Chapter 11
"... your majesty? Elsa?"
Realizing that she'd completely drifted off into boredom, Elsa stirred to see that Zach was giving her a concerned look. Try as she might, though, she couldn't even begin to remember what they were talking about, casually smoothing out the front of her dress while raking her brain. When that failed she sat up and said, "I'm sorry, what?"
Ultimately she was just saying it to be polite so it only annoyed her further when he wholeheartedly latched onto her attention, oblivious to how tedious she found him. Not that that was entirely his fault as he said, "I was just commenting on how much fun everyone is having at your sister's wedding." She was hardly listening as he quietly added, "And that it's such a shame that we're not joining them."
As a result Elsa found herself saying, "Oh. Yes. Such a shame," as she cast a dull glance out over the dance floor. From the raised platform the head table was sitting on she could clearly see out over the crowd of party goers but felt no urge to join them. Rather, not with him. She was more than content to sit there with Anna for a few minutes longer and just enjoy each other's company. Or she would if her sister wasn't distracted by yet more well wishes and she wasn't being badgered by an obstinate Zach, who was only too eager to take advantage of her words.
"Then perhaps we should," he replied, swiftly rising to his feet and offering her a hand.
"What?" It took a moment for her to register what she'd just said before feeling a stab of regret as Elsa desperately looked for an out. "Actually, Prince Zachariah, I'm afraid I'm not feeling up to it." Then she had a dash of inspiration. "If anything I'm actually feeling rather parched."
Unfortunately Zach was far too anxious to please her, turning to leave before she could finish. "Say no more, your majesty. I shall fetch some water and be back before you can even miss me."
"No!" she exclaimed before instantly scolding herself for her outburst as he gave her a confused look, still poised to leave. "Uh, I mean, not water. Actually would you be so kind as to bring me some punch?"
She poured as much tenderness as she could manage into that last sentence and of course Zach lapped it up, his face brightening. "Punch. Of course. I'll be back in a flash."
With that he departed as quickly as he could, slipping through the crowd in the direction of the kitchen. As he went Elsa felt an overwhelming sense of relief. At the very least that would buy her a few minutes of relative peace.
"I didn't think we had any punch at this wedding."
Looking over her shoulder, Elsa saw that Anna was watching Zach go. She had been talking with some attendees but now had a suspicious look on Anna's face as they sat at the table alone, adding, "In fact didn't Kristoff say he didn't want any because it gives him headaches?"
Allowing herself a satisfied smirk, Elsa sat back in her chair and looked out over the ballroom. "He did."
"Elsa, you didn't," Anna replied, her tone admonishing yet with a hint of appreciation. "I'm going to have to remember that one. Though I do feel kind of bad for Zach."
"I don't. I've been talking to people nonstop today so what I could really use is just a moment to myself to breathe. But some people just can't seem to take a hint."
"I know how you feel. But can you really blame him? I mean look at you, Elsa. You look gorgeous in that dress."
If anything Elsa was beginning to think that her own attire was a bit much as she quickly deflected. "Not as gorgeous as you of course."
"Of course. But still. As the most eligible bachelorette in Arendelle, how can you dress like that and not expect every man to come swarming like flies?"
"Nice analogy."
"I thought so."
For what felt like the first time all day she finally got to share a quiet laugh with her sister only to have that interrupted as well.
"Excuse me, your highness?" They both looked up to see a gentleman standing before the table. He looked absolutely terrified to be interrupting but that didn't stop him from gesturing to the two young girls alongside him. They couldn't have been much older than ten and miffed as she might have been Elsa couldn't deny that they looked adorable as they each shyly offered a bouquet of daisies to Anna. "My daughters were just hoping to congratulate you on your wedding."
"Ah, that is just too precious," Anna muttered to Elsa with a touched smile before gently leaning forward to address them. "And what are your names?"
And just like that Elsa found herself sitting there forgotten as she vacantly listened to her sister praise the pair. Anna had always had a knack for children, undoubtedly due to how their enthusiasm usually reflected her own. Elsa, on the other hand, always found them baffling, even when she was one. They were always so noisy and energetic to the point that it could be almost off putting. But even she had to admit that they could be cute from time to time. Just not at that exact moment.
To say that the day hadn't gone quite as she had hoped would be an understatement. She'd known that Anna would be busy but she'd still hoped to spend at least some time with her sister on her wedding day. From the moment the ceremony had ended, though, Anna had been caught up in a whirlwind of commotion, going nonstop from one thing to another. Any doubts she'd had that morning were long gone and frankly it was a surprise that Kristoff was able to keep up with her through it all.
Not that Elsa had any right to complain. Today was not about her, after all. She'd just been hoping for a little more was all. And that was without mentioning Aaron.
Aaron.
She wasn't entirely sure whether or not she'd meant what she'd asked him. Maybe she had. But a small part of her was certain that he'd say yes. Only he didn't.
Repressing a sigh, Elsa stopped pretending to care about what Anna was saying as she let her attention drift back to the room around them. Unlike her everyone else seemed to be enjoying themselves and she had to agree that the reception was a complete success. The music was light, the dancing fast and the food divine. All in all it seemed like everything Anna had ever wanted so at the very least Elsa could at least try to have a good time.
