TW: Minor depiction of a hanging.
Easing the Tension
Same Day…
Once Elsa was finally out of her father's study, she went to the castle library. She hoped spending time there to read some books would help her take her mind off of well…everything. Talking about Fritjof made her feel dreadful. Like a weight in her chest prevented her from feeling anything else.
She hated feeling that way. Back in her solitude at the Ice Palace, whenever she had thoughts of Fritjof, they would overwhelm her, rendering her nonfunctional for the day—like they mentally shut her down. She would then have to take time to coax herself out of it.
Elsa sat at a windowsill with a large book in her hands: Wondrous Copious Tales by Walter Eisner. Elsa had read this before when Anna brought it during the period of her secret visits. As the title states, this book has a collection of unique stories inspired by the various places in the world that the author himself traveled to. Elsa was unable to finish them all, but there were some tales she read that she really liked. Three favorites of hers were Pirates of the Caribbean, Jungle Cruise Expedition, and Big Thunder Mountain: The Wildest Ride in the Wilderness. Accompanying these stories was artwork depicting scenes that Elsa thought were neat.
Elsa read those particular stories, but her mood did not improve, so she continued reading the book's other tales. All were good, but she could not entirely focus on them. Elsa had finished the current story and moved to the next one: Tour of The Haunted Mansion. This is another tale that Elsa didn't get to read in this book.
The first few lines of this tale already indicate this story was not like the others here. The others had a sense of excitement & adventure. Here, the mood was calm but uneasy. This story was meant to be a scary kind.
The story is narrated by a character known as The Ghost Host, who's giving a tour of the mansion to unnamed visitors. Why would anyone even think of touring a place called The Haunted Mansion, Elsa had no clue. Nonetheless, she continued with the story. The accompanying picture showed two versions of a gallery of portraits of different individuals. The one on the top showed four simple portraits. Below are the same portraits but with expansions of them like a tombstone, explosives about to go off, two guys stacked below, or even an alligator!
"Your cadaverous pallor betrays an aura of foreboding, almost as though you sense a disquieting metamorphosis. Is this haunted room actually stretching? Or is it your imagination?" The Ghost Host hummed. "And consider this dismaying observation. This chamber has no windows and no doors." A low chuckle vibrated in the room. "Which offers you this chilling challenge. TO FIND…A WAY OUT!" A dark, cheerful laugh echoes through the chamber. "...Of course, there's always my way."
Elsa turns to the next page. She sees a skeletal body hanging from a ceiling by a rope around their neck. While it did admittedly startle her, this was far from the worst thing Elsa had seen. Elsa took a glance at the illustration again. This time, she saw Fritjof's body replacing the skeletal body. She felt some joy before rapidly blinking her eyes. The original picture was back to normal.
Elsa continued reading the story, with the visitors beginning their tour of the mansion on a 'Doombuggy,' whatever that was. Among the first stop of the tour was a library. The picture showed stacks of books with marvel busts that made it appear they were turning their heads to watch the visitors.
"Our library is well stocked with priceless first additions. Only ghost stories, of course," The Ghost Host chuckled. "And marvel busts of the greatest ghostwriters the literary world has ever known." A pause briefly followed. "They have all…retired here, to The Haunted Mansion. Actually, we have nine hundred and ninety-nine happy haunts here! But there's room for a thousand…Any volunteers?" The Ghost Host let out a hearty laugh.
"I think Fritjof would be a good pick…" Elsa thought to herself happily, then scolded herself for thinking like that.
The story continued with the visitors making their way throughout the mansion. At one point, they passed by a room with a coffin surrounded by flowers, like a funeral had taken place. A person was in the coffin, trying to push the cover off. They pleaded, 'Get me out of here,' only for their cries to be ignored.
Elsa imagined Fritjof as the (un)fortunate individual stuck there before snapping out of it.
The visitors in the story continued their tour. After passing a room where a woman's head in a glass ball made some enchantments with flying instruments, the guests passed by a ballroom where the ghosts materialized, doing all sorts of thing like dancing, hanging on a chandelier, or playing music. Two of these spirits were dueling each other with pistols in their hands.
Both dueler's face was briefly replaced with Fritjof's face before Elsa shook her head.
Then came the next room. The pictures showed several portraits of a woman called Constance Hatchaway, wearing a bride's dress next to a different man. The joining picture showed the identical portraits but with the men's heads gone. Constance stood in the center of the room of the wedding portraits, holding an ax with a devious grin on her lips.
Elsa's mind instinctively wanders. The picture slowly morphs to show Elsa in Constance's place, holding an ice ax. Fritjof's body lies near her, head unseen.
Elsa slammed the book shut, snapping herself out of those thoughts. How could she ever think of such things?
"Doesn't mean he doesn't deserve such fates." A tiny dark voice whispers in her mind. "He's an unredeemable monster who took you from your home, and abused you."
That sounded dark but…so convincing. Is it really wrong to have such thoughts? Hurting people was wrong…But could that apply to bad people who hurt others?
"There you are!" Anna's joy-filled voice whipped those dark thoughts out of Elsa's head. The young princess trotted over to her sister. "I've been looking for you. How did things go with Papa and the others?"
"It was okay," Elsa lowered her gaze.
"What did you guys talk about?" Anna sat next to her.
"Gad asked what he looked like, and Storstrand wanted to know where I was held. Nothing too crazy."
Anna glanced at the book Elsa had. "Wondrous Copious Tales? You really like this, eh?"
"I was catching up on the ones I did get to read."
"You know my personal favorite tale? Maelstrom."
"The Viking one? I've read that."
"Isn't it great?" Anna grinned excitedly
Elsa let out an unsure expression. "It's…okay."
"What do you mean, okay? It's awesome."
"It's not bad. I just think it could've been…better."
