Indi and Elsa sat down to a quiet, private breakfast of eggs, bacon, and oatmeal.
The pair ate silently, both consumed by their thoughts.
Elsa looked over at the young knight at the opposite end of the table from her. His eyes had glazed over, and he ate his food absentmindedly.
The events of that morning had raised several questions in her mind. Indi had returned to the castle, covered in blood.
It wasn't unusual for him to take his animals out hunting, but had he participated in the hunt? And how had he reached the window where he seemed to enter? It was above the ground floor. It was certainly possible that Sleuther could have hovered there, and Indi entered in that way, but why?
Elsa took a small bite of her oatmeal and looked at Indi once more. The white veins coming from the scar on his cheek had not healed and seemed to have gotten worse.
"Indi?"
The young man was startled, looking at her as swallowed the piece of bacon he had been eating. "Yes?"
"I have some questions for you," Elsa said.
Indi took a sip of his tea and looked at the queen expectantly. "You said you went hunting."
Indi nodded. "Deer."
"Did you feed?"
Indi heart sank. He had gotten careless. "Yes."
"How did you get into the castle this morning?"
"I… I climbed up the wall and went in through the window."
Elsa pursed her lips, and thought for a moment, staring at Indi. "Have your abilities returned?"
Indi's gaze dropped. "I don't know. In some ways." Elsa continued to stare at him, so he continued. "I'm faster again. I'm stronger. I can climb up walls. My teeth are sharper, and my claws are back.
Indi nodded. "Is there anything you want me to do today?"
"No," Elsa said. "Why don't you go out flying on Sleuther? A nice easy journey. That always seems to make you happy."
Indi nodded and smiled, before leaving the queen.
Elsa pursed her lips, and she watched the knight leave. Once he was out of sight, she walked down the halls to her throne room. It was time to hold court.
After being announced, she sat down on her throne, and she noticed that Lord Berbri of Kethen and his family were present. Lady Selova was holding a newborn baby.
The pair, along with their three boys, stepped forward. The lord bowed, while the lady bent her knees in a slight curtsy.
"Your Majesty," Lord Berbri said. "It's wonderful to finally meet you. We're glad to see you've been recovering."
"Thank you," Elsa said with a smile. "Lady Selova, I hope that you and your daughter are doing well."
"She is," Lady Selova said, gently dropping her arms slightly. Elsa rose from her throne and stepped forward. Bundled in soft blankets was a small, pale face. The girl's eyes were closed, and tiny pink lips were puckered.
The sight of the girl stirred something inside Elsa. Elsa smiled, feeling an instinctual need to protect this tiny person.
"She is beautiful," Elsa said. "Have you decided on a name?"
"Katrina," Lord Berbri said.
Elsa smiled. "A lovely choice."
Indi walked through the town, surveying the damage. Some of the buildings had been struck by dragon fire. Two lamp posts were destroyed and needed to be replaced, and a tavern needed a new sign.
He spent some time assuring the citizens that he was fine and that the rumors of the queen and himself were false.
"I cannot believe someone would have the gall to suggest you two would do such a thing," a woman said.
"Her Majesty was certainly unhappy," Indi said, nodding.
"As she should be!" a man said.
Indi managed to slip away from the crowd and made his way towards the castle. Indi went through the castle's courtyard and retrieved Sleuther's saddle. He summoned his dragon with a whistle, and Sleuther landed a short distance away, walking over.
"Hey, buddy," Indi said, rubbing the dragon's nose. "Eventful morning, eh?" The dragon rumbled in the back of his throat, seemingly in agreement.
Indi quickly wrapped the straps around Sleuther, securing the saddle. He pulled on each strap twice, making sure that it was sturdy. He climbed up onto Sleuther and gripped the saddle, before remembering.
"Copal! Emerald! C'mon girls!"
After a moment, several high-pitched squawks and roars could be heard as the two white dragons flew over the castle walls from who-knows-where. The pair hovered in the air, and Sleuther sprung upwards. Indi hung on, as Sleuther led the Indominus Furies out to sea. The small group flew, finding the salty air and wind around them refreshing.
They spent all day out in the air, only landing on a small island covered in trees around midday for a lunch of fish from the ocean, which Sleuther killed with a jet of fire.
Indi roasted his on a bed of coals, while the dragons of course ate theirs raw.
The group went back home to Arendelle, landing in the courtyard. Indi removed Sleuther's saddle, and the dragons settled down outside.
