bigfrozenfan-fanfics - Tumblr blog

bigfrozenfan-fanfics · 7 days

Text

Chapter 79 - Corona

Links: Chapter overview, Character list, Map, Glossar Rating: M over all Publishing cycle: around every 2-3 weeks

Not much seemed to have changed; Fabian thought to himself as he walked through the narrow streets of Corona, glancing up at the castle repeatedly. At least some of the high towers with the onion domes were always visible from almost anywhere in the city, making it easier to find the way there. The sun was high and the domes shone in their bright green colour. Some of the castle's side extensions looked so impossibly cramped that you couldn't help but wonder what the rooms behind them looked like. Did anyone live there at all or were they just rooms for storing precious things, with a small window for a view of the city below and to let in some light?

Fabian had never been to the castle himself, not even on the days of civic occasions, for regular audiences with their Majesties or simply for court hearings and other official occasions. However, today would be the very first time this would change for him and he was already quite excited and curious at the thought of it. He walked on slowly and curiously, taking in the impressions of the city and refreshing his memories.

youtube

Here in Corona, no two houses were the same and almost without exception they were all lovingly decorated, had specially shaped windows and front doors and some roofs were covered with tiles while others were elaborately decorated with several layers of thatch and often a small turret in between. In the lower part of the town, where he was currently standing, the buildings were mostly lower, usually with shops of various kinds inside and offering at most one storey above. Further up the hill and on the right-hand side of the island, there were buildings with up to three levels and wider streets, as far as he could remember.

The further Fabian progressed into the town, the busier it became and he often struggled to find his way among all the people. Many of them were carrying their shopping home or were at work in front of the shops, florists lined the paths and offered all kinds of flowers, plants and herbs on artistically crafted carts or in front of the shop windows. Fabian couldn't help but inhale the beguiling scent. The noise level also increased the further he progressed. Laughing children ran towards him, mothers often followed with loud admonishing voices and raised index fingers and, last but not least, the unmistakable music of flutes, lutes, violins and drums once again cast a spell over him.

An old memory suddenly appeared before his inner eye and he saw himself as a child standing with his father in the large market square, with the round fountain in the centre, cheering and clapping to the musicians, even dancing with the other children. That must be where the music was coming from and he followed the sounds in a sudden rush. Above him, garlands of flowers hung down over the street and colourful pennants with Corona's emblem, the sun. He knew this song and would not miss out on the coming experience for the world.

Fabian remembered and now knew exactly where he was going and where to turn. Then he had reached the place where the musicians were playing, but it was not the market square with the fountain on it, but the semi-circular square in front of the church, on which the oversized sun symbol was emblazoned with white cobblestones.

It was almost like back then and he watched with great joy as many people danced and jumped to the sounds of the music in a circle around the sun symbol, while the spectators all around clapped their hands rhythmically. It was a moment of pure joy and Fabian couldn't help but clap along loudly, smiling ear to ear. The next moment, for some unknown reason, he had caught the attention of two young female dancers and, laughing, they pulled him into the circle of dancers. It was a good thing that he had observed their dance steps carefully and, in the end, his training as a fencer probably helped him too; he thought as he joined the circle and danced along. The rhythm pulled him with it and at some point all the dancers raised their hands in the air and clapped to the increasing speed of the music.

Fabian felt free and at home, clapping and jumping around the circle with people he didn't even know and didn't want to stop, it was so much fun. Then the dance got even faster. The dancers ran and jumped through the circle of the sun below them and pulled him along with them, laughing. He couldn't help it and tried to keep up as best he could. The clapping above their heads grew louder and louder. Fabian spun around on his own axis and left no doubt about his joy. The joyful faces that gazed back at him as he spun around even intensified the great feeling inside him. The dance finally ended with loud applause and cheers and many of the dancers even hugged each other afterwards.

When Fabian finally caught his breath, he wondered and hoped at the same time that this hadn't been a dance competition. He laughed out loud at himself as he walked on, but this time to the fountain he remembered. Exhausted, he sat down on the edge, dipped his hands in the cool water and slapped his sweaty face. He still had a broad smile on his lips, which some of the bystanders also returned.

Fabian wondered what would have become of him if he hadn't had to flee back then, if this unspeakable incident with his father's death had never happened. Of course, he wouldn't be alive today anyway, but would he have joined in the dance just now or at least clapped enthusiastically to him? Fabian's expression had changed back at these thoughts and instead showed thoughtfulness. His gaze wandered around and finally caught on a nearby mural. It showed a happy-looking young woman with an equally young man beside her, and standing behind them were King Frederic and Queen Ariana with their hands on their shoulders.

Was this the missing member of the royal family? Fabian remembered a day that was repeated every year and on which the king and his wife had ordered thousands of lanterns to be released into the sky at night. If Fabian was not mistaken, this was supposed to be a sign for their daughter so that she could find her way home again one day. So that there on the wall had to be the missing Rapunzel and apparently she had found her way back to her parents after all. Fabian nodded to himself. If he was lucky, he would be facing her in the castle today.

His stomach grumbled and reminded him at that moment that he hadn't eaten very much during the days on the ship. Moreover, it was no comparison to the food here in Corona. He somehow missed that flavour and even Arendelle couldn't offer him that, the two kingdoms were too different when it came to culinary delights. He looked around and tried to remember the way to a good tavern. But his steps surprisingly led him straight to the Brotherhood's fencing school

Why the heck did I end up here of all places; he asked himself and looked around in alarm. Being discovered and recognised now would not be very helpful, quite the opposite. He walked quickly into the next best alleyway and a good distance further on. However, this path led away from his destination, the royal palace. Fabian was about to turn back or look for another route when a very familiar scent wafted around his nose. He followed it and finally stood in front of what he had been looking for — the tavern. Without much hesitation, he entered and sat down at a free table. Now, at lunchtime, the place should be more crowded, but he had ended up in the east of the city, away from the busy parts of Corona.

Fabian shrugged his shoulders, took the menu that the landlord offered him as he walked past and took the opportunity to order a drink whose flavour he could barely remember — a cold beer. Then he read through the menu and came across a dish that made his mouth water. He ordered sausages with sauerkraut and a portion of grilled pork. While he waited, he looked around. It was a little dark in here but not uncomfortable. Only a few guests were present and he avoided eye contact with them.

Shortly afterwards, the landlord had two plates in his hands, one of which he placed next to Fabian and the other next to a guest at the next table. The aroma wafting towards Fabian was spicy and he guessed it was the chilli dish that was on the menu with a little warning. Well, let's see how that turns out, he grinned to himself.

As he savoured the first few bites of his delicious meal, he heard a startled gasp next to him. Fabian had been right in his assumption, because the other guest was waving air into his wide-open mouth with both hands, panting loudly and his face was bright red. His ears seemed to be burning up and the next moment he drained his tankard of beer in one go. Then, waving desperately at the innkeeper, he croaked for another glass of beer.

“Perhaps you'd better eat dry bread to counteract the spiciness,” Fabian half whispered, “and don't drink anything liquid. That just makes it worse, you know?” Then he had to laugh out loud at the astonished face this guest made, quickly changing his order and asking for half a loaf of bread instead.

One table over, another guest's head whipped round and searched the room for the source of the laughter, as Fabian noticed out of the corner of his eye, but thought nothing of it and continued to eat in peace.

“You! I know you!” suddenly said a dark, powerful voice in front of his table.

Fabian looked up in astonishment and found himself face to face with the person whose attention he had just caught.

“Oh yeah?” Fabian replied after swallowing his bite.

youtube

Both stared at each other inquiringly and thoughtfully for a moment and while an evil grin stole into the face opposite him, which was adorned with an old, long scar, it slowly dawned on Fabian and he realised with horror who was standing in front of him. He knew him only too well from his nightmares! This guy was none other than his father's murderer, whose face Fabian was able to mark with a swipe of his sword tip at the very last moment before he escaped with his mate. Fabian was unable to run after them at the time due to his leg injury, but this memory, which had tormented him for decades, now returned in one fell swoop with elemental force.

Fabian slowly stood up and the next moment the other man had a long dagger in his hand, grinning slyly. At the last moment, Fabian was able to dodge the thrust, grabbed the mug of beer in the process and slammed the glass with full force against his opponent's temple. He collapsed with a disappointed, loud cry and in the next moment Fabian was already standing over him and kicked him with the tip of his boot, right in the attacker's face.

He was about to grab the dagger to finish the job once and for all, but his opponent was still quick and alert enough to kick his weapon under the table out of Fabian's reach and scramble up.

A fierce fistfight broke out between the two in the moments that followed. Fabian landed a targeted and brutal blow on his nose, which cracked loudly. Next, he felt the kick of one of his opponent's boots in his privates as he fell over backwards and the fountain of blood from his broken nose sprayed into his face. Fabian groaned, the other guest fled in a hurry and the landlord shouted at both of them.

However, neither of them had realised that three royal guardsmen had been at the back of the room and were now pressing the brawlers to the floor with all the force they could muster. They had appeared out of nowhere and both of them were both extremely surprised and deeply disappointed. Both could not finish the job and now found themselves in the custody of the royal guard.

When Fabian and the other man were finally interrogated in the castle, which was not entirely without blows to the face, the young captain of the guard joined them. He held a wanted poster in his hand, which he now held under Fabian's nose with sparkling eyes.

“We've finally caught you! After so many years,” he said proudly to Fabian. “You'll be put in our deepest dungeon for life! This is the last daylight you'll see,” he added gloatingly. Then he turned to the other prisoner, “And as for you, you'll end up in a cell and be interrogated until you can credibly tell us what it was all about down in the tavern and why he smashed his beer glass in your face and then kicked you! There must be a good reason for that and don't you dare lie to us, because we'll soon find out the truth.”

~~~

At the same time, a lone rider arrived at the palace gates and caused a bit of a commotion among the guards who were on patrol there.

As the tall rider dismounted from his young stallion, a guard from the royal house came running towards him.

“Good evening, commander. We didn't expect to see you again so soon. Was your mission successful?”

“Yes, there will be no further difficulties with the merchant guild, provided they keep their word to regulate the prices of goods in the city in future. However … was there anything urgent at the palace during my absence? Does Her Majesty require my presence in the throne room immediately?”

“No, we have received no such message from Her Majesty, but …,” the guard appeared somewhat nervous and was noticeably hesitant to continue with his report.

“What is it, lieutenant? Judging by your face, there was an incident while I was away, right? I can smell something like that.”

“Indeed, commander. Something has happened in fact. The recently appointed Captain Ernst has thrown us into quite a turmoil. Two hours ago, some of our men arrested two people who were fighting in a tavern.”

“So what? What's so special about that? When people fight in the Snuggly Duckling Pub, it's not a surprise, it's perfectly normal.” He shook his head reprovingly. “Ernst should know well enough by now that such cases are all too common in this establishment,” the veteran adjutant added coldly.

“You're certainly right, sir, except that this incident didn't happen there, but in the middle of our city centre. The main problem with this matter is that one of these two men appears to be a former refugee of our kingdom. Captain Ernst has therefore assigned two guards to search the archives for wanted letters from the last 20 years, and indeed he can be found in the files; such a person was probably involved in a deadly duel back then. But as if that wasn't enough, the accused claims to be an ambassador from Arendelle - he even wants an audience with Queen Rapunzel!”

The old man turned pale. “Where are Captain Ernst and this supposed Arendellean diplomat now? Take me to them immediately.”

“In the interrogation room, please follow me.”

~~~

Fabian received a slap in the face from the young captain because he could only answer the same thing over and over again.

But before the captain could continue, another commanding voice sounded behind him, “That's enough, you hothead!”

He was undoubtedly referring to the young captain and pushed him aside.

Fabian couldn't believe who he suddenly had before him, but didn't let on.

“I know this man and would put my hand in the fire for him at any time. If there's anything he's guilty of, I'll find out personally. The accusation on the wanted poster is long gone, because the perpetrator was caught years ago and died in the process. Have you forgotten, Captain, or didn't you check the records personally? Furthermore, a foreign ambassador is protected by royal decree, he can't be arrested nor be processed by any means. Now, by my position at the Royal Council, I demand you to set free this man at once!” Then he looked disparagingly at the other prisoner. “You can lock this one up for interrogation later. One more thing, Ernst, you and I will have a serious conversation about this incident and the lack of your performance in this situation.”

The men of the guard saluted him and followed his instructions without a word, only the young captain hung his head in disappointment, nodded and pushed the prisoner very roughly in front of him.

Fabian and he looked after them and then Fabian's shackles were released with the words, “What are you doing here after all this time in Corona, fencing boy?”

Fabian raised his eyebrows because he hadn't heard that nickname for a long time.

“I'm on a very important mission on the direct orders of the Queen of Arendelle, horse tamer,” he replied with a grin, using an equally elegant nickname and pulling a sealed letter out of his boot, which he waved in front of his old childhood friend's face.

“So that's where you've been all these years, I see. I wouldn't have thought of that, I thought you were dead instead. Apparently you made yourself there though, if you have contact with the queen there.”

Fabian nodded, stood up and gave his old friend a pat on the shoulder, “I wouldn't have believed I'd ever come here again either.” Fabian told him what the job was about and how it came about. “But tell me, how is it that you can deal with the captain of the guard like that?”

“Oh, that's a long story. Just this much, I held that position myself for years until it became too strenuous for me at my age. Now I've been promoted to royal adjutant, I'm subject to the direct orders of Their Majesties and my word is just as good on their behalf as if they were giving the orders themselves. But wash your face first. You can't go under the eyes of the Queen like this. Follow me.”

They continued talking in the castle staff washroom while Fabian wiped the blood from his face.

“Didn't you once have a wild horse called Maximus? What happened to him?”

“Unfortunately, my faithful friend is no longer alive, but he has a very lively colt and has passed on his best qualities to him. He's still too young for the hard training, but I love this horse. I call him Magnus now.”

“I'm sorry, I didn't know that.”

“How could you, you've been away for how long now, fencing boy? Thirty years or more?”

Fabian nodded.

“We should keep in touch in the future. What's it like in Arendelle? I heard from rumors. It's supposed to be very nice there in summer. Maybe I'll come and visit you with my daughter one day,” he said as they left the room.

“You have a daughter?” Fabian blurted out, visibly surprised.

“Adopted daughter, and now grown up, to be precise. Her name is Cassandra.”

“I can see that a lot has happened in my absence. You need to tell me everything in peace and quiet, and yes, I would really love a visit from both of you. Arendelle is indeed very beautiful, especially the high mountains there. But the old and beautiful memories of Corona have almost overwhelmed me today. I miss my home so much, to be honest.”

“Maybe we can go to the castle gardens later or somewhere else for a beer or two. Then we can catch up on some news, can't we?”

“I'd love to, my friend. I have something very important to tell you about the other prisoner in particular. But before that, I would like an audience with the queen, if possible. I'm a bit nervous about my history, though.”

“You don't need to worry about that any more. Not even about the Brotherhood, who withdrew their accusation after a witness who knew your father well and knew you were his son turned up. He witnessed the fight and exonerated you by credibly confirming that you acted in pure self-defence. The death of one of the attackers caused by you was in the heat of the moment and was therefore not a deliberate murder, he said. It's just a pity that you fled afterwards to an unknown destination and we couldn't tell you about it now that I know.”

Fabian sighed audibly and his relief was clear to see. The former captain patted him on the shoulder encouragingly. “Follow me to the throne room, I'll announce you with Queen Rapunzel and you can now meet her without any worries.”

He was back a short time later. “She's expecting you now, Fabian.” This was the first time he had addressed him by his real name, but he was deep in thought and didn't even notice.

Instead, he asked, “What's she like? Down in the city, I saw a mural of her when she was young, with her parents and—”

“—her husband and saviour, Eugene Fitzherbert,” his friend added with a smile. Well, she had an eventful past and has matured a lot since she reappeared in Corona as the daughter of the old regents, which was on the morning of the annual Lantern Night. She also had quite a turbulent time afterwards as a newly minted princess, but now she has two children, a son and a daughter, who have even been to Arendellle for the young queen's coronation.” He interrupted briefly, “Well, you'll meet her yourself in a moment and I'll see you afterwards. Good luck with your mission.”

Fabian entered the enormous hall and walked slowly and with dignified steps towards one of the two thrones, the other was empty. In the background, he could see several men of the bodyguard in splendid uniforms. He bowed deeply to the queen and inclined his head before speaking, “Your Majesty, as your adjutant has no doubt already explained, I am Master Fabian from Arendelle on behalf of Queen Anna.”

“Welcome to Corona, Master Fabian. Rise to your feet. How can I help you?”

~~~

youtube

Far north of Arendelle, in the Northuldra region…

A small sailing ship with a small crew and Yelana on board dropped anchor off the southern sandy beach. Also on board were the Arendelle's master builders, who had the royal commission to inspect the Norting building and meet with the descendants of the builders to rebuild it in Arendelle.

A small dinghy ferried the group of three across and Yelana led them past the four monoliths, illuminated by the afternoon sun, and into the camp. Neither of the two men, who were loaded down with measuring equipment, had ever been to this area before, but of course they knew all the stories about it. They stopped briefly at the tall stones with the symbols of the four elements and looked up in awe. The uncovered fifth monolith, whose actual mass was deep underground and only showed its smooth upper side, also attracted their attention. In the meantime, a wooden fence had been erected around it so that nobody, especially children, would accidentally fall into the pit and nobody would think of entering it.

There was something striking about the fifth monolith that the two men didn't quite understand: in contrast to the snow-covered surroundings, its surface was clear and dry. It seemed to radiate warmth that immediately melted away the fresh snow. Yelana explained its meaning, making the connection to the nature spirits clear and thus also to Elsa, the fifth spirit.

“We've heard a lot about it, including the four nature spirits. Is there any chance that we will see them? We've already seen the water horse Nokk when Arendelle was rescued, but not the fire and wind spirits, let alone one of the earth giants,” asked one of them on the way to the camp, looking around with interest.

“There's no guarantee of that,” she replied, “certainly not for the earth giants, but maybe Bruni, the fire spirit, who often helps us with the firelight in winter, will turn up.”

“What do they actually look like, these earth giants, how big are they?” asked the other.

Yelana had to laugh, “Terrifyingly big and so heavy that you can hear their footsteps and feel them in the ground before you even see them.”

A little later, they reached the first huts. Yelana was greeted and surrounded, beaming with joy. She explained the purpose of their being here, introduced them to the master builders of Arendelle and asked that the two old Northuldra master builders come to the norting house later for a chat.

“Yelana, will you stay with us? Since you and Honeymaren left, our people have been without leadership,” said one of the Northuldra and others echoed his sentiment.

Yelana pondered, for this was indeed a valid question.

“Let me think about it in peace. I'll let you know later at dinner.” Then she continued on her way to the secluded meeting place.

The two master builders were very impressed by the construction and the almost magical sight. They talked and gesticulated, then one of them took out his sketchbook and began to draw, while the other made comments and pointed out certain details. Yelana found herself somewhat superfluous, they were already so engrossed in their work, but as soon as her own masters arrived she would leave and go back to camp.

She pondered the question from earlier. Actually, there was nothing wrong with her staying here for a few months. She would help with the planning of the new building in an advisory capacity, but construction couldn't begin until spring anyway, if not later. The new royal council also had to be formed first, so she had no official duties in Arendelle at the moment. Besides, winter had only just begun and would last for several months. The two Arendellians could sail back on their own and she didn't need many personal items that weren't already in her travelling bag. She got everything she needed from her people.

She was leading the master builders inside the building when the two elderly Northuldra men appeared. She introduced them all and then said goodbye, telling them that dinner would be served soon and that she would organise a hut for them to sleep in in the meantime. Everything was now underway and her plan for Arendelle seemed to be taking shape. Yelana was satisfied.

In the camp, she called some people to her and announced that she had decided to stay here for a few months. Everything else would follow. She also learnt on this occasion that the reindeer had recently moved to lichen meadows. Yelana suggested that perhaps they should also explore the eastern region for new grazing grounds, after all, they were no longer trapped under a magical bell of fog.

Everyone was happy to hear the good news and agreed to her suggestion. Finally, Yelana took possession of her old kota again and threw her personal belongings inside before sitting down by one of the cooking fires and relaxed.