That is, until she saw them.
They were floating along to the music alongside the other dancers. She would say something and he would laugh before replying, causing her to playfully slap him across the chest. They were completely oblivious to her attention as they danced and were clearly having a much better time than she was.
She would have loved to say that she was a bigger person than that, that she allowed her trust to rise above it, but the moment Elsa noticed Aaron dancing with another woman she felt the prickly bite of jealousy sink into her as she watched them go. Why did it have to be Kresta of all people? Why couldn't it be anyone else, preferably someone Elsa found less… tantalizing?
It was more than that, though. As she sat there Elsa found herself envying how… easy it all looked. No one else was watching them, no one else even cared. They were free from any expectations to just enjoy themselves, to express themselves freely. That was a freedom that Elsa had never known as she felt that force within her begin to twist and writhe at her mounting frustration. Fortunately all it took was a steadying breath to calm it back to its passive self but that did nothing to stop the doubt clawing into the back of her mind.
Aaron so desperately wanted a simple, casual relationship where they could be themselves and that just wasn't possible with her. That didn't mean that it had to be impossible for him, though. All she had to do was…
Stop. Not allowing herself to indulge in that thought, Elsa shoved it aside as she forced her attention anywhere else. Aaron was free to dance with whomever he liked and if he wanted to dance with Kresta then that was his decision. She wasn't going to stop him. No matter how much it stung.
Fortunately at that moment Anna appeared to be done with her little aside, waving goodbye to the girls as their father led them back to their table. "It was such a pleasure meeting both of you. I hope your pony feels better and thank you again for the flowers. They're gorgeous." Turning back to Elsa, she asked, "Wasn't that adorable?"
Not wanting to dampen Anna's spirits at her own wedding, Elsa did her best to repress her feelings long enough to respond without arousing suspicion. Even so, the best she could manage was a distant, "Like you said, precious," as she avoided meeting Anna's gaze.
She didn't have to look to know that Anna instantly knew something was up as she surveyed the room. It took her even less time to zero in on what was bothering Elsa. "Looks like Kresta and Aaron are hitting it off well."
"Hm? Oh, I hadn't noticed," Elsa replied, straining to sound disinterested as she forced herself to give the pair a passing glance.
"Uhoh. Is someone jealous?" Anna sounded fairly amused at the whole situation but there was also genuine concern in her voice as she watched Elsa closely.
Adamantly refusing to let herself get sucked into it, she gave Anna a dubious look. "Please, Anna. It's just a dance, why would I be jealous? Besides, I trust Aaron."
Given the way she was smiling Anna clearly wasn't buying it but she didn't pry, instead nodding as she looked back at them. "Well good. At least they look like they're having a fun time."
It was good that she looked away, otherwise she might have seen Elsa visibly wince at that comment as she also looked at them. What she would give to also be allowed to just have a good time. Perhaps it wasn't only Aaron's reluctance that was the problem. What if it was-
"Pardon me, ladies. I hope I'm not intruding."
They both looked up at this new incursion and Elsa felt her annoyance return. Standing there was none other than the monarch of Ildonen, King Cyrus. He'd been oddly aloof the night before, only sharing a few words with her before wandering off to mingle with other attendees, but she'd known it was only a matter of time before he came skulking around. Perhaps she should have been grateful that she had yet to deal with him and Zach at the same time considering how exhausting just the latter was.
Once again, though, his attention was focused firmly on Anna, who was nothing short of gracious, giving a polite smile. "Oh, King Cyrus. Not at all."
"That's a relief, your highness," Cyrus replied before glancing at Elsa for the briefest of moments and adding, "Queen Elsa." That acknowledgement was all the warning she needed to know what was coming as he returned to Anna and raised the glass in his hand. "I just wanted to personally extend my esteemed congratulations to you and your new husband. Your wedding was amongst the most exquisite that I've ever seen and I sincerely hope that the two of you share a long and joyous life together."
With that he took a small sip as Anna gave a nod, although judging from the savvy look in her eye she also knew that wasn't why he was here. "Thank you, King Cyrus."
That look quickly vanished, though, when Cyrus cast a glance over his shoulder towards the crowds and said, "Actually, speaking of your husband, I believe I just saw him being accosted by a group of elderly women. One of them was wearing a diadem of sorts?"
"Uh oh. That'll be Duchess Elenore," Anna quietly muttered as she rose to her feet, scanning the room for her husband before giving Elsa an apologetic look. "I'm sorry, I hate to be rude but I really should go and save him."
Really? You're just going to leave me to fend for myself?
That's what Elsa wanted to say but in reality all she could do was sit there quietly, fighting the urge to grimace as Anna quickly rounded the table and rushed away while Cyrus watched her go.
"Of course, my lady. If his new wife won't save him then who will?" he called out after Anna, watching her go before inevitably switching his focus to Elsa. Just like that she was exactly where she didn't want to be, alone with one of her potential suitors. Why couldn't men learn when to just leave a woman be? Even worse, it was only a matter of time before Zach inevitably returned, giving her a limited window to ward off one before she had to cope with both.
