Rapunzel: Previously on Tangled, our parents have gone away, leaving me in charge. Things didn't do so well for my first day, and now a snow storm hit Corona, but has now gotten worse. It's said that the curse of Zhan Tiri has struck again to plague Corona into a wintery prison. Meanwhile, Varian has been looking for a solution for Harmony's black rocks, despite Quirin's warnings to stay away. And now, we've found out that our parents are stranded in the storm! Can we find them in time? Will Varian find a way to stop these black rocks? And will this storm entrap us forever? Find out soon!
The Sweet Shoppe sign is almost frozen over as it swings back and forth. Some windows open on their own as no one is outside now. They've all either gone to the castle or shut themselves inside of their homes, as it shows no sign of stopping anytime soon.
Cass tosses a log into the fireplace. Pascal is making tea with Daisy's help, and the chameleon gives one to Feldspar. Daisy takes the teapot, flying over to Monty and giving him a refill on his. Rapunzel wraps a blanket around a woman and the newspaper boy. Harmony gives another out to a peasant girl.
"Nigel...I need to go look for my parents," Rapunzel whispers to the advisor.
"But your highness...you're the queen! You can't just leave your kingdom in its darkest hour," He leads her away.
"Then let me," Harmony steps up to them, dusting herself off. "I'm not in charge."
"No! We can't allow the princess, much less a child, to go outside by herself on a dangerous journey!" He gestures towards outside. Her eyes turn sad at his words. "Oh, Harmony, Rapunzel, as much as it pains me to say this, their chances in elements such as these are...oh, well. Let's pray your parents found shelter before the worst of the storm hit."
"And what if they didn't?! Max had his ropes ripped right off, that means that they're stranded!" Harmony protests to him.
"She's right, we can't just let them freeze!" Rapunzel argues back furiously.
"They'll die of cold out there!"
"My dears, going out in that weather now is a virtual death sentence. You two cannot go!"
"You said so yourself: we can't leave the kingdom in its darkest hour. Well, Mom and Papa are part of the kingdom too. Are we just going to leave them to their peril?" Harmony points out and he pauses at her argument.
"He's right, girls," Eugene speaks up from the entrance, surrounded by the thugs, Lance, and Max. "But we can."
"But you just heard Nigel," Rapunzel steps up to him. "It's a death trap."
"Look at us, princesses," Lance says next, "If the rest of the world had its way, each and every one of us would either be on the run or locked up somewhere."
"But your parents had the heart to give us a second chance," Big Nose explains with a small smile. "A chance to prove ourselves, and go straight."
"The least we can do is give them a second chance of their own," Attila finishes, shaking his head.
"But..." Harmony frowns a little.
"Listen to them. Girls, there's no other option," He places his hands on the blonde's shoulders. "The mountains made for a great hideout back in the day. I know those roads better than anyone. Face it. We're the men for the job. Besides...even a make-believe king has gotta make himself useful."
Cass stares at him, unsure of the chances of survival. "Your highnesses, the guards should really be the ones to go," The Captain steps up to her, actually concerned for Eugene's safety for once. If something were to happen to him like the king and queen...Rapunzel wouldn't be able to handle it well.
"If this storm keeps up, things could get ugly, and this kingdom will need its guards," Eugene tells him.
"Your highness, it's your call," He looks towards Rapunzel.
"I still think-"
Cass places a hand on Harmony's back, shaking her head. The princess gives a disappointed look towards the ground. She wanted to make decisions like this too...but everyone just thinks she's too young.
Rapunzel looks towards Eugene, who smiles softly at her. She trusts him more than anything...and no matter how much she wanted to go out there, he was right. She sighs, squeezing her eyes shut.
"Go..."
He pulls her into a hug and she looks up at him. "We'll be back...I promise." He kisses her forehead and slowly lets go of her. She closes her eyes again, Harmony sadly hugging herself. Hopefully they would come back safe.
Max gives them one last look, walking up to the two. He nudges Rapunzel and she presses her forehead to his. "Bring them home, Max..."
"Please..." Harmony hugs his neck and he nods, following after the others. Pascal and Daisy appear on their shoulders, giving them some comfort.
"Don't worry, guys," Cass walks up to them. "If anyone can find your parents...they can."
"I hope so, Cass..." The princess murmurs slowly, placing Daisy onto Cass' shoulder. "I need some time alone."
She walks off, Rapunzel staring after her in worry. Daisy squeaks at her, just as worried as Rapunzel. "Harmi? Is everything alright? Is it about Mom and Dad?"
"Oh, no," Harmony smiles weakly over her shoulder. "I have faith in them. I just...have a lot of things to think about."
"Little sis...?" Rapunzel whispers as she watches her leave, feeling that something was off.
Back in Old Corona, Quirin struggles to move, although it's impossible at this point. Half of his body is now trapped in the amber. A desk slowly moves towards him, a piece of paper and a quill sliding into view. He stops them with his hand and quickly writes a note for Varian. He examines the words and holds it up, hoping that the amber will save it...
