can't keep a secret, I will admit they have shown an amazing ability to keep all of this relatively quiet. I've never seen the two of them so serious about anything.'

'Me neither.' Elsa chuckled as she watched Anna and Kalle help Yelena off the final steps of the precariously leaning ladder. 'We're lucky to have them.' She added, then turned in Maren's arms to face her. 'And I'm lucky to have you.'

'Everything happens…'

'For a reason. Yes I know.' Elsa smiled. 'I still feel like the luckiest person alive though.'

Maren smiled with those warm eyes that bore directly into Elsa's soul. Eyes that made her feel safe and protected and seen. How that was possible, Elsa would never understand but what she did know was that no one had ever looked at her that way before, and no one else ever would. 'So do I.' Maren whispered, then leaned in and kissed her, long and deep and for a moment Elsa was so lost in it she forgot where they were.

'Kristoff!' Anna's screech brought Elsa back to reality and she spun around at the abrupt outburst. That particular octave of Anna's voice was a known precursor to chaos. 'What are you do-ing!?' She shrilled as she charged towards them. Her beautifully up-done hair was in whimsical contrast to the blue paint that had smattered her hands and face. Ryder, the ever-dutiful accomplice, ghosted hurriedly in her wake brandishing a clean cloth.

Kristoff ricocheted off the ground at the sound of Anna's voice—and for as large as he was, Elsa had never seen him look so small in her presence before. 'I was—well, we were just…' Kristoff gestured to Rune, Ska∂i and Sven who were lurking nearby, then gave up.

'I asked you to get ready and to help Rune get ready, this is literally the opposite of that—you're all filthy!' Anna's voice rose yet another octave, and Kristoff shrunk a few more inches. Ryder went to make a move with the cloth, then seemed to think better of it.

'I lost track of time… I'm sorry.' Kristoff murmured, mired in guilt. 'Rune, what do you say we go have a bath.' He added quickly, sweeping Rune up and onto Sven's back, giving him no room to protest. 'Skadi!' Kristoff whistled and off she skittered after them.

'Thank you.' Anna hissed, then sighed and started meticulously glancing around. Elsa knew that focused look well, she was searching for—

'Elsa!' Anna called when finally she saw them. 'There you are.'

'Uh oh.' Maren chuckled from beside her.

Elsa stepped out from behind the tree. 'Anna, this is supposed to be a simple, joyous celebration.' Elsa stated with a raised eyebrow. 'Not a death march for Kristoff.'

'It will be a joyous celebration, when people start listening to what I tell them to do.' Anna snarked, glancing again at Kristoff who started walking away at a faster clip. 'Oh you picked the flowers, perfect. One person I can count on.' Anna chirped and started to move forward to collect the flowers. Ryder jumped in front of her.

'Anna why don't I take those—' He added, gesturing at Anna's blue hands with the cloth.

Anna stopped and glanced down. 'Right.' She sighed. Ryder handed her the clean cloth then took the large bouquet from Elsa's arms.

'Alright, Elsa you're with Anna. Maren, with me.' Ryder stated rather professionally. He then stepped back, whispered something to Anna to which she nodded in agreement. The fluid ease with which those two conspired to hatch clandestine plans was nothing less than terrifying—especially when the plans involved her.

'See you soon.' Maren said, squeezing Elsa's hand and giving her a quick kiss on the cheek.

'Soon.' Elsa returned with a similar excited smile. She watched Ryder usher Maren away, flowers in one arm his other slung around his sister's shoulders.

'Ugh.' Anna muttered as she wiped paint off her hands.

Elsa turned towards her with a smirk. 'Are you my something blue?' She asked amusedly.

Anna rolled her eyes. 'Funny.' She retorted with a thick layer of sarcasm, then finished wiping off her hands.

Elsa took the cloth from her. 'You have some right…' Elsa used the cloth to wipe the paint off of Anna's cheek. 'There.' She said in satisfaction once all the blue paint was removed from Anna's face.

'Thanks.' Anna sighed.

Elsa frowned and linked arms with her as they started to walk. 'Anna you're stressed, please let me help you with some of this.'

'No, no no. It's all under control and it's going to be perfect, you'll see.' Anna added excitedly, her mood lifting.

Elsa chuckled. 'Now you sound like me at your birthday party…'

Anna smirked. 'The one where you dove off the clock tower?'

'I did not dive…' Elsa winced. 'Let's not relive it… just please don't fling yourself off of any high places today.' Elsa added with a knowingly raised eyebrow. This caused Anna to smile.

'Well, I may yet hurl myself off of Yelena's lavvu if she touches the paint while I'm gone again.' Anna scoffed a hushed tone. Elsa suppressed a laugh. 'Now go wait in my lavvu while I wash the rest of this paint off!' Anna called as she started jogging towards the river.

When Elsa entered the lavvu, it was apparent that Ryder had just been there. Half her bouquet of flowers and a necklace made of leather and ice were left on the table. Elsa smiled as she picked it up. As promised, Ryder had added a leather strap to a small icy pendant of her own design, so that Maren could wear it comfortably as a necklace. It was the fifth spirit symbol within the Northuldra hexagon—a blending of she and Maren to represent their love. It was her wedding present to Maren, and it was perfect.

