"Dragon training begins and ends with trust," Indi said, putting his hand out towards Sleuther, and the dragon placed his nose against his hand. "You have to trust your dragon won't harm you, and the dragon must trust its rider." Princess Selma imitated the gesture Indi did for Sleuther, but towards Cinder, and the young dragon bumped the girl's hand with her nose, before placing her snout against Selma's hand.
"This gesture," Indi continued. "Shows that the dragon trusts you." He rubbed Sleuther's nose, before stepping away, the princess following him to a crate that had a large plate with a lid. Indi removed the lid, revealing several fish. "Feeding time is bonding time between dragon and rider. Feeding them will help them to associate good things with you."
"Like with horses?" Selma asked. Indi held out a fish to her. The princess seemed unsure at first and carefully accepted the offering.
"That's one way of looking at it," Indi said as he chose a fish for himself. "Now, just hold it out to Cinder. Keep your hands flat."
Sleuther and Cinder stood nearby, showing interest in the food. Selma held out the fish on flat hands, being sure to keep her fingers down. Cinder stepped up to her, cocking her head to the side, sniffing the air. She sniffed the fish once, and her head ducked down, snatching the fish from the princess and swallowing it down.
"Very good," Indi said with a smile, handing Sleuther his fish. The older dragon accepted the gift, happily snapping it down. "Now, each dragon has their own particular traits and abilities. You've seen Sleuther. He is a Triple Stryke, and they have three tails, each with a venomous stinger, and large wings for their body size. Cinder's type is called a Deadly Nadder. They have venomous spines on their back and tails that they can fling at enemies, as well as some of the hottest known fires."
"How hot is their fire?" Selma asked.
"Hot enough to melt steel in a single shot," Indi said. "I've seen them do that."
Elsa watched from an open window, sipping from a teacup. King Isak joined her. Elsa noticed that the king walked with a limp, though he seemed to be trying to hide it.
"King Isak," she said, nodded a greeting.
"Queen Elsa," Isak said, looking out the window. "How are they doing?"
"It seems to be going well. I believe Sir Indi is going over the basics."
Isak and Elsa watched the pair and their dragons for a moment. "Queen Elsa, I worry about my family and my kingdom. You and Sir Indi helped us a great deal with the attack, though I do wonder if those men will return. I don't know if we could repel them again without worse losses."
"I know what you mean," Elsa said. "Admittedly, I too wonder about my own family and kingdom. But, should you need help, send word to us, and we will do what we can."
Isak smiled and nodded. "And I thank you for that. I hope my daughter doesn't get any ideas though. She has a dragon now, and she's seen what they can do to help in a fight. I don't want her putting herself in harm's way."
"Walk with me, please," Elsa said. Isak nodded, and the pair strolled through the halls. "You have a strong and intelligent daughter. I do think that she'd know to keep out of combat. Though I would say that perhaps some light training could be useful, at least as a last resort."
"You think so?" Isak seemed unsure.
"Just in case," Elsa said. "No parent wants their children in danger, but isn't it best to prepare children in case something were to happen? You won't always be there to protect her."
Isak looked down at the floor. "You're right."
"I know I don't have children," Elsa continued. "And I may be speaking out of turn here. But we both have people we care about. Responsibilities. I know Sir Indi's methods may be... well... unorthodox, let's say. But he has a good heart. We'll be here for a few more days. I can talk to him about teaching Selma about basic combat with dragons. Perhaps you can organize something with a teacher for weaponry. Even a small sword can help,"
King Isak nodded slowly. "But, here, we don't have women fighting."
"Normally we don't in Arendelle," Elsa said. "But things have changed a bit. I have personally met women who are just as capable fighters as men."
"Very well," Isak sighed. "Sir Indi can teach her basic combat with her dragon. I'll talk to Olivia about the weapons."
Elsa nodded. "I'll discuss it with Indi."
"Please keep me informed," Isak said.
"Of course," Elsa said. They stopped by a set of doors. He looked at Elsa once more, tightened his lips pensively, and turned to leave.
Elsa watched as Isak walked away, noticing him rub his thigh for a few steps, before opening the door and stepping outside. She turned to see Indi fly overhead. He was hanging from one of Sleuther's tails, which was wrapped around his torso.
"Hi, Elsa!"
"What are you doing?!" Elsa shouted.
"We are going over dragon attributes," Indi said as Sleuther hovered overhead, hanging him in front of the queen.
"If she tries this," Elsa said, pointing at Selma. "Her parents will not be pleased."
"She's not going to try this," Indi said. "Right, princess?" Elsa looked over to see Selma holding her thumb in the air before she went back to petting her dragon.
The queen shook her head, before looking back to Indi. "Can I discuss something with you?"
"Sure. Let me down, Sleuther." Indi said, patting Sleuther's tail. The dragon complied, releasing his rider. Indi landed on the ground lightly, Sleuther touching down behind him. "What's on your mind?"
"I was talking with King Isak," Elsa said. "He wants you to train Selma in dragon combat."
"Uh, I think I can do that, but that's a change."
"He wants her to be able to protect herself."
"And you think now is the best time to start that? You know I'm stumble-stuttering my way through this as is. I'm no Hiccup, and I've only been riding Sleuther for a little while now."
"Yes," Elsa said nodding. "You're a warrior, and you're the only dragon rider here."
"Slight correction," Indi said. "I barely count as a warrior, and the way I deal with people is not like other knights." To emphasize his point, he held up his right hand and let his claws slide out slightly.
"Please," Elsa said.
"Alright," Indi said, holding his hands up. "I'll see what I can throw together for tomorrow."
"Thank you."
Indi turned and went to the girl. "Princess, that's it for today. We'll start again tomorrow morning. Go tell your parents what all we've been up to."
"Alright, Sir Indi," Selma said. She rubbed her dragon's head. "I'll be back, Cinder." The dragon squawked and attempted to follow the princess into the castle. "No, Cinder. Stay outside. Stay."
Cinder cocked her head, and Sleuther snorted. The Nadder turned to look at the older dragon, and Sleuther roared lightly. Cinder left the princess and went to settle down by one of the walls surrounding the courtyard.
"It also helps to have Sleuther," Indi said. The princess nodded and went into the castle.
Elsa turned back to Indi. "So, what ideas do you have?"
Indi thought for a moment. "I'll have to locate General Markus and talk to him. Hopefully, he won't mind us destroying some archery targets."
Elsa raised an eyebrow but said nothing.
