Here you go, kids. It took a while, but it is over 13,300 words so thank you for your patience. Thirty-six pages is a lot to edit. Get ready for one but two tortures. Get ready for the terrible Westergaards. Get ready for balls. Get ready for bro Ryder and pissed Honey. And get ready for…sexy times. Get ready. That's all I'm saying. I'm exhausted. Quarantine has got me restless and I was up till ten AM writing this, so there are probably mistakes despite me trying to find them.
Also, fun fact I've been spelling Vlademar's name wrong the whole time, it's supposed to be Valdemar…TOO LATE NOW!
I hope you all are staying safe.
Disclaimer: I own nothing except the stuff I create, and to be honest, Disney owns most of the things I love anyway.
Happy Solstice
Anna and Elsa make their way around the expansive castle to the throne room.
"Do you think any of them look like Hans? Do you think any of them are as heartless as he was? Do you think any of them brought their wives? Because honestly, that would be very rude considering they didn't tell us," Elsa listens to Anna's pointless questions because she doesn't know the answer. She had never made it to the Southern Isles on her tour as Queen. She had meant to. She was supposed to. Elsa sighs. She probably just avoided it because she didn't want to face what they were doing to Hans, but sadly, fate had a way of catching up to her.
"Elsa?" Anna pulls her out of her inner turmoil.
"Yes, Anna?"
"I asked you if you're ready?" Elsa looked to see that they were at the monarch entrance of the throne room.
"Oh," the door seemed bigger, more intimidating than ever before. Maybe it's because she knew who was on the other side. Maybe it was because she knew that the brother that they had tried to kill wasn't actually dead, and she was keeping him safe in her forest. Maybe it was because she knew of the horrors that they had done. No matter how she tried to spin it, the door was still terrifying her. She takes her little sister's hands into hers, "Anna, I need to tell you something. Something important,"
"Can it wait? They're waiting," Anna motions to the door.
"No, it can't," Elsa takes a deep breath, closing her eyes to gather her thoughts. When she opens them, and she sees Anna's face and eyes staring at her with concern.
"What is it?" She can't do it.
"Just let's treat this delicately. I know you weren't fond of Hans, but you told me that the cruelty he did to us was done tenfold on him. Let's just be cautious. I don't want them to think we don't trust them, but we're wading into unknown waters,"
"Of course, so are you ready now?" Elsa smiles and nods.
"Yes. Let's go meet the Westergaards." Anna returns Elsa's smile and opens the door, but as soon as her back is turned, Elsa's smile drops.
"Her Majesty Queen Anna of Arendelle and her Royal Highness Princess Elsa of Arendelle," the sisters enter the throne room and see the four bowing gentlemen and one woman curtsying at the bottom of the stairs.
"You may rise," Elsa is still amazed, all this time later, that Anna could sound so queenly.
"Your Majesty," the red-headed man steps forward. He is a dead ringer for Hans' brother, same red hair and green eyes, but older with a squarer jaw, "I am King Caleb of the Southern Isles. It is a pleasure to finally meet the two of you after these many years," Elsa feels a flare of anger shoot down her spine. However, she was a princess. There was certain protocol for her to maintain, but if she ever got that man alone.
"The pleasure is ours, Your Majesty," Anna curtsies, Elsa follows, "I'm glad that you have made it to Arendelle safely,"
"Lucky for us that the seas weren't too rough," Caleb smiles over at Elsa, causing her to cringe, "plus, we didn't want to miss the Princess' birthday. It would have been a shame to miss such a festivity,"
"Thank you, I hope you'll enjoy yourself, your Majesty," Elsa forces her most ladylike voice while addressing the vile man.
"As long as we are in your two's lovely company, I imagine we will. Let me introduce, my party," Caleb gestures for the young man to come forward. He has a strong jaw and green eyes like Caleb, but his hair is a dark brown like fine chocolate, "this is my eldest son, Prince Vlademar," Vlademar nods, "my brothers, Jurgen and Henrik, and my royal advisor, Lady Zilla," the remaining three smile and quietly greet the sisters.
"I imagine, Princess Elsa," Elsa's expression becomes more alert at her name, "that you and my son will have much to talk about since growing up you were both being trained to rule. Maybe you can give him so advice," Elsa gives an uncomfortable smile. Though she knew that she was a good Queen, Anna was Queen, and it seemed like a rude statement to say in front of her.
Vlademar steps forward taking Elsa's hand into his, placing a kiss on it, "the honor would be mine to spend even a moment in her Highness' presence." Elsa feels a chill run up her spine as he smiles up at her from his lowered position.
"The honor," Conceal, don't feel, "would be mine, Prince Vlademar." Anna watches the scene in confusion so neither of them notices the brothers exchange menacing smirks and laughs.
"Speaking of spending time together," the two Arendellian royals' attention is once again grabbed by Caleb, who steps just a little closer to the women while his son returns to his uncles' sides, "in our letters talked about an alliance…" Anna raises her hand.
"All business will be discussed after the festivities," Anna smiles over at her sister, "it's almost Elsa's birthday and that's the most matter,"
"Understood," Caleb silently curses and steps back to be in line with his son and brothers. "Until then,"
"Until then, indeed. Feel free to go enjoy the celebration through. Everyone in Arendelle has set up various things for visitors to do from chocolate tastings to games, so please go enjoy,"
"We will, your Majesty. Your Highness. Again, thank you for the invitation, we look forward to getting to know your quaint kingdom." The Westergaards and Zilla bow while the two women return the gesture.
"Enjoy, please, and we will see you at dinner tonight." Anna gives her best political smile and turns with Elsa to leave.
"If I may," Anna and Elsa turn back to Vlademar.
"Yes, Prince Vlademar?" Anna once again puts on her best poker face.
"I find the best way to learn about new places is for someone to show you. I was wondering if Princess Elsa would be inclined to join me," Anna looks between the Prince and her sister.
"I have…I mean…" Elsa feels a blush rising to her cheeks both out of embarrassment of being asked so publicly, but also because of her frustration of wanting to get away from this family as fast as possible.
"Birthdays are meant to be enjoyed, are they not? I know yours isn't until tomorrow, but you'll be preparing for the ball, which I know is no fun. So, come enjoy the day with me," Vlademar extends his hand, looking very regal in doing so. Elsa takes a deep breath and looks to Anna, who smiles and nods. Elsa knows that she's thinking as a Queen and not as a sister, right now, an alliance with the Southern Isles is beneficial for Arendelle, and to refuse him might hinder that even though she might want to.
"Of course, that sounds lovely." Elsa forces a smile and takes his hand, and he gently places it in the crook of his elbow before escorting her out of the room. Elsa takes one last look back at Anna, who is giving her a sympathetic look before she heads into the lion's den.
Vlademar was pleasant enough conversation. He spent the whole day trying to get to know her but realized that she wasn't in the mood to talk about herself. He was polite about it, so he talked about his mother, his grandmother, his three younger brothers, and life on the Southern Isles. Spinning tales of his time in the navy, and how he was so close to earning the rank as Rear Admiral.
"You haven't mentioned your grandfather," Vlademar tenses at the term.
"He's gone,"
"I'm sorry for your loss,"
"He was a lousy king. My father will make a better one," Vlademar hands place a holly crown on her head, and Elsa can't help but blush, "there, now you are Queen for the day,"
"I have been Queen for many days. Years, in fact," the two continue on their path.
"Why did you give it up?"
"It just wasn't the right place for me," Elsa smiles softly at the approaching castle, "Anna is a much better Queen than I could ever hope to be,"
"But all that power,"
"Power isn't everything. Did your uncle's deeds teach you nothing?"
"Hans was a fool," Elsa looks at Vlademar's profile, fingers itching to punch him, "he did a stupid thing and he had to deal with the consequences, but unlike him…I am not a fool, Princess," Vlademar stops and looks down at her.
"How can you be so sure?"
"I just know,"
"What happened to your uncle?" Elsa wants to know how much he knows, that way she can know how much she can hate him.
"What happened to him is not meant to be heard by ears as delicate as yours," Vlademar starts to walk again, but Elsa remains still, "are you not coming?"
"I remembered I have some business to attend to in town,"
"I'll escort you," Vlademar walks his way back to her, but Elsa holds up her hand, stopping him.