Varian trudges through the snow and black rocks that are slowly getting affected by the substance as well. Harmony walks through the hall, hugging herself. She couldn't believe what's happened to her parents...deep down, although she loves her sister...she wishes that they'd see the real her...like they do with Rapunzel. What has she done? Caused mayhem within the kingdom when her parents were gone during the heist...created those black rocks in Old Corona...and she can't even stop them on her own.
Maybe I make things a mess
He glances back towards the direction he came from, remembering all of his failed inventions that...nevertheless, affect his village.
And maybe you're right to have doubts in me
Maybe, but nevertheless
Varian slides down the edge from a slight cliff. He falls into the snow, picking himself back up.
If you for once could just trust me
Maybe I should be in bless
Harmony stops in front of the family portrait.
And maybe they're right to have faith in her
She lightly touches Rapunzel's face, sighing deeply.
Maybe, but nevertheless
She turns to her own self in the portrait, looking away.
If you for once could just rely on me
The princess walks down further the hall.
Just this once, let me come through for you
Varian looks towards ice slabs that had separated on its own earlier.
The way that you want me to
Harmony looks towards outside.
Let me make you proud
Varian starts jumping on them, eventually making his way to the other side.
Let me show you the best in me
He balances himself as he walks across the branch bridge that's now covered in ice.
Let me give a reason to believe that I can stand tall
He climbs up another cliff, placing the hoodie over himself.
And when you return
She steps up slowly to the window, looking on in concern for what could be happening...and then it turns into horror once she sees a black and slightly reddish rock forming from the snow.
Varian walks onto another bridge, and then more snow, also passing through a field.
And I'm more than you dreamt I'd be
Maybe then you will realize that you never actually knew me at all
Varian ends up in the forest, hugging himself as the snow blows at him.
Yes, I caused a chaos once
Harmony squeezes her eyes shut as she trudges past Rapunzel's room.
I know that I could never be her
Still, though, no matter what
She clenches her fists in determination.
I'm gonna be great, just wait and see
He walks into a cave, stopping for a moment so that he can use one of his vials to light the way. He takes off the hoodie as he walks through the icy path.
Sure I've made lots of mistakes
He looks up towards some rocks in the reflection that look just like his father...
I know that I've disappointed you
He looks away, determined to get him help...and for him to see that he can do great things, other than just causing trouble for them and Old Corona. Just like how Harmony wants others to see her for herself and not just some little kid, including her parents.
Still, though, whatever it takes
He comes across a pile of snow blocking the exit and pulls out a pink vial this time.
I'm gonna fix it, just watch me
He makes the snow disappear by coming the two vials together. The snow disappears in an instant.
Just you wait, I'll make it up to you
Harmony pushes open her door, determined to do whatever she can to do her part. Varian ties together his vials to a staff to light his way, taking his lantern.
If it's the last thing I ever do
He runs up to a plank, taking into his hands.
I will make you proud
Harmony bursts out onto her balcony, walking slowly onto it. Varian uses the plank as a sled.
I will make you have faith in me
She feels like a true princess: dedicated to save her people and her parents from this storm. Harmony grips the balcony bars. Varian puts on his goggles, a fierce look on his face.
I will prove that the way I used to be is all in the past
Harmony looks towards her kingdom as Varian reaches some rocks, jumping on them.
I will save the day!
Harmony quickly undoes her braid, ruffling up her hair a bit as it blows to the side. Varian jumps off the last rock, leaping over the small distance. He lands on the other side.
And come back here triumphantly
She smiles, seeing the black rocks turn fully black again.
Cause I long for that look of surprise when your sun/son rising at last
Varian trudges up the hill, finally reaching the top.
The pride in your eyes when you see your sun/son rising at laaaaaaaaaaast!
Varian takes off the goggles, seeing his destination up ahead. He smiles as Harmony holds out her arms like wings, both of them belting out the last note.
The storm outside blows hard, the snow covering every inch of Corona as Cass looks out the window Rapunzel paces around the room, trying to think about what to do next. The entire kingdom is being covered in the snow, getting deeper and deeper...
Harmony comes back just as Cass looks back to the crown princess. Suddenly, Owl arrives, causing her to gasp in alarm. She opens the window to let him in both her and Rapunzel slamming it shut. He gestures to his right.
"Cass, what is it?" Rapunzel asks in concern as Owl flies away.
"...The worst of the storm has yet to come."
Owl lands in front of the fire, warming himself up. Daisy flies up to Harmony, landing on her shoulder and nuzzling her cheek. The princess smiles, nuzzling back.
"Unless we do something, Rapunzel, the whole kingdom will be buried. Our only hope is to call a state of emergency, evacuate to the shelters on the mainland, and pray this storm blows over," Nigel declares, Harmony shaking her head.
"And if it doesn't?"
He doesn't give her an answer.
"We'll never be able to get everyone to safety in time," Her sister sighs, "That can't be the only way...what about Xavier?"