Indi went inside and caught the attention of a servant nearby.
"My lord," she said, tipping her head respectfully.
"Please inform Queen Primrose that I need to speak with her," Indi said, lowering his voice. "Discreetly."
"Of course," the woman said, tipping her head. The pair left, and Indi went to the kitchen.
He grabbed a plate of food and went to his room, where he sat on the edge of the balcony, overlooking the ocean. He propped one leg up, and let the other hang down over the edge. He ate pensively, and he heard his door open.
"Sir Indi," a female voice said. "Is everything alright?"
Indi turned to see Queen Primrose step into his room, the door closing being her.
"Your Majesty," Indi said.
The visiting queen walked over to him. "You needed to speak with me?"
"Yes," Indi said with a sigh. "It is a personal matter." The queen stepped out onto the balcony.
"What is the matter?"
"I've... I've been thinking about asking Queen Elsa to marry me."
Primrose's eyes brightened at this. "Sir Indi, that is wonderful!"
Indi smiled softly. "I just don't know what to do."
"You mean…"
"I've never been taught. I grew up just not knowing. I mean, I figured a few things out. I need a ring to give her."
Primrose nodded. "Normally, her family would need to give you a dowry, but since it would just be going back to the royal family, anyway, I think that could be negated."
Indi nodded. "I know what I want the ring to be made out of. It's a bit unorthodox, but I think she would appreciate it."
"If there's anything I can do to help, let me know," Primrose said.
"I appreciate that," Indi said, tipping his head. He went inside and grabbed a piece of parchment, writing down his ideas. "I'm sure she'll want to see me tonight." He handed the queen the piece of paper.
"She will," Primrose said as she glanced over the paper with a smile.
"Thank you for talking with me."
"Of course," she said. "I must admit, we know you two cares for each other very much; anyone who sees you two together can tell that much. We are all just waiting for you to pop the question and get things arranged."
Indi smiled sheepishly. "One thing at a time, Your Majesty."
The pair departed, and Indi returned his plate to the kitchen, before locating Elsa. She was in her study, reading over the dragon information she had transcribed into a fresh book. She seemed to be finishing a drawing of a Whispering Death.
Indi entered the room quietly and watched for a moment as the queen drew before speaking. "Hi."
"Hello, Indi," Elsa said, not looking up from the drawing. "Where did you go off to today?"
"We went to one of the islands offshore," Indi said. "It was a good day."
Elsa nodded as she dipped her pen into the inkwell and drew the dragon's spines over its slender, snakelike body. "I'm glad." after a moment, she set the drawing aside. "I have decided to attend the funeral for King Charles of the Southern Isles. I would like you to accompany me."
Indi nodded. "Of course. When is the ship leaving?"
"We are not taking a ship," Elsa said as she rose from her chair. "I was hoping you'd be open to taking Sleuther there. I assume he is going to be a part of my kingdom and its image as much as the dinosaurs have. It would be wise to make something of an introduction, informal though it may be."
"Wouldn't that put undue attention on us?" Indi asked.
"Perhaps a little," Elsa said. "But as long as we don't treat it as anything out of the ordinary, then others shouldn't either, at least very much."
Indi nodded. "Did you want to leave in the morning?"
"Yes," Elsa said.
"I'll put some things together."
The queen and the knight left each other, and Indi retired to his room.
In the morning, after a quick breakfast, Indi was in the courtyard, putting on Sleuther's saddle. He had already donned his rising armor. Two bags sat nearby: one contained a second outfit and the other held some basic equipment.
As he worked, a small crowd of people assembled nearby.
After tightening the last strap, Indi saw the royal family from Corona step up to him.
"Your Majesties," Indi said, standing up straight and resting a hand on Sleuther's head.
"Sir Indi," King Thomas said. "Please give our best to Queen Isabelle and her family."
"You aren't going?" Indi asked.
"There's no time," Queen Primrose said. "Queen Elsa also asked us to stay until she returned. We are going to stay with Princess Anna and help her here." The queen lowered her voice. "As well as keep an eye on her."
Indi nodded and glanced up to one of the windows, where he saw the red-haired princess in question. He offered a wave, which Anna returned.
"Thank you," he said.
The castle doors opened. Indi looked over to see Elsa walking over, accompanied by a servant who carried a bag, likely containing a spare outfit.