"Destroy as many as needed!" General Markus said before sipping on a cup of coffee. "They're cheap. Though, may I ask why you'll be training back in the archery range? You already seem quite proficient in combat."
Indi was sitting at a table, eating with the general and several higher-ranking officers. After he had located Markus, who was apparently just about to eat supper, Indi was quickly invited to join them.
"King Isak wants me to give his daughter a brief primer in dragon combat," Indi said. "Something of a safety net so that she can protect herself should the Southern Isles be attacked again. I figured that would be the best place since it would involve destroying some things."
"That makes sense." Markus took a bite of food, nodding. "I don't see why it wouldn't be an issue."
"May I ask something?" another man at the table said. He had short, blonde hair and a somewhat scrappy mustache.
"Yes, Lieutenant Weston," Markus said.
"Should we allow Sir Indi to teach the Princess combat?" Weston said. "I'd think it's rather unbecoming of a young lady. What would a potential suitor think? Not to mention, women don't fight here."
"No reason to not start," Indi said. "If you're worried about potential suitors for the princess being scared off by her ability with a weapon, what about her dragon Cinder?"
"I would also like to bring a question to Sir Indi's abilities. As I understand it, he has not been trained by a master."
"That's a pair point," Indi said. "It is true, I have not been formally trained. However, I will not be teaching her combat with weapons. Just with her dragon."
"Even so, again, women don't fight here."Indi sighed. "Through my travels, I have met several women who are quite capable fighters, both with weapons and their dragons. Do I expect Princess Selma to be on the front lines, leading a charge? Absolutely not. However, I'm sure that even you, Lieutenant, cannot deny the benefit of simply being prepared."
Markus set down his fork. "The king has requested it, and he requested Sir Indi teach the princess. That is the end of this, Lieutenant." The blond man remained silent, clearly unsatisfied. "Sir Indi, you may use the archery range for training the Princess and her dragon. Did you have any specific time in mind?"
"After her academic lessons," Indi said. "Midafternoon, perhaps?"
"I'll be sure to have it available for you to use," Markus said. "Though I can't guarantee that you won't have an audience."
"That's fine," Indi said. "I'm sure the king and queen would like to see what we get up to."
"Admittedly, so would I. We don't see this sort of thing too much."
Indi laughed. "Fair enough."
After dinner, Indi went to the courtyard and mounted Sleuther, taking the dragon for a ride. The sun has just begun to set, the glowing orb sinking closer to the horizon.
Sleuther glided along, floating over the town below. Indi breathed in deeply.
"I think I'm ready to go back north soon," Indi said, patting the dragon's flank. "What do you think, Sleuther?"
Sleuther rumbled, seemingly in agreement.
As they flew, Indi saw several of the townspeople looking up at them and pointing. He waved down to them, earning a few cheers from the children.
The dragon banked south, gliding over an orchard. Workers down below were carrying in their baskets of fruits. He sat back, letting Sleuther fly where he wished.
As much as he enjoyed the company of King Isak and his family, the castle was getting stuffy. Not to mention the role he inadvertently took on in dragon training with Princess Selma. He was sure that things would be fine once he and Elsa left, but between all of business with Hans, and then the battle, he was ready to return.
"So much for a relaxing vacation, right, Sleuther?" He patted the dragon, and the dragon snorted. "Let's head back, buddy." Sleuther banked, turning towards the castle.
The next day, Indi stood in the archery range. Sleuther and Cinder stood nearby, looking around at the new area. Racks of bows and quivers of arrows sat nearby, waiting for soldiers to use them. At the far end of the range, were several wooden and straw targets, each with colored rings painted on them. Near the firing line, a covered plate of fish was on a crate, with some small chunks of ice underneath (courtesy of Elsa) to keep the food fresh.
After some time, he heard the door open, and Princess Selma joined him.
"Hello, Princess," he said with a small bow. "Are you ready to begin?"
"Yes, Sir Indi," Selma said. "What are we doing today."
"Your father reached out to Queen Elsa, who in turn reached out to me, so that I may train you in basic training dragon-focused combat. In case the kingdom is attacked again, he wants you to be prepared to defend yourself." The princess nodded. "So today, we'll be going over some of the basics, and working on training both you and Cinder."
Sleuther laid down, lounging on his side. Indi glanced up at one of the windows and saw several people watching them. He caught sight of Elsa and the king and queen of the Southern Isles. Indi began slowly pacing back and forth. "As you know, each dragon has their own particular attributes and abilities. What I am going to teach you today is basic commands to give your dragon and the associated actions."
The princess nodded.
"Now, you know that your dragon can fling her tail spines at an enemy, should she feel the need to. Those spines are venomous and are incredibly sharp. They make very good long-range weapons." He gestured to a set of targets on the archery range. "Have her shoot some spines towards those targets."
"Alright," Selma said. "What command should I use?"
"A woman I know who rides a Deadly Nadder used the command 'spine shot'."
Selma nodded and called her dragon. The green Nadder strode over to her.
"Cinder. Spine shot!" The dragon cocked her head and began grooming underneath her wings.
"Cinder," Selma said again, puffing out her chest, before pointing at the targets. "Spine shot." Cinder looked at the targets, before walking over and biting one.
"She's not listening," Selma said.
"She's young," Indi said as he leaned back against Sleuther. "I never said dragon training was easy. Call her back over and try again."
Selma called for her dragon, and Cinder strode over to her. "Cinder. Spine shot." The young dragon looked at the girl and bumped her with her snout. "No, not that."
Indi left Sleuther and picked up a bow and some arrows. He stood at the firing line and whistled.
"Cinder." Once he had the dragon's attention, he knocked an arrow and drew back. He lined up a shot and looked at the dragon. "Spine shot."
He looked back at the target and released. The arrow shot through the air, before embedding itself into the target in the ring outside of the center. Cinder looked at the arrow in the target, and then back to the princess.
"Cinder," Selma said, before pointing at the target. "Spine shot!"
The dragon wheeled around, before swinging her tail, launching a few small spines at the target. The spines flew through the air, and two of them hit the target, while one went too high and stuck into the stone wall behind them.
From some of the open windows, they heard people clapping with light applause.
"Well done!" Indi said. "Now reward her."
The princess nodded, now beaming, and lifted the lid, before offering it to her dragon. Cinder walked over and snapped up her prize.
"Again," Indi said, and he returned the bow to the rack.
Selma nodded and brought her dragon to the firing line. "Cider, spine shot."
The dragon cocked her head again, looked at the target, and swung her tail, unleashing two more of her spines. One stuck in the target, and the other shot just over and stuck into the wall.