As far as the pair were concerned, though, she did have to admit that Cyrus had been the more tolerable thus far. At the very least he had some understanding of the game they were playing. Zach was just so eager to please her yet terrified to rankle her that he just bumbled along unwittingly. Were it happening to anyone else Elsa might have even considered his ungainliness to be amusing. Cyrus, meanwhile, might have been able to pass for handsome if it weren't for that obnoxious grin plastered across his face.
That being said, something about his demeanor suggested Cyrus knew that was exactly how she felt about him as he asked, "Enjoying the party?"
Swallowing her annoyance, she forced a response. "Immensely. And you?"
She didn't particularly care if he was or not and she cared even less when he replied, "As a matter of fact I am. Contrary to what many might think, I don't have time to attend many parties so this is a nice reprieve."
Ignoring the comment, Elsa glanced around for a diversion. "Well I'm glad you're having a good time. Have you tried the horderves yet?"
She knew that would never have been enough but perhaps if she dropped enough hints he would just leave as Cyrus nodded. "As a matter of fact I have. An admirable selection, although I must admit some of it leaves something to be desired."
"You don't care for our fare?"
"Meaning no offense, of course. It's just that I sampled so many dishes in my youth that only the most exquisite plates can hold my attention anymore." He said it very nonchalantly but even so she could still smell the stench of innuendo seeping through his words. Before she could comment, though, Cyrus turned his focus elsewhere. "That being said, this party is still marvelous and I just have to ask. What glassmith is responsible for these sculptures? They're exquisite."
Just like that he managed to bait out her pride enough for her to follow his gaze. There had to be dozens of tables placed around the room and at the center of each one sat a crystalline statue. Each one utterly unique, they portrayed a variety of creatures, from falcons upon the peaks to a whale of the deep. Flanking the head table were even, of course, a pair of reindeer. Each had taken Elsa hours to form and carve just to her liking so she had to fight back a twinge of satisfaction as Cyrus admired them. He clearly knew what they really were and was just trying to goad her.
Even so, she found that she had to give a small correction. "Actually those are ice and I'll have you know that I sculpted them. Call it a wedding present of sorts for the happy couple."
He may have been convincing to some but she was fairly certain she could detect feigned surprise when Cyrus turned back to her with a look of shock. "Ice? Surely not. How could you possibly have attained such intricate detail?"
"It requires a… unique touch."
"Then if I may, your majesty. Not only clever and gorgeous but talented as well," he replied, plying with that honeyed tongue of his as he raised his glass in another toast. "Here's to the remarkable queen of Arendelle."
Try as he might, though, Elsa wasn't about to let herself fall for this sort of act as she continued to dismiss his compliments. No matter how gratifying they might have been to hear. "You flatter me but it's nothing special. Just a small gesture."
"You're too modest. If I could do something like that I would flaunt it for the whole world to see," Cyrus replied with that smirk of his, only for it to fade into a rapt scrutiny. "And I'm sure you must get this question from everyone but how do you do it?"
You too? Elsa thought as she tried to remain aloof. What was with the sudden interest, or, more accurately, the sudden courage for people to ask her? Still, she would take curiosity over quiet terror as she replied, "I don't know. I just imagine it and my powers make it a reality." Silently, she added to herself, Sometimes I don't even have to imagine it.
Rather than contenting himself with her answer, though, Cyrus only appeared to grow more intrigued as he drifted a step closer. "You must have quite the vivid imagination. Although I admit that raises more questions than it answers." Even Kresta hadn't shown such blatant interest as he continued to study her. However, before continuing his gaze slid to the vacant chair Zach had left beside Elsa and gestured towards it. "May I?"
That got a pause out of Elsa, not because he asked but because she was considering it. Despite her efforts Cyrus had managed to intrigue her. Not by showering her with praise or flaunting his accolades but by showing what seemed to be a genuine interest in part of her. A part that few others dared to mention.
Besides, if he proved to be anything short of genuine she could always dismiss him with a word, so what was the harm?
"I don't see why not."
"Thank you, your majesty," Cyrus said with a short bow before making his way to her. Whereas Zach had been all too eager to rush to her side, Cyrus took a measured stride as he rounded the table. Even so, he had an anxious air about him as he approached. Perhaps it was the small steadying breath he took or the way he surveyed the crowd rather than look at her as he sat. Almost as though he was nervous to be seated with her. But then he'd proven himself to be a capable actor up to that point.
"So that's what the view looks like from up here. I get why you don't want to leave. But getting to the matter at hand."
With that he began asking her all sorts of questions about her powers. At first she was reluctant to answer them but the moment the conversation had focused on her gifts Cyrus had dropped any lingering pretense of courting and instead hung on to her every word with a seemingly unending fixation. He'd even finally let go of that obnoxious smirk in favor of an acute focus and Elsa felt herself relaxing while they talked. Apart from Aaron, these conversations were so few and far between so to be able to talk about it… well, it was just nice to at the very least not have to pretend like that part of her didn't exist.
For the most part Cyrus let her do most of the talking, only interjecting if he needed clarification or if she led him to a new question. At first she thought this was some other game of his but the way he listened, it was as though he was trying to memorize every last detail that she was willing to share. How they came, what they could do, what it was like to live with them. If she didn't know better Elsa would have guessed he was planning to write a book on her. Even so, after a few minutes his fixation began to lose some of its charm as her suspicions began to trickle back in. Then, just like that, something occurred to him as he suddenly rose to his feet.