"Your Highness! With all due respect, lives are at stake here. We can't go chasing after fairy tales – not in our darkest hour."
"It's worth giving a try," Harmony speaks up.
"Princess Rapunzel! Mona!" Varian comes running into the room, followed closely by Pete and Stan.
"Sorry, princesses. He ran right past-"
"Wait! It's okay," Rapunzel cuts him off.
"He's our friend," Harmony gestures to herself and her sister. "W-Well, her friend..." She really didn't know what to call him, they were still figuring that out. The Captain lets him go, leaving the boy panting.
"Vari, take a deep breath," The girl guides him and he does so.
"Rapunzel, Mona! My dad's in danger. You—you're the only ones who can help. Please! You have to come to Old Corona with me! Now," Varian pleads with them as everyone waits for their answers with bated breath. Rapunzel leads Varian away.
Harmony is about to follow when Cass grabs her arm. She gives her friend a pleading look, but she simply shakes her head. "Let your sister handle this."
"Varian is someone I'm really close to, Cass. I have to help."
She grabs her arm back, running towards the doors. Nigel follows after her.
"Varian, what's wrong?" Rapunzel asks, wanting to hear this.
"Please, the rocks, they're-they're encasing my dad!"
"What?" Harmony gasps sharply.
"Encasing?" Rapunzel asks, just as surprised as she is. "Wh-what are you saying?"
"Come! Come! See for yourself," He gestures for them to follow. "You two can help! I-I know you can! You have a connection to these rocks!"
"Alright Vari, I'll-"
"Varian, it's a state of emergency here," She didn't want to, but she couldn't leave her kingdom like this, and neither could her sister, who looks up at her in shock that she made that decision. And didn't even think to ask what Harmony thinks of this. "I'm sorry. I-I-I can't help you! Not right now."
"No! No, no, no, no, no!" He runs back up to them. "My dad doesn't have much time. You two are the only ones who can help! Rapunzel, Mona, please!" He gives them a pleading look, clasping his hands and she gives a conflicted look.
"Your Majesty, please. Whatever the boy's problem is, it must be set aside. The storm's growing stronger by the second."
"No!" Varian protests to him.
While Harmony is concerned about the snow storm, her people are in danger after all, she's just as concerned for Varian. It has to be serious if he came all the way here in a violent snow storm that shows no way of stopping.
"Rapunzel," Harmony whispers to her. "Varian needs our help! We can't just turn him away. He made this long journey just to ask us."
"No, no, no, please!" Varian begs them, grabbing Rapunzel's arms and shaking her. "Please, princess, you...wha. You promised you'd help me! You promised!"
The guards begin to drag him away.
"No, please don't do this!" Harmony calls out after them.
"Rapunzel!" He's dragged down the corridor as he shouts at Rapunzel. "Princess! My dad needs help!"
Rapunzel steps forward. "No! Don't hurt him!"
Varian is dragged around the corner. "Rapunzel! You promised! You promised!"
Harmony watches him get taken away, balling up her fists as she's on the verge of tears. "Punzie, why did you do that?!"
"I didn't want to, Harmi, but this storm isn't going away," Rapunzel gestures towards outside and the young princess could feel her heart breaking.
"She's right," Cass comes into the hallway. "She did what was best for all of us. We have to keep the situation under control. Harmi, your feelings for him need to be put aside for the good of the kingdom. You're not old enough to make these kind of decisions on your own, and your sister's word as queen must be followed. You're just a kid."
Harmony's eyes widen slowly. Never did she think she'd have to choose between her kingdom and a boy that she has strong feelings for. And that was a choice she wouldn't even put Rapunzel through. She wanted to scream, to tell her off...but she couldn't find the right words. She tears up and runs down the hall, wanting to get out there as soon as possible.
"Harmony, Harmony wait!"
Arianna closes the caravan, having gotten some wood. "Thank you, darling," He holds it over the fire as they're both shivering.
"...How's your ankle, honey?" She asks after a few seconds.
"My ankle is the least of our worries. The kingdom..." He closes his eyes, wondering just what his daughters might be going through. "There's so much left to do."
"Fred..." She places a comforting hand on his shoulder. "She's going to make a great queen."
He stares at her and pulls her into a hug. "Happy anniversary, sweetheart."
"Happy anniversary, Arianna..."
Max is leading to the group to where he lost the two, all of them trudging along. It's difficult as the storm is getting stronger, but they had to pull through. Max reaches the spot and Eugene's heart clenches as he sees a blockage of snow up ahead.
"No...!" He runs up to it, fearing the worst. "NO!"
Lance places a hand on his shoulder, Max looking downwards...in the distance is the caravan. His eyes widen and he neighs to get their attention. He moves his head back in their direction and they see the busted carriage.
"There they are! Good job, Max."
He smiles at the praise.
"Great. So how do we get down there?" Lance couldn't help but wonder. Eugene squints his eyes.
"We'll have to reach them by taking that ridge," He gestures his head towards the ridge above the caravan, all the way across from them.