"No, thank you, it is something I have to do on my own. Thank you for the wonderful afternoon, your Highness." Elsa curtsies and leaves, leaving a very confused Prince in her wake.
Everything in the settlement was buzzing as they finished the final preparations to go to Arendelle for Elsa's birthday. Their formal Northuldran garb packed away. Hans twiddles with the box in his hand as he waits for Ryder to be done tying down his and Honeymaren's cart.
"Now, what did you want?" Ryder looks at Hans with a smile. He knew Hans was going to be lonely. Not everyone was going to the party, but a big portion of the tribe was making the journey South leaving Hans with minimal people to talk to.
"Can you give this to Elsa?" Hans holds out the box for Ryder to take.
"What is it?"
"A birthday present…for her…from me," Ryder looks at the box with curiosity, trying to figure out what's inside.
"Don't you want to give it to her yourself?"
"Of course, I do, but," Hans brings the box back to his body, thumbing the intricate pattern that he had carved on it. One of the Northuldran had helped him when they heard of his work with Otto. "But I don't know when she's coming back or even if,"
"She's coming back, Hans,"
"Yea, but when? This gift will be silly to give her in April. Hey Elsa, I know your birthday was four months ago, but here…happy birthday. Just," Hans sighs in frustration, trusting the box back out to Ryder, "please give it to her," Ryder looks at the box again, contemplating, but instead of taking the box, he smiles.
"Nope!" Hans looks at him in disbelief.
"No?"
"No, I'm not going to give it to her," Ryder starts bouncing around like an excited school child, "you are. Tomorrow night for her birthday,"
"Ryder, I can't go,"
"I can hide you," Ryder gestures to his cart, "and sneak you in,"
"My brothers are going to be there. Anna is going to be there. Ryder, that is a stupid plan!"
"Do you want to give Elsa her present?"
"Yes, but…"
"Do you want to give it to her yourself?"
"Of course, I do, but…"
"Do you want to see her reaction when she gets it?"
"Yes! Yes, I do," Suddenly, Hans himself slowly getting on board with this plan.
"Do you want to see her use in front of all of those other suitors, knowing that she's yours?" Ryder doesn't know what's in the box, but he imagines that Hans made her something that she could wear or use every day judging by the size.
"I do!" Hans starts to join Ryder in his overexcited bouncing.
"Do you want to profess your love for her when you give her your present?"
"I do!"
"Do you really care who is going to be there?"
"I mean…a little,"
"Well…are you going to let that stop you from getting your girl?!"
"No, no I'm not!"
"Then go get packed and then get in the cart!"
"I will! I still think this is a stupid fucking idea, but I'm going to do it!" Hans runs off to his tent.
"That's my boy!" Ryder smiles at the retreating figure and leans against his reindeer. The reindeer looks at him and Ryder smiles, "I love, love, too."
"What was that about?" Ryder turns to see his sister.
"How much did you hear?"
"Nothing, I just saw Hans running off rather excitedly," Honeymaren eyes her little brother, "what are you two up to?"
"Nothing," Ryder smiles causing Honeymaren to question him more, "nothing at all. Hans was just giving me a present for Elsa. That's all,"
"Where is it?" Ryder taps his bag, giving out a nervous laugh.
"Let's see it!" Honeymaren goes to open the bag.
"No! It's Elsa's present, not ours,"
"But I want to know!" Honeymaren goes for it again, but Ryder once again stops her.
"No! Hans entrusted it to me to get to Elsa so she could open it. Not nosy older sisters. You'll find out what it is when Elsa opens it,"
"Fine," Honeymaren lets out a huff and heads over to her tent, "I'm going to finish packing. Do you have everything?"
"Yes, I'm all set. Not that I need my little sister to check on me…"
"Did you remember your toothbrush?"
"Of course, I…" Ryder pauses and thinks about it, but instead of answering, he rushes to his tent.
"Little brothers." Within the hour they are off to Arendelle with Hans safely hidden out of view.
Elsa lays peacefully in her bed, unaware of her little sister and Olaf creeping into her room to her bedside.
"Elsa?" Elsa mumbled a response to her sister but turns over, still lost in her dream. The duo giggles before jumping up, throwing blue confetti.
"Happy Birthday!" Elsa's eyes shoot open as she lets out a surprised shriek before falling off the bed.
"Oh my god, Elsa!" Anna rushes around the bed and helps her sister up, "are you okay? I'm so sorry, we just wanted to surprise you,"
Elsa laughs at her sister's concerned face, "well, I'm definitely surprised,"
"Happy birthday, Elsa," Anna pulls her sister into a hug, to which Elsa returns with just as much love.
"Thank you, Anna," Elsa looks over to see Olaf still peaking up over the other end of the bed. She gestures for him to join the embrace, and the snowman gladly waddles his way over to join in, "and thank you, Olaf,"
"Were you surprised?" Olaf looks up at the blonde with a smile on his frozen face.
"Very,"
"Hurray!" Olaf spins around and goes to grab a nicely wrapped gift that they had placed on her settee. He giggles as he hands it up to her, and Elsa can't help but giggle because even though her little snowman couldn't blush, he was.
"It's from all of us," Elsa sits down on the bed, delicately unwrapping the blue paper. In the box laid a beautifully crafted blanket. The warm blue fabric had delicately woven silver strands in the think fabric. Elsa's fingers trace over the snowflakes that decorated the edges.
"Anna, it's beautiful,"
"Well, you kept complaining about the furs being too heavy and itchy for you, so I had Gerda sew up the blanket while I did the stitching,"
"For never wanting to be the typical princess, you were always so much better at cross-stitching than me,"
"We all have our talents, so you really like it?" Elsa pulls the full blanket out of the box, taking in the full blanket with the unity snowflake in the middle.
"I love it, thank you," Elsa pulls her sister close, hugging her tightly.
"Good," Anna leans back, smiling widely at Elsa, "because it is one of twenty-six!"
"What?" Elsa's face falls looking at Anna with a bewildered expression.
"A present for every year! Come on, your second one is waiting at breakfast!" Anna pulls Elsa along to the vanity to do her hair in an intricate half-up hairstyle with diamond pins and ribbons while Elsa makes an empire-waisted off-the-shoulder gown with translucent sleeves. As soon as she's done, Anna drags her down the stairs to her birthday breakfast with the gift of all her favorite foods, devoid of all guests. Elsa smiles at the tearoom setup.
"No suitors. No diplomats. Nobody but you, me, Olaf, and Kristoff," then on cue from around the corner with a strum of his lute, Kristoff smiles at her and begins to sing happy birthday. Soon Anna and the staff join in, Gerda approaching her with a vafler with candles sticking out of it, a motherly smile plastered on her space.
As the song finishes, Gerda gestures the vafler towards her, "Make a wish, your Highness." Elsa looks around, smiling softly at the love that was surrounding her. She holds herself tightly and thinks about what she wanted most of all, and the first thing that comes to the forefront of her mind is Hans. She just wants to be happy with him. She wants him here. Closing her eyes, she blows out the candle, and the room erupts in cheers.
"What'd you wish for, Elsa?" Olaf smiles up at her with wonder.
"Oh, um…well, you see…"
"Nuh-uh uh," Anna waggles her fingers at the two of them. "If you tell, it won't come true. Now, come on, let's eat! I'm starving." Elsa takes her sister's hand before taking a seat at the table. As she takes her seat next to her family, Elsa can't help but sigh. It wouldn't have mattered if she had said anything because there was no one way that he was going to be here.
Elsa looks in the mirror as one of the handmaids puts the finishing touches on her hair. Her platinum locks are done up in a beautifully braided chignon with blue ribbons going throughout, and with a flick of her wrist, tiny snowflakes glittered in the light.
"As always a beautiful touch, Your Highness," the young woman, Helena, smiles at her reflection and reaches over to hand Elsa her nineteenth present of the day. "Queen Anna asked me to put this in your hair. She had one of the finest jewelry makers in London make it for you, but I figured you'd want to look at it first," Elsa slowly unwraps the present and sees three beautiful small pins each a series of snowflakes. Diamonds, light and dark sapphires, and aquamarines decorating the intricate metalwork.
