Hey everyone! Did you expect to see me again so soon? I've got something special for all of you. This was requested by SPARTAN-626 and is long overdue. I hope it's what they wanted and I'm so sorry it took me this long.

Slight warning, there are mentions of sexual assault, nothing gratuitous, but it's there so if that is a problem please be , the mentioning of the Catholic Church is purely for plot. It was a very relevant thing during the Medieval era and I used it a little bit but only for a historical plot point. Ok that's all, enjoy!

"What have you done?"

A tall blonde woman stood, dressed in a long silk dress and pearls with a small tiara in her hair, in front of her father, the king. Her face was horrified, as if she'd witnessed something she never should have.

The king stood, passive and solemn at his daughter's outrage, "Only what I must, Elsa."

She shook her head at him, "What you must do is cease this at once."

He blinked, his eyes growing sadder, "I'm afraid I cannot."

"Father," she breathed out, pleading with him, "Don't make me do this."

King Agnarr took a step forward and place a hand gently on her should. "It is what must be done," he sighed sadly, "For the good of our people."

"Our people?" Elsa asked in disbelief, "Have you not heard the rumors? They describe him to be a monster, something not of this world," she paused before her voice came out strained, "You can't possibly expect me to marry such a dangerous man."

The man just nodded his head, "You're right," then he leaned down to me her eyes, "But the man you describe is not the man you are meant to marry," he tilted her chin up to him, "The man I met is strong and can protect you from what I cannot."

Elsa stepped back, away from her father's reach, shaking her head. "No," she sneered, "This is about his armies and your money. It's nothing but a business to you, and I am but a pawn in the center of it all."

With that, she turned on her heel and stormed out of the room, anger keeping her composure until she closed the door to her chambers. Once the door was shut, she leaned against it, her back against the hard wood as tears began to flow down her cheeks.

She didn't want to get married. She wasn't ready, much less to marry a complete stranger. Sinking to the floor, more tears came from her as she realized her fate was sealed and there was nothing she could do to avoid it.

"What have you done?"

A woman dressed in black battle gear gawked at the man before her. They stood in a tent, battle plans, maps, and star charts littered on the few tables within. Outside, the clanks of armored men and the sounds of steel cut through the air.

The man stood tall, dressed in simple armor, but he did not need specialty clothing to stand out. His white hair shined in the fading sun and his green eyes pierced through the dimming light of the tent. "I do not need to explain myself, Sam," he said shortly.

"Danny, a marriage? You want to be condemned to frivolous courtly affairs with lords and ladies for the rest of your life?" Sam placed her hands on her hips and looked at her friend expectantly.

He sighed, "I'm tired of running away all the time. Of being chased out of town after town even though all we do is help people," he turned to his friend, "The kingdom's defenses are weak and vikings are targeting their outlying villages. They need strength. A marriage will force an alliance so great, that if the king dared to turn against us-"

"He'd be turning against his own daughter," she finished, "Security with the same routines we've always had," she sighed and smiled at him, "This is why, you're the leader, not me."

He couldn't help but laugh at her, shaking his head. But his laughter died out when his thoughts landed on his next challenge. "Now I fear the greatest battle of my life, and it's not one in which I can use my sword," he said solemnly before meeting Sam's eyes, "Meeting my future wife."

Sam's eyes grew sympathetic, "She's likely heard the rumors about you."

"Nor will she like the face that she's being forced to marry a nomad in a month's time," Danny finished, "My only hope is that we can be on the same side," he met her eyes again, "As soon as Tucker and Valerie return from their honeymoon tour, we set a course for Arendelle."

"Only the gods can help us now," Sam scoffed before she patted Danny on the shoulder and exited the tent, leaving him alone with his thoughts.

Tucker whistled as they arrived at the gates, turning to his friend from his horse. "Now this I can get used to," he said, turning to Danny with astonished smile, "How did you arrange this marriage again?"

Danny just laughed at his friend's attempt to lighten the mood, but it did little to ease his worry. Though he knew he was welcomed here, he couldn't avoid the stares and wary glances from the guards as he was allowed to pass, his private party joining him.

The hallowed halls of the castle were beautiful and worth recognition. Danny and his companions, admittedly, felt out of place. Their strong footsteps echoed on the marble floor, their swords clinking against their hips from their sheaths. "You ready to face your fiercest enemy?" Sam teased as they stopped at the closed doors to the throne room.

"Lighten up Sam," Tucker scoffed, "She's a princess, not a fire breathing dragon. She won't bite."

"She might," Valerie shook her head, "A young woman forced to marry a stranger before she is ready?" her disapproving gaze was cast on Danny, "I wouldn't blame her if she was the coldest, shrillest woman in court."

He sighed and shook his head, facing forward, "We're both making sacrifices, Valerie."

She glared at him, "Yes, but you had a choice in the matter, she did not."

Then the doors opened for them, allowing them to march through the castle's court and towards the king as they were announced. Whispers and hushed words floated into the air and the small party stopped at the foot of the king's throne, the seat beside him occupied by a woman. But, the party remembered their manners, and knelt before the king, eyes not yet gazing upon the royals before them.

"My lord," the king addressed as he stood, "Please, rise. For you are welcomed guests in my castle and a new friend to Arendelle."

Then all rose on command. "The pleasure is mine, your majesty," Danny smiled brightly at the man he'd grown so fond of, "To be welcomed into you glorious home is truly an honor."

Agnarr's smile widened at the young man's words before sweeping his hand to the side, "May I present, my daughter, Princess Elsa of Arendelle."

Danny set eyes upon his future wife for the first time and he was not disappointed by what he saw. A tall, proud women who stood with her shoulders back, a beautiful gown dressing her. But did not focus on her fabrics or jewels. His eyes landed on her sweet face. Gentle curves and soft contours of her face were framed by platinum blonde hair styled neatly on top of her head. Her cheeks were dusted a healthy rose and her eyes were vibrant blues against her ivory skin.

He was astonished, taken back even, but even he could notice there was a solemn air to her face and her eyes were cold. He was lucky he could compose himself enough to bow his head to her as she curtsied. He thanked that gods that he'd come prepared. "Your highness," he spoke gently, "If I may be so bold, I wish to present you with a gift."

A guard stepped forward with a wooden box in hand, opening it for her as he bowed his head. Inside, a set of earrings and a simple necklace sat on fur. They were simple silvery designs with medium sized multicolored gems situated in each piece.

"Alexandrite," he spoke up, "From the lands of Russia."

Elsa was astonished at the gesture. She had not expected a token from him right away. She blinked, watching the stones change color as the light shifted. "Thank you, my lord," her voice came out breathier than she would have liked, but she managed to bring her eyes back to those of her fiance. Those piercing eyes that reminded her of what the chambermaids had whispered about.

"Some say he's not even human. Perhaps a ghost or an apparition."

"I feel sorry for her highness. I wonder what child she will birth. That of this world or the next?"

"Will she even survive her wedding night?"

And just as soon as her guard was lowered, it returned as she backed up to take her place behind her father. He smiled at his daughter, very pleased with Danny's offering and show of kindness. "Tonight," he began as his voice boomed throughout the hall, "We feast, celebrating this glorious and proporious union."

The room dissolved into claps and smiles, excited chatter about the party filling the air as members of the court dispersed.

"Well, that was fun," Sam scoffed as she watched the hall empty in minutes.

Tucker nodded, before turning to Danny, "Your future wife… she seems…"

"Beautiful," Danny finished, watching as Elsa left with her father, "But sad. Terribly and miserably sad."

Sam nodded, "She does seem a bit somber. And she was so genuinely surprised by your gift."

He stared at the spot she once occupied before turning and beginning to walk out of the throne room. "Come on," he called to his friends, "Let's get the party unpacked and organized before the servants try to do it for us."

They all laughed before following him out of the castle and into the courtyard. They began to unpack their horses, telling the servants where to place or take things and helping getting the whole of their travel party settled on the outskirts of the castle. It was then that they noticed two ornate carriages pass by to travel to the formal driveway.

Danny perked up, turning away from what he was doing as his interest peaked. He shared a glance with Tucker before the two of them left the sight to follow the path of the carriage. They were discrete and ended up behind a hedge in a small garden orchard.

The two of them watched as the footmen began to unload many large trunks from one carriage. From the other, four women emerged, eached dressed in finery as they chatted among themselves. But what caught the men's eyes was the princess, who strode down the walkway with a few guards following her for her protection.

She stopped once she reached the quartet of women. The four of them curtsied to her and she bowed her head in return. There were a few moments of formal silence before Elsa burst into laughter, prompting the other maidens to follow suit. She opened her arms and they all pulled her into a hug.

"Oh I've missed you all," she smiled as she let them go, "Belle, Aurora, Tiana," her eyes landed on the short redhead, "And sweet Ariel." But she paused when she heard the clank of the last trunks being unloaded. She scoffed as she laughed, shaking her head at the golden blonde, "Aurora, those can't all be clothes."

She shrugged in response, "There's jewelry and fineries, too."

They all dissolved into laughter once again before the princess began to lead them inside.

"She looks so much happier," Tucker muttered as they watched her go.

"Much happier," Danny nodded, distracted by the wonderful smile on the princess's face

He knew why she was so cold earlier. He knew that it would probably take a long time to get her to smile like that for him. And he couldn't blame her. Before now, he too had felt some resentment for the woman he was supposed to marry. It was terrible, but to him, she was just part of the deal.

That is until he saw her, how she stood tall and proud in the throne room, a formal mask of pleasantness on her face and at first glance, she was like every other noblewoman he'd encountered. But when he got closer and stared into those eyes, there was a moment, when he'd given her his gift that her walls fell, and he could read the emotions shining in her eyes.

She was scared, unsure of herself, and angry. In that moment, he could tell that she was not ready to be married. He understood that, he wasn't ready either. If he could, he would like to get to know her before saying his vows, but he knew that wasn't possible.

