Hey Everyone! Sorry for updating so late! Please forgive me! ;~; It was most unfortunate of me to fall sick on the day I was originally suppose to update. But thankfully I recovered as quick as I could and got right back to writing! This chapter is info filled and somewhat boring but I hope you enjoy it because the best is about to come! I promise you guys :) Anyways, enjoy my lovely viewers!

~Ashley Skye

Chapter 5: Plans, Plans, & More Plans

The last few days were work filled and I have had no time for myself. People were running in and out of the castle while we set up for the upcoming ball, which was only a couple of days away. The civilians have been wondering what's been going on, but they will know soon because today is the day that I will announce Jack and I's marriage plans.

I slammed my room door shut and was glad to finally have some time to myself, though I had to get ready for my big speech today.

I dug through my closet to find something that was suitable for the event. I pulled out a mint green collared gown. The gown was embellished with floral designs along the neckline and waistline. I slipped the dress on quickly and pulled my hair up into a neat bun. My bangs fell neatly on the right as I pinned a few loose strands on the sides.

The makeup that I had already applied today fit with the dress so I just let it be. I then walked out of my room and down the hall. One of the men I had been working with to set this whole thing up walked up to me. I couldn't remember his name so I just greeted him.

"Good Morning sir, are we all set for today?" I asked formally.

"Yes, everything is in position and your speech will be starting in ten minutes. I assume that you are prepared your Majesty?"

"Yes, thank you for all of your help over the past few days, it has been much appreciated." I thanked him with a small bow of my head. He returned the thank you as he walked off. I followed behind knowing that he was taking me to my position before the speech. We walked outside to an open area inside the gates. There was a wooden podium in the middle where people were already gathering for the big announcement. I took a deep breath as butterflies began to flutter in me. I've always had stage fright and being closed in for most of my life doesn't help that fact at all. I tried to manage to keep my cool while I waited for everyone to arrive. I then began wishing that Jack were here; I know he'd probably be talkative around me but he would keep me calm for the time being. I still haven't seen Jack since the date and I'm beginning to worry about him. I hope he comes by later today.

"All right your Majesty, you may stand to the podium now," a man instructed me. I slowly walked over to the podium and stood before all of my loyal subjects. Each one of them had a smile on their face and a look of interest. Here we go.

"My loyal subjects, as you know I have been planning to make this big announcement for a couple days and now is the time to reveal my news." I took a moment of silence, cleared my throat, and continued on.

"Recently I have been given an order to find a suitable King for Arendelle, and ladies and gentlemen I have found one." I spoke out as everyone's expression brightened.

"We are to be wedded at the end of this week… Unfortunately the wedding is to be private. But to make up for it I am throwing a ball this Wednesday here at the castle." Everyone gasped in joy. They were happy to know that another ball was going to be thrown here in Arendelle. I'm not one who enjoys balls after the incident a year ago but I shall give it another try. At least Jack will be there if anything goes wrong.

"I ask you if you'd please come and join me that day in celebration of my upcoming marriage. I promise you it will not be like the last time," I stated, trying to persuade my subjects. They all began to applaud me and I smiled out to all of them. I was happy to know that everything went well and none of them were upset to miss my wedding.

"Thank you for your time, you may continue on with your day." I said before I walked off the podium and back into the castle. I then gasped to see Jack standing and waiting for me. I ran over to him and hugged him tightly. He held on to me while he chuckled.

"Hey are you okay there?" He asked still laughing under his breath. I'm guessing he was surprised by my sudden action. I mumbled into his chest all while I kept my hold onto him. I really did miss him more than I thought.

"Yeah I'm fine, just trying to settle my nerves,"

"Okay and how did it go?"

I let go of him to answer his question.

"Um, it went well actually. They're all excited for the ball in a few days."

"That's good, I'm glad to hear that." He mentioned with a smile, and I returned it.

"So what brings you here today? Not busy I assume."

"Yeah, it turns out I had some extra time today so I decided to come and see you," he explained and he then kissed my forehead. I smiled brightly.

"Well I'm not finished setting up for the ball yet and since you're here I can use you for additional help," I suggested. He nodded his head in approval. I guided him over to the ballroom and he took my hand. I internally smiled at myself. Things are just getting better and better.