'Maren is going to love that.' Anna said as she entered the lavvu. 'She's been dying to get one of those ice pendants from you' She added, then gestured Elsa over to a chair. Elsa complied, and Anna started brushing her hair.

'Are you nervous?'

'About marriage? Surprisingly no. You would think that I would've plunged us into a blizzard at this point, but with Maren I don't know, it's just different. I feel totally safe and relaxed with her.'

A long pause. 'You don't know how happy that makes me.'

Elsa smiled, her thoughts briefly turning to Kristoff. 'I think I do.'

Anna continued to work in uncharacteristic silence, weaving the white and purple flowers into Elsa's hair. 'Ok, what do you think?' Anna said and held out a small mirror. Elsa took it and observed her own reflection. Anna had weaved the flowers into something of a flower crown that cascaded down and wove into her single long braid.

'Oh Anna… I love it. It's perfect.' Elsa said, standing to face her sister. Then with a quick wave of her arm she morphed her usual outfit into a slightly more elegant sparkling white dress, and added a light layer of frost to her hair. 'What do you think?'

Anna was smiling at her with sad glassy eyes. 'You look like Mama.' Anna nearly whispered.

Elsa smiled at the compliment—the dress she had fashioned took inspiration from their mother's wedding dress. Simple, yet elegant.

'Ugh, I promised myself I wouldn't cry yet.' Anna choked out as unwanted tears started to flow.

'Anna.' Elsa said and moved forward to pull Anna into a hug. Anna gripped her back tightly.

'Does this never get any easier?' She mumbled through tears into Elsa's shoulder, and Elsa knew exactly what she meant. All the time they spent together, never seemed like enough—and they were once again on paths to leading separate lives.

'It must at some point.' Elsa whispered, not entirely convinced herself, then pulled her head back to look into Anna's eyes. 'Anna, regardless of where we live, or what we do or who we marry, we will always be sisters first and foremost. We're not going to lose each other ever again, I promise.' Elsa added with a sad smile and wiped a stray tear off Anna's cheek. 'I love you so much.'

'I love you more.' Anna said with a teary smile, then buried her head in Elsa's neck once more. Elsa hugged her back and they stayed that way for a long moment, until a knock at the door caused them to pull apart.

'The deer are on the move, is the swan ready to fly?'

It was Ryder's voice. Elsa cocked her head at his strange statement.

Anna quickly glanced at her with an embarrassed look, then rolled her eyes and ran to poke her head out of the door. Elsa could hear bits and pieces of muted whispers and curled in her lips to keep from laughing.

Anna finished speaking to Ryder and quickly turned around with an awkward smile.

'The swan is ready.' Elsa announced amusedly. Anna sighed.

'I told him swan was too obvious as your code name, we were supposed to use something more obscure like ostrich, but he forgot.'

'I like swan better.' Elsa said with a smile.

Anna smiled and shook her head. 'I guess the time for secrecy is over anyway. Shall we?'

'The swan is ready to fly.'

'Stop it Elsa.'

Elsa chuckled at Anna's petulant tone as they emerged from the lavvu. 'I don't suppose I get to know where we're going yet?'

'Of course not, that's the surprise! Why do you think Ryder and I invented an entire code language? To keep certain nosy perfectionists out of it.' Anna said with a raised brow.

Elsa scrunched up her nose in mock disapproval.

'What I will tell you is that we need to ride there.' Anna said as she untied Kjekk.

As they walked the short distance down to the river, Elsa could feel her own excitement bubbling. She had never felt the need to express her love to Maren in a formal ceremony, both of them knew the depth of their feelings and that was enough for her. But now that this special moment was upon her, it was impossible not to feel overjoyed. It was apparent that Nokk could feel it too, because she burst out of the river before Elsa could summon her. She danced eagerly on the waters edge until Elsa was near enough to freeze her, and then they were off into the woods.

Elsa followed closely behind Anna, having no idea where they were going and hoping that Anna did. Her sister's sense of direction had always been questionable at best—although it had improved markedly in recent times due to Kristoff's lessons. When the trail finally opened up, Elsa sped up so she could ride beside Anna. The sun had lowered just enough behind the mountains so that the continuous summer twilight was beginning to dim.

'We're almost there.' Anna said excitedly as the trail continued to widen. Elsa's heart skipped a beat with anticipation.

Before long the trail opened up such that Elsa could see a beautiful forest grotto spread out before them. Tall cliffs surrounded it, above which higher mountains stepped up in the distance. Several waterfalls cascaded down the cliffs into a pool on the far side, and in the center of the grotto rose a rocky island on which sat a massive tree. The rest of the grotto was filled with green grass, moss and birds. Elsa was stunned—it was magical.

'Anna this, this is beautiful.' Elsa murmured, unable to take her eyes away from the majesty of it.

'It's a hidden draugr grotto.' Anna said proudly.

'A what?' Elsa asked in alarm, pulling her gaze away from the grotto.

'It's ok, they're actually very nice now that the Vættir are gone. Kristoff was feeling guilty about Sven having killed one of them, so he went looking for them—without telling me I might add…'

Elsa was still staring blankly at her sister waiting for her to continue.

'He wanted to apologize to them and find out more about them—they fascinate him, I think they remind him of the trolls. Turns out he was able to locate them with the help of the earth crystal. Apparently the magic they use to keep people away from their clan was able to sense the earth crystal and they were able to speak to him because of it.'