~~~

youtube

Anna became increasingly anxious and could hardly concentrate on her daily duties after she and her sister returned from Vesterland. There was still no news from the dispatch rider who had been tasked with finding out Kristoff's whereabouts. Kristoff had never behaved like this before and that could only mean one thing - that something must have happened to him.

Elsa couldn't comfort her any more than Olaf could, and even Olina's chocolate couldn't cheer Anna up. Hadn't someone once claimed that chocolate would make you happy? Anna was far from it and paced up and down her study, restless and brooding.

She reviewed the last three days. First, as Mari had promised, four supply wagons arrived with provisions for humans and animals. After everything had been distributed, the sisters sat together in the evening and read Lord Peterssen's diary. It was a fascinating read, but they left most of it aside and focussed mainly on preparing for the conversation with King Jonas. They saved the rest of the diary for later, as time was pressing.

Peterssen's handwriting was pleasant, accurate and detailed, which said a lot about his character. His records went back to King Runeard's time, including mention of Vesterland and his plans to involve that kingdom in the financing of his dam project. But the Southern Isles and the royal house of Westergaard were also mentioned. There he wrote about facts and rumours of the time, as well as the king's marriage plans for his sons. Hans had not yet been born at the time, but some of his older brothers were already married or engaged to princesses from other kingdoms.

Peterssen drew conclusions about the kingdom's expansion plans in preparation for possible trade relations and to inform his king in good time of possible dangers and political entanglements. Anna and Elsa also learnt about Rudi Westergaard and consulted another book from the library, which contained information on other kingdoms. They looked at each other in amazement. Apparently this Rudi was the only one besides Hans who had not yet married. He was also not considered to be particularly intelligent and King Jonas certainly didn't want someone like that on his daughter's side.

The next day, they travelled with Mari to Vesterland. The talks with her father went quite well with the help of this information and the descriptions of their personal experiences with the Westergaard royal house, and King Jonas promised to give them serious thought. He had also promised to come to Arendelle's winter ball with Mari. All in all, the sisters were quite pleased with themselves and Mari thanked them warmly with a big hug.

That had been yesterday and now Anna had time to think about other things again and couldn't help but be very worried about her Kristoff.

There was a knock and she rushed to the door to open it. Surprisingly, Kai was standing in front of her and she could only stare at him for seconds in surprise. He looked rested and smiled at her, completely relaxed. Kai must have only returned from Snoob in the last few minutes, Anna surmised. Then she simply took him into her arms in an unkempt manner, casting a worried glance left and right into the corridor. But there was no sign of Kristoff.

Kai stiffened at this extremely unusual greeting from his queen and cleared his throat.

“Your Majesty, … er … is something wrong?”

Anna let go of him and shook her head. Then she invited him in and closed the door behind him.

Once they were both seated, she said, “I'm so glad you're back, Kai. To be honest, I've missed you. But please don't think wrongly about it now, because you really deserved your holiday with your family. But tell me, do you know where Kristoff is? He didn't come with you, did he? Did something happen to him in Snoob?” Anna looked at him worriedly.

Kai shook his head in amazement. “Isn't he here already? I thought that after he travelled on to the royal naval base on the advice of the Baron of Snoob, he should have been back by now. A messenger from Arendelle was in Snoob yesterday morning and also enquired after him. He followed his travel route.”

Anna replied in the negative and shared her concerns with Kai.

“It will be all right, Your Maj … er, Anna. What could happen to him there, or on the way there. He was probably just delayed and is already travelling back with the messenger. Do not worry.”

Anna nodded, “I'm sure you're right, but still, it's so unlike him to keep me in the dark all this time.” She paused for a moment and realised that it was actually a bit rude to Kai to just ask him about Kristoff. “What do you have to tell? I'm curious, how are Karl and his wife — what's her name?”

“Hanna,” he replied, “they're both doing really well.”

“Oh yes … her name almost sounds like mine, how could I have forgotten that,” she said with a soft giggle, “and what else have you been up to?”

Kai talked about long conversations, the pleasant atmosphere in Snoob, even while Kristoff was still there, before he left after the talks with the Baron, long walks and the refreshing of old memories in his homeland. In the end, he told Anna about the outcome of the talks with the baron about the candidates for the new royal council.

“That sounds very promising, Kai. Thank you for your efforts and I'm also pleased that you had such a pleasant time with the family. You look refreshed.”

“Thank you, Anna, it was—,” he began, as someone knocked energetically.

“Come in,” Anna said and stood up expectantly.

It was the messenger, who bowed low as he entered, but left the door open. Anna began to hope and expected to see Kristoff at any moment, but then why had the messenger knocked and not him and left the door open? Except … Anna turned pale.

“Your Majesty, I have just returned and can bring you the following report. Your fiancé, Kristoff Bjorgmann, arrived safely at the naval base, but he left the peninsula on a ship. After that, his trail was lost and I could not be informed of his destination due to a lack of written instructions from you. Unfortunately, despite my assurances, I was refused this information. I'm sorry.”

Anna could say no more than, “I see…”

Then he bowed again and left the study. This time, however, he closed the door behind him.

“What the …,” she began, but then changed her mind because of Kai's presence, who had also got up and was now looking at her very sadly.

“Would you please leave me alone, Kai? I need to think. Oh, and please send Elsa to me when you see her, but there's no hurry.”

“Very well,” he said and left her study with an understanding nod.

~~~

Three days later …

The first ship to moor in Arendelle's harbour was the ARN Voyager. Elsa and Anna made their way to the harbour to meet Master Fabian in person. Both were quite curious to see if he had been successful and what else he had to report about Corona. After all, it had been a while since they had been in contact with this kingdom.

Fabian's news was extremely positive and Voyager's cargo hold was filled to the brim. Reason to celebrate. They invited him to the castle for dinner and a cosy evening in the fireside lounge. He obviously had a lot to tell them and they were both eager to learn more.

“You look different somehow, Fabian,” Anna realised. “I can't put my finger on it, but the way you talked about your old home, the almost rapturous descriptions—,” she left the sentence open.

Fabian exchanged glances with both sisters, who were sitting cosily on the sofa in front of the fire with a cup of hot chocolate. He had made himself comfortable on an upholstered chair near the fire so that he could look them both in the eye as he spoke.

“Well, it's true, the visit to Corona has changed me in some ways after such a long absence and … well …,” he paused a little before continuing, “I miss my old home very much and since an old matter was finally resolved there, I'm seriously considering whether I should return.”

The sisters were silent for a few moments and just looked at him.

“We would miss you dearly, Fabian,” Elsa finally said, “but I can understand your feelings.”

Anna nodded, “That's true. But tell me, what old thing were you talking about? I mean … I don't want to be too nosy and you don't need to tell us about it … um.”

Elsa giggled, “You bet you're nosy, Anna!”

“Sorry,” Anna grinned back.

Fabian waved her off, “No problem. I'm so relieved about it myself and to be honest, it was me who was mistaken.”

Then he began to tell his long story and the sisters, who hadn't known nothing about it before, hung on his every word. It ended up being a long and satisfying evening full of surprises for everyone.

~~~

The following morning, another ship arrived in the harbour. An elegant schooner brig headed for the berth right next to the Voyager, which would be completely unloaded today. Nobody knew this ship and it looked as if it had just come from the shipyard, with brightly shining sails, a long, waving banner with the crocus symbol on it and a hull that had certainly not often seen the seas. Curious onlookers formed on the quay wall, some pointing their fingers as they chatted with their companions and some even waved to the deck crew. Eyes were squinted to recognise the ship's name. ARN Draba was an unusual name for many and undoubtedly the newest ship in the Arendelles Royal Fleet.

Commands rang out on deck and the sailors hurried to carry out the orders. Slowly the Draba glided closer and when she was moored, a blond mop of hair appeared at the railing with the antlers of a reindeer beside him. Next, a wagon was hoisted over it and the gangway lowered.

Only minutes later, Anna had also been informed of the arrival by Kai in her study. She was almost on her way to the dining room to have breakfast with Elsa, but stopped in the middle of the room. While Kai left again, she was confusingly torn between two completely contradictory feelings. On the one hand it was a great relief that Kristoff was still alive and would probably be knocking on the door any minute now, and on the other, anger that he had let her down so badly and caused her so much worry without a single bit of news.

She clenched her fists and slowly the second feeling took over. Anger was building up inside her. Should Kristoff come to her himself, she would not run into him this time. Anna was eager to hear his excuses and at the same time extremely curious as to where he had actually been all this time. Had he simply come on board for the ship's maiden voyage? Had he not given a single moment's thought to the consequences of his actions?

It was another half an hour before there was finally a knock. Anna, who was now sitting back in her armchair with an annoyed expression, recognised him by the way he knocked and instead of simply saying 'Come in' she walked slowly to the door and finally yanked it wide open. It was indeed Kristoff and his broad grin vanished instantly when he saw Anna's annoyed face. He carefully entered without taking his eyes off her.

Anna slammed the door behind him so loudly that he was startled and visibly flinched. Anna slowly stepped towards him, pleased with his reaction and the look on his face, until he had to back away a little and slumped into the armchair in front of the table.

~~~

youtube

Nobody slammed any doors in Arendelle Castle, especially not at this time of day! Elsa flinched just as she was about to shove a spoonful of boiled egg into her mouth and the yolk dripped down onto the table.

The sound seemed to have come from above. Elsa stood up to clearly reprimand the person responsible, left the dining room and walked along the corridor towards the stairs, where she could see a few running feet scurrying up.

What was going on today, she asked herself with furrowed eyebrows and followed those feet upstairs. Once there, she couldn't believe her eyes because she saw several girls from the castle staff listening at the door and whispering to each other. But it wasn't just any door, it was the door to the royal study!

Elsa quietly stood behind the group, crossed her arms in front of her and then asked loudly, “What's going on here?”

Everyone in front of her flinched violently and turned to look at her with wide eyes.

“You're listening at the Queen's door? Are you completely nuts? Where are your manners! Troll yourselves and get to work, but fast! … shoo, shoo …” Elsa made a gesture with both hands as if she wanted to chase a pigeon away from the windowsill. “And not a word to anyone, understand?” she called after them.

The girls fled with bright red faces and Elsa had to shake her head in disbelief. She was already putting one hand on the door handle when an angry tirade rang out from behind it — from Anna! Elsa immediately hesitated and couldn't help but listen at the door herself.

She couldn't hear much through the thick door, only that Kristoff was in the room and had to listen to a first-class lecture. Were they having their very first marital quarrel? Not that Elsa had ever witnessed one herself, but she had heard about it. She didn't want to be in Kristoff's shoes right now. But she had never experienced Anna like she was now. She screamed at him and was beside herself with rage, that much was clear.

Should she just burst in and try to save what could still be saved, or should she let things take their course? It was a difficult decision and she first had to think about what would happen. But no, as queen, Anna was not allowed to overreact like that and she could only feel sorry for Kristoff.

Elsa knocked loudly three times and it became quiet inside. Only then did she open the door and quietly pushed it shut again behind her. Her eyes flitted back and forth between the two of them. Anna was standing in the middle of the room with a bright red face, her expression furious. Kristoff, on the other hand, sat facing Anna in the armchair in front of the table and hung his head. Elsa crossed her arms.

“I don't want to disturb your full-blown marital quarrel, but never before has anyone in the castle slammed a door so hard that you can hear it all the way down to the lowest floor. I've just had to shoo five of the new maids away from your study because they were eavesdropping, Anna. Eavesdropping! Honestly, what's got into you?”

Her sister rolled her eyes and pointed at Kristoff with an outstretched arm without looking at him. Her eyes were fixed on Elsa instead. “Because of him!”

“Anna, you can't be in your right mind to behave so childishly. Have you forgotten that you are the Queen of Arendelle?” Elsa had become a little louder, but didn't want to start an argument with her sister. She was old enough to realise her own mistakes. “Well … I realise what this is about, but you can't treat your husband like this just because he didn't send you a message and came back later than expected, can you?”

“Well, then let him tell you where he was.”

“Kristoff?” Elsa looked at him with a raised eyebrow.

He sighed, “In Weselton, with the Duke's nephew.”

Elsa's jaw dropped and Anna just said tersely, “See?”

“Uhh … I hope you haven't arranged any new trade treaty with the Duke, Kristoff, have you?”

“Not that, but … well, let's put it this way … I promised to put in a good word for them for helping me, er, Arendelle.”

“Wait a minute … I …,” Elsa was speechless. Then she grabbed a chair from the wall, placed it in front of Kristoff and sat down. “You should sit down as well, Anna. Let's talk about this bit by bit, calmly … all right?” She looked at her sister encouragingly and she finally complied with her request.

”All right, let's take it in turn and start from the beginning, Kristoff. Just tell us everything.” Elsa spoke in a reassuring tone and looked at Anna admonishingly.

While Anna sighed and nodded, Kristoff began to talk about his idea, his desire to help in the current kingdom emergency, his experiences at the naval base, the sea voyage and everything that happened there. He also said that it was ultimately not his fault that the return journey was delayed, but because of the captain's decision. Next he came to the experiences on Weselton and ended with the two people who were mainly responsible for the help and, above all, why they did it.

”So, … Leopold and Lutz, I remember them well,” said Elsa, “don't you too, Anna?” She nodded with a somewhat confused expression on her face. “You see, if you'd only let Kristoff explain, it wouldn't have come to the situation we had earlier. I guess we're even with those two now.”

“But still, Elsa, a little message to me and I wouldn't have been so worried.”

“Well, if you were so worried about Kristoff, then there must be love behind it, so please make up with each other, all right? But please promise me that you won't slam any more doors like that, and you, Kristoff, should perhaps think a little more about Anna on your next excursion.”

“As for that, I did think about her a lot and brought something special,” Kristoff replied and stood up.

He walked round the table towards Anna and reached into a small shoulder bag, which the sisters only just noticed.

“I'm really sorry, darling. It won't happen again, I promise. Look what I've carved for you on the Draba. It was only finished today.” Kneeling down, he handed Anna the love spoon. “Strictly speaking, we're already married, but I wanted to make up for this gift before the official wedding anyway. After all, I had plenty of time to do it on the ship.”

Instead of saying anything, Anna knelt down to him with a smile and simply hugged him tightly. Then she said, “Thank you, honey. It turned out really nice and this traditional gesture is really sweet of you. I forgive you.”

They both stood up and kissed.

“Oh, and I have a further little present for you that I saw in a shop in Weselton. It looked familiar to me somehow, but I don't know where it came from. But I thought it was cute and immediately thought of you.”

When Kristoff pulled out the little felt bird and held it out to Anna, she wasn't the only one with wide eyes.

“It looks almost exactly like—“

“Sir JørgenBjørgen!” Elsa added in surprise and immediately joined the two of them to compare the stuffed bird with hers. Kristoff looked back and forth between the two, somewhat perplexed.

“You already know the puffin and have even given it a pet name?”

“Elsa has one that she inherited from Papa. It's a long story,” explained Anna.

“It looks a bit different and without the same beady eye. That's nice. Now you've got one too, Anna. I wonder what name you'll give him.”

“Hmm…” She looked at Kristoff, pondering. “I think I already know … now that you've told us about the tour with the duke's nephew and that he supposedly has two talking magpies. I'll call him Sir Rupert, then I'll always know where he's from.”

Everyone laughed and Elsa said, “Good choice, sis.”

~~~

---

Tagging: @true--north @annaofthenorthernlights @dronning-formynder05

#frozen #frozen2 #frozen3 #fanfic #epic novel #the broken bridge #chapter 79 #bigfrozenfan #Youtube

13 notes · View notes

bigfrozenfan-fanfics · 21 days

Text

Chapter 78 - Weselton

Links: Chapter overview, Character list, Map, Glossar Rating: M over all Publishing cycle: around every 2-3 weeks

youtube

A few hours later, the sea had calmed down again and the Draba glided gently over the waves. Commands on deck could be heard all the way down to the sleeping deck and Kristoff, who was lying snuggled up to Sven on the ship's bare planks, woke. Sven was still asleep and his breathing was calm and even, Kristoff realised with relief. He stroked him between the ears and thought about all the adventures they had lived together since they were little.

Sven was only a few years younger than him, but Kristoff knew that the average life expectancy of reindeer was only about twenty years, not much more. Sven had long since reached that age and he now wondered how much longer he could stay by his side. He was his best friend and the idea of Sven leaving him one day tormented Kristoff.

He threw off the blankets without waking the reindeer, wrung out his wet clothes and put his clammy things back on before seeing the captain. He urgently needed something dry to wear and hoped that the captain could help him out.

A short time later, he knocked on the captain's cabin and heard a 'come in'. The skipper was surprised to see him instead of one of his sailors. He rose from his chair.

“Your Highness, you're all wet and your clothes are even dripping. We really must do something about that, otherwise you'll catch your death. Sit down first, please.”

He briefly left Kristoff, who had just sneezed, and returned shortly afterwards — with the ship's doctor and one of the ship's boys, who had a bundle of clothes over his arm.

“This is Otto, one of the best physicians in Her Majesty’s Navy, Your Highness, he will examine you after you have changed in my bunk. I could never forgive myself if you became seriously ill on my ship. This way, please …”

He led Kristoff into a narrow compartment separated by a curtain and the ship's boy handed him the dry clothes before he drew the curtain shut again.

Kristoff was grateful that it had worked out so quickly without words and after putting on the spare clothes of an officer who must have been about his stature, he stepped out of the bunk, sneezing loudly again, and sat down in front of the captain's table. The ship's boy had left in the meantime and the two others looked at him with concern. The doctor began to examine him without further ado.

“Nothing to worry, Your Highness. It's just a normal cold. Besides that you're frozen and dehydrated. Nothing that a warm meal with plenty of fluids, fruit and warmth over the next few days can't fix,” he said.

“How did this even happen, Your Highness? Have you been on deck the whole time in this weather?”

Kristoff nodded and explained everything.

“That's partly my fault,” the captain admitted, “because I should have ensured someone got you to safety below deck in good time. You are my passenger and I am responsible for your well-being while you are on board. Please forgive my inexcusable negligence.”

“That's all right, Captain, I should have reacted more quickly and was probably too careless. However, I am worried about Sven,” Kristoff replied.

“Sven?” asked the captain in astonishment.

“Sorry, my reindeer. He doesn't seem to be feeling well. Could you go and check on him?” He looked at the doctor questioningly.

“I'm not a vet and we don't have anyone else on board who knows anything about reindeer, as far as I know.”

“Please. Just a quick look.”

The doctor and the captain looked at each other doubtfully. Finally, the doctor relented.

“All right, I'll take a look at him and check his heartbeat,” the doctor sighed in agreement.

Kristoff jumped up gratefully and grabbed his clothes, which he had put down next to the chair. As he did so, his carving fell to the floor unnoticed. The captain realised, however, and frowned as he picked up the unfinished work and turned it over in his fingers.

“Wait, Your Highness. This is supposed to be a love spoon, isn't it? What are you using to carve it? A normal knife?”

Kristoff nodded and took it from his hand with relief.

“I'll let the carpenter know and he'll bring you more suitable tools.”

“Thank you, Captain. The spoon is indeed very important to me and I would like to have it ready when I disembark in Arendelle.” Kristoff waved the carving in front of his face to emphasise his words. Then he nodded gratefully and led the doctor to Sven.

Sven had already woken up and was back on his feet. As he trotted happily towards Kristoff when he came in with the doctor in tow, he hugged him joyfully and promptly received a wet tongue across his face and Sven sniffed in surprise at Kristoff's unfamiliar clothes.

“Oh, Sven…”

“Well, I'd say he's fine,” the doctor said with a grin. “Now, if you'll excuse me, I must fulfil my duties on board.” Then he bowed briefly and left.

Kristoff grabbed a couple of blankets for himself and Sven and led him up on deck.

“Come on, Sven, it's too gloomy down here and we both need some fresh air.

Once they reached the top, they were greeted by bright sunshine and a cloudless sky. The large, white sails billowed above them in a cold, steady breeze. All the sailors they came across gave the sailor's salute when they noticed the officer's uniform and he smiled back.

Later, he asked one of them to hang his wet clothes in the rigging to dry and received a puzzled shake of the head, but he was helped without asking further questions. Sven hopped across the deck, rejoicing and looking down here and over the railing into the spray of the displaced waves. Kristoff asked a sailor when they would reach Weselton and learnt that the Draba would drop anchor there tomorrow evening.