Once I made it over to the ballroom I opened the doors and revealed a half decorated dance hall. Jack observed his surroundings as he walked ahead of me.

"Wow, not bad Elsa," he complimented.

"Thank you, I didn't do much of the work but I designed it and this is the way that I wanted it to look so far; though only half of it is complete."

Jack continued to take a look around and I began to picture the last ball that took place here. The look of horror on their faces as my powers erupted and exploded out of me, and Anna's expression was just of true shock. The picturesque moment was too much for me to bear and I shook off the thought immediately. I still dreaded being in here but it was for the best.

"You okay Elsa?" Jack asked in concern. I blinked rapidly before jumping back into reality.

"Y-yeah I'm fine, it's just this place brings back some interesting memories." I mused. Jack began to look curious.

"Care to share?" He insisted with a smile. I might as well tell him, no harm done.

"Over a year ago we had a ball in this very room. It was the ball to celebrate my coronation. Everyone was there, even citizens of different countries. It was such a convivial party for everyone except me. My worries were locked up the entire time and my sister finally pushed me over the edge…" I quaked as the memories began flooding in once again.

"My powers were revealed that night and I had never been so frightened in my entire life. Every person looked at me like I was a monster or a witch. Parents were hiding their children… and some ran away in a panic." I choked out, trying to contain my sobs. I held back as best as I could. Thank goodness I have always been good at hiding my true feelings. Though I really should be open with Jack—he's going to be my husband someday.

Jack grew more and more concerned as I told my story. He put his arm around me to try and comfort me.

"I'm sorry Elsa; I shouldn't have brought it up. I feel awful now. Are you sure you still want to go through with this ball?" He asked as he rubbed my shoulder. I straightened my shoulders to try and wriggle him off of me. I began to grow slightly uncomfortable.

"No! I-It's fine—the ball will continue as planned. I'm not backing out now, it's too late for that." I reassured him. He stepped back as he observed me.

"Well let's see what help we can offer today, no time for dwelling on the past, am I right?" I wore a faux smile to brighten his spirits. He smiled along with me.

"You're right, let's go."

For the rest of the day Jack stayed with me, I was surprised since he's always so busy. With him as help we nearly finished the decorating of the dance hall. I was thrilled and all throughout the day we conversed casually and laughed joyously. I had a great day and so did he.

"Thank you for all of your help today, I couldn't have gotten this far without you,"

"No problem Elsa, it's just me making up for not being here for the past few days."

We walked down the hall and we entered my study. There weren't many papers on my desk since I had been so caught up with my work. I took a seat at my desk as he took a seat in one of the other empty chairs around the room.

"So we have some issues to acknowledge," Jack mentioned. I perked my head up to my curiosity. What issues? I hope he's not getting cold feet.

"What is it Jack?"

"Well we've never actually thought about the conflicts that could occur because of our agreement, and I have some fears that I want to share with you." He said with a grim expression. I nodded as I pressed lips together in a firm line.

"Well I am all ears Jack and we will try our best to avoid these fears you have in the future. We will take precaution and maybe even desperate measures if needed so." Jack nodded in agreement and began to divulge me.

"Well since we are trying to stop Pitch, and you don't know a thing about Pitch... I shall tell you a little bit about him." He paused for a moment before he continued.

"Pitch has the power to manipulate your dreams and turn them into nightmares; he's always watching and listening too. He could be listening to our conversation right now and there would be nothing we could do about it. But Pitch was strong before and now he's going to be stronger than ever. I fear for our lives as well as our future child's." My eyebrows knitted together at the thought of our own child being in grave danger. Why haven't I thought about this before? Pitch is our enemy and he's going to do everything in his power to sabotage our plans. This is something we must take action in. Maybe I could hire more royal guards to protect Arendelle. My thoughts were running wild, and I can't believe I haven't acknowledged these conflicts earlier. I must've been so caught up in wedding and party plans that I haven't had the time to even contemplate the consequences for accepting our destiny. I intertwined my fingers and rested my chin upon my interlocked hands.

"Have there been any signs that Pitch knows about this Prophecy yet?" I ask while I observe him. He shakes his head.