'Anyway, they felt just as guilty about all the trouble they caused—they're actually quite wise and intelligent—and were willing to show Kristoff more about themselves. This—' Anna stated, gesturing around them, 'Is one of their grottoes. They don't use it at this time of year and said we could.' Anna paused. 'Do you like it?' She asked hopefully.

Elsa realized her mouth was agape and quickly closed it. 'Anna it's, it's amazing. I couldn't have imagined a more perfect place, thank you.'

Anna let out a squeal. 'I knew you'd love it!'

As they started around the cliff leading into the grotto, Elsa could see that Maren, Kristoff, Ryder, Björn, Rune, Yelena and Kalle were already there. They were standing at the edge of a land bridge that led from the cliffs to the center tree. Elsa smiled upon seeing them all, but it was Maren she couldn't take her eyes off of. Her hair was loose, flowing freely down her back and she too had a small flower crown of white and purple atop her head. She wore a bright red tunic that Elsa had never seen before, adorned with several leather straps and feathers. She looked regal and majestic and Elsa felt a whoosh of butterflies enter her stomach followed by overwhelming love. When Maren caught sight of her, the largest smile Elsa had ever seen spread across her face, causing Elsa's own smile to grow. They never took their eyes off each other as Elsa approached.

'You are stunning.' Elsa said in awe as she pulled up next to Maren. Maren smiled and reached up her hand. Elsa took it and slid down from Nokk.

'And you are somehow more beautiful every time I see you.' Maren said with warm eyes that continued to drink Elsa in.

Maren took her hand and turned towards their family. 'Thank you all for being here with us, it means so much to have the people we love most with us today.'

Elsa smiled and nodded in agreement. 'And Kristoff, this grotto is amazing. Thank you.' She added with sincerity she deeply felt.

'I thought it suited you—you both deserve this.' He said with a smile. Kristoff was holding Rune who started whispering in his ear. He paused to listen to him, then chuckled. 'Rune wants to know, because you two are getting married, if that means he can officially call you both mom now.' At this, everyone chuckled.

'Rune, you can call us whatever you'd like. We love you.' Elsa said with a smile and opened her arms to him. He grinned, wriggled down out of Kristoff's arms and ran over to hug her and Maren.

'Mom?' Rune said as he looked up at her with wide expectant eyes, cautiously testing the word. It sounded good coming from him. 'Could you um, do the magic?'

Elsa smiled at his request and picked him up. 'Should we do it together?' She asked. He nodded enthusiastically. 'Alright, on the count of three, wave your hand like I showed you remember? Are you ready?' Another vigorous nod. 'One, two….three!' Elsa said, and flicked her hand over the grotto at the same time Rune did. She covered the center tree with spackles of ice that reflected the twilight sky like lights, and of course, made it snow. Rune giggled and wiggled out of her arms to start jumping around in the snowfall.

'Shall we get started?' Yelena put in, gesturing towards the land bridge. 'Oh Rune!' She yelled when they noticed him running across the bridge towards the tree. 'Be careful young man!' Yelena called and quickly started to follow him down the bridge, with Kalle on her heels. Rune made it safely across and was still jumping around like a little grasshopper. Kristoff slapped Björn on the back and then they followed Kalle down the bridge, leaving just Ryder and Anna standing before them.

Ryder wasted no time in pulling Elsa into a tight bear hug. 'I love you, my new sister.' He said, sounding slightly choked up.

'I love you….too.' Elsa got out between labored breaths.

'Ryder, Ryder, she can't breathe.' Maren said, gently prying him off of her.

'Sorry.' He said and cleared his throat. 'Elsa you are the best thing to ever happen to my sister. I've never seen her as happy as when she's with you and…' Ryder cleared his suddenly raspy throat again. 'And I know you'll take care of her.'

'I will.' Elsa assured him, to which he nodded and then dove on Maren.

'Ryder, don't cry.' Maren said calmly as she hugged a convulsing Ryder.

'I'm not.' He choked out, but still didn't release her.

Elsa allowed them to have a moment, as Anna stepped towards her. 'Well I certainly know how he feels.' Anna said with a sad smile and took Elsa's hands. She paused and took a deep breath. 'I'm so proud of you Elsa, for everything, but especially for allowing yourself to open up to love again.'

Elsa suddenly had no words. Her life had been such a long hard road getting to this point, that hearing Anna tell her she was proud hit her emotions unexpectedly hard. She tried to suppress it, but her eyes began watering. Anna noticed and pulled her into a tight hug that said she understood everything. Elsa hugged her back, and wondered what her life would look like if this girl had not been in it, it certainly wouldn't be what it is now, of that she was sure. Anna gave her one final squeeze before releasing her. 'Kristoff was right, you deserve this and so much more.' Anna finished, then kissed her cheek. Elsa simply nodded in thanks, trying to fend off more tears. Anna squeezed her hands with a warm smile, then stepped towards Maren.

'Thank you.' Was all she said before giving Maren a big hug. Maren hugged her back with a smile as Elsa quickly wiped her own eyes.

'Let's go sister.' A red-puffy eyed Ryder said to Anna when she released Maren. Anna took one more smiling glance at her before Ryder put his arm around her and led her down the bridge.

'Are you alright?' Maren asked as concerned eyes searched her own.