Elsa herself wore a deep blue riding outfit, similar to what noble ladies wore when riding horses.
"Sir Indi," Elsa said.
"Queen Elsa," Indi said. "If you're ready here, we can go."
Elsa nodded, turning to King Thomas, Queen Primrose, and Princess Rapunzel. "Thank you for staying to help my sister. We only plan to be gone for a few days."
"Please," Thomas said. "Take all of the time you need. There is no rush."
Elsa smiled.
From the castle, Indi saw Brynn walking over, accompanied by Copal and Emerald. The Indominus Furies were fluttering around.
"Thanks for watching them, Brynn," Indi said.
"Of course," Brynn said. "I'll take them around on my patrols. It'll do them some good to be around the townsfolk a bit."
Indi smiled. "Just keep them away from the butcher Weldon." Brynn nodded.
"Sir Indi," Elsa said. "We really should be going."
"You're right," Indi said, climbing onto Sleuther's back.
"Stay safe," Brynn said.
"When am I not safe?" Indi asked as he helped Elsa up onto the saddle behind him, his question earning him a look from the queen. "Uh, don't answer that."
Brynn passed Indi the supply bags, which Elsa clipped onto the back of the saddle.
Sleuther extended his wings and took off, soaring up into the air. Elsa wrapped her arms around Indi, hanging on. After reaching a suitable height, Sleuther leveled out, gliding through the air, only flapping his wings occasionally.
The salty air blew past the pair, flowing through their hair. Elsa relaxed her grip on Indi's torso. As soon as she did, Indi leaned back slightly, and she felt his body relax.
Elsa smiled. "You like it up here, don't you?"
"I love it." Indi turned his head to look at her out of the corner of his eye. "After being kept in a cage for so long, flying dragons is the ultimate freedom."
"I understand," Elsa said, the statement truer than most would say. Even when she rode on Sleuther, she felt that sense of freedom as well, especially after being kept in her room away from Anna and most other people for most of her childhood.
Indi sighed. "What if… what if we could just leave? Take the dinosaurs and the shifters and just all fly away."
"Where is this coming from?" Elsa asked.
"I just… I want to…" Indi said. "I'm tired, Elsa. I'm tired of the fighting. I'm tired of the formalities."
Elsa hugged him from behind. "You've been doing so well, Indi. I know you aren't the best at this way of life. But I see you trying, and you've done well."
"You won't leave though," Indi said. Elsa said nothing. "You can't, and I can't expect you to, especially with everything going on."
It was Elsa's turn to sigh. "It certainly is not possible, currently. It's also extremely difficult otherwise, even in favorable times."
"But, if you could, would you?"
"I don't know, Indi," Elsa said. "Perhaps for a little."
The pair sat in silence for hours as Sleuther flew southeasternward. Eventually, Sleuther landed on a small island.
The pair made a small camp, and the dragon lit a fire. Indi removed the bags and saddle from Sleuther so he could take a break from carrying everything and set the items underneath a tree. Sleuther took off and began flying just above the water to catch fish.
"Elsa," Indi said as the pair sat down near their fire to watch the dragon. "We are from two completely different worlds."
"We live in the same world, Indi," Elsa said.
"You know what I mean," Indi said. "If things had been different, do you think that you would have liked me?"
Elsa smiled. "If I had gotten to know you. However, even if you were a nobleman, it is extremely unlikely we would have the relationship that we do now. By now, I likely would have entered into a marriage for political lines, likely in alliance with another kingdom.
"If you were a peasant or even a merchant, it is extremely unlikely that I would see you, let alone get to know you."
Our over the ocean, Sleuther let out a jet of fire. After a moment, he doubled back and grabbed several motionless fish from the waves. Indi pursed his lips. "I was wondering, if I hadn't been sent to capture you, and had a normal life-"
"We probably wouldn't have met, no," Elsa said, putting an arm around Indi's shoulders. "But we have, and we're here now. Our experiences help make us who we are. If things had been different, we might not be where we are now."
"It could have been better," Indi said. "But I'm glad how it turned out so far."
Sleuther returned, offering one of the less burnt fish to the pair.
"Thank you, Sleuther," Elsa said. The pair roasted the fish over their campfire, and shared their small lunch, before loading up their supplies and resuming their journey.
Queen Isabelle stood in the window, dressed in black, looking out over her kingdom. The sun had started to set on the horizon. Underneath the flag of the Southern Isles was a black flag, and all of the banners in the town had been replaced with black.