"Better? It has Vikings! Our ancestors, for crying out loud! What could be better than that?" Elsa merely shrugged. Anna let out a playful huff. "Stinker…"
"Sorry…?" Elsa responded quietly.
Anna facepalmed, waving her free hand. "No, no, it's fine. It's your taste. Not mine. I shouldn't reacted like that. Mama & Papa always told me to respect other people's opinions even if they're not the same as yours."
"It's okay."
"So, what tale were you reading?"
"Haunted Mansion."
"Oh, I know that one. Not my favorite, but it's cool."
"It's…different from the other tales."
"Yeah, it's kinda dark, but it's not the most messed up story I've read. Ever read Oedipus?" Elsa shook her head. "I thought I had problems, but that takes the cake!"
"What happens in that story?"
"You DON'T want to know. Trust me." Anna gave a shudder.
"Okay then…"
"Anyways, the other reason I was looking for you is that I was planning on going out in town for a few hours and wanted to ask if you like to tag along. To take your mind off of things."
"I guess I wouldn't mind."
"Great! Let's get going while the day is fresh."
Anna grabs Elsa's hand, practically dragging her out of the library.
The weather in Arendelle was perfect. Not a cloud in the sky. It wasn't too hot despite it being summer. The streets were moderately crowded. Busy but still left room for others. It was more than good enough for the pair of sisters.
Anna & Elsa simply walked about throughout the town. Being in her sister's presence had uplifted Elsa's mood compared to when she was discussing Fritjof. She didn't even get any more of the dark thoughts. Elsa would not let that man take more joy out of her today than he already had.
The duo of sisters walked through a marketplace. The last time Elsa was here, so many people were gathered that she didn't stick around long. Since the crowd was more thinned out today, she had the opportunity to check each stand properly. One stand that caught her interest was a flower stand.
"Interested in the flowers, are we?" Anna commented playfully.
"They're lovely," Elsa sniffed them. "And they smell lovely too."
"They're the finest flowers in Norway."
Elsa noticed a flower that had a mix of blue & purple. "What's this one?"
"I had a feeling you would ask. That one is a Blåveis," Anna shared.
"Nice to see that you haven't forgotten." The Flower Vendor strolled into the girl's view. "A pleasure to see you at my humble stand again, Princess."
"Thank you. You always have beautiful flowers."
The Flower Vendor glances at Elsa. "I don't think I've seen you around here before."
"I-I'm Joan," Elsa answered, remembering her alias name.
"She's my handmaiden. She moved here not too long ago." Anna further explained.
"Well, welcome to Arendelle, Miss Joan! You couldn't have found a better workplace than with the Princess herself!"
Anna's face let out a light flush. "Oh shucks."
"Don't sell yourself short, Princess. We appreciate all that you and your family have done. And to further show my gratitude as always…" The Flower Vendor gently plucks two strands of the Blåveis, handing each to the young women. "One free strand of Blåveis for you."
"And your generosity is appreciated, my good sir," Anna smiled back.
Elsa looked at the flower in her hand, touched by the man's kind act. "Thank you."
"You know how to make it better?" Elsa turned to Anna, who placed Elsa's flower on her ear before doing the same herself. "Now we match!"
"You didn't have to…" Elsa said to the vendor.
The Flower Vendor waved his hand. "Don't fret about it. I saw how you admired them and thought you would like a piece. Unless you want the whole pot yourself. That you would need to pay for."
Elsa moves her gaze to the pot of the Blåveis flowers. They were the perfect mix of her favorite colors, blue & purple. "They are nice. But I don't have any money."
"But I do!" Anna offered, noticing the want in her sister's eyes.
"Oh, I couldn't. You and…your parents have done so much for me already."
"We're royalty. Money wouldn't be an issue, especially for one flower pot." Anna gave a sly smile. "And…you're part of the family, so I'll happily do it. Plus, your room could use some decorating, so go for it!"
Elsa glances at Anna, then the eager-looking Flower Vendor holding the Blåveis flowers. They would look lovely in her room. And if Anna was offering…
A few minutes later, the girls were walking away from the stand. The vendor waved the girls goodbye, holding a small money bag. Anna waved back to him, walking alongside Elsa, who had a pot of Blåveis in her hand.
"Thank you, Anna. You didn't have to buy them."
"I wanted to. You deserve good things. Those Blåveis will be great for your room."
Elsa smiled at the flowers. "I never had my own flowers. I had always made ice sculptures of them because it was always snowing at The North Mountain."
"Guess that would be a downside to living on a mountain that snows year round. Not being able to grow flowers. But now you can have as many flower pots here since it's not constantly snowing like the mountain."
"Yep…Happy to be here. In the warm weather," Elsa moves away, quietly muttering. "...Away from the snow and home."
"What was that?" Anna heard the mumbling.
"Oh, nothing. Just talking to myself," Elsa gave a toothy grin.
Anna casually shrugged. "Alright then."
The pair continued their stroll. Almost every passing citizen greeted Anna. Elsa noticed how friendly and casual they were to her little sister. They talked to her like she was a dear friend. Anna was always pleasant back to them. Sometimes, she would ask them how they'd been doing, how their family was, and whatnot.
"You're really popular around here," Elsa remarked to Anna.
"I am the Crowned Princess. Makes sense if they know me well. I will be their queen one day," Anna said almost dejectedly.
"Do you want to?"
"Why wouldn't I?"
"You sound…unsure."
"It's just…I don't think I would be cut out for queen."
"Why?" Elsa was shocked to hear Anna say that about herself.
"I'm not exactly…regal like other princesses. Almost every princess I've met has this sophisticated grace. Me? I'm a bit of a klutz. And kind of awkward. And impulsive. Like, really impulsive. I do and say things without thinking. And I can't tell you how often I've gotten into trouble. But y-you probably know that, but you get it-I get it-"
"Anna." Elsa clasps Anna's arm. "I think you'll be a wonderful queen."