'Yes.' Elsa said and took a deep breath. 'Anna just reminded me, what a long journey it's been to get here and I…' Elsa didn't continue for fear of more tears, but Maren seemed to understand anyway.

'You have come so far.' Maren said with a soft smile and took her hands. 'And that should be celebrated.' Elsa nodded and smiled in agreement. 'Oh I almost forgot. I made something for you.' Maren added, and pulled something small out of her satchel. What she produced looked to be a small woven bracelet.

'It's not a big thing, but it's something I wanted you to have.' Elsa moved closer to inspect it. It appeared there were specific designs woven in: the Arendelle crocus, several Northuldra hexagons and the four elemental spirit symbols—which were all ornate and beautifully done.

'Maren, did you make this?' Elsa asked in awe.

Maren nodded. 'I wanted you to have something that represented all of you.' She said and tied it around Elsa's wrist, then brought her hand up to kiss it.

'I couldn't love anything more.' Elsa stated with a smile and ran her fingers over the bracelet again. 'Speaking of which,' She added and produced the ice necklace she'd brought with. 'I made this for you.' She handed the hexagonal necklace to Maren.

Maren took in the necklace with wide eyes, running her fingers over the smooth ice. 'Elsa I don't know what to say, it's beautiful.'

'Just like the wearer.' Elsa took the necklace back and tied it around Maren's neck. It somehow made her look even more regal, and Elsa was proud knowing that whomever saw it on her would know that she was loved and protected by the fifth spirit. 'That emblem looks right on you.'

'And it's part of you that I will always carry with me.' Maren whispered then kissed her softly. 'Are you ready?'

Elsa nodded resolutely and linked arms with her as they started to walk down the bridge. Yelena and Kalle were standing directly under the large tree, waiting to officiate, the others to either side, ready to witness. The whole sight was almost surreal to her.

They came to a stop directly in front of Yelena who took both of their hands in her own. 'You two balance each other well.' She stated finally with a smile. 'And you look good together too.' She jested, which elicited chuckles and smiles from the others. She then joined their hands together and began wrapping them together with a thinly braided rope. 'Let it be witnessed here in this place, before family, friends and the spirits of nature, that these two women are joined hand in hand of their own choosing, to care for and love each other unconditionally, for the rest of this lifetime. Is it so?'

'Yes.' She and Maren said in unison, both unable to suppress wide smiles.

'Then so it is.' Yelena announced, and stepped aside.

Kalle then stepped forward and placed her hands upon the rope that held them together. She took a deep breath and closed her eyes. 'The spirits are here with us, to witness the blessing of this powerful union.' Kalle then began singing and chanting a beautiful melody from the spirits. Elsa followed Maren's lead and closed her eyes, allowing the music to engulf her. All she could feel was Maren's warm hand in hers, and the spirit music that seemed to be speaking directly to her soul, pouring only love into her. It was unclear how long Kalle sang for, but when she stopped Elsa was almost in tears and disappointed it had to end.

Kalle finally opened her eyes and took another deep breath. 'Love is a state of grace, that transcends time and space. You both have found this reflection within each other, and the spirits are very pleased.' Kalle stated with a smile. 'So it is.'

'So it is.' Yelena added, then removed the rope from their hands. 'You may kiss now.' She finished with a smirk.

Maren turned to face her looking as happy as Elsa felt, then stepped forward, laid a hand on the side of Elsa's face and kissed her deeply. Elsa closed her eyes and allowed Maren's kiss and the echo of the spirit music to overtake her. Somewhere in the background she heard cheers and clapping, but it was too faraway for her to notice or care.

They arrived back at camp to a great greeting of cheers and chanting music. Everyone was congratulating them, and it took almost no time at all for food to be brought out and dancing to begin.

'C'mon.' Maren smiled and reached out her hand for Elsa to join her in a dance.

Elsa hesitated. 'I've never been particularly good at dancing.'

'I'll show you then.' Maren said with a warm smile that Elsa couldn't refuse. She placed her hand in Maren's.

'Like this.' Maren placed one hand on Elsa's waist, the other was up palm to palm with her own. 'Just relax. It doesn't matter if we mess up.' Maren added with a smile, then started slowly moving them with the music. Elsa tried to go with her, but felt tense and rigid. 'Try closing your eyes.' Maren whispered, and pulled Elsa closer, guiding her hips where she wanted them to go. Let the music guide you. Feel the beat and flow with it.'

Elsa let out a breath and closed her eyes. She tried to focus solely on the music, and the movement of Maren's body and allowed herself to trust both. Before long she was moving more fluidly, even enjoying herself as Maren guided her around. She found herself laughing and opening her eyes to Maren's smiling face as the steps became more familiar and fun.

Before Elsa knew it she was dancing with Ryder, Anna, Björn, Kristoff, Ryder again, Anna again and even Yelena and Kalle joined in. Rune would dance with his little friends, then run off and play, then return to dance more. Eventually he tired himself out and was put to bed.

The night wore on, but the partying did not seem to subside.

'My sister is the besttttt!' Anna shouted. Elsa turned to see her sister lurching towards her followed by Ryder. In swift succession she managed to throw herself at Elsa in some form of hug. Elsa caught her and kept her from sliding to the ground.

'Anna, have you been drinking?' Elsa asked incredulously. She had never known the Northuldra to keep alcohol.

