The Heroic Seven

by MaloKen 17

The Frozen and Tangled characters peer into the future and to their horror witnessed the world attacked and decimated by creatures of ultimate darkness. But there are those who would defy this fate. Join Anna, Elsa, Rapunzel and their families as they watch their children from the post apocalyptic future cross the boundaries of time to prevent the Storm of Unquiets.

16. The Day of the Princess

Thank you all for waiting.

Good news:

This fanfic is now also available on Wattpad and AO3. There is even a Spanish version on Wattpad.

Also, I posted another 2 drawings on Deviantart since my last update, please have a look.

Now, please enjoy.

•••

Chapter 16

The morning began with another beautiful sunrise in Arendelle. People living locally and from afar prepared their mornings with various activities to awaken their bodies for the day.

As for our favourite group of people:

"HIIYAH!" Yelled Anna.

Anna swung her wooden training sword up then down and around.

"All movements starts from the ground up. Remember to push off with your feet, then you twist your hips and finally your arms." Lady Caine instructed.

The former pirate leader demonstrated the movements of each sword strike step by step while the Arendellian queen followed.

The royal family had suggested that today they start the screening later in the afternoon, a good chance for the visitors to explore Arendelle, mingle and just enjoy themselves for a moment. The witch was happy to comply.

It was at the training grounds of Arendelle's army base where Anna and friends have decided to spend their morning. A healthy bout of physical exercise to wake the body, no doubt motivated by Novak's training montage and subsequent victory over Kroza Kul.

Anna swung her wooden sword fiercely in a downward diagonal strike, dusts were raised and the very air itself can be seen whitening as the training weapon parted through with sundering force and speed. Perhaps too much force and speed. The training sword slipped from Anna's fingers!

"EEK!"

Rapunzel, Cassandra, Elsa, Eugene, Hans, Kristoff, Mattias, Frederic, Arianna, Willow, Edmund, Patchy and Sideburns and every guest in the training grounds all dove for cover. A person would generally want to avoid a solid object thrown at them, an object thrown by Anna is almost certainly fatal.

"Whoops. Sorry everyone!" Anna apologised.

Her family and friends grumbled and resumed their own activities.

Lady Caine observed Anna, her own training sword planted tip first on the pavement as she gauged the queen's performance. The former pirate leader looked over to where Anna's thrown sword struck and impaled a straw dummy. The dummy's head slumped forward, looking very dead.

"It was a good start, at least you're definitely not lacking in the strength department." Lady Caine offered her encouragement.

"Thanks for these lessons, Caine. It feels great learning a style that is different to Arendelle's standard sword and shield." Chuckled Anna.

The show of thanks brought a faint smile onto Lady Caine's lips, the pirate leader looked to the clouds, where her thoughts drifted back on the latest screening.

"Listen, Anna. About what happened at The Southern Isles. Your son and your daughter did a real solid for Novak, as did Neoma, Flynn, Wrenn and Eri." Lady Caine lowered her gaze onto the wooden sword in her hands. "As a former pirate, I use to believe that such comradery existed only in fairy tales or in the fantasies of poets. But the children have shown me that I was mistaken."

Lady Caine raised her gaze back up to Anna with a welcoming smile and genuine appreciation in her eyes.

"I will never forget it. So if you, your sister, Rapunzel or anyone else ever need help with swords, or if you have interests in any other weapons, I'll always be happy to teach you what I know."

"Aww. Thanks, Caine." Anna chirped.

The queen and the former pirate leader merrily explored other weapons that may suit Anna. That was until the queen started giggling.

"What's so funny?"

"Oh I was just reflecting on how Aidan, Novak and Flynn fought off the Southern Guards. And that got me thinking."

Anna grinned. Her eyes full of mischief.

"If it had been you, me and Rapunzel caught in that situation. Do you think the three of us could punch our way out?" Asked Anna, raising a spiked gauntlet.

Lady Caine laughed.

"Can't let our boys show us up."

••• Nearby •••

"It never ceases to amaze me how swimmingly Caine and Anna are getting along." Said Hans, pointing his thumb at the direction of his wife and ex-fiance.

"Heh, you've never seen how Rapunzel and Cassandra started off." Chuckled Eugene. "You'll be blown away by how opposites attract."

Hans and Eugene were meanwhile training Kristoff under the insistence of Anna. The mountain man swung the wooden sword left and right whilst holding the shield in his opposite hand. He was rather crude.

"So what do you think?" Huffed Kristoff.

"I think you're doing well, I don't see what the issue is. You fight like a marauder." Said Eugene. "Never mess with marauders."

Hans snickered. It was obvious that Eugene was referring to the thugs back home. But Kristoff appeared disheartened despite the complement. And Hans could already guess the reason why.

"You're using swords because that is what is expected of you, isn't it?" Asked Hans.

Picking up a training sword himself the former prince reflected on old customs.

"The sword symbolises power, protection, authority, strength, and courage; metaphysically, it represents discrimination and the penetrating power of the intellect. The sword is phallic, with the sheath being yonic. It is a symbol of knighthood and chivalry." Hans recited an age old proverb

"It is the natural weapon of choice for royalty. But I get the feeling a sword is not your first choice."

"No." Kristoff confessed. "Like you said, it's an expectation. But I will do what I must to be the right prince consort for Anna and for Arendelle."

Eugene understood all too well the predicament that Kristoff faced. Luckily however.

"Pfft. My dad is a king and he totes his axe around while wearing a bear cloak like a barbarian." Eugene scoffed. "And take a look at Rapunzel. Her weapon of choice is hardly ideal."

The three men looked back to where Anna and Lady Caine practiced. And there they saw Rapunzel approach the two women, proudly twirling a rope with a frying pan tied to the end. Rapunzel accidentally hit herself, but the hard headed queen simply laughed it off.

"Eugene is right, Kristoff. There is no question that you and Anna could both hold your own in a fight." Said Hans. "Times have changed. Don't let old customs restrict you. Use what you like, how you like, on who you don't like... That last part Sideburns and Patchy would say."

Taking Hans's words into consideration, Kristoff left to browse the armoury racks. A vast assortment of weapons awaited him and Kristoff took his time testing each one.

"Hmm. This could take him a while." Said Hans.

"Hey, Hans eh-. Wait... do you mind me calling you Hans? Or do you prefer Nash?" Asked Eugene.

Hans's features darkened, he felt lost at the question. He had long ago turned his back on that name. And that screening from the previous night should well be the final nail in 'Hans Westergaard's' proverbial coffin.

Yet his thoughts also drifted to the sad look of hurt from his mother, then Lars, and at last to little Timothy who he had never met but wished he did. There was still a part of his old life he did not want to let go.

Also, with his identity exposed, many people will refer to him as Hans whether he liked it or not; Anna and Elsa certainly still do.

Thankfully 'Hans' isn't such a bad name anymore, no longer an urban slang synonymous to deceiver or two-faced betrayer. People now actually speak his old name with respect.

This was a strange position for the former prince, and it will affect his family for the foreseeable future. If there is still a future.

"Hans and Nash are both fine. Either way, I better get used to answering to both names." Sighed Hans.

"Glad you're taking back your old name. Trust me, it feels better to restore it than to run away from it." Eugene encouraged.

•••

"Like this, Elsa." Said Cassandra.

The raven haired warrior swung an arm-blade in a circular floral pattern, her movements were controlled and steady, an easy technique to follow. Cassandra finished her demonstration with a horizontal body slash.

"At least that's how I interpreted it, based on Novak, Neoma and Eri's performances." Said Cassandra. "It has been a long time since I used an arm-blade myself."

Elsa conjured an ice blade along the length of her right forearm. She couldn't simply morph her forearm into a blade like Eri did, so Elsa formed the blade in Neoma's fashion. Elsa did her best to mimic Cassandra's movements. She hissed, after missing a step.

"Sorry. Sword fighting has never been my forte." Elsa sighed. "For so long I have kept my powers hidden, even after it was made public I did my best to show that my powers are safe and non-threatening. Using my ice magic to fight or make weapons was never an option."

With a look of self doubt, Elsa turned to face her trainer.

"I guess you must be disappointed, huh Cassandra?"

But Cassandra was in her own thoughts.

Elsa's word had thrown Cassandra back to a time when she still possessed the Moonstone. A power she had abused.

Cassandra turned her arm-blade, the last time she used such a weapon she tried to smash the mural Rapunzel painted. She had intimidated, threatened and hurt her friends, the people she was supposed to love.

Did Elsa really think she had disappointed her?

"No, Elsa. The truth is, I wish I had been more like you."

Cassandra looked down at her own reflection on her arm-blade and saw herself grimace. Whenever she pictured herself with blue hair she could never bring herself to smile.

A gentle hand was placed over her's and Cassandra looked up to see Elsa smiling warmly at her.

"Cassandra. I don't presume to know what had happened in the past, but I do know it was in fact 'in the past.'" Said Elsa.

Slowly Elsa turned Cassandra's arm-blade so that both of them could see there own reflections. It was then that Elsa finally took a stand.

"I am done being scared, done with carrying my childhood accident, done with hiding. From now on I will accept my powers because I will use it proudly for the good of others." Elsa stated.

The Snow Queen turned to her friend.