"You're only saying that because you're my sister."
"If you had asked me this months ago, back when I didn't know, I would still say the same thing."
"You mean it?"
Elsa nods. "You care so much for the people around you. You put others before yourself. And you've done so much for me, especially since we didn't know we were family. You could've not come back to the mountain, but you did. You took so many risks to help me. And I think you would do the same for Arendelle when you become queen. You know when to do the next right thing. So yes, I mean it when I say you'll be a great queen. And if something happens, I'll be there for you, like you were for me."
"That was so sweet of you to say." Anna let out a small smile, wiping one of her eyes. "If things were different, you would've also made a great queen."
"Thank you," Elsa said back.
"Although technically, you probably still could since you were born before me…" Anna's eyes widen at the implication of those words. "Not that I'm pushing you to be next in line! I'm still more than happy to! I'm just bringing it up because when you reveal yourself, people will be asking who'll be the next ruler-!"
"I get it. Don't worry, I'm not interested. Besides, you're more qualified than I am."
"Well…I still think you would've been a good queen."
"If things were different…maybe."
They turned a corner where Elsa caught sight of the mural of her 3-year-old self. Elsa glued her gaze to the large painting. Knowing everything she knows, she wondered why she didn't make the connection when she first saw this on Anna's birthday. That doesn't matter now, she supposes.
Then she noticed the other people looking at the mural. She could see the mournful expressions on their faces, especially the ones with young kids with them. Elsa could see the parents keeping their little ones close to them. It felt wrong not to tell everyone who she was, but she didn't feel comfortable revealing herself yet.
Elsa was brought back to reality when a delicious aroma caught her nose. It was the kind that makes you hungry for food.
"Do you smell that, Anna?"
Anna sniffed the air. Eyes light up with familiarity. "We're near Bloget's Bakery!" Anna points over to a building
"Bloget's who now?"
"Oh, right. I didn't take you there. It's a bakery. They make the best biscuits & cookies in the kingdom! Want to check it out? I know someone who works there!"
"Cookies sound nice."
The sounds of a bell rang as the duo walked in. It was reasonably busy, with several tables occupied by customers. A sweet aroma filled the air. The inside gave off a homely vibe. Already, this place had earned a good spot for Elsa.
Anna approached a counter where an employee was, who lit up when they saw her. "Princess Anna! Quite a surprise, but a welcomed one! What brings you here today?"
"I was in the neighborhood and thought I'd stop by. Is Halima in today?"
"I believe she should be in the back. I'll go fetch her if you want."
"Please."
The employee went to the back of the establishment. Anna turned her head back to Elsa, who was interested in the place. The ice wielder's eyes were filled with so much curiosity.
"You enjoying yourself?" Anna inquired.
"Oh…Yes." Elsa glanced around the room again. "This place looks and smells so nice."
Anna took another huff of air through her nose. "I wonder what they're serving today?"
"For you, Anna, whatever you want." An older woman with dark skin and graying hair tied in a low bun walked up to Anna and hugged her.
"Thanks, Halima. You're too generous."
"Like the granddaughter I never had." Halima pulled away. "How have you been? I haven't seen you since your birthday party."
"I've been doing good."
"How are your parents doing? Your father keeping up with his sleep?"
"Don't worry, he is," Anna giggled.
Halima's eyes met Elsa's. "I see you have a new friend with you."
"This is Joan. She's my handmaiden and recently moved here. Joan, this is Halima."
"Nice to meet you, Joan," Halima offered a handshake with a friendly smile.
Something about this woman was familiar to Elsa, but she couldn't pinpoint what. Nonetheless, Elsa accepted the gesture. "It's nice to meet you too, Miss Halima."
"Please, you can call me Halima." She turns her attention back to Anna. "Now, what can fix up for you today?"
"Why not ask Joan that?" Anna nudges Elsa.
"Me?" Elsa exclaimed.
"Yes, you."
"But…I-I don't know what they have here!" Elsa stammered.
"They have cookies and chocolate-based stuff. I know you like those," Anna insisted.
"And we have plenty of that," Halima promised. "What could I start you with?"
"I…I do like cookies," Elsa answered after a few seconds.
"Any favorites?"
"I…Not really. Do you have suggestions?"
Halima pondered for a moment before her eyes lit up. "Give me a moment, please."
Halima went in the back. A minute later, she returned holding a small box of yellow cookies. Elsa took a quick sniff, letting out a pleased hum.
"What are those? They smell wonderful."
"Butter Cookies. They're a best seller here, along with our Butter Biscuits. And baked fresh. Would you like to try one?"
"You have to, Joan. You'll love them!" Anna insisted with an eager grin.
"If you say so."
Elsa took a cookie from the box. She gave a small bite, chewing the treat to let it settle with her taste buds. Her mouth then stops moving, eyes going wide. Her mind getting sucked back into a memory she had long buried.
December 22nd, 1820
The bell rang as the door leading into the bakery opened, and a family of three walked in. Not just any family. King Agdar, Queen Idun, and Princess Elsa in her mother's arms. Little Elsa was crawling over her mother, grabbing her crown and trying to put on.
"Look, mama! I'm a queen like you!" The little girl exclaimed.
"Yes, Little Snow, but behave yourself now. We're visiting a friend of Mama & Papa." Idun lightly instructed, reclaiming her crown.
"Is this the big birthday surprise you & Papa have for me?"
"No, dear. That won't come until later."
"But I want it now!"
"Just be patient a little longer. I promise you'll love it." Idun softly encouraged, using her other hand to pat the small bump on her stomach that Elsa didn't seem to notice.
From the side, Agdar couldn't help but smile at his girls.
"Agdar! Idun!" Halima strolled over to the monarchs. The king pulled the older woman into a hug.