"What are we doing? We're at a wedding!" Cyrus exclaimed, offering her his hand. "We should be dancing, not sitting here talking."
Almost startled by the abrupt offer, Elsa shook off her surprise with a polite refusal. "Apologies, King Cyrus, but I don't dance."
That only drew out that smirk of his as he replied, "I'm pretty sure we all saw some rather compelling evidence that suggests otherwise."
Guessing what he was referring to, she waved the notion away nonchalantly. "That was for tradition. It's customary that the maid of honor and best man share a dance."
"Sure, sure. It certainly doesn't hurt that Lord Aaron has such a dreamy look about him."
"I suppose."
"In fact there he is now."
Realizing that she'd inadvertently gone back to ignoring him, she followed Cyrus's gaze once more to find that he was watching the one pair she was trying so hard to disregard. Still dancing with her... Good. Good for them, she thought as she swallowed more bitter envy.
However, when Elsa forced her attention back to Cyrus she was surprised to find she didn't appear to be the only one who disapproved. Whilst there was still an easy grin adorning his lips his eyes had sharpened to a knife's edge as he watched them. Like before, though, he flicked right back into his carefree demeanor as he turned back to her.
"Well we can't let them have all the fun," he said, extending his hand in another offer.
Unfortunately for him, being reminded of the pair had only strengthened Elsa's resolve to stay put as she gave him a stern look. "I told you I'm not interested."
Of course that wasn't enough to dissuade him but it did persuade him to drop his act. Letting go of his confidence and his charm, he poured every ounce of sincerity into his gaze as he could muster as his voice dropped and he muttered, "Come one, Elsa. You can lie to the rest but of all people I understand. I know exactly what kind of pressure you're under everyday. So, just this once, don't you wish you could set aside all those expectations and just enjoy yourself for a moment?"
For what felt like the longest moment all Elsa could do was stare at him, stunned. While her mask held firm, beneath that was all it took to crack her resistance. One well placed tap to expose a long eroding rift that struck harder and deeper than his charm ever could, to the point that she nearly found herself saying yes. Even so, she hesitated. As tempting as his notion may have been, it didn't change why he was here or the fact that for all she knew Cyrus would say anything to get his way.
Still, try as she might Elsa couldn't resist stealing another glance out at the party. At all the smiling faces and mary laughter as they celebrated into the night. At the froliking dancers that she'd never dared to join before out of fear of hurting someone. At him…
So, doing her best to ignore the warning blaring deep within her, Elsa braced herself as she met Cyrus's gaze once more while offering her hand. "Fine." When he reached forward, though, she withdrew it to lift a solitary finger alongside a cautionary glare. "One."
He didn't say anything in return, instead simply grinning with a nod before gingerly taking her hand in his and standing back for her to rise. After pausing for her to collect the train of her dress they made their way to the edge of the dais and descended into the raucous below. The crowd melted away before them and Elsa could hear a rustle of whispers as they stepped onto the dance floor but she ignored them, keeping her eyes fixed firmly ahead.
Reaching the center, they turned to face one another as Cyrus broke away to offer a flourishing bow, clearly in his element. Already beginning to regret her decision, Elsa gave a polite if somewhat terse curtsey in response whilst doing her best to ward the blush from her cheeks. Of course everyone had to stare as he closed the distance between them, although he was wise enough to barely graze her waist as they slowly began to twirl.
"See?" Cyrus asked as they glided around the room. Every other couple made sure to give them a wide berth to the point that it was like they were dancing alone. "Is this so bad?"
Determined not to look at him, Elsa set her gaze somewhere past his shoulder. "No, but I wouldn't say it's wonderful either."
"That's because you're still so tense. Just let yourself relax a little and who knows. You might actually enjoy yourself."
"I'll keep that in mind, King Cyrus," she replied brusquely, nearly bristling at the comment before flashing him a warning look. "And don't you dare dip me."
Despite her abrasive remarks, though, Cyrus looked just as relaxed as ever as he flashed an easy smirk. "Wouldn't dream of it, your majesty. But if you're willing I wouldn't mind returning to our prior conversation."
"Oh?" That brought her suspicions back as she eyed him closely. "And why are you so interested?"
"Should I not be?" he asked incredulously. "Do let me know the next time I'm going to meet someone like you."
That was a fair point, although she wasn't so sure it could simply be chalked up to idle curiosity. Of course, curiosity could be hazardous as she asked, "You're not scared of or intimidated by them?"
He only scoffed at that, however, replying, "I'm a king, your majesty. It takes a lot to intimidate me."
"Even so," she warned, "I may be more dangerous than you realize."
Despite her warning all Cyrus did was shrug. "Perhaps." That is, until something else entered his gaze. Something lurking deep within as his eyes hardened into a challenge, something... sinister. "But then so am I."
All the while the party continued around them as they danced, oblivious to the confrontation happening in their midst. Neither looked away, daring the other to break as Elsa allowed herself to seriously consider him for the first time. Like her he was well practiced in maintaining a guise, but beneath that lay someone who could be considerably more cunning and mindful than she'd originally given him credit for. After all, he did have a point. She and Aaron weren't the only dangerous people present, their power was just more... personal. While he couldn't control the elements with a thought, Cyrus was a king with every resource in his kingdom at his disposal. And Ildonen had much more to give than Arendelle.