He would give her the space she needed, he concluded. He'll talk with her when she wants to be spoken to and he'll be gentle and kind, for they could both use a friend in their situation.

So he watched her from afar as the feast was celebrated around them. She'd arrived with her ladies in waiting in tow, but he couldn't pay attention to them as he was once again thrown off by her beauty. Dressed in a stunning black and gold dress, her hair styled with golden combs, and her eyes guarded once again.

Danny's eyes followed her around the room, watching her reactions to every person she greeted. He wanted to speak with her today. Actually speaking to your wife should generally be done before the wedding.

"Valerie," he asked his friend who stood beside him, "How do I approach her without frightening her?"

She smiled at his sweet intentions, knowing her friend undoubtedly felt guilty about the princess's forced marriage. "Just be kind and gentle. Take her responses lightly if she's cold and be understanding," she advised before smirking, "You wouldn't want your pretty new wife to hate you."

He couldn't help but laugh and shake his head at her before slowly making his way across the great hall. The room was bathed in beautiful light from the lanterns that hung across the high ceiling. She was speaking to her ladies when he approached her from behind. The brunette noticed him, eyes widening as she nodded at the princess.

Elsa turned, surprised to find her finance behind her. Danny just bowed respectfully as was expected, "Your highness."

She curtsied back to him, but didn't say anything. Danny just brushed it of and tried to think of something to say to her, berating himself for not having a plan. "You look stunning, princess," he said genuinely, "Breathtaking, if I may."

She blinked back at him, "Thank you, my lord."

"Please," he held his hand out, "You may call me by my name."

She stared at it for a moment, unsure, before she delicately placed her hand in his, but she still said nothing. So he spoke again, "It would be the greatest honor if you would dance with me before the night is finished," he looked her right in the eye, "Only if you wish it, princess."

He leaned down to kiss her hand gently, the cool skin of her hand meeting his warm breath. The smell of rosewater filled his nose. He softly pressed his lips to the soft skin of the back of her hand. The act sent shivers up her arm as his eyes watched her the whole time. He let go of her before bowing and going his way.

"Good heavens," Belle breathed as they all watched him go, "Is that your finance?"

Tiana shook her head, "He doesn't look like a monster to me. And even if he did, it would be the good kind."

"Elsa, he's so handsome," Ariel grinned.

"Unconventionally so, yes," Aurora added before smirking, "But undoubtedly dashing."

Elsa's hand found its way to her chest, splaying her fingers over her racing heart. He had a talent for charm. She'd give him that.

But something more important than that caught her attention. His offer of a dance was given to her in such a way so that she could decide whether she wanted to dance with him or not. He gave her a choice.

So that night, she did not approach him for a dance.

The castle was alight with activity. Servants and planners rushing about to configure details of the soon to come wedding. Elsa watched the hustle with a heavy heart, her friends surrounding her, yet she felt very alone.

"Isn't it exciting?" Ariel beamed as she watched a group of women carrying beautiful fabrics.

Tiana clasped her hands together, sending a look towards the princess, "In a matter of days, her majesty will be a married woman."

"Let us not think about that," Elsa said dismissively as they rounded a corner, turning to face her friends, "For now, I wish to enjoy this rare moment of freedom." She met their eyes and they all looked restless. She huffed and turned away from them, "Fine, you are all excused to go oversee wedding preparations."

They all smiled, Ariel even squealed in delight, before respectfully curtsying and moving to return to the center of the planning. Elsa sighed in defeat but smiled at her friends' enthusiasm nonetheless. It helped lift her spirits, just a little, and now she was left with a moment of peace.

She continued to wander the halls, recalling fond memories from her childhood. Oh how she wished to be that young again, to have the chance to go outside and play in the gardens all afternoon. But back then, she'd wanted nothing more than to grow up. She'd prefer ballroom lesson over dolls and history for storytime.

When she was young, she dreamed of her wedding day. She'd imagined it so many different ways that she wasn't sure what she wanted anymore. Well, the fact was she didn't want to get married.

"Your highness."

Elsa instantly stiffened at the voice that called out to her. She looked to her left to find a man of the church clad in red fineries staring at her. "Your eminence," she greeted politely.

Cardinal Weselton, an old friend of her family. Both of their family trees go far back. He's been a part of the castle before she was even born. He's been her tutor, as per tradition.

She didn't necessarily like him. He was harsh and cruel, so traditional that he thought women obsolete. Elsa was taught to think that way, burdened by the poison that man poured into her ears and making her wary of him whenever he was near. Heis absence was the only good part of growing up. As she got older, he went away, for she no longer needed tutors. He has only returned for the wedding.

"I cannot help but notice," he began, eyes condescending, "That you have not consulted the text I left for you. One meant to prepare you for marriage."

Elsa blinked, feeling very meek in his presence, "Yes, well… I was just enjoying a bit of free time-"

"And what have you done to earn your free time," Weselton cut her off, growing impatient, "You should be bettering yourself in order to become the ideal wife. Submissive, timid, obedient."

"But-"

He bristled at her attempt to argue, "You question me?"

She practically shrunk back into the wall, her tall posture forgotten as her eyes met the floor.

"You are not yet under the command of your husband. You are still under your father's authority and until he has given you away, I am still your superior."

She swallowed thickly, looking up to meet his eyes, "I-

"Do not look at me! I am your lord and master!"

Danny and Sam had been walking through the halls, exploring the castle. "And did you know that during the Coronian War, the king had tunnels built that led all the way to the ports?" Sam asked, already having acquainted herself with the castle's library.

"No," he laughed, "I did not."

They stopped in their tracks, however when they heard a man shout maliciously. They shared a look before turning down the corridor that the shout came from. They found the princess and a cardinal nearly nose to nose. The man's face was red and he wore an expression of anger, but the princess looked visibly frightened, leaning away in the harsh grip that had her by the arms.

Danny's expression instantly hardened and he swiftly moved towards the pair, "Is there a problem here, cardinal?"

The man turned and eyed Danny up and down before he realised Elsa. "Only a small obedience problem," he shrugged it off, "But never fear, she will be ready and submissive in time for your wedding."

In an instant, Danny knew what kind of man stood before him, and from the look on Elsa's face, he had been here for a long time. He did not like it, not one bit. But, thankfully, he knew how to trick these kinds of men, though he feared he might frighten his future bride even more. An easy smile spread on his face. "What spectacular devotion you have, your eminence," he complimented easily.

Weselton bought the compliment and nodded in thanks, a small smile appearing, "Why thank you, my lord."

"Is it possible that I may request I train my own wife?" Danny asked, sending the cardinal a wink, "I have very particular tastes in behavior."

The older man blinked in surprise before nodding, recognizing that he was, in face, her future husband. "If you so wish, my lord," he gave a slight bow of the head before sending Elsa one last look and continuing down the hallway.

A soon as he turned the corner, Danny turned to Elsa, eyes soft and caring as he looked her over a few times to make sure nothing had happened before he got there. "Did he hurt you?" he asked a little hurriedly.

Elsa stared at him for a moment, not sure what to think before she shook her head. Their eyes met for a few moments before she hurriedly picked up her skirts and walked past the pair, nodding in acknowledgement at Sam.

Said woman scoffed as she watched the princess make a graceful exit.

"Sam," Danny warned

"You know I hate damsels in distress," she turned to look at him.

He shook his head, "God forbid someone needs help."

"She could have easily fought him off."

"She was frightened!" Danny defended her instantly, practically begging his best friend to understand, "I know it might be hard to believe, but not everyone can fight back as easily as you can. She's been trained otherwise."

Sam raised a brow, "And you know her all of the sudden?"

"No," he shrugged desperately, "But I'm trying to." Sam's expression immediately softened at her friend's tone of voice. "I'm not mad at you," he stated clearly, "But you are not making it any easier for me to try and accept this arrangement. Hell, the woman has barely spoken ten words to me and I'm supposed to call her wife in a matter of days!"

Sam blinked at her friend and finally realized how alone he'd felt all this time. His green eyes were desperate and calculating, trying to formulate a new angle to win the princess's trust with. And the princess, she clung to fear just as Sam used to when she was little, before she met Danny. And he was right, it was easy for her to rise when challenged and face any adversary head on.

A terrible situation indeed. Two separate goals that coincide for honorable reasons, but contradict one another.

It seemed that, to Sam, all Danny asked of her was a little support, and she had not delivered. She was blinded by her disdain for the court that she didn't realize her friend needed her. "Come on," she said as she grabbed his hand and began to drag him down the hallway, "If there's one thing that can make this arrangement easier, it's tiny loopholes that could help this marriage along."

Princess Elsa shared some beliefs with Sam. For example, the drawl of court was something that she did not enjoy. The constant politics, eyes watching her wherever she went, people judging everything from her shoes to the very last jewel she wore. So she stood off to the side at that night's feast as she dismissed her ladies, allowing them to mingle and meet new people as they pleased.

"Your majesty."

But a new voice interrupted her train of thought. She turned to find her finance's close friend bowed before her. "Mr. Foley," she nodded in return as he rose and her eyes instantly became guarded.

"Please," he smiled as he moved to stand beside her, "Just call me Tucker."

A small, amused smile appeared on her face, "Your people seem to deny most formalities."

"Well, when one mostly lives in a tent, formalities are the last thing on your mind."

Elsa allowed herself a small smile as she turned to look at him. His laughing eyes met hers, showing nothing but mischief. So, in a rare moment of bravery, she decided to play along. "I take it your wife does not like it," she joked.

Tucker scoffed, "Valerie? No, she could run circles around me if she wanted to. I'm the one that mostly waits for her to come home."

She paused and quirked a brow, the concept of the man staying at home and waiting for his wife to return was strange and went against everything she was taught. But she didn't swell on it long, for he continued.