"Hey, Halima. It's good to see you. Sorry if our visit seems abrupt."
"Nonsense. I'm always happy to see you, my boy." Halima turns to the queen. "Good to see you too, Idun."
"You as well."
"And you must be Elsa." Halima smiled at the girl. "My my, you've gotten big since I last saw you!"
"It's my birthday today! I'm 3 years old!" Little Elsa excitedly exclaimed, holding up three fingers.
"Happy birthday to you!" Halima turns to Agdar. "I'm assuming that's why you're here today?"
"We thought a stroll through Arendelle would be a nice birthday outing for her and decided to stop by here."
"And certainly not an excuse for you to get Butter Cookies?" Idun added with a playful grin.
"...Maybe that, too," Agdar's cheeks let out a flush.
Halima lightly chuckled. "Well, we have plenty of those."
"I want cookies!" Elsa proclaimed, looking at her papa. "Can I have some cookies, papa?"
"Whatever you like, Snowflake," Agdar boops her nose with his finger, making her giggle.
Minutes later, the little princess sat at one of the tables, munching on a small plate of Butter Cookies with a box next to it, while her parents & Halima stood close by.
"These are yummy cookies, Miss Halima!" Elsa took another bite.
"Thank you," Halima responded.
Elsa finished her plate. She then tried to grab some more from the box.
"Don't eat all those cookies, Elsa!" Idun gently warned her daughter.
"Aw, don't fret yourself, love. It's her birthday. Let the kid have some fun," Agdar chided back.
"I see Elsa inherited your love for Butter Cookies, Agdar," Halima commented.
"You should see her when she has chocolate," Agdar said lightheartedly. "Since Elsa is occupied, we want to tell you something. It's another reason for our visit."
"Oh? What is it?"
"Elsa?" The princess' head turned to her papa's direction. "Can you please stay at the table?"
"Yes, papa!"
Elsa focused back on the cookies. The three adults moved several feet away. From the corner of her eye, she watches her parents talk to Halima under their breaths.
"-Another one?! That's wonderful!" Halima suddenly exclaimed happily before the monarchs gently hushed her, nudging over to Elsa.
"Not so loud. She doesn't know yet," Idun whispered.
"It's a surprise birthday gift for her," Agdar specified with a low tone.
Halima apologized and lowered her tone.
The older woman hugged Idun and glanced at her bump. All three adults continued to talk in whispers. Little Elsa merely shrugged it off and continued munching on her cookies.
Elsa swallowed the cookie down. Her sister and Halima kept their gazes locked on her.
"Did you like it?" Elsa answered her sister's question by hastily shoving the rest of the cookie into her mouth, savoring the taste. "I'll take that as a yes..."
Halima let out a chuckle. "I can see that someone is a fan. And I thought Aggie was crazy for Butter Cookies."
"Aggie?" Elsa quirked her brow.
"Pardon me. I meant Agdar. Aggie is a nickname I used to call back when he was a kid. Sometimes, I fall back into the habit."
"You're friends with Pa-… King Agdar?"
"He's pretty much family to me. My late fiance used to be his bodyguard when he was a kid."
"Bodyguard?"
"Lieutenant Mattias," Anna revealed. "I showed you his portrait. The one next to King Runeard's."
"Oh…" Elsa remembered the details of how they both perished in a battle. She also recalls that fiance means that that person was getting married to their boyfriend/girlfriend, meaning Halima and Mattias were that close. "Anna and the king told me a bit about Mattias. I'm sorry for what happened to him. From what they told me, he sounded like a great man."
"I appreciate your sympathy. Losing Destin was hard, but I've been better about it now," Halima said with a smile.
Elsa had another question for her. "Were Mattias and…the king close?"
Halima nods. "He & Agdar often went everywhere together. Sometimes, I would tag along. Destin always treated Agdar kindly. Looking back, I think Destin saw him as a son." Halima's expression dampened. "After what happened with him & King Runeard, I did everything possible to help Agdar. I may have lost the love of my life, but the poor boy went through far worse than me, not only with the loss of two father figures but also with being a child king. It was a rough time for him. I tried to offer my support as best as possible but couldn't always be there. I feared he would shut himself out, but he met Idun soon after and got better. I think she helped him a lot. They often like to visit me, and in a way, they became like my own children. They don't visit as often because of their duties, but we still meet occasionally."
"That sounds so sweet," Elsa wiped one of her eyes, trying not to cry from the sweetness.
Halima's expression turned grim. "I only wish life treated them kindly with what happened…"
"To Princess Elsa?" Halima jerked her head up, surprised to hear that answer. "Anna told me about her too."
Halima gave a lingering gaze, blinking a few times. "You know…You kinda remind me of her."
"O-Oh I do?" Elsa stammered.
Halmia placed her hand on her forehead. "I-I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to project on you like that."
"It's alright, Halima. Joan knows you didn't mean any harm," Anna reassured her.
"Yeah, it's okay. From what I heard, I could see that I have some resemblance to her." Elsa did her best to not cringe through her words.
"Thank you, but enough about that. Do you want to try anything else here?"
"I think these cookies will do."
"Then the whole box is yours!"
"Could you also make another for papa?" Anna requested.
"Don't worry, I will. Along with the Strawberry Danish for your mother. Should I make your usual two Chocolate Croissants?
"Yes, please." A pause lingered for a few seconds before Anna added. "Actually, Make it four."
"Four? This close to your dinner time? What would your parents think?" Halima lightly scolded.
"…IF they find out," Anna lifted her index finger, giving a wink.
Halima let out a unsure hum. One prolonged look of Anna's puppy eyes persuaded her to answer. "Alright. If is good." She complied, shaking her head with a smile.
"You're the best, Halima!"