"They're beautiful," her fingers lightly brush over the pins, and she sees a small note on the inside of the box from Anna. Since there are three of them…these are presents nineteen, twenty, and twenty-one. Five more to go. Love Anna. Elsa had a sneaky suspicion that most of those five gifts were going to be pieces of jewelry. Anna had given her a wonderful birthday filled with more experiences than gifts, and experiences that for the most part were away from other people outside of their small family. The play and the huge snowball fight being the exceptions, but Anna had made sure that moments of solitude were given to her. From her solo lunch in the library to the additional hour of quiet afterward to the calm chess match that she had with Lord Peterson, the only man from the council that was palatable. Anna truly was is an amazing sister.
"Your Highness, if I may," Elsa looks back up at Helena, handing her the pins to put in. Helena takes care of putting them in before doing Elsa's makeup, giving her more neutral tones on her eyes and lips, a soft bit of rouge on her cheeks, and a touch of coal pencil on her eyelids. "Now, it is finally time for the gown,"
"I would have much rather Anna let me just design my own," Elsa stands up letting the ice chemise fall to the top of the ribbon-tied stockings as she joins Helena. She can't help but remember that dream that she had back when Hans first came back into her life as she looks at the dark blue silk gown before her.
"I imagine she wants it to last more than a night," Helena smiles as she begins to tie the structured corset, "it is a lovely gown,"
"It is," Elsa holds the back of a chair as Helena pulls the last few strings as tight as they can go, "I don't miss this though,"
"Is it too tight? I don't want you fainting at the party," Elsa stands and takes a few deep breaths.
"No, it's fine," next came the pockets, the under-petticoat, and the petticoat until it was finally time for the dress skirts and bodice. "If I don't die from not being able to breathe, I'll probably die of overheating,"
"Let's hope not, Your Highness," Elsa looks in the mirror and sees herself in the whole ensemble. Her shoulders lay bare with small cap sleeves much like Anna's dress from her coronation. The dark blue silk contrasts her skin beautifully, making her look like she was glowing. Dark silver and black snowflake patterns in pressed velvet decorate the front of the bodice giving a nod to both her powers as well as traditional patterns of Norwegian culture, and the pattern continues down the center of the skirt, but it was hidden by the silver layer of fabric. Elsa gently touches the layers, fanning them out from the dark blue silk on top, the slightly lighter blue layer underneath, and finally the silver silk at the bottom.
"Anna really knows how to design a dress,"
"You look perfect, Your Highness." Helena lays out the dark heels for her to slide into.
"Thank you." Both women turn as a knock sounds at the door. "Come in." Anna pops her head in and immediately smiles at the sight of her sister.
"Whoa, Elsa," Anna steps in, "it looks even better on,"
"Why thank you," Elsa returns the smile while doing a little twirl, "you look so beautiful, Anna," Anna's gown is like the one she had worn at her coronation. Long-sleeved, but this one was a soft pink with silk and lace.
"You look beautifuller," both sister's laugh, remembering their awkward moments in the past. "Is it too heavy? I tried to make sure all the fabrics were as light as possible since, you know, you normally wear ice. I know there are a lot of layers…"
"Anna, it's fine," Elsa takes her sister's hands into hers, "I love it,"
"Eek! I'm so glad," Anna turns to Helena with a smile. "Thank you for your service, but can I get a little time with my sister?" Helena curtsies while returning the young Queen's smile.
"Of course, Your Majesty. Your Highness." Helena quickly leaves the two sisters behind.
"Okay, present time! Oh, by the way, did you like the pins?" Anna scurries over to Elsa's chest at the end of her bed and quickly digs through it. Elsa touches the pins sitting in her hair.
"They're beautiful. Thank you, Anna,"
"Of course, it's your birthday," Anna looks over her shoulder smiling, softly. "Here they are!" From the bottom of the chest, Anna pulls three more boxes out. The sisters make their way to the settee, warmed by the fire, and Anna hands them to Elsa with a jovial nature.
"Presents twenty-two to twenty-four for you, birthday girl,"
"Anna, this is too much," Anna waves her off.
"Nonsense,"
"I better not get twenty-seven presents next year,"
"I guess we'll have to find out," Elsa laughs and unwraps the first gift. Inside the box lays a beautiful necklace that matches the pins in her hair. The delicate chain laced with the same gems; three snowflakes connected by draped strands of jewels with the center snowflake have a teardrop diamond hanging from it. The next present two presents were a set of matching drop earrings and a simple bracelet.
"Anna, you shouldn't have,"
"I didn't," Anna's fingers trace the necklace. "Mother and Father had them commissioned, I assume for your coronation or something,"
"But the pins…"
"I had the jeweler match the design," Anna's eyes meet her sisters. "I think they got them because they knew how beautiful your gift was even though they didn't say it, but I think that they knew one day that you would be ready to show the world," Elsa hugs her sister close. Letting some tears run down her cheeks.
"Thank you, Anna," Anna pulls back wiping away the tears.
"Anytime, now let's not ruin your makeup," Elsa laughs and goes to check in the vanity. Anna glides up behind her sister placing the necklace around her neck while Elsa puts in the earrings. "Now, all we have left is your crown and we're done. Are you ready?"
"As I'll ever be."
The Northuldran stopped to change into more traditional attire for the party.
"I hate these clothes," Ryder adjusts his embroidered belt for the fifth time in ten minutes.
"They're nearly identical to what you wear every day except dark red and yellow," Honeymaren rolls her eyes at her little brother as she continues driving the cart.
"No! They have this thing," Ryder gestures to the belt around his stomach, "and it won't stay where it's supposed to,"
"I'll pin it when we get the castle," Ryder looks around at the Southern landscape. He had been to the castle a few times in the last year, but he was usually driving or bringing a delivery back with Kristoff, so he never got to appreciate it. It was just a beautiful as their forest, just in its own unique way. Farms lined the road while friendly Arendellians waved at them from their homes. The Northuldran people were glad that the alliance had been mended when the dam fell, and he was happy to see some people coming into the folds of their tribe, walking and riding with them to the castle. He was also happy to see that not everyone was in super fancy ballgowns. Elsa had been telling him about her dress for the evening, and it sounded restricting and not very comfortable.
"At least I don't have to wear what Elsa is wearing,"
"A dress?" Honeymaren snickered.
"No! All the scruffy fabrics and tight clothes," Ryder sighs, "it must really suck being a royal,"
"I imagine it has its perks,"
"Yea, I guess but it seems like it's pretty restricting. I like our life in the forest. Enough structure that everyone knows what to do, but enough freedom to be able to find yourself and do your own thing,"
"It is nice, but remember that one time we came with Elsa for the coronation?"
"Yea,"
"And remember how comfortable those beds were,"
"Yea," Ryder smiles reminiscing about the feather beds in the castle, "okay, I would be a royal since you get to sleep on those beds every night. By the way, did Miss-I'm-going-to-storm-off-without-even-so-much-as-a-goodbye ever write you back?"
"No," Honeymaren looks onward, seeing the castle approaching, "she didn't,"
"Are you going to talk to her about when we get there?"
"I hardly think her birthday party is the place to bring up the fact I think she is behaving rather selfishly, and Hans is definitely a subject we need to stay clear of,"
"I know, I know, everyone has been informed. Are we there yet?" Ryder leans back, peaking under the blanket Hans is stashed under while his sister is distracted.
"Almost. Fifteen more minutes," Hans gives Ryder a silent thumbs up to show he's okay. Ryder smiles at his friend before righting the blanket and returning to small talk with his sister.
Ryder pulls the cart into the stables like Kristoff had informed him to do weeks ago. He looks around to make sure the coast is clear before helping Hans down.
"Ow!" Han grimaces in pain as soon as his legs stretch out.
"Shhhh!" Ryder pushes Hans down into the crouching position.
"Ryder?" Honeymaren pokes her head into the stable, "you okay?"
"Yea, just stretching my legs," Ryder laughs and shifts uncomfortably earning a raised eyebrow, "what?"
"Nothing, you're just acting weird. If you still want me to pin the belt, I recommend finding one,"
"Right! A pin! I will do that,"
"I'm going to go check in with Yelena," Honeymaren looks at him confused and slowly walks away from him, "come find me when you're ready,"
"Yes. Find you when I find the pin. Got it." Ryder smiles widely again.
"Stop being weird." Ryder lets out a breath as soon as Honeymaren is out of sight.
"You're playing it real cool there, Slick," Hans looks at Ryder, who only glares down at him.