"Good girl!" Selma exclaimed, clapping her hands, before retrieving another fish and giving it to her dragon. "One more time. Cinder, spine shot!"
Cinder immediately swung her tail, releasing three more, which stuck into the target at various points.
"Alright, that's enough of that," Indi said, picking up a fish and handing it to the princess. "You don't want her to use up all of her spines. She'll have to regrow them."
"I understand," Selma said as she gave the fish to Cinder.
"Now, many dragons can breathe fire. For those that do, it is a very powerful weapon, and it can be effective against their enemies. But fire can be extremely dangerous to you, as well as any bystanders. It must only be used when absolutely necessary, and training must occur away from things that are easily ignited and shouldn't be burned. Do you understand?"
"Yes, Sir Indi," Selma said.
"Good," Indi said with a smile, before pointing at some targets. "To start, I'll have Sleuther shoot a fire last at those targets.
"And then I'll give Cinder the same command," Selma said with a nod.
"Exactly," Indi said, before going over to his dragon. The Triple Stryke rumbled as he approached. "Hey, Sleuther. Mind helping us out by showing Cinder how to burn stuff?"
Sleuther snorted, rising to his feet, and Indi directed him to the firing line.
"Sleuther," Indi said, gesturing at the targets. "Fire."
The larger dragon inhaled before unleashing a fireblast at one of the targets. The flames engulfed the target, igniting the wood, and spreading soot on the stone wall behind it. After a moment, Sleuther extinguished his flame and licked his teeth.
"Yes, you get one too," Indi said, walking over to the plate and choosing a fish. He gave it to Sleuther, and the dragon snapped it down. "Alright, princess. Your turn."
Selma nodded and pointed at the target. "Cinder. Fire."
The young dragon looked up at the windows of the castle.
"No, not there!" Selma said with a panicked laugh. "At the target, girl. Cinder. Fire!"
The young dragon breathed in and shot a jet of white-hot fire that sparked near the edges. The fire shot into the target, quickly burning the straw and wood until it had disappeared and charred the stone behind it.
Once more, a light applause sounded sound in the training area, slightly louder than before.
"Good," Indi said as Selma gave her dragon another fish. "Now, hit another one."
Selma nodded and gave the command once more. Cinder quickly shot another blast, incinerating another target.
"You're getting the hang of it," Indi said, walking over and petting Cinder on the head. "Just keep at it, and you both will learn."
"Could I think of some of my own commands?" Selma asked.
"Of course," Indi said. "Feel free to think about it and teach her your own commands and actions." Selma nodded, and Cinder squawked.
"Oh, right," Selma said, retrieving a fish from the plate and giving it to her dragon. "Tomorrow, we'll be doing some more advanced training," Indi said, petting Cinder as the young Nadder snapped down her fish. "If you have any questions, come find me either tonight or tomorrow." Selma nodded.
Behind them, the door to the archery range opened. The pair turned to see King Isak, Queen Olivia, and Queen Elsa enter the space.
"Well done, Selma," Isak said.
"She and Cinder are doing very well," Indi said as Elsa put a hand out to touch the young dragon. "These are just the basics, but I fully expect her to be able to forge her path and learn on her own."
"Sir Indi," Elsa said, leaving Cinder. "Could I have a moment with you?"
Indi nodded, before turning to the other people present. "Excuse me."
He and Elsa left the royal family and went into the castle. Indi heard a noise and glanced behind him, seeing Sleuther take flight. He turned to face forward, walking next to Elsa.
"Thank you for working with the princess, Indi," Elsa said.
"It's not so bad," Indi said with a shrug. "Like you said, we don't have many options, and it would probably be unwise to leave her completely inexperienced."
Elsa smiled softly. "I've done some thinking and informal organizing. I think once we arrive back in Arendelle, after a few days, you can go back north to the dragon riders."
"Thank you, Elsa," Indi said, grinning. He noticed something on the side of Elsa's head and furrowed his brow. He reached up to her temple and gently touched her with his fingertips. He felt a thick liquid, and pulled his hand away, smearing blood on his fingers. In all of the recent events, they both had forgotten that Elsa had been injured not too long ago by dragon hunters in Arendelle. "Perhaps you should have stayed out of the battle."
"I'm fine, Indi," Elsa said.
"Nope," Indi said. He grabbed her hand and gently pulled her through the halls. "Come with me. I'm not taking any chances with you."
Indi took Elsa through the castle to the room that had been turned into an infirmary. He knocked on the open door, getting the attention of the occupants.
"Queen Elsa," a man said, bowing. He wore glasses and was clothed in white. "And Sir Indi. To what do we owe the pleasure?"
"It seems that I am bleeding," Elsa said, stepping into the room. She glanced about, seeing injured men lying on cots. Most of them were soldiers.
The man's eyes widened, and he ushered the pair inside. "Come in, come in. Somebody, fetch me a chair."
One of the white-clad women in the room, brought over a chair, setting it in front of the queen.
"Thank you, doctor," Elsa said as she sat.
"You honor me, Your Majesty, but I am no doctor, just merely a healer. My name is Ketil," the man said, examining Elsa's temple. "Can you tell me what happened?"
"A few weeks ago, in Arendelle," Elsa said. We were attacked by dragon hunters, as this kingdom was. As I was protecting people, one of those men ambushed me and struck me from behind."
"Those cowards," Ketil said under his breath.
Elsa nodded. "When I woke, I was in my bed, being treated by my own healers. They did well, but this is the first time since the bandages have been removed that we've noticed blood."
"Well, this doesn't seem serious," Ketil said. "At least not anymore. From what I can see, it seems that your scabs are coming off, perhaps a bit prematurely."
One of the women in the room came over with a bowl of warm water and some clean clothes.
"If you'll allow me to, Your Majesty," Ketil began. Elsa nodded, and the man began gently dabbing at Elsa's head with a damp cloth. After a few swipes, he dunked the cloth in the bowl and wrung it out, before repeating the process.
After several minutes, he took a dry cloth and gently wiped the side of Elsa's head. Ketil rose and went to a bag, where he got some clean strips of fabric and a bottle of some sort of liquid. He folded one of the pieces of fabric into a small square slightly smaller than Elsa's palm and poured a small amount of the liquid onto it. He then places it against the peeling scab on her head. Elsa hissed, resisting the instinct to recoil away at the stinging pain.
"My apologies, Your Majesty," Ketil said. "But that should help prevent infection."