Still, as mighty as he perceived himself, she had no doubts about the massive gulf between them so Elsa conceded by dropping her eyes back to the distance. She had nothing to prove in that regard and, as futile as it may have been, his stubborn resolve could almost be taken as cute. Like a pup trying to compare itself to a wolf. Let him have his pride, Elsa thought smugly as she asked, "So what else did you want to know?"
"Anything you're willing to share," Cyrus said, accepting his victory silently as his eyes softened back to their normal luster, although just as inquisitive as ever. "I think you'll find that my curiosity is insatiable."
"And if I'm not willing to share?"
"Then this is going to be a very awkward dance, isn't it?"
When it became clear he was waiting for her to continue, Elsa declined. She wasn't about to reveal more without knowing what he was looking for. "Apologies, your grace. I'm just not very used to talking about myself."
"Now how can that be?" Cyrus chided warmly, hiding the disappointment she knew was there. "Surely everyone you meet is dying to know more about you."
"Maybe they are. But since no one ever asks I wouldn't know."
She expected him to continue plowing forward much like Kresta did during their conversation earlier but of course Cyrus had to opt for the unexpected. Allowing his grin to drop, he let out a sigh as looked out over the crowd. His voice was soft as he said, "I can only imagine how difficult that must be. For everyone to be afraid of you the moment they hear your name."
Once again he had her on the back foot but Elsa refused to let herself get drawn in, eyeing him closely. As sincere as he appeared, she was beginning to suspect there was always a motive behind his every action. "It is what it is."
"True. However, I will say that you handle it well. As someone more than a little familiar with stress I can appreciate what it's like to carry it. And I'd say you're under more stress than anyone I've known."
Is this some sort of… flattery? "I'm alright. Some days are just more difficult than others."
That got a sympathetic nod before Cyrus's gaze caught hers again, his eyes narrowing ever so slightly. "Don't you wish they didn't have to be, though?"
"Of course, but that's just not realistic, is it?"
"No, I suppose not." After a pause he added, "But it could be."
Ah. So that's his angle. Just like that Elsa felt disappointment rise within her as she realized this was all just an elaborate ruse to woo her, which in itself was unexpected. Why would she care if he was trying and admittedly failing to seduce her? Either way she was sure he could feel her growing more distant as she idly replied, "How so?"
Even if he did, though, that didn't prevent Cyrus from soldering on. "Perhaps all you need is someone to support you. To help you through those longer days."
"I already have someone. My sister is all I need."
"And it's wonderful that you share a bond like that, it really is." As they danced she could feel him start to drift closer as he tried to weasel through her defenses. "But doesn't Princess Anna have her own life to live? Can you really ask her to care for your needs as well as her own, especially now that she's married?"
All the while she kept him at a firm distance. After so many others this game had become airdly tiresome, especially considering his bravado promised something more interesting. Besides, perhaps it would be fun to watch him squirm under a more direct approach. "So then who would replace her? You?"
To her annoyance but not her surprise Cyrus didn't even flinch under the newfound scrutiny. If anything he stood even taller as he replied, "I'm just saying that we all need somebody. Life's too brief and bitter to go through alone."
"Even if it is, I'm just not looking for that sort of thing right now."
"No one's ever looking for destiny and yet it comes calling all the same."
Nearly rolling her eyes at how saccharine that sounded, Elsa fought the urge to sneer. "Now suddenly you're my destiny?"
"Would that be such a bad thing?"
"That remains to be seen. Either way, for now I think I'm content to let destiny pass me by."
"In that case I feel that I have to ask. What is it that you're so afraid of?"
"And now I'm afraid." Nearly laughing out loud at that one, Elsa looked at him incredulously. What happened to all that smooth suave he was immiting earlier? "Tell me, does this sort of talk normally work on the ladies?"
She may not have laughed but he did, allowing himself a chuckle. "You'd be surprised," Cyrus said before giving another nudge. "But avoiding the question just proves I'm right, you know."
"Oh really? Or are you just projecting because you're really the one who's afraid?" she asked, finally deciding to push back only to have him cave instantly.
"Obviously. What man wouldn't be petrified to dance with a woman half as beautiful as you?" The way he said it made it seem like it was the most apparent fact in the world before his eyes drifted back towards that azure smolder. "Especially when he knows there's so much more to her beneath the surface."
Something about that look was starting to make her feel oddly uncomfortable except she was no longer retreating. "I thought a king wasn't supposed to be afraid of anything."
"He's not. But a smart king knows when to be scared."
Her blush was beginning to sink back into her cheeks as she found herself asking, "And are you scared?"
"Terrified." His reply came out so soft it nearly made her shudder as he flashed her the smallest of winks before brightening back up and exclaiming, "But now it's your turn."
Rousing from her stupor, Elsa blinked in confusion. Wait. What just happened? How long had they been dancing for? Surely the song must have ended by now. More importantly, when had he slid his hand to the small of her back?
Gently yet firmly pushing his hand back to where it belonged, she sought to right herself in the conversation. "My turn for what, exactly?"