Around midday, the ship's bell rang and the ship's boy from this morning brought him an invitation from the captain to dine with him and his senior officers in the wardroom. Kristoff accepted with thanks, but first fetched some food for Sven from his wagon.

In the afternoon, a carpenter's assistant brought the tools promised by the captain and Kristoff began to work on his love spoon again with Sven at his side and warm blankets over both of them. This time they had chosen the raised aft deck, where they were not in anyone's way and the carving progressed faster and more precisely than before.

~~~

Meanwhile, Elsa and Anna had a lot of fun with Mari and tried to take her mind off things. The dinner of home-gathered mushrooms had been delicious and, as expected, Olina had shown her cooking skills and given the dish her distinctive flavour.

youtube

Later, they sat in the lounge for a long time with a cup of hot chocolate and chatted about this and that, mostly trivial things that had nothing to do with Mari's problem. But the siblings didn't forget, and after Mari said goodbye for the night, they planned the next steps for the coming day. Elsa would look after Mari, while Anna had to deal with the usual queen’s duties.

After Anna had taken care of the most important things the next morning and Elsa was out and about in the city with the princess, she searched the archives and the library for a solution to Mari's problem. But she needed peace and quiet and didn't want to be constantly disturbed by Olaf's comments on some new fact from a book while he was in his favourite place, the library.

A few servants who met her on her way through the castle were surprised at the pile of books that Anna was dragging along the corridor to her study, stacked up to her chin. Once there, she heaved the pile onto the table and then dropped into the armchair, panting.

She wanted to go through the books, journals and Arendelle's Laws later that evening with her sister to find solutions, or at least come up with some good ideas. But there was enough time to start now. She grabbed one book after another from the pile and leafed through the first few law books while she pondered.

If Kai were here now, she would probably only have to ask him and he could give her the answers she needed without hesitation. But he wasn't there and she had to search for them herself.

She remembered how mum and dad were about to get married. Wasn't he originally supposed to marry a princess he didn't know and then everything turned out differently? But what had been the reasons for him marrying a commoner instead of someone with royal blood? She and Elsa had never talked about it, it was just the way it was; and Mother hadn't mentioned anything about it on their trance journey either. But now that Mari had brought it up, she had to think about herself and Kristoff.

She had never questioned it and since Elsa had appointed her as her successor and she had been crowned, there was simply too much to do to have time for it. Something was constantly coming up and she was fully occupied with all the unfamiliar duties at the beginning, all the appointments with delegates from other kingdoms and, of course, the worries and needs of her citizens.

Kristoff had proposed to her even before she became queen; and she had said 'yes' with relief and joy. But now that she thought about it, she realised that it was obviously no problem for a Queen of Arendelle to marry a commoner. Technically, they already were. She had never expressed any reservations to Elsa, and her sister had never mentioned anything about possible problems of this kind herself. It was just the way it was and she was very happy to marry someone she had known and loved for a long time and who didn't need royal blood to fulfil her criteria. She shuddered at the idea of taking a prince she didn't know as her successor to the throne.

Just as she picked up the next book to find answers, there was a knock. It was Gerda, bringing her a tray with snacks and something to drink. She frowned at all the books and could barely find room to put the tray down on the table. Gerda knew Anna very well and of course knew what she needed as nourishment, so the chocolate, which she liked so much, was not missing.

“Thank you, Gerda, that's exactly what I need right now,” she said with a little sigh and popped a chocolate praline into her mouth before leaning back in her comfortable armchair and letting the chocolate melt on her tongue with her eyes closed.

“You look very stressed, Your Majesty. I hope it has nothing to do with new problems for Arendelle,” Gerda remarked in a worried voice. “When I see all these books here …”

Anna opened her eyes, swallowed the rest of the chocolate and shook her head as she looked at Gerda. “No, no, don't worry. I'm just looking for something about the succession to the throne and the regulations on marriages of monarchs.”

Gerda raised an eyebrow in surprise. “Can I perhaps help? Kai and I were able to give your parents answers to this question back then. I don't want to offend you, of course, but if you're wondering whether you as a queen are allowed to marry a commoner, I can confirm that you are. Nowhere in the laws of Arendelle does it say that it has to be a prince.”

Anna's jaw dropped in surprise. Then she stood up and gave the astonished Gerda a big hug.

“Gerda, you're a darling! That was exactly the answer I was looking for. Thank you!” she said, holding her at a distance again to look her in the eye. Gerda looked a little embarrassed, but then smiled happily at her.

“Yes, I saw the same relieved expression on your father Agnarr's face when Kai and I could give him the good news after hours of research. He was overjoyed that he was allowed to marry for love … and not a foreign princess.”

Anna nodded, now she knew the details of her parents' marriage. “Gerda, can you send someone up to take all these books back to the library?” she said with a sweeping gesture over her desk. “I don't need them any more.”

“But I'd love to. Is there anything else you need?”

Anna shook her head and doubts arouse again in her mind after Gerda had left the room. Mari's situation was different from that of her parents or Elsa and herself in one crucial respect. On the one hand, her father was still alive and therefore presumably had the right to decide on the terms of his succession. On the other hand, it was a matter of Vesterland, a different kingdom - as Elsa had already said - with different laws and customs.

Suddenly, Anna had an idea. The annual Arendelle Winter Ball in the castle was coming up at Christmas time. What if Mari met someone there, someone she was attracted to purely by chance and who might also be a nobleman? That would also avert the risk of one day having a Westergaard on Vesterland's throne with Mari.

Anna had to go through the planned guest list with Elsa soon anyway, perhaps her sister had another idea. It was at least a possibility.

A sharp knock on the door snapped her out of her thoughts. From the sound of it, it must be a male person with an urgent matter, but she wasn't expecting anyone at this time. Perhaps Kristoff had returned and there was a problem?

“Come in!” she called, standing up expectantly and anxiously at the same time.

Captain Einar entered somewhat hesitantly and bowed. “Sorry to disturb you, Your Majesty, but there's an unexpected problem in the dungeon with Albert Monrad.”

Anna raised an eyebrow. “What kind of problem, captain?”

“Well, as you may know, we've put the three war criminals from the Misty Pass incident in Monrad's cell, in consultation with General Mattias I might add.” He explained their plan in brief words.

“So?”

“Well, it wasn't Albert Monrad who wanted to get out of the cell and finally confess, as we had expected and hoped, but these three other prisoners.” Anna raised her other eyebrow as well. “They insist on their right, as they say, to remain among themselves and not to be overheard by some unknown fellow prisoner, whom they believe to be a spy for the general, until their trial begins.”

Anna sighed, “I see, and since you haven't been able to prove anything about Monrad's brother after days or find any evidence in his house, you now want my advice on how best to proceed with him, right?”

Einar nodded a little sheepishly, “I'm sorry, but yes. I'm running out of ideas and, to be honest, we can't keep a presumably innocent man in prison forever. Besides, there could be an unpleasant incident in the cell, who knows …”

Anna looked broodingly at the window for a moment, then turned back to Einar.

“All right, let him go. But keep him under observation as unnoticed as possible. I don't trust him any more than you do, Captain Einar.”

“Understood, Your Majesty.” He bowed and left the study again.

Anna sat down and thought about this supposedly innocent wine merchant. Something was nagging at her and she couldn't shake off a vague feeling of unease about the matter.

~~~

In the afternoon, Elsa turned up and entered the study with a quick knock as a warning to Anna, who had returned to her normal royal duties. The desk looked the same as before and all the books had been removed.

“There you are again,” Anna said after looking up briefly, but then continued writing on her document until she had finished. Meanwhile, Elsa sat down opposite her.

“So, what have you two been up to in the city? How is Mari?”

“She's doing well. We visited the places where you two were looking for a … “purpose” for each other before I suggested the ambassador thing for both of you. Do you remember?”

Anna raised her eyebrows. “That was a long time ago, though.”

Elsa nodded, “Well, and now you're the Queen of Arendelle and Mari has made herself over the years too. You've both grown over the years and I'm proud of you, especially you, Anna.”

“Thank you, sis!” Anna stood up and walked round the table. “Oh, and about that and Mari's problem … I've been poring over a few law books today, looking for a solution.” Anna told her about Gerda and her announcement about the marriages.

“I already know, Anna,” Elsa said tersely and her sister could only stare at her in bewilderment.

“What, you knew about it and you never told me?”

Elsa shrugged her shoulders, “Well, I thought you already knew that. You're usually so well informed about everything and …”

“No, not at all in this case. You shouldn't have kept me in the dark or perhaps reassured me as a precaution, especially after my idea about the emergency wedding with Kristoff. He's a commoner too, just like Mama was for Papa back then. Or to put it another way … did you already had the plan to put me on the throne before or after Kristoff proposed to me?” She pressed her arms to her hips, as she always did on such occasions, and put on a matching expression.

Elsa twisted the corner of her mouth regretfully and thought “Oh dear, now she's upset“. Then she stood up and gently placed a hand on her sister's cheek.

“I'm sorry, Anna. I just didn't realise. Back then, I almost had to memorise all of Arendelle's laws until … until the accident happened.”

“Which, as we now unfortunately know, wasn't an accident at all,” Anna added and her eyes began to fill with tears. Elsa took her in her arms as soon as she saw it and hugged her.

“Yes, but he'll pay for it for the rest of his life in never-ending agony, I'm sure of it. I know it's only a small consolation …”

“… but still. And once again, we have saved Arendelle and the Northuldra — together,” Anna added, sniffling. Elsa nodded into her shoulder.

They had never wanted to talk about Kolgrimr again, but now the feelings were returning — for both of them.

After they had regained their composure, Anna said, “Oh, and I thought of another crazy idea for Mari.” She talked about the upcoming winter ball.

“Actually … it's not a crazy idea at all, Anna. It could actually work. But we'd have to invite both of them, including King Jonas.” Elsa thought for a moment. “What do you say we accompany Mari tomorrow and talk to him together?”

“Good idea, Elsa, and this time no one can turn us away at the gate. Nevertheless, we should still look for more ideas and arguments tonight. Who knows what we'll need to convince him.”

“Indeed we do. Maybe we'll find something in the secret library about Vesterland's laws.”

“That reminds me … didn't we want to leaf through Lord Peterssen's diary?”

“Anna, you're brilliant!”

She smiled mischievously and remembered something else, that she had wanted to send a messenger to Snoob two days after these two supply wagons arrived, to find out where Kristoff was staying for so long. He could at least have sent a message. Before she left for Vesterland, she absolutely had to take care of that.

~~~

Kristoff looked up from his carving as soon as he felt a few raindrops on his head; it was also getting noticeably windier. He stood up and looked around so that he could quickly disappear below deck with Sven if necessary. But the sea around him showed no sign of an approaching storm. He hadn't been paying much attention, but the Draba seemed to have made good time in the last few hours.

When a sailor called out “Land in sight” from the lookout shortly afterwards, the sailors on deck began to stir. A little later, the captain came up and pulled apart his telescope. Kristoff stood next to him as he gazed into the distance.

“Are we there yet?” he asked him, “I thought we wouldn't reach our destination until tonight.”

The captain nodded and pushed the binoculars back together with a clacking sound. “You're right, Your Highness, but the wind has carried us well. That is indeed Weselton up ahead. We can drop anchor there in just under two hours.”

“What awaits me there? I mean, what's Weselton like?”

“Hmm, Weselton is probably a paradise for birdwatchers and sheep breeders, perhaps also for nature lovers. But it's very barren there and the bad weather in the winter months is really no fun, at least for someone who isn't used to it or knows it from long boat journeys.”

“How big is the island?”

“Oh, it's not just one island, there are dozens, but only a few of them are inhabited and Weselton is the biggest of them all.”

“Sorry to ask so many nosy questions, but it's my first time and I don't know too much about this place. How many people actually live there?”

“You don't need to apologise, Your Highness. The duchy certainly doesn't have more than half the population of Arendelle's capital, but I don't know for sure. You'll soon see for yourself.” The captain had not looked directly at him until now, instead casting scrutinising glances ahead and into the gathering clouds above them. Now he looked directly at Kristoff, “Are you planning a longer stay?”

Kristoff shook his head. “No longer than absolutely necessary.”

��“That's good. We'll take on fresh supplies and in two days' time at the latest, once we've made landfall and the winds are favourable, we intend to head for another island in the west before returning to Arendelle. Plenty of time to take your supplies on board, if Weselton can spare any. Well, you'll see for yourself.”

Kristoff was surprised and realised that his calculation of the journey time had been quite wrong. But he had to admit to himself that he was only a passenger and couldn't expect the Draba's only task to be to drop him off at his destination and return with him immediately afterwards.

“How long to get there?” he asked.

“If the wind is fair … hmm, about three more days. Back to Arendelle will be almost six in total.”

Kristoff swallowed and nodded, sighing softly. There was nothing he could do about it now. Things were not going as he had imagined. The captain noticed his disappointed expression.

“But please don't say you didn't know about it and the admiral didn't warn you.”

What should he say to that? Kristoff hesitated. Then he raised his shoulders apologetically. The captain shook his head in disbelief and thought to himself that His Highness probably still had a lot to learn. But he also knew that it was Kristoff's first major voyage and now everything was starting to make a lot more sense.

“Don't worry, you may have the opportunity to take a ship from Weselton for the return journey - or you can just accept the longer journey and stay on board when we leave. It's your decision.”

~~~

Shortly before dropping anchor in Weselton's sheltered harbour, the main sails were hauled in and the command was given to loosen the ropes and plumb, causing the ship to slow down. Kristoff stood in the bow of the Draba with Sven at his side, taking in the sight before him.

youtube

The island had rugged, high cliffs and the hills and the only visible mountain behind it were treeless, smooth and green with vegetation. A multitude of gulls and other birds circled cawing over the Draba or clung to their nests in the cliffs. The sky above was grey and cloudy, the sun had faded and a light drizzle wetted Kristoff's eyes as he looked up.

The houses on the hillside above the harbour basin were as grey as the sky, topped by a large grey castle with a blue and white flag fluttering on a mast on the highest wall in the stiff breeze.

Kristoff had never seen this type of construction before, instead of being made of wood, as in the capital of Arendelle, everything here was built of rough stone, almost as if it had grown together with the rocky ground. Only a few houses were painted red, blue or green, but everything here looked dreary and deserted, which could of course be due to the weather; he mused.

The Draba entered the harbour alongside a large brig flying Weselton's flag, the rest were more or less large fishing boats, the most impressive of which had a long harpoon at the bow. All the sails had been taken in and the boats bobbed along lonely and without any crew.

"Ready to anchor!" shouted the skipper from his elevated position on the aft deck and the crew responded with "Clear fore and aft!", followed by the helmsman's command, "Drop anchor!"

The anchor on the chain was lowered slowly but noisily into the harbour basin until hand signals were given that it had reached the bottom. Then all the other sails were hauled in and shortly afterwards, the ship was moored and the gangway lowered onto the pier.

Kristoff saw the captain waving to him and Sven and he moved towards him, ready to disembark. Kristoff's heart was pounding with nervousness and when he looked down at the gangway, some of the inhabitants were already standing there waiting with astonished faces, their eyes wide open and looking upwards. A few more people were now also gathering at the top of the quay wall.

Kristoff followed their gaze upwards and then he suddenly realised why they all looked so astonished. The flag of Arendelle was flying prominently on the main mast.

Kristoff couldn't help but wonder how long it had been since Weselton had been visited by Arendelle. His eyes fell on Sven and he put his head in both hands.

“Sven, it's probably best if you stay on board for now. The gangway is steep and I don't want you to slip and plop into the harbour basin. You've had enough excitement on the way here, all right?”

Sven looked at him sadly and made a plaintive sound, which prompted Kristoff to hug him and then scratch him between the ears.

“I'll be back soon, be patient and be a good reindeer.”

Kristoff carefully walked down the wide plank with the crossbars and after briefly introducing himself to the first person he met, asked to speak to the duke's nephew.

This man pointed to the only way up through the small harbour town.

“Just follow the road to the castle, you can’t get lost. Their lordships can be found there.”

Kristoff nodded and wordlessly followed his advice. The man had just spoken in plural, so the Duke was probably also present. Kristoff felt a little uneasy.

He took his time and looked around curiously. Some of the citizens he met made the sailor's salute on their foreheads and he assumed they were probably fishermen or crew from the brig. Until he suddenly realised why. He was still wearing the uniform of an officer, probably a lieutenant in the Royal Navy. No wonder they showed him this gesture of honour.

He passed by various shops, mostly for groceries or fishing supplies, but also one or two taverns from which there was an audible sound of bustling activity. He stopped curiously at a knitwear shop, where cute animal figures made of felt were on display in the window. One of them seemed somehow familiar to him, but he couldn't quite place it. It showed a small bird with a large red beak next to sad-looking beady eyes and red waddling feet like a duck.

However, this harbour town didn't exactly look like a wealthy place, more like an oversized fishing village with a farm, as the number of chickens and sheep on the way up to the castle told him. A wide variety of birds were also constantly looking for food around him, making all kinds of noises from chirping to cawing. The captain had not promised too much in this respect.

Kristoff was curious to see what the inside of the imposing castle looked like. He saw only a few window openings, most of them unusually narrow, and the walls seemed to be more than half a meter thick. There wasn't really a castle courtyard to speak of here, just a large paved area in front of the entrance flanked by two guards and a pompous, unharnessed carriage in front of it. A few buildings were clustered nearby, one of which looked suspiciously like a stable and two horses in front of it that looked more like ponies, small as they were.

When Kristoff was a few meters away from the entrance, the guards in an unusual appearance for him crossed their halberds in front of it.

“Halt! What is your desire?” asked one, scrutinising him from top to bottom.

Somehow this situation seemed familiar to Kristoff, only this time he was dressed more appropriately, it seemed to him.

“I am Kristoff Bjorgmann from Arendelle and I wish to speak to Lord Rupert Wolfgang. And no, I don't have an appointment for an audience,” he added as a precaution.

“Please wait a moment, I'll announce you,” said the other of the two, leaning his ceremonial weapon against the castle wall and disappearing behind the double-leafed high door.

It took him less than five minutes to return, and with a distinctly different expression on his face, for he smiled as he held the door open and said, “Please come in, your lordship, the young lord is already expecting you.”

Aha; thought Kristoff, this promises to be interesting, nodded briefly to the guard and entered the castle.

Inside, it looked more like what one would expect from the residence of a duchy. A high entrance hall, thick tapestries, oil paintings, animal trophies and various types of weapons adorned the walls, with sconces placed at regular intervals in between. A few pieces of polished armour stood here and there and an enormous chandelier hung low from the ceiling with burning candles.

At the front, Kristoff was greeted by the warmth of a wide fireplace with a crackling fire and a leather suite with a table in front of it. To the left and right, two wide, curved staircases led up to the balustrade, behind which half a dozen closed doors could be seen.

Only now did Kristoff notice a younger man sitting in front of him by the fireplace, smiling and leaning around the back of his leather armchair.

“Please come closer, my lord. I am very pleased to have a visitor from Arendelle,” he said and stood up. “My uncle is upstairs and has a family visit, he probably doesn't even know that someone has arrived from Arendelle.”

Kristoff stepped closer and offered him his hand, which the duke's nephew returned with a vigorous and extremely friendly shake.

“But I suppose you didn't want to speak to him yourself, did you? Because, as the guard told me, you asked specifically for me. How did I get the honour? Arendelle's attitude towards the Duke is therefore unchanged, I assume? I really must apologise for my uncle's behaviour back then. He really didn't make any friends. But please sit by my warm fire. May I offer you something? Wine, brandy or something else? Please…” He made an inviting gesture towards the armchair opposite.

There seemed to be no end to the nephew's torrent of words, Kristoff thought. The admiral had undoubtedly hit the nail on the head. Annoyance really did seem to run in the family. However, Kristoff was very glad that he would probably not have to face the duke today.

“Thank you, Lord Wolfgang, a glass of wine would be fine,” Kristoff replied.

“Why don't you just call me Rupert? May I call you Kristoff? Casual encounters are always my favourite.” He stood up briefly and poured Kristoff a glass of wine from a bottle on a nearby side table with all sorts of other spirits on it and placed it in front of his guest.