"Cassandra. You may not have your powers anymore, but I know for a fact that if you still did you would definitely use it for good, am I right?" Asked Elsa.

"You bet I would."

Cassandra looked down at her arm-blade which bore the reflection of herself with Elsa.

"You've become quite a motivational speaker, Elsa." Cassandra smiled.

"My daughter has rubbed off on me, as I am sure Neoma has for you."

It was true. The way Neoma demonstrated true loyalty, love and friendship to those around her. Cassandra thought back on all of her daughter's deeds and knew that was what she should strive to be.

"Great. Now care to keep showing me how arm-blades work?" Asked Elsa.

•••

Mattias and Arianna stood at the officer's podium where the kingdom's general usually oversaw the training of the kingdom guards.

"Well. This certainly brings back memories."

"How so, princess?" Smiled Mattias.

"Ha. Well for one thing, there is you calling me 'princess' again." Chuckled Arianna.

She cast her gaze around at the younger generations in training and recalled an old memory.

••• Flashback •••

A tiny Arianna and a pint sized Willow sat at a table, quietly stitching embroidery; an activity popular among fine ladies. It was a skill that required focus and concentration, naturally it came as no surprise that the girls grew annoyed when someone interrupted them.

"Alright, it's my first day of training!"

An excited little Agnarr bounced on his toes on the carpeted floors of the palace study hall. The nine year old toted his wooden sword while his younger sisters rolled their eyes at him.

"I'm ready, I'm ready, I'm ready." Agnarr sang.

"Practice all you like, I will still whip your ass." Chirped a six year old Willow, waving her needle and thread.

"Wilhelmina!" An eight year old Arianna scolded. That was obscenity level of profanity coming from someone so small.

It was then that a teenage Mattias stepped into the study hall to collect Agnarr.

"Ahem. Prince Agnarr, it is time."

Young Mattias gestured for Agnarr to make for the exit. Then he bowed at the two girls.

"Princesses."

And with that the prince and the cadet marched to the barracks.

••• End of Flashback •••

"And I was right. I still whipped his ass after all that sword training!" Laughed Willow.

Arianna huffed as her younger sister approached Mattias and her while twirling a barbed whip. A barbaric weapon made less for killing and more for maiming, Arianna wondered how such devices have not been banned.

"Picking fights with boys even when you were knee height. Why should I expect you to behave any differently now?" Chuckled Mattias.

The three of them laughed. For a moment the mood was delightful, but the sweet memories also brought with them a sad reminder of lost.

"I miss Agnarr and Iduna." Willow whined. Her bubbliness deflated.

"They are still with us, Willow."

Arianna reached her hand out to her younger sister.

"Like us, they are watching the new generation of kings and queens with pride in their hearts. Just as Rapunzel, Anna and Elsa are watching the new generation of princes and princess."

•••

Varian had made himself comfortable at a workbench in the armoury, where he studied and tinkered the weapons available.

"Varian, you're up!"

The distant shout nearly made Varian fall off his seat.

"Wait, me!?" The alchemist exclaimed.

"What. Did you think you were exempted from training?" Grinned Hans. "Grab a sword and give Eugene what for!"

•••

The time has come to resume the screening. Eugene took his seat, all the while nursing a fresh lump on his head.

"Varian really took you by surprise, didn't he?" Chuckled Kristoff.

"He lives with Cassandra. You should have known she'd forcefully teach him a few tricks." Said Hans.

A grumbling Eugene slumped on husband seat as the magical screen re-emerged.

"Wooh! So this is home sweet home." Whooped Aidan with arms spread.

The audience gasped. The seven teenagers were passing through the country side of Arendelle!

"Oh my gosh!" Anna squealed.

"They are finally here!" Exclaimed Kristoff.

"Wow, this place looks so relaxing." Gasped Wrenn.

"Good thing too. Because we could sure use a break." Huffed Flynn.

Arendelle was a kingdom of gentle colours. Its citizens were lively but not overwhelming, the infrastructures were widespread but still respected the boundaries of nature enough to leave plenty of space for its flora and fauna. The gorgeous fjord side sunrise reflecting off the ocean and the beautiful snowy mountains made for a breathtaking sight.

Arendelle was an ideal place for a relaxing retreat, to calm the mind and sooth the spirit... as long as you can actually enjoy it and not be cooped up in you room your whole life.

"That's why we're here." Aidan declared. "With all the good work we've done and gone through, I am authorising three days of rest and relaxation. No more worrying about the mission until then."

"I'm all up for that." Cheered Novak.

After the gruelling training followed by the titanic duel against the barbarian king, the one armed swordsman was only too eager to drop on a mattress and sleep the season away.

But others have different plans.

"Yeeeeesss! We're finally in Arendelle!" Amelia Squeeled. "Let's go exploring. I wanna see the towns, the forests, the mountains. Every cranny and nook!"

Wide awake with energy, the starry eyed Amelia jogged on the spot in uncontained excitement, beckoning her friends to keep pace with her.

The people of Arendelle chuckled. Their own spirits raised by the girl's infectious energy.

"Ooh. Look at those." Amelia pointed at the skies.

"They're just birds, Amy." Neoma flatly stated.

"But these are Arendellian birds" Chirped Amelia. "And look at this!"

"It's just a rock." Said Flynn, also flatly.

"But it's from Arendelle. Ooh I wonder if there are crystals inside!"

Amelia held the top half of the potato sized rock in one hand and POW! With the other hand she punched the bottom half clean off!

Hans grimaced. He definitely did not want to take a punch from Amelia.

"Did that even hurt her!?" Exclaimed Frederic.

Apparently not.

"Hmm. Just a rock." Huffed Amelia.

Not sparing another thought for the rock or the otherwise impressive feat she performed, Amelia resumed her exploration with great enthusiasm. She took in everything from sight, sound and smell of her homeland.

As the group entered town, the girl unabashedly fawned over every aspect of her home culture, dancing as she did. People were starting to stare.

"Ooh. That is such a nice dress. Is it the current trend in Arendelle?" Asked Amelia.

The young lady in question nodded nervously. It was a rather awkward position.

"Cool!"

"Pss, Blondie." Eugene whispered to his wife who sat a few seats away.

"Remember when we first came to Arendelle and I asked: 'Who's that ditz singing and dancing out the gates?' Well this girl reminds me of her."

Rapunzel wasted no time scrunching up a napkin and pelting her goofy grinning husband with it.

•••

The group of seven booked themselves at an inn. It was middle class but well maintained and certainly a respectable establishment at least.

Highly respectable now that it has been advertised.

"Wow. This suite is huge!" Exclaimed Eri.

"Of course. After two and a have weeks of camping on a dank rocky island, I figured we deserve to be pampered." Smiled Aidan.

Before them was a lavished living area of decent size, flanked by two bedrooms on either sides.

"You girls get the room on the right and we get the room on the left." Said Flynn.

"Yes!" Moaned Novak.

He wasted no time rushing into the guy's room and collapsing face first onto a bed.

"Well I want to go exploring." Chirped Amelia.

"Heh. Everybody unpack your things then go for your lives." Said Aidan.

The group did as they were told.

Meanwhile the background noise that was the everyday activities of the kingdom had fallen eerily silent.

Until.

"WOOOOH!" The city wide squeel of excitement shattered the silence.

"What's happening!? What was that!? Is the city on fire!?" Cried Amelia, bursting back into the living room with her Keyblade held like a fire axe.

"Relax Amy. Those were cheers of joy. Something great just happened." Eri laughed.

"Oh?"

"Why don't you go down to have a look, Amy. We'll catch up with you later." Neoma suggested.

"SWEET!"

"Let's put on something more comfortable first." Eri suggested, with a wave of her hand.

Ice magic engulfed Amelia and a moment later she was gowned in a white one-piece dress, complemented by a straw woven hat and simple footwear.

"Aw that dress suits her." Cooed Anna.

"Pss. What do you suppose happens to Amelia's previous clothes after Eri materialise new ones on her?" Varian whispers.

"Hmmm." Hans hummed. He too couldn't quite wrap his head around magic.

Kristoff sat straighter. The girl he ran into that day now stood before him again. This was the day, the very same day when-.

••• Moments Earlier •••

"ANNA GAVE BIRTH TO A BABY GIRL!" Kristoff cheered, throwing his arms in the air. His very short speech note went in the air also.

"WOOOOOH!"

The town square shook with the eruption of cheers. The vocal release of euphoria from the assembled people could be heard for many miles.

The present day citizens of Arendelle felt great joy in this retelling, it warmed their hearts to no end to relive this beautiful moment.

And none would relive it with greater joy than the proud father.

Kristoff descended from the podium into the arms of the cheering crowd. In droves the young prince consort was swamped by his adoring subjects.

"Oh my gosh, Kristoff. Congratulations!" Jenna the brewer squealed.

Hundreds more such welcoming congratulatory gestures were expressed.

People of all backgrounds took to dancing in the town square; Arendellians, visiting Northuldrans, even the trolls descended from the Valley of the Living Rock on this day of joy.

"Wow. Can't say I'm not jealous of Kristoff." Chuckled Anna. Oh the woe of being bed ridden after giving birth.

"Kristoff, my boy. My big big grown boy!" Bulda cried. "I'm so proud of you!"

"Wow. I'm so glad you all came." Kristoff choked.