"And she knows it too," he shook his head, rolling his eyes, "I mean, yes, she is a very skilled hunter, but must she remind me every moment of every day?" he threw his hands up with an exasperated sigh before a fond smile grew on his face, "It's one of the things I love about her."

The princess blinked at the man next to her. "Your lady love…" she muttered before staring at him, "You were married…"

"Recently actually."

"My congratulations."

"Thank you, your highness," he nodded before moving on, "Yes, she is my 'lady love' as you put it. I'm very fortunate to be united with someone I love," he looked at her with an encouraging smile, "Perhaps you can find a form of love for yourself."

Her expression immediately dropped and she turned to look forward, her shoulders back and chin up. She shook her head, "Love is irrelevant to people like me," her eyes became distant, "People who are so privileged in so many ways but that."

Tucker stared at her change in posture for a moment, "But surely, you can find some way to make it work?"

"I could try," she shrugged, "But I fear for my own safety once I'm under the complete and utter control of my husband," she turned to her head to look at him, "For you cannot begin to imagine what it is like to be a woman in this world."

That was the last thing she said before she was called by one of her ladies and she left Tucker alone.

Weddings were always meant to be a celebration, and marriage was supposed to signify unity.

Princess Elsa stood in the back room of a church in Arendelle, her lady's maids surrounding her, fixing and laying her white dress. Elsa looked solemnly in the full length mirror. A veil was placed on her head, flowers were held by her, and guests sat readily in the church. Her dress was beautiful, beyond anything she'd ever dreamed it could be.

It was the one thing she was allowed to pick

White pure fabric adorned with jewels, a flowing skirt, long elegant sleeves, exposed shoulders, her hair done up and her crown nestled perfectly in her blond hair, she was the picture of the perfect bride.

"Elsa."

Her head snapped up from the floor as her father called her from the doorway. He offered her a small smile, "It's time."

Elsa swallowed thickly as she waited for something, anything from her father. Words of comfort, an apology, assurance that everything will be alright. But she received nothing. She steeled herself as she took her father's arm and he led her out into the church.

She didn't care enough to take in the faces around her as she was led to the altar where her fiance stood. She couldn't really look at him much. She would be married to him in a few moments, bond before god, and tonight she was even expected to share a bed with him. She didn't even know him, where he came from, his likes, his dislikes, everything that made him himself.

So, she stared straight ahead as her father gave her to him, trying desperately not to cry in desperation. She had to force herself not to show weakness as she felt his hand gently take hers.

Danny was not very happy when he looked over to his bride, trying to offer some sort of comfort or understanding, but found her cold and guarded nature returned, not even so much as glancing at him. He began to get angry until he saw the unshed tears gleam in her eyes. He reminded himself of Valerie's advice.

Be kind and gentle. Take her responses lightly if she's cold and be understanding.

The ceremony began and all the formalities were met. Rings were exchanged, words were said, names were signed in the vestry and witnesses to see it all.

The patrons cheered as the king announced the crowned prince and princess of Arendelle. Danny took her hand once more, and turned to lead them out of the church. They were greeted by the citizens who shouted good graces and blessings on the two of them, rose petals and rice flying through the air.

Despite the noise and celebration outside on the streets, the carriage ride to the castle was silent.

It was all a blur and before she knew it, the princess was being lead into the grand ballroom of the castle to lead the first dance with her husband. She'd spent hours picking fabrics and organizing flowers, planning decorations, as was expected of her, but she could not say how everything looked that night. The only thing she could speak to was how detached she felt to the world around her, how utterly alone she was. Her only small comfort: the gentle hold of a man who she barely knew.

The feast continued and Elsa and Danny sat beside one another, the picture of a royal couple, tall, proud, and pleasant. They nodded thankfully when guests gave their congratulations and watched as other people enjoyed their wedding more than them.

"Danny," a harsh whisper cut through the small orchestra's song. The newly coronated prince turn to find Sam looking out of place in a dress beside him. She held up a scroll of parchment with a smug look, "I found a loophole for our rather pressing problem."

This seemed to lift Danny's spirits and a smile spread across his face, "And?"

"Loophole," she shook the scroll mockingly, "We're not catholic."

"You're a miracle worker," he winked at her, smile even wider than before.

She gave him a small bow before glancing out at the room. "Now your princeliness," she taunted him, "I'm going to go enjoy the free flowing wine and endless food." With that, she sauntered off, leaving Danny to laugh as she walked past him.

Elsa had watched the entire interaction shamelessly. She wondered what on earth they could be planning. Being raised in a Catholic kingdom, claiming not to be so resulted in pagan beliefs and rituals. Instantly her walls returned tenfold and she sat stiffly beside her revealed pagan husband as the feast carried on.

Then it came, that thing that Elsa dreaded more than anything else. It was time to consummate the marriage.

She'd been raised to be prepared for this. She'd known from a young age that her wedding bed would be witnessed by others, it was just the way of the royals. She thought that she had accepted it, but it blared in her face as she was dressed for bed by her ladies. They each offered comfort, or some wisdom, but it did little to settle her nerves or to quell the lump in her throat as she entered the room full of witnesses. It contained her father, his chancellor, her ladies in waiting, her husband's right hand men, the bishop, who read from the bible as she moved towards the party, and a few priests.

She could feel the older men, men not close to her father, men who simply weselled their way into this room, watching her as she moved, and for her own sanity, she kept her eyes on the floor. She closed her eyes and choked back more tears as the bishop's prayer came to an end.

"A moment, your grace," Danny spoke bravely as the bishop closed the book in his hands, "I have something I must bring to your attention."

Elsa looked up and met his eyes but he continued speaking to the bishop, "I am not a Catholic leader, something I've already discussed with the king," he gave a small nod to Agnarr, who returned it, looking a little relieved, "The act of consummation in the presence of witnesses is an action of the Church. I, however, do not practice the traditions of the Holy Church. My traditions perceive it to be something private and intimate to share between man and wife."

The old holy man blinked, "But your highness, we must-"

"Perhaps I was not clear enough," Danny cut him off before his eyes became dangerous, "Get out."

The king was the first to leave, giving one last nod to Danny and a smile to his daughter. Then slowly, as if by some miracle, all the witnesses left the room and it was just the two of them. Though not fully in the clear, a huge weight was lifted off Elsa's shoulders and she could breathe easier now, relieved. But with that relief, the tears finally spilled from her eyes and soft sniffles filled the silence.

Danny's face fell at the sight of her miserable tears, especially since he was most likely the cause. He carefully approached her and gently held her arms in his hands as a way to help her calm down, the warmth of his hands seeping through the thin material of her nightdress. "Dahna," he pleaded as he shook her head, "Please, don't weep."

She knew that word. Dahna, a term of endearment of his native language that had no translation.

"I will not share your bed tonight."

Her eyes widened and air left her lungs in an instant as she stared at him, questioning if he meant what he said.

Danny just shook his head, "Not unless you want me to," he paused, "And you very clearly do not."

His attempt at a joke fell flat when she sniffed, trying to regain her composure. But a hand on her cheek made her look back at him, a thumb wiping away some tears. "You are my wife," he said softly, before shaking his head, "Not a slave. I will not force you into something so intimate."

She was so baffled that she didn't say anything as he led her to the bed, simply letting him help her into it. Once she was in and no longer sobbing, he gave her a nod before taking a pillow and moving to a sofa that sat by the hearth in the room. "Goodnight," he called before plopping down on the cushions.

Tired, frazzled, and confused, Elsa found sleep easier than she thought she would with a stranger sleeping a few feet away from her.

The next few weeks were all the same as the excitement from the wedding died down. It was routine after routine, getting through the days as quick as one could. Elsa and Danny did not see much of each other. Danny was busy with the king in setting up protection and armies for Arendelle, and Elsa made no effort to pursue him.

Each night, when he returned to their bedchamber, she feared he would want to join her, but he never did. He simply took his place on the sofa and wished her pleasant dreams. She was grateful beyond words, but she knew better. Soon, people will expect her to be with child and she could not avoid it for long

"Your highness," a servant approached her, "The prince requests your presence in the library."

She knew this would come, just as she was beginning to think he was different from other men. Deep down, she must have known that he would grow impatient.

So she walked to the library, head held high and shoulders back as she braced herself for what she knew would come.

He stood by the fireplace, a smile coming to his face at the sight of her. They bowed to each other respectfully. As Elsa rose, her breath caught in her throat at the sight of his face in the warm glow of the fire. Her friends were right, he was handsome. But she pushed that thought away as he stepped towards her.

"Princess," he began stopping in front of her, "I have something to ask of you."

Here it comes. "Does it concern our marital bed?"

He let out a small laugh and shook his head. "No, it's much more important."

She furrowed her brow at him, fully thrown off by his answer. He watched her carefully for a moment before speaking again, "Elsa."

Her name. He'd used her name, not her title.

"We are married, bond before whatever force we believe watches over us," he shook his head, "Now, I don't expect to immediately be able to act as if we're married, but," he offered her a smile, "I would like to be friends."

Elsa blinked at him, "Friends?"

His smile widened at her astonished expression, "Yes, friends. I want to get to know you Elsa. I want to know everything about you. What you like, what you don't like, favorite food, your hobbies, things that make you you," he paused, "I can only hope that you feel the same way."

She was at a loss for words and quickly tried to form a response. "I would like it if we could speak to each other freely," she admitted, "To let this tension rest."

If possible, his smile widened even more. "Yes," he nodded, "I will say it now, you can speak to me about anything you like. Anything you are comfortable with sharing, I'm here to listen and, you may ask me anything."

Her interest peaked at the last thing he said. She took a moment before speaking, "I know very little of where you came from and who you are," she scanned him over a few times before continuing, "But I was told rumors, many rumors about you, and so I must ask," another pause, "What exactly are you?"

Danny knew this question would come one day. "If I knew I would tell you," he spoke honestly, "I am not man, I am not spirit, but something in between. All I know is that I am me." He met her eyes, sincerity shining through, "And that you have nothing to fear," he took her hands gently in his, "For as long as I am at your side, I will protect you from any harm, as a husband should."