"That tiny little thing?! You'd sooner find a horse on that ledge before you get me on there!" Lance cringes and Max slides along the ridge, followed by the others. "That is one determined horse..."
They carefully slide along, Lance slightly losing his footing. "Uh...I knew I should've stopped at four donuts this morning! Curse you, crullers! And your alluring delectability!"
Eugene shushes him as that last sentence was too loud. "You wanna bring that down on us?" He points upwards towards a bunch of snow, that could cause an avalanche.
Harmony shivers slightly as the snow gets rougher. She didn't hate the cold, but she was almost never outside in it. Her father never liked her leaving the castle, after all...and it doesn't help that she's all alone out here. But she had to go to him.
She had to do something to help.
Suddenly, she trips down a cliff and her body moves more wildly. She spins around and around until she lands into the white cold substance. Lifting her head up, she takes a look around. She couldn't say anything. The snow was getting heavier by the second. She shields her eyes with her hand as she tries to see, but it was next to impossible. She gets up onto her feet and slowly trudges in the snow. She had no idea where she was, or if she would ever find Old Corona, but anything was better than abandoning him in need like her sister had done.
"Let's get the people to this point," The Captain is showing them where they have to go.
"Of course, sir."
Suddenly, the storm blows away the top of one of the tower of the castle, all of them hearing it. One of the guards bursts in.
"Your highness...I've just come back from the docks. Between the winds, snow, and surging tide, no ship is leaving Corona."
One of the windows opens, blowing in the snow. Rapunzel rushes over and closes it shut.
"Princess Harmony is gone!" Another guard comes in, all of them gasping. "Her window was left open; she's gone out into the storm!"
"What?" Rapunzel looks towards outside. "H-How do we know for sure? Did you check the balcony?"
"Because we found her," He holds up Daisy, who chirps sadly.
"Daisy!" The princess takes her into her hands. "Harmi didn't want you to follow her, did she?"
The duckling shakes her head sadly and Rapunzel hugs her. "Little sister, no..." She tries not to cry.
"Princess, I'm sorry. If we are going to act, it must be now!" Nigel insists to her.
"But my little sister is out there all alone!" She points towards outside. Everything that could go wrong has: the storm isn't stopping, Eugene is out there trying to rescue her stranded parents, she broke her promise to Varian, and now her little sister has gone out into the worst of the storm.
"She has made her choice. Now it's time for you to make yours."
She sighs slowly. She had to make sure everyone else inside was safe... "Evacuate the island..." She orders, though she didn't want to.
"You heard the princess!"
The guards rush to prepare and Rapunzel starts crying at the thought of her sister being scared and alone...
The guards have started escorting the citizens, packing up supplies, and making sure that everyone is bundled up. A mother hugs her son, being taken away by another guard. The supplies are loaded onto the horses as everyone prepares to leave...
After a while, Harmony stumbles again, this time landing in an ice cold river. She coughs as she's able to slowly crawl out onto the snow again, her skirt frozen solid now. Her whole body is shaking as she continues onward. A white puff of air escapes her slightly blue lips as she sees someone up ahead...!
"V-Varian..." She murmurs, but he was unable to hear because of the loud wind. "V-Vari..." She tries again, stepping closer. Her eyes start to close, but she uses up all of her strength to scream his name for what could be the last time.
"VARIAN!"
Varian was running through the blizzard as fast as his feet could take him. The storm wasn't letting up anytime soon, and he had to get back home to his father. He had no idea what his state was now. Suddenly he heard a familiar voice screaming his name and then a thud.
He turns around and squints, running over to see if the person was okay. He's shocked to see his own princess laying down in the snow, having passed out.
"Mona!" He says in concern. He gets down on his knees and lifts her upper half. Removing his glove, he places it on her cheek. She's colder than the snow itself.
"...You came back for me..." He murmurs, a warm feeling in his heart. Everyone else had turned him away, but...the princess of Corona came back for him. Harmony actually risked her life just to help him when no one else would...
Varian quickly puts his glove back on, remembering where they are. He picks her up in his arms. "Just hang in there, Mona," He quickly kisses her forehead and continues through the storm. Luckily, Harmony is surprisingly light.
After what felt like hours, Varian finally sees the silhouettes of his village. He tries to pick up the pace as he gets closer to his house. He manages to get the door open and shuts it behind him.
"Dad! Dad, I'm back! Dad, Dad, the princess refused to help, but-"
He freezes in place at the sight in front of him. His father...is now completely in the amber with a look of agony on his face.
He didn't know what to do or say. He was too late...
Varian subconsciously squeezes Harmony in his arms. He wants to go to Quirin, but...she wasn't going to suffer too on his watch.
He quickly starts a fire in the fireplace, gathering up every blanket and coat he could find in the house. He sits next to her, wrapping everything around her and himself. Varian holds her in his arms, bringing her face to his chest.