Despite her tiny stature, Kristoff could not help but be crushed by his adopted mother's embrace.

"But how did all of you know that today would be the day?" Kristoff asked.

He looked around and curiously enough most of his family had arrived.

"Oh you know us, son. Magic." Laughed Bulda. "Your Grand Pabbie foresaw this. He even predicted that you and Anna will have a girl."

"Spot on as always, that Grand Pabbie." Laughed Kristoff.

"Well. Not exactly 'spot on.' He said this was 'A day of two princesses.' All of us thought you and Anna were expecting twin girls." Bulda rolled her eyes, yet smiled all the same. "Looks like old Pabbie is finally starting to slip."

"Two princesses?" Movie Kristoff chuckled.

"Two princesses." Present Kristoff gasped. "My gosh, did Grand Pabbie know all along!?"

•••

Far from the excitement happening in town, at the familiar log cabin shop of the Wandering Oaken's Trading Post And Sauna another Arendellian royalty was making purchases.

"Ah, these carrots will do nicely." Chirped Aidan, picking up the vegetables.

Meanwhile a teenage girl sat the shop desk glancing towards the direction of the town with mixture of annoyance and boredom in her eyes.

"Is it true that there is a party in town?" The girl asked with a thick accent.

"There sure is. Prince Kristoff just announced the birth of a baby princess." Aidan smiled, placing the goods on the counter.

"Urgh. And I'm stuck here shopkeeping." Groaned the girl. "That'll be forty, by the way."

"Forty copper pieces?" Aidan frantically searched his pockets. "Ten is all I got."

"Not my problem." The girl folded her arms.

'Damn. Maybe I was too hasty with renting at that nice inn.' Aidan thought.

"Hang on a sec."

"WHAT ARE YOU DOING!?" The girl exclaimed.

"Oh my." Gasped Anna.

Aidan removed his shirt, exposing his chiselled bare upper body.

"Nice." Laughed Melody.

Many teenage girls in the audience gasped, a few blew whistles at the screen.

Aidan held the article of clothing upside down and gave it a few shakes.

"Hm. Guess there's none in the shirt." Said Aidan. "Let's see then..."

The girl screamed some more and averted her eyes. Aidan began to remove his trousers!

Heavy footsteps echoed into the shop and a worried Oaken rushed in from the storeroom.

"Sweetie, what is happening? I heard you scream!" Oaken asked with urgency.

The girl did not answer her father, only covered her eyes and looked at anywhere but the customer. Oaken saw the teen boy waving his trousers.

"AAAH! HOW DARE YOU EXPOSE YOURSELF IN FRONT OF MY DAUGHTER!"

"Sweet. I found a GOLD piece!" The oblivious Aidan cheered.

Oaken was not interested. The large man grabbed the scandalous boy and hurled him out the door. Aidan hit the grass after flying an impressive thirty feet from the shop.

At first the town was silent, then everyone burst out laughing.

Kristoff stared wide eyed with his jaw almost hitting the table.

"Well. That escalated quickly." Laughed Rapunzel.

"I'd say that girl's day became a lot more exciting." Laughed Cassandra.

"Sorry, Oaken!" A giggling Anna waved at the large trader who sat a few tables away.

"I don't see what the problem is!" Aidan yelled. "You run a sauna, don't you!?"

The grumbling Aidan picked himself off the ground and pulled his trousers up. Not realising he had a spectator.

"Most fascinating." Spoke a deep and wisen voice.

Aidan spun on his heels. Not many could sneak up on him. Without his halberd and still without his shirt the boy scanned the forest for the source of the voice. There were just trees, a river, some troll shaped rock-.

"Wait a second..."

There was a troll behind the troll shaped rock!

"Great Grand Pabbie." Aidan gasped.

"So that's what you call me in your time." Grand Pabbie chuckled.

"It wasn't just a prediction. Grand Pabbie knew!" Gasped Elsa.

"He knew and he never told us!?" Exclaimed Anna.

"Aidan Bjorgman. I have monitored your activities." The ancient troll explained. "But this is the first time I have the pleasure to meet you face to face."

With pride in his eyes the ancient troll took in the image of the mighty Aidan and read into his soul.

"You are definitely your father's son, you carry his sincerity and his devotion to those he loves. Though I would say you are far more modest than shy little Kristoff."

"Ah. You know then. So you're with that Council of the Wise group." Aidan smirked, while buttoning up. "Guess I shouldn't be surprised. Even if you were not one of them, you always had a way of being all knowing."

Aidan knelt down and picked up the ancient troll.

"I've missed you, Great Grand Pabbie, you old bag of stones."

"Awwww."

"Is Grandma Bulda here? Does she know too?" Aidan set the ancient down.

"Unfortunately not, my boy. Your mission must remain a secret for now, and thus so must you." Grand Pabbie shook his head.

"Especially here. You know how vocal us troll folk can be." Grand Pabbie joked.

"Mmhmmrr argneree." A chorus of murmers of agreements circulated among Kristoff, Anna, Elsa and Olaf.

"Well, Great Grand Pabbie. I'm glad I can still talk to you at least." Said Aidan. "It's been a rough few weeks for us, my friends and I can sure use your wise council. And if you have any intel for our next destination, that will be great!"

"As a matter of fact I do have something for you, but that is for later. We are in the 'now' and you are here to relax, so let us set the mission aside for another day."

Grand Pabbie opened a nap sack and fished out a bunch of carrots for the surprised Aidan.

"These are Kristoff's favourite. I trust you have a similar taste." Smile Grand Pabbie.

Kristoff meanwhile watched wordlessly with a great smile on his face.

The two laughed and made their way back to town.

"What other foods does my dad like?"

"Ha. These kids will eat anything remotely edible." Laughed Anna.

Indeed.

•••

"WOOOH! THAT SMELLS SO GOOD! MMM! IT TASTES EVEN BETTER!""

With her nostrils flaring in bliss, Amelia rampaged through the shopping district, assailing the street food vendors and raising a cloud of dust behind her. She purchased food and cute trinkets left and right in her wild shopping spree.

A large crowd had gathered at the town square close to her location. There was dancing and music in the lively atmosphere, Amelia was determined to jump in, just as soon as she makes her final purchase.

"Here are your Himalayan salt, little huntress. Your catches should taste a lot better with these."

Amelia thanked the stall keeper and turned to make her way to the town square when without looking she bumped bodily into someone. The jar of salt she had bought went flying into the air!

With one arm around a full shopping bag, Amelia reached up to catch the jar with her free hand but it kept bouncing off her fingers. The man she had bumped into also made to catch the jar but it bounced off his hand too. Suddenly Amelia made what sounded like a battle whoop, as quick as a flash she dropped low, one knee bent, the other leg extended to the side, her free hand shot out and she caught the jar just before it hit the ground.

"Phew. That was close." Huffed Amelia.

A few witnesses gave a her a small cheer and an applause, even the man she bumped into offered a few claps.

"Nice catch." He praised.

"I'm sorry, I didn't see you there eh-."

Amelia froze, her eyes widened into saucers. The background noise was silenced, the colourful shopping district vanished, the world around her ceased to exist the instant Amelia had a good look at Kristoff. Her father!

The audience gasped.

Anna's mouth fell agape, Elsa's eyes widened, Rapunzel let out a silent squeal, Cassandra and Lady Caine smiled.

Kristoff sat straighter whilst Eugene, Hans, Varian and the Stabbington Brothers all grinned at him.

This was where it happened.

The town fell silent.

"Da-... P-Prince Kristoff." Amelia stuttered, she never stutters. Recomposing herself in record time Amelia dropped her bag of groceries, and the jar, she straightened her stance then nodded her head.

"Again with the salute." Groaned Elsa.

The prince consort for his part could only furrow his eyebrows at the strange girl who stood staring toward him and yet not quite at him.

Amelia kept her chin up, hands to her sides and feet together, she refused to move until she was addressed by the royal figure. She could sense that she was being examined.

'What's with the hold up? Did I muddle my salute.' Amelia thought, never realising that civilian girls typically do not salute.

'WAIT. DOES HE KNOW WHO I AM!?'

"Obviously not." Chuckled Olaf.

"Why hello there." Kristoff greeted, finally taking the initiative. "Have we met before? Are you from around here?"

Amelia relaxed. She looked down as if to consider her words before answering.

"Why yes...well yes and no, your highness. My family and I use to live in Arendelle when I was very little." Explained Amelia. "But we had to leave, for good. I haven't been able to visit until now, it's such a lovely kingdom."

She looked around at her estranged kingdom, taking in the beautiful scenery with awe in her eyes. She could not recall the place from her own memories, and yet the kingdom of Arendelle evoked a sense of familiarity that made her feel whole, filling an emptiness she never realised she had carried for so long.

Kristoff's breath froze in his throat, his heart raced upon reliving his meeting with the teenage Amelia.

There are those who believe that when family bonds are real and true they create a connection that can transcend rational explanation. Even breaking the barrier between time and space as was this case.

And so, even though it was imperceptible to the eye, Kristoff could somehow sense the hidden sadness in the girl's demeanour. And thought he could not understand why it is, the knowledge of the girl's sadness troubled him deeply. Kristoff's paternal heartstrings have been pulled.

"How about I give you a tour?" Kristoff asked.

The girl looked up, genuinely surprised by the offer.