Suddenly, a cacophony of screams from outside the castle sounded out. The queen jumped from her torpor and ran out of the room.
Her eldest son met her in the halls and the pair ran through the corridors.
"Isak!"
"Mother," the man said, sporting a well-kept red beard. "What's going on?"
"I was about to ask you the same," Isabelle said. As the pair made it to the castle's receiving room, they encountered a large man with short, black hair. He was donned in silvery armor and a red cape trailed behind him.
"Your Majesties," the man said, bowing.
"What's going on, general?"
General Markus straightened. "There are panicked reports of a beast flying over the kingdom."
"A flying beast?" Queen Isabelle said.
Outside of the castle, an otherworldly roar sounded out. The trio barged out and saw a reptilian creature with bat-like wings land in the castle courtyard, people screaming and running to get away from the threat.
Queen Isabelle could only describe the creature as a dragon. It had large, bony projections or horns on the back of its large head. Its forelimbs were in the shape of the pincers of a lobster or a scorpion. The mouth was large and wide, with big triangular teeth pointing down from the top jaw. Its eyes were small, yet piercing, the slit pupils surrounded with yellow, orange, and red.
Climbing down from the dragon's back were two figures, a man and a woman. The queen recognized them immediately.
"I suppose that could have gone smoother," Elsa said as Indi helped her down.
"This was your idea to bring him," Indi said as he untied the bags from the saddle, before scratching Sleuther on top of his head, the dragon closing his eyes for a moment.
Indi turned to the crowd. "It's alright, everyone! We mean no harm."
Indi noticed two men and a woman walking up to them.
Elsa stood up straight and nudged Indi, who did the same, being sure to keep a hand on Sleuther's neck.
"Queen Elsa," Isabelle said. "Sir Indi."
Elsa tipped her head and Indi bowed.
"Queen Isabelle," Elsa said.
"Welcome you to the Southern Isles," Isabelle said. "And thank you for coming."
"Thank you," Elsa said. "And of course."
Isabelle looked at the dragon, with some hesitation.
"This is the crown prince," Isabelle said. "Prince Isak."
Elsa looked the man up and down, smiling. "Well met, Prince Isak."
"And you as well, Queen Elsa," the man said, smiling.
"I don't believe you have had the pleasure of meeting Sir Indi Rex," Elsa said, motioning to the young man who had accompanied her.
Indi tipped his head respectfully.
"Ah, Sir Indi Rex," Prince Isak said. "I've heard about you."
"Good things, I hope," Indi said, tipping his head.
"From the right people," Isak said. "All good things."
"Come," Isabelle said. She signaled to a servant. "You must be tired after your long journey. Sir Indi, if you wish, your… dragon... can be kept in the stables."
As though he were insulted by such an offer, Sleuther roared and took flight, before landing on the roof of the castle.
"That's… ah," Indi said, glancing at Elsa before looking back at his dragon. "That's not exactly ideal."
"I apologize," Elsa said. "Sleuther isn't a big fan of being locked in small spaces."
"You could have at least let me take off the saddle!" Indi shouted. Sleuther snorted, settling down on top of the castle. "Fine, keep it."
"I do ask that Sleuther is not to be bothered," Elsa said.
Queen Isabelle gestured for some servants to collect her visitors' bags. "Come." The queen led the pair into her castle, followed by her son and the large, dark-haired man. "You are dismissed, General Markus." The general nodded and bowed.
"Your Majesties," he said, before returning to Indi. "My Lord." He left, his heavy footfalls fading off.
"Isak, I'll let take care of our guests," Isabelle said, before turning to the visiting queen and knight. "Should you need anything at all, please find me or my son."
Elsa nodded. "Thank you."
The older queen started to turn when the knight's voice stopped her. "Your Majesty?"
Isabelle turned, clearly doing her best to conceal her emotions. "Yes?"
"I know you're probably tired of hearing this, but I'm sorry." Indi cleared his throat. "You have my condolences. If there is anything I can do, please tell me."
Isabelle smiled sadly, giving a slight nod, before turning to walk away.
"We have some rooms set up for you," Isak said after a moment.
Isak led the pair through the halls, followed by the small group of servants.
"Your room is here, Your Majesty."
"Thank you, Prince Isak," Elsa said, entering the room. One of the servants placed one of the bags inside the room, before stepping out.