"It's alright," Elsa said.
"Sir Indi, if you would hold this here," Ketil said. Indi nodded and stepped over, kneeling next to Elsa and gently holding the fabric to her head with a pair of fingers. Kettil retrieved a long strip of fabric and began wrapping it around Elsa's head, making sure to cover the needed area.
As the healer worked, Indi looked at Elsa. "So, you come here often?"
Elsa could only chuckle, rolling her eyes.
After a moment, Ketil gently tied the fabric.
"Alright, that should work," Ketil said.
"Thank you," Elsa said, rising from the chair.
"Please keep that on until tomorrow morning, then come see me," Ketil said as he began putting things away. "I'll change the bandages."
"Of course," Elsa said. "Thank you again."
"It was my pleasure," Ketil said, bowing.
Indi and Elsa left the makeshift infirmary, going back into the halls.
"Was that really necessary?" Elsa said.
"Yes," Indi said. "I want you to be taken care of."
Elsa smiled softly. "That's sweet, but then I want you to get that taken care of right when we get home." She pointed at the cut on Indi's cheek, which had begun to scab over again.
"Alright. For you," Indi said. Elsa nodded, satisfied with his answer. "Have you heard anything about those people we rescued from the dragon hunter ship?"
"As I understand it," Elsa said. "Queen Olivia is working on finding them passage on ships that will be going by their homes."
Indi nodded, sighing. "Good. And what has been done with the dead?"
"Soldiers were buried with private funerals with their families," Elsa said. "The dragon hunters had their bodies burned."
The pair were quiet for a few moments.
"I have to say, Indi, you've been doing well with all of the protocol here in the castle," Elsa said.
"It helps that I don't have to be as uptight and formal as in Arendelle," Indi said.
"I'm sure." Elsa was quiet for a moment, before speaking softly. "Indi, has that... partial transformation happened to you again?"
Indi shook his head. "It has not. Not that there has been much of a reason for it to."
I could do it now, the voice said.
"No," Indi said. Elsa glanced over at him.
"Is everything alright?"
Indi sighed. "Can we go somewhere private? I want to tell you something."
Elsa nodded and wordlessly led Indi to her room. They entered, and Elsa closed the door.
"What's wrong?" she asked. She sat down on the small sofa, motioning for Indi to do the same.
"I don't know how to say this," Indi said as he settled down next to her.
"Why don't you just start from the beginning?" Elsa said.
"Alright," Indi said, he took a breath in an attempt to calm his nerves. "Back when Arendelle was attacked by the dragon hunters most recently, the night you were hurt, something happened to me when my abilities started to come back. I started hearing a voice."
"A voice?" Elsa said.
"Yes," Indi said.
"What does it say?"
"Not much, right now," Indi said. "When I was attacked in my room, it said to eat the men that I killed."
"Indi," Elsa said. "You didn't... did you?"
"No," Indi said quickly. "There was the more pressing matter of other invaders. Most of the time it just wants to go hunting. That's what got me caught by those soldiers. It also seems to hate the castle life even more than I do."
"Does this voice have a name?" Elsa asked. Indi tried to read her face but could not. She was masking her feelings too well.
"It calls itself Indominus," Indi said. "Don't ask."
"What does this voice sound like?"
"Kind of deep, and a bit gravely," Indi said.
"Like the voice I heard before you killed Hoskins?"
"I guess," Indi said. "It says that it can control my body."
Elsa was quiet. This was quite the revelation. After some time, she spoke. "Does this voice... Indominus... does it talk about me?"
"A little," Indi said. "It likes you."
Elsa nodded. She had heard of people hearing voices, and those voices sometimes told those people to do things. Suddenly, a slight movement caught her eye. She looked over to see Indi's arm and half of his face shift, turning white, scales forming on the skin. She resisted the urge to move away. Indi blinked; his right eye had a membrane slide over the eyeball from the side. The sharp teeth on the right side of his face worked as he licked his lips, which were cut off halfway, the skin a pink scar tissue. Indi raised his right hand, looking at his small thumb and three long fingers. Each digit had a long claw.
"Indi," Elsa said as a shiver went up her spine. "I don't like this."
Indi looked into a mirror, before turning away. He wished the mirror would have broken. He cast his gaze downward. "I'm sorry. I'll try to find a way to fix it."
He willed his arm and face to change back, and it did, albeit slowly. Elsa watched as he rose, leaving the room. She was tempted to reach out to him. "Indi, I… I'm sorry."
The next day, Elsa was up with the sun. She waited for a few moments, before sitting up on her bed. She reached over and turned a small crank. After a few moments, a pair of handmaids came into the room and helped her to get ready: assisting with a dress, combing her hair, and applying some light makeup to her face.
Once she was ready, she dismissed the servants, who curtsied and left. Elsa left her room as well, making her way through the halls. Breakfast likely be ready shortly. She made her way to Indi's room and knocked on the door. She stood back, folding her hands, waiting for an answer.
After a moment, she knocked once more. Perhaps Indi was still in a deep sleep. After not receiving an answer, Elsa pursed her lips. She turned and went back through the halls.
As she walked, her mind drifted. Whatever von Shwicke had put into Indi seemed to be wearing off, despite having unusual effects. Perhaps she had been rash and a bit cruel to him last night. Indi could not control what he looked like, and his partial transformation was a very recent development. She would have to find him.
She made her way to the dining hall. A servant nearby nodded and went to announce her arrival, before returning, and Elsa entered the room.
Sitting at the table were King Isak, Queen Olivia, and their children.
Elsa nodded and sat on the opposite end of the table from King Isak.
"Queen Elsa," Isak said. "I trust you slept well."
"Very well, thank you," Elsa said.
"Queen Elsa," Olivia said. "May I ask you something?"
"Of course."
"When Sir Indi rescued us from Hans and those other men, he… changed…" Olivia said, seeming to struggle to find the correct words. "Do you know what that was?"
"My wife has brought this to my attention," Isak said. A servant came by, offering the people at the table tea. Everyone accepted a cup.
"I think I know what you mean," Elsa said. "I saw it too. There is a bit of a story behind that."
Queen Olivia urged her to continue. Elsa took a sip of her tea, before lightly clearing her throat. "When he came to Arendelle for the first time, Sir Indi had been stabbed by some men. I was lucky to have spotted this happening and had him brought inside to heal. After some time, I received some men in my throne room.
"One of those men was reportedly Indi's adoptive father. In a sense, that was true.