"You're going to be okay, Mona," He murmurs, rubbing her back furiously to warm her up. "I've already lost my dad. I won't lose you too." Leaning forward, he plants a warm kiss on her forehead, hugging her close as he silently cries for his father. First he's trapped in the amber...and now his princess might freeze to death. She snuggles into Varian as if hearing him so broken, silently giving him some comfort. They just sit there as the storm rages on, the boy hoping that he could keep her safe, warm, and away from outside...
Everyone starts to leave, Rapunzel frowning towards them in worry. "...I hope I'm making the right decision," She sighs sadly.
"You're not, Rapunzel," Cass places a hand on her shoulder. "You are making the only decision."
She starts to walk with her friend behind some people, hugging herself. All she can think about is her parents and Harmony stuck in the cold...A boy sneezes and she bends down to him with a smile, looking at the mother.
"This evacuation...ugh, it doesn't feel right, Cass."
"Rapunzel, this is exactly what your dad would do if he were here."
She sighs again. "If he were here...he would tell me...to follow my heart." She smiles towards Xavier's shop.
"...What?" Cass catches on. "The Demanitus device?" The crown princess simply nods. "So I am clear, we're talking about the mythical subterranean machine that can magically control weather?"
"Cassandra. In or out?" Rapunzel asks simply.
Cass looks towards the shop. "Looks like we've got a blacksmith to visit."
"Princess," Xavier moves away something from his shelf, looking at a scroll. "I never said the Demanitus device was real for sure," He takes the scroll.
"I know, Xavier, but every legend is born of truth, right? What if Zhan Tiri's curse is real, and the storm will not let up until Corona is destroyed? Even an evacuation won't help then! That machine might be our only hope!"
"Hm," He looks away, having a small feeling that it could be the curse. After all, there hasn't been snow like this since eons ago, just like in the story.
"Please," Rapunzel gives him a begging look. "My sister is out there, possibly dying because of this storm, and I have to find her. If the legend is true, where would the Demantius device be?"
He looks towards the fire, creating a torch.
"I have an idea."
"There they are!" Eugene calls out as the caravan is down below. "Vlad, give me the rope."
Two ropes fall towards the carriage, Eugene and Lance tied around them. Max pulls on one, helped by Big nose and Hook Foot. They lower the rope slowly for the two to get down. Eugene's foot slips and he falls, the trio pulling as hard as they can. He gets his grip back, sighing in relief and giving Lance a thumbs up.
Big Nose pants a little. "You know what happens when I get stressed?" He prepares to sneeze, but Hook foot covers it with his finger.
"What are you trying to do? Bring the whole mountain down on top of us?" And then he's the one that sneezes, causing the snow to fall.
"Oh, man, I hate snow," Eugene deadpans before it hits them.
Harmony groans slightly as she slowly opens her eyes. She recognizes immediately where she is, as she's been there too many times to count, but she didn't remember how she got into Varian's house...she could feel the many garments around her, along with the fire still burning behind her. Something's on her forehead and when she touches it, she feels a hot rag.
"Mona!"
She turns her head towards the doorway to see Varian standing there, holding a cup of hot chocolate. However, he immediately drops it in favor of running over to her, bending down to examine her features. He holds her cheek gently, smiling happily.
"Vari..." She murmurs, trying to get up, the blankets sliding off her.
"No, don't get up," He makes her lay down again, tucking her into the blankets. "You're not warm yet. You might get hypothermia!"
"What happened?" She asks softly as she still feels groggy.
"I found you out in the snow storm...you called for me..." He takes the rag off her head and dips it in warm water. "Why did you go out there by yourself? You got so cold you passed out. I don't know what would've happened if you didn't find me..."
"I came back...for you," She reaches out and takes his gloved hand. "I wanted to see what I could do to help you..."
His eyes soften as he holds her hand with both of his. "But Mona, you could've died."
"It doesn't matter," She mumbles, looking up at him. "I couldn't leave you to deal with this heavy problem on your own."
He smiles weakly, kissing the back of her hand. He looks at her brown orbs. "...Thanks..."
"Wait!" She sits up in alarm. "H-Has anyone from the kingdom come for me? My parents are still out there trapped in the snow and Rapunzel must be worried sick by now..."
"Hey..." He places his hands on her shoulders, laying her down again. "It's okay. You don't have to worry about that right now, but to answer the question...no. W-Wait, what happened with your parents?"
"Their carriage broke and they have no way to get out..." Harmony blinks back tears. "I-I'm scared, Vari...what if they...I've had my family back together for so long, and my friends, you...you've all made me so happy, I don't wanna lose that!"
"Shh...everything will be okay," He wipes away a stray tear. She suddenly sits up again, hugging him tightly. "Mona...?"
"Thank you...for everything," She whispers, hugging him tighter. He wraps his arms around her and returns the hug.
"I'd do anything and everything for you," He murmurs and they stay like that for a few minutes. "Mona?" He strokes his fingers into her hair and she hums at the feeling.
"Yes?" She responds, pressing her face between his neck and his shoulder.