'Shhhh we don't have enough for everyone.' Ryder said slyly. It was suddenly clear who had supplied Anna.

'Elsa I love you please don ever leave me.' Anna slurred then rested her head on Elsa's shoulder and closed her eyes.

'How much did you give her?' Elsa asked in disbelief. She had never seen Anna this drunk in her life.

Ryder pinched his fingers together to indicate not very much, but it was clear he had no idea what he was doing either.

'Ryder what the hell?' Maren suddenly materialized next to them, taking in the scene. Kristoff and Björn were not far behind her. 'Did you get Anna drunk?' She asked with the same air of disbelief.

'Mare don yell at me, cuz I don't know which one of you is yelling, an I made you such a pretty wedding.' Ryder tried, then hiccuped. Maren rolled her eyes.

Elsa shifted Anna's weight to continue supporting her, she had fully passed out. 'Anna.' Elsa said, jostling her a bit to try and wake her up.

'I want cake.' Anna mumbled, waking up slightly.

Elsa smiled and shook her head. 'I think she'll be ok, she just needs to sleep this off.'

'I've got her.' Kristoff stated and moved forward to support Anna. Elsa gently transferred her half sleeping sister to Kristoff.

'Elsa you're the best sister of all forever time.' Anna mumbled through closed eyes. Elsa smiled.

'Make sure she gets some water before she sleeps.' Elsa added as Kristoff started slowly walking Anna away. He nodded in acknowledgement.

'No bed! Not done dancing.' Anna slurred as Kristoff took her away.

'Yes you are.' Elsa heard Kristoff counter in the distance.

Elsa let out a breath and turned towards Maren who had an apologetic look on her face. 'I'm sorry Ryder got her that drunk.'

Elsa shrugged. 'I don't think he exactly forced it on her.' She said with a raised eyebrow. 'Where is he by the way?'

Maren nodded her head slightly to the left. 'Off into the woods with Björn.' She rolled her eyes again.

At that Elsa couldn't help but chuckle. Maren smiled too at the ridiculousness of it all.

'How are you feeling?' She asked, slinking her arms around Elsa's waist.

'Happy.' Elsa returned and threaded her arms around Maren's. 'Very happy.'

'Well that makes me happy.' Maren whispered, then leaned in and found Elsa's lips with her own. Maren's kiss was warm and deep and Elsa could tell what she wanted by it, because she wanted the same thing.

'Do you want to go somewhere…else?' Elsa whispered, breaking away from the kiss.

A smile crawled over Maren's lips. 'Are you sure?' She asked, searching Elsa's eyes. Maren had forbade all remotely taxing activities until all of Elsa's injuries had healed, but that had been months ago and Elsa was feeling great now.

'Waiting has been maddening.' Elsa admitted.

'You have no idea.' Maren smirked. 'Let's go, I have a place in mind.' And with that Maren pulled her off into the woods towards the river.

'HOLY…Spirits!' Maren yelled suddenly and abruptly came to a stop, throwing her arms up to shield her face and nearly falling backward into Elsa. Elsa went crashing into her backside. Immediately she saw what caused Maren to stop—Ryder and Björn were both shirtless, kissing up against a tree in an intimate position. They had nearly run directly into them.

'Mare! What're you do-ing!?' Ryder yelled in surprise. 'Get outta here, go be with your wife! Oh hi Elsa, sorry…' Ryder amended when he saw her standing there. Björn looked mortified.

'Carry on, we're just passing through.' Elsa said, trying to cover laughter—she grabbed Maren's hand and pulled her quickly away from the awkward situation. The sight of Ryder and Björn's mortified faces were emblazoned upon Elsa's brain and her laughter spilled out as they ran through the woods, which caused Maren to laugh as well. They must've sounded like two cackling lunatics running through the woods, and this thought only made Elsa laugh more.

Finally they came to a stop before the river, both still laughing and unable to catch their breath.

'I can't decide who's face was more bewildered, yours or Ryder's.' Elsa got out between laughs. 'Poor Björn was too stunned to speak.'

'Well that's something I never need to witness again.' Maren got out, finally recovering from her own laughing fit. 'Imagine if it were Anna!' She shot back.

'I'd rather not.' Elsa admitted. 'We've had enough close calls like that already.' She chuckled.

'Which is exactly why we're going somewhere away from here.' Maren stated, and Elsa completely agreed.

'I had a little chat with Kristoff.' Maren added. 'He thought it was a good idea to use the draugr grotto if we wanted privacy. The draugr's won't be back this season, but it's still protected by their magic—if we were looking to be alone, that's the place to be.'

'What are we waiting for then?' Elsa said impatiently, then summoned Nokk and they were off into the woods.

'I still can't get over how beautiful this place is.' Elsa said when they arrived. Her ice still sparkled on the tree under a dark twilight sky, while the waterfalls and certain patches of moss glowed with bioluminescence.

They walked across the grotto towards the falls, leaving a trail of luminescent moss in their wake. Elsa released Nokk into the glowing waterfall and stood next to Maren, watching the phosphorescent water tumble down. 'I've never seen anything like this.' She added, awestruck.

'It's beautiful.' Maren said, turning to face her. 'Absolutely beautiful.' She whispered, staring straight into Elsa's eyes—and Elsa felt she was no longer talking about the waterfall.