Elsa felt her heart flutter in her chest and her words left her without her consent, "Thank you, Daniel."

He smiled at her before his expression became mischievous, "Now, I've told you something about me, it's only fair that you reveal something about yourself."

She had to fight her small smile that betrayed her ever so slightly, before she figured out what she wanted to say and her expression turned serious. It was something she'd thought about a lot and now was as good a time as any to say it to him. "If we are to have a child," she said, "I want to raise them outside of tradition. For I refuse to have another woman raise my child or engage them at six years of age."

He was surprised by her answer, but grateful for it nonetheless. "I would expect nothing less," he agreed, "I am, in fact, a husband outside the realms of tradition."

A small, closed mouth smile was what he received for his response and she nodded in thanks. She glanced at the time and then back at him. "Forgive me, but I have something I must attend to."

He nodded in return and let go of her hands. She turned away from him and made her way out of the library, but stopped at the door. "Chocolate."

He blinked, "What?"

"My favorite food," she explained, glancing back at him, "It's chocolate."

And with that, she left the library.

Danny was able to go through the rest of the day with a huge weight off his chest and he hoped the tension between him and Elsa would not return the minute he saw her again. Unfortunately, that night was long and full of work with the captain of Arendelle's guard, so he had no chances to test this newfound trust between them. He returned to their chamber well past midnight, exhausted and ready for bed.

He clumsily entered the room and shut the door, having dismissed the footmen. He huffed as he began to undress, staying in his night shirt and trousers. He was not looking forward to the uncomfortable cold of the sofa, but he paused when he looked at it.

There on the sofa, more cushions had been layered and a duvet was laid over top of them. A mountain of pillows awaited him and a plate of food was sitting for him on the table.

He glanced over to to bed to find his wife sleeping. He knew what this was, a peace offering. He smiled and made his way over to her, his feet carrying him without much thought. Her face was soft and peaceful, free of worry, like an angel's. Her hands rested by her face and her fingers were curled into her palms. Her lips her parted and drool pooled onto the pillow. Her makeup had been washed off and her hair was messy and unkempt.

And Danny had never seen anything more beautiful in his life.

She shivered slightly, curling up into herself to try and stay warm. He took the covers that had pooled around her legs and brought them up to her shoulders, tucking her in. She adjusted in her sleep, welcoming the warmth it gave her. He carefully reached down and brushed a strand of hair from her face.

"Goodnight dahna."

Elsa sat with Danny, Valerie, Sam, and Tucker in a drawing room. After a recent… accident regarding the English envoy, Danny was forcing his friends into learning the proper etiquette for court rather than a campsite. Elsa was the perfect teacher in his mind and it also gave him a chance to introduce his closest friends to her.

Admittedly, she was a little guarded at first, a little put off by Sam and Valerie's free speech and Tucker's manners, or lack thereof. But Danny was by her side the whole time, chiding his friends each time they got out of hand. After a while, they were beginning to feel more relaxed around each other until the king entered the room.

He barged in, unannounced, making everyone rise to their feet. But he paid them no mind, meeting his daughter's eyes. "Elsa," he spoke gravely, "Swedish ships are at port in Arendelle and they will be occupying the court for the next day."

Elsa froze in her place immediately and stared at her father. "Are you allowing this?"

"Treat them as friends until they prove themselves foes," he recited to her, "But I wanted to caution you in person before I go to greet Westerguard."

The princess bristled, "He's here?"

"Yes, along with the ambassador," he nodded before looking to the other faces in the room "Elsa, please, I must prepare for their arrival. Inform them why having Swedes here is… not a wonderful occasion."

As her father left, Elsa sank back into her seat, fear clearly present in her eyes. Sam turned to Danny. "The Swedish are peaceful, are they not?"

"Usually," he nodded, "But usually, when one is at peace, you don't storm the ports unexpectedly."

Valerie furrowed her brow, "But what could they want?"

"They want me dead."

Everyone's head turned to Elsa as her words echoed through the silent room. She took a deep breath before continuing, "A young Swedish Duchess has made a claim to the throne and their government is behind her, no matter how many holes her argument has," she looked up to meet their eyes, "They want Norway for themselves and Arendelle is the biggest target."

"So they're hostile?" Tucker asked.

Elsa solemnly shook her head, "Not outwardly, but there have been multiple attempts on my life. Poison, attacks, staged accidents. Swedish spies hide behind these walls."

Something clicked in Danny's mind, "That's why the alliance was so important."

She nodded before taking another breath, "At the age of seven, I was engaged to Prince Hans Westerguard of the Southern Isles of Sweden. I was to be wed to him at the age of fifteen."

"But your engagement was broken off," Valerie finished, "You aligned with our tribe instead."

Elsa nodded and gulped, "And now, I fear, they're here for my head."

The hall, that night, was full of Swedish warriors and diplomats, hundreds more camped on the shores of the city. They claimed two of their fleet shipwrecked and they needed refuge. So that night, they mingled with the lords and ladies of Norway. Elsa stood with her ladies, hoping to have some sort of protection until Danny showed up from his meeting with his army.

"Your highness." Elsa turned to find an ambassador bowing before her.

Now, she was stuck, for she couldn't be blatantly rude in fear of raising their agressions. "Sir Hugo," she smiled pleasantly, "I would like to offer my condolences for the lost men at sea."

"Thank you, your highness," the middle aged man smiled back before his eyes scanned around her quickly, returning to her in an instant, "And congradulations from myself to you. How is your marriage going?"

She nodded in thanks, "Quite well. We're very happy."

"Then why is he not at your side tonight."

Elsa felt her heart stop at the certainty in his voice, for it was not a question.

He stepped closer to her and spoke in a low tone. "You two spend very little time together for husband and wife," he pretended to play coy before his expression grew dark, "Your alliance is hollow, so pack your pretty friends and flee while you still can."

The princess stared at him in disbelief before an arm around her brought her out of her thoughts. "Oh darling, I'm so sorry I'm late," Danny appeared at her side, a bright smile on his face, "Though I'm glad I'm not more late, Olaf already looks like he's had far too much drink. We must continue our game. Every time he hiccups or burps, we must have one ourselves," he glanced at Hugo before nodding with a friendly smile, "Ambassador," but he quickly turned back to his wife, smirking, "I have another game in mind for you."

He pulled her away from the ambassador and into a corner of the room, pinning her to the stone wall. His hand braced himself against it as he stood close to her.

Elsa placed a hand on his chest to keep him from coming closer, "What are you doing?"

"Don't move, don't push me away," he took her hand in his and looked into her eyes, smile gone and jokes nonexistent, "You're shaking. You can't show them you're scared."

"H-He threatened me," she breathed, "Here, in my home."

Danny shook his head, "He's heard things and he's banking on rumors being true. We must prove that our union is strong."

She shook her head, "But it isn't."

"By the time we're through, they'll believe it more than they believe in god," he smirked before his eyes grew a little sad, "I know you hate me, but just for a moment, pretend you don't."

Her brow furrowed and she shook her head, "I do not hate you."

A small smile appeared on his face and he stepped back, holding his hand out to her, "Can you do this?"

She stared at him for a moment, her expression unwavering, "Absolutely."

"Then let's show these Swedes what for," he said as she took his hand, "After all, Arendelle is now mine to protect."

He led her out into the room to continue greeting visiting nobility. They stood by each other's' side and went about their business pleasantly with smiles and eyes only for each other. This was successful and went on for a while until Ariel had to speak with her privately for a moment. After they were finished, in the brief moment before she could make her way over to Danny, another Swede made himself known.

"Elsa," a broad shouldered red headed man appeared before her, charming smile on his face.

"Hans," she greeted, smile and all. Though internally, she was panicking.

His eyes scanned her over and he smirked at her, "How you've grown little mouse."

"So have you."

He nodded, "Congratulations on your marriage."

"Thank you, your grace," she answered shortly.

"And you have not yet entered the part of the marriage where passion is scarce and excitement wears thin," he raised a brow, "The part where you search for a lover? How would you like it if I visited you tonight?"

She stiffened, unable to meet his eyes as she couldn't find words through he fear. "You wouldn't?" he asked surprised before he shrugged, "That's alright, Hathar and Kreof will hold you down."

If possible, more fear welled up inside her and she immediately found a head of silver hair in the crowd. "Wait right here a moment," she told Hans politely, "I wish for you to meet my husband."

Elsa rushed past the prince and towards her husband. He caught her eye a moment later and met her halfway. She took his arm and turned to lead him back to where Hans was. "These men are pigs and I wish to be rid of them," she bit out angrily, but her voice shook with fear as she looked up and met his eyes and silently willed him to understand, "As far as everyone is concerned, I am no longer a maiden. That means I'm fair game."

There was no time for further words as they met the prince head on. "You must be the new prince," Hans addressed Danny, eyeing him up.

"You must be the old one," he responded easily, disguising it as a joke, but smirking at its implications.

Hans huffed out a laugh, unamused. "Tell me, your grace," he met Danny's eyes head on, "Are your people really as savage as the rumors or are you as bland in bed as they say you are?"

"Twice as savage really," Danny answered before he drew Elsa closer to him and smirked, "Do you know how us nomads make love, your highness? We seize our partner in an embrace and make love until she can barely walk. And you know you've done it right when she feels you inside her the next day."

The redhead seemed baffled by the response, not knowing what to say in return before he was summoned by one of his soldiers. With a barely polite goodbye, he left the couple.

"'Feels you the next day?'" Elsa turned to Danny with a look of disbelief.

He smirked at her before nodding off at where the prince had left them, "Fight fire with fire, my dear."

And she stared at him for a moment as her smile grew before she laughed, her shoulders bouncing as her eyes lit up with gratitude. Danny felt his heart soar at the sight before taking her hand in his. "Come on," he urged her, "We both need some food and you are not leaving my side for the rest of night."