Both girls found themselves on a bench at the town square, eating their respective bakery treats. It was early evening at that point. The square wasn't crowded, save for a small one gathered by street performers playing soothing music.
"Don't eat all your cookies. Mama wouldn't like it if you ate sweets before dinner," Anna lightly scolded as Elsa took another cookie.
"But it's okay for you to have four chocolate croissants?" Elsa quipped back.
"Y-Yes! But that's totally different!" Anna ate the last of her second croissant.
"Different, how?"
"It just is, okay!" Anna said in between chewing. Elsa let out a laugh.
Anna finishes munching on her second croissant in silence, starting on the third. At the same time, Elsa takes in the scenery around them. Her mind wanders back to Halima.
"That Halima was nice. I can see why you and Papa & Mama like her."
"I'm glad you finally met her," Anna mumbled between bites.
"Actually, I already met her."
"You did?" Anna replied, cheeks puffed out like a squirrel when she started on her last croissant.
"My last birthday here before I was…taken. You were in Mama's belly. My big birthday surprise." Anna slowly swallowed the last of her treat. "Our parents took me to the bakery. I don't remember much, but I could see how well they got along with her. They treated her like she was their family."
"Same case with me. Halima would visit the castle when I was little. When I started going to town more often, I would visit her sometimes." Anna paused. "You know, I really thought she was my grandmother for the longest time."
"Really now?" Elsa quirked her brow.
"I was a kid. I didn't have the concept of why that wasn't possible."
Both girls let out a giggle. Elsa's smile then turns to a frown.
"I wish I didn't have to hide who I am from her."
"Me too," Anna confessed, placing a comforting touch on her shoulder. "It won't be forever. We don't want to rush things with you. She'll understand, and so will Arendelle."
"I know," Elsa breathes out, keeping her gaze lowered.
Anna decided to change the topic. "You know, hanging out today…brings me back to the old days."
"What old days?" Elsa said in bewilderment.
"Back when I would sneak out of the castle at night to see you. You & I hanging out, with no one else knowing."
"It wasn't just both of us…"
"I guess you can count Olaf, Marshmallow, and The Snowgies. They are your family. Darn me."
"Yep…They've always stuck around the Ice Palace. They're probably still there right now while I'm down here. Away from them…The Mountain."
Anna notices Elsa's sudden dejection in her voice and body slouching. "Is everything okay with you?"
"It's nothing…"
"Uh, clearly not, since you're sounding sad. Come on now. What's eating you?"
Elsa let out a defeated breath, hugging herself. "It's selfish..."
"What's selfish, Elsa? Don't shut me out now."
"I-I…I miss the mountain," Elsa confessed, almost choking up. "I love the castle, and I love this kingdom. It's a wonderful place, and I'm happy to be back, but…I miss my Ice Palace. I miss being surrounded by the fresh air & natural snow. And I miss my family up there...I miss Olaf's smile. I miss patrolling with Marshmallow. I miss playing with The Snowgies." Elsa let out a sniffle.
"How long have you been feeling this way?"
"A few weeks..."
"Oh, Elsa… Why didn't you tell me, or Mama & Papa?"
"Because it's selfish. I'm back safe here. I should be grateful to be back home. I don't understand why I'm feeling this way."
"Because you're homesick…" Anna concluded.
"Homesick?" Elsa exclaimed in confusion. "Arendelle's my home. Where I was born."
"But you haven't spent a good decade in Arendelle like you have on The North Mountain," Anna laid it out firmly. Elsa jerked her head in her sister's direction. "You lived on there for ten years, Elsa. All that time, it's been your only home. Your sanctuary. I think it's reasonable that you would hold sentimental value to that place. It's not selfish for you to miss it. I'm sure Mama & Papa would understand if you visited there."
A pregnant pause briefly followed. Anna's eyes lit up, releasing a low gasp. "…And maybe they can come with you!"
"What?" Elsa uttered as Anna clasped her hands.
"We can take Mama & Papa up to the mountain. Show them the Ice Palace! Oh, and we can introduce Olaf and the others to them!"
"I'm not sure how our parents will handle them…"
"Kristoff and I manage to get along with your snow family. Mama & Papa will love them too! And they'll love the Ice Palace! Don't you think it's a great idea? You'll see your home again, and everyone can all bond together!"
"That does sound nice…"
Elsa would lie to herself if she said she hadn't hoped to show her family her home and snow creations one day. Sometimes, she daydreamed of Olaf wandering around the castle halls, greeting everyone. Marshmallow scaling the castle roofs, making sure there's no danger coming, or simply spending time in the castle gardens enjoying the serenity of it. And she could see The Snowgies getting into all kinds of mischief but bringing joy. Most of all, she can see both of her families getting along together.
"I want to do it," Elsa declared.
"Sweet! I'll talk it over with our parents when we get back. I know they have their duties, but we can work something out. Then, when the day comes, you could get a headstart to the mountain, and the rest of us here will meet up with you later. It'll give you a chance to prepare the others."
"Yeah, Marshmallow would probably freak out if someone besides you & Kristoff suddenly showed up…"
"Definitely. Don't want a repeat of your first meeting with Kristoff. Yeesh, that was crazy."
"Oh yeah." Elsa let out a nervous chuckle, recalling that memory. She then turns her face to meet Anna's. Without warning, the ice wielder pulled her into a hug. "Thank you, Anna. This means a lot to me."
Anna smiles back at her. "You're my sister. I would do anything for you."
The sounds of the street performers' music piece slowly concluded. People watching let out applause or threw coins into a jar. The musicians started rearranging themselves. One of them was a younger man with a lute, moving himself to the front of the band. Anna's eyes brightened with recognition.
"I know that guy. He's a great singer. The songs he sings are always bangers."
"Bangers?"
"Damn good music. Shh! They're starting."
The musicians started playing their pieces at a slow, steady rhythm. The young man in front strummed the strings of his lute.