Elsa could feel herself beginning to get lost in the golden pools of Maren's eyes. She still didn't understand how it was possible to love someone this much. 'I am so in love with you.' She whispered absently, vocalizing her mesmeric thoughts.

'So am I.' Maren breathed before closing the distance and kissing her. Elsa relished the passionate way Maren pushed into her mouth. It felt as if their bodies were simply in the way of their spirits becoming one with each other. The warm excitement began to build within the pit of Elsa's stomach, and suddenly she pulled away.

'Whats wrong?' Maren asked in concern.

Elsa glanced distractedly at her hands, hating the fact that she was still nervous about losing control again. 'I just, I want to be careful.'

Maren smiled in sad understanding, then took Elsa's hands in her own and rubbed warmth into them. She brought them both up to her lips and kissed each one slowly and deliberately, causing more fire to shoot into the pit of Elsa's stomach.

'We'll go slowly this time.' Maren assured, which eased some of her anxiety. Elsa nodded and moved in for another kiss. Like magnets, she just couldn't keep away from her despite her fears.

Together they moved toward the soft, mossy covered rock wall and continued kissing. Maren pressed her up against the moss which glowed momentarily when they touched it. They stayed that way for a long while, kissing and holding each other while Elsa allowed the time to acclimate to her building magic. Maren's kisses started to grow deeper and suddenly all Elsa could think about was this growing desire for Maren to be inside of her.

'Maren, I want…' Elsa breathed, unable to fully articulate it.

'I know…' Maren sighed in return, absently brushing Elsa's braid behind her shoulder so she could gaze down at her body. She ran her hands slowly over Elsa's shoulders and down her arms which sent tingles of heat down her middle. Maren twined her fingers with Elsa's and moved their hands up above her head. She held them there and started slowly kissing down Elsa's neck, then moved to the inside of her arms, taking extra time to kiss the scar that Elsa knew was there. The heat between them was palpable and Elsa realized she was having a difficult time keeping her dress frozen. By the time Maren made it back down to Elsa's shoulder, she had just about lost all willpower to keep the dress intact. With a sigh of relief, she let the magic melt away as it did when she was overwhelmed by love. Maren didn't stop, she simply changed direction from Elsa's shoulder to move down her chest, kissing every inch as she went. What Elsa wanted more than anything in that moment was Maren's naked body up against her own.

'Maren.' Elsa breathed, loathe to stop her from what she was already doing. Maren stopped. Elsa kissed her again, then began undoing the buttons on her tunic. She worked hastily, until she had every last leather strap and piece of clothing off of her. She stood there for a long moment, staring at the wonder that was Maren's slim, athletic body. Maren seemed to be drinking her in the same way, until they both couldn't take it and came together again. This time Elsa pulled Maren into her, finally, gloriously getting to feel her smooth warm body up against her own. She sighed when Maren's thigh rubbed between her legs as she leaned her up against the wall again. Elsa positioned her own thigh to do the same for Maren, and she moaned at the touch.

Maren slowly started to snake her hand down Elsa's stomach and Elsa clenched as a jolt of heat went surging through her. 'Show me what to do. With my hands.' Elsa whispered. It was near torture to stop Maren's hand from moving further down, but she needed to get this right first—she did not want to have another accident.

Maren smiled, took Elsa's hand, kissed it again, then placed it on her own chest. Slowly she slid it down over her breast and to her stomach. Elsa relished every muscle and curve her fingers slid over, fighting hard not to go faster, but did not feel any ice brewing. Maren moved closer to her and slid both of their hands down further, never taking her eyes away from Elsa's.

'We'll do this together.' She whispered, then kissed Elsa deeply and finally moved Elsa's hand down. Elsa felt the glorious warmth between Maren's legs as her fingers slid in. Maren moaned next to her ear but kept her composure as she guided both of their fingers back and forth. Maren's breathing and the feeling of her was driving Elsa crazy, but she was still able to keep the ice under control—there was simply too much heat. Eventually Maren pushed Elsa's fingers deeper, curling them until Elsa could feel what she wanted.

'Let me.' Elsa whispered, and Maren removed her hand, leaving only Elsa's. Elsa used her other hand on Maren's waist to pull her closer. Maren spread her legs a bit more, and Elsa slowly pushed her fingers inside. Maren let out a moan and braced herself on the wall behind Elsa.

'Elsa…' Maren breathed, before covering Elsa's mouth with her own and pushing in deeply. The feeling of being inside Maren was exhilarating, and Elsa wanted only to bring her more pleasure, so she started slowly sliding her fingers in and out and massaging in a circle with her thumb. Maren's breathing increased and she began to rock forward with each thrust of Elsa's fingers.

Maren then started sliding her hand down Elsa's neck, landing on her breast. Elsa let out a soft moan at the feeling of Maren caressing and holding her there. Her hand continued to slide down to Elsa's stomach, and she pulled back to look into Elsa's eyes. What Elsa saw there was warmth, lust and love and she wanted her.

'Keep going.' Elsa reassured, giving Maren the permission she wanted. With that she slid her own fingers slowly between Elsa's legs. Elsa clenched at the euphoric feeling of Maren's fingers sliding on her, and the sudden burst of heat that shot between her legs. Maren began to massage her there and Elsa nearly forgot that she was still inside of Maren. She started to move her fingers again in rhythm with Maren's, and suddenly, all Elsa could focus on again was wanting Maren inside of her.