Cyrus meanwhile behaved like nothing was amiss, nonchalantly saying, "I just let you in on an extremely intimate part of myself so it's only fair that you return the favor."
Had he? Either way his presumption managed to prick her indignation as she withdrew back into herself. "I never agreed to that. Share what you will but don't expect me to do the same."
"Come now, Elsa. Just one little query. I promise it will be harmless."
He was trying that look of his again only this time she was determined to keep him in his place. "How about you ask, King Cyrus, and then I'll decide if I want to answer."
Her formal rebuff only washed over him like water as he mulled over her response, unperturbed. "Fair enough. But then what to ask? Certainly I have to make it count." Then his eyes flashed with inspiration and his smirk returned. "How about this? Have you ever been in love?"
To anyone else it was a perfectly innocuous question but she instantly felt her hackles begin to rise, resisting the urge to look around them. The spell his charm had weaved was continuing to dissolve as Elsa answered, "That's rather personal, don't you think?"
"Is it?" Cyrus posed dubiously. "As if love were something to be ashamed of. Here, ask me."
"Have you?"
At first she expected more bravado only to get the first hint of vulnerability she'd seen in him all night as a wistful look crept into the corners of his face. The tiniest window for her to worm into and finally flip this discussion around as he replied, "Once or twice."
"With who?"
She'd said it in a noncommittal way in the hopes of getting closer only to have that window snap shut as Cyrus shook his head with a grin. "Ah, I never asked who, only if. Now it's your turn to answer."
Feeling the spotlight swing back onto her, Elsa stifled her internal grumblings. Although he might have been kidding when he said it earlier, that didn't change the fact that refusing to answer would say more than any response she could give. Besides, she wasn't about to let this man she hardly knew get the better of her as she gave him a solemn look with a slight shrug. "Unfortunately, no. I haven't."
She wasn't sure whether or not he'd bought her lie as Cyrus regarded her quietly for a moment before giving a consulatory smile. "I'm so sorry to hear that. Love is one of life's greatest gifts, after all, and to live without it sounds… well, fairly tedious, to be honest."
"I thought you didn't have any either."
Shrugging, Cyrus's eyes grew distant as he looked out the window into the night. "Romanticly, yes, but I've been blessed with other loves. The love of home and of my people. And I'm sure you would agree that feeling their love in return is far richer than anything any individual has to offer."
He might as well have been suddenly talking to himself, considering how little he was paying attention to her, which was probably for the best as what lingering enjoyment Elsa had quickly deflated. The only reason she'd agreed to this dance was to escape with a little fun, not be reminded of all the people who were afraid of her. Of all the people undoubtedly watching her right now. "Yes, of course. Being royalty has its perks but serving them is rewarding unto itself."
"Precisely, your majesty, I couldn't have said it better myself," Cyrus replied absentmindedly, continuing to prattle to himself. "The trust in their eyes when I walk among them, the hope I see as I lead them into a new tomorrow. I'll be the first to admit that I'm not a perfect king and that I've had my own share of failings but so long as they believe in me I'll continue to do whatever I must to ensure their future. Wouldn't you agree, Queen Elsa?"
With that reality made an unwelcome intrusion into her night as Elsa remembered the throngs of people waiting for them that morning beyond the castle's walls. How they'd flocked to Anna with cheers of adoration only to shrink from her when she stepped forward… "Of course."
Something in her tone must have drawn Cyrus's attention back to her as he looked down with a frown of concern. "Is something wrong, your majesty? You seem… distracted." Maybe he was worried, maybe it was another act. Either way her evening had been spoiled.
"No, everything's fine," Elsa replied, glancing in the direction of the head table. "I should probably just go sit down."
When she made to pull away, however, she found Cyrus was firmly holding her in place. But when she looked back at him his expression remained idly concerned as he asked, "Could I get you something? A soothing drink, perhaps?"
A sinking feeling was beginning to crawl into the depths of her gut as she tried to leave once more only to have him continue holding tight. "No, thank you. I'd really rather just-"
This time he cut her off, sliding ever so slightly closer to purr quietly into her ear. "Or perhaps you'd prefer to retire somewhere more private where we could continue our… conversation."
Her anxiety had slowly been morphing into indignation as she sought to disentable herself from his grip, her fingers beginning to sink into his shoulder. The sheer gall to suggest such a thing. To speak to her, a queen, like that… he was lucky there were so many other people around as she felt her brows lower into a grimace. "As I said, I'm fine. Now if you'll excuse me-"
"Come now, Elsa, it's just a dance," Cyrus murmured, his hand daring to slide towards her back once more. "Nothing to get excited over."
Excited?! That finally managed to stir her ire properly with just how repulsive it was, to the point that she was no longer looking to escape. Now she bore down on him, allowing months of exhausted frustration to seep into her voice as she growled, "I said no. And for once, when I say no, it would be so nice if one of you would just listen."
Quickly realizing his mistake, Cyrus's confidence fled in favor of quiet panic as he subtly tried to slip his hand from hers. "Um, Queen Elsa, would you mind-"
She wasn't about to let him go so easily, however, her fingers clamping onto his. Not after the parade of chauvinists she'd silently endured. "Yes, I mind. I'm so tired of men like you coming here and acting like I owe something to you. Of people like you staring at me as if I was some sort of-"
"Elsa!"