Again, she smiled in return and followed him to the table for the meal.

The night went on without any more incidents aside form the few glares Elsa received from some soldiers. She left that night with Danny and his friends, watching as they laughed freely together. "Thank you for supporting me tonight," Elsa spoke as they all walked down the corridor, looking up at her husband.

He nodded, "Of course, Elsa."

She smiled, "Despite what you may think, court can be a scary thing."

A scoff sounded in the air and everyone turned to Sam. She shrugged, "Sorry, but the biggest problem I can see happening here is jewelry not matching gowns."

"Sam," Danny warned.

Elsa blinked at her, "You know nothing of the secrets these walls hide."

"I've seen villages pillaged, fought in war, and been betrayed by spies," Sam challenged, "Tell me, princess, what tragedies have you witnessed?"

"My mother is dead and my father has coined me off to a man as if I meant nothing to him," Elsa whirled around and bit out angrily.

The hall was silent for a few moments before Elsa's eyes grew dangerous, "The countless women who are abused everyday, who fear speaking their minds in case they may be struck, who are taught to do as their told and surrender themselves to others, those who live in a world where marital rape is not only allowed but encouraged, where the only emotion women have when at their wedding altar is fear of their marital bed," she paused and glanced at Danny, "Your friend spared me that fate," she looked back at Sam and nodded, "I know my duty, and one day I will give him a child when we are both ready. He is kind and good, but not all men are like him," she shook her head as something dark passed in her eyes, "You can't possibly know what it's like to hear the screams of a woman calling for help and not being able to do anything."

They all stared at her, silence growing tense in the empty halls.

"I am not stupid," Elsa growled, "I know I am privileged. I know that some people value my gowns more than the lives of low class families, but yield when I tell you this. It all comes with a cost."

She turned on her heel and continued to her chamber, leaving the stunned nomads to themselves. Danny turned to Sam and shook his head in disappointment before following his wife. He caught up to her in their chambers, letting the door close behind him as she turned away from him.

"Elsa, please, forgive Sam," he pleaded, "I swear to you she means nothing by it. She simply hates court in general and she truly does not fault you for anything. I'll-"

A sniffle is what stopped his rambling apology. Then another before Elsa turned around to reveal tears, her chest heaving at she looked at him through tired eyes.

"I'm not brave," she said shaking her head, "Or outspoken, I cannot fight for myself, and I have nothing to my name but accomplishments and standards of a princess, which I know means nothing to you."

He shook his head, "Elsa."

She hugged herself for a moment before looking at him with pleading eyes, "Danny, I'm frightened."

He rushed to her in an instant and did not hesitate to pull her into his arms, wanting to make her sadness disappear. "I know, dahna," he said as he rubbed her back soothingly and she sobbed into his chest, "I know."

Sam apologized the next morning and Elsa forgave her. The Swedish left without incident and everything went back to normal. The days soon grew colder and the castle grew alight with cheer as the Winter Solstice Festival arrived. People gathered in the square as snow fell freely from the sky, candles lighting every street corner and music filling the air while people danced and laughed.

Elsa walked through the empty halls of the castle, having been summoned to a private dining room. She wondered why, all the servants were given the day off to celebrate. She entered the room and found the fireplace lit and candles filling the room with flickering light. A spread of food, containing her favorites, was laid out on the table. And there in the center of it all, stood Danny smiling widely at her.

"What…" she breathed as she took it all in, "What's all this?"

"It's the Winter Solstice, yes?" he asked before shrugging, "I've never celebrated it but I know it's a big deal around here. I also know that your ladies had the day off, your father had a meeting, and there was a winter festival in town that you were not allowed to attend. I figured you'd rather not eat alone."

She smiled at him as he moved towards her. He reached out and gently took her hand.

"Happy birthday, dahna," he smiled adoringly before leaning down and kissing her hand.

She looked at him with disbelief as he led her to the table, "How did you know?"

"I have my ways," he teased as they sat down. "So," he began as they started to serve themselves, "Are we going to sit in silence, or must we force ourselves to play a game of questions?"

She softly laughed at him and shook her head. "I suppose we aren't quite in a position where conversation comes freely," she looked up at him, "Where's the furthest you've traveled?"

He paused and took a moment to think before he looked back at her, "China."

"You've been to China?" Elsa asked in amazement before clearing her throat, reminding herself of proper etiquette and conduct.

He let out a laugh at her adorable reaction, "Yes I have. It's where I learned how to use a dadao sword," he met her with a smile but found her staring at her food, eyes guarded and reserved. "Please Elsa," he urged her, "We're alone having dinner. You can speak freely whenever you're around me, or at any time you wish, for that matter."

Elsa met his eyes, uncertain, before she looked down at her folded hands. A proper woman never spoke out of turn but a proper wife did as she was told. "Tell me about yourself," he said, changing the subject.

She looked up at him, surprised, "What do you want to know?"

"Everything," he answered without missing a beat, "Your family, your experiences, your passions."

So, she told him who she was. The facts were easy enough to recite. It was when she recited a memory and found herself lost in it, eyes happy and bright, that Danny was truly learning about his wife. With each story, Danny found himself more and more drawn to Elsa.

He didn't realize it, but she was everything he could've hoped for in a wife. Intelligent, beautiful, and gentle. But most of all, she was innocent, pure. He liked it, it suited her, just as everything else did, and it was a different to him, who'd always had friends who could easily wield a sword no matter their gender. But it was also a weakness. From his short time at court, he could tell that others had taken advantage of that innocence and trampled her beneath their feet. He could also tell that she was more cunning than she allowed herself to be. It's a part of what made her so intriguing.

"Elsa," he spoke in a moment of silence, gaining her full attention, "There is something I must tell you. A development of late that I'd rather you hear from me than anyone else," he paused and looked away from her before sighing, "When the Swedes landed in Arendelle, the armies never truly left."

She tensed, "What?

"They're poised on the border," he explained, "Supposedly awaiting orders to attack, with the Duchess in tow," another pause before he met her eyes again, "And I leave tomorrow to lead an army and drive them out of your kingdom."

She stared back at him, shocked for a moment and silence began to fill the air, the only sound was the cracking of the embers in the fire.

He was sad to see her revert back to the cold, disconnected woman he'd first met, but he did not regret telling her the news of his departure.

"Why do you pursue me?"

Danny was brought of of his thoughts by her very direct question, a little thrown off as he met her uncertain eyes.

She shrugged, speaking matter-of-factly, "Any man I've known would have grown tired or frustrated or even bored at this point. You are not unattractive. If you were any other man, you'd already have a mistress at your side. It's be easy enough for the prince to find one."

"But you forget princess," he shook his head, "I am not just any other man." She blinked back at his response as he continued, "You're beautiful, smart, and kind at heart. And yet there is so much to you that I have yet to learn, that I want to learn and only time will allow," he paused and shrugged, "And you always smell nice which, to a nomad, is a very nice change."

She bit her lip to conceal her laughter, but failed miserably.

He smiled at her laughter before his seriousness melted away, "I have one final surprise for you."

Elsa huffed, slightly slouching her shoulders, "Honestly Daniel, if it's more food, I fear my dress will no longer fit."

Her looked at her, guilty, before pointing to a table set up in the corner of the room that she had not noticed before, ignoring how happy he felt when she used his name so easily. But she turned and just gasped at the sight. Another very full spread of food awaited her, all made out of chocolate.

She turned back to him with a slight glare, "Are you trying to make me lose my figure?

"I'm trying to make you smile," he responded easily. Elsa's breath left her all at once, staring at him as her smile faded away.

And from then on, the princess knew her fate was sealed and she was doomed to fall in love, no matter what she did.

That was the last time they would see each other for the next month and a half. At first, it had been easy for Elsa to go on without him. She thought that it would give her a break, some peace at last and time for herself, and in truth it did. She didn't have to worry about a man she never wanted. But as time went by, she started to notice his absence.

Danny, whether she liked it or not, had found a place in her life. He was a kind soul where most would turn on her, he had opted to be her friend instead of forcing himself into her bed, and he was a silent blessing in her life that she never knew she had until he was gone.

Soon, she discovered, she started to miss him.

It wasn't supposed to take this long, that was all Elsa knew of the mission. Her father would tell her nothing more, for fear of worrying her, which only frustrated her. Danny was supposed to be back by now, and she was beyond worried for his safety. So, she resorted to something she had resented for a long time. Her ladies flanked her on all sides as she marched hurriedly through the corridors.

"Elsa," Belle asked as they rounded a corner, "Are you certain you want to do this?"

Tiana nodded, "There's no doubt that he will be there. He'll see you."

Ariel chimed in, "And you've told us countless times how much you hate the church."

"Yes," Elsa nodded as she stopped at the castle's chapel doors, "I do hate the church. I hate what it's become, with its armies and money and indulgences. I don't even know if I fully believe in a Catholic god anymore," she paused and took a deep breath, "But I do know that I need a private, sacred place to ask whatever force is watching over us to guide and protect my husband," she turned to look at her friends, "At first I feared life wed to him, now… I fear life without his protection and friendship."

With that, she turned back to the doors and pushed them open.

Aurora leaned over to Tiana, "You owe me 50 krones."

Elsa took a place in the church and she did what she had not done in a long time, she prayed. She did not address god, or any other deity for that matter. All she did was humbly ask for Danny's safe return.

"Your majesty."

Until a familiar voice cut through her prayers.

Her eyes opened and she looked to the side to find Cardinal Weselton rising from a bow. "Your eminence," she replied shortly.

He stepped forward with a haughty air, "I must instruct you that while you pray, you must be on your knees with your hands properly folded and your head bowed."

Elsa stiffened at his instruction. It was familiar to her, like an ugly memory she would rather forget. After being treated so kindly by Danny, she realized that she hated the way this man spoke to her in a degrading manner, and, much to her horror, she'd simply gotten used to it.