"To all things housed in her silence
Nature offers a violence
The bear that keeps to his own line
The wolf that seeks out his own kind..."
As Anna said, the man's voice sounded stunning. It was soothing but strong. The musicians slowly picked up the pace as the man went on singing.
"The world that hardens as the harsher winter holds
The parent forced to eat its young before it grows
Every bird, gone unheard
Starving where the ground has froze
The winter sunrise, red on white
Like blood upon the snow…"
The lyrics sounded so ominous, yet there was something beautiful about them. Elsa continued to listen.
"The ground walked here is a wonder
It ceases never to hunger
And all things nature's given
She takes all things back from the living..."
"I've walked the earth and there are so few here that know
How dark the night and just how cold the wind can blow
I've no more hunger now to see where the road will go
I've no more kept my warmth
Than blood upon the snow…
Blood upon the snow."
"It's not my arms that will fail me
But this world takes more strength than it gave me
The trees deny themselves nothing that makes them grow
No rainfall, no sunshine
No blood upon the snow
Blood upon the snow."
The musicians gradually increase the volume of their instruments, including the singer with his lute. This went on for several more seconds before the musicians slowly died down one by one until the singer was the last one playing. He sang out the final verse.
"To all things housed in her silence
Nature offers a violence…"
The audience watched and gave tremendous applause. Anna and Elsa joined in. The singer got up and gave a humble bow as some people threw money at him. Elsa thought that the song was haunting but also beautiful. Something about it resonated with her. There was a sense of sadness in that song but the way the man sang it brought a sense of inspiration. Like the message was saying no matter how hard things are, never give up.
Much like Elsa has been doing for so long. And it looks like it finally paying off.
"...And if Mama & Papa ask you, I only had two croissants, not four."
"Wouldn't that be lying?"
"Yyyyyess…But sometimes lying is okay. What our parents don't know won't kill 'em."
"I guess."
Anna and Elsa stroll down the hall in search of their parents. Not only did Anna want to give her parents the bakery treats she had gotten, but she also wanted to discuss her idea of all of them visiting The North Mountain. The first stop was the study. Sure enough, they could hear the voices of both Idun and Agdar mumbling through the door.
"...I should tell them. No, I need to tell them. They deserve to know. Considering all the hassle I gave you, Agdar, it would be hypocritical of me not to. I don't know how."
"We'll find the right time, love. It'll be fine."
"Sounds like Mama & Papa are talking about something important," Elsa stated to Anna, who gave a careless shrug.
"Eh, it's probably a land dispute between some farmers again."
"Does that happen a lot?"
"More than you think." Anna used her signature five knocks on the door. "Special delivery for two great parents~!"
"Come in," Agdar called from in.
The two young women entered the study. Agdar was at his desk with several parchments of paper scattered, along with a glass of wine. Idun sat across from him, wearing her red shawl around her shoulders with one of the papers in her hand.
"Woah. You two look like you have a lot on your hands," Anna commented when she saw the state of the desk.
"Just writing some letters, sweetheart. Your mother is helping me review them," Agdar explained.
"What were you two up to today?" Idun inquired, setting down the letter.
"We spent the afternoon in town. Anna got me flowers." Elsa showed her parents the Blåveis in her hands.
"Blåveis," Agdar uttered out.
Elsa nods. "Anna thought they would be nice in my room."
"They are lovely." Idun agreed.
"We also stopped by Bloget's Bakery and got you some things." Anna handed her parents boxes of treats that she had gotten. "Courtesy of Halima. She says hello."
Agdar opened the box lid, taking a quick sniff and a pleased hum. "Butter Cookies."
"I got some of my own too, Papa." Elsa shows her own box of the same cookies.
"Did you, now?"
"They are delicious. Like they were when I tried them on my 3rd birthday."
"You actually remember that?" Agdar was surprised to hear that, along with Idun.
"Bits & pieces of it. They were sweet. So was Halima, both now and back then. I can see why you both were close to her. She told me how you both visited her while you & mama were kids."
"She was always kind to us," Iduna took a bite of her Danish. "And made great sweets. Thank you again, Anna."
"You know me. Showing my appreciation for you."
"And not trying to bribe us to not ask if you bought four chocolate croissants again?" Agdar casually took a drink from his wine glass.
"What?!…erm, I mean, of course not! I bought two like always." Both of her parents remain unconvinced. "Elsa! Vouch for me here!"
"Uh…she only got two. And only two…" Elsa tried to give her best combing smile.
Agdar & Idun gave each other a look that lingered for several seconds. "If you say so," Agdar responded, much to Anna's relief.
"Elsa, why don't you get settled with your flowers while I talk to Mama and Papa about my idea?" Anna suggested to her.
"Okay." Elsa walked out of the room, leaving the rest of the royal family alone.
Anna then took the time to explain Elsa's crisis to her parents. Excluding any mention of the living snowmen, Anna went on about how Elsa missed her home on The North Mountain. How much she felt conflicted about it. "...She kept this to herself for weeks because she didn't want to look ungrateful. She is happy to be here but misses her old home."
"Poor dear," Idun uttered out. "I was so happy having Elsa back here that I forgot she lived on that mountain for so long. That place was her safe haven."
"It would make sense why she would miss it. We would never think she would be selfish for feeling this way," Agdar assured. "If Elsa wants to go over there, she's more than welcome as long as she lets us know."
"That's another thing I want to mention." Her parents look attentively at Anna. "I was thinking that maybe…we ALL go."
"To the mountain?" Agdar clarified.
"Yep! I think it would be perfect. Me, Elsa, and you both. Just the four of us. Not only would it allow us to spend time as a family, but you can also see where Elsa's been living for ten years. I know you're curious about it."