'Inside.' She breathed in Maren's ear. Maren did not hesitate, but gently, slowly pushed deeper into Elsa. Elsa sucked in a sharp breath with closed eyes as Maren's finger slid easily into her.

'You alright?' Maren asked with concerned eyes.

Elsa nodded. 'Don't stop.'

Maren once again covered her mouth with a deep kiss and began to slide in and out of her while she moved her thumb in circles. Elsa had never felt anything like it in her life, the feeling of being loved from the inside out was indescribable. She lost focus on what she was doing to Maren and gripped Maren's shoulders to stabilize herself so she could spread her legs further apart. Maren stepped her leg up onto a rock that was next to them, and pulled Elsa's leg up so that it was on top of hers, then continued sliding her finger in and out and massaging as she went. Elsa's back arched with what Maren was doing to her, the position she was in now felt somehow even better than before. Maren started suckling at her neck while she worked, and Elsa realized she was getting dangerously close.

'Wait, wait.' Elsa breathed, and Maren immediately stopped what she was doing. 'Not yet.' Maren looked at her with confusion. 'If I go over the edge first I lose all my energy. Not yet.' She repeated. There was one other thing she had been dying to do to Maren, and she would be damned if she fell asleep before she got to try it. She'd waited too long.

'Ok.' Maren smirked. 'You have a will of iron.' She said in amusement.

'You're too good at your job.' Elsa said lowly, then switched positions so Maren was up against the wall. Elsa kissed her, allowing her hands to roam over Maren's breasts. She then started moving her mouth down Maren's neck, slowly over her breasts and down her muscular abdomen. She dropped to her knees and moved Maren's leg up to the rock again so that her legs were wide open. She immediately started kissing the inside of Maren's thigh, moving slowly towards her middle, trying desperately to have some restraint. Just before her lips reached Maren's, she stopped to look up at her. Maren was staring down at her, her eyes mesmerized with love. Elsa hooked her arms around Marens legs, then broke her gaze away from Maren's to put her mouth on her. Maren let out a moan Elsa had ever heard before, which drove her even more crazy. She could feel Maren grab the hand that was on her thigh, her other threaded through Elsa's hair—which was wondrous—but it was nothing compared to the feeling of Maren on her lips. She kissed and suckled the area as if it was the most precious thing in the universe to her—which is what Maren had become to her. Rhythmically she worked, taking her time to explore Maren with her lips and tongue and enjoying the fact that her hands were not involved. The longer she worked the more ragged Maren's breathing became, which aroused Elsa even more.

Maren's back arched and she squeezed Elsa's hand. 'Elsa…' She breathed between labored breaths. 'Almost….' She barely got out. Elsa stopped, stood up, and quickly replaced her hand where her mouth had been. She wanted to see Maren climax. Maren pulled her close and clung to her as Elsa worked her fingers between her legs. Finally she pushed her fingers up into Maren again.

'Right there.' Maren moaned, tensed, then rocked into her with a final primal moan. Elsa watched her beautiful face contort in pleasure, and felt her clench around her fingers, releasing a grunt of pleasure each time Elsa felt her pulse. It was one of the most beautiful things Elsa had ever witnessed. Eventually Maren's breathing leveled out, and she opened her eyes. She was still breathing heavily, but her face slowly returned to a smile.

'You're amazing.' Maren breathed in awe, radiating nothing but a glow of love. Elsa smiled in return, pleased with herself and even more proud that she had been able to bring Maren pleasure while keeping her ice under control. It felt like a well deserved victory for once. Maren kissed her again, then turned her around and pulled Elsa into her, so that she was leaning comfortably up against her. 'I love you.' Maren whispered in her ear and kissed the side of her neck.

'I love you too.' Elsa returned with a smile, settling back into Maren's arms as they watched the waterfall cascade down before them. Waterfalls always seemed to be their special place.

They relaxed that way for a while, while Maren slowly undid Elsa's braid, which caused her to shiver—it felt nice. She ran her fingers through Elsa's loose hair, eventually landing on her shoulders which she started to massage. Elsa closed her eyes with a sigh at the pleasure of it.

'I need to do this more, you hold all of your tension here.' Maren observed. Elsa grunted in acknowledgement, but didn't argue. What Maren was doing to her shoulders and neck felt amazing, and put her in a blissfully relaxed trance. Maren draped Elsa's long hair over her shoulder and Elsa felt her fingers glide gently over her back. Elsa knew she had a few scars back there—and it felt like Maren was tracing over them. She then moved to gently kiss each one. Elsa closed her eyes and shivered in contentment.

Maren returned to massaging her shoulders, then slowly dragged her hands down Elsa's arms and back, rubbing and massaging as she went. Elsa let out a quiet sigh at how amazing it felt. Then Maren reached around to slide her hands up and down the front of Elsa's thighs, squeezing them as she went. The sensation started to heat Elsa up again and she sighed at the feeling. Maren slipped her hand to the inside of Elsa thigh and began slowly sliding it upward. Her other arm held Elsa around the middle, pulling her back into her. Elsa felt her start suckling her neck again as she slid her hand up further, and Elsa opened her legs more, welcoming Maren in. Maren's warm fingers found her sensitivity and Elsa arced back into her at the touch, releasing a quiet moan. She quickly became slick down there again as Maren moved in slow rhythmic circles all over her area. Maren slid her other hand up to cup Elsa's breast, while pushing her fingers deeper inside. Elsa sucked in a breath and arched back further into Maren, her arm coming up involuntarily around the back of Maren's neck for stability, her other gripped Maren's arm.