"Dinner will be in about an hour. You both are more than welcome to join me and my family." Elsa nodded.
"Follow me, Sir Indi," Isak said. The knight followed the prince to a room a short way down the hall. "And here is your room, Sir."
One of the servants opened the door, and Indi stepped in. The room was very posh, with a sofa, a bed, a small fireplace, and a writing desk. Several fresh candles dotted the room.
"Thank you," Indi said. Two servants set down his bags before leaving.
Prince Isak looked Indi up and down quickly, before the group left, closing the door behind them.
Indi took a deep breath and sighed. Everyone here seemed on edge, which, considering what occurred here recently, made sense.
He lay on the bed and closed his eyes. The room had a certain, clean scent that was different from the rooms at the castle in Arendelle.
After a short while, he was roused by a quiet knocking on the door. He rose, the bed creaking beneath him. He walked over to the door and opened it. Standing in the doorway was Elsa. She had changed into a light blue dress.
"Hello," she said.
"Hi," Indi said.
"May I come in?"
"Sure." Indi stepped aside, and Elsa entered the room. He closed the door behind her.
"Did I do alright?" Indi asked. "With interactions with the queen and prince, I mean."
Elsa smiled softly, taking Indi's hands, her skin cold against his. "You did wonderfully. A bit informal, but anyone could tell that your heart was in the right place. That's the most important thing."
Indi smiled and looked at Elsa. "I'm trying."
"I know you are," Elsa said. "Why don't you go take Sleuther out fishing? Dinner will be ready soon." Indi nodded and the pair left his room. They walked through the halls, taking only two wrong turns, before finding the way to the doors that led to the courtyard. They stepped outside.
"Sleuther!" Indi called. "Let's go get some food, buddy!" After a moment, Sleuther landed behind the pair. "There you are." Indi climbed up onto his back.
"Don't take too long," Elsa said.
"We'll do our best," Indi said. Elsa stepped back and Sleuther sprung into the air, the wind from his wing beats blowing her dress and hair.
Elsa watched for a moment as Indi and Sleuther flew off over the ocean.
Elsa went back to her room, where two servants offered to help her get ready for dinner. She accepted their assistance gratefully, and the women began brushing Elsa's hair and gently washing her face with a damp cloth.
They then applied some fresh makeup to the queen: some lipstick, blush, and eyeshadow.
Indi hung on to the saddle as Sleuther flew close to the water, the waves zipping underneath them. Sleuther shot a jet of fire into the water, stunning some fish, which floated to the surface. As he did earlier that day, he doubled back and snapped them from the ocean in his jaws, swallowing them quickly.
After catching and eating a few more fish, Sleuther flew upwards. Indi hung on, letting the dragon go where he wished. As the dragon flew, Indi saw that, true to the name, the Southern Isles was made up of several large islands, most of them inhabited, with many having small towns on them. Each island was roughly the size of the Isle of Berk, or at least what he'd seen of it.
"Alright, bud," Indi said. "Let's head back," Sleuther grunted, and banked into a turn. As they approached the island with the castle, he dove towards the water snatching one last large fish from the water, carrying it in his jaws.
The pair landed in the courtyard and Indi removed Sleuther's saddle.
The dragon settled down, now more comfortable, and bit the head off of the large fish he had caught. Indi rubbed the dragon's head and took the saddle.
He inquired with a servant as to where he could find the stables and was directed behind a partial wall.
Indi thanked him and carried the saddle behind. Several lit lanterns provided plenty of light. As he got closer, he heard the voice of Prince Isak in a heated discussion with someone who had a familiar voice.
"I frankly don't care what you have to say about it," Isak said. "They are our guests, invited by Mother, and you are to stay away from them. It's up to us to repair our kingdom's reputation, which you have damaged.
"If you had just been content, Hans, we wouldn't be here."
Indi steeled himself and entered.
"Surely you've heard what she's been doing with that monstrous knight of hers?" Hans said.
"I do not care for rumors, brother," Isak said.
"Rumors are quite ugly," Indi said, making his presence known. The pair of men turned to him. "Prince Isak, is there somewhere I can put this?" He motioned to Sleuther's saddle.
"You're welcome to hang it over there with the others," Isak said.
"Hans," Indi said, before hanging up the dragon's saddle next to those made for horses.
"You two have met then, I trust?" Isak said.