"I have been wondering about her home. I would like to see it. And I would like some time away from the castle. I for one would like some fresh air," Idun turns to her husband. "Wouldn't you think so, love?"
"Time away from royal life would be nice…But The North Mountain is far & remote…" Agdar trailed off.
"Hey, you forget I've frequently visited her at the mountain for four months," Anna said with pride to her father.
"You mean how you often snuck out of the castle and into the darkness of night without informing me or your mother?" Agdar sternly pointed out
"A conversation that we still need to have, by the way," Idun added.
"Yep…" Anna let out an awkward toothy grin before clearing her throat. "Back on topic, it would mean so much to Elsa if you could see it. Don't you agree?"
Agdar looked at his wife, who he can see that she's silently agreeing. "I…I suppose I could arrange something. Perhaps I could clear our schedule for next weekend." Agdar proposed.
"I think that would be perfect," Idun said in agreement.
"Really?" Anna beamed
"Yes. That should give us plenty of time to take care of things." Agdar turns to Anna. "And enough for you to plan."
"Me? Plan? Wait, you're trusting me to be in charge of this?"
"I don't see why not. This is your idea. I believe you can do it."
Anna went over to her Papa to hug him. "Thank you so much, papa! This is going to be great! Elsa is going to be so happy. I got to tell her the great news." Anna then ran out of the study, yelling, "You guys are amazing!"
Agdar let out a small smile. He turns to see his wife giving him a grin. "Why are you staring at me like that?"
"You've changed a lot. I couldn't imagine you trusting Anna like that a couple of months ago." Idun noted.
"I see now how capable Anna is. While she may hide things from us, she has a good heart. I know she will be a great queen for this kingdom one day," Agdar proclaimed with pride. "She still needs to work on her masking skills, however."
"Because you know she bought four chocolate croissants?"
"Clearly. Really should talk to Halima about that."
"Don't be so hard on her. Halima only means well."
"I know." Agdar let out a pause. "I should pay a visit to her sometime. Didn't really get much chance to talk to her at Anna's birthday."
"Do you think…we should let Halima in on Elsa?" Idun questioned.
Agdar let out a breath, placing his fingers on his forehead. He wanted nothing more than to tell the woman who had been there for him in the years following the loss of his father. He wished he summoned her when he told Storstrand, Gad, and Ruud about Elsa. Then again, he was more focused on people working in the castle than out.
"Not for the time being, as much as it hurts me to say. I cannot risk people on the outside finding out who Elsa is before she is ready," Agdar told his wife. "Maybe once Elsa is more comfortable, we can tell Halima before revealing Elsa to the public."
"That makes sense." Idun agreed reluctantly.
"I don't want to hide it from her, especially after everything she's done for us. It may hurt her, but she's an understanding woman."
"You're right," Idun breathed out. "We should really visit her soon."
"We should. Until then, we have a weekend family outing to look forward to, too."
"After we write these letters," Idun gestured to the letters on Agdar's desk.
"Ah, right, those…I suppose you wouldn't want to write the The Southern Isles one?"
"Oh now. I'm leaving that to you, dear husband."
"In that case, I'm going to need more wine."
Idun could only shake her head in amusement.
July 1821
Agdar sat on the bench in the castle gardens, taking in the sights around him. The warm summer sun shone down, and a gentle breeze shifted in the air. Ducks were swimming in the pond. The king moved his gaze upon the sleeping infant in his arms.
Almost a whole month has passed since Anna was born. A month since he became a father again. Five months since Elsa was snatched away. Agdar fought the urge to let tears fall. He would not ruin this peaceful moment by crying. He also did not want to disturb his baby daughter.
"Agdar?" Idun approached him from the side, giving him a kiss.
"Hello, love," Agdar greeted her back with a kiss.
"Everything okay out here with you two?"
"Anna and I are doing fine." He smiled down to his daughter. "Is there something you need?"
"Someone's here to see you."
"Who? I wasn't expecting anyone today."
Idun stepped to the side, revealing that Halima was behind her.
"Hello Agdar." The older woman greeted him with a sad smile, sitting next to him on the bench and pulling him into a hug. "It's good to see you."
Agdar used his free arm to hug her back while ensuring Anna was still comfortable with his other. "It's good to see you, Halima." He pulled away after a few moments. "Not that I'm complaining, but what are you doing here?"
"Idun asked me to come here," Halima confessed.
"Of course she did," Agdar smiled at his wife, whose cheeks flustered.
Halima brought her eyes to the infant in Agdar's arms. "This must be the new royal baby."
"This is Anna. She was born on the Solstice."
"She's beautiful."
"Thank you," Agdar said back. "How have you been?"
"I should be asking you both that question," Halima gently retorted.
"We're…we're doing a little better," Idun responded, grasping Agdar's shoulders from behind.
"Compared to a few months ago," Agdar added somberly.
Halima took notice of the expression she was making. One that showed unimaginable grief. The last time Agdar had made such a face was when he was 14 years old after losing his father & Mattias. She gently grasps Agdar's arm, keeping eye contact with him & Idun.
"I…I'm so sorry about Elsa." Halima managed to express.
"T-Thank you," Agdar responded.
"Are you really okay, Agdar? I've been hearing whispers. I never listened to them, but…I can't help but worry."
"What kind of whispers?"
"That you almost killed a man…"
"There might be some truth to that..." Agdar could feel Idun's grip on him getting firmer as he lowered his head with shame. "A member of the guard was part of Elsa's kidnapping. He tried to escape. I confronted him and…I was blinded by rage. I beat him to a bloody pulp. Would've killed him in cold blood if Idun hadn't stopped me."
"Agdar…" Halima breathed out in disbelief. She couldn't fathom the mere image of Agdar doing such a thing.
"I know it's hard to believe, but it's the truth. I almost became a monster."
"You're no monster, Agdar. What you did, I don't condone, but I understand. And I know you well enough to know you regret it."