“What is your request, Kristoff? How can I be of assistance? I very much hope I can, if it is within my power. My uncle is very particular about some things, as you can well imagine. I apologise again. But if necessary, I'll be happy to ask him to join us later, only if you wish, of course, Kristoff. But we can also take a tour of our beautiful island, or a little carriage ride perhaps?”

Kristoff had only had the chance to utter a single irrelevant sentence so far and was increasingly annoyed by this kind of conversation, if such a dialogue could even be called that.

“I came here on my own initiative, without an official commission from the royal house, but Arendelle has a … little supply problem with food and animal feed. I am therefore travelling on a private mission to help Arendelle and ask for support. If—”

Kristoff didn't get any further, however, because a loud voice near the entrance interrupted him.

“Visitors from Arendelle, what a nice surprise!”

Two tall men approached them, one blond with a large handlebar moustache, the other brown-haired with a protruding chin beard and round glasses.

Kristoff recognised them immediately because they were Leopold and Lutz, who had taken part in the Arendelle Cup, the annual sled race, a few years ago and had to be rescued from an avalanche by Anna and Elsa.

They all greeted each other, shaking hands, before they both sat down.

“Your Highness, what an honour that you are visiting Weselton. May I introduce myself? I am Leopold von Amstel and the gentleman next to me is Lutz,” Leopold said gallantly and the duke's nephew's jaw dropped at his address.

“Yes, I've seen you both before in Arendelle, but it's been a while,” Kristoff replied, nodding.

“Wait a minute … Your Highness?” Lord Wolfgang asked in astonishment.

Kristoff looked at him. “That is indeed my title now,” he confirmed, “for I am the … the queen's fiancé,” he improved just in time, as the official wedding had not yet taken place.

“Sorry, I didn't know that, so please forgive my direct behaviour, Your Highness. That was probably a little inappropriate.” He chuckled uncertainly. “However, you also left me somewhat in the dark … um…”

Kristoff waved him off, “That's all right … Lord Wolfgang, but I've hardly had a chance to say anything so far.” He grinned and Lord Wolfgang turned a little pale.

“What brings you to us?” Lutz asked in between and Kristoff continued with what he was about to explain before he was interrupted.

Everyone listened attentively and wondered a little about the reasons for this supply bottleneck.

“Well, a fire broke out on the farmland, which unfortunately spread to the grain silos and the barns where the loaded wagons were waiting for the planned autumn festival,” he explained, but refrained from going into the real reasons, “which we unfortunately had to cancel for the first time in Arendelle's history.”

“That's terrible,” said Lord Wolfgang and the other two expressed their regret and sympathy.

“So you can see that Arendelle urgently needs supplies. Can Weselton perhaps help us with this?” continued Kristoff, looking round.

“Well, to be honest, Arendelle broke off all trade relations with Weselton of its own accord back then. But if this could be changed, the duke would certainly not say no,” said the nephew. “Besides, we don't have that much ourselves that we could do without, and—”

“Oh come on, Rupert, you almost sound like your uncle! And you're always apologising for him, no matter where you go. We both, Lutz and I, are deeply indebted to the Queen of Arendelle because she—”

“Saved your lives back then?” Kristoff added bluntly to Leopold's sentence.

He and Lutz looked down in shame and Lord Wolfgang rolled his eyes.

“And only because we were arrogant enough to think we could win the Arendelle Cup by playing tricks,” Lutz admitted. “Stupid of us and we're still sorry about it today.”

“The queen and her sister don't hold grudges and in the end we were all friends again, weren't we?” said Kristoff.

“Indeed we were! So, Rupert, how can we help His Highness?”

“The duke doesn't need to know anything,” Lutz added, twinkling one eye at the duke's nephew.

~~~

The following day, friends Leopold and Lutz organised the undercover transport of goods from various villages and farms on the island to the ship from Arendelle. Meanwhile, Lord Rupert showed Kristoff around the island, including the nesting sites of the cute puffins. However, Kristoff did not want to spend the night in the castle the day before, because if he had bumped into the duke there by chance, the support would have been denied. Kristoff also decided to set sail on the Draba, as he didn't want to push his luck by asking for a passage on a ship from Weselton.

In the end, dozens of bales of hay, baskets of winter vegetables and a few sheep ready for slaughter were stowed in the Draba's hold, along with crates of wool to make warm blankets for the winter in Arendelle's capital.

Kristoff was very pleased with the successful outcome of his mission and the farewell was suitably warm. He promised to put in a good word with the queen in favour of Weselton to re-establish trade negotiations, but could make no promises beyond that. However, he thought the chances of the duke ever setting foot on Arendelle's soil again were very slim and wouldn't even bring it up there to avoid incurring any wrath.

At dawn the next day, the Draba cast off and somehow Kristoff was very glad to leave Weselton and return home, albeit much later than planned. Hopefully Anna wouldn't be angry with him in the end, but at least he would finish the love spoon by then and bring this cute little puffin figurine from the shop as an extra present.

~~~

Around the time the Draba left Weselton and was on its way to another island in the north-west, another ship arrived at its destination.

youtube

Master Fabian stood in the bow of the ARN Voyager and enjoyed the view of his old home, Corona.

Many thoughts flashed through his mind, old memories inevitably making their way back and making him feel both joy at his temporary return and a shudder that made the hair on his arms stand on end. An uneasy feeling crept up his spine to the back of his neck, because back then, decades ago, he had been a fugitive. About to be thrown into one of Corona's infamous dungeons! He remembered that the royal house had not exactly been squeamish with prisoners accused of murder and he had been sure that the Brotherhood had brought this very matter to the authorities.

He hadn't thought much about it before, even though he'd spent enough time on the Voyager for days, but now, at this breathtaking sight, he couldn't help but wonder what consequences he would face - if any. On the one hand, would anyone recognise him, and on the other, would he have to give his real name as soon as he set foot on land and presented his request for an audience with the royal family. After all, he had been sent on behalf of the Queen of Arendelle and not on his own initiative and just for fun here in Corona.

Fabian sighed; it would all work out somehow.

Commands were called on deck and the topsails were hoisted. The ship slowly glided towards one of the longest landing piers on the right-hand side of the huge arched bridge that connected the almost circular island to the mainland. Fabian had recognised seven piers around the island, but suspected that there were just as many on the far side of it. He had never been there himself, but perhaps there would be a good opportunity for a long walk in the next few days.

Every space on the island was tightly built up, with no room for parks or food growing areas. That was all over on the mainland and — as far as he remembered — this led to a constant back and forth of transport vehicles over the bridge or by boat. All the citizens on the island were more or less well-off and the wealth of Corona spoke from everything here, even the smallest details. The poorest and less well-off inhabitants had their homes and huts on the mainland and that was where even the dodgier characters hung out. One of their favourite meeting places was a disreputable tavern in the middle of the woods that not everyone knew about. Fabian had never been there himself, but as a child he had literally soaked up all the exciting stories about robbers and pirates that came to his ears.

Despite the time of year, the sunny weather here in the south was excellent and all the picturesque houses that wound their way up the high mountain to the royal castle shone in all their splendour. How Fabian had missed this beautiful sight and a broad smile stole across his face.

As they came closer, he could also clearly recognise the flags of the other tall ships. Most of them were unfamiliar to him, but some of the ships of various designs bore the emblems of some of the kingdoms with which Arendelle had trade relations, including two from Zaria and Vakretta. Even a beautiful ship from the distant desert kingdom of Eldora had docked here. Fanciful names adorned its bow and stern and he tried to make out details of the crew and other things on deck. It had all suddenly become so exciting for him.

Finally, the anchor rattled into the water and the crew prepared everything to take supplies on board for the onward journey. When the gangway was lowered, Fabian took a deep breath and was the first to disembark. From now on, he had to watch out like hell. His attentive eyes darted left and right, registering every reaction of those he passed as he walked slowly along the pier, standing tall and with the pride of an elderly fencing champion.

~~~

--- Note: my edit of Weselton Castle is based on a historical picture of Scalloway Castle on the Shetlands, colored by me. The added flag also is based on the real flag of the Shetlands. For me the location of Weselton seems to be the Shetland Islands in our real world.

Tagging: @true--north @annaofthenorthernlights @dronning-formynder05

#frozen #frozen2 #frozen3 #fanfic #epic novel #the broken bridge #chapter 78 #bigfrozenfan #Youtube

9 notes · View notes

bigfrozenfan-fanfics · 1 month

Text

Chapter 77 - Mari's burden

Links: Chapter overview, Character list, Map, Glossar Rating: M over all Publishing cycle: around every 2-3 weeks

youtube

While Elin was still sleeping soundly in her new cot, holding her doll close to her, Halima and Mattias set off for the orphanage. They had told her the previous evening that they would both be out of the house for about two hours in the morning and then go to school together. At least if Elin finally agreed. But the little girl was overjoyed with her new room and had hugged them both tightly after looking around and curiously touching many of the things here.

As usual, a few children were playing outside the orphanage when the general entered with his fiancée, who was hitched to him, and headed straight for the matron's office. Liv was sitting at her desk, engrossed in reading some documents.

Mattias cleared his throat discreetly after they had both stood there waiting for a few seconds. Liv raised her head and smiled at them.

“Hello, Halima … General Mattias. I wasn't expecting you two today and thought you might be coming to story time with Elin on Friday.”

“Hello, Liv,” Halima began, “We're here because there's news—,” “—and we want to sign the adoption documents,” Mattias continued. “Good morning, Liv.”

Liv looked a little surprised at first, but then smiled again, this time beaming with joy.

“I knew you'd love the little one from the start, but please have a seat.” Liv made an inviting gesture to the two chairs in front of her table. “I'm so glad that you want to adopt her now and, as I've already heard in town, you've become very good new parents for her and Elin feels very comfortable with you.”

“Yes, indeed she does. Even in the bakery, people ask me about her from time to time and what nice things I'm planning to do with her that day. Mr. Oddvar is always happy to see her when she comes to his library with Olaf.”

Then Halima began to talk about everything she had already discussed with Mattias and that they were going to visit the school with her today.

“Oh, I'm sure she'll feel very comfortable there soon, you two shouldn't worry about that. But I hope the first impression today will make Elin curious and she'll agree,” Liv replied.

“We hope so too, but we think this step is simply necessary now and we both, Destin and I, have to work during the day,” Halima explained. “Once she's settled in and maybe even made some new friends, things will be a lot easier for all of us.”

Liv nodded, “That's true, especially after you two get married. Has the date been set yet?”

Halima and Mattias looked at each other and he took her hand. “Next year, Liv, after the queen's official wedding. Maybe a week or so after that. We'll see … won't you, darling?”

“I wish you the best of luck! Now, shall we all get down to business and sign the document?”

~~~

When they both returned to Halima's house, Elin was already awake, sitting outside on the steps to the open front door and taking a hearty bite of a large apple.

“Hello, Elin, here we are again,” Halima called, waving, and the little girl immediately got up to run towards her.

“And we have very good news, Elin,” Mattias added as Halima hugged her, waving a sheet of parchment in front of her.

Elin looked up. “What is it?”

“We became your new parents this morning when we signed the adoption contract at Liv's earlier,” Mattias replied, “and it's official, little one!”

Halima knelt down in front of Elin and looked her lovingly in the eyes. “Hello, my dear and clever daughter, you can finally call us Mama and Papa!”

Elin's face lit up and Halima gave her a kiss on the cheek. When Mattias knelt down and stroked her hair tenderly, the girl hugged them both.

“I'm so happy…” She looked them both lovingly in the eyes in turn. “… Mama and Papa!”

~~~

On the way to the harbour, Elin ate the rest of the apple and looked at her mother, wondering what she should do with the rest. She didn't dare just throw the apple core on the street, because the little girl hadn't missed the fact that the whole town was always so clean and, apart from horse manure, there was never anything lying around.

“Give me that, Elin, we can throw the rest of the apple in the grass over there, I'm sure it will rot very quickly. But you took good care, I'm proud of you,” said Halima.

“Who actually cleans up everything that the horses drop?” asked Elin as she placed the core house in her open hand.

“There are people whose job it is to keep everything in the city clean,” she replied. “Every morning, these people drive through the streets with a cart and collect these horse apples. That's what the previous king and queen decided back then.”

“Horses … apples?” Elin asked in astonishment.

“Agnarr ordered that back then, Halima?” asked Mattias afterwards.

“The horses' manure is called that, my dear Elin. By the way, even I sometimes collect it from the street as fertiliser for my cold frames in the garden,” she replied, leaning down to Elin with a smile, then turned to Mattias, “I think that was more Queen Iduna's decision, Destin. ”

They both nodded thoughtfully.

Then they reached the junction to the school and could already hear the laughter of the children playing on the small arched bridge, trying to catch a fish with a thin rope and a hook. They didn't pay any attention to Elin, they were so busy, but Elin watched the children playing all the more. She looked at them curiously as they walked past until they entered the classroom.

The teacher was sitting at her desk in front of a large blackboard on the wall behind her and there were low tables with a chair in front of them all around the room. On each one were a few books, sheets of paper and writing utensils. On the walls were colourful drawings and various other illustrations. Elin looked around curiously and leafed through one of these books while her parents went to the teacher and spoke to her.

“Elin, will you come here? The teacher would like to meet you,” Halima called out after a while.

Elin closed the book and walked slowly to the front. She and the teacher, who was still quite young and pretty too, as Elin thought, looked at each other curiously until the girl stopped in front of the table.

“Hello, Elin, I'm Mrs Halverson and I'm the teacher at this school,” she greeted and Elin returned a somewhat shy 'hello'.

Mrs Halverson smiled and said, “You don't need to be afraid, Elin. Your adoptive parents told me you came from the orphanage and would like to go to school? Well, I'm very happy about that and I'm sure the other children will be too, when they have a new playmate and can learn together with her. At the moment there's a break before lessons start, but of course you don't have to decide straight away. Or you could just sit over there by the window and listen to everything. Well, what do you think?”

Elin didn't say anything back and instead looked up questioningly at Halima, who put a hand on her shoulder encouragingly. “Answer the teacher yourself, Elin.”

“Well … I'm curious, but I'd like my parents to stay there too. Is that possible?”

“Well, normally parents aren't allowed to be here during lessons, Elin. Hmm … Could you leave us alone for a few minutes? You can go outside and watch the other children while we talk, yes?”

Elin nodded and strolled towards the entrance.

When she was gone, Mrs Halverson asked about her background, her age and whether she could read and write. Halima and Mattias took it in turns to tell her everything in brief, as they didn't want to keep the little girl waiting too long. Besides, the lesson would start in a quarter of an hour. Mrs Halverson was moved by Elin's story and promised to take good care of her if she became her new pupil.

Halima then brought the girl back and teacher Halverson suggested that she should sit at the last table by the window. From there, she would certainly get a better impression of everything if she simply pretended to be part of the class. Mrs Halverson would explain it to the students and was very curious to see everyone's reactions.

When Elin had taken her seat, Halima and Mattias stood next to her for a moment before they were about to leave.

“Elin, we'll stay close by and have a coffee at Oakens near the harbour. Afterwards, we'll pick you up again in an hour or so, all right? You really don't need to be afraid if you're here on your own for a while. I'm sure it will be very interesting and you don't have to take part in the lessons yourself yet, just watch and listen,” said Halima

“But you have to promise me one thing, my little girl,” Mattias added and laughed. “Try to have fun!”

Elin nodded several times, said “I will!” and waved to them as they disappeared through the entrance. Shortly afterwards, a bell rang somewhere and one by one many children poured in. They all eyed the new pupil curiously before sitting down at their desks after greeting the teacher and opening the chapter in their books announced by Mrs Halverson. Elin also had one on her table and followed the example of the others.

And so began Elin's first trial school day.

~~~

Kristoff enjoyed the voyage on the Draba, especially looking after Sven, who was a little nervous about taking a long sea voyage on rough seas for the first time. Kristoff wondered what Anna was doing right now, and he bet that with winter approaching and the annual events in Arendelle at this time of year, she might be planning the upcoming competitions in the capital. He thought back to his ice carving competition with Anna and Elsa, and then a brilliant idea suddenly came to his mind as he remembered his conversation with Anna under the old willow tree before they unleashed their deepest passion.

She had told him what King Agnarr did to propose to his loved girl, Iduna, presenting her with a self-carved love spoon. Kristoff was a little sad because he had missed the opportunity to do the same for Anna because of the emergency wedding a few days ago. It was a little late, of course, but as a special gift it would still make Anna very happy; he thought, so better late than never. He could carve it now, here on the ship, right now!

He grinned. All he needed now was a piece of wood and that was certainly available from one of the carpenters here on the ship. He had his jackknife in his boot and two days at sea should be enough to make the spoon. Actually, twice as many days, because the return journey was still ahead of him; he corrected himself.

“Sven, I'm just going below deck to see one of the carpenters. I've just had a great idea for a present for Anna. I'll be right back.”

Sven looked after him and then put his head back on his front legs to continue dozing.

The carpenter was a little taken aback by Kristoff's desire, but he couldn't refuse His Highness such a request. So he sawed off a suitably large piece from one of the spare beams intended for the mizzen boom and handed it to Kristoff.

Back on deck, Kristoff visualised the shape and immediately began to carve the first rough outlines on the wood. Not so easy when you've never done anything like this before; he mused, but he was confident and preferred to work slowly and accurately.