Once Indi came to the room to meet these men, the one reporting to be his parent ordered him to attack me. When Indi refused, the man, who is named George von Schwicke, lunged at me. Indi defended me until von Schwicke goaded Indi to transform.
"You see, Indi is just one of many people created by von Schwicke and his experiments. He combines humans with reptilian beasts. Indi, as you saw, is also combined with a creature, one that is called an Indominus rex.
"Once he transformed, Indi attacked the men and drove them off. Over the time since, we've rescued more of these people, most of them children, and they've come to live in Arendelle."
Elsa took a sip of her tea. She looked at the family and saw that she had their attention. "After an attack where Sir Indi had to kill a massive, black reptilian creature that was put into my kingdom by George von Schwicke and was trying to kill me, he went north, forging alliances with the dragon-riding Vikings.
"At the end of his time up there, during which, as you know, he got caught up in their skirmishes with the dragon hunters, he was captured and taken to a place where a new group of human-reptile combinations were being held: this time, people and dragons.
"Sir Indi managed to free them, and as they were making their escape, he was caught on a dragon-hunters ship, where von Schwicke was located. Von Schwicke out something in him, some kind of substance that we now know suppressed his abilities, including the ability to transform."
"Recently, Sir Indi's abilities have begun to return. However, the serum that was put into his body is either still suppressing his abilities somewhat or has altered them. We're still trying to figure it out."
The table was silent for a moment.
"So, that altered ability is what we saw happen to him?" Olivia asked.
"Yes," Elsa said. "I believe so."
King Isak spoke. "I must admit, this is very hard for me to believe. People being able to change into reptiles."
"I can control snow and ice," Elsa said, waving her hand and allowing some snowflakes to drift around her fingers. "Were you not to see it first-hand, wouldn't that also be difficult to believe?"
"You have a point," Isak said. "Speaking of whom, will Sir Indi be joining us?"
Elsa was silent for a second. "I don't believe so. He and I had… not, an argument, but I think I truly hurt him. Emotionally, I mean, and it was not warranted."
"Queen Elsa," Olivia said. "If there is one thing that I have learned, it's that the ability to apologize and admit when you are wrong is of utmost importance, especially for people like us."
Elsa nodded, and several servants with trays of food began entering the room. "You're right."
After breakfast, Elsa went to the most likely place she would find Indi: the courtyard.
As she stepped outside, she saw a large team of men working near the damaged portion of the castle wall. A shadow passed over her, and Sleuther roared. The dragon landed a short distance away. Elsa stepped over to the dragon.
"Hi," Indi said as he approached.
"Hello," Elsa said as Indi climbed down from Sleuther's back. He knelt by the dragon, undoing the straps. "Indi, I'd like to apologize. Last night, I treated you like a monster. I, of all people, should know better. I'm sorry."
Indi rose and turned to face Elsa. "You don't have anything to apologize for, Elsa. I scare you."
"You don't scare me, Indi," Elsa said, stepping forward. She gently reached her hand out towards Indi's hand. The knight pulled away. "Everything that's happening to you is concerning, yes, but you yourself don't scare me."
Indi's eyes were downcast, and he sighed. He removed the saddle from Sleuther's back.
"I accept your apology, Elsa," Indi said.
Elsa reached out and gently took Indi's hand. "May we go for a walk?"
Indi stood for a moment before nodding silently. "Let me put this away first."
Elsa nodded, and Indi walked off, carrying Sleuther's saddle with him. He went into the short passageway that led to the stables and disappeared for a moment, before coming back. Indi motioned to Elsa, and the pair walked out of the courtyard, going into the town. The pair walked silently. Indi still seemed rather downcast.
"Did you eat?" Elsa asked in an attempt to break the tension.
"Yeah," Indi said. "I ate with Sleuther."
"Are you ready to go back with the dragon riders?"
"Yes," Indi said.
"I don't think I'll be going with you," Elsa said. "I was supposed to be planning a dance before we got attacked. I'd like to do that before you leave, though."
"So you want me to stay until then?"
"Yes," Elsa said with a nod.
"I'll think about it," Indi said. "I might stay, but don't count on me attending."
Elsa nodded, and the pair entered a small park. There were trees, carefully manicured grass, and a few isolated benches. There was no one else in sight in the park.
"I thought you wouldn't," Elsa said. "You've done a lot here, all of which is helpful to mend relations between this kingdom and Arendelle. I couldn't expect more of you right now."
Elsa put her arms out towards him. Indi hesitated for a moment before stepping to the queen. Elsa wrapped her arms around the young knight. After a moment, she felt his hands on her back. She placed her chin on Indi's shoulder and spoke quietly into his ear. "I truly am sorry, Indi."
Indi was silent for a moment. "I forgive you, Elsa."
Elsa pulled away, looking into Indi's eyes. She gently placed a hand on the young man's face. Indi reached up and took the queen's hand, squeezing it gently.
"Do you have any ideas on what you will be teaching Princess Selma today?" Elsa asked. "We will be leaving tomorrow morning."
After a moment, Indi spoke. "I've been thinking about that. Perhaps I could give her a list of things to work on, and take her for a dragon ride on Sleuther one last time." Elsa nodded. "I also want to talk to General Markus once more."
"He's a good man," Elsa said. She had noticed that there was a good rapport between Indi and the general. "I'm glad you've been making friends here."
"It wouldn't do us much good to be making enemies, would it?" Indi said, and Elsa chuckled.
"Perhaps not," Elsa said. "Though I do have to say, Queen Olivia seems to have taken a liking to you. As well as some of the local ladies."
"And what do you mean by that?" Indi said, raising an eyebrow.
"Come now, Indi," Elsa said, poking him in the shoulder. "I saw how those women were looking at you at the dance on Isak's coronation day."
Indi could only roll his eyes. "They wouldn't last a week around me." Elsa laughed.
Indi walked through the halls. He had asked a servant about the possible whereabouts of General Markus.
"Possibly in the armory, my lord," the young man said. Indi nodded his thanks and made his way towards the archery range. Surely, the armory would be close to that.
As he neared the archery range, he encountered another servant this time a maid.
"Excuse me," he said. "Would you be able to direct me to the armory?"
"Of course," the woman said. "Follow me, please." Indi nodded, and the maid led him past the archery range and stood in front of a heavy oak door.
"Here you are," she said, opening the door for him.
"Thank you so much," Indi said. He entered the doorway, and the door slowly swung shut behind him. He walked down the hallway, which was dark, only illuminated by the occasional lantern. Eventually, he came to another large door. This one had a piece of wood over a small window. about head height.