You can speak freely whenever you're around me, or at any time you wish, for that matter.

Danny's words sounded in her head, driving her to turn to the cardinal.

"No."

Weselton blinked back at her, clearly offended by her answer as well as astonished, "I beg your pardon."

"I said no," she tilted her chin up and faced him, "I shall do what feels right. My relationship with religion is my own concern, no one else's."

He huffed, his face turning red as he stepped closer to her, "Are you questioning my authority?!"

"No," she stopped him dead in his tracks as she met him head on, "I want you out of this castle."

The man floundered for a moment, "But I am-"

"Insignificant," she finished, "I am now married and the only man I answer to is my husband. You are no longer needed in this castle."

"But I-"

"It is not up for debate," she harshly cut him off before she stepped closer and leaned into his face, glaring at him as she bit out a warning, "Do not make me repeat myself, Weselton."

She turned away from the baffled man of the church and strode out of the church, her ladies following her as they went.

"Where on earth did that come from?" Ariel asked with an astonished smile.

"We've been waiting for you to do that for a long time," Tiana laughed, "The look on his face was beyond compare."

Elsa turned and looked to all her friends, "I have never spoken to anyone like that in my entire life."

"Felt good, didn't it?" Aurora smirked.

"Undoubtedly so," Elsa nodded in disbelief before they all laughed, Elsa's more breathless than the others.

Cardinal Weselton left for the Vatican in a matter of days. After all, he didn't make any plans to leave at first, so Elsa had to begin to force him out, taking away his servants, restricting his privileges, and it finally paid off.

The princess's prayers seemed to be answered one day. Elsa sat at her vanity, reading to herself before Ariel burst into her room with a wide smile. "He's back," she announced excitedly, "The prince has returned with his armies intact."

Elsa rose from her chair immediately and rushed to follow the young lady into the hall. They were met by the rest of their friends before they all continued down to a grand foyer.

"How do I look?" Elsa quickly asked as they walked.

"Beautiful as ever," Belle assured her with a knowing smile, "And even wearing your husband's first gift to you."

She hadn't even realized it, but sure enough, alexandrite hung from around her neck and from her ears. It didn't slow her pace however and she continued to lead her friends until they stopped at the castle's side entrance.

A small group of the nomad's army was entering the halls, consisting mostly of their leader's close friends. Elsa and Danny both stopped short when they saw each other. He looked rugged and tired, some dirt on his face from the journey, but his unruly weird silver hair was a wonderful sight as his green eyes pierced her own.

He couldn't take his eyes off of her. He won't deny it, he thought of her while he was away. But as he stared at her and she stood in front of him, he pitied his lack of imagination and welcomed the stunning vision before him, not missing the certain jewels that she wore.

"Princess," he was the first to speak as he bowed at the hip, his party bowing a bit deeper. She returned the gesture but did not speak, her chest heaving slightly more than usual. He smiled ever so slightly and gestured to the boy that stood by his side.

"I brought something for you," at his nod, the boy opened the small chest in his hands and stepped forward. Offered to Elsa was two sets of jewelry, all made from fine metals and stones. "When we invaded the Swedish camp, a gift was waiting for the Duchess. Diamonds set in silver with sapphires," he smirked, "I thought they'd suit you much better."

Elsa stared at the sparkling stones that winked at her under the light. She examined them with a straight face for only a few moments before she looked back at Danny. Her eyes still on him, she reached out and shut the chest, gently pushing the servant boy away.

Picking up her skirts, she ran to him and threw her arms around his shoulders, pulling him down and kissing him, hard. Danny was beyond surprised at the gesture, but felt his eyes flutter shut at the sweet touches on his chest over his thin armor and her soft lips pressed fervently against his. He held her, truly held her, against him for a moment before she delicately broke away from him.

She stared at him, not taking her eyes away from his as she spoke, "Aurora, send word to the cook. We shall have a feast to celebrate my husband's safe return."

Of all the greetings for Danny to receive when he returned to court, this was certainly not the one he expected.

The feast was wonderful, and Danny watched as his men and women were welcomed into the Great Hall as heros. It brought a smile to his face.

He saw very little of his wife that evening until they returned to their chambers together. There was silence, each waiting for the other so say something. Elsa moved to the fireplace, staring at the flames with her back to Danny.

"I've never done anything like that before," she admitted in a sigh before she took a deep breath, "I thought that… if you went away, that I'd be happy, but…" she looked back at him to find him hanging on her every word, "But I wasn't." She shook her head, "It's there, it's always been there. I was just too angry to see it," she stopped and took another breath, "You do know what I'm talking about, do you?"

"Yes, I do," he rushed to her in an instant, taking her waist and cupping her cheek as he dipped her head back and kissed her. She melted into him and returned the kiss, welcoming his affection after so much time of being apart. She didn't realize how much she'd missed this.

He kissed her, over and over again, in his head making up for all the lost time they'd missed. As her breathing began to labor, he slowed down, stopping with a long kiss right under her jaw.

In that moment of passion, Elsa spoke her mind about what she'd been thinking for a long time, "Join me in bed tonight…" she stopped a soon as the words were out of her mouth, her eyes widening, "Not… not like that but… that sofa is not a suitable place to sleep, especially after your long journey."

Seeing the look in her eyes, he nodded. He knew what she meant. They kissed, nothing more, nothing less. If she wanted to wait, he would wait. He would wait forever for her.

He couldn't help but laugh as a gorgeous blush colored her cheeks. "Whatever you want, princess," he agreed before pressing a kiss to her cheek, making her smile.

They both got dressed for bed before dismissing their servants and turning down the bed themselves. Danny watched her hesitant movement as she moved under the sheets, and tried to soothe her.

"Relax dahna," he offered before a teasing smile crossed his face, "I'm not going to bite you."

It worked as a soft smile was his reward as she laid down beside him. They faced each other and there was only silence for a moment before Danny reached forward and took her hand in his, "Goodnight, princess."

Her shoulders relaxed and she smiled back at him, "Goodnight Danny."

They fell asleep side by side and woke up tangled in each others arms and the bedsheets. Was it love? Maybe, but love takes time. It definitely had the potential. The passion, the tenderness, the devotion. All they needed was time.

They had become friends after that night. Friends that kissed once, but friends nonetheless. They'd learned more about each other, shared more laughs and more awkwards moments. Enough to the point where they did seek each other out for pleasant company and could greet the other informally with a smile.

A few months of bonding and friendship lead them to this a moment when Agnarr left the castle with companies of men, both of his own land and Danny's, to meet a hostile message from the English at the shores. A time where Danny thought he and Elsa might have a chance to grow closer brought nothing but terror to the castle of Arendelle.

With most of the guards gone, Elsa and Danny did not realize they were under siege until Prince Hans entered the throne room with a small party of men.

"Little mouse," he smiled easily, "What a sight for sore eyes you are."

"H-Hans," she breathed in surprise before she shared a look with Danny, who stood by her side, "We didn't expect to see you back at court so soon."

His smile remained, "Yes, well, I expected to find King Agnarr, but I only see his heirs."

"My father will be returning shortly," Elsa lied flawlessly, smiling back at him, "At any moment really."

The redhead blinked in disbelief before scoffing and shaking his head, "Is that so? He's not on his way to the west shore to meet an English warship?"

Elsa's heart stopped, but she stood tall as her smile faded, not showing any fear and trying to be strong, "Then tell me why you are here, it is not a diplomatic visit."

"No it's not," he shook his head with a smile, "It seems I am due satisfaction."

She almost shook at his answer but restrained herself as Danny eyed Hans. "Perhaps we could postpone negotiations until the king returns," he said strongly, hoping to leave no room for argument.

"If I wanted to wait for the king, I wouldn't have camped in the woods for three weeks, waiting for Agnarr to leave," he countered harshly before a man entered the room.

"The castle is secure, your grace," the man announced.

He smirked and turned back to the pair, "This castle is mine, just as it should have been."

"Elsa, Danny! We-"

All head turned to find Valerie and Sam had marched into the room. They froze upon seeing that the throne room was already occupied by invaders. Elsa and Danny both stiffened at their appearance and shared a look.

Hans narrowed his eyes as his guards drew their swords, "And who are you?"

"No one," Danny answered quickly, "Just servants."

Hans gave him a look of disbelief, "Then why did they enter the room so freely and address you as such?"

There was a moment of tense silence before Elsa stepped forward, "They're my ladies' maids. We're close friends that we don't really use introductions."

He quirked a brow, "I met your ladies at the feast last fall," he tilted his head to the side, "Quite a lot of ladies' maids you have, Elsa."

"Yes, well," she gave him a look, "You of all people should know I'm high maintenance, Hans." She watched the men around them carefully and noticed them edging closer to the pair. "Girls," she called, a smile on her face but her eyes told them a different story, "Go upstairs and help the others unpack my gowns from Paris please."

The two of them nodded after glancing at Danny and curtsied before moving to go upstairs. "Now," Hans spoke, "Lead the way to the treasury."

Elsa nodded at him and turned to lead them out of the throne room and day the corridor. They followed and once Elsa entered the treasury and she made a beeline for a chest by the wall, opening it to reveal a plethora of jewels and gold. She stepped away as Hans entered the room with Danny and a soldier. "Is this enough to satisfy you?" she asked as he went to go inspect it.

She returned to Danny's side and he took her hand. "Are you sure treating this man civilly is the right choice?" he whispered, "I'd prefer the rude and callus way. Kick him out of the castle as soon as we can."

"You may be good with a sword, but I was raised to be a diplomat," she reminded him, "Keeping our cards hidden is the best way to get out of this alive."

"A generous offer indeed," Hans said as he ran his hands over the gold, making little clinking noises, "But it does not grant me satisfaction."