"Really, but aren't you busy?" She asked.

"Part of a prince's royal duty is to promote his kingdom, and what better way to do that than to personally show his visitors around?" Kristoff declared. "So what do you say?"

"YES! I'd love love LOVE that!" Amelia chirped.

The audience watched the teenage girl beam at Kristoff with her wide starry eyes while bouncing on her feet. Amelia's smiles and laughs were always infectious and it warmed the audience's to see her mood light up as so.

Anna smiled proudly at her husband.

•••

Meanwhile in another busy part of town, Flynn and Wrenn stood before the statues of Agnarr and Iduna, the monument that symbolises the unity between Arendelle and Northuldra.

Rapunzel herself likewise admired the work of fine craftsmanship and what it represents. Like her auntie and uncle, Rapunzel had found love in the most unlikely way and in the face of all odds and obstacles she and Eugene had made it work.

Rapunzel had never known her auntie and uncle but she wished she did.

"Wow. Great Uncle Agnarr and Great Auntie Iduna when they were the same age as us." Said Flynn.

The Sun Princess squinted her eyes.

"Great Uncle Agnarr does kinda look like Aidan don't you think, Flynn?"

This question raised a few eyebrows. Anna and Elsa began to whisper to each other whilst Arianna and Willow voiced their agreements and disagreements.

"Aidan wears his hair and clothes in too unkempt and unruly a fashion. Plus he speaks too casually to be like our poised and well spoken brother." Said Arianna.

And on top of that...

"Nah. Aidan is way bigger and meaner. This guy looks like I can knock out with one hit."

This did not sit well with Wrenn.

"Is that seriously the first thing you think about whenever you see other boys your age!?"

"All men do it." Kristoff smirked while Anna rolled her eyes at him.

The Stabbington Brothers snickered.

Eugene snorted, he made no attempt to rebuke Kristoff's claim. Rapunzel looked none too pleased with her husband.

"Hey, you two." Neoma greated the twins.

Walking beside the Alchemist was the Snow Princess. Flynn and Wrenn noticed that Eri held a wreath of flowers in each hand.

"They are for my grandparents. I plan to visit their graves tomorrow, to pay my respects." Explained Eri.

"Flynn and I will join you." Said Wrenn. "And of course Aidan and Amy will be there too."

Eri smiled at her second cousin. She turned her gaze up at the statues, her eyes focussing on the stationary face of her grandfather. As a shape shifter, Eri could see details others could not see.

••• Flashback •••

A tiny Eri and a pint sized Amelia sat at a table, adjusting and tightening the strings on crossbows.

Arianna frowned. This was not an ideal activity for young ladies.

"Alright, it's my first day of training!" Little Aidan burst into the armoury shouting loudly.

PEW!

A distracted Amelia accidentally let loose a dummy bolt, hitting a target dummy in the head. She was not happy with her brother, but before Amelia could throttle Aidan, an aged Mattias stepped into the armoury.

The boy straightened and planted the pommel of his halberd onto the ice tiles, though with his small size it looked less like a halberd and more like a pike. Little Aidan kept his chin up and smiled confidently at the general and unknowingly at the screen.

Arianna gasped, Willow's eyes buldged, Mattias's mouth fell open. At that age, little Aidan was the spitting image of little Agnarr.

"Oh, wow."

Future Mattias could see it too.

"Uh, ahem." The general cleared his throat after taking a moment to recompose himself. "Prince Aidan, it is time."

Old Mattias gestured for Aidan to make for the exit. Then he bowed at the two girls.

"Princesses."

And with that, the prince and the general marched to the barracks.

••• End of Flashback •••

"Wow. I never would have thought." Gasped Arianna.

Anna came over and gleefully handed little Aidan to Arianna.

"Naww! Agnarr was also a goof ball when he was young." Chuckled Willow.

Taking the toddler and placing him on her lap, Arianna smiled and kiss her's and Willow's great nephew on the head.

•••

"Over here, we have Peter and his street roasts. One of our local favourites." Kristoff introduced.

"Oooh that smells soooo good." Amelia drooled. "I have got to treat my brother and friends to this place."

"Ah yes, give me fine palace dining or five star restaurants, but nothing makes my mouth water like Peter's steak sandwich." Kristoff salivate after taking a big whiff.

The prince consort continued to present his city to his guest, gladdened to see that that the teenage girl has remained estatic through the entirety of the tour.

"Ah, that jolly fellow over there is Oaken. He runs a large chain of trading posts throughout our kingdom." Kristoff gestured at the big man strolling with his family. "He's a really friendly guy, but don't try to upset him. Oaken can really throw a person, believe me I know."

While Kristoff laughed at the memory, Amelia gazed at the family. She took note of the way Oaken walked with his hands clasped over his daughter's shoulders in a protective manner, and all the while casting suspicious glances left and right.

'I wonder what has him so spooked?' Amelia's thoughts echoed.

Regardless, she continued to watch the display of physical contact between the father and daughter. Slowly Amelia glanced up at Kristoff, her own father.

The audience quietened, they all could see the curiosity in the girl's eyes. Curiosity that turned to longing.

Anna's heart sank. Her daughter wanted the same thing the other teenage girl has.

Amelia's fingers twitched, she hesitated, she felt unsure, Amelia rarely feels unsure. But slowly and eventually, Amelia let her hands rise up.

Anna held her breath. And then it happened.

Amelia circled her hands around Kristoff's arm. It was their first contact within Amelia's memory... not including the accidental bump in front of spice stall. Kristoff turned give her a questioning look, but Amelia simply smiled and tugged at the arm of her oblivious father.

"Show me more of Arendelle!"

For a brief moment, Kristoff simply stood and blinked at the strange girl. It was an awkward position for him, but ultimately Kristoff obliged. He would be glad that he did.

Indeed. Present day Kristoff could not stop himself from smiling in relief.

The rest of the afternoon was full of laughs and fun. The young teen had been REALLY interested in Arendelle, and almost forcefully dragged Kristoff around wherever they went.

Kristoff ran his hand over his arm, trying his best to remember the feeling of Amelia's hands. The way his not so little girl pulled him through the streets with astonishing strength. How Kristoff wished to experience it once more.

They continued to watch the sweet interaction between the father and daughter up to the moment when Amelia dropped her hair clip and Kristoff retrieved it for her.

All the while Amelia had a great time, her day was made. Thanks to her father. And the audience saw it too. People all over town were smiling proudly at Kristoff.

"Good on you, Kristoff." Willow gave a thumbs up.

Eugene and the Stabbington Brothers on either sides of Kristoff gleefully ruffled him up.

Edmund nodded approvingly at Kristoff, proud that the young man also made a good impression on the young heroes without realising it.

"Oh my gosh, Kristoff. That was so sweet!" Squealed Anna.

At last the sun was setting and it was time for them to part ways. Amelia loathed to say goodbye, but this was how it must be.

"You've given me more than just a tour, you have shown me my real home, and what's more..."

Slowly approaching Kristoff, Amelia clasped both of his hands in hers, Amelia's light brown eyes bore into Kristoff's light brown eyes.

"In the...past. I could only dream of having a chance to meet Kristoff Bjorgman. Now, for the first time in forever, I was finally able to chat and get to know him. Thank you. I will treasure this day, always."

Kristoff's breathing gave out a hitch. The weight of a fallen world came crashing down on him. As Kristoff relived this moment shared with Future Amelia, with the knowledge of what the girl had lived through and lived without. It was here and now that he understood what a grand act he had unknowingly performed for his child.

They say a good deed is its own reward, and while Kristoff had certainly felt proud of himself on that day. Seeing again how widely he made Amelia smile the way she did almost brought a tear to his eyes.

"I never did get your name."

The girl looked down in thought as if considering her response. At last she relaxed and faced him again. "My friends call me Amy." Amy finally proclaimed.

And so the pair parted ways. Kristoff watched Amy skip away until she was out of sight. It would be a month until Kristoff understood the full weight of that fateful encounter.

And what a weight it was. In that instant Kristoff felt a powerful force descend upon him, his body tightened around his chest threatening to crush the air out of him.

...It turns out, his wife was hugging him from behind. And she was going all out.

"Gah, Anna!? I didn't see you there." Choked Kristoff.

"Kristoff!" Squealed Anna. "I'm so proud of you!"

"But I... I could have.. I should have done more, so much more." Kristoff breathed. "Had I known, I would have given her the world, if she so asked for it."

"Oh, Kristoff. Amelia knew she couldn't let you know who she was because of her mission. Our daughter wanted a chance to meet you, but as a stranger, and you did not disappoint." Anna smiled. "You have shown her what a great man her father is!"

All around the table, Kristoff's friends agreed with Anna. They all praised him for the excellent first impression that Kristoff made of himself and his country. His daughter was well and truly overjoyed.

•••

Her day was about to get better.

Amelia skipped back towards the inn, all the while smiling from ear to ear. She did not even perceive the bulging haul of goodies that threatened to ooze from her backpack.

"Tch. I wish she had let me pay for all that." Kristoff chuckled.

The large mass would certainly hinder a grown man, but for this energetic spirited girl, Amelia may as well be carrying pillows. Some confused onlookers wondered if they should applaud her.

"I can't wait to tell the others I went shopping with daddy!" Amelia sang.