Kristoff was so focussed on his work that he didn't even notice the tip of his tongue playing at the corner of his mouth, causing one of the sailors walking past to grin broadly.

~~~

youtube

At the same time, on an Arendelle road …

Elsa, Anna and Mari were sitting in a royal carriage on the way to the royal Summerhus, where the two sisters had spent many summers with their parents when they were young. It was Anna who had made the suggestion and Elsa had enthusiastically agreed. Mari was to be one of the few people outside the royal family ever to be invited there today and she was very honoured accordingly.

“We've never picked mushrooms there before, but if my memory serves me right, the woods there were full of them,” Anna said, explaining her choice of picking location.

“Yes, I think you're right. Mama and Papa have certainly collected mushrooms there too, I'm almost sure of it,” said Elsa, trying to remember how they used to play explorers with Anna in the big forest, at some point convinced they were lost and then climbed a tree to find their bearings. In the end, they saw their parents sitting in the grass of a large meadow just a stone's throw away, having a picnic. Elsa had to giggle as she recalled this scene.

“What are you laughing about?” asked Anna, “I want to be able to laugh with you.”

Elsa told her and Anna grinned. “Oh yes, it was funny how surprised we were back then, thinking we'd never find our way back.”

“I was afraid that our parents would be angry with us if they had to look for us.”

“Maybe even in the middle of the night,” Anna imagined and Elsa nodded.

Mari hadn't said much so far and the sisters realised this almost simultaneously. They both looked at her, who was looking out of the carriage window opposite them, but her gaze revealed that she wasn't looking at the passing scenery, but seemed to be somewhere else entirely, thinking about something that was perturbing her a lot.

“Are you all right, Mari? You look so … I don't know … almost scared?” Anna asked, raising an eyebrow in surprise.

Mari's head jerked to the side and she looked clearly caught off guard.

Now Elsa was worried too. “You do have something, Mari,” she said with her eyebrows furrowed and leant forward a little. “It's plain to see.”

Mari looked at them both in turn and then sighed, “Yes, it's true. I'm actually very worried and even very terrified about it.”

“What is it that worries you so much?” Elsa asked curiously and Anna added, “Is there anything we can do to help?”

“I don't think so and that really annoys me, because I'm probably all alone with this problem and no one is able to help me out of it. A miracle would have to happen!”

“So now you've really unsettled us both. Do you want to talk about it or at least hint at what it's all about?” Elsa asked with a worried undertone and gently placed a hand on Mari's knee opposite her.

She looked at her seriously, determined to help in whatever way she could, because Mari was a good friend to both of them. Anna in particular was very close to her, who now had an equally serious expression on her face and, listening attentively, waited for Mari's explanation.

“All right … I'll tell you, but please take this seriously, because that's what it is for me and it really isn't a joke.” Mari had to swallow before she continued with quivering lips. “Father wants me to…,” she had to pause for a moment because her emotions were starting to boil up again. She took a deep breath and then spilled the beans. “Father wants to marry me off … to some prince or other profitable suitor.”

“Wait, what?” Anna blurted out, completely taken aback, and Elsa's mouth fell open.

“Yes, it's true. As princess, I am the heir to the throne and therefore obliged to act for the good of the kingdom and … its profit,” she spat out the last word, “to take a prince from another kingdom as my husband. Father is firmly convinced that Vesterland needs a male heir to the throne after me. And I … shall bear him.”

The sisters were too perplexed and shocked to answer immediately. Instead, they could only stare at Mari.

“Does she really have to, Elsa?” Anna asked, looking helplessly at her sister.

“I don't know, Anna, I'd say other kingdoms, other rules … maybe.”

“But that's so unfair,” said Anna, shaking her head in a tone of conviction.

“Yes, exactly, I think so too, Anna! Just because Father thinks he can decide that just like that … without any warning. We're not living in the days of the founding fathers, are we?” Mari replied, a tear rolling down her cheek.

Anna immediately sat down next to her, gave her a comforting hug and looked over at Elsa. “There just has to be a solution, doesn't there, sis?”

“Who does your father have in mind? Which prince from which kingdom?” Elsa asked instead.

“I don't know his name and I don't know what he looks like. All I know is that it's probably a powerful kingdom and he's one of thirteen heirs,” Mari replied.

The sisters froze and Mari could feel it clearly in Anna's suddenly tense hand on her shoulder. Mari looked at her shocked face.

“What…?” she asked.

“The southern isles … a Westergaard!” Anna then blurted out. “Oh my God!”

Elsa's features had hardened at Mari's revelation and she pinched her lips together until they were just a line.

“We will seek and find a solution, Mari, be sure! Having a Westergaard prince in the immediate vicinity of Arendelle as the new king of Vesterland is simply unacceptable! We have a say in that too,” said Elsa quietly, but with deep conviction.

“If it's Hans, then even more so …,” Anna murmured quietly with her head bowed.

“Hans? You know one of them, Anna?” Mari asked in astonishment, wiping a tear from her face.

“Oh yes, Mari, we both know him. Four and a half years ago, he wanted to kill us and take the throne of Arendelle by himself!” Elsa replied angrily.

“He almost succeeded,” added Anna.

“Hans was thrown into the brig of the next ship after his failed coup and banished from Arendelle. Since then, we have severed all trade relations with the southern isles. Perhaps I should have let him freeze into a block of ice back then …”

“But then there would have been war, sis. No matter what he tried to do to us,” Anna replied and Elsa nodded.

Mari had looked open-mouthed at both of them in turn and was more than just amazed at how much the sisters had to say about it and what a terrible experience they'd had.

“You can't trust a Westergaard, Mari, and we'll do everything in our power to convince your father and put a little pressure on him if necessary. But either way, I hope there is another way to convince King Jonas not to inflict such a fate on you. I'll look into it and investigate as soon as we get back to the castle tonight. I promise, Mari!”

“And I'll help you with that, Elsa,” Anna said firmly, planting a fist in her side.

“Thank you both. But now tell me what happened back then. I want to know everything!” said Mari and grabbed the sisters' hands.

~~~

As promised, Mattias and Halima picked Elin up from school an hour later.

“So, how was the class, little girl? Did you like it?” asked Mattias, after taking one of Elin's hands and Halima's other to walk the girl home between them.

“Yes, it was very interesting and I had a lot of fun. The other children have … homework from Miss Halverson and they have to draw a picture at home until next time.”

“Oh, that makes me very happy, Elin,” Halima said with a smile and gave Mattias a meaningful sideways glance. “What kind of picture do you want it to be?”

“How we imagine the future. I also got a note for you from the teacher,” Elin replied, briefly letting go of her new dad's hand and pulling a folded piece of paper out of the sleeve of her dress to give to Halima. She then took Mattia's hand again and smiled. “I want you to get me some things.”

“Wait, does that mean you've decided to go to school now?” he asked in amazement.

“Yes, I think so. The other children have been friendly to me too and some around me have even whispered curious questions to me during lessons about who I am and stuff.”

Halima smiled broadly and Mattias nodded in approval. “See, I told you, it's all half as bad. I'm happy for you.”

“And so am I,” Halima added and they both felt the girl's handshake increase in wordless acknowledgement, while Elin again made little leaps of joy between them.

~~~

Once everyone was home, they explained to the girl that they both had to work now, but would be back in the late afternoon. At least Halima would. Mattias reckoned it would be a longer day, but promised to be back for dinner at the latest.

Elin had no problem with this and hurried to her room to start on the mentioned painting straight away.

Halima and Mattias briefly discussed who would get the school supplies on the note and then they said goodbye with a kiss and a happy hug over Elin's decision.

While Halima made a small diversions to run errands before starting her workday at Hudson's Hearth, Mattias headed to the castle. Today he wanted to organise the arrests of the three war criminals. He hoped that they had not yet suspected anything and that the witness was safe, as Fabian had assured him.

They'll make eyes at him, he thought to himself as he crossed the castle bridge.

Shortly afterwards, Captain Einar was briefed and three teams of guards were formed to arrest all three simultaneously if possible. One of them was to find out the whereabouts of each of them unnoticed before they struck.

It ended up being easier than expected, as all three war criminals were sitting together in a tavern having lunch.

~~~

youtube

“What do you mean it's going to be cramped in the dungeon now?” Mattias asked the captain after his comment. “Surely there's enough room for three people, even if not too much.”

“Four, General, we've already had a suspect in there for five days who is under interrogation on suspicion of aiding and abetting treason.”

“Another one? Why don't I know anything about this? Who is it?”

Einar explained to him and also that unfortunately nothing could be proven against him so far. “I want to soften him up and put him under pressure,” he added. “I have strong doubts about his excuses so far and he's very cunning in proclaiming his innocence.”

“I see,” Mattias mused. “Perhaps that will help when Monrad's brother Albert realises what company he suddenly finds himself in in the small cell. An innocent man would protest and want out immediately. But if he is guilty and the accusations against him are correct, then perhaps he will chat, because he is likely to feel quite uncomfortable in the presence of three soldiers of the Crown. They are facing trial and have nothing to lose now. For their loyalty to the royal house, the three of them even walked over a dead body by executing the enemy in the most brutal manner.”

“Perhaps the guard who brings Albert his food every day should drop a note to that effect,” mused Einar.

“Excellent idea and definitely worth a try, Captain Einar. That's how we do it.”

~~~

“Lunch, prisoner!” said one of the two guards to Monrad's brother after the other had loudly unlocked the door to the cell and was now holding it wide open for him.

He placed the tray next to the prisoner on the cot and Albert once again wrinkled his nose at the sight. The food wasn't bad, but it was very simple and lovelessly prepared. He knew Olina's cooking skills from his visits during the wine delivery and the tasting by Kai. But the dish on the tray had definitely been prepared by someone else and was not at all to Albert's discerning palate.

“You'll have high-ranking company today, Albert, and you'll have to make some room, because there are three soldiers of the crown and even a veteran officer among them,” the guard remarked, grinning mischievously.

“What are they being accused of?” Albert asked, seemingly calmly and with an inconspicuous expression on his face, but a slight panic rose up inside him. Was this a dirty trick by Einar? For the life of him, Albert couldn't imagine why these three and an officer among them would end up with him in the dungeon.

“What are they accused of? Phew … they're here for a war crime. They allegedly brutally tortured an enemy at the Misty Pass and then hung him from a tree until he was dead. They're not to be trifled with if that's true, that's for sure. You'd better eat up quickly, because they're about to be brought down.”

The guard made room for a third guard, who manoeuvred another cot in, then loudly slammed it on the floor and kicked it against the wall before leaving the cell again with an annoyed look on his face. Albert swallowed and could only stare in bewilderment.

“Have fun,” the guard said with a grin as he walked out and slammed the door behind him.

He was now alone again, but he had lost his appetite after this announcement. If this guy told the three new arrivals that he was here on suspicion of aiding and abetting treason, then his worries were justified. The colour slowly drained from his face.

~~~

Kristoff's stomach rebelled when, unexpectedly for him, the Draba ran into rapidly increasing, heavy swells near the dark sea. The ship swayed and plunged in and out of wave troughs at steep angles. Spray splashed over the railing, submerging the entire deck in a matter of seconds. It wasn't a real thunderstorm, but the wind and the whipped-up waves were still strong enough to frighten an inexperienced passenger.

The sailors had their hands full lashing the equipment to the deck, adjusting the rigging to the weather conditions and holding on tight so that they weren't washed overboard. It was enough to make you sick just watching.

Normally Kristoff had no problems travelling by ship, but this was a voyage on the high seas and in notoriously treacherous waters. Sven was just as bad, if not worse, than Kristoff felt at the moment, as he could clearly see. He had stowed his carving under his gakti and was now helping Sven to his feet. Then he called for help to get the reindeer to safety below deck. He couldn't do it alone and twice it threw them both off their feet.

“You shouldn't have waited so long to go below deck, Your Highness. The weather can change extremely quickly on the high seas,” said a sailor who rushed to help and now called for more sailors. Sven vomited with a heart-rending, wailing sound and Kristoff unfortunately couldn't do much to help him. It literally tore at his heart to see Sven like this. Kristoff therefore wrapped his arms around the reindeer's neck and tried to calm him down somehow.

Luckily for Kristoff and Sven, the companionway below deck was only a few steps away and after a few minutes of joint effort, five of them got Sven down to safety.

Of course, the ups and downs were just as noticeable below deck, only here you didn't get a constant shower of salt water. Nevertheless, the water dripped and sloshed in near the stairs. In contrast to the massive figure of the reindeer, Kristoff could at least climb into a hammock, which made the rocking a little more comfortable. However, Sven slid back and forth on the planks with every violent movement of the ship and of course couldn't hold on to anything like a human, and it was just as impossible for him to climb into one of those hanging mats. But Kristoff wouldn't be Kristoff if he cared more about his friend than himself.

So he got some ropes from the end of the sleeping deck as quickly as possible and secured Sven as best he could. He then lay down next to him and talked him through it.

Sven looked at him pitifully but also gratefully, because Kristoff wasn't leaving him alone right now.

Kristoff hoped it would all be over soon and his whole body shivered from the cold of the icy water that had soaked him on the unprotected deck. He grabbed a couple of blankets from two hammocks nearby, rubbed Sven dry as best he could and then undressed himself to wrap himself in the dry, warm fabric. Kristoff was used to the cold in the mountains, especially when harvesting ice, but icy cold water that seemed to penetrate to the bone was new to him and made his teeth chatter.

~~~

youtube

The sisters hadn't been back to their parents' Summerhus for what felt like an eternity. Too much had happened in recent years and they hadn't had time to look after it and reminisce about old memories. At least a trusted person from the nearby small village came around a few times a month, kept the house clean and tidy and stoked the stove in winter so that everything didn't freeze. There was also always a forester nearby who acted as a guard and regularly patrolled the neighbourhood.

While Elsa and Anna recounted their tiresome experiences with one of the Westergaards royals to Mari, who was very curious for good reason, the carriage bumped along winding forest paths, not far from the capital, past tall conifers and increasingly mountain spruce as the terrain became higher. The unmistakable scent of scattered cedars wafted in through the window and Elsa remembered very well that her mother loved that smell as she inhaled deeply and smiled.

At some point they passed through a tiny village, drove past a small, traditionally built stave church onto the market square and shortly afterwards over bumpy cobblestones that wound their way up to the Summerhus. The coachman drove in a semi-circle up to the entrance and shouted a loud “Brr” as a command for the horses to stop. They gave a grateful snort as the carriage came to a halt.

“We're here,” Elsa announced, still smiling.

“Here again at last,” Anna added, “after so many years.” She looked cheerfully at her sister and Elsa nodded knowingly.

They heard the coachman jump off the trestle, then the sound of him folding down the side steps and finally he opened the door for his royal passengers to alight.

“Our honoured guest first, please,” Elsa said to Mari and pointed outside with an inviting gesture.

Mari nodded curtly and got out first.

The sight was not quite what she had expected, for the Summerhus was a log cabin built entirely of sturdy wooden beams, with bright red decorations and a roof completely covered in sod, leaving only the brick chimney protruding.

All around stood squat spruce trees and in front of the entrance was a mown meadow where they now stood. But the fact that this was the royal summer residence was unmistakable. The front door was adorned with a relief of Arendelle's emblem and the crocus symbol was emblazoned on a wooden semicircle directly above it. The Summerhus looked very cosy and rustic with its mullioned windows and the flower boxes in front of it. Mari couldn't help but smile.

“I like your Summerhus,” she said as the sisters stood next to her and the coachman audibly closed the door behind them. “It looks so …”

“… cosy?” Anna added with a grin and Mari nodded.

“Yes, it does indeed. It's a lovely refuge.”

“Well, let's go inside and make ourselves comfortable before we go into the forest to collect,” said Elsa, who was already holding the front door key in her hands.

At that moment, an elderly man came out of the forest, who turned out to be the forester who regularly passed by the house.

He greeted everyone in a friendly manner and gave the sisters a brief report of what had happened so far. But there was nothing serious to report, because apart from a few animals sneaking around the house in search of food, only two travellers had passed by a few weeks ago and peered curiously through the windows. However, he kindly asked them to move on. After his report, he said goodbye again and disappeared into the forest.

Elsa unlocked the entrance and pushed the heavy door inwards. When she touched it, another memory immediately flashed through Elsa's mind: when she and Anna were little, they always had to push this thick door open in pairs because it was too heavy for one girl alone. She paused for a moment and felt Anna's hand on her shoulder. Elsa looked at her smiling face.

“I've just remembered that too, Elsa. There are a lot of memories waiting for us in there.”

Inside, everything was dark and only the light from the entrance illuminated the living room with its central table. The sisters first opened the windows to fold the shutters outwards and let in a little more light. Elsa then lit the oil lamps and Anna took care of the large fireplace. There was still plenty of wood and so it only took a few minutes for her to get the fire going. A cosy warmth immediately spread through the cold room and it instantly became more comfortable.

Everything looked just as the sisters remembered it, nothing seemed to be missing or had been rearranged. It was as if they had left the house only yesterday and just as clean, only many, many years had passed. They looked at each other meaningfully and while Mari looked around curiously, Elsa and Anna did what they always did first back then. They each lit a candle by the fire and hurried upstairs to their child's room under the gable.

Here, too, everything was just as they had left it. With a tiny difference. Their two favourite dolls, which were usually in the little toy chest next to Elsa's bed, were now lying on the pillows of their beds. They both put their candles in the holders on the little table next to them and lifted their dolls up.

“Oh, Elsa, if only Mama and Papa were here now,” Anna said quietly and tears began to gather in her eyes as she held her stuffed double to her chest.

Elsa went to her and took her in her arms.

“I miss her so much too, Anna,” she said softly in her ear and the image of the figure from the shipwreck stole into her mind, but she immediately suppressed it with narrowed eyes and focussed on her younger sister's feelings again.

“I remember that time so well and somehow it feels like Mama is downstairs in the kitchen right now, making tea for us and about to call upstairs 'Tea's ready, are you two coming?'. She tried to imitate Iduna's voice and Elsa laughed softly.

“Yes, that's right … that's exactly what she used to call out, just like that.”

Then Anna could no longer hold back and she sobbed unrestrainedly into Elsa's shoulder. Her body shook and Elsa held her a little tighter, stroked her hair and whispered, “It's all right, Anna, it's all right. Let it all out … just let go.”

~~~

youtube

In the meantime, Mari looked at the oil paintings on the wall, which depicted some of Anna's and Elsa's ancestors, and occasionally picked up a beautiful gem from the shelf to take a closer look. A handsome collection of valuable plates were lined up on a high shelf and a handful of violins hung ready to play in holders on the wall. Books and family games were stacked in the corners. Mari could well imagine how the sisters had played together with their parents at this table when they were children and were happy.

Mari suddenly realised what a great favour the sisters had done her with this invitation, what great trust they had placed in her to share these highly personal memories with her. She wondered who had played these instruments on the wall for them and guessed their father. A very personal insight into the life of a king! She looked around again. Everything here radiated love! The love of the regents of Arendelle for their children, who presumably left their duties behind for several weeks a year just to spend time together with their daughters, completely undisturbed. Here in this lovingly furnished house, which served only one purpose … to be together as a family.

“Well, this is what it looks like in our cosy Summerhus. Living room, kitchen and two bedrooms upstairs. Nothing special really, but every square centimeter here is full of memories, Mari,” Elsa explained behind her as she returned quietly and unnoticed.

Mari flinched a little, startled, and let out a sharp cry when the large grandfather clock suddenly struck loudly.

“Oh my goodness!” Mari exclaimed with one hand pressed to her heart and Elsa giggled.

“Sorry, I should have warned you. But strange, someone from the cleaning staff must have wound it up regularly. That wasn't their job at all, I don't think.”

“That's all right, I should have guessed, after all, you can't miss the clock. Is Anna still upstairs? I heard a staircase creak earlier.”

“No, she's in the kitchen preparing tea for us, I'm sure she'll be here soon.”

What Elsa didn't tell her was that her sister also wanted to clean her face because she had been crying and didn't want Mari to see it. Elsa fetched cups and saucers and a warmer from the shelf and prepared the table.

Two minutes later, Anna came in with a teapot and a small kettle, which she hung on a hook by the fireplace and swivelled over the flames. She then placed the pot on the warmer and sat down. The room was now cosy and warm and she leaned back comfortably on the high, upholstered chair.

“It's so nice and quiet and cosy here. I can well imagine how you can hear the birds chirping here in summer when the windows are open. A place to relax, to get away from the daily hustle and bustle and worries,” Mari realised and also sat down at the table.

“And the summer meadow behind the trees in the clearing is lovely when the weather is nice, ideal for a picnic on the grass, with all the wildflowers and even a field of sunflowers further down,” Anna enthused.

”Her favourite flower,” Elsa added with a grin as she also sat down and Anna nodded thoughtfully.

“Can't wait to go outside later and pick mushrooms in our adventure forest. I've found a few baskets in the kitchen and have already prepared them for us with three small knives and some cloths,” said Anna, smiling in anticipation and crossing her arms behind her head.

Anna behaved almost as if she was still young and looking forward to reliving the old days, Elsa mused with a small smile. But Elsa allowed her these thoughts and also to completely forget for a day that she was now the Queen of Arendelle. Anna deserved to have some fun and feel young again.

“But first, let's have a nice cup of tea. Then in the afternoon we can warm up here again and maybe even play one of the old board games,” Elsa suggested, casting a sideways glance into one of the corners of the room with its many games.

“I'd rather just chat with you two,” Mari replied, “now that I have a lot of time for you and no one will miss me for the next few days.”

“You're right, Mari. Let's not waste the day playing games and instead share our thoughts, that's more important now,” Elsa said and fetched the kettle to pour the tea.

Anna looked at Mari and nodded in understanding. Just chatting to each other didn't have to mean that they couldn't have fun together.

~~~

They set off about an hour later. Elsa put a few wood logs on the fire and Anna fetched the baskets from the kitchen.

They walked northwards to where the forest was thicker and simply followed their noses. As they walked comfortably side by side in no great hurry, soaking up the smells of the forest and listening to the birds twittering in the treetops above them, they told each other stories and their experiences over the last few months since Mari's last visit to the city. But they all kept their eyes open and looked behind every large tree on their way so as not to miss any edible mushrooms. Anna was the first to spot a promising patch near a clearing ahead and quickly ran to it, eventually shouting back that she had found lots of mushrooms. Elsa and Mari followed her and then spread out among the trees around this small clearing. Everyone was now fully occupied with collecting and it didn't take very long before everyone had an almost full basket. Afterwards, they made their way back to the Summerhus.

“I'm already looking forward to Olina's mushroom soup tonight,” said Anna, licking her lips in anticipation.

“But there are far too many for the three of us,” said Elsa, “you should take a basket full home with you, Mari, and treat your father to something tasty too. I can well imagine that he doesn't come to pick mushrooms himself or think about sending someone else out to do it. I'm sure he'll be delighted with your find, and who knows, maybe it'll be a good opportunity to talk to him in peace about your future as you imagine it. I hope that we will have found a solution for you by then and that he will at least seriously reconsider his plans for you.”

Mari looked very sceptical, but replied, “I hope so.”