He heard voices from inside and knocked. The voices stopped and the wooden slat slid over, revealing a man's face.
"State your business," a gruff voice said.
"I wish to speak with General Markus," Indi said.
"Sir Indi!" Markus said from inside. "Colonel, let him in."
The man snorted and closed the window. After a moment, the door opened.
Inside, Indi saw racks of weapons and stands of armor, each piece polished and perfect. The room was lit with several candles and lanterns. Several men stood in the room, and one familiar man sat at the desk. General Markus rose from his seat.
"Sir Indi," he said, extending his hand. "What brings you to me today?"
Indi shook the general's hand. Indi shook the general's hand. "I have an offer for you, general."
Markus's eyebrows raised. "Oh? What sort of offer?"
"Queen Elsa has informed me that we will be leaving tomorrow morning," Indi said. "I thought you'd like the opportunity to go for a ride on Sleuther today."
"A ride on your dragon?" Markus said, his eyes widening. "As in, flying."
The other men in the room muttered amongst themselves and Indi nodded. "Yes."
"I… I would be honored," Markus said, tipping his head.
"What time would be best?" Indi said.
"Why not right now?" Markus said.
Indi glanced over at the clock on the wall. "I've got plenty of time. Meet me in the courtyard."
Markus nodded, doing his best to hide his smile, though his efforts were not good enough to mask his emotions.
Indi turned and left the room, walking back down the corridor.
Elsa walked through the halls of the castle. She conversed with some of the visiting nobles who were visiting. They all seemed to know who she was, though she required introductions.
"Is it true that you were involved in the battle?" one lady asked.
"Indeed," Elsa said. "I assisted where I could and provided several lines of defense."
"That sounds dangerous," a man said. "Especially for a woman."
"It's nothing I haven't done before," Elsa said.
"What about the dragon?" another man asked. "Is it true that you ride that beast?"
"Yes," Elsa said. "Sleuther does allow me to ride him, though he and Sir Indi have the strongest bond."
Managing to excuse herself from the small crowd that had formed around her, Elsa pressed on. She made her way to the rooms where the people from the dragon hunters' ship were being housed until they could be transported home. Outside of the door, she knocked and the door opened.
"Your Highness," one of the women said. She rose from her seat, before tipping her head and curtseying. "What can we do for you?"
"I merely came to see how you all are doing," Elsa said.
"We are doing much better than we were when you rescued us," the woman said. The two other women in the room nodded. "If it's not too much trouble, may I ask you a question?"
"Of course," Elsa said, giving a small smile. "May I come in?"
The woman stepped aside, and Elsa entered the room. Each of the women who had been on the ship wore plain dresses. Even so, the simple garments were vast improvements over the rags that they had been covered in previously.
"I deeply apologize, but I don't recall ever getting your name," Elsa said. "What may I call you?"
"I am Elise," the woman who initially greeted Elsa said. "And this is Maren and Greta." Elsa gave a friendly nod to each of them.
"It's a pleasure to officially meet you all," Elsa said. "I hope you are being well cared for during your time here."
"Yes," Maren said. "Queen Olivia has been very accommodating to us."
"Wonderful," Elsa said. "I will be here for the rest of today. Sir Indi and I will be leaving tomorrow morning. You are all welcome to come visit Arendelle once you get settled back in your homes."
"Thank you, Your Majesty," Greta said. "You honor us."
As Elsa turned to leave, Elise called out. "Queen Elsa?"
Elsa turned to look at the woman. "Yes?"
"I don't expect you to be aware, but what do you think those men were taking us for?" Elsa stood silent for a moment.
"A form of slavery," she said, before turning and leaving the room. There was no sense in terrifying the women more than that. They knew what they needed to, and nothing more.
Elsa made her way to the room where the two men who were rescued from the ship were staying and talked with them. They seemed to be in better spirits than the women, but only slightly. She invited them to her kingdom as well, once they had been reunited with their families, of course.
Indi and General Markus stood outside in the courtyard. Sleuther had his saddle on and was standing behind Indi. The sun was nearing its apex. Many people, especially guards and soldiers, had also gathered in the courtyard to witness their general ride a dragon.
"Alright, general," Indi said. "When we do this, feel free to hang on to either myself or the saddle. I'll do my best to make the takeoff slow, but Sleuther is a naturally fast dragon. You've seen us fly before."
Markus nodded. "Understood."
Indi climbed up and settled into the saddle. He reached down, and took Markus's hand, pulling the man up. As Markus sat down, Sleuther shifted.
"It's alright, buddy," Indi said, reaching down and patting the dragon's head. He turned to the general. "Ready?"
Markus nodded.
"Go, Sleuther!" Sleuther extended his wings into the air, before flapping them downwards. He shot into the air, carrying his passengers with him. General Markus grabbed onto Indi's shoulders. Indi laughed, hanging onto the dragon's horns as they shot upwards, the wind blowing past them, ripping at their clothes and flowing through their hair. Eventually, Sleuther leveled out, flying straight.
"How do you do this?" Markus asked, looking down.
"It wasn't easy at first," Indi said. "My first few dragon rides were into a battle. You have to learn quickly in that scenario."
Markus sighed, looking down. From their current height, Indi saw the several large islands that made up the Southern Isles.
"I never thought I'd see the kingdom like this," Markus said. "I've walked the streets, explored its forests, swam in the waters… but, seeing it now... It's just so small."
"I've grown up with that knowledge," Indi said. "Things you think are big, even expansive, but all it takes is something truly massive to put things into perspective."
"If my children could see me now…" Markus said.
"You have a family?" Indi asked. Beneath them, Sleuther snorted. He watched as a bird careened away, desperately trying to escape the giant reptile.
"I do," Markus said. "I haven't seen them in several months. My duties keep me from them, but I always try to visit them when I can."
Indi looked around, thinking. "Where is your home?"
"On the second southernmost island," Markus said.
Indi nodded. "Swing south, Sleuther."
Sleuther grunted and gently banked into a turn, before straightening out. He flapped a few times, gaining a little speed, before holding his wings out and gliding along.
"Where are we going?" Markus asked.
"I'm taking you to your family," Indi said, glancing behind him at the older man. "You've been away long enough. I'm sure the castle will still be standing when we return. Surely they can manage for a little while."
Sleuther glided over the islands, passing over the small inlets and strips of ocean that divided the kingdom. Each island had small settlements, each with a sizeable manor.
"What are those large buildings on the islands?" Indi asked.