Bursting into the inn and rushing up the stairs, her heavy footfalls upsetting a few patrons.

"Ohh. Won't they be surprised?" Amelia chirped as she opened the door to their suite.

But little did Amelia know, that the surprise would be on her.

"Everyone! You won't believe-."

"SURPRISE!"

Amelia was greeted with a shower of colourful ribbons, crystal snow sparkles glittering against golden rays, and the cheer of her family and friends. She looked up to find Aidan, Eri, Flynn, Wrenn, Neoma and Novak beaming widely at her. A frozen Amelia blinked a few times, sure they were always happy to see her but this was extreme.

"Um, hi guys. What's the occasion?" Asked Amelia.

"...Amy, didn't you hear about the city wide announcement made by Uncle Kristoff?" Asked Eri.

"..." Amelia blinked.

"I believe he said, and I quote. 'Earlier this morning... Anna gave birth to a baby girl!'" Wrenn reminded.

Seeing that Amelia still stood with a puzzled look, Aidan finally decided to break the ice.

"That means it's your birthday, Amy!" Aidan laughed at his sister. "DUH!"

Amelia was by no means unintelligent, but she can be a little slow when her mind is in the clouds. The pieces fell into place and Amelia's mouth and eyes widened.

"Oh my gosh, it is my birthday!" Amelia squealed.

Large sweat drops appeared on the heads of the other six teens while the birthday girl laughed at her own major oversight.

"She's so cute." Giggled Rapunzel.

"It's astonishing how one so hardened after many battles can still be a bubbly child." Said Cassandra.

"Mmm." Everyone nodded in agreement. And glad for it.

"We also have a special guest to celebrate with us." Chirped Eri.

The Snow Princess took a step aside and revealed a figure of tiny stature but enormous importance to Amelia.

"Great Grand Pabbie!?"

"He knows all about us." Smiled Flynn.

The birthday girl gaped at the sight of the beloved family member present at her party.

"It is so good to finally meet you, Amelia Bjorgman." Grand Pabbie bowed.

And so the group of eight partied.

The audience watched with warming hearts as Amelia experience her first proper birthday celebration in over a decade.

Anna decided to remain sitting beside Kristoff, to share this special moment with her husband.

The teens and Grand Pabbie cruise through town. Amelia showing her family and friends all the exciting places her father showed her. They gorged themselves on mouth watering steak sandwiches, visited a photography studio to have their group photo taken.

There was even that one moment on the docks when a frolicking Amelia tripped and fell onto a boat teetering on the edge of the planks. A quick thinking Novak dove onto the stern of the little vessel, holding it and the girl in place.

Anna stole a glance at Hans and was just in time to catch him glancing at her.

The only difference with this scenario was that Novak wasn't nearly as heavy as a horse, and the two teenagers tumbled into the fjord.

Unperturbed, Amelia laughed and splashed water at her almost rescuer. Strapping a paddle to his jig, Novak playfully splashed back.

He won't be playful for long.

•••

"Oh no!"

A dried up Novak frantically patted down his new clothes. Behind him stood Amelia similarly dried and changed. The girl watched him as he turned every pocket inside until he fortunately found the item he sort.

"Phew. Still here, I was worried it was disintegrated along with the old clothes when Eri changed us."

"Huh?" Amelia blinked. Trying to peep over Novak's shoulder to see what it was.

"For you, Amy." Said Novak, turning around. "Happy Birthday."

The boy presented the girl with a thin length of white fabric: a hair bow, and at the end of the hair bow was an embroidering of a cute smily face bearing familiar features.

"Aww. Is that me?" Asked Amelia.

"Yup." Was Novak's nervous answer.

Despite his show of kindness, the boy appeared embarrassed about the gift. Novak was involuntarily fidgeting until finally his attenpt of a brave face caved.

"...GAH! I'm sorry. What a crappy little thing to give to someone on their birthday!" Cried Novak.

"It's not 'crappy!' I think it's cute, I love the design. Thank you, Novak." Amelia replied.

"You really like it?" A sigh of relief. "That's great! I did my very best to match your likeness with my chibi character style when I-."

"Wait. You stitched this yourself!?" Amelia gasped. "And you did it with one hand!?"

"Well. I did use the tongs attachment to hold the ribbon in place... so one and a half hands." Joked Novak.

"That's so sweet." Said Rapunzel, thoroughly impressed.

"I am surprised that Novak knows how to sew." Said Varian.

"Well. He does come from a brutal time, and you know what they say; Emergencies teach a naked person to weave." Said Cassandra.

"There is still plenty of room on the bow." Novak offered. "Whatever you wish, whatever you like. I'll stitch it on for you."

"Thank you, Novak." Amelia smiled, tying her gift onto the end of her ponytail. "I love it."

It was one of many simple and inexpensive gifts, yet the amount of devotion and love Amelia's friends had poured in for her made many a princess envious.

"Making today the perfect day for you." Elsa whispered into Anna's ear.

Anna giggled at the memory. When even after all the material goods she received, the thing she loved the most was taking care of Elsa.

•••

At the palace courtyard where upon the gates have been declared opened for good, the citizens of Arendelle gather again this time to be the first to catch a glimpse of the new princess.

Anna was still tired and very weak but she would not absent herself completely from the festivities and nor would she keep the beautiful bundle from the people. And so from the balcony of her bed chamber did a seated Anna greet her subjects, and standing beside her was Kristoff holding little Amelia for all to see.

The crowd erupted into cheers and applause, it was a day of joy indeed.

Elsa stood vigilantly at the other side of Anna, wary of any signs of discomfort her younger sister might display. Meanwhile little Aidan and Olaf were also present.

It was a picturesque family.

"Aww. Baby Amy is soo cute!" Cooed Wrenn.

"Yes I am." Laughed Amelia. "And look at tiny Aidan."

A giggling Arianna rubbed her cheek against little Aidan's hair.

The Heroic Seven stood amongst the crowd to watch with joy in their hearts.

"Wow. So that must be Olaf, my mother's first autonomous ice construct." Gasped Eri. "And that's her. Bless her heart, It is really really her."

The girl of ice gazed up at the queen of Northuldra; her conjuror, her creator, and more. For here and now did Eri at last look upon her mother. There was an unspoken bond, a connection that Eri had always felt whenever she was around Anna and Rapunzel, the two women who raised her. But Elsa's presence exuded a feeling of strength that Eri never realised she had lived without.

"Mom." Eri whispered.

"Eri." Elsa replied.

Neoma had heard Eri's whisper, and her heart ached to hear the strain in her friend's voice. An idea hatched in Neoma's mind, the one-armed alchemist tilted her black fedora hat.

"I think I might have met Neoma that night." Gasped Elsa.

"Ah. So this is dad." Aidan smiled. "Seems like a friendly guy."

"He is." Chirped Amelia. "Dad is the nicest person ever. I love him!"

Kristoff caught his wife beaming at him. "Told ya!" He could make out the words mouthed at him.

Aidan blew a whistle.

"Wow. This mom looks as old and run down as our mom. You did a real number on her, Amy." Aidan laughed.

"You were a lot worse, Aidan! Your head was much denser than your sister's." Anna shook her fist. "I had wondered if you were a coconut or a baby."

"The people really shouldn't be cheering and clapping so loudly." Said Wrenn.

The most nurturing member of the team watched with concern for the newborn girl.

"Meh. She'll be fine. It's Amy, remember?" Flynn dismissed.

Indeed the baby neither woke or cried, merely nuzzled closer to her father.

Grand Pabbie who stood amongst The Seven watched with paternal pride welling in his heart at the sight of the young family. He will have a much better view soon enough.

"GRAND PABBIE! THERE YOU ARE!" Kristoff yelled unceremoniously. "What are you doing down there? Come up and meet your great granddaughter!"

Heads turned and very quickly the crowd parted to welcomely make way for the moss covered ancient.

"Ah, It appears that this is my cue." Grand Pabbie chuckled. "Excuse me, young heroes."

With a polite bow to the seven teens, Grand Pabbie excused himself to make his way to where an ice stairway was erected to bring him up to the balcony.

"Kristoff, my dear boy. And Anna. A great congratulations to the both of you!"

"Thank you, Grand Pabbie. We're so glad that you can make it." Anna rasped.

"It would honour us, Grand Pabbie. If you would gift Amelia with a blessing. You know, the magical kind." Kristoff grinned.

"Still with the fairy-tale tropes I see." Chuckled Hans.

"Was this your idea, Anna?" Asked Elsa.

"Nope. This idea was all mine." Kristoff answered.

"Ah. Very well. Let me see..." Grand Pabbie agreed.

Examining the sweet little bundle, Grand Pabbie's heart melted at once.

"I do not believe there is any need to bless Amelia with beauty, I already know that she will grow up with plenty of it. Hmm perhaps the gift of song, I fear she will develop a screechy voice otherwise."

"HEY!" Somebody screeched.

After a brief chuckle, Grand Pabbie drew a deep breath to contemplate the perfect gift. What sort of future will this child grow up to? What struggles will hinder Little Amelia, and what gift can he offer to spirit her through these trials?

"Ah, I know. Little Amelia shall be blessed with the gift of Inner Fortitude." Grand Pabbie announced. "To always have the innate strength to hold value and confidence within one's self. "

A good gift.