"No, not yet, but it shouldn't be much longer before he does know and comes out full force against us." I began to feel queasy as thoughts rummaged through my head and thoughts of my own family being in danger.

"Jack… I-I—I mean—are we going to be okay? I don't want our future family to be in no such danger." My anxiety was already getting the best of me and flurries began to form around my study. Jack rose from his seat as an expression of worry plastered across his face.

"Elsa, I promise you I will do everything in my power to keep us safe and sound. I assure you that we will get through this." I leaned my head up to see the determination in his eyes. I was then face to face with him when he glided himself over to me. I quizzically looked into his peaceful blue eyes trying to read him carefully.

"Do you not believe me Elsa?" He asked while cocking his head to the side.

"No, I believe you—I just hope you're right," I stated my eyes still glued to his. Jack then leaned over my desk and his face was just inches from mine. His hand suddenly raised and he placed it upon my cheek to stroke it comfortingly. I closed my eyes and leaned my head into his cold hand. Nobody can touch me like Jack can. Everyone is so uncomfortably warm but Jack's skin is as cold as ice. Such a lovely sensation is secure and like it was meant to be.

"I won't let any harm come to you, my delicate snowflake." His velvety yet rumbling voice shook me inside and out. My face then began to fluster under his hand and I jerked myself away as I covered my face.

"J-Jack," I protested embarrassingly and his lips perked up into a cheeky smile.

"Just being honest Elsa," he admits with a shrug of his shoulders. I leaned back into my chair and crossed my arms. I then close my eyes as a yawn forces to escape me. Goodness, I'm exhausted all of a sudden. I wonder what time it could be. I turn my chair around to face the only window in my study. The moon was visible and it hung high in the midnight colored sky. A few clusters of clouds were beginning to crowd around the shining orb and I just imagined the Moon spirit watching our every move—interpreting our actions. I turn back to face Jack who was also looking out the window. He wore a solemn expression as the mustering clouds cloaked the Moon and the light was soon dimmed in the study. I let out yet another long and obnoxious yawn. Jack's eyes then shifted back to me and grinned.

"You look exhausted Elsa; you should probably head to bed now—as should I go back and tend to the remains of my duties." He demanded. I slowly nodded in agreement while I rose from my seat.

"You have a good night Elsa, I will try and see you tomorrow and assist you with the rest of the decorating for the ballroom." He offered.

"That's perfectly fine Jack," I say as I walk over towards him. He steps a little closer to me and I narrowed my eyes. He then leaned down and he planted his lips upon mine. Ah, I was waiting for that. I thought as I smiled into the kiss. His arms snaked around me and pulled me closer to his frame. I couldn't help myself but to hold on to him for dear life. I really didn't want him to leave—ever. I feel so secure around him, yet there are only a few people that could make me feel that way and that were my family. Everything with him just felt right.

The kiss continued as our lips got into a heated battle once again and my nails began to dig into the fabric of his frosty blue hoodie. I was so captivated by him and I couldn't help myself but to think of him so dearly. Oh Jack I wonder what it's going to be likes spending the rest of my life with you. My thoughts began to swirl just as Jack pulled away from our kiss. We were both panting from lack of breath, and his eyes were still on mine.

"Well off you go now," he protested as he swiftly got behind me and pushed me along.

"All right, all right!" I call out as I burst into a fit of giggles. I then whipped myself around to face him, giving him a sincere look in the process.

"Goodnight Jack."

"Goodnight Elsa."

After our farewells I trekked myself out of my study, up the stairs, and into my room. I quickly slipped off my casual dress and pulled on the same nightgown I wore last night. Once fully dressed I collapsed onto my bed and fell into a deep sleep.

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That night was the first time I ever dreamed about Jack.

Annnnd done! Thank goodness because the next few chapters are all super long and super exciting! I will be sure to update next week without a doubt! I promise you guys and it will be worth the wait! :) Anyways, if you enjoyed the chapter and have any questions, comments, complaints, etc then leave me a review and I will get right back to you in a PM message. Thank you for all the favorites, follows, and reviews! You guys are the best! ^^

~Ashley Skye