~~~

---

Tagging: @true--north @annaofthenorthernlights @dronning-formynder05

#frozen #frozen2 #frozen3 #fanfic #epic novel #the broken bridge #chapter 77 #bigfrozenfan #Youtube

18 notes · View notes

bigfrozenfan-fanfics · 2 months

Text

Chapter 76 - Kristoff at the Royal Navy base

Links: Chapter overview, Character list, Map, Glossar Rating: M over all Publishing cycle: around every 2-3 weeks

youtube

Eriksen and Kristoff talked for more than an hour as they looked around the fortress inside. Kristoff was also taken to the very top of the roof, where he had a good view of the whole area. Kristoff had never been to the naval base before and was quite impressed by everything here. Eriksen promised to take him round the small peninsula later and show him everything, including the shipyard. However, there was one exception, as Eriksen said, because Kristoff was not allowed to enter the prison camp. But that didn't bother him, as he wasn't interested in seeing Arendelle's criminals.

A little later, they returned downstairs and into the admiral's large office. Kristoff couldn't help but take a look around. The walls were piled high with books on nautical science, shipbuilding and reports on other countries and kingdoms. Many pictures about the sea, ships and foreign islands hung on the walls and, of course, certificates of the admiral’s achievements, including a captain's licence. All bearing the seal of the royal house of Arendelle and even signed by King Agnarr, as Kristoff noted.

“So, what is the reason for your presence on the base?” asked Eriksen, watching him from his armchair.

Kristoff sat down opposite him in another chair and rambled on a little. He talked about the queen's plan to form a new royal council and that the Baron of Snoob had tipped him off to include the naval base in his search.

“I don't know if you can help me there, Admiral Eriksen. But it seems to me that matters concerning the Royal Navy should be represented on the council. After all, two ships are currently on their way to allied kingdoms on behalf of the queen to help us out of the supply crisis and ask for support there.”

“Yes, I am of course aware of this assignment and have known the two captains personally for many years. They are good men and ideally suited for such an important mission,” replied Eriksen, “However, we hardly have any potential candidates for the royal council here at the naval base. Most of the sailors work as specialists in the shipyard, are in captain's training or other important positions for our fleet, or are simply ship's crews. The rest are guards or are busy with the prison camp and of course those who are only responsible for supplies and everything that goes with it, so they don't have much nautical experience.” He paused for a moment and thought.

“Our base is actually set up like a small town where everyone does normal jobs. We have blacksmiths, rope and sail makers, bakers, butchers, the laundry, various craftsmen and of course everything else that goes with nautical and ship supplies. The only people I can think of for the council are our veterans, who are now retired and have gained a lot of experience in their lives. I will of course think carefully about your request and talk to them. However, not everyone is likely to be interested and want to change their lives so drastically. Quite apart from the fact that the families here or over there also live in Snoob, especially the children who can only attend school there. That affects most of us here on the peninsula, by the way.”

“I can understand that very well,” said Kristoff. “It was just an idea and not binding. The queen selects the most suitable men and women from all the candidates from across the kingdom after they have personally auditioned.”

Eriksen nodded. “Very well, may I offer you some refreshments before we go to the shipyard?”

“No, thank you, admiral. But I have another request and Her Majesty doesn't know anything about it yet. It is to be a surprise for her and it would be my personal decision to take care of it. It's also a somewhat sensitive issue for a reason.”

“Well, that depends on whether I can help you. What is it about?”

“I wanted to ask if I could get passage on a ship to Weselton.”

The Admiral raised his eyebrows and placed his index fingers against each other in front of his mouth with a thoughtful expression, tapped them against his lips a few times and mumbled a quiet “Hmm…”.

“Weselton … I assume it's about the same problem, the supply of food and animal feed in the capital, right?” Kristoff nodded. “Well, Weselton isn't too big an island and they import more than they have to offer. Except wool and sheep, as far as I know, and fine cloth, which they sell at a premium. I once had the dubious pleasure of meeting the Duke there many years ago. Do you know him?”

Kristoff cradled his head. "I met him once years ago, at one of Arendelle's sled races where he cheated. Other than that, not in person, no, but I know the stories about him and why trade with this kingdom was stopped a few years ago … because of that Duke. He must have been quite out of line back then and also had a very …”

“… greedy and unfriendly behaviour? Yes, that suits this little chap. However, his nephew Lord Rupert Wolfgang is much more sociable and even quite helpful, the complete opposite of the old Duke. However, his behaviour takes some getting used to, not to say annoying. It seems to run in the family.” Eriksen laughed softly. “But still, if you're going to get in touch with anyone there, you'd better do it with him.”

“That's interesting, I didn't know that. Thank you very much for this valuable information!” said Kristoff in surprise. “But, the passage … can you help me with that? However, Sven, my reindeer, and my carriage would also have to be on board, if possible, as I plan to disembark directly in Arendelles harbour on the return journey.”

“Normally, we don't offer ship journeys for strangers, no matter how much they would be prepared to pay, but that doesn't apply to you, Your Highness, of course. I think I already have the right ship in mind for you and also for your luggage, so to speak,” he smiled.

~~~

youtube

After Mattias knocked on Halima's front door and she opened it for him, she fell into his arms with tears of joy in her eyes. It was still broad daylight in Arendelle, but next they both disappeared into the bedroom, tore off their clothes and made love, tenderly and intimately, as if it were the first time for both of them. They were able to take their time, as Elin was still at the castle and had her usual lessons with Olaf. Halima wasn't due to pick her up again until the afternoon and had been working in her room in the meantime. Until her beloved Destin suddenly appeared at the door.

A little later, she prepared lunch for them both. Nothing special and consisting mainly of leftovers that were still in the kitchen and the icebox on the floor and, of course, a few fresh ingredients from the garden. But that didn't matter to either of them, because they were finally together again and had a lot to talk about. But Mattias avoided going into detail about some of the things he had seen and experienced, as he didn't want to frighten Halima.

“I'm so glad that nothing happened to you, Destin, and that you didn't suffer any more serious injuries. There's no bandage and not even a scratch to be seen.”

“I was very lucky, to be honest. A lot of men have had a very different experience. We've had so many losses, Halima, but I'd rather not talk about it right now.” He sighed and grabbed her hand on the table.

“I saw the grief in the city and also saw the many wounded in the new hospital. I wanted to help in some way. The queen even gave a moving speech at the memorial service. But I can't and don't want to imagine it all and I was most afraid for you all the time, darling. Thank you for this beautiful but really sad letter, by the way.”

“You cried a lot, didn't you?” She nodded and put her other hand over his. “I was afraid of that, but I was also afraid to tell you everything in person.”

“It's all over now and you've come back to us safe and sound.”

“Let's just stop talking about it, Halima, and think about the good things instead. You said that you carried on upstairs in Elin's room. I'd like to take a look at that.”

“I'd love to, Destin. Let's go upstairs now. I also got her something to paint and hung up some pictures. I hope she likes it. I just finished it earlier and we could pick her up together later and then go out for dinner for the three of us, what do you say?”

“Sounds good. She's never been to dinner with us before, so it could be a bit of an adventure for her.”

“Oh yes, you're right, Destin,” she replied as she slowly climbed the stairs and he followed.

The room was now tidy and very clean, the windows had also been cleaned and it no longer smelled as stale as before. There was no more dust in the air and a fresh, cool breeze blew in through the open windows. Elin's bed now even had a canopy over it and her doll, which Mattias had got for her, was lying directly on her pillow.

A few picture books were piled up on a small round table with a low chair in front of it, as well as colouring materials next to a small easel that Halima had used herself many years ago. She had only had to replace the paint because the old pots had dried up long ago. Halima had hung the pictures she had painted and some photographs on a few more hooks on the sloping roof walls. All in all, the room now radiated warmth and cosiness.

“I'm impressed, dear, you've done everything really beautifully. Elin will be thrilled, I'm sure of it.”

“You know, Destin, I've been thinking about her a lot. Since she's been with us and Olaf has been teaching her to read and write in the castle, and she's even been allowed to meet the queen in person, she's changed a lot. She is no longer as shy as she used to be in the orphanage. Quite the opposite. She has opened up a lot and doesn't even seem to think about her bad past anymore.”

“Have you ever heard her cry at night? You don't forget memories like that so quickly and who knows, maybe she dreams about it at night and just doesn't want to show us or doesn't dare to talk about it.”

“Maybe, but I haven't heard anything like that yet, not even in the castle. Maybe she's banished it all to her innermost depths, who can say. But I think she's ready and …”

“… can go to school and get to know lots of strange children around her?”

“Yes, Destin, that's right. You took the words right out of my mouth. She is friendly to everyone she meets without fear, is curious and eager to learn. She wants to learn, Destin, and she's good at it. Elin has a really good grasp of things and understands many things more quickly than other children her age. I think interacting with children she doesn't know is the next important step for her, because she still needs to learn that too, and she's also getting to know the other children's games, which is also very important.”

“Yes, you're certainly right, dear. I just hope the other kids won't tease her too much.”

“It'll be fine, Destin. Besides, we can't look after her all day and Elin can't be in and out of the royal castle all the time. You'll be busy at the council and with other things during the day and I need to get back to work at Hudson's Hearth. She'll be studying at school and won't be able to be with a magical snowman all the time. Instead, she'll make new friends of her age and play and learn with them.”

“Then let's go to the orphanage first thing in the morning and sign the contract with Liv for the adoption. And tonight, after dinner, we'll ask Elin very carefully what she thinks about the idea of officially going to a school.”

“But first, and before we pick up Elin, I have something to show you that I'm sure will make you happy. Do you remember a few days ago when I was looking through all the old pictures up here in the corner? I found a very old one and you asked me what surprised me so much.” Mattias nodded.

“What is it?”

“Follow me.”

Halima walked down the stairs with Mattias right behind her and bent down under the slope beneath the steps. She then pulled out a large framed picture and held it out for Mattias to see, smiling. He widened his eyes in sudden recognition and took the frame from her hands.

“Let's go outside in the garden, it's brighter there than here and the colours on the oil painting will shine much brighter.”

Halima was right, because as they stood outside in the afternoon sun, the painting suddenly seemed much more vivid to Mattias. It showed him in his new uniform as a newly appointed lieutenant with the great task of looking after the king's young son, the future King Agnarr. Next to him stood a young Halima, slim, with long brown hair and, in his eyes, simply beautiful. He himself had short black curly hair and no beard at all. He radiated strength and confidence in the picture, with one hand on Halima's shoulder, while they both smiled proudly and happily at the viewer.

“Oh, Halima, that you still have this old picture of the two of us is a real treasure! Thank you so much. Look how young we were back then and the look on your face … I have no words … you were the most beautiful girl in all of Arendelle for me back then … and you still are …”

He gave her a kiss on the lips and she hugged him as they both looked at the painting together.

Mattias couldn't take his eyes off the picture and as he ran his finger over the painted face of his beloved, a tear of joy rolled down his cheek. Halima noticed immediately and cuddled up close to him so that they could reminisce together about a time when they were still freshly in love and making big plans.

~~~

youtube

Master Fabian was still pondering as he unlocked the front door of his fencing school and flat. The first thing he did was make himself a herbal tea in the kitchen and sit down at the large table in the fencing room, whose windows afforded a good view of the harbour and the castle. It had been a terrible few days and he had almost been too late to defend Anna, the queen, when Thord attacked her. It had been very close. He reviewed it all again when he could finally sit in peace and sip his steaming cup of tea.

He had not even had one day to rest from the stress of the previous days when now the Queen was sending him to Corona, of all places. A kingdom to which he never intended to return; he mused.

It was, of course, a beautiful land and kingdom, after all, he had grown up and spent his childhood there. He later learnt to master the art of fencing and even went travelling at a young age to perfect his skills. He had also heard about another brotherhood and wanted to know more about it.

He was or had to be a member of the one from Corona, of course, as everyone who wanted to become a fencing master did, but the two brotherhoods had always been in rivalry, as he soon realised. There were always competitions to prove that one followed the better doctrine and ultimately this also led to unauthorised duels between a few hotheads. He had always stayed out of it and strictly followed the code. But when his father was unintentionally involved in one of these duels one day, he couldn't help but stand by his side.

His father had always been his great role model and since Fabian's mother had died of a serious illness, his father was all the family he had left. He was ultimately the one who taught him how to use a sword, dagger and battle staff in the years that followed. He taught him to be able to defend himself and stand on his own two feet, to believe in himself and to always adhere to the code of the aspiring fencing masters once he had joined the brotherhood. And one day his father brought Fabian in and he actually passed all the exams with flying colours. His father was very proud of him and it was a dream come true for Fabian. He was officially made a fencing master.

Until the day his father faced three good fencers from the other brotherhood at dusk to avenge one of his friends who had been stabbed in a duel that day. Fabian had to watch everything from a distance because his father had forbidden him to interfere, so he rushed to his father's aid because his life was in danger. But he was only moments too late and a sword had pierced his father's heart.

Fabian was beside himself with grief and anger as he knelt next to him and clutched him with tears in his eyes. Then Fabian forgot all his resolutions and the code, jumped up, drew his sword and attacked himself just as the other three were about to make their escape.

It was a fierce fight, in which he immediately killed one of them and seriously wounded the one who killed his father. However, the remaining man inflicted a deep cut on Fabian's leg so that he could no longer walk properly and made off with the wounded man.

In the end, the brotherhood in Corona realised everything and expelled Fabian from the community, even threatening him with imprisonment. Fabian therefore drew a line, took all the family's savings and the best weapons, booked himself a ship passage with a destination far away from Corona and finally landed in Arendelle. That was decades ago now and the fencing master sighed before draining his cup and heading upstairs to pack for the journey.

The ARN Voyager would set sail from the naval base in the early hours of the next morning and dock in Corona a few days later. So he didn't have too much time left to get there on one of the small sailing ships in the harbour.

He was already standing at the stairs when there was a knock at the front door. Who could it be, Fabian asked himself and opened the door. Standing in front of him was one of the soldiers who had been with the troop that had killed Karrál's sub-leader.

“Master Fabian, hello, I apologise for turning up unexpectedly and disturbing you,” he began, a nervous, almost hurried expression on his face as he looked behind him and around. Almost as if he was checking that no one had followed him.

Fabian didn't miss this and interpreted it correctly, as he would soon realise. So he quickly invited him in.

“Come in, soldier. I don't have much time, though, because I'm currently preparing for my journey.”

Once the door was closed, the man got straight to the point. “I … er … I mean, there's something I can't deal with, something that happened in the forest in the north and that's been on my mind ever since. I'm afraid that someone even followed me up here because of it, because on the Crocus I stayed apart from those people, especially one of them, and maybe even behaved suspiciously.”

“Come to the table in the fencing room and tell me about it. I can guess what it's all about and you needn't be afraid.”

“Thank you, Master.”

Shortly afterwards, the soldier told the whole story as he had experienced it. Fabian quickly realised that he had credibly not taken part in the actions and had even been threatened not to tell a soul when it was all over. The soldier fumbled around and visibly struggled to name the person responsible.

“You know that this man committed a war crime and must be held accountable for it, and maybe others who had no problem helping him. No single person could commit such an offence. You must tell me the names, it's your duty, soldier!

It took a while, but finally he came clean and named two more names in addition to the main culprit.

“Am I now also being charged because I stood by and didn't do anything about it? I mean, I stood up to it as best I could, but there were five of us in the unit. I was very scared and could only watch what they were doing. Only one of us stood a little apart like me and when we looked at each other in shock … it was cruel …”

“I'll keep you out of it as much as I can, but you'll have to make a statement because you're the only witness who had the courage to tell me the truth. But don't be afraid.”

The soldier breathed a sigh of relief and sighed so loudly that you could literally hear the stone fall from his heart that had been weighing him down so heavily. Fabian put a hand on his shoulder to reassure him.

“I'll inform General Mattias. He'll organise everything else while I'm out of the country. Do you have somewhere to hide until the trial?”

“Yes, I have.”

Fabian then learnt the location and would pass this information on to Mattias with all the other details before boarding. He dismissed the soldier, looked after him for a few more moments and finally picked up where he had left off a good hour ago.

~~~

Anna was working on drafts for this year's town competitions when there was a brief knock and Elsa entered.

“You're back so quickly,” she greeted her sister.

“Quickly? Have you looked at the clock? It's almost three.”

“Really now? Time has flown by.”

Elsa stood behind her and looked over her shoulder. “What are you doing right now? Looks like a lot of fun.”

“That's what it is. I'm working on the new competitions for the end of the year, before Christmas.”

“We've been through this before,” Elsa said, tapping the paper that said 'ice carving'.

“It's obvious that you're the first to notice, isn't it? There will be stricter rules this time and people with ice magic won't be allowed to take part or help others.” She looked up at Elsa and grinned mischievously.

“You just don't want to let me win again, sis. But that's all right, as long as our citizens and the children have fun.”

“How did it go up on the cliff?”

“I think Yelana's a bit disappointed.”

“What, why is that?”

“Because she can't accompany the master builders back to camp on a big ship, only on one of the little one-masted sailboats.” Elsa grinned.

Both sisters laughed out loud.

“Well, who would have thought that a Northuldra, and their old leader on top of that, would take so much pleasure in travelling by ship.”

“That's true. Besides, she hasn't got a bit seasick yet and that's saying something. What are your plans for today, sis? Are there any important documents waiting for you?”

Anna shook her head, “Nope, just writing the letter for Mari, then I've got the rest of the day.”

“And that rarely happens when you're Queen of all Arendelle, believe me.”

“I know, Elsa, I realised that this afternoon and my head was spinning afterwards because I had to hurry so much. The text for the Sunday paper only went to the printers shortly after we returned. I finished it while you were away with Yelana. So the paper should have been out everywhere about three hours ago and that's really late this time. So I've told the printers to make it a late edition.”

“A late edition? Interesting choice of words and I've never heard of such a thing. But it's very aptly worded and who knows, you might even have made history as the first queen to invent a late edition for a newspaper.”

Anna had to laugh. “Thank you, Elsa, it just came to me.”

“So you could apply our conversation's ideas from a few days ago just in time, that's good. I hope the citizens also use our ideas and go out into nature, fishing or hunting.”

“I hope so too. I almost didn't think about it either, with all the events since then. But everything is fine now and I hope Kristoff and Kai in Snoob are too. I wonder what my darling is up to at the moment,” mused Anna, looking through the open window into the grey cloudy sky.

~~~

Eriksen had not promised too much, the shipyard was impressive and much larger than he had imagined. At the moment there was the bare hull of a two-masted brigantine or schooner brig, as the commander explained. Dozens of carpenters and sailors were working on it and Kristoff watched them with interest for a while. After all, it wasn't something you saw every day.

“This type of ship is particularly well suited to rough seas and can sail higher into the wind than a normal brig thanks to its design. Incidentally, this is exactly the type of ship you'll be sailing to Weselton in. Come on, I'll show you,” said Eriksen, making an inviting gesture towards the southern harbour bay, where many masts could already be seen swaying in the gentle swell from a distance.

It was a beautiful ship, Kristoff thought, when he saw it in its finished and seaworthy condition. It wasn't too big, but there was enough space in the hold, as the commander confirmed when he asked.

“The Draba can set sail tomorrow morning. Unfortunately, it's a bit late to prepare everything for today. If you wish, you can take a hot bath this evening and I assume you will dine with me later, Your Highness?”

“It would be a great pleasure, Admiral Eriksen, thank you very much for the impressive tour today and all the amenities. I'm already looking forward to travelling on the Draba tomorrow. Doesn't the name come from this little rock flower?”

“Well recognised, Your Highness, you know your botany?”