"Those are the homes for the princes and their families," Markus said.
"And each island has its own prince?" Indi asked.
"Most of them do," Markus said. "Some are so small that they are managed by the nearest larger island."
Indi nodded, understanding. As they passed over the islands, people looked up at them, pointing. Surely word of Sleuther's role in defending the castle had reached here by this point. In something of an assertive greeting and an announcement of his presence, he roared, releasing a jet of fire into the air in front of him.
Indi laughed and patted the dragon's head. "Yes, Sleuther. No one will mess with you."
"It's coming up soon," Markus said. "It will be the next island we come to."
Indi nodded. The trio passed over another section of ocean that sat between two islands. In the waves beneath them was a small group of fishing boats. Sleuther dove, shooting between two of the vessels, sending up a spray of water. Shooting up into the air, Indi saw him snapping down a fish.
"Sleuther!" Indi said, laughing. "Bad dragon!" Sleuther roared lightly in response.
"That will certainly be a story for their families," Markus said, chuckling. Sleuther glided over the island's coastline. Markus looked closely at the ground, watching for his home. After a few moments, he tapped Indi's shoulder.
"There," he said, pointing. Indi nodded and directed Sleuther slightly to the left. Looking at the house, Indi saw it was a simple structure. It had two floors, though the second seemed to be a loft. The area around the house was surrounded by a simple wooden fence made from hewn rails. In a garden near the house was a trio of people, one of them larger than the other. Sleuther passed overhead, his shadow covering the people momentarily.
Immediately, the people dropped their tools and started running to the house.
"Land, Sleuther," Indi said. Sleuther folded his wings and dropped from the sky. Indi could tell that the people were indeed a woman and small children. The small family ran into the house.
As they neared the ground, Sleuther threw his wings out, catching the air. He flapped a few times, controlling his descent, before landing with a light thump on the ground.
"Alva!" Markus called as he dismounted. "Fiona! Finlay! It's father! Don't be afraid."
The door to the house opened slowly, before being thrown open. Indi dismounted and hung back with his dragon.
"Father!" the children cried as they charged forth. Markus threw his arms around them, pulling them close. A red-headed woman dashed from the house, and Markus ran to meet her, picking her up by her waist and spinning her around, laughing.
"Oh, I've missed you, Alva!" Markus said and the pair kissed. "I've missed all of you."
"Darling!" Alva said with a strong accent. "We weren't expecting you to visit for another month yet!" Markus laughed.
"Yes, but an opportunity came to me and I couldn't refuse." He gestured to Indi and Sleuther. Indi gave a two-fingered wave. "This is Sir Indi Rex of Arendelle and his dragon Sleuther. They brought me here."
Indi stepped forward and took the woman's hand, giving it a quick kiss. "It's a pleasure, ma'am."
"Thank you for bringing my husband to us," Alva said.
"It was not a problem," Indi said. "I was happy to, and Sleuther just likes to fly, so it worked out."
"Did you get permission from the king?" Alva asked. Markus and Indi shared a glance.
"Well, no," Markus said. "But we got here quickly, and the castle will be fine without me for a little while."
Alva seemed unsure, but her smile returned. "We were just about to eat. Sir Indi, would you like to join us?"
"I would love to," Indi said with a smile. "Come inside, please," Alva said, taking her husband's hand, and leading him into their home.
Indi looked back and saw Sleuther watching him. "I'll be back soon, bud. Stand guard, alright?"
Sleuther snorted, before curling up, watching the road that ran by the house. Satisfied, Indi nodded and followed the family inside.
The house was warm and inviting. Shelves on the walls held cups and bowls. Several candles were lit, their small flames licking the air, providing more light. A small fireplace had a few struggling flames. Markus added some extra wood and knelt to lightly blow into it.
"Please, Sir Indi," Alva said, gesturing to a chair at a table. "Have a seat."
Indi sat in the offered chair and Markus sat next to him, taking his son onto his lap.
"We heard that there was a battle at the castle," the girl named Fiona said. "Were you safe?"
"As safe as I could be," Markus said. "We were attacked by dragon hunters. Unfortunately for them, Queen Elsa, Sir Indi, and Sleuther were there to help us. Sir Indi's dragon saved us when those men managed to get onto the wall."
Indi smiled. "We were just glad we could help."
Alva scooped some stew into several bowls and served the meal with slices of bread.
As everyone began to eat, Alva spoke. "Sir Indi, what were you and Queen Elsa doing here in the Southern Isles? As I understand it, we haven't been on the best terms with Arendelle."
"That is true," Indi said. "But, Queen Elsa was invited to King Charles's funeral, and she wanted to try to mend the relationship between the two kingdoms, as did the royal family here. I came along, both as transportation through Sleuther and to assist Her Majesty."
Alva nodded. "And I'm sure you did well."
"Thank you," Indi said. "I certainly try."
"Father," Finlay said. "What is it like riding a dragon?"
Markus and Indi looked at each other. Indi shrugged.
"Well," Markus said, swallowing a bite of his food. "That's a hard question to answer. It's kind of like riding a horse. I suppose it is the ultimate form of freedom. You can go wherever you want. Mountains and oceans are nowhere near as big of barriers anymore. Am I missing anything, Sir Indi?"
Indi nodded. "You've covered it fairly succinctly. I'd only add that, like with long journeys without dragons, you still want to prepare supplies. Though, you certainly don't need as much."
Markus nodded. "It is amazing though. Sir Indi rides his dragon every day."
"Can I have a dragon?" Fiona asked.
"Absolutely not," Alva said.
"Unfortunately, no," Markus said. "They are amazing creatures, but they are dangerous, and it takes a lot of knowledge and skill to keep one."
"I learned from other people," Indi said. "It's not something most people can just jump right into. But, perhaps when I return to the Southern Isles, I can show you a little bit." Markus nodded.
"That sounds fair," Alva said as they finished their meal.
"Sir Indi," Markus said. "Don't you need to be back to the castle soon for your meeting with the princess?"
"I do, yes," Indi said. "But I think she could wait a little bit."
"Nonsense. We won't keep you from your obligations," Markus said as he rose. He gathered his family in his arms. "My dears, I'm afraid I have to leave. But, I will be back."
"Please write to us," Fiona said.
"I will," Markus said, kissing his daughter on the head. "Like I always do."
Markus kissed his wife.
"Sir Indi," Alva said. "Thank you for giving us this time together."
"It was my pleasure," Indi said.