"I could not help you, ya know,"
"You wouldn't do that," Hans beams at up at his friend, "because you love, love, remember?"
"Just because you're right doesn't mean you're right. Now put these on. I brought an extra costume for you," out of his bag, Ryder pulls out a nearly identical set of Northuldran traditional costume for Hans. Hans runs his fingers over the beading and notices its different than Ryder's.
"Why is this one different than the one you're wearing?"
"Cause that one's yours,"
"What?"
"Yea, Riiga made it for you," Ryder points to the bead-work, "the yellow represents the Northuldran tribe, while these little swirls are to represent you coming to us from the sea and these little snowflakes…well, I guess you can figure out what those mean,"
"And the red," Hans finds himself tearing up over the patterns. So much thought went into the tiny details.
"Your family of origin,"
"My family colors were blue and dark green,"
"But my family color is red," Hans looks up at Ryder with a look of shock, "if you don't think Honeymaren and I have adopted you as our big brother than you're crazy. Honeymaren might be the voice of reason and I might be the heart, but you, Hans," Ryder gestures to the beads tying off the end in the shape of a shield, "you're the protector. I know you would do anything for us,"
"Ryder…I don't…" Hans lets a few tears escape, but Ryder just clutches his shoulder.
"Don't say anything and let's go get your girl," All Hans can do is nod and smile. He pulls Ryder in for a tight embrace to which Ryder returns.
"Thank you."
"Anytime, brother, anytime." A quick change of clothes and a well-placed hood and cloak, Ryder sneaks Hans in through the back entrance, which was less guarded due to most of the guards patrolling the perimeters or the front. Good luck and don't get caught were Ryder's last words of advice before running back to join everyone. Hans takes a deep breath, but before he can go in, he hears a familiar voice in the distance. Hans crouches down and sees Henrik spinning a young woman around. Pressing her again the stable doors, whispering into her ear.
Hans couldn't breathe. The heavy black cloth above his face was soaking wet with the water that was pelting down on him. He tries to move out of the way, but his hands and feet were bound on the table. The water stops and Hans gasps for breath, but the reprieve from the flow didn't last long.
Five hours.
Five long hours of endless streams of water pelting down on his face. Hans feels the cloth lift from his face, his eyes blinded by the bright lights.
"Had enough yet?" Hans' eyes adjust to see Henrik's gray eyes staring down at him. His blonde hair immaculately placed, "ready to say mercy?" Hans nods, "then say it, baby brother,"
"Mercy," Hans can feel the tears tickling his eyes, mixing in with the dripping water as he looks up Henrik. Henrik looks away, pensive. Obviously thinking about something.
"Not good enough." Before Hans can rebuttal, the cloth goes back over, and the water starts again.
Hans shakes his head, wiping the memories from his mind's eye. He hears the girl giggle as Henrik captures her lips with his. Sonja is too good for him. Sonja was Henrik's wife and mother of his only son. She was a sweet girl from Corona, an heiress to one of their duchies since her brothers had all died. Henrik was set to become a Duke as soon as his father-in-law died. Hans looks down at the embroidery on his tunic and bed, letting a smile form on his lips. He got out of that toxic environment. He was out of a power-crazed family and had a loving home filled with support. Hans takes one more look at his brother before heading inside.
Elsa plays with the delicate petals of the white roses of the bouquet that Anna had gifted her. The pure white contrasted beautifully with the holly branches and evergreen branches, and Anna was giving her a long-winded explanation of the meaning behind the thing, but Elsa was trying to quell the sky-rocketing anxiety that was forming because of what was behind the doors.
"Elsa?" Elsa looks back at her sister.
"I'm sorry, I'm just…" Elsa takes a deep breath, "I'm just nervous. I'm going to have to do a lot of dancing, aren't I?"
"Oh!" Anna takes the bouquet and gives it one of the maids to have her go put in on their dining table, "that leads to the last present!"
"What is it?" Anna smooths her dress down and Kai pulls out some pieces of paper from his inner coat pocket.
"Dance tickets. Thirteen to be exact," Anna hands them to Elsa and Elsa can't help but laugh.
"What?" Elsa looks over the small tickets in her hand.
"One for every birthday we didn't get to celebrate together, so you just hand me one of these babies to me and I will take the dance instead,"
"Oh, Anna," Elsa pulls her sister in for a tight hug. "I'm pretty sure this is my favorite gift,"
"I know the party wasn't supposed to be this big, and I know it's been causing you a lot of stress even if you aren't telling me. I want you to enjoy your birthday, Elsa,"
"Thank you."
"Anything for you, Elsa."
"Your Graces," Anna and Elsa look over at Kai.
"Yes, Kai?"
"It's time for entrances. Lord Kristoff is waiting on the other side of the stairs to begin the descent with you, your Majesty,"
"Of course!" Anna looks over to Elsa, "are you sure you're okay with entering alone? Ryder is here if you…"
"It's okay, Anna, go. Your fiancé is waiting for you." Anna smiles, squeezing Elsa's hand one last time before walking over to the grand staircase.
Hans hears the music of the party, and he can't help but silently sneak into the ballroom and foyer to see all of the dancing and jovial nature. Swirls of ball gowns and dresses mingle with the stark nature of men dancing, and Hans can't help but reminisce on his many balls until a streak of blue catches his eye.
There she was. Looking as beautiful and regal as ever. Not one of her blonde hairs out of place. Hans feels his breath catch in his throat as a young man walks up to her, bowing for a dance. He watches Elsa smile, gladly accepting the man's hand. Hans looks away unable to stomach her in someone else's arm. He scans the rest of the room from behind a pillar, out of sight, and sees the tribe mingling with royals and Arendellians alike. Honeymaren and Ryder come into view as they happily chat with Anna, and as Hans scans his former fiancé, he can't help but feel impressed. She still looked like the naive young woman who he had hurt all the years ago in her pink dress, but the air around her seemed different. The way she talks and walks around the room makes Hans feel like Queen was the role she was born to play. Hans doesn't realize he's leaning out as he watches the swirls of colors below him. His eyes fall back to Elsa as she laughs lightly at something the man whose arms, she is in, says, he is grateful to hear the music stop. Elsa smiles politely as the man kisses her hand. He sees her breath is shallow as she wrings her hands together, looking around for what he can assume is a familiar face. Hans wants to run down there and take her into his arms, telling her that it was all going to be fine, but Honeymaren beats him to it. Honeymaren takes Elsa's hands in hers and makes her twirl around to see the expansiveness of the dress. The two friends laugh and smile as they quickly catch up. Honeymaren's eyes scan the room as Elsa converses with another dignitary that Hans recognizes from Geneva, and her brown eyes lock with Hans'. Her eyes go wide and she stares in disbelief at Hans' presence at the party.
"Shit." Hans mumbles as Honeymaren excuses herself from Elsa and makes a beeline for the stairs. Hans quickly rushes down the hall to another set of stairs, trying to make it to the library before Honeymaren catches up to him.
Hans quickly shuts the door behind him, leaning against it and breathing a sigh of relief. He looks around the room and remembers the last time he was in there. Flashes of Anna, freezing on the floor. Cruel words spilling from his mouth that he had no control over. It was like he was here but at the same time…he wasn't. He shakes his head, trying to rid himself of the images. He knows he isn't that man anymore. He was getting better. Hans tries to focus on his task at hand.
"Okay, Hans, now let Honeymaren search for a little bit, and then you'll go find Elsa's room. You know it's somewhere on this floor." Hans recalls back to his trip around the palace with Anna and remembers her gesturing to some door down the hall from the library that was Elsa's room. However, his inner thought process is cut short by the sound of approaching footsteps. Hans looks around panicked, and quickly takes a hiding space behind one of the floor-length curtains, making sure he presses himself as tightly as he can against the window.
"Zilla!" Hans' eyes go wide at the voice. "Zilla! I know you can hear me!"
"What can I do you for you, Duke Westergaard? It's Duke now right since I insured your brother's ascension to the throne," Hans can't place the woman's voice, and against his better judgment, he peeks out to see the scene in front of him. He sees Jurgen, facing away from him, in his uniform and hair done up with a woman dressed in all black, a scar over her left eye.
"I knew you had something to do with that,"
"Your brother made the deal; I just helped your father along. Is that all? If it is, I must get back to the party, little Elsa is just a sight to behold, don't you think?" Zilla smiles as she looks over Jurgen, who Hans can see is shaking because of rage. He always got angry when he drank.