"Kristoff, Anna and Elsa. Personal image, reputation and name are a staple part of a monarch's duty, it is an unspoken burden that all prince and princesses carry, to be compared to their predecessor."

Grand Pabbie glanced at little Aidan and then back at little Amelia before finally addressing the parent group again.

"The feats that these little ones will be compared to will be Brobdingnagian."

"Sounds big." Said Kristoff.

Grand Pabbie narrowed his eyes.

"It is. The three of you, you must be fair and understanding with your children. Push them towards greatness, but be accepting of where they land."

The wise troll imparted this piece of wisdom.

Anna and Kristoff nodded in agreement. Elsa agreed also, though she was curious as to why Grand Pabbie included her.

Now she knows.

•••

With Anna retired for a well deserved sleep, and Kristoff retiring for the night to watch over his wife and children, it now fell on Elsa to mingle with the crowd. Grand Pabbie, Olaf and Kai were there too.

For Elsa, socialising has always been a challenge for her, mingling was more of Anna's specialty. But ever a dutiful person, Elsa sucked it up and interacted with the townsfolk, it also helps that she was familiar with most people... most.

"Good evening, Your Majesty."

A young teenage girl with raven black hair approached the Snow Queen, Elsa saw that she had a kind expression and a slight nervousness in her wide grey eye.

Sensing that she is being examined, the girl quickly composed herself, she stomped out her nervousness and forced a staunch salute.

"Oh. Hello there." Elsa uttered, the salute caught her off guard.

Neoma dropped her salute but kept a straight and attentive stance before the monarch. Here and now she stood before a figure of legend in her time, someone who has earned and rightly deserves her full respect.

"It is an honour to meet you, Queen Elsa. I have heard many great things about you." Said Neoma.

"Must they all be so uptight when addressing royalties?" Asked Eric.

Ariel agreed, thinking back on her first encounter with Wrenn and Eri.

Strange though the girl was, Elsa was not the kind to dismiss those who are unusual. Through her own personal experience Elsa had learnt to read when someone is nervous or is concealing themselves. It was something that the Snow Queen sympathised with.

"The honour is all mine." Smiled Elsa.

And so, drawing on the welcoming nature of her sister that had rubbed off on her over the years, Elsa took the initiative to engage in conversation with the stranger.

The two connected quickly, in no time, all formalities were dropped and the pair laughed and chatted like it was the most natural thing.

"It's nice to watch Neoma interact with Elsa. But I really believe that Eri should be the one up there talking with her mother." Said Eugene.

Varian and Kristoff raised an amused eyebrow at Eugene.

Anna cast a glanced at Cassandra. The raven haired warrior made a knowing smile back at the queen.

"I have a gift for you." Said Elsa. "Please hold out your hands for me."

Neoma did as she was asked. Movements shuffled underneath her cape and a second later, Neoma held out both hands for Elsa.

"Wait. Neoma doesn't have two of those!" Exclaimed Eugene.

Rapunzel narrowed her eyes at her husband.

"Eugene. That's Eri."

"...Oh." Eugene gaped, did everyone know except him.

Evidently so.

The whole time. Elsa sat with her hands clasped over her chest and euphoric joy in her sparkling eyes.

Everyone turned their heads to smile at Elsa, their hearts soared to see her expression.

The same feeling of happiness for a friend was shared by the members of the Heroic Seven. Amelia, Aidan, Flynn, Wrenn, Novak and the real Neoma stood together, happily watching Eri converse with her mother.

"Wow. That was a great idea with that fedora hat. Good thinking Neoma." Praised Wrenn.

"Heh. She wanted to talk to Queen Elsa so badly, I knew I had to offer this idea." Neoma shrugged. "I remembered back in Old Corona, I was sad that I didn't walk down to speak to my parents. But I always considered myself fortunate. Because I at least I did have my parents in my life, they are still in my memories."

Neoma took hold of her metal hand and pressed it against her inactive moonstone as she thought of her parents.

Novak smiled softly. He was with her that day and was in the same position with his family.

The group then turn back to the conversing mother and daughter, using their imagination they pictured Elsa speaking to Eri in her base form.

Much to the delight of the audience, the mental image was projected onto the screen.

This great moment will live with Elsa for the rest of her life.

"Well... It looks like Eri is finally able to make some memories with Aunt Elsa. Thanks to you." Praised Aidan.

The boy in his usual invasive manner looped an arm around Neoma's shoulder. As per usual, an embarrassed Neoma tried to pry his hand off her. The pair continued to struggle until-.

"Aidan? I'm really sorry." Said Amelia.

Everyone paused. Her sudden apology was in a tone of sadness.

"I'm sorry you didn't get to meet dad today."

"...Oh." Aidan blinked. His expression fell slightly.

Neoma still with Aidan's arm around her could feel the strength deflate from the boy. She looked up at him with worry in her eyes.

"Nah, don't sweat it, sis. I was old enough when it happened, so I still have some foggy memories of dad. Besides, the mission will succeed and then we will have as much of him as we like." Aidan's energy bounced back.

Ever the optimistic leader, Aidan always brought strength to the team.

His words also brought assurance to the parent group. They will eventually meet.

Neoma clasped her hand over Aidan's once again, but not with the intention of removing it from her shoulder. Neoma instead held the hand in place, she even stepped closer and lightly leaned into Aidan, surprising the boy.

"One hour. You get this for one hour."

"I can hold you for a whole hour!?" Exclaimed Aidan. Eyes sparkling, mouth grinning.

Neoma let out a hitch, perhaps she was a little too hasty. Oh well, too late to go back on her word now.

"Umm. Yeeaah."

Varian slammed his head on the table.

•••

Later that night Elsa treated the kingdom to one final performance of visual marvel, a sky show. It began with raising a great haze of icy mist that blanketed the city.

Using her magic, the Snow Queen focussed the mists into concentrated forms and the result were thousands of snow clouds floating above and throughout the city, each of them weaved into the shapes of Elsa's choosing. A faint soft glow lit the core of every cloud making a truly dazzling yet calming sight to behold.

The audience were as awestruck as the people in the screen were.

There were clouds shaped as, ducklings, flowers, stars and everything Elsa could imagine. Children laughed and tried to catch the clouds within reach.

"Wow. That's every bit as beautiful as our lantern sky show." Sighed Rapunzel.

"And cheaper to make." Added Cassandra.

"I bet the clean-up is easier too." Joked Eugene.

The group of seven sat themselves on a grassy hill at the park to watch the dazzling spectacle.

One such shaped cloud drifted towards Eri. Back in her original form, The Snow Princess let the chibi unicorn rest its nose on her fingers, her own magic holding the cloud in shape and preventing the unicorn from dispersing at her touch. With a flick of her wrist Eri sent the unicorn up into the sky to join the others.

"That hat looks perfect on you, Eri. But how did Aunt Elsa know that white is your colour?" Amelia asked, taking note of her cousin's new accessory.

"I'm not sure myself." Replied Eri, raising her white fedora. "Mother merely said that my aura was soft and gentle as snow."

"That's impressive intuition, she saw right through your character even though you were posing as Neoma." Said Wrenn pointing her thumb at the aforementioned alchemist. "Staunch and unyielding as Black Rocks."

"If Neoma's a rock then Aidan is like an octopus hoarding his rock." Eri giggled. "Just look at him with his tentacle around her."

Varian groaned. He was shown Neoma sitting with Aidan, the boy still had his arm around her shoulder!

Cassandra let out a chuckle. In contrast to her husband she has found herself enjoying the interaction between her daughter and Anna's son. It reminded her of Varian and herself.

"She digs him. Look." Rapunzel pointed.

It was subtle, but Neoma had gently rested her head on Aidan's shoulder. It was a strange experience for the mighty Black Rock Alchemist to lean on anyone, especially someone less powerful than her. And yet Neoma found that she felt strangely protected under Aidan's arm, he makes her feel safe.

Aidan must have noticed because his huge goofy grin had spread even wider.

"YEAH BOI!" Cheered Anna.

In his celebratory mood, Kristoff poured himself a drink.

"They're still at it huh? I could swear it's been over an hour now." Said Amelia.

"They'll be fine." Flynn dismissed. "Novak is watching them like a hawk, he won't let anything happen to his older sister figure."

But sadly on the contrary, said Novak was barely awake. With half closed eyelids he bobbed his head and groaned his response.

"Is Novak alright?" Amelia whispered to Eri and Wrenn.

The question made the two girls giggle.

••• Flashback •••

"Amy has left the building. Now is our chance. Everyone get ready for the surprise!" Aidan ordered.

Back at the inn, the remaining six teenagers scrambled about the suite to prepare for the birthday girl's party. Plans were drawn, shopping lists were compiled and roles were assigned. Bar one.

"Someone wake up Novak!" Cried Neoma.

"Nah, let him sleep. Novak has earned his leave of absence." Said Aidan.

"That's true. But I know he won't want to miss this." Eri laughed.

Without a backwards glance, Eri pranced into the boy's bedroom. Wrenn followed in with similar glee.

"Wake up Novak." Eri encouraged.

"Come on, Novak. We have work to do." Chirped Wrenn.

Both girls gently shook him, but despite their combined efforts Novak seemed dead set on lying face down on the mattress.