"Yes," Indi said, turning back to the princes. "During his last visit to Arendelle, your little brother here shot one of my best friends with a crossbow."
Isak scowled at Hans. "I deeply apologize for that."
Indi leaned back against the wall. "I'm not the one who should receive an apology. If Brynn sees Hans again, she'll kill him."
"You don't understand, Isak," Hans said. "These people, his friend, they can change into monstrous reptiles, and now this one has a dragon."
"Yes, I've met Sir Indi's dragon," Isak said.
"And you're still-"
"Enough," Isak said, cutting off his brother. "I don't have time to deal with this. Like I told you, stay away from Queen Elsa and Sir Indi. And especially, stay away from their dragon." Isak turned to Indi. "Come. Let us go eat. My wife is honestly excited to meet you and the queen."
"Me?" Indi said as the pair left Hans in the stables.
"Indeed," Isak said. "A young queen, accompanied by a slightly younger knight and riding a dragon. Your arrival has stirred the curiosity in the kingdom."
"That wasn't our intention," Indi said. "Riding Sleuther was just the fastest and easiest way to get here."
"Not to worry," the prince said.
The pair walked by the dragon, who was finishing his fish and went into the castle.
Isak led Indi through the halls. They soon came to a large, stained oak door. One of the servants who was posted outside the door nodded and slipped inside. His voice sounded out into the hallway.
"Presenting Prince Isak and Sir Indi Rex."
The servant then opened the door for the men and stepped aside.
The dining room was opulent. Marble floors and a beautiful wooden table. The ceiling was covered in a beautiful mosaic, clearly painted by a talented artist.
Sitting at the table was Elsa, along with a woman with dark brown hair and two children, a boy, and a girl, both of whom had brown hair like the woman. The girl seemed to be a few years older than her brother, perhaps coming up in her early teenage years.
Everyone at the table rose, greeting the newcomers.
Isak sat at the head of the table, while Elsa sat at the other side. Indi sat between Elsa and the new woman. Across the table, the two children sat.
"Queen Elsa, Sir Indi," Isak said. "This is Princess Olivia, my wife."
"Well met, Princess Olivia," Elsa said.
"And this is Princess Selma and Prince Colby."
Elsa nodded and smiled at the children. Prince Isak motioned to some servants who were standing nearby, and they disappeared through a small door. A moment later, several servants appeared, each carrying a plate of food. Each person at the table received a plate of food and a cup of what Indi could only describe as some sort of slightly spicy hot chocolate.
As the small group began to eat, Princess Olivia spoke.
"Queen Elsa, Sir Indi," she began. "I must inquire."
Elsa motioned for her to continue.
"How did you manage to tame such a beast as the one you arrived here on?"
"That would be Sir Indi's doing," Elsa said.
"I spent quite a bit of time up north," Indi said, "living with a group of Vikings. Those in the group I lived with rode dragons. Forged bonds of friendship with them."
"Vikings?" Prince Isak said.
"Lovely people," Elsa said. "A bit coarse and rough, but like with dragons, once you make friendships and alliances with them, they are the exact type of person you want to be with you through anything. Many of them, from our experiences, are bound to their word, sometimes to a fault. Sir Indi, for all his grace with his duties, seemed to enjoy his time with them."
"Dragon-riding Vikings…" Isak said.
Indi continued. "After some time, we found him, being used in gladiatorial combat with other dragons.
"Shortly after I arrived in that territory, I found myself in something of a guerilla war between the dragon riders and a company of hunters that specialized in the capture and sale of dragons and their body parts."
"Dragon riders and dragon hunters," Princess Olivia said.
"Exactly," Indi said. "Now, normally I would have probably kept out of the fight and waited for Queen Elsa's direction on what to do, but I was in unfamiliar lands, among people that I didn't know. I had to choose, though I feel I chose correctly.
"But, since then, those hunters have made themselves our mutual enemies. They've attacked us, several times, and sided with our other enemies."
"But aren't dragons dangerous?" Isak asked.
"They can be," Elsa said. "But, in our experience, they more often than not want nothing to do with humans. It takes a certain bond for a dragon to willingly stay with a particular person. If he wished, Sleuther probably would fly off and live on his own, establish his territory. But he and Sir Indi have a connection, as do all dragon riders, and I believe he likes me well enough."
The royal family ate in silence for a moment.
The young Princess Selma spoke, her voice quiet. "Would we be able to get a dragon, Father?"