His cry managed to break through her fury, his pained eyes leading her down to their hands only for her anger to instantly extinguish into remorseful horror. Frost dug into his hand, chewing into his skin as it emanated from hers and up his sleeve. Where her other hand was clamped onto his shoulder shards of ice were crawling across him, stabbing closer and closer to his exposed neck. Even worse, though, was when she looked back up at him in shock to see not only pain but now the same fear she saw in everyone else's eyes.
"Oh! I'm so sorry!" Elsa exclaimed, staggering back to release him. Thinking quickly, she waved a hand at him, causing the ice clinging to him to waft away into nothing. Instantly he gave a relieved sigh as the weight lifted from him and she rushed back in to support him, desperately beating back the dread rising within her. "Are you alright?"
Anyone else would have shied away from her but all he did was wave her off, instinctively drawing his clenched fist to his chest. "Of course. I'm fine. Just… a little chilly is all," Cyrus replied, trying to reclaim his bravado, although a slight shake and an anxious stance betrayed his lingering alarm. Even so, he gave a soft smirk as he looked down at his trembling hand. "Note to self, don't ruffle your feathers unless I want to get frostbite."
Only then did Elsa realize that the music had stopped. In fact the entire ballroom had gone completely silent as she looked up to find all eyes were now staring at her. No one said a word as she surveyed the countless startled faces, nor did a single one of them turn away as her gaze swept over them. All they did was watch her as memories of a similar incident began to bubble up in the back of her mind.
Only this time she wasn't overcome by panic as she stood at the center of it all. Only a loathsome regret as Cyrus finally noticed the fear percolating around them. Unlike her, however, he quickly took it all in before sending a harsh glare at the conductor standing dumbstruck at the far end of the room. Quickly rousing under a king's glower, he wisely turned back to the band and brought them back to play after a brief pause. The return of music to the air managed to thaw the room from its stupor but no one resumed dancing, instead retreating back to their conversations in hushed mutters while shooting furtive glances at her. None dared to hold those glances, though, as Cyrus continued to sweep the crowd with his scowl before returning his attention to Elsa.
"Are you alright?" he asked gently, attempting to break her from her own silence.
"Of course," she replied, shaking off her shame long enough to glance up at him. "You?"
"Certainly, your majesty." Offering her a comforting if somewhat waned smile, he held out his hand for her to see. "Look, no harm done."
Yet as confident as he was trying to be, that didn't stop her from wincing when she saw how grey and numb his hand had become. Whereas earlier it had been warm now it was dull and clammy, continuing to shake ever so slightly. Eager to offer at least some amends, she said, "If you like I could have my court physician look at that for you."
Cyrus only waved it off, tucking his hand to his back while squaring his shoulders with a smirk. "No need, I have my own people who are more than capable of tending to these things."
"I insist. I'd hate to leave you in any pain or-"
"Thank you, Queen Elsa, but I'm alright," he interjected, cutting her off. "Besides, I'm more than certain that I've worn out my welcome so I will take my leave. Go find that break you were wanting and do enjoy the rest of your sister's wedding, won't you? These sorts of nights don't come twice, you know."
His words ought to have stirred some of her anger back, especially considering he was the one who caused all of this by behaving like a scoundrel, but all Elsa felt was mortified. It certainly didn't help that he'd somehow managed to be the one rejecting her, rather than the other way around. "If you're certain, King Cyrus. I'm sure there will be other chances for us to talk after tonight."
"I look forward to it." With that he reached out and took hold of her hand in his. Before she could pull away, though, he bowed low over it as though to kiss it but stopped just short like before. After a pause his sharp blue eyes flicked back up to hers and for the briefest of moments it almost felt as though her heart gave the slightest tremble under that azure glance.
"Until then, Queen Elsa," he said, straightening upright and releasing her. All she could do was offer a slight nod, which he returned before turning on his heel and striding away through the crowd. Other party goers were quick to step aside at his passing, though several of them then glanced her way only to quickly look away when they realized she was watching.
Meanwhile she continued to stand there, rooted to the floor. After all her practice, after all she'd been through that was all it took to draw another outburst. It was nothing compared to the ones that came before but she'd still thought that she was so far beyond this sort of thing. When was she finally going to attain the kind of control she needed to have some semblance of peace?
A small sigh escaped her as her shoulders slumped, the last of her panic fading away only to be replaced by embarrassment and shame. How could I let him get to me like that? Elsa thought as she furtively glanced from side to side. Everywhere she looked someone was watching her but immediately dropped their gaze when she noticed.
All except two.
Even though Kresta was still beside him, she and Aaron were watching Elsa from the crowd. A grim yet enigmatic mask was etched into his face but when their eyes met his brows lifted in a silent question.
It was obvious he wanted nothing more than to rush to her side but she stayed him with a glance. Appearances had to be maintained, after all. It certainly didn't help that she felt another lurch of jealousy when she glanced at Kresta.
She was watching Elsa with a look of pity and offered a small smile of her own while murmuring something to Aaron. Any desire to speak to them slithered away as he muttered back so instead she gave the smallest of nods before turning back to the head table only to feel a sharp sting of annoyance upon seeing what was waiting for her.