"Sure reminds me of someone." Wrenn grumbled.

Thankfully, Eri had an idea. Sitting herself on the edge of the bed, she leaned over Novak, her lips inched over his ear and she whispered:

"It's Amy's birthday."

It was only three words, but the response was instantaneous. Novak's eyelids flew open!

The boots were on, the jig was strapped, a wooden hand with a raised index finger was thrust towards the direction of town.

"LET'S GO!"

••• End of Flashback •••

"Did he really spring out of bed just for me?" Amelia gasped. In her perspective, that was considered an incredible feat.

"Mhm. And more." Eri confirmed. "We never told Novak about your birthday before because of training and that fight. So he literally just found out this afternoon."

"No time for planning, He went for the first gift that came to mind and stuck with it." Said Wrenn.

"He didn't have the money to buy anything fancy since...you know." Said Eri. "So I offered to materialise the embroidings on the bow for him to give to you, but he insisted on stitching it himself. One hand and all."

Amelia brought her ponytail around. Holding her new bow she ran her fingers over the little smiling face stitching as Wrenn and Eri explained.

Anna smiled, liking what she was hearing.

Kristoff poured himself another drink. A stronger one this time, and he wasn't drinking it in a celebratory mood.

His eyelids were heavy, but Novak soldiered on, sitting with his back straight he forced himself to stay awake. He could not let himself appear tired in front of Amy on her birthday.

"Are you tired, Novak?" Amelia voice came from behind.

Damn!

"Just relax."

With a giggle, Amelia placed her hands on Novak's shoulders and gently pulled him back. Groggy as he was, Novak did not know what was happening but if Amelia was guiding him then he wasn't going to resist. And so, obeying, he leaned back until-.

CLONK!

'Ouch! Did Amy lay a pair of LOGS for me to rest my head on!?' Novak thought.

He reach up to adjust the strange idea of a pillow. But instead of the abrasive texture of wood Novak felt his fingers brush against something else entirely. It was indeed hard, but also smooth and strangely pleasant to touch, it even came with a cute giggle.

'Wait. These aren't logs!'

Novak's eyes shot open, looking up he saw Amelia's face hovering above, smiling down at him. He was resting his head on Amelia's lap, and he was touching her leg!

"YEAH BOI!" The Stabbington Brothers cheered.

"She's suppose to help him relax, not get him excited!" Laughed Eugene.

"GHLUGHARGU!"

He was shocked but out of need to maintain good table etiquettes Kristoff clamped his mouth shut, refusing to spit out his drink. What ended up happening was more unsightly.

The alcoholic beverage erupted in frothing bubbles out from Kristoff's nose and the corners of his mouth.

Novak jerked his hand away from Amelia's leg.

"I'm sorry!" He apologised.

"Are you comfortable?" Amelia flashed her sweet smile at him.

"Umm-... absolutely." Novak's face was bright red.

Anna let out a giggle. She loved their interactions.

"Anna. I really don't think we should be encouraging this." Kristoff admonished. He was wiping his face with a napkin.

"Aww. But it's just so cute."

Nearby, another father was watching the scene with similar anxiety building up.

'Of all the girls in the world it had to be Anna's daughter. And in Arendelle of all places.' Hans mentally groaned.

"Are you having a good time, Amy?" Asked Novak.

"Are you kidding? This is the best birthday I've ever had!"

Amelia was genuinely over the moon, and that made Novak smile.

"So. When you met your dad, what did you two talk about?"

Amelia smiled. There were many memorable conversations, but one in particular she held close to her heart.

••• Flashback •••

"Wow, so these two are really King Agnarr and Queen Iduna?" Asked Amelia.

"That's right. They would have been your age when they first met one another." Smiled Kristoff.

The audience were brought back to the interactions between Amelia and Kristoff again, this time at the familiar site of the statues of Agnarr and Iduna.

"Uh oh." Kristoff gulped.

"I haven't told anyone else about this." Kristoff let out a sigh. "But I have often wondered if the former king and queen would have disapproved of me. If Anna's parents were still here, would they think me unworthy of their daughter?"

Anna turned to stare at her husband, in fact everyone did too.

"Why would you ever think that!?"

Amelia spun at Kristoff. Clearly she too was blown away by the shocking confession.

"Well. I grew up on the mountains and uh raised by trolls, if you can believe that." Kristoff laughed. "I had no experience living in high society, I barely fit in regular society. I hate silk pants, fancy shoes and regal jackets. I don't like formal dinners, and ballroom dancing feels like torture."

Kristoff mindlessly continued his rant, not realising such an act was in itself an unprincely conduct.

Kristoff shrank in light of his confessions now made public.

"But you do love Anna, right?" Asked Amelia.

"Yes, absolutely." Said Kristoff. He answered without hesitation.

The prince consort calmed his breathing.

"I love Anna more than I dread all of those things." Kristoff smiled. "And so. I have gladly dedicated myself to face down all that I struggled with, and work to be a good prince for Anna and for Arendelle."

"Oh Kristoff, you." Anna cooed. She snuggled into Kristoff.

"Wow. You pretty much just explained what makes a good prince." Amelia placed her hands on her hips.

All around them the crowd applauded the man. The citizens of Arendelle looked to their prince consort with greater admiration and respect.

"Indeed you have proven yourself well, young Kristoff." Praised Frederic.

Many a royalty in the audience sympathised with Kristoff. He was far from alone in his disdain for life as a royal. It was more common than one might think, but like Kristoff himself they too endure it out of duty.

"Your fears are unfounded, Kristoff. Iduna and my brother would welcome you with opened arms." Said Arianna.

"You have risked your life for Anna on more than one occasion. I have no doubt that mother and father would have happily accepted you." Said Elsa.

A great weight was lifted from Kristoff's shoulders. It was clear that he would have no issues with in-laws...

Or will he now?

"You know. Now that you've raised the subject... I might have a similar concern."

Amelia clasped her hands together as she gazed at the statue of the young couple. Then turned around to face the prince again. With her hands behind her back, she tilt her head and beamed at her unwitting father.

"There is a boy who I have been travelling with. A boy my parents may not approve of."

"Oh no." Kristoff gasped, remembering this conversation.

"I've liked him since I first met him. It started out as an attraction stemmed from curiosity and... me being a bit of a rebel."

Her expression fell and she took a more serious tone. Slowly Amelia raised her eyes back at her father, and Kristoff could see a great inner conflict troubling the otherwise cheerful girl.

"Lately my fondness for him has grown, more than I imagined it would. I have never felt this way towards any other boy. It's empowering yet terrifying."

Amelia drew a long deep breath before finally admitting:

"I think... I love him."

It's official.

"OH MY GOSH! I knew it!" Squealed Anna.

Lady Caine chuckled.

The colour drained from Hans's face.

Kristoff turned slightly blue.

The reaction of the crowd was wild, like a glitter bomb just went off. People cheered.

"But I do still care what my parents think. And the more my feelings grow, the more I worry."

Amelia took a step towards Kristoff, her eyes pleading.

"Please, Prince Kristoff. Tell me your thoughts. I want to know your opinion. I need you to tell me if you would approve."

"Me?" Kristoff gaped.

This was a strange and sudden request.

"...Well. I'm no love expert... quite a disaster, really. But sure, tell me about this boy you like." Kristoff offered.

Hearing that Kristoff agreed to hear her out, Amelia's cheerful mood returned.

The audience watched as Amelia performed a dramatic twirl on the spot. She clasped her hands together and stared dreamily at the clouds while she described Novak to her father.

"He's kind hearted, he's very sweet, extremely loyal to those he loves, brave, strong, dedicated and unwavering in the face of adversity."

The list went on.

"Oh, she's got it bad." Giggled Ariel.

Kristoff groaned nervously.

"You didn't show any reservations at the time." Anna giggled.

No he certainly didn't.

"Sounds like a real winner. I don't see what your parents would find reprehensible about him." Kristoff cocked his eyebrow.

"Well. We might have a slight family feud." Amelia answered nervously, looking down and poking the footpath with her shoe. "His father did something bad... tried to do something bad."

" Okay. But the boy himself had nothing to do with it, right?" Asked Kristoff.

"No." Amelia shook her head. "He wasn't even born yet."

"Then that's not his problem or yours!"

Kristoff pointed his thumb at the statues, a symbol of unity between Arendelle and Northuldra.

"King Agnarr's father did some uh, questionable things... actually, questionable would be putting it lightly. Anyway, what I'm trying to get across is that Agnarr had nothing to do with it, and neither do Anna, Elsa, Aidan or Amelia. And I for one would not stand for it if anyone tried to lay the blame on any of them for that." Kristoff declared. "So don't let past events get in your way. I can't speak for your parents, but I know I approve of this boy you love."

Kristoff saw that his declaration had left the girl gaping. He smiled.

"At the end, if you two still have trouble with your parents, please do not hesitate to bring your case to me. You have the Prince Consort of Arendelle's support."

Amelia remained speechless. It took a moment before it finally set in, but when it did...

"EEEEEEEEEEEEE!"

Amelia was bouncing on her toes.

"Well. If Kristoff Bjorgman approves then I'm sure Amelia's father approves!" Laughed Rapunzel.

"What have I done?" Croaked Kristoff.

"No backsies, Kristoff." Anna teased. "The prince's word is inviolate."