Jurgen took another swig of wine as he picks up the whip. He stumbles over and Hans looks around the room from his bound and gagged position. All his brothers are here, smiling viciously down at him, while the twins stand on either side of their mother, keeping her in the sitting position.
"Okay, Hansy," Hans' eyes break from his mother's to look up his older brother, who is visibly intoxicated. "Now this what punishment number," Jurgen turns and counts the younger siblings, "number nine? Well, technically, eight, Runo's is not quite not done,"
"Eight-hundred and nineteen." Runo proudly smiles around.
"Oh," Jurgen smiles at Runo and then back down at Hans, "almost done, I see,"
"Get along with it, Jurgen, we don't have all day." Caleb chimes in from the sidelines.
"Anyway, we are gathered here today for Hans' ninth punishment,"
"I don't need to be here for this," Siobhan goes to get up, but the twins make sure that she stays put.
"Mother, you need to be here most of all. You always favored, Hans, and you need to understand that he really is the irredeemable monster that tried to kill the Queen of Arendelle three years ago,"
"I don't want…"
"I don't care what you want, Mother!" Jurgen glares at the redheaded woman, "it's what you need to see. It's what you need to hear. You parade around this castle like Hans is going to be saved, but he's not. He's never going to have any sort of redemption, and it's about time you see that." Jurgen takes downs the rest of his goblet. "Now, I think nine lashings of the whip for every brother should be enough, don't you think, Hans? That's one-hundred and seventeen I believe, but I'll just make it an even one twenty." The first crack of the whip echoes through the room, but as the punishment commences, all Hans can hear are the cries of his mother, so he weeps for her. Weeps that she has to watch.
"I know what you're doing," Hans is snapped away from the phantom sounds of the whip by Jurgen's accusation. "I know what you're doing to Caleb,"
"Besides giving him what he wanted and the most pleasure I think he's ever received,"
"I know that you're just using him to get Arendelle's throne,"
"He made that deal fair and square, Jurgen dearest, but what do you know of it,"
"Caleb gets loose lips when he drinks," Hans looks at his brother's back and from behind him, Zilla's gray eyes lock with his. Hans lets out a soft gasp before ducking back behind the curtain. He holds his breath, waiting for him to appear before him, pulling him out from his hiding space
"And you get violent, don't you? Caleb told me all about your punishment for Hans. You were supposed to stop at one-hundred and twenty, weren't you?"
"Shut up,"
"How many did you end up doing?"
"I said shut up,"
"Caleb said it was over two-hundred, almost three. Hans' back was so bloody and open that the doctors didn't think he would make it. Do I need to be fearful of you, Jurgen, how much have you had to drink?"
"That is none of your concern!"
"What is my concern?"
"Your deal with him is vague. I warned him. Your blood will mingle with their blood, that could mean anything,"
"Apparently, you didn't warn him enough. He signed the documents," Zilla touches one of the locks around her neck, "if he was too preoccupied with his cock getting wet than to negotiate for better wording, that's on him. I made the deal that would best suit me,"
"Because you can see the future,"
"I can see the future as it pertains to the deals that people make to me, nothing more. Nothing less,"
"You can't fool me, Zilla."
"Oh, but Jurgen, I already have." With a snap of her fingers, both are engulfed in shadows. The library has an eerie silence in it as Hans once again peeks out into the empty library. Hans cautiously steps out, looking around to see if they're just hiding in the shadows. The warmth of the fire on his back is suddenly gone, and Hans slowly turns around to be greeted by Zilla. She gently pushes him down on the couch, and quickly climbs on top of him, straddling him. Up close, Hans takes in her face. Her gray eyes. Long, silky black hair. Her beauty is a little overwhelming or it's just her presence that is.
"You're supposed to be dead," Zilla plays with his collar while smirking down at him, "you don't feel dead,"
"I'm…I'm not…"
"That's obvious, Hans," Zilla's hands run down the front of Hans' chest, "you're much more attractive than Caleb,"
"…thank you?" Hans takes her hands off him and tries to get out from underneath her. However, Zilla pins him to the back of the couch.
"Where do you think you're going?"
"I have somewhere to go,"
"Well, you're not supposed to be here, so where could you possibly need to get to?" Zilla's nose brushes his jawline before nibbling on his earlobe. Hans shutters at the feeling, but once again tries to get out of her grasp. "You dare refuse a Queen!" Hans once again finds himself looking at the woman above him. Anger in her eyes as she glares down at him.
"You're no Queen that I know,"
"My name is Zilla, Queen of the Shadows, and you are the not-so-dead Prince Hans of the Southern Isles. Now that we've done proper introductions," Zilla's hands venture downwards causing Hans to jump away from her. "Jumpy one, aren't you? Normally, I don't have this much difficulty seducing bad men,"
"I'm not a bad man," Zilla starts approaching Hans causing him to back up, knocking over the chess game.
"I guess you aren't. I suppose all of that was possibly my fault,"
"What?" Hans feels the wall press against his back as Zilla keeps approaching.
"What if I told you that I could make it all go away?" Zilla presses her body against him, whispering into his ear, "everyone would forget what you did to Elsa and Anna,"
"You could do that?" Hans' green eyes glitter with curiosity. A way for a fresh start so he could be with Elsa with no ghosts chasing them.
"I could, but," Zilla takes his hand and runs it over the locks adorning her neck, "every deal I make comes with a price,"
"What would be the price be?"
"Bed me, just once a month. I'm a Queen, after all, you really shouldn't refuse me," Zilla's eyes sparkle with lust as she palms Hans through his trousers. "Do we have a deal?"
"No," Hans sidesteps and starts inching towards the door, "I would never…"
"Oh," Zilla laughs, "the little prince is in love. How quaint,"
Hans feels a blush crawl up his cheeks, "I don't see…"
"You were so eager to ask for a deal…" Zilla eyes widen before a cackle leaves her lips, "you fell in love with that little wisp of Snow Queen, didn't you?"
"I…I don't know what…" Hans hides his face to try to hide his obvious distress.
"Now, that's irony," Zilla disappears in a puff of smoke and appears behind him, grabbing him once again through his pants. Hans tries to escape her grasp once again but finds himself paralyzed. "Listen to me, Hans, if you want to be with your little Queen without causing the biggest rift this kingdom has ever seen, I would take my deal. Be with your Queen and me."
"No," Hans elbows her in the gut and turns around, standing over the crouching figure. "I love Elsa and I would never do that to her. I don't need your powers or your deals to make anything happen. Whatever may come, Elsa and I will figure it out together, and unless you want me to tell everyone about my brother's plan to try to bed one of Arendelle's royals. I would recommend you don't tell anyone you saw my face." Hans quickly leaves the library, continuing his mission to get to Elsa's room without any more detection. Zilla seethes at the shut door, the anger boiling over as she quickly dissipates back to the party.
Elsa smiles into her champagne flute as the room of laughter and music continues in front of her. Anna had been a saint, taking nine of her dances already, from some of the older dignitaries, as well as, some less than attractive ones. She breathes in deep. She knows one day she will have to marry, create a good alliance between Arendelle and some other country, but she has a lot to sort a lot out right now.
"Hey there, Elsa," Elsa turns to see Ryder with a plate full of food. She and Anna had forgone a formal dinner, making it more of a eat when you want to style in the other room. Allowing people to take a break from dancing and fuel up on food and drinks.
"Enjoying yourself there, Ryder?" Ryder laughs while taking a bite from his bread roll.
"I am, but is the birthday girl supposed to be a wallflower?"
"I'm just enjoying the atmosphere,"
"More like trying to avoid the eyes of all the men trying to marry you," Elsa looks over at him with horror. "Oh, don't worry, Anna told us what was going on.
"I have no idea what you're talking about,"
"It's okay. I know who you have eyes for," a blush appears on her cheeks.
"Ryder, I don't think he is an appropriate subject to be talking about here,"
"Anna said his brothers are here. I'd like to give them a piece of my mind,"
"Ryder," Elsa downs the whole champagne flute, placing it on a passing tray. She was hoping to avoid the subject of Hans all night, "now is not the time,"
"Where are they?" Elsa rolls her eyes.