Zach had reclaimed his seat and was patiently waiting for her, a glass of what she could only assume was punch sitting on the table in front of him. However, listening to his tale of how he'd miraculously acquired it was the last thing she felt like doing. So, she stopped trying.
No. You know what? I'm done, Elsa thought with a grumble as she made for the door. After all this what she could really use was some time to herself as the crowd hurried to make a wide berth for her.
She'd nearly made it to the exit, too, when she felt a hand catch on to hers. Anyone else would have received a harsh rebuke but when Elsa turned all she found was a concerned Anna, Kristoff tailing behind her.
"Are you alright, Elsa? I'm so sorry, Kristoff and I only stepped out for a minute-"
"I'm fine," Elsa replied tersely, cutting her off. Don't speak to me like I'm a child, was her initial response only for her to sigh quietly, doing her best to let go of her irritation. Anna had nothing to do with what happened. Only she and Cyrus could be blamed for that. "Really, I am. I'm just feeling tired and thought I'd turn in early."
"But it's my wedding."
There was genuine disappointment in her sister's eyes but Elsa didn't have the will to stay, turning to take Anna's hands in hers while offering the best smile she could give. "I know, and it's been wonderful. But we both know parties are more your scene. I just feel like it would be better for everyone if I stepped out early."
There was a time Anna might have refused, stubbornly pushing to get her way, but not tonight. Instead she offered a sad smile of her own while pulling Elsa into an embrace. "Alright. If you're sure that's what you want." Then a mischievous note slipped into her voice as she added, "Unless you want another dance with a certain someone."
Fortunately their hug prevented Anna from seeing the regret tugging at Elsa's lips before pulling away, holding her expression firmly in place. "That's okay. Dancing in front of a crowd really isn't for me."
"Okay, I understand," Anna replied with a nod before adding, "I'm going to miss you, though."
"Don't let me spoil all your fun," Elsa said, waving the notion away. "Take your new husband and dance until the night turns to day."
"Alright. As long as you promise you're really okay."
"I promise, now go." She then glanced at Kristoff, who was doing a considerably worse job hiding his concern than his wife was. "You'd better show my sister a good time tonight, Kristoff."
"Of course, Elsa. I hope you get a good night's rest," Kristoff answered solemnly.
With that he took Anna's hand in his and the two of them retreated back into the heart of the ballroom, her sister sending her one last look over her shoulder as they went.
Meanwhile Elsa made sure to hold firm, more than aware of the eyes watching her from every corner of the room. As she turned to leave, however, she happened to glance at the main entrance to see none other than Cyrus standing there. He was conversing with someone else but must have been watching because he looked up when her attention turned his way. Their eyes only met for a moment, though, before he gave her a slight nod and turned to leave, baring that grin of his.
Something about it left her unsettled as she took her own leave of the ballroom. She'd underestimated him but she wouldn't be making that mistake again. In the meantime the hallway beyond was blissfully silent. There wasn't a soul to be seen in the lamp lit corridor, allowing her to finally heave a heavy sigh as the door closed behind her. Pinching the bridge of her nose, she took several steadying breaths in an effort to calm her riled nerves, only for her fingers to crush into a fist as she ground her teeth.
Eventually she just gave up, letting her hand fall with a growl before stalking down the hall towards the distant stairs. Before long they would all be gone, anyway. And then things would be allowed to return to normal. Their surreptitious, depressing, nettlesome normal...
However, before she could make it to the stairs she heard the sound of footsteps hurrying after her from the direction of the entrance hall. Any suspicions of who it was were quickly dispelled, though, when Elsa heard an unfamiliar female voice.
"Excuse me, your majesty. I need to speak with you."
Irritation speared through her anxiety at the thought of a stranger trying to talk to her at a moment like this. But, determined as ever to keep her inner thoughts to herself, Elsa shoved her frustration aside long enough to offer a curt response, although she refused to turn to face whomever she was addressing.
"Actually I'm not feeling very well at the moment. If it's urgent please direct it to one of the guards. Otherwise I'm sure it can wait."
Unfortunately whomever it was didn't seem to catch on to her growing annoyance, instead daring to insist.
"Queen Elsa, please. I've come so far to see you. I promise it will only take a moment."
Suppressing an irritable sigh, Elsa did her best to slip into a diplomatic expression as she turned to address the woman. She was going to reject her in a dignified fashion but Elsa's words caught in her throat as soon as she laid eyes on the woman, her normally unwavering demeanor cracking in surprise.
For all intents and purposes she seemed to be an ordinary lady a little younger than Anna, dressed in simple black armor with brunette locks framing a fair face. But Elsa didn't see any of this. All she could see were her eyes.
Gleaming in the lamplight filling the hall, they were a striking, translucent shade of amber. Alien yet achingly familiar, she would have recognized them anywhere. Or at least she would have were they not looking back at her from the face of a stranger.
Apprehension tinged with curiosity rose within her as Elsa instinctively wrapped her arms around herself, her voice quiet. "Who are you?"
A smile spread across the woman's face as she offered a small bow. "Allow me to explain myself, your majesty." If Elsa didn't know better she'd have said there was a slight shimmer in those eyes as she said, "I've come to Arendelle to find someone. My brother. I believe you know him as Lord Aaron."