Elsa blinked and Danny watched in horror as a light bulb went off in her head. They may not share a bed, but he knew her well enough to know what she was thinking. "What if I… I-"

"You don't want money," Danny spoke suddenly, cutting her off, "You want revenge. So take me," he paused as he watched Hans's eyes light up at the offer, "Take me as your prisoner back to Sweden. Your quarrel is not with Elsa, it's with me."

She turned to him as her grip tightened on his hand. "Daniel, you… you can't," she shook her head, confused and blindsided.

"At last," the prince smiled as he stepped away from the gold, "An offer worth my while. And one that I will accept." He thought for a moment, turning to his guard, "I feel the need for a feast, a celebration before we leave tonight. Enjoy the finest that Arendelle has to offer," he looked back at Elsa, "You and your ladies must attend, princess, and your husband too. It'll be the last meal you share for a long, long time."

He didn't wait for her answer. He merely laughed as he left the two in the room. The instant they were alone, Elsa shoved Danny's chest hard. "Why would you do that?" she asked angrily, "Don't you know what will happen if you go with him?"

"Yes," he answered, "But I fear what he could do if I didn't go with him even more." His words echoed in the room for a moment before he returned to her and took her hands, "I've seen the way he looks at you, and you can't deny it based on what he said to you when he was last here."

She shook her head as she dropped his hands and cupped his face, her eyes glassy. "But, we've… we've only just…"

He stared back at her and nodded, "I know."

At that moment, a pair of burly guards entered the room and grabbed Danny's arm to pull him away from her. He ripped his arm out of their grip and glared at them, "I know how to walk." They backed down slightly and lead him out of the room.

As he glanced back at his wife, another man entered the room, "Your majesty I'm here to escort you to your chambers so you and your ladies may prepare for the feast tonight."

She nodded numbly and allowed him to lead her through the halls.

"Why did Elsa say we were her ladies maids?" Valerie asked as she and Sam stood with Aurora and Ariel in the royal bedchamber.

"Because a lady would be treated with honor," Aurora explained carefully, fear clear in her voice, "A servant they could abuse without an ounce of regret. And if the prince had found out that you were Prince Daniel's friends, you would be dead where you stand."

A knock sounded on the door before it opened and Elsa walked into the room. They all looked at her expectantly as she moved to sit down. "Where are Tiana and Belle?" she asked hurriedly as she noticed they were not in the room. Another knock before the door opened again, revealing the two ladies.

They bowed, trays of food in their hands. "Your grace," they both greeted as the door behind them closed.

"What happened?" Ariel asked as they all rushed to their friends, "And why are you two dressed like servants?"

Tiana and Belle shared a looked. "We were in the kitchen when the invasion happened," Belle explained, "Tiana wanted to cook so we snuck down in servants clothes."

"We couldn't reveal we were ladies, so we figured it would be best to stay servants," Tiana said, "We can't stay for long, they'll expect us back in the kitchen."

Belle nodded, "We just wanted to be sure you were all okay."

Elsa smiled at her friends, "We're alright. But take care, as a servant, you won't be treated well."

They nodded before leaving the room once more. "Well, that answers that question," Aurora sighed.

Valerie turned to Elsa, "How did the bargaining go?"

"They're taking Danny," she said as she sat down.

"What?!" Sam asked, sharing a concerned look with everyone.

Elsa shook her head, "He gave himself up to save me and the rest of the castle."

Sam shared a look with Valerie, "Of course he did."

"If Danny leaves with Hans, he will not return," Elsa stated, the cogs in her brain wiring at a fast pace, trying to think of something that could save him, "Not alive at least."

Valerie stiffened, "Hans… He'd kill him?"

"If Danny is taken out of the picture then I am without a husband and there is no heir to the throne," she finally met the two girl's eyes before she shrugged, "Who else would step in to fill the position?"

"We can't let him," Sam said defiantly, "His presence is a poison in the air and I say we rid ourselves of him."

Elsa straightened up at her phrasing, an idea coming to her. "Sam," she spoke as she stood, "Do you remember that story you told me you'd read? The legends of the Queens of Arendelle with their tonics and poisons?" Sam looked at her with confused eyes but nodded. A smile crossed Elsa's face, "Let's put them to the test."

She moved from the sofa and walked over to the mantle, taking a candlestick and removing the candle. She used it as a key, putting it into the side of the mantle and opening a small compartment, revealing a box. She returned the candlestick and took the box in her hands, closing the small shelf.

"This has been passed down in my family for years," she said as she sat back on the sofa, placing it on the table and opening it, revealing bottled liquids of varying colors and different materials. "A tool for the great women of my family tree."

Sam furrowed her brow as she read a label on a bottle,"'For increased fertility.'"

"Yes, Sam," Elsa couldn't help her small laugh, "After all, a woman's worth is based on her ability to bear children. We Arendelle women tend to cheat a little to ensure our safety."

Aurora gave Elsa a teasing look as she began to understand the direction of the princess's plot,"Your father would frown upon it."

"My father's not here," she answered, before looking back at the box of potions, "It's time I took things into my own hands, for the sake of my husband, my friends, and my people." She took a deep breath before continuing, "There's a passageway in the south hall that leads out to the stables, but we need a distraction."

Valerie piped up, "The prince's feast."

Aurora shook her head, "The prince expects us to attend his feast."

"If we're all there, he'll suspect nothing," Sam thought aloud.

"We'll keep the prince and his men busy," Elsa said, "And when our people are safe, I'll find an excuse to leave with you and explain your absence when I return."

Ariel shook her head, "You can't possibly be considering staying behind on your own."

"The princess of the realm in their power," she sighed, "Why would they expect a trap?"

Aurora shook her head, "We can't possibly do this."

Elsa stood, strong and proud, "I will go into hell for my country. How far would you go?"

They were all silent by her declaration and stared at her. "I have been trodden down by men my whole life," she said before shaking her head, "No more."

More silence before Sam nodded in agreement, "It seems that we will go into hell together then."

They were all dressed and ready for the feast as they were led into the room where Danny was being held for one final goodbye, the chance to tell him and Tucker about the plan.

"And you expect me to just sit and watch this all unfold?" he asked angrily.

"You will be a hostage at a table," Elsa said before shrugging her shoulders, "What else can you do?" She looked to the other man in the room, "Tucker is the only one who wasn't invited to the feast. He will stay by the passage in the south hall and lead the people out. First the servants, than my ladies and yours."

Danny looked up at her, "And leave you?"

"He wants me, Danny, no matter the bargain he's made," she emphasized before shaking her head, "Surely, you can't be so foolish to think he doesn't."

He was silent, having no response because she was right, that was what Hans truly wanted. "I've looked into his eyes, Elsa, and so have you. You can't expect me to just leave you with him, with my friends."

"If you do anything else, they will kill you, and the castle will be lost," she pleaded with him, taking his hand and meeting his eyes, "If we are to rule as king and queen one day, we must trust each other."

He stared at her for a long moment, before nodding. "Alright," he surrendered, "As soon as you we are escorted to the great hall, Tucker will begin to lead everyone out."

When she nodded, Ariel shook her head, shaking on her own two feet, "Elsa, I can't do it. Think of how angry they'll be when they discover they've been tricked."

Elsa smiled comfortingly at her, stepping away from her husband and going to the youngest of her friends. "We'll be gone before they do," she assured her.

"But what if it doesn't work?" Aurora asked as well, "What if he doesn't believe you?"

Elsa looked at both of her friends and knew what they meant. They had all been surrounded by greedy, powerful men their whole lives. They knew how these scenarios usually turned out. "I know what you are thinking," she nodded, "It's what any woman would think."

"Not just any woman," Danny corrected her.

She scoffed and gave him a look before turning back to her friends. She then noticed the slight fear in Valerie as she stood with her husband and how uncomfortable Sam seemed in a proper dress. "I'm telling you not to be afraid," she assured them, "I'll enter the room with you and leave with you. Just get through this night."

Ariel just stared at her princess before shaking her head, "I'm scared Elsa. It feels like there's a target on my back."

Elsa nodded and looked away, "I know exactly what that is like." She strode to the window to look out at the men gathered at the gates. "I don't think I've told anyone this story before," she said to herself, but everyone heard it. "When I was seven years old, my mother and I went to Sweden to organize peace, but our palace was stormed by independent rebels. My mother was killed and my title made me a target."

Valerie stared at her, "At seven years old?"

"War doesn't spare children," Elsa shook her head as she faced everyone again, "I was held hostage for a full year as they decided what to do with the young princess. Many of the soldiers, men just like these, they demanded that I be turned over to them so that they would-" She stopped and felt the weight of everyone's eyes as hers met the ground. She swallowed and took a breath, "So that I would be shared."

She watched as all the women in the room physically recoiled and the men's faces twisted in disgust. She drew a shaky breath and met Danny's eyes, "Now you fully understand my unhappiness when marrying a strange man."

Realization struck him like a sword, though in that moment he would have prefered that than to the pain he felt in his heart at the thought of Elsa struggling with something like that.

"Sometimes, I can still hear their laughter. That sickening laughter," she spat before she relaxed slightly, "And one day it stopped, and the door opened to reveal a battlefield and dead soldiers. My father stood above them all and he welcomed me into his arms." She met everyone's eyes, "I emerged a survivor, and so will you."

Ariel rushed to her in an instant and sobbed, holding her tight in a hug. Everyone in the room had grown teary eyed from her tale, how could they not? But they were forced to compose themselves as the heavy trodding of feet was heard from outside the door. Elsa turned to all the people in the room, "Now, are you ready to fight for your lives?"

They all grew determined and nodded at her before the door burst open and the guards stormed in to gather their guests. The group was led down to the dining hall and was greeted by Hans and his men. Elsa's eye immediately caught the shackles on the chair at the head of the table and watched helplessly as Danny was led towards it. "Hans," she turned to the prince, "Is this really necessary?"

He smiled proudly back at her, "All in the name of my satisfaction, dear Elsa."