"...Would you do anything for me?"
"Of course I would..." She raises a brow at him. "Are you okay? Why are you asking me that all of a sudden? And where's Quirin? Is he okay?"
"I'm okay...just let me hold you." She nods and lets him hug her tight, resting her cheek on his chest. He couldn't tell her just yet that because of her sister, her dad was now trapped in the amber...was he even aware of his plight? Was he even feeling anything...? Right now, all he needed was to hug her and never let go...
"Are you angry that I went after you?" She whispers loud enough for him to hear. He looks at her straight in the eyes. "Varia-mmph!" Harmony gets cut off when she feels Varian's lips on hers. Her eyes are wide before she closes them, sighing in content. He snakes his arms around her waist, gently pushing her onto the ground. Her hands cup his cheeks as her knees grow weak. Butterflies are swarming in her stomach as her head feels light.
After what felt like a minute, they had to pull away for air. "I could never stay angry at you," He rakes her bangs through his fingers. "You came here for me, after all...and you should really get some rest now."
"I will if you cuddle me."
He simply smiles and she scoots over, making room for him. Varian crawls in under all the layers, laying behind her back. He nuzzles into her neck, wrapping his warm arms around her. She goes to sleep in a matter of minutes.
Xavier is guiding Rapunzel and Cass through the tunnels. He takes a right as Rapunzel looks at her surroundings. They stop in front of another tunnel.
"According to the legends, there should be a passageway here..."
"Ugh, I knew this would be a waste of time," Cass grumbles at this. Xavier examines the wall, lighting his torch near a symbol. He presses on the brick. "Come on. If we hurry, we can still catch up with the evacuation."
The passageway opens up just like Xavier said it would. "This way."
Arianna's hands dig through the snow, moving it away to reveal Eugene's face. He spits them out and then sees her smile. "Oh! Hello, your majesty. We've come to rescue you."
"Eugene!" Lance's voice is muffled. "I'm stuck! I'm stuck!" His feet pop out of the snow. "I can't feel my face!"
Arianna helps Eugene onto his feet. "We need to hurry. The king's hurt."
Everyone is almost to the exit when the Captain turns around, gesturing the others forward. "Keep pushing, people. We can make it!"
They start to walk across the bridge, when one of the wagons breaks away from the horse. One of the barrels falls off, spilling liquid and then a lantern falls onto it, causing fire to go towards the cart!
"Everyone get down!" The Captain shouts to the others, the explosion knocking him onto the ground. Unfortunately, this also causes a hole in the bridge, with no way to get anything or anyone across it. One of the guards looks up in surprise. "We're trapped!"
The trio walks into the room, Rapunzel looking over the edge. "Rapunzel!" Cass rushes forward, catching her just in time. "Gotcha..."
Pascal gulps in fear, Daisy patting his back.
"I think this is it," Xavier tells them, lighting up the circle around them...to reveal the device in the center of the room.
"I don't..."
"Believe it," Rapunzel finishes for Cass.
"Your highness. The Demantius Device," Xavier gestures to it. They walk down the stairs and reach the device.
"So this is the device that's gonna blow the storm out of the sea?" Cass asks, a bit skeptical.
"Not if we just stand here looking at it," Rapunzel steps forward. "Let's try to get this machine up and running." She starts to push one of the beams sticking out from it, Cass going over to help her. With Xavier's help, it starts moving. Electricity starts to spark, Rapunzel looking up. "I think it's gonna work!"
It starts to shine, a beam going up towards the sky. Cass continues pushing as the walls start to crack, a rock falling into the machine...and getting stuck in one of the gears. Everything suddenly stops, as does what's happening outside.
"Oh, you have got to be kidding me!" Cass exclaims at this.
Arianna looks towards the caravan, climbing all the way to the top. Lance signals to Eugene that they're ready for Frederic. "You ready?"
"Okay your majesty, this should hold you," Eugene turns to Frederic in a make-shift platform, having used one of the wheels. Lance nods to the others, who start to pull. "Alright, up there, steady now!"
The wind makes it difficult as it says Frederic side to side. "No, no, no, no. Oh no," Eugene starts to panic a little.
The swinging causes the whole thing to fall apart, and for the king to fall off. "Frederic!" Arianna shouts, Eugene gasping. He slides all the way past the former thief.
"Your majesty!" He runs up to the man and catches his arm just in time before he could fall to certain death. "Hold on, your majesty!" Frederic's hand already starts to slip, and Eugene tries to get a good grip.
"Quick, help me get down there," Lance turns to the others.
Eugene struggles to hold on and Frederic sees this. "Eugene...please...take care of my daughters."
"We are gonna get you outta here. Besides, you should know by now, the girls don't need anyone to take care of them."
Rapunzel undoes her hair, tying Pascal to an end. Together, Cass and Xavier help Rapunzel lower the chameleon towards the rock, but he's too far away. "Come on, Pascal!" He reaches out his hand and snaps his fingers. He uses his tongue instead, but it's no use. The chameleon looks up and shakes his head at the four.