'I've got you.' Maren whispered near her ear. 'Relax into me.'

Relaxing was the furthest thing from Elsa's mind in that moment. Maren's fingers were making that impossible. Maren started to slide in and out of her causing Elsa to grow more hot and excited by the second. Maren lifted Elsa's leg up onto the boulder again, giving her even greater access, before moving her free hand back to hold Elsa's breast. This was almost too much, Elsa could feel her breathing becoming faster, her mouth unable to close as she stared up at the waterfall. Her heart was racing and she was suddenly aware that she was very close to releasing—only, Maren was holding her. If she didn't direct this properly it could hit Maren—but then, it wasn't magic she was feeling this time. She was only feeling heat and warmth and love emanating from Maren tingling through her insides—but not ice. Maren continued to hold her, and despite her fears, Elsa felt completely safe in her arms

'Maren… I'm…' Was all Elsa was able to breathe out in the state she was in. She was going to lose it, all words had escaped her.

'Push your magic down into the earth.' Maren reminded in her ear as her fingers continued to work. It was too late for anything else, Elsa felt the tension within her snap and she arched back into Maren with a loud moan. She felt the magic burst from her in a white flash down into the ground, and the ensuing warmth of euphoria that rushed through her body afterwards. Maren blessedly stayed inside of her as the convulsions finished, until Elsa's legs started shaking from weakness. Elsa finally sagged into Maren, staring up at the starry twilight sky, her head resting on Maren's shoulder—her rock, as always.

Eventually her breathing calmed and she was able to turn around, using Maren's shoulders to stabilize herself. Maren held securely onto her waist and met her with warm, proud eyes. Elsa smiled, then allowed herself to sink into an exhausted hug. Maren held onto her, and they stayed that way for a long moment, holding each other in silence.

'Elsa look.'

Elsa pulled herself out of Maren's arms enough to see what she was looking at. She glanced down to find a huge burst of frost beneath them in the geometric pattern of a snowflake.

'Well that's new.' Maren added with a smile of surprised fascination. 'You look as beautiful as that snowflake when you climax.'

'That would be thanks to you.' Elsa quipped. Maren smiled and kissed her once more.

'C'mon, you're exhausted.' Maren said and started leading them away from the frost covered moss. 'Kristoff or Anna—or Ryder, must've left these.' Maren added, gesturing to some blankets and pillows that had been laid out nearby. 'I noticed earlier.'

'They thought of everything.' Elsa said as they both collapsed on the small makeshift bed. Maren pulled a blanket over them and Elsa curled into her, feeling happier than she ever had before in her life.

'What's the constellation for this month?' Maren asked as she gazed up at the clear sky.

Elsa turned her head to look upward. 'Gemini, right above us.' She said and pointed to the constellation that looked like two twin pillars or a bridge. 'It's supposed to represent the twins—two brothers, Castor and Pollux.'

'What's their story?' Maren asked.

'Well, Castor was born mortal and Pollux, immortal. They were very opposite in almost all ways, but had a close bond nonetheless. Castor was killed in battle which devastated Pollux, so he pleaded with Zeus to bring him back so they could share immortality together. Zeus agreed, but only if they spent half of their time on Earth and the other half amongst the stars in heaven.'

'Sort of like you and Anna.' Maren said thoughtfully.

'Yes actually.' Elsa responded and gazed up at Gemini. 'I never thought about it like that before.'

'Which constellation do I get to be then?' Maren asked excitedly. 'You choose.'

'Hm.' Elsa said thoughtfully as she considered. 'You aren't a constellation to me—you're more like, the sun. You shine light and warmth on everything in my life.' Elsa said, then pointed towards the moon. 'See I feel more like the moon. A cold rock just floating in space—but you're like the sunshine on my face. So, whenever you look at the moon, you can see the reflection of you upon me.' Elsa said with a tired smile.

Maren smiled back at her with eyes full of love. 'The moon isn't just a cold rock though. She's a beautiful goddess that shines light on the darkness where the sun can't reach.'

'Together they make a pretty good team then, don't they?' Elsa said, her eyes falling closed.

'The best.' Maren whispered, enfolding her arms around Elsa. Elsa sunk deeply into Maren's arms, nearing on the edge of sleep. As far as she was concerned this was as near to paradise as a person could get, and she wasn't sure she ever wanted to leave.

A/N: Well there we have it. Who needs plot anyway? That finished last chapter. This one was reserved for pure fan service (nearly 10K words of it, shit lol). Anyway, I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it-I'm only sorry it took me nearly a year to post! I appreciate all those who have remained interested in this story and for the kind messages you continue to send me. Hopefully it won't take another year to post the epilogue, but I make no promises!

Chapter Song:

State of Grace by Britney Spears.

One of Queen B's amazingly underrated bangers. So perfect for this chapter, ugh. I had it on blast. Also Britney is finally free from her conservatorship yas!

And of course, the theme song of the fic: Falling Together by the Mason Brothers.

****Rolls Credits*****