She fumed but hid it behind a smile as everyone took their seats, "Then maybe this will aid your satisfaction." She gestured to Tiana and Belle, still dressed as servants, who then proceeded to carry a chest to the table and set it on the end. "Gentlemen," she addressed all of them as she opened the chest to reveal gold, "My gift to you."

Hans nodded in appreciation and the men all scrambled out of their seats to greedily grab at the gold coins awaiting them. Elsa then took her seat beside Hans as the meal began. They all ate and drank together, except for Danny, who was silently denied any food or drink. Eventually clock chimed, its gongs ringing throughout the castle. As the last deep tone sounded out Elsa made eye contact with Danny before turning to lean in to Hans.

"Highness," Elsa whispered, her breath uneven and irregular, "I-I'm afraid I'm feeling a little… straightlaced."

He furrowed his brow, "I beg your pardon."

She cleared her throat, beginning to pant, "It's difficult to breathe."

"Are you ill, little mouse?" he asked, seemingly concerned.

"No, my lord," she sighed and leaned in closer, "It's my…" she whispered the last word, "corset."

He leaned away, obviously flustered by this information. "Perhaps," he cleared his throat, "You should retire until the… problem is addressed."

She smiled at him gratefully, "Thank you, my lord. My ladies will attend to me." She stood, prompting them all to stand and leave with her.

The five women all hurried through the empty corridors to the south hall, gathering along the wall. Elsa went to the panel with the passageway entrance and knocked twice. When nothing happened, she knocked again.

"Is this the right panel?" Sam asked.

Elsa nodded, "It can only be opened from the inside. Where's Tucker?" She knocked a bit more frantically and even tried to softly call his name.

Valerie shook her head, "Something's wrong. He wouldn't just abandon us."

"No," Elsa agreed, "He must still be with the servants."

Just then, one of Hans's guards rounded the corner. He stared at them for a moment before looking to Elsa, "Prince Hans sent me to find you."

"Yes," she smiled easily, "We were just on our way back." She moved past the guard back to the dining hall, the ladies hesitating before following her. When they re-entered the hall, Danny immediately stiffened at the sight of everyone, knowing something must have gone wrong.

"Prince Hans," he addressed the man as the girls stayed standing, "Isn't this enough?" When Hans just stared back at him, his eyes hardened, "You know, the king will go to war over this."

Hans shrugged as he stood, "What of it? Can the king give me what he promised since I was a child?" when there was silence Hans drew a knife, "Then let the heavens fall," he waltzed over to Danny's chair, the tension in the air immeasurable, and held the blade up to his neck, making everyone in the room freeze. Hans growled as he glared at Danny with nothing but hate, "I don't even know if I have it in me to wait to kill you."

"Hans, please," Elsa spoke up from the other side of the table, "Don't take my husband. What else can I give you?"

"Your heart, carve it out and hand it to me so that we may understand each other," he slammed his knife down on the table so hard it shook and everyone, including his own men, jumped, "So that you can understand how betrayed I felt when what was rightfully mine was taken and given to someone else. That's diplomacy," he said, then became calm as he strode around the table to where Elsa stood, "Understanding one another."

She backed up in an effort to protect the Ariel, and held her, no longer meeting Hans's gaze as he walked towards her. The girls stiffened and clung to each other and Danny could only watch with clenched fists and jaw as Hans moved to stand next to Elsa, so close his breath touched her. "Forgive me Elsa," he said lowly as the other men stood and eyed the other girls, "For I am not a gentle man."

Ariel was the first to scream when she was yanked away from Elsa's protective grip. The princess reached out to grab for her friend but was pulled away and slammed into the wall, a hand around her throat trapping her there. The other girls were each seized by one man or more. Elsa watched helplessly as Aurora was thrown to the floor and beaten.

"Stop!" she cried, "Stop! You beasts, have you no honor?!"

The sight was beyond horrible for Danny to witness and his eyes soon found the knife that sat near him on the table. He grabbed it, thinking to use it on his shackles, but panicked when Elsa screamed and instead threw it at Han's head. Unfortunately, he forgot to account for his shackle's limits and missed him.

Hans's head turned to glare at Danny, giving Elsa the chance to violently push him away from her and into the end of the table, causing the chest of gold to fall and spill onto the floor as she grabbed the knife. She snatched a glass goblet from the table and smashed it against the wall while shouting, "Prince Hans!" Everything in the room came to suddenly halt.

"Do you want to know why our arrangement was broken? Because of you!" she spat at him before her voice became quieter and even more dangerous, "Because, unlike me, you aren't willing to take the necessary risks. So, I will make you a new offer," she glanced back at the girls, "Order your men away from my ladies," she looked back at him, "And I'll let you leave with your life."

He smirked, clearly amused before the sounds of choking filled the room. "My lord," some men called out in a frenzy as they all began to bleed from the nose and ears. One by one, they collapsed, coughing and struggling, freeing all the girls who stared in confusion and awe as the men all died before them.

"No," Hans shook his head, examining the scene, "No, we…" he looked back at Elsa, "We ate the same food… and we drank my wine."

She narrowed her eyes at him, "Poison is an art, and the essence of art is surprise."

Danny watched her carefully before it clicked in his mind. "The gold," he muttered aloud, glancing at the spilled contents of the chest on the floor.

Hans looked down at it for a moment before shaking his head at Elsa. "I never touched your gold," he drew his sword, "Little mouse."

He charged at her, but the she thought quickly and sidestepped him. She, on some unknown instinct, grabbed his collar and slit his throat in one fluid motion. He gagged as blood stained his clothes and he feel to the floor. Thrashing a bit before finally stilling, the pool of blood on the floor grew bigger by the minute.

Valerie and Sam rushed to Danny and easily got the shackles off of him. But he rushed to Elsa, who was braced against the wall, trying to calm her rapid heart. "Elsa," he asked as he reached for her, "Are you alright?"

"I'm fine," she said shortly nodding to her friend, "Help Aurora to the infirmary."

"Are you-"

"Yes, now please take her to get some help," she commanded sternly.

He nodded at her and backed away, moving towards the poor sobbing and bruised girl. "Come on Aurora," he said gently as he lifted her arm around his shoulder so she could walk easier, "Take my arm. It's alright."

Elsa couldn't move, and she found that the room was spinning as she began to shake. Sam rushed to her side as the princess became unsteady on her legs. "It's over Elsa," she assured her, "You can breathe now, deep breaths, in and out."

The princess nodded and took Sam's offered hand, beginning to do as she was told. "Killing someone is not supposed to be easy," Sam said, "If your hands weren't shaking, you'd be him." Elsa nodded, her panting starting to slow.

A few minutes of silence passed as Elsa began to calm down. Danny reentered the room and huffed, having wanted to return to Elsa's side the moment he could. "Aurora will be alright," he announced, "The physicians are tending to her now."

Elsa nodded in thanks and there was more silence before someone else spoke. "That story you told us," Sam began, "They didn't make it in time, did they?"

Elsa paused before scanning the room, finding curious, panicked, and waiting faces. She shook her head silently as she drew a shaky breath. "I had a sister too," she said, "She was only five. The soldiers found her before they could find me. That's when my father showed up."

The room fell eerily silent and tension filled the air before the sounds of returning horsemen filled the castle.

"History is written by the survivors," Elsa spoke in a stronger tone now, "And I am surely that."

Morning arrived and everyone was given leave to retire after giving a report to the king, who had returned from his journey at the news of the invasion. Danny was kept longer to discuss new systems for guarding the castle, and when he returned to his bedchamber, he found Elsa sitting by the fire in her night dress.

She turned to him and stood when he entered the room. "I-I couldn't sleep," she admitted.

"I can't blame you," he agreed, "I don't know if I can."

She studied him for a moment before moving around the table. "Why?" she stared into his eyes before shoving at his chest, causing him to stumble, "Why would you sacrifice yourself like that?"

"Elsa-"

She shoved him again, "Why would you put yourself in danger? Don't you know what Hans would've done to you if the plan hadn't worked?"

He tried to stop her, "Listen-"

"You would leave me alone at the hands of our enemy without you. Why would you make such a stupid and impulsive sacrifice?!"

"Because I love you!"

His hands as seized hers and he met her furious gaze. Her eyes softened and she blinked at him, "What?"

"I love you," he repeated, "I took a vow to protect you above anything else, including my own life. So, yes, I will gladly make a stupid sacrifice if it means you'd be safe."

She just stared at him as her heart swelled in her chest at the idea of the kindest, sweetest man she'd ever met, loving her with all his heart. She leaned up and kissed him softly. She held onto his chest like he was her lifeline.

He carefully took her into his arms as he met each of her wonderful sweet kisses. He found himself getting riled up and he pulled her harder against him, earning a soft whine muffled in their kiss. He lifted her into his arms and laid her down on the bed. Elsa was the one who tilted her chin so their lips reconnected. Danny wasted no time sweeping her up in his arms and holding her close.

She smelled like home, he thought to himself as he smelled rosewater, losing himself in her soft lips.

Elsa felt a warmth spread through her body and she loved it. The warmth of his mouth sent a current running through her body and her heart was racing in her chest.

Danny then broke away but held her close, "Tell me when you want me to stop."

She stared into his eyes, finding nothing but love, adoration, and sincerity. "Never," she breathed out in a sigh.

"Dahna," he practically groaned, "I can't take advantage. Are you sure?"

"More than I was when I didn't want to marry you," she replied, a mischievous glint in her eye. He couldn't help but laugh before pressing a tender kiss to her cheek. She sighed, "And people will expect a child soon."

"I don't want to make love to you because I want a child," he shook his head, "I want a child because I love you."

It felt wonderful to hear him say that and she smiled brightly at him before touching their lips once more, and she thanked the stars she'd once cursed for giving her this man. In the chaos of the siege of the castle, Elsa had realized that being deeply loved by someone, even unknowingly, gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.