“Not exactly, but I … used to travel a lot in the mountains above the snow line, these flowers like the cold there and bare rocky crags.”

~~~

Fabian met Mattias just as he was about to enter the castle with Halima.

“Hello, Lady Halima,” he greeted her first with a skilful bow and she returned the gallant greeting with a smile.

“General Mattias, a word, please,” he then said with a serious expression on his face.

“Hello, Fabian. Is it important? We were just about to pick up Elin and take her to a restaurant for dinner later.”

“Yes, unfortunately it is and I only have a little time because I'm on my way to Corona and have to catch the sailor to the naval base later.”

“Oh, that's right. Halima, why don't you go upstairs to Elin, I'll be right behind you.”

Mattias grabbed Fabian by the shoulder and pulled him aside a little. “So, what's up, my friend?”

Fabian told him in abbreviated form what he had learnt from the soldier and Matthias' face brightened noticeably.

“That's very good news and exactly what we were hoping for, that one of the soldiers would give in and come clean after all, without any lengthy questioning or threats. Can you make a note of the most important things in the guardroom?”

“Already done, I wrote it down at home.” Fabian pulled out a small sealed envelope and handed it to the general.

“Thank you, Fabian. I'll take care of it first thing in the morning. But for now, let me wish you a safe and successful journey. Please take good care of yourself in Corona and don't make any unnecessary detours.”

“I will, Destin. I promise.”

They sealed it with a handshake and a short but strong hug before Fabian turned and headed for the harbour. He had already put his luggage on the boat, so he didn't have to worry about anything else.

~~~

When the mounted messenger was on his way to Vesterland to deliver Anna's letter to Princess Mari, the sisters went to the dining hall to eat their evening meal. Olaf was also there and although he never had to eat, he really enjoyed the company of the sisters and always enjoyed listening to their conversations. However, they weren't very talkative tonight and Olaf had the impression that something was on Elsa's mind.

“So, Olaf? What have you been up to today?” asked Anna.

“Read books with little Elin.” Now the snowman was in his element, forgetting his thoughts from a moment ago and talking about Elin's learning successes and how much fun they both always had. “But Halima and Mattias picked her up a while ago because they wanted to take her to a restaurant and told me they had a little surprise for her too. I wonder what that could be. Maybe more books? Or …”

As Olaf continued to rattle on, the sisters looked at each other knowingly, as they already suspected what it must be about.

“…I love restaurants, can we go there sometime? What is that actually?”

“Oh, Olaf,” said Anna, “you say that so often, even though you don't even know what you love. When you love something, you really like it because you already know it well and you like it so much. You can only eat something in a restaurant, just like here, only with strangers at different tables. Besides, you don't have to eat anything, Olaf.”

“People or families go to a tavern or restaurant together because they want to treat themselves to something special, or because they like to be served in a particularly nice way,” Elsa added.

“Or lovers who want to spend a particularly nice evening together, Olaf.”

“As they say, Anna, the way to the heart is through the stomach.”

They both laughed, but Olaf didn't understand what they were talking about. He didn't recognise a joke either, so he could only look at them both questioningly.

When the sisters saw his face, they laughed even harder, but Olaf didn't like it at all, because this time he had clearly realised that he was the reason.

When Anna was able to catch her breath, she apologised to him. “I'm sorry, Olaf, but seeing the look on your face was just so funny. I didn't mean any offence, honestly.”

“It's all right, Anna.”

“I guess there are few things you don't love, Olaf, are there?” said Elsa, still with a smile on her face.

“There is one thing I don't like and certainly don't love,” he replied, making a sad face.

“And what would that be,” Anna asked in a serious tone and looked at her sister, who was now looking at Olaf just as seriously.

“If you both had to go to war again.”

Any hint of laughter died away and the sisters nodded as they both put their hands on his shoulders.

“We never want that again, Olaf,” Elsa said quietly.

~~~

It was already quite dark when the three of them walked along the mountain road with Elin in the middle and headed towards the building with the brightly lit windows. The little girl was already very excited and held Halima's and Mattias' warm hands tightly in hers. She had never been invited anywhere just for dinner, where probably only the very posh people ate, she imagined. She wondered if her new parents were rich and a very brief thought of her dark past flashed through her mind as she felt a sense of loneliness, poverty and hunger before quickly brushing it aside. Today was going to be a special day, without images from the past in her head that occasionally popped up in her dreams at night. Elin nodded resolutely. She now had a whole new life and felt happy.

”They should actually put lanterns up here,” said Mattias, “if the moon isn't shining, you can hardly see the way.”

“Why don't you tell the queen, you have a special connection to her,” replied Halima. “I'm sure she'll listen to your suggestion. On the other hand, maybe we could have just taken a lantern with us.”

But shortly afterwards they reached the front door of the restaurant and Mattias briefly let go of Elin's hand to hold it open for them. Snatches of conversation and quiet laughter emanated from inside and a cosy warmth spread around their faces as they entered. However, just before they did, Mattias noticed some extinguished lanterns next to the door and had to agree with his fiancée.

The innkeeper immediately approached them and greeted his regulars with a smile.

“General Mattias, Lady Halima … nice to welcome you back to my place and I see that this time you have a young companion … hello, little one. Same table as usual, General, and a glass of our best red wine for you both?”

“Gladly, Reik, and a glass of juice for our little Elin, please.”

“Very well.”

The innkeeper invited them to their usual table and picked up the menu from the counter as they passed.

“Unfortunately, we've had to shorten our menu a little because we're also affected by the supply problem,” he said as he handed them both the menu. “So may I suggest fish of various kinds, lobster or a game ragout with freshly picked mushrooms?”

“We're still thinking about it, Reik, please bring us the drinks first,” Mattias replied and turned to Elin, who had just taken a seat next to Halima, looked around curiously and then ran her fingers along the large tablecloth on the round table.

“Are you hungry or not so hungry, Elin?” he asked.

Elin looked up at him and shrugged her shoulders, “I don't know…”

“I already know what we're going to do. Halima, have you chosen yet?”

“The ragout sounds good, I'll have that today.”

“Then I'll have fish today … trout, if available … let's see,” he said as he skimmed the menu, “and an empty plate for Elin. She can have a taste of both of us then, all right, little one?”

Elin nodded hesitantly and looked curiously over at the few other guests.

“Good idea, my darling, I would have suggested that too,” said Halima, putting the menu aside and smiling at Elin.

The landlord brought the drinks and they placed their order. Elin watched and listened carefully, even when the host dished up shortly afterwards and her new parents took a cloth from the table, skilfully unfolded it and placed it over their legs before reaching for the cutlery. Elin followed suit and when Mattias asked what she wanted to try first, she pointed to Halima's plate of game stew, which smelled tempting.

“I like that one.”

Halima slid some of her plate over to Elin's and placed it in front of her.

However, it was a little difficult for the little girl to eat due to the low seating height and when she pushed a forkful into her mouth, some of the sauce dripped down. Elin noticed it immediately and now realised the purpose of the cloth over her legs. She smiled at Mattias, who didn't hesitate for long, stood up with a grin and took one of the higher stools in front of the counter for Elin. Now everything was perfect and the little girl tucked into one delicious piece of meat after another.

Halima and Mattias exchanged mischievous glances.

“I can see you really like it,” he said, “but you'd better take your time with it, Elin. You have to savour this delicious dish.”

Elin nodded vigorously and took a sip from her glass before continuing to eat, but now chewing a little more slowly and to Mattia's satisfaction a little longer.

When they had all finished, he topped up his and Halima's wine and ordered a second glass of juice for the girl.

“Elin,” Halima began, looking at her questioningly, “we were thinking about something today and wondering what you'd think.” She glanced over at Mattias, who immediately understood and continued for her.

“We think it's time you learnt not only reading and writing from Olaf, but also many other exciting things.”

Elin was now curious and asked, “Other exciting things? What do you mean?”

“Well, what the other children your age learn at school. From a real teacher, you know?”

“In a school? What's that? But I don't want to go back to a home like that or something, the other children at the orphanage always looked at me so strangely and teased me. I don't like that.”

“No, no, Elin,” Halima intervened again, “don't worry, a school is something completely different and the teacher keeps an eye on all the children at all times so that they don't do anything like that. The children there are also very different to those at the orphanage and always go home to their parents after lessons in the afternoon. Just like you do when you come home to us. But you can also play with them if you like, that's also something you haven't done before and it's great fun.”

Elin looked at both of them doubtfully and didn't know what to say.

“I'll make you a suggestion, Elin, we'll all go to the school down by the harbour tomorrow and you can have a look around and get to know the teacher at the same time. All right?” said Mattias and signalled to the landlord, who immediately came to him.

“We'd like to pay the bill, please.” Then Mattias turned to Elin again and grinned, “Besides, we have a surprise for you tonight.”

“A surprise?”

“Yes, my dear. I've finished decorating your room today and I hope you like it,” Halima explained and Elin's eyes lit up. “Let's go home and you can think about what we've said in peace, shall we?”

Elin nodded and after Mattias had pressed a few coins into the innkeeper's hand, they left the restaurant.

~~~

youtube

The next morning brought a pleasant surprise for the castle residents when two long covered wagons with a high superstructure drove over the bridge and then came to a rumbling halt on the cobblestones of the castle courtyard. Captain Einar immediately rushed over because of the noise and met the two coachmen, who introduced themselves to him as Snoob's inhabitants and brought supplies for the castle and the capital on behalf of His Highness Kristoff Bjorgmann.

Einar lifted the tarpaulins of both carriages and peered curiously underneath, while the coachmen stood by his side to explain. The first wagon was piled high with sacks of flour, barrels and baskets full of vegetables and all sorts of other food supplies. On the second wagon was mainly cattle feed and many bales of hay. The captain thanked them and immediately summoned some guardsmen, who were not only to look after the two guests and the draught horses, but were also entrusted with distributing the load.

It wasn't actually much and would hardly be enough for everyone, but it was a good start and the bakers in the town would be particularly pleased to receive so much flour. Einar sent for Olina, the cook, to make a selection for the castle kitchen and also sent for Lars and his assistant so that they could get enough fresh straw into the stables. For the captain, catering for the royal castle was the most important thing and he was very pleased with how quickly everything was done as he stood there watching everyone.

It wasn't long before the queen, with her sister at her side, walked down the steps in front of the castle and looked around, partly in joy and partly in amazement.

“Captain Einar, didn't Kristoff come with them? I don't see him or Sven anywhere.”

“As far as I can tell, His Highness only ordered this delivery in Snoob and the coachmen drove everything that was in the collection centre here. They didn't mention anything else, not even a message from him.”

Anna drew her eyebrows together and looked at Elsa.

“I understand that Kai didn't come with them, after all we gave him a holiday with his relatives, but Kristoff should have done his job with this amount of supplies. Is he on holiday in Snoob now too or what is he up to?”

Elsa shrugged her shoulders, “Maybe he's helping Kai with the candidates for the new council, but to be honest, I have no idea what else it could be.”

“Hmm,” Anna said with a brooding face, “so if he doesn't turn up in two days at the latest, I'll send a messenger, believe me.”

“Since you're talking about messengers … look who's coming, Anna!”

She wheeled round, hoping to see Kristoff with Sven after all, but instead Princess Mari of Vesterland was riding into the castle courtyard accompanied by her bodyguard.

Mari spotted them both at the same moment, signalled her guards to dismount and rode right up to the sisters. She then swung skilfully out of the saddle and said, “Hello, my dears!” beaming with joy.

The three of them hugged each other warmly one after the other and Mari immediately began to talk as they all went inside. Mari walked in the middle, her arms casually draped over the sisters' shoulders and in a good mood.

“I see that you have already received a delivery of food, which makes me happy for you. They are still collecting for it everywhere in my kingdom and the wagons should arrive here the day after tomorrow at the latest. I received your letter yesterday, Anna. I'm really sorry about what happened to you outside our castle and you can be sure that the two guards have been severely reprimanded for it. Such behaviour is simply inexcusable! Dad wasn't even at home at the time because he always visits Mum's grave with me that day and I was taking care of your supply problem afterwards.”

“I was thinking something like that, Mari,” said Elsa sympathetically and Anna added, “but I was still pretty angry. To be honest, nothing like this has ever happened to me before.”

“Can you stay here for a few days, Mari? We were both planning to go mushroom picking together again after a long time and it would be nice if you could join us,” Elsa asked, stopping in front of the wide staircase to the first floor, “We could have a relaxed chat about so many things.”

“I'd love to! I haven't done that for so long and I'm sure it would be a lot of fun with you two. But I'd have to ride back on Wednesday at the latest.”

“That's great, I'm really looking forward to it,” said Anna. “Come on, let's go upstairs for a cup of tea and if you're hungry, I'll get Olina to prepare a little something for us.”

“Tea sounds good, but I'm not very hungry yet. The main thing is that the three of us have a cosy time together.”

~~~

Meanwhile, south of Snoob …

Kristoff had had a good night's sleep and thanked Eriksen once again as he got into his wagon and let Sven trot off in the direction of the landing stage. Once there, he recognised a ship with a new name painted on the hull. He read 'ARN Voyager' and was willing to bet that this had been Anna's idea, at least that's how he imagined it.

The Draba was anchored right next to it and as he was about to go on board with Sven while his car was being hoisted over the railing, someone called out to him.

He turned around and recognised Master Fabian, who was standing in the bow of the Voyager and waving down.

“Master Fabian, what are you doing here on the naval base?” Kristoff called up.

“I was just about to ask you the same question, Your Highness. I'm travelling on behalf of the queen and am about to set sail for Corona. And you?” Fabian called out.

“Erm, well … I want to surprise Anna and have decided to sail to Weselton on my own because of the same problem you're travelling for, I suppose.”

“Indeed I am, only in the opposite direction.” Fabian laughed.

“It's quite a long way to Corona, isn't it?”

“Yes, that's true and I reckon it will take me three to four days, depending on the wind.”

“It's only just under two days for me, as Admiral Eriksen told me. Were you also in the fortress overnight?”

“No, I arrived last night on a small sailing boat from Arendelle and then lay down in a hammock right here below deck.”

“I see … well then, have a good trip and good luck in Corona.”

“I wish you the same, Your Highness. We could both do with a bit of luck.”

Kristoff nodded and waved goodbye before boarding the Draba and introducing himself to the captain.

Half an hour later, both ships set sail.

~~~

---

Tagging: @true--north @annaofthenorthernlights @dronning-formynder05

#frozen #frozen2 #frozen3 #fanfic #epic novel #the broken bridge #chapter 76 #bigfrozenfan #Youtube

11 notes · View notes

bigfrozenfan-fanfics · 2 months

Text

Chapter 75 - Let it go🔞

Links: Chapter overview, Character list, Map, Glossar Rating: M over all Publishing cycle: around every 2-3 weeks

youtube

The sisters and Alena had returned to camp an hour ago and were now sitting around the fires for dinner. The sky had cleared a little, but it was still quite cold. Alena was talking with Honeymaren and Yelana not far away in front of their kota and Ryder and Linnea were also keeping them company there now. Elsa assumed it was about leaving in the morning. Anna was still introverted and showed little hunger. She still held her guksi in her hands half empty.

“Are you all right, sis?”

Anna looked up, a little startled, and her answer came delayed, still lost in thought, as Elsa could tell by the look on her face.

“Yeah, everything's okay. I just feel like I haven't slept in days. So I think I'll go to sleep early tonight. There are still so many things to process that I heard and saw today, especially the images and scenes I experienced in the Hall of Memories. Thank you so much for that, Elsa. I will never forget that.”

“I can very much relate to that, Anna, and no cause for it. In fact, you even have Yelana to thank for it, because she gave me this idea in time before Alena leaves for her journey home tomorrow.”

As her sister nodded absently, Elsa looked down at her steaming guksi and then set it aside. She was not hungry either. Too much had happened and she, like Anna, felt like she had been away for days, but of course her body was saying otherwise and also that everyone here continued to behave normally, as always. Everything was quite confusing and it was no wonder Anna reacted the way she did.

When General Mattias suddenly appeared beside her and addressed her, he snapped her out of her thoughts. She didn't even catch the beginning, and only noticed him when he asked, “Everything alright, Your Majesty?”.

“Er, yes … sorry, I was just thinking.” She looked around in confusion, as if she had just woken from a dream, then stopped abruptly. “Wait a minute, did you just address me as Majesty?”

Mattias didn't understand and was a little confused. “No, of course not, Elsa, and if I had, I would have addressed you as Your Highness. Besides, we had agreed to leave formalities aside, provided there were no strangers around. Are you sure you're all right?”

She blinked a few times in confusion. “I think so, I was in a trance session with Anna earlier and we experienced something that lasted much longer than reality.”

Mattias couldn't quite figure out what she meant by that and raised his eyebrows questioningly.

“Don't worry Mattias, it may sound a bit confusing and I guess it was even for me until just now, but I assure you everything is fine. Just lost track of time a bit … oh and if you're hungry, there's some fresh stew for you if you like. I'm not in the mood for it right now.” She held out her still slightly steaming guksi to him with a smile.

“Thank you very much, that's … very kind, but …” he looked from her to the somewhat apathetic queen beside her and back again, “… but actually I just wanted to report on the preparations for tomorrow's departure.”

“Oh … yes, of course. I'll listen carefully now then,” she said and put the bowl back down.

He looked back over at Anna and Elsa noticed his questioning look.

“She's just deep in thought, like I was just now, and not really responsive at the moment. Don't worry, I'll tell her later.” As Mattias was about to express concern, she added, “No, really, it's all right. It was just an extremely profound experience for both of us this afternoon and it still moves us a lot.”

He finally nodded, “Very well … so … the ship is now loaded and ready for departure tomorrow. All the prisoners are accommodated in the brig, only with the remaining mounts we had a big problem getting them onto the ship. Therefore I have decided that some men will have to ride the long way back to Arendelle and take these horses with them. The rest of the troops, including Master Fabian, are probably already in the hamachs below deck sleeping.”

“That is very good news indeed, Mattias, I …”

“Oh, hello, Mattias,” Anna said abruptly as she came back to reality from her deep, dream-like thoughts and yawned. “I think I'm going to bed, Elsa, I feel really exhausted. I'll see you tomorrow then, yeah?”

“Sure thing, sis, sleep tight.”

“Good … Night …,” the general could only add in confusion after a few seconds, “…. Your Majesty.”

Anna waved apologetically behind her and disappeared between the two guards into the kota. Silence returned for moments and again Mattias cast confused glances around.

“Well, I can see that despite the early evening, it is not the right time to discuss some matters with you and your sister. I will therefore likewise go to the ship and look for a free hamach.”