"Okay Pascal, let me pull you up, and we'll figure out some other way," Rapunzel smiles a little, though he didn't think that it was possible...unless...
He smiles up at Rapunzel, shedding some tears. She notices his eyes and starts to grow uneasy. "Pascal?" He undoes the tie around him. "Pascal! NO! PASCAL!"
He falls towards the rock and removes it. Daisy swoops down towards him. "Daisy, no!"
The device starts to work again, Rapunzel crying as Cass pulls her up. "Pascal? Daisy?" She asks slowly, the princess shedding tears. Cass pulls her into a hug as Rapunzel sobs into her shoulder, sadly looking towards the gears.
Eugene loses his grip, but Lance comes in and catches Frederic. Eugene smiles at his friend, gripping the king's hand as well. "Almost got it!"
Together, they help pull him up. The device starts up again, a cyclone appearing from the mountain. It spreads out, stopping the storm for good and then disappearing. The wind goes back to normal, regular snow falling. They all cheer at this as the snow then stops completely.
Frederic turns to Eugene. "Thank you, son." He turns to Lance and notices something. "Excuse me...is that my hat?"
Rapunzel sobs into her hair. "They're gone..."
"I'm so sorry, Rapunzel..."
"What am I gonna tell my little sister?" She continues crying. She couldn't even imagine the look on the girl's face...when she tells her that her friend is gone...
Cass hugs her and she sobs into his shoulder, Xavier closing his eyes in respect as he could only listen.
A daisy suddenly appears as the duckling flies into view, carrying Pascal with her feet. She chirps to get their attention and Xavier looks up.
"Wait..."
The two are a little banged up, but they're okay. "Look!"
Rapunzel listens for the chirping and turns to them in surprise. "Daisy! Pascal!"
Daisy drops Pascal into her hands and she smiles in relief, pressing her forehead to his. "Thank you, Daisy," She says gratefully, kissing her on the forehead. She was so relieved that they were alright, safe and sound...
The same bunny from before pops out of the snow as Monty knocks off the snow from the sign, sweeping it up. Feldspar waves to him not too far away and he returns the gesture.
Rapunzel looks on happily as her parents return with everyone else. She runs up to Eugene and hugs him. She then walks up to her mom, hugging her too, and then her father. She smiles towards Max, nuzzling him with her hand.
"Where's Harmony?" Arianna looks around for her.
"She...went missing during the storm," Rapunzel squeezes her eyes shut. "I'm so sorry, Mom and Dad, but the guards started searching as soon as it was over."
"What?" Frederic gasps a little.
"But why?" Arianna couldn't help but wonder.
"I...made a hard choice and she wasn't happy," Rapunzel hugs herself. "I wish I hadn't sent her away..."
"You didn't," Cass pats her back. "She's probably on her way back to you right now."
"They'll find her," The Captain places a hand on the king's shoulder.
Some time later, Varian wakes up and sees that she's turned around, face in his neck. He smiles as he moves a stray hair away from her forehead, kissing her temple. Varian slowly gets up, careful not to wake her, and goes into the kitchen. He starts making some soup when he hears footsteps. Looking up, Harmony is standing there.
"I'm sorry, did I wake you?" He asks softly and she approaches him.
"No…" She shakes her head. "I can't thank you enough for saving me, Vari." The girl smiles at him gratefully.
"I'd do it again," He murmurs, holding her hands. "Mona…these past few months I spent with you…were the best in my whole life. I…feel complete with you. And I don't wanna lose that."
"Vari…" Her eyes soften at his words. He links his fingers with hers and steps forward, staring into her eyes.
"Princess Harmony of Corona…be mine."
She opens her mouth in shock. Her and Varian…she thought about it for so long she thought he would never actually get the courage to ask her. Before she can answer, a loud knock is heard from the door.
"Open up in the name of the king!"
The door bursts open by the Captain of the Guard, other men rushing into the house. "The princess!"
She rushes inside the room at the loud noise, seeing all of them. "What is-"
"Mona!" Varian exclaims in worry, running after her.
"You," The captain glares at him. "How dare you kidnap the princess of Corona in the middle of this blizzard?"
"Kidnapped?!" Both teenagers screech in shock.
"But I didn't-"
Varian gets tackled to the ground by the other guards.
"Vari!" She shouts, about to go over to him, but more guards come over to her, pick her up, and head for the door. "Vari!"
"Mona!" Varian calls out with pain in his voice, trying to get to her, but the guards hold him back.
They take her back to the castle, where her family and friends are waiting. "Harmony!" Everyone runs up to her.
"Mom, Papa, Rapunzel!" She cries out happily, but they take it as relief for what happened. They engulf her into a group hug.
"Are you alright?" Arianna asks in concern, hands on her shoulders.
"We heard about the kidnapping," Rapunzel frowns at her.
"She was being held as a hostage in Quirin's home, by his son," The captain informs them.