"Ah…" Prince Isak said. "I don't think so."
"Dragons are a lot of work, princess," Indi said. "I have three, and I'm always busy with my duties to Queen Elsa and to the dragons. What's more, is that I never planned on getting dragons. All of mine sort of happened, and once you forge that bond, it is nearly impossible to break. They will want to be with you, and you will have a responsibility to care for them. Many of the ones I have seen are large, and they can be dangerous."
"Training them is also a big task," Elsa said. "You can't let them run around doing whatever they wish, and training takes time. It also depends on the personality of the dragon; they are all different. Some settle into life with humans somewhat easily, others need a lot of work."
The young princess nodded.
"We got lucky with Sleuther," Indi said. "They're not all like him."
The table fell silent again for a moment and the small group ate.
"However, princess," Elsa said, not wanting the girl to be completely disappointed. "If a dragon does arrive here, and it wants to stay, and your mother and father say it's alright and that you're ready, I'm sure Sir Indi would be perfectly happy to help you with it."
Indi smiled and nodded, which seemed to raise the girl's spirits. They had not made any promises, but the possibility of having a dragon was enough for Princess Selma, at least for now.
As the group finished their meal, the royal family's governess collected the children to prepare them for bed.
The four adults went to the castle's study, where a fireplace roared lowly. Lining the walls were shelves of books. The prince and princess sat on one small sofa, while Indi and Elsa sat together on another.
"We're going to have to keep an eye on that girl," Indi said. "The last thing right now we all need is her taking Sleuther for an unsupervised dragon ride."
"Are dragons really such good companions?" Prince Isak said.
"I'd say so," Elsa said. "Sleuther has protected Sir Indi numerous times. We meant what we said about them."
"If the time does come for your daughter to get a dragon," Indi said, "and I will agree that it is a big 'if', it certainly wouldn't be a wholly bad thing. As Queen Elsa said, I'd be happy to help her with it. Though, I will say, some types might be better suited for her than others. I don't think a Monstrous Nightmare, or a Whispering Death would be ideal."
Elsa shook her head. "Perhaps a Deadly Nadder?"
Indi cocked his head and furrowed his brow slightly. "That could work… of course, that all depends on if one shows up here, or we'll have to go north when she finds one." Across from them, the prince and princess's eyes were widening at the names their visitors were listing off.
"We apologize," Elsa said. "The names of some dragons are somewhat misleading."
"You would take her north?" Princess Olivia asked.
"When she's much older," Indi said. "And with your permission."
Elsa smiled. "To be frank, it wouldn't take much to convince Sir Indi to go back."
"Let's see, the first dragon riders got their dragons when they were fourteen, fifteen years old." Indi rubbed his chin. "Sometime around that might be alright for the princess."
"That's only a few years away," Prince Isak said. "I'm not sure if we want the entire kingdom to have dragons. That could be a huge risk, especially if they end up in the wrong hands."
"Why not pass a law that only members of the royal family can have them?" Elsa said. "That way, you can keep them in check."
"Like a status symbol?"
"It's certainly a possibility," Elsa said with a nod. "Or perhaps just one dragon for each of your brother's families, should they wish."
"Hans isn't getting one," Princess Olivia said. "I won't allow it."
"All hypothetical, my dear," Isak said. "But it is a decent idea, assuming it happens."
"Just something to consider," Elsa said.
"Indeed." Isak nodded his head. "Well, I'm going to go make sure that the children are in bed. I shall be back shortly."
"Take whatever time you need," Elsa said.
The prince walked out of the room. After a moment, Princess Olivia smiled at the pair. "Forgive me for being bold, but you two are lovely together."
Both Elsa and Indi's eyes widened.
"Oh, we're not…" Indi began.
"I'm aware that there is nothing official," Olivia said. "But anybody with eyes can see it."
"We are aware what we are doing is certainly unorthodox," Elsa said. "And you may have heard of some rumors."
"Rumors are ugly things," Princess Olivia said. "I've heard some, but I pay them no mind. All royals have rumors about them from people trying to tarnish their reputations. You know that just as well as I do, Your Majesty."
The pair seemed to shift uncomfortably. "Believe me," Elsa said. "I'm fully aware. But, with all of the happenings that have occurred, can we be so open? You've seen through it, and yet we've only met today."