"I told him the same thing," Idun commented.
"And I'm forever grateful for you telling me that," Agdar said.
Right at that moment, Baby Anna woke up from her nap. She let out a whine, indicating some discomfort. Agdar gently rocked her in his arms.
"Hello, little one. Did you sleep well?"
Anna settled down. She cooed at the sight of her parents, reaching her arms out to them. Idun leaned down, waving her index finger to her daughter, whispering sweet things. Agdar smiled at his wife, then back down to the baby.
"She seems like a sweet little thing," Halima commented.
"She is. She manage bring back some light back into our lives," Idun shared.
Anna then notices the older woman.
"That's Halima. She's a friend of Papa & Mama." Agdar said to Anna.
The infant started to reach her little arms out to the woman, cooing happily as she did.
"Hello." Halima greeted with a smile.
"Seems like she wants to meet you," Idun stated. "Would you like to hold her, Halima?"
"Is that okay with both of you?"
"I-..." Agdar stammered. He trusted Halima, but that voice in his head said don't. One reassuring look from Idun was enough to convince him. "Yes."
Agdar gently places Anna into Halima's arms. He constantly makes sure that the baby is safely secure, double-checking and even triple-checking. Halima is understandably patient with him. With all that taken care of, Hailma brings her attention to the princess.
"It's nice to finally meet you, little one." Anna kept reaching out, excited to see a new face. "I can see she'll be a friendly one. She's so sweet."
"That she is. She is a bit fussy. More than Elsa was," Idun shared.
"Well, if you need any help, I'll be willing to do so," Halima promised.
"That's greatly appreciated," Agdar said with a grateful smile.
5 Months ago...
Halima had been manning the front counter at the bakery. Customers came and went, wanting a fresh, toasty treat to warm themselves on this cold February day. She was in the middle of talking to a customer when the entrance of the bakery door slammed open. Halima had an annoyed scowl, only to be replaced with bewilderment when she saw a distraught Idun. Everyone in the bakery had their eyes glued to her.
"Is that the Queen?"
"What is she doing here?"
"She looks anxious. Did something happen?"
Halima dropped what she was doing and went straight to her. "Idun. What's the matter?"
"It's Anna...She's missing," Idun revealed, causing most patrons to let out collective shock gasp. Halima's heart almost stopped hearing those words.
"What do you mean missing? What happened?"
"She went out for a ride on her horse. He came back all covered claw marks from wolves. I think she went into the deep woods. Agdar is putting together a search party. He sent me to find volunteers who want help."
"Damn right, we want to help!" A man voiced up.
"Yeah, definitely," a woman followed.
"My muffins can wait! This is more important!" The customer Halima was talking with moments earlier said.
"And I'll help too," Halima promised.
"Thank you," Idun breathed out.
Soon, most of the people in the bakery were flocking out, eager to join the search. Halima stayed by Idun's side as they continued to obtain volunteers. The older woman could see the worry on the Queen's face.
"We'll find her. Anna is strong," Halima reassured.
"What if we don't?" Idun blubbered out. "Agdar, he-"
"We won't know until we look out there."
"You're right. I can't think like this."
Halima, along with dozens of Arendellians, spent hours searching for any trace of Anna. During the search, she barely talked to Agdar. She could see his worry. The search had to be put to an abrupt end once a blizzard rolled in, forcing everyone to seek shelter back in their homes.
Later that night, Halima knelt at her bedside, hands clasped together, eyes closed. A lone candle lit up her bedroom. The haunting sounds of the blizzard echoed in her room, but she was not disturbed. She let out a prayer.
"Dear Lord, hear my prayer. Watch over Anna. Please let her come home safely. Don't take her away from Agdar & Idun. They've been through enough tragedy in their lives. Don't give them another one."
Her prayers were finally answered three days later when she saw the windmill keeper running through the streets, proclaiming Anna had been found. Soon, everyone saw the princess riding alongside her ice harvester friend on his reindeer, surrounded by the royal guards, including the captain.
Halima had never let out a bigger breath of relief in her life. For once, a tragedy had been averted. Now, she can only hope that more good things will come for the royal family.
Me: *looks at this fic in one hand* *looks down the Frozen 2 lore in the other*. I know what I need to do. *puts them in a blender and mixes them up. Dumps the result out* ...I think it looks good!
Maelstrom fans please don't come after me. I miss that ride too..
*looks at the word count being over 9,000+ words...* Well I did keep saying that I should write longer chapters.
If you're wondering, the song mention here is Blood Upon the Snow from God of War: Ragnarök. I believe it applies well to the theme of this fic (and the themes from that game series is totally not relevant for this fic *shifty eyes*).
I haven't read any of the Frozen novels but among them keep mentioned a shop called Bloget's Bakery. Its known for their Butter Biscuits & Cookies. And I read somewhere the Halima (the woman that Mattias dated) worked there. I could not find any info online that confirmed or denied this. If I'm wrong, someone please let me know.
Speaking of Halima, I always figure since she and Mattias were clearly an item before he got trapped in the forest, Agdar/Agnarr would've known her. And I do want to think they kept in contact in the following years (personally headcanon her being a motherly figure to him). Anna seemed to know Halima since Mattias asked about her in Frozen 2. I acknowledge that it may come across as retconning, but I really am doing my best to tie in Frozen 2 lore here (believe me, that movie has given me ideas of where to take this fic).
As of this month (July 2024) this fic is now 7 years old. I want to take a moment to give my thanks & gratitude to those who support this story. I hope you all like what's to come. And if you haven't noticed, I'm also in the process of revising all of the chapters in this story (editing mistakes & minor story tweaks). As of right now, the first 16 chapters have gone through this.
Next Chapter: Royal Family Fluffiness!
Thanks for the favs, follows, and reviews.