"Hey hey hey! That wasn't fair. She didn't say the disapproving parent was me!"

"Ah. But that's what makes it so unbiased." Anna laughed.

"Fine." Kristoff conceded. "But you should know, Anna. It all amounts to nothing if Novak doesn't return her feelings."

Anna gave her husband a befuddled look.

"Are you serious?"

••• End of Flashback •••

The pair in question remained on the grass with Novak still resting his head on Amelia's lap. The plethora of glowing snow clouds floating around the park made for a romantic scene, made more so given that there was a curiously large ratio of heart shaped clouds in the area.

"Huh? Why are there so many hearts?" Asked Kristoff.

The screen zoomed out just in time to catch Eri casting a heart cloud. The girl blew it towards the couple then quickly looked the other way to pretend she didn't do it.

"Gah. ERI!"

Eri made another one and this time blew it towards Aidan and Neoma. Wrenn and Flynn who sat with Eri both struggled to stifle their giggles.

Novak was trying his very best not to look at the clouds or at Amelia, he made to take interest instead at the buildings. But try as he might, Novak could not help but steal a glance at Amelia every so often and each time he would be met by the girl's sweet smile.

For the umpteenth time Novak broke eye contact from Amelia, turning his head back towards the buildings.

Amelia on the other hand never took her gaze from Novak.

As Hans watched on, his expression softened. The way Anna's daughter looked at his son, it wasn't like some feather brained impulse desire or obsession spurred by opportunity and desperation. No, it wasn't at all like how Anna looked at him back in the day. There was genuine respect, admiration and appreciation for Novak in Amelia's eyes.

Hans snuck a glance at Anna, his face immediately fell upon being reminded of what he had done. Hans turned back to the screen.

"Do the right thing, boy." Hans urged.

"Thank you again for the bow, Novak. It really means a lot to me."

Novak finally turned his head to face Amelia.

"Amy, you gifted me your sword. When I had hit rock bottom you helped me regain my confidence. I only wish I could give you more than a cheap hair bow."

Amelia shook her head.

"It was very sweet. This bow has embroidering stitched by you. That makes it one of a kind, no one else will have it but me."

Amelia brought her ponytail to her front again, she held her new hair bow close to her chest cherishingly.

"As for that sword? Giving it to you was its own reward. Watching you recover filled my heart with joy. You became stronger, it protected you, it brought you victory."

Amelia placed a hand on Novak's shoulder.

"It brought you back to me." She whispered.

"Amy." Gasped Novak.

They have travelled together for five months now and to some extent have learnt to read one another. Novak searched Amelia's expression and knew that this wasn't just her usual friendly and perky nature speaking to him. There was more, there was what shouldn't be. Love.

"Amy, we cannot. I am not right for you."

That hurt. It hurt Novak to say and it hurt Amelia to hear it. Coming to this place had been a bitter reminder for Novak that Amelia was in the end, the princess of Arendelle. He knew they can never be.

But Amelia was not so easily dissuaded.

"Only I can decide who is right. My heart was won through words and deeds. Yours."

He can forget about sleep now. A thousand and one thoughts ran through Novak's head. That was not the only thing keeping him up, for Amelia always had the innate ability to empower him with energy and confidence. With her, Novak can feel like he can accomplish anything.

"Alright, Amy." Novak smiled. "I have one more gift for you."

Anna gasped. Novak took Amelia's hand and placed it over his heart.

"Come what may, this also belongs to you and you alone."

Amelia squeeled in delight. The two remained where they were, appreciating each other's company.

"Wooh! He likes her back!" Anna whooped.

Kristoff slumped down.

Another round of city wide cheers.

"WOOH!"

"Now this. This I can believe is true love." Elsa laughed.

"Pss, Blondie." Eugene whispered to his wife. "We could make a massive boom in tourism if Lance produced a romance drama about these two star-crossed lovers."

"Eugene!" Exclaimed Rapunzel. "There is nothing star-crossed about them."

"She's right, Eugene. We won't make much money from it." Said Cassandra, completely missing the point of Rapunzel's protest.

"Forbidden love dramas are not gripping if the odds are not stacked against the lovers." Cassandra explained. "Though I'm sure Arendelle's military is proficient, the fact remains. Even if Kristoff placed a hundred guards between Amelia and Novak, the couple would simply dance into the sunset leaving behind a hundred crumpled guards."

"I'd pay to see that!" Sideburns offered, getting excited.

"Blah!" Eugene wretched. "Well then I guess a drama about Neoma and Aidan wouldn't work either."

"Oh yeah?" Varian challenged. "Let's see them get pass twenty containment automatons, backed by a fleet of airships stocked with payloads of sticky goo and sleeping gas, lead by me personally flying my Megablimp."

Cassandra narrowed her eyes, her husband was getting insane in his creativity again.

"But just how will you keep them apart though? You should know there is no wall or tower in the world that can hold Neoma." Cassandra asked.

"Then we utilise unworldly means. I shall rebuild the Demanitus portal and bind Neoma to that realm until her attraction subsides."

Alright, now he might as well be foaming at the mouth! Cassandra raised her hand and swatted her husband into submission.

"I'm hiring Varian." Said Kristoff. Earning him a swat from Anna.

"Good ol Varian. Now we have a selling drama." Eugene chuckled. Finally he too took a swat from Rapunzel.

Wrenn and Eri quietly giggled at the pair, Flynn grinned then returned his gaze to the clouds.

Aidan looked sightly worried and prepared himself to intervene, but a quick thinking Neoma pulled him back down. She even went so far as to lay her own head on Aidan's lap!

Varian let out a yelp.

Needless to say, Aidan was immediately pacified. Neoma rolled onto her side refusing to let Aidan see her bright red face.

'Novak and Amy. You two owe me big time!'

"Now now Neoma. Don't pretend you're not benefiting from this." Laughed Cassandra.

"Urgh." A chastised Varian groaned.

•••

"Well that episode had a pleasant change." Said Elsa. "I'm glad the children didn't get into any fights."

Now that, everyone can agree on.

"That didn't make it any less confronting to watch." Varian complained.

"Yeah. And speaking of confronting." Hans muttered. He caught sight of Kristoff stomping towards him, the big man had a stern look on his face.

"Hans. You, Caine, Anna and I have a serious matter to discuss!"

"I'll say." Anna appeared from behind her husband. "Where shall we host the venue? The park hilltop or the palace hall?"

"Yeah-. Wait, Anna. What venue?" Asked Kristoff.

"For when Amelia and Novak get married. DUH!" Anna chirped.

"EEEK! NO ANNA, NOT THAT!" Cried Kristoff.

Lady Caine clutched her stomach and let out a throaty laugh, Cassandra chuckled, Rapunzel whooped in agreement to Anna.

Hans raised his hand to cover his face.

"Trust Anna to jump straight to that." Elsa giggled.

"Alright. Kristoff, Anna, look." Hans decided to take the initiative. "I get that you are uneasy and I don't blame you for it. All I can promise is that I will give Novak a good talking to once we meet. And heaven forbid, but if he does mistreat your daughter in any way, I'll be the first give him a good smacking."

"You've always been too soft on him. Better let me do it, I'll give the boy a proper thumping." Lady Caine cracked her knuckles.

"There is no need for that." Kristoff brokered for calm, defusing the violent thoughts. "I'm not blind to Novak's nature. I know your son will be good towards Amy. I'm just concerned, because I think the kids are all too young for this."

Everyone within earshot stared bug eyed at Kristoff, they weren't expecting Kristoff to come to Novak's defence. For a moment The mountain man kept a stoic expression, until...

"AWW, NO! I just met my daughter, I'm not ready to see her run off with a boy!" Whined Kristoff.

"A group of teenagers travelling together unsupervised, getting into physically and emotionally straining situations. It takes just one hormonal spike to-."

"Kristoff Bjorgman. You get your head out of the gutter this instant!" Cried Anna.

"Anna, I'm serious. The kids are all at that very curious and exploratory stage of their lives. We've seen them often ignore boundaries and engaging freely in improper physical contact." Cried Kristoff.

"I'm glad you feel so strongly about improper physical contacts, Kristoff!" Varian stomped over with steam blowing out of his nostrils.

Hans stepped aside, Kristoff shrank. He remembered the unanticipated clobbering Eugene received. Kristoff wasn't keen on that.

"You, me, Cassandra, and Anna have a serious matter to discuss!"

"Park Hilltop or palace hall?" Chirped Anna.

"Not helping, Anna." Muttered Kristoff.

Hans chuckled while he watched.

Anna hasn't changed a bit.

••• End of Chapter •••

I hope you enjoyed that. Please tell me what you think.

••• Author Notes •••

In my research I learnt there were two deleted scenes from Frozen 2: One was a song in which Kristoff expressed how he tries to "Get This Right" for Anna. And another when riding Nokk, Kristoff is forced to confess how he actually dislikes palace life.

It was unfortunate that those scenes were cut. But "One man's trash is another's salvageable goods." :D

•••

I originally wasn't going to make Novak and Amelia an official item until later. But after re-watching an old favourite anime (which I won't name), I decided not to drag it out like they did.

Phew. This chapter had the most rewrites out of all of them. I did so much planning for the previous two chapters that when I was finally done with them I was left drifting in the ocean with this one.