Alva went over and gave him a quick peck on the cheek. "You are always welcome at our home."
"You honor me, ma'am," Indi said, noting that the woman smelled slightly of flowers. He turned to General Markus. "Are you ready?"
The man nodded. "I suppose so."
The group left the house and saw Sleuther lying on the ground. His wings were splayed out, soaking up the sunlight. Indi walked over and patted the dragon on the side.
"Sleuther, wake up," he said. Sleuther opened his eyes and yawned, his large teeth glinting in the light. He brought his wings in and rose to his feet.
Indi mounted his dragon as Markus hugged his family one last time. "Fiona, Finlay, you two be helpful to your mother, alright?"
"Yes, father," the pair said in unison.
"Be safe, dear," Alva said.
"I'll do my best," Markus said, kissing his wife. He left his family and climbed onto Sleuther, sitting behind Indi.
Indi gave the woman and children a wave, before grabbing the edge of the saddle. "Ready?"
"I'm ready," Markus said, placing his hands on Indi's shoulders.
"Let's go, Sleuther." The dragon extended his wings, and flapped, lifting off from the ground, and flying off.
Elsa stood in the courtyard, looking at the sky. With her was King Isak and his family. Princess Selma was petting Cinder, the green Nadder enjoying the attention.
"Where might he have gone?" Queen Olivia said.
"It could be anywhere, honestly," Elsa said. "Though I doubt that he would miss his commitments like this. He's been doing quite well. Oh, there he is." A large shadow passed overhead, and Sleuther landed. Elsa was surprised to see General Markus dismount from the dragon's back.
"Thank you so much, Sir Indi," Markus said. "The ride was incredible."
"You are very welcome," Indi said as he dismounted. "Though it was not at all a problem."
As the pair walked over to the royals, General Markus bowed. "Your Majesties. I apologize for my absence."
"Where did you two run off to?" King Isak said.
"I apologize if I was missed, my king," Markus said. "Sir Indi offered me a ride on Sleuther, and I could not refuse. He then took me to visit my family."
"It's much farther than having to take a boat over to see them," Indi said.
Isak nodded. "I trust that Alva and the children are doing well?"
"Indeed," Markus said.
"Very good. Resume your duties, general."
"Of course, my king," Markus said before bowing once more and retreating into the castle.
Indi glanced at Elsa. "Hi."
"Did you have a good time?" Elsa asked.
"I'd say so," Indi said, before turning to the princess and bowing. "Princess Selma, you know the basics of dragon training, though there is still much you have to learn. Unfortunately, most of that involves riding your dragon in the air. What I want you to practice while I am gone is more commands and hand signals."
"I understand," Selma said, petting her dragon.
"You two already have a strong bond," Elsa said as Sleuther walked over and gave the queen a nuzzle. Elsa reached out and stroked Sleuther's nose. "Be sure to nurture it."
Selma nodded, rubbing her dragon's head. "I will do my best."
"That's what it will take," Indi said. "But, if you have any questions, simply send Queen Elsa or myself a message. We will answer as best we can."
"Thank you," Selma said.
The next morning, Indi was securing the bags to Sleuther's saddle. Elsa joined him, rubbing Sleuther's head.
As Indi finalized things, the doors to the castle opened and out walked the royal family, as well as General Markus and several soldiers.
"Thank you so much for coming," the Dowager Queen Isabelle said. Indi had wondered where she had disappeared but decided against thinking about it.
"It was our pleasure," Elsa said.
"Sir Indi," General Markus said. "Thank you for everything."
Indi smiled. "Of course. Give Alva and the children my best."
"I will. Pardon me if I'm being rash, but I'm glad I get to call you a friend."
Indi reached out his arm, and the general clasped each other's forearms. "And I you, as well."
Indi mounted Sleuther and helped Elsa onto the saddle behind him.
"Farewell," Elsa called out with a wave. As the people stood back, Sleuther launched himself into the air, soaring over the castle walls and out over the harbor.
The ocean air was cool and crisp and the wind blew Elsa's hair back.
"Did you have a good time?" Indi asked.
"Overall, yes," Elsa said. "Aside from the battle and all of the business with Hans, I'd say so."
"Well, that goes without saying."
Elsa wrapped her arms around Indi's torso and rested her chin on his shoulder. Indi leaned back, enjoying the feeling of her body against him.
They flew onwards for hours when Indi spotted something on the horizon. "That doesn't look good."
Elsa looked ahead and saw a massive field of storm clouds, the dark masses towering overhead. The storm stretched from one side of the horizon to the other. Over the sound of wind and the ocean, a few faint rumbles of thunder could be heard.
The storm gathered overhead as they flew. It started off as just a few drops of rain, but soon the sky darkened even more and the heavens opened up.
The downpour soaked the trio. Indi hung onto the Sleuther's horns and Sleuther flapped his wings. Elsa clung to Indi, her makeup now likely smeared and running down her face. Though she wasn't cold, the rain was still unpleasant.
They flew for hours more into the storm, longer than they felt they should have.
"Shouldn't we be seeing Arendelle by now?" Indi said, almost shouting over the storm.
"I think so," Elsa said. It was hard to judge time in the storm and riding on dragonback.
They flew onwards, and the storm only seemed to worsen. The waves beneath them churned and broiled beneath them, the water forming into massive mountains. A crack of thunder sounded out very near to them.
"Shit!" Indi shouted. A bolt of lightning ripped through the sky near them, and Sleuther instinctively dove away, and a mountain of water appeared out of the gloom.
"Hang on!" Indi shouted and he felt Elsa's arms tighten around him.
Sleuther was swept into the wave, the water surrounding them. Indi closed his eyes and lost his grip on the saddle. He felt Elsa's arms loosen from around him. Indi, now lost and in the ocean, swam to the surface. He broke through the water, and sucked in air, coughing out seawater.
"Elsa!" he called out when another wave forced him back under the water. He swam to the surface once more. "Elsa!"
"Indi!" a voice said. He swam to the right, and briefly saw the woman, barely seeing her head floating just above the water.
The pair swam to each other, only to be forced underneath by another wave. They grabbed at each other and pulled each other close, kicking their legs beath them to stay afloat.
"Where's Sleuther?" Indi said as they clung to each other.
"I don't know," Elsa said, as another wave crested over them. "Look out!"
The water crashed down on them, nearly forcing them apart once more.
They bobbed to the surface, the rain pelting them from above.
"We need to find land!" Ind shouted over the storm.
"I have no idea where we are, Indi," Elsa said and they hung onto each other.