"That's his brother, Jurgen," Elsa points to a rather out-of-it Jurgen, "and next to him is Runo,"
"The cutter," Elsa tenses as she remembers Hans' words from the cliff.
"Yes,"
"I think I hate him the second most out of the thirteen,"
"Ryder, he's a Baron. Please, be respectful,"
"He tortured his little brother for four years. I have no respect for him, are those the only two here?"
"No, Henrik is here, but I don't know where he is," Elsa scans the room and her eyes fall on Caleb arguing with Zilla in the corner. "That's Caleb, the oldest,"
"I hate him most of all," Ryder glares at the older version of Hans.
"Ryder! He's a King,"
"And I'm a Northuldran, just like you, does that make him better than us?" Elsa looks at Ryder's passionate blue eyes.
"No, just those words can cause quite a stir here plus his son is here,"
"So?"
"He seems to be everywhere, and if he hears…"
"Elsa," As if he was psychic, Vlademar appears in front of the two, "may I have this dance?"
"Ryder," Ryder sticks out his hand for Vlademar to shake.
"Prince Vlademar Westergaard," Vlademar looks pained as he shakes his hand. Ryder's nose does a subtle flare at the mention of his last name. "Pleasure to meet one of Elsa's…tribesmen,"
"Best friend, too," Elsa smiles at Ryder's protective nature.
"Ah, but back to the question at hand, Elsa, may I have…" Vlademar extends his hand towards Elsa.
"I don't think…"
"It would be an honor, Prince Vlademar." Elsa takes his hand, throwing a sympathetic look at Ryder.
"Excellent." Vlademar escorts her to the dance floor, but not without a condescending smirk over at the man against the wall.
"Ryder!" Ryder tenses as he looks over at his sister, who is glaring daggers at him.
"Honeymaren, how have you…"
"Funny thing, I was looking around earlier and who do I see up on the balcony?"
"I don't know…"
"Hans!" Her voice is a harsh whisper as to not draw attention to the name, "do you have any idea how he got here?"
"Um, I mean…anyone…"
"No one else would risk sneaking him in here,"
"Look," Ryder turns to his sister, pulling her out into the main foyer, "I wasn't going to hand over his gift to Elsa. I told him he needed to do it,"
"Of all the stupid things…"
"She's been miserable without him. Anna was telling me that Elsa has been distant and moody. Having trouble sleeping and burying herself in the library when Anna doesn't have a task for her. This is going to be good for both of them,"
"It is going to be terrible if he gets caught,"
"He won't be. He's sneaky," Ryder looks through the archway at Elsa as the music starts and she curtsies towards Vlademar, "at least I hope he won't. For both of their sakes,"
"I hope you're right," Honeymaren punches him in the side.
"What was that for?!"
"For being stupid." Honeymaren turns on her heels heading back into the ballroom.
"I've been looking forward to our dance all evening," Vlademar looks down at the blonde with a smile, leading her in the waltz.
"Oh, have you?"
"Yes, I feel like our conversation yesterday left a bad taste in your mouth," Elsa follows his lead, spinning so they are side to side with their hands are behind their backs.
"You could say that,"
"I meant no disrespect, your Highness," They step forward and turn back towards each other.
"I imagine you didn't,"
"It's just I think power is everything for a crown to be successful," Elsa breathes a sigh of relief. He thought she was upset because of his comments rather than the cruel nature in which he talked about his uncle.
"Power isn't the only thing that comes with a crown, your Highness, a lesson you should learn before you take your father's place,"
"What else comes with the crown, my little Snowflake?" Elsa tenses at the nickname. Hans was the only one who called her that, it felt wrong falling from another man's lips.
"People," Elsa looks up at him as the waltz in the circle, "people who need you to do what is in the best interest for them,"
"What if that's not what's best for the kingdom?"
"It's important to find a balance, but usually what's best for the kingdom is best for its people. A good leader can always find the middle ground,"
"What if you want your country to be the greatest?" Vlademar's face gets closer to hers.
"What's the point of being the greatest if your people are miserable?" Elsa hears the conclusion of the music coming, and she can't wait to be out of this man's arms.
"What's the purpose of ruling a nation if you aren't willing to make sacrifices to make sure no one can claim it?"
"Those sacrifices should never be the people. No throne is worth people's lives,"
"That's where you're wrong," his lips are a breath away from hers, "a mighty kingdom serves no purpose without a mighty head and a subservient population to praise him." The final notes of the music ring out as Vlademar's lips crash onto hers. Elsa is so taken aback by hid actions that all she can think to do is push him away. Her force causes him to stagger back, bumping into another party guest. "Why you…"
"Elsa," Elsa feels Honeymaren wrap her arms around her as she takes Elsa off the dance floor into the entrance hall. "Elsa, are you okay? You're shaking,"
"I'm fine," Elsa extracts herself from the comforting embrace, "tell Anna that I went to my room and to not come looking for me,"
"The party…"
"Will go on without me. I need to be alone." Elsa dashes up the stairs without so much as a look back.
"Elsa!" Anna comes dashing out of the ballroom just as her sister rounds the upper corner. "Elsa!" Honeymaren stops her. "Honeymaren, I have to go check on her,"
"She needs to be alone right now. Give her that," Honeymaren smiles at Anna, "now let's go enjoy the party. Elsa wouldn't want to ruin anyone's good time,"
"But I…"
"Trust me. You can talk to her in the morning,"
Hans walks down the hallway of doors, peering in each of them until he finds Elsa's, the deep purple is a dead giveaway. He inches in quietly; the only sound being made by the crackling of the fire. He notices that the bed is already turned down for the evening, probably in anticipation of the Princess being too inebriated to call for it. He looks around, touching the odds and ends of the room when he notices on the bedside table that she had brought the snowflake that he had carved for her. He feels his heart flutter at the thought of her sleeping with it close by…thinking of him. Suddenly, fast approaching heels echo down the hall. Hans looks around panicked trying to find a place to hide, but the door opens before he can move. Before him, he sees Elsa, tears staining her face as she shuts the door.
"Elsa…" Elsa tenses at her name falling from familiar lips. She turns slowly to see Hans standing in the middle of the room wearing a traditional Northuldran costume looking more handsome than one person should. She feels her heart skip a beat as soon as her eyes fall on him, however, she is quickly overwhelmed with dread.
"Hans, what are you doing here?" Elsa runs up to him, taking his hand, and drags him towards the window, "if your brothers or Anna find you…"
"Elsa, wait! Hold on," Elsa stops and turns to him. He takes her other hand into his, both of them looking down at their joined hands.
"What?" Elsa looks up at him, blue eyes still glistening with tears. Hans reaches up and wipes away the faint black rivers.
"You look lovely even with coal streaks,"
"Hans," Elsa laughs and can't help herself as she falls into his embrace. It's warm and comforting. It's home.
"What happened, Snowflake?" Elsa burrows deeper into his chest which causes him to hold her tighter.
"Your nephew,"
"Which one? I have almost two dozen,"
"Vlademar,"
"Ah, he did bring Vlademar, as I suspected. Along with Henrik and Jurgen, I saw,"
"You saw them?" Elsa's dart up, but her gaze is not met by a panicked expression but a soft smile.
"I saw them, but they didn't see me. Henrik was too busy trying to bed a housemaid and Jurgen was arguing with some lady named Zilla,"
"She's Caleb's advisor,"
"Probably more like his bedwarmer, but I digress,"
"It's not safe for you to be here,"
"Au contraire, my dear Princess, I'm in the safest place I can think of,"
"Certainly, you don't mean Arendelle,"
"No, with you," Before Elsa can register what she's doing, her eyes flutter shut as she raises herself to place a kiss on his lips. Hans returns the kiss with increasing passion as his hand moves to her lower back, pressing her closer. Her hands quickly become tangled in his auburn tresses as they both stumble backward until her back hits the wall. His tongue flicks over her bottom lip, asking for entrance that Elsa happily gives. As their tongues do battle, Hans' hands drift towards the bottom of her ribcage, gripping tightly, earning a soft gasp from the Snow Queen. Elsa's hands quickly undo the belt and then drift to the bottom of the tunic, desperate to get it off him. To have some release from the pressure that had been building since he arrived on the shores of the Dark Sea. "Elsa,"
"Yes?" Hans helps her take the tunic off, so he is standing in his white undershirt. Elsa goes back in, but Hans stops her with a soft chuckle. "What's so funny?" Elsa is suddenly offended by his actions.