"All I wish is that you two are happy," Olivia said. "And know that while you are here in our home, you will not need to worry about rumors. Please, simply be yourselves. You came to us when diplomatic relations weren't quite the best, and when the whole family is reeling from tragedy. If we can offer a place for you to relax, somewhat away from the demands of royal life, please take the opportunity. Life is too short to not show that you two love each other."
Elsa looked down. "There is another problem. Indi, I don't want to force you to live a life you hate." Princess Olivia watched for a moment, so Elsa continued. "Sir Indi, during his time with the Vikings, seems to have found his place. The free, adventuring spirit that he has is shared by the people there."
"I will admit," Indi said. "I don't like the stiffness of castle life. But I do deeply care for Queen Elsa. I will do whatever she needs me to. She took me in, she helped me. She gave me a place to just... be myself." Elsa took the young knight's hand.
Princess Olivia smiled. "You two are good for each other."
"Thank you, Princess Olivia," Elsa said. "I'm going to retire for the night."
"I'll send some servants to your room to help you change," Princess Olivia said. "But before you go, in two days, Isak will be coronated as king of the Southern Isles. You both are welcome to stay and attend."
"Thank you," Elsa said. "Sir Indi and I will discuss it in the morning." She turned to Indi. "Don't stay up too late." Indi gave a gentle nod. Elsa rose and seemed to hesitate, before bending over and giving Indi a quick peck on the cheek, before exiting the room.
Princess Olivia summoned a servant and informed her to fetch some others and attend to the visiting queen. The servant bowed and left on quiet feet. After a few moments of near silence, the only sound coming from the crackling fire, Indi spoke.
"Would you happen to know where Queen Isabelle is?" he asked. "I haven't seen her since we arrived."
"Her Majesty has been taking most of her meals in private," Olivia said.
Indi nodded, understanding.
Suddenly, the door to the study opened. The knight and the princess looked over to see a man walking in. He had red hair and sideburns.
"Hans," Olivia said as the young prince sat down next to her.
"Olivia," Hans said.
"I do believe that your brother wanted you to stay away from our guests."
"This is my home as well," Hans said. "The stables have been mucked out, and it's late, so I think I could enjoy some time with my family."
A voice from the back of Indi's mind growled. I say we eat him. It had been a bit since Indi had heard that voice.
"Your brother specifically stated-"
"I know what my brother said," Hans said firmly. "Besides, I merely wanted to make sure that my sister-in-law, and the future queen of the kingdom, was safe around him."
Indi raised an eyebrow.
"I'm perfectly safe," Olivia said. "Sir Indi has been lovely company."
"Yes, that's what Queen Elsa said as well, I'm sure." Indi tensed, readying his arm and licking his lips. "After all, surely you've heard about what he's done to her."
Indi's gaze darkened. "Talk about me all you want, I frankly don't care, but don't talk about her that way."
"Hans," Olivia said. "That's enough. I will not have you spreading rumors about our guests in front of them."
"Please," Hans said, leaning back. "Surely, think for a minute. A young man traveling alone with a beautiful, albeit a bit frigid, queen; what sort of sordid activities they've gotten up to, I wonder?"
Indi clenched his fist, feeling his claws poking into his palm. If he hadn't been a guest, he would have jumped at the chance to beat Hans senseless.
From the darkness, a hand grabbed Hans by the throat, yanking him to his feet.
"What did I tell you, boy?" Isak said, glaring daggers at the young prince.
The doors slammed open, and Queen Isabelle stalked into the room. "Hans! You were told to stay away from Queen Elsa and Sir Indi. Not only did you disobey me, but you also proceeded to insult them and their character to Sir Indi's face with your filthy lies.
"Leave."
"But, Mother, I-" Hans began.
"Out!" Isabelle shouted, pointing at the door. The young prince walked out of the room, his head low.
"I am so sorry, Sir Indi," Isabelle said, sitting next to Indi. "Please forgive us."
Indi forced a smile. "Perhaps, it would be best if we kept this between us. Queen Elsa has enough going on at the moment."
"I agree." The older queen nodded. "Perhaps we should all go to bed."
Indi agreed. "Yes, I think we've all had a trying day."
Queen Isabelle rose and left the room.
"You looked about ready to tear Hans' head off, Sir Indi," Isak said.
"To be honest, I was considering it," Indi said. "But I decided against it. I'd hate to give your staff more work cleaning up the mess."
Princess Olivia laughed dryly.