“I'm sorry, Mattias. We'll all be better rested tomorrow. I wish you a good night. I think I'd better retire as well. It's been a long … I mean … a long day.”

~~~

But Elsa didn't do that, of course, instead she pretended to go for another evening walk as soon as the general was out of sight and hardly anyone paid any attention to her. She took the path towards the mountains, just as Honeymaren had described it to her.

It was a long walk and the sky darkened visibly. In the end she stumbled more than was safe to walk and moonlight penetrated the cloud cover as little as starlight. She wished she had a torch now, but that would certainly have attracted attention for miles out here.

Ultimately, she smelled the right path more than she saw it, for Honeymaren was undoubtedly frying fish over the fire. Flickering light penetrated the darkness ahead a moment later and then she saw a figure sitting in front of a campfire, a blank expanse of blackness behind her. Surely the lake.

“There you are,” Honeymaren said, even before Elsa stepped into the light of the firelight.

“How did you know it was me? Or do I have such loud footsteps that you recognised as mine?”

“Not that exactly, but little things like a rolling stone or the fumbling of unsteady feet on the night-black ground. It could only be you and only you I expected to see here tonight. Hello, Elsa.” Her eyes flashed in the firelight and Elsa had to smile.

“Hello, Maren.” Elsa sat down opposite her on a reindeer skin and watched her carefully turn two wooden sticks with skewered small trout on them over the fire, inch by inch

“Will be ready in a minute. I hope you're still a little hungry, Elsa,” she said, concentrating on her activity.

“Well, I am a little … only I've never eaten fish freshly roasted over an open fire.”

“Oh that …. no worries, I didn't bring any guksis, but you can eat the trout straight off the spit. They taste delicious even without herbs. You can eat the fish skin too, it's quite crispy at the end, but you have to watch out for the fish bones, of course, without any cutlery.”

Shortly afterwards, Honeymaren handed her one of the two long skewers, which stuck out a good bit at the front and back for her to touch. Elsa sniffed it first before taking a small bite and almost burning her tongue.

“Be careful, better wait a little.”

“Hmm … tastes quite good, though I miss butter and some tarragon. I guess you ate like this more often in the wilderness, didn't you? Not bad at all.”

Honeymaren grinned, “Oh yes, this is a feast in the open air, you better believe it.”

youtube

A little later they threw the leftovers into the fire and Honeymaren added a few more branches. Elsa went over to her and they both leaned comfortably against each other, looking at the flames. They didn't say a word for a while, preferring to listen to the crackling of the fire. Behind them, the lake rippled softly from time to time as a fish gasped for air at the surface and immediately dived back down. Then Honeymaren asked the question Elsa had been expecting since her arrival.

“What was it actually like, your dream trip?”

“It wasn't a dream at all in the real sense, it was quite real. It's an in-between world, as Alena and our mother's spirit called it, a world between life and death that you can travel in a deep trance. Everything exists there exactly as we see and experience it in the real world, from the past up to the present, because time is the only thing that doesn't matter there. Very different from how a noaidi normally sees it when she …er…”

“Visits the three spiritual planes?” added Honeymaren.

“Yes, exactly. It's just … indescribable and … fantastic! You can't really describe or explain it unless you've seen and experienced it yourself.”

“Was your sister able to see Ahtohallan too?”

“Yes, at the very end Mama took us there. But that wasn't the only reason Anna was so excited, because Iduna showed us things from our past and let us experience them together, answered all the things that had been on our minds for years. Things like what happened to her and Papa in the shipwreck and why they sailed the Dark Sea in the first place. Anna and I know everything about our parents now.”

“I'm very happy for you two.”

“Who knows, Maren, maybe one day you too will have the chance to experience this world when you travel with Alena starting tomorrow.”

“You're right, only then I probably won't see and experience Ahtohallan. Anyway, I'll ask Alena if she'll take me on … this journey someday.”

“Can I ask you 'something'?” said Elsa quietly after a few moments.

Honeymaren looked at her, put an arm around her tenderly and replied, “Yeah sure.”

“Are you making this trip tomorrow because Alena saw it that way, or did you, as she said, want to go with her anyway and then on to the far north?”

Honeymaren hesitated a little. “That's something I've been wondering today too. In any case, I didn't want Alena and the boy travel alone with the prisoners and return later. But what she described then, what I would experience up there and that it would change me, made me think. No Northuldra I knew had ever been so far from the forest, the nature spirits and Ahtohallan. It sounded so tempting to me that I didn't have to hesitate long to agree. The only thing that saddens me is leaving you behind, Elsa, now that you and I have finally found each other.”

I had to remove the following scene because of the Tumblr community guidelines for 18+ content and created a new blog for it. If I had labelled this chapter as mature, my entire fanfic blog would only be visible to people over 18 and that was going too far for me. So only follow this link if you are over 18 and ready to read an explicit Elsamaren love scene.

youtube

“So, did you still meet Honeymaren last night? You wanted to, didn't you?” she asked as she dressed.

Anna was curious now that she knew about her new relationship with Maren; Elsa thought somewhat amused. However, if she knew what she had experienced and done that night, Anna probably wouldn't be quite as excited, who knows.

“Yes we did and we said goodbye to each other lovingly and talked a lot. She's going to be away for a whole year now and … I want to be honest with you, Anna. I'm going to miss her deeply.”

“Poor Elsa, you've finally found someone for yourself, a first steady relationship, and already you have to part from each other again. Come here, I want to comfort you a little and give you a hug, sis.”

They held each other tightly for a few moments and Anna added, “I'm really sorry for you!”.

“Thanks, Anna. It's only for a year, so hopefully it'll pass quickly. But let's see if we can get something to eat already. Oh and one more thing … when you go out you'll probably be amazed.”

Anna raised an eyebrow and pushed the flap of the hut outwards, some snow falling on her hand. She was astonished to see the paper-thin blanket of snow in front of her.

“Elsa, winter is here!”

Elsa laughed, “Yes, it does here, even if it's a little early for it, but it will probably be a few weeks before it snows in Arendelle and stays there too. I think winter is beautiful and I look forward to it every year.”

“Me too, but no wonder with you with your ice magic and your love for cold.”

Elsa had to agree, giggling, and then they looked around for cooking fires with pots on them. Anna, in jest, pushed some snow together behind Elsa into a small snowball and threw it at her. It crumbled right in her neck and Elsa squealed in fright. Anna giggled.

She had aimed well and in response Elsa now began to form a giant snowball and slowly came closer. Anna remembered too well what had happened a long time ago and ran off laughing. Elsa could also aim very well and Anna usually had no chance against her. Elsa came running after her, giggling, magically holding the white ball high in the air and feeling like a little child. But it was nice to play with Anna again, as if they were little again.

But when Elsa noticed the looks and shaking of heads from the surrounding Northuldra, she stopped and immediately made the huge snowball disappear. Anna turned around, thinking that her sister was already close on her heels, but then realised the situation and came towards Elsa a little sadly.

“Well … we're just both not so young anymore. But anyway, I really had great fun with you for a few moments, almost like in the old days. Thank you,” she said with a smile.

“You're very welcome. But we'll do it again in Arendelle when there's a lot of snow,” Elsa laughed.

~~~

After breakfast the time had come and Alena, Árnason and Honeymaren's twenty-five volunteer men were ready to leave. The captured Northmen were allowed to ride their own reindeer, but their hands were tied and a long rope connected all the animals so that none escaped.

Elsa and Anna said goodbye to Alena and thanked her again with all their hearts for this unforgettable adventure, which they were both allowed to experience, thanks to her.

Honeymaren needed some more time and stood before her family to say farewell and to share a few last words with Ryder.

But first, mother and daughter were in each other's arms. Linnea cried because Honeymaren was leaving her again, and this time for a whole year.

“Oh, my darling, I will miss you. Please don't take any risks on your long journey and come back safely, do you hear? I don't want to lose anyone else! Always be careful. I wish you luck and may the gods be with you.”

“Thank you, Mother, I will take good care of myself and I am not alone. Others of our tribe are on this journey as well and I will meet many people and have many adventures. So please don't worry about me. Ryder will help you with everything until then.”

They hugged tightly again and then she turned to her brother.

“Please take good care of Mother and help her in any way you can. She has only you for the next year and you are the man in the family now. Please act like it, will you?”

“Of course, and I also promise not to disappear suddenly.”

Honeymaren nudged him seemingly annoyed, for he had alluded to her disappearing from Arendelle one morning. But she understood and then they both laughed and fell into each other's arms.

“Take good care of yourself, big sister.”

“I will and you too please, little brother. I'll see you in a year.”

Now it was the turn of the siblings from Arendelle, who were already waiting for them.

“Take good care of yourself, Honeymaren, and be sure to return, you know why and what I told you yesterday,” Anna said with seriousness in her voice.

“I agree, though I don't know what my sister meant by the last sentence, but I'll find out. I wish you a good and exciting journey. Good luck and God bless you,” Elsa said with a smile.

Honeymaren thanked her with a smile and then mounted her reindeer, which she had already packed with all the necessary things in the morning. Her fighting staff, which she had received as a gift from father, was also with her, as was her new weapon. For it, she wanted to make a leather pouch with a loop for her belt during the long evenings. Not everyone should see it immediately, but it had to be within reach in an emergency.

She looked around one last time, looked at the smiling faces and sought eye contact with Elsa. There she stood, waving at her with a broad smile. Honeymaren now waved too and then they all rode off, disappearing one by one between the trees.

~~~

“And away they go,” Anna joked, “so I guess it's our turn to leave. Yelana is coming back to Arendelle with us, right?”

Elsa nodded. “But now tell me, Anna, what did you mean by that earlier?”

“Well … to be honest, I had threatened her a bit. It’s a simple deal between Maren and me, nothing to worry about it, Elsa.”

“You what?” agitated Elsa, taking an annoyed step towards Anna, who didn't back down a bit.

“If she were to hurt or harm you in any way, I meant, and for me that includes unkept promises and also if she were to leave you forever.”

Elsa was a slightly perplexed and let her head jerk back with raised eyebrows.

“Er, thank you for your protective instinct, Anna, but that really wasn't necessary! I don't think you should get involved in my private affairs!”

Elsa was miffed, which was a rarity, Anna noticed now. Honeymaren had become extremely important to Elsa. More important even than her own sister? Anna knew nothing to say in response and pulled a pout, as she always did when she didn't quite understand something and it worked the way she wanted it to.

“Sorry, I didn't mean it that way and it was a spontaneous reaction to your big news,” Anna said after all, now just as miffed, turned around and left her sister standing there.

~~~

youtube

After saying goodbye to the Northuldra, they all transferred to the ARN Voyager in the tenders. Anna sat with her bodyguard in one, Elsa with Yelana at her side and Lars, the stable boy, in the other. They cast furtive glances at each other, but inwardly insisted that they had acted rightly and reacted correctly to each other.

The ride on the Voyager was smooth and the wind was good, which meant they were moving quickly. However, the next stop wouldn't be Arendelle, but Vesterland, just as they had promised to Mari.

Yelana and Lars stood in the bow again, letting the wind blow around their noses. The stable boy was rather pensive and introverted this time, the old Northuldra thought. After a few minutes of silence, she addressed him.

“So, how did you like it, Lars?”

He startled up from his thoughts. “It was … indescribable. You didn't promise too much, Lady Yelana. Everyone was very kind to me and I immensely enjoyed the Northuldra's food.”

Yelana laughed, “So, so ….”

“That funeral ceremony … was … extraordinary and beautiful. The torches at night, how everyone stood around the grave with them and then that chanting to it and what they did with those sticks. I didn't quite understand what this shaman, or whatever she was called, was doing, but later I asked Árni about it when we were exploring everything together. He is my friend now and who knows, maybe I will visit him in his summer camp in a few years. So thank you so much for everything and for taking me on this amazing journey. Now I have gained a few new dreams.”

Yelana smiled at him. “I am happy for you and especially that you have made such friends with one of our people.”

Both were still talking about different things when the captain gave the order to change course and the Voyager sailed into the Arenfjord. It was not far to Vesterland now and the sisters came on deck.

But when they finally stood at the iron entrance portal in front of King Jonas' residence later in the day, huge was their bewilderment as soon as they discovered that were not allowed to pass the main gate.

“This can't be true,” Anna complained, “I am the Queen of Arendelle, you insolent louts. We announced our visit to Princess Mari a few days ago! Please bring her to the gate if you don't believe us!”

But the two guards continued to behave stubbornly and simply disregarded the social position of their visitors.

Now Elsa also interfered and became increasingly annoyed. “Is this happening again? This is an outrage. Even back then, when Vesterland illegally appropriated a stretch of Arendelle's land, appointment after appointment was not kept and I, the former Queen of Arendelle, was refused an interview. Tell King Jonas that he would do better to instruct his guards at the castle gate better and teach them some important basic skills in etiquette with royal visitors! Also tell him that we are outraged by this treatment and hope it is just a misunderstanding.”

With that, she turned and ran back to the jetty. Anna watched her go and became even more enraged.

“There will be consequences, I promise you both, and I remember you from back then, Adam!” threatened Anna, pointing at the guard she had addressed and then imitating Elsa by simply turning and following her.

Later, as they both sat together in the captain's cabin, they were still so annoyed that they didn't think about their personal little quarrel at all.

“As soon as we arrive at the castle, I will write a letter to Mari this very afternoon and send it to her by messenger. She must do something about this affair, and I'd like to bet that King Jonas will assign his incompetent guards to shovel horse manure in the future as soon as he learns how royal visitors were treated at his own gate. It can all just be a silly misunderstanding, can't it?”

“I agree with you, Anna, and think the same. I wonder what Mari will say about this the next time she visits us.”

“I'll take that opportunity to invite her to join us while I'm at it, and I hope she has a day or two to spend some quality time with both of us.”

“Maybe we should take her out for a ride and use the opportunity to pick mushrooms together. Olina could then cook a delicious mushroom soup or a Kantarellstuing pan from them in the evening. It's been ages since we both went mushroom picking up in the forest. I miss the old days sometimes, Anna.”

“That's true and that's a great idea. I wonder if there are still so many breadcrumb stubble mushrooms and saffron milk caps growing in our favourite places.”

Elsa shrugged, “Who knows, otherwise we'll just look for new places to collect.”

Anna looked at her sister ponderingly and then sighed. “I'm sorry, Elsa, for what I said to Maren and also for my reaction to you at camp. I was …”

Elsa was already waving it off, “It's forgotten, Anna. I didn't behave properly myself and overreacted. I apologise.”

“Maybe we should be more careful not to argue in the future, we only have the two of us as a family.”

“You're so right, Anna. We should. Olaf would be asking for a warm hug right now, and I want that too … come here, my sis. Give me a hug.”

~~~

The young captain of the ARN Voyager docked only briefly at the pier in Arendelle harbour and personally escorted his queen, her sister and Lady Yelana off the ship with the stable boy at her side. He stood on the pier with his chest puffed out with pride and his hand raised in salute on his captain's cap after helping Anna down the gangway.

Anna looked at him sympathetically and said, “Ole Jordahl has made a good choice in you, Captain, and I want you to continue to command ARN Voyager in the future. I am very pleased with your performance in this journey.”

“Thank you, Your Majesty! It is the greatest honour you have bestowed upon me,” he replied with a deadpan expression, just as he had learned to do, and tightened himself a little more.

Anna smiled and patted him encouragingly on the shoulder, which then threw him a little. But he quickly regained his composure and looked straight ahead.

At that moment Mattias, Fabian and the rest of the battle survivors came off the ship. They were all looking forward to finally seeing the family again.

Only Fabian had a somewhat worried expression on his face and looked a little sad at the same time. Anna and Elsa had told him on the way back about their plan to send him to Corona and today he wanted to pack his things for the journey. He would meet old acquaintances there and possibly also some of the people with whom he had had a little fencing fight back then, many years ago. He hoped not, of course, and all of them were now of advanced age, just as he was, and had certainly put the past behind them.

“I'm about to go to my Halima and I can't wait to see her again,” Mattias said to Anna and Elsa, snapping Fabian out of his gloomy thoughts.

“That goes for her too, Mattias, believe me. She missed you so much and was very worried about you, but everything is fine now. Please give her my warmest regards, won't you?” replied Anna, and Elsa added, “From me, too.”

Then they all walked towards the castle or into town. The captain went back on board and weighed anchor to take the prisoners down in the brig to their new place of residence for the next decades, the prison at the royal naval base.

As Elsa stood with Anna in front of the castle bridge, the stable boy already returning to his work, Elsa said, “While you are upstairs attending to your usual duties, I will go with Yelana to visit our builders and explain to them the plan for the new building.”

“Good idea, Elsa. Do you have any idea yet where exactly it will be built?”

“Hmm, maybe up on the cliff, directly above the city. You can see it from a distance there and it's also quickly accessible. But that's yet to be decided, depending on how big you want it to be.”

“Sounds reasonable. Will you also return to the Northuldra camp with them?”

“I can take care of that, Anna. It's part of my duties as a council member,” Yelana replied instead. “I guess I'll have to travel back and forth more often because of it.”

“And I guess you won't mind travelling by ship in the process, am I right?”

“You've got me pegged,” Yelana smirked and they all had to laugh.

~~~

youtube

As the Baron of Snoob had said, it was no more than half a day's journey to the naval base and the huge fortress could be seen from afar. Kristoff let Sven trot slowly across the narrow land bridge. Opposite, a gate blocked their progress and two armed men in blue uniforms stood at attention in front of it. Probably sentries; Kristoff thought and wondered if they would let him in. After all, he wore no clothing indicating his rank and being here with a cart pulled by a reindeer might even arouse suspicion.

One of these soldiers now held up a hand just before they reached the gate and Kristoff made Sven stop.

“Halt! Who are you and what is your business?”

“My name is Kristoff Bjorgmann, the Queen's betrothed, and I am on her behalf.”

“Oh, really? Anyone can say that. Do you have a document or a sealed royal letter that proves your claim? If not, you should turn back immediately. No one comes to the island who doesn't have permission to do so.” The guard now approached and took a curious look inside the wagon. But seeing nothing suspicious, he rejoined his comrade.

It looked bad for him; thought Kristoff and he could well understand this obstinacy. The men there were only doing their job and had certainly never been to Arendelle Castle.

“Is there anyone in the fortress who has been to the castle before and might recognise me? Queen Anna's request is very important and I have already spoken to the Baron of Snoob about it. It was he who first gave me the idea to travel here.”

The two guards conferred quietly and then one of them said, “All right, I will let the commander know. But it may take time for him to come or send someone. Don't you dare steal his time and lie!”

Kristoff nodded and prepared himself for a longer wait. He took a carrot from under the seat and got out of the driver's seat to give it to Sven. The remaining guard didn't object.

“Well, Sven, you heard it, they don't believe me.”

“Are you surprised? You don't look like the Crown Prince of Arendelle either.” Kristoff let Sven reply in a low voice.

“I know, Sven, but that uniform is so uncomfortable, you know that.”

“Maybe you can play us something on the lute while we have to wait?” that typically disguised voice sounded again.

“Good idea, Sven!

Kristoff went back and fished his lute out from under the driver's seat, the best place to keep it handy on long journeys. Then he began to strum a few chords as he walked towards Sven.

“Hey, wait a minute,” the guard suddenly called out. “You're playing lutes and talking to your reindeer and even pretending it's going to answer you?”

Kristoff interrupted his music and said, “Yes. So what?”

“So because I heard a strange rumor about someone doing exactly what you are doing. I think his name was Kristoff, too, and he used to use his wagon to …”

“Hauling big blocks of ice in the summer?” added Kristoff.

“Yes, exactly!”

“That's what I am, or rather used to be, an ice harvester from the North Mountain before I became the Crown Prince of Arendelle. It's a long and exciting story.”

Now his comrade came back and even had someone in tow who looked important. All three consulted briefly and learned of Kristoff's behaviour just now. Then the newcomer arranged for the gate to be opened and waved Kristoff in.

“Let him pass, men.” He then sat down beside Kristoff on the trestle without being asked. “I am sorry, your Highness, the guards didn't know you. My name is Eriksen and I am the commander of the fortress. I will accompany you there now, and then we can talk in peace. How can I be of service to you?”

~~~

---

Tagging: @true--north @annaofthenorthernlights @dronning-formynder05

#frozen #frozen2 #frozen3 #fanfic #epic novel #the broken bridge #chapter 75 #bigrozenfan #Youtube

12 notes · View notes

bigfrozenfan-fanfics · 3 months

Text

Chapter 74 - Yelana's surprise and Anna's special journey

Links: Chapter overview, Character list, Map, Glossar Rating: M over all Publishing cycle: around every 2-3 weeks

youtube

The Norting was over and the Northuldra left the hall to return to the camp one by one. Ryder and Honeymaren were the last to leave and she glanced back at Elsa, but she was still standing by the stairs with her sister, Yelana and Alena, engaged in conversation. Honeymaren turned away sadly after a moment or two and slipped out through the door just as Elsa saw her.

While Anna spoke enthusiastically of the meeting house, Elsa had become rather pensive. Unfortunately, there had been no more opportunity for her to speak to Honeymaren. Not to mention that if tears had flowed from both of them, it would have drawn unwelcome attention to them, especially to the young Northuldra. Uncomfortable questions might have arisen and that could well have had a negative effect on Honeymaren. But there had to be something Elsa could do to arrange a secret meeting with her. Suddenly an idea occurred to her.

“I'll climb up to the top of the tower, Yelana, if I may. I need to think about something before we talk about your ideas,” she said.

“Of course, Elsa, just go up and have a look around,” replied the woman addressed, and Elsa began to climb up cautiously, not really trusting the cantilevered stair structure.

But nothing wobbled or swayed, everything was very sturdily built and she gained more confidence. Her steps quickened and just before she reached the platform she was almost running.

Then she was under the pyramid-shaped roof, holding on to the thin balustrade and looking down to spot Honeymaren. She discovered her just before she would disappear among the bushes. She was the last one down there and no one else was in the clearing. Honeymaren turned around one last time and Elsa waved at her with her arms raised, hoping to be seen, because she didn't dare call down loudly because of the others down in the hall.

Just as Honeymaren turned around, she saw Elsa standing at the top of the tower out of the corner of her eye. What was she doing there? Elsa was flailing her arms frantically. Honeymaren waved back a little uncertainly with a hand at her side until she suddenly realised that Elsa was trying to communicate something to her through gestures.

First a finger pointed at herself, then she pointed at Honeymaren while her mouth moved, silently trying to tell her something. Apparently she feared that someone