"Before we get too carried away, I need to give you something," Hans pulls her away from the wall, sitting her on the settee. "May I?" He gestures to the necklace adorning her neck. Elsa can't seem to find the words so she nods and turns so Hans can take it off. The soft-touch of his finger on her skin sends electricity through her, and the soft click of the necklace hitting the table startles her from her daydreams. Hans reaches into his pocket and pulls out the small wooden box.
"What is it?"
"Close your eyes," Elsa follows his orders.
"Now, I started making this the day after you left," Elsa feels the cold metal hit her skin.
"With the blacksmith,"
"Who told?" Elsa can't help but smile at the jovial tone of his voice.
"Honey,"
"She's a tattletale. I started making this the day you left," Elsa feels Hans try to move her and she follows his command. "I wanted to make you something that was as beautiful as you were, but also would mean something,"
"So, you made me a necklace?"
"Not just any necklace," Hans stops her, "now open your eyes," Elsa's eyes flutter open and she's met by her reflection in her full-length mirror. Around her neck is a small purple and green pendant with a hand-painted familiar gold crocus and laurel wreath on it. She leans in closer to see the gems lining the outside. Even in the faint light of the room, she can see that they are representing the colors of the four elements.
"Hans," Elsa turns back to him and sees him nervously looking at her.
"I wanted to make you something that represented every part of you," Hans runs a finger down at the chain and around the small circle, "Arendelle and the forest," Elsa grabs his shirt, pulling him towards her again, crashing their lips together. Hans' hands tangle in her platinum locks, messing up the elegant style. The passionate kiss quickly dies down to a series of smaller kisses causing the two to smile. Hans pulls away, running the back of his finger over her cheek, smiling, "does that mean you like you it?"
"I love it,"
"Happy birthday, Elsa,"
"Thank you, Hans," Elsa hugs him closely, losing herself in his embrace. "I've missed you," Hans places a tender kiss into Elsa's hair, relishing in her warmth.
"I've missed you, too, Snowflake," Hans hooks a finger under her chin and places a kiss on her lips, "I've missed you, too,"
"My birthday wish came true," she whispers between kisses, a smile forming on both of their lips.
"Oh really? You wished for me?"
"I wished for you to be here," Elsa takes off her crown, placing it gently on her vanity, and begins to remove the pins from her hair, gently placing the jeweled ones in their box. "I'm sad you couldn't come to the party,"
"It's okay," Hans walks up behind her, peppering kisses on her neck and shoulders. "I wouldn't have liked watching you dancing with all those men,"
"Ah," Elsa pulls the last pin and her blonde hair tumbles down her back. Hans coughs and spits as her hair gets in his mouth. Elsa lets out a laugh, turning back to face him. "You don't need to worry, I didn't like any of them,"
"Good," Elsa cups his face, placing another tender kiss on his lips. She turns back to the vanity and takes off the rest of her jewelry. Hans watches her in wonder, marveling in her beauty as she walks over to the washbasin, taking off her makeup. "I should go,"
"No," Elsa quickly whips around, grabbing his hand, "stay,"
"Elsa, someone will come in here," Elsa's hand shoots out, freezing the doorknob effectively locking the door to the outside world.
"There, now no one can get in,"
"Elsa," Hans kneels in front of her, picking her hands up and kissing them, "I don't think I should stay,"
"Why not?" Hans' eyes flicker up to hers.
"I don't want to rush things. I want you to trust me before you share your bed with me,"
"We don't have to do anything," Elsa bites her lips causing Hans to groan inwardly.
"Elsa, I want to," Hans puts his head in her lap with a heavy sigh, "I want to make love you more than I've ever wanted to before,"
Elsa runs her hand through his hair, "I wouldn't stop you," Hans head shoots up and looks at her in disbelief.
"You don't know what you're saying,"
"I do," Elsa brings herself down to his level, "I've been thinking about it for months now. I've had many dreams that are eerily like right now,"
"Don't…"
"Do you want to know what you did?"
"Elsa," Hans captures her lips, passionately diving into her essence. Hans lifts Elsa, arms folded under her behind, her legs dangling down. He gently places her down and lets their kiss end on a tender note. His hands caress her cheekbones.
"Just stay," Her eyes drift upwards looking with his green orbs.
"Okay," Elsa smiles and turns around.
"Can you help?" Hans steps forward, undoing the ribbons of the bodice. As the ties loosen, the bodice falls to the floor, Hans quickly makes work on the petticoat and pocket strings, letting them drift down to join the bodice.
"Elsa," Elsa turns back around, looking at Hans with lust-filled eyes.
"Yes?" She begins pulling at the strings of his pants, but Hans' hands stop her.
"I'm not going to deflower you tonight,"
"In what sense?" Hans looks at her in disbelief. "What, Hans? I may be innocent to the act, but I am aware of the ways of a man and woman,"
"I…I really don't know what to say," Hans lets go of her hands and Elsa goes back to her task, letting his pants join her clothes on the floor.
"Then don't say anything," Their lips once again commit themselves to the age-old dance. Hans kicks off his shoes while stepping out of the discarded pants leaving him in nothing more than his undershirt, his drawers, and stockings. Elsa takes his hands and guides them to the back of the structured corset, and he deepens the kiss as he starts to loosen the final ribbons. Elsa feels the corset slide down her body, and she takes a deep breath relieved at the freedom.
"Feel better?"
"Much," Hans and Elsa hear the faint music of the part, still going strong, distracting them from the task at hand. Hans steps back and bows to her, extending his hand. She smiles at the notion of the two of them dancing in her room of their underthings. But the dance would still be so reminiscent of her dances from earlier, and yet so very different. She actually wants to dance with him.
"May I have this dance?" Elsa laughs, covering her mouth.
"I don't dance,"
"Just one, your Highness, and if I disappoint you, I will make sure that you never have to dance again,"
"Well, when you put it that way," Elsa takes his hand, "I would be delighted," Hans pulls her close and begins to slow dance with her, pressing her close to his chest.
"Anna really has taken to being Queen," Hans places the hand, not holding hers, on her lower back, and then his head on hers.
"She's doing a great job," Elsa curls into his embrace, placing her free hand wrapping around his shoulder, following his soft swaying motion. "Mad you didn't marry her? You would have been King,"
"No, because I wouldn't have you in my arms," He feels her smile on his shoulder.
"I was preferable,"
"You still are,"
"Will I always be?"
"As long as I love you," Hans feels his eyes go wide as the words leave his mouth. Hans stops their movements and looks down at her, unable to find the words.
"Hans," Elsa looks up at him and sees the codfish-like expression on his face, "you love me?"
"I…I…" Her blue eyes beg for the truth, "I do. I don't expect you to return it. I don't want you to say it until you're ready. If you're ever ready or even if you want to say it,"
"I am fond of you, Hans," Elsa nuzzles back into his embrace, "but I don't know if it's quite love yet,"
"Take all the time you need, Snowflake," Hans begins their dance again, his hands running over the ice of her strapless chemise. "I will wait forever if that's what I need to do,"
"Thank you," The two lovers silently sway in the soft light of the fire as the music softly plays in the background. As the music ends, Elsa takes Hans' hand in hers, guiding him to the bed. Hans runs his hands through her hair, locking behind her head and bringing her in for a deep kiss. Elsa's hands wander to the ends of his shirt, pulling it over his head temporarily breaking their kiss, but they quickly dive back into each other. Elsa lowers herself to the bed, crawling back to the pillows and Hans follows her with hungry eyes. With a wave of her pale hand, her icy chemise disappears leaving her nude except for her stockings.
"Oh, dear God," Hans feels all of his blood rush south as he gazes upon her beauty. Elsa suddenly feels self-conscious and starts to cover herself, but Hans stops her.
"I'm sorry if I don't…"
"You're a work of art," Hans begins to kiss and nip at her neck, "a goddess. I am unworthy to look upon you," Elsa lets out little mews as he moves farther down, nipping at her collarbone.
"Hans," a breathy moan escapes her lips as Hans guides her leg upwards, so he pulls the ribbon and stocking away. The motion presses him forward, pressing his clothed erection into her womanhood.