"That's not what happened, at all!" Harmony shouts in defense, glaring up at him. "What happened was-"
"It's alright, Harmony," Frederic interrupts her. "You don't have to worry. You're safe now. We'll make sure that you'll never see him again."
"What? No! Papa, he-"
"We better get you some rest," Arianna lifts up her chin, seeing her tired eyes. "You'll need plenty."
They take her to her room, place her in her bed, and tuck her in. She starts to cry as she grips the necklace Varian gave to her. All she wanted was for someone to listen...and to know that Varian did not kidnap her, but they won't...and now she can never see him again? Her heart is already aching for him...she never got to answer his question…
She wanted to say yes…
Rapunzel finishes drawing the events in her journal, looking out the window. The snow has since gone away and Eugene opens the door.
"Hey, celebratory cupcake, huh?" He greets as he steps inside.
"No..." She closes her book. "No thank you..."
"Hello, Blondie? Come on! You kicked butt and saved the day, and your sister is back home. What are you upset about?"
She turns to him, frowning. "Eugene...today, I turned my back on a desperate friend in need. My sister needed someone to treat her the way she wanted, which no one gave to her. I sent the man I love to face possible death, and then did the same to my oldest friend. I entrusted the welfare of Corona to a fairytale. In a lot of ways...today was the most difficult day of my life...and part of it because I thought my sister was dead."
"Sweetheart...what are you saying?" He asks in concern.
"I...I'm not sure I want to be queen," She frowns towards him. He opens his mouth a little and she looks back towards outside.
"Hey, Rapunzel," He takes a seat next to her. "I know today was overwhelming, and I can't say I wouldn't be feeling the same way, but you becoming queen is a long time away. Just know that when that time comes, no matter what you decide...I will be right here with you."
The two hug and she smiles. "Thank you for bringing our parents home."
"Hey...you got it," He holds her cheek. "If you want, I can talk to Brownie for ya. I'm sure she's okay now."
"How can she be okay when I sent someone dear to her heart away? She probably hates me now," Rapunzel sighs a little. "And that's not something I want to become real...so I think I should be the one to talk to her."
"I understand, Blondie, but I'm not so sure if you should be the one to do that. Cass told me her reactions today, and I think what she needs is a friend...not someone who had to make a hard choice right in front of her."
"You're right...good luck," She pecks his lips and he lets go of her.
Eugene knocks first before he comes in, seeing Harmony's back to the doors, her hair rested over her pillow.
"Can I come in?"
"It's a free country," She replies back in a low voice. He shuts the door behind him and sits next to her, feeling a bit awkward. He has no idea what to even start with.
"Are you okay, Brownie?"
"You tell me," She sits up, leaning her back against the pillow. "But if I'm gonna tell you anything…will you listen? Or are you going to turn me away too?"
He cringes a bit, understanding her distrust. "Look…I know I wasn't there, but I just think that something like that happening…you're gonna want to tell someone. I just want to understand."
She hugs her knees. "You'll just tell my sister. I know you don't keep secrets from her even if you tried. I don't wanna talk about this subject for it to get around."
"Brownie…if it's gonna help yourself, then just tell me! I won't tell Rapunzel."
"I appreciate your concern, but I think you should go," She murmurs, laying back down.
"What?" He whispers slowly, feeling her start to slip away.
"I really think you need to go now, Eugene," Harmony closes her eyes.
"Harmony…I'm trying to help you, but I can't just leave you like this. I might've been a temporary king, but I'm also your sister's boyfriend. Someone you can depend on…personally, you're the smartest person I know." Her eyes widen slowly. "You're reliant, brave, kind. Anyone is lucky to have you as a little sister. I know Rapunzel is. And I know it hurts to not be heard…but you have someone that will listen. I promise you, I will keep this a secret until you say I can tell anyone."
She looks up at him slowly. "You…really think so?"
"I know so. I'm sure that they didn't mean to hurt your feelings or make you feel like a little kid, because you're not."
The girl smiles weakly at him. "…Well, it all started when…"
Varian is on his knees in front of the amber that's holding his father. He's gone, and now his princess. He hoped that when any of them found her, he would be able to get him back, but they just dragged her away before they could do anything.
"Don't worry, Dad...I will get to the bottom of this..." He murmurs slowly. "I promise," His voice breaks at the words that he was told...only for this to happen.
I will make you proud
He's lost his dad and his love in the span of a few hours.
Get the answers and set you free
Don't you worry, whatever it might take, I'm finding a way
He clenches his fists, gritting his teeth. That's all people from Corona did: take, crush hopes, and leave people like him and Mona broken. But he'd make them pay.
And I swear right now, that no matter what comes of me...
He lightly touches the amber.
Anybody who stands or has stood in my path
They're going to pay!
All of them would regret this day, and soon he'd have both his father and his princess back. She'll be by his side forever...
"They..." Ruddiger slowly backs away under the table, scared of what he's become. "Will..." He squeezes his eyes shut.
"Pay."
And the next person who would try to take her away would have to do it over his dead body.