"I want to spend a lifetime," He pulls off the other stocking, "worshiping you," his lips wrap around her nipple causing her to gasp. The soft suckle of his lips causes Elsa to arch closer to him, but the gentle tug from his teeth causes her to cry out. "Singing your praises," He switches to the other breast as his hands drift farther down. "Making you feel all the love I feel for you," Hans' hands skate over her heated core causing Elsa to let out a whine as his hands move past it to her inner thigh, touching her with tortuously light caresses.
"Hans, please,"
"What Elsa?" Hans looks into her eyes from his resting place on her chest. He sees her half-lidded eyes, blown out with lust.
"Touch me," Han chuckles, causing Elsa to mew as the vibrations travel through her breast. Hans sucks a little harder at her request.
"I already am," his tongue circles around her nipple lightly, but Elsa quickly threads her fingers through his hair, forcing his lips to encircle her nipple again.
"Hans," it's more a warning than a sigh, and his fingers gently run over her wet slit. A shuttered gasp leaves Elsa as he gives in to her request. Hans bites his lip and presses his forehead on her chest. He wants nothing more than to bury himself into her, but instead, he allows his thumb to begin to rub circles into her clit as he captures her lips with his. The tender ministrations earn soft moans from the small woman, and Hans allows one of his fingers to gently enter her. Her insides aren't cold, per se, but they provide temporary relief from the rising temperature. It's refreshing like finding water on a hot day. Hans wants to drown in her.
"Oh!" Elsa gasps at the foreign feeling. He had stills as he lets adjust to the feeling.
"You okay?" Elsa is touched by the tenderness and nods quickly at him. Her eyes dart down to his moving hand, watching his finger disappear into her body, over and over again, while his thumb continues to draw circles on her bundle of nerves. She whimpers as the pace picks up and Hans begins to nip at her neck and earlobe. "You feel so good, Elsa. God, fuck," Hans adds a second finger and Elsa grips his upper arms, starting to ride his fingers. "That's it, Elsa,"
"Hans," the breathy moan leaves Elsa's mouth.
"What do you need, Snowflake?" Hans runs his tongue over her nipple, biting it lightly before repeating the acting on its twin.
"I want…" Elsa feels the heat growing in her belly as she hears Hans' fingers entering and leaving her body because of her increasing wetness.
"What, Elsa, what do you want? I need you to say it," Hans looks down at the blonde, slowing his fingers down to an almost nonexistent pace. He leans back looking over her nude body. He marvels at her flushed skin and labored breathing. With the curl his fingers in just the right way to hit a sweet spot inside of her, Hans relishes in the moan it draws from her. Her back arches off the bed and her eyes flutter shut.
"Your tongue, please. Please use your tongue," Elsa's eyes snap open to look at him. Her eyes wander down to see the outline of his cock through his pants. She bites her lips and the sight, but Hans quickly captures her lips again
"As you wish, your Highness," Hans' lips travel down, leaving soft kisses and nips on his venture. His fingers leave her, earning a sad whine from the young woman. She watches as he sucks on them, and she swears she's never seen something so erotic. His eyes lock with hers as his hands circle around her thighs and his tongue darts out over her clit.
"Ah!" Elsa's fingers grasp the back of his head as she lets out a scream. Hans runs his tongue over her slit before sucking gently on the apex of her sex. He feels Elsa's thigh muscles tighten underneath his touch as she begins to succumb to the pleasure pulsing in her body. His tongue moves downward, drinking in the juice coating Elsa's entrance.
"You taste better the finest mead," Hans reaches up and moves his thumb back to its previous pattern. Elsa feels an unfamiliar bubble start to form in her belly. She feels tears start to form in the corner of her eyes as she starts to get fearful. "Hmmm," the hum causes another jolt of pleasure to shoot through her body. Hans looks up to see the distress on her face, "do you feel that Elsa? That pressure building up?" Elsa just nods, unable to form words. "That's natural. It's your body telling you it wants to let go, and you're an expert at letting things go, aren't you?"
"Yes," a quick gasp leaves her as her hips buck up to meet his mouth while her free hand grips the sheets, a thin layer of frost forming underneath it.
"That's right, darling, let it grow," Hans switches his fingers and tongue's position. He sucks on her clit as he gently pushes two fingers into her. He feels the slight flutter of Elsa's walls, and he knows that she's close.
"Oh God," Elsa's hips start to meet with his trusts, rocking with him in such a beautiful fashion. Hans picks up his pace, trying to get her to completion. Elsa keeps feeling the bubble grow becoming almost unbearable. "I can't…I can't…" Elsa feels the tears start to fall down her cheek.
"Let go, Elsa, cum for me," Elsa lets out a wail as she crests over the edge, and Hans drinks in the juices that rush out of her. As Elsa comes down from her high, she notices the thin layer of frost that has gathered on her ceiling. She's so mesmerized by the pattern that she doesn't notice Hans getting up to grab and wet the towel from the basin. He gently cleans her, and Elsa feels a rush of love in her chest as she watches him take care of her. Elsa tries to sit up but still feels like jelly. "Shhh, lay still for a bit. Don't rush yourself,"
"I'm okay,"
"Oh, I know," he cockily smiles at her as he gathers their clothes and undergarments up, gently draping them over the back of the settee. Elsa waves her hand, allowing the frost on the bed and ceiling to disappear without a trace, but still leaving the door frozen shut. She sees the bulge in Hans' drawers, and she can't help but feel a wave of guilt crash over her. He had given her so much pleasure and he wasn't allowing himself any sort of relief.
"Hans," Hans looks over at her and sees her crook her finger, silently beckoning him. He comes back to the bed to her sitting on the edge. He leans down, capturing her lips with his, and as the kiss intensifies yet again, Hans feels Elsa begin to pull his drawers down. His hands dart out to stop her.
"Elsa, no,"
"Please," Elsa looks up at him with pleading eyes, "let me help you," Hans' hands release hers and she finishes her task. Hans breathes a sigh of relief when his cock releases from its confines. Elsa looks up at him, and with shaking hands wraps her hand around him. Hans lets out a moan at the new pressure, and just from that and the fact it had been over four years since his last sexual act with another person, he knows he won't last long. Elsa's hand experimentally move up and back down earning a whimper from the man. She stops, looking fearfully up at him, thinking she had hurt him.
"No," Hans wraps his hand around hers, increasing the pressure of her grip, and helping her by setting the pace, "just like that. Fuck, you're doing everything right," Hans lets his eyes flutter shut as he focuses on the sensation. Elsa looks up at him and sees the pleasure on his face with his closed eyes and agape mouth. She looks down at Hans' erection and thinks about the pleasure he had brought her with his mouth. Elsa licks her lips and wraps her lips around the tip. "Elsa!" Hans tries to pull her off, but she slaps his hand away and takes more in her mouth. Hans bites down on his lip as he watches Elsa bob up and down his cock. The pressure of her tongue causing him to let out a shuttered breath. "So perfect," it's barely above a whisper but it causes Elsa to increase her pace, wrapping her hand around the portion she couldn't fit in her mouth. Hans' hand weaves through her loose tresses as he begins to shallowly thrust, trying to be gentle enough to make she doesn't gag. Her teeth run tenderly on the underside of his cock causing him to grip her hair even tighter, and to Elsa's surprise, it causes a delightful rush of pleasure rather than pain. The pleasure causes her to moan, which causes him to whine out her name. "I'm so close," At the words, Elsa quickens her pace once again, gripping the base of his cock a little tighter. Hans feels his thrusts become a little more aggressive, but he watches as Elsa takes him stride and slightly deeper. Her eyes flicker up to meet his and that's his undoing. He feels the familiar feeling bubble over, and he tries to pull her off him, but she refuses, taking his seed into her mouth. Love swells in his heart as she moves to kneel on the bed, making her eye level with him, and pulls him in for a kiss.
"Stay with me,"
"Always," Elsa crawls into bed and he follows her under the covers. He pulls her close so her head rests on his chest, and they both drift off to a night of peaceful slumber.
*eyebrow waggle*
I tried to do a lot of research into Sámi traditional costumes and turns out…real hard to find anything talking about the meanings of the colors and patterns. So, I found a small article talking about the beadwork and colors and ran with it as far as I could without sounding too inauthentic.
Also, vaflers…look delicious. I'm mad that no one ever made one in my youth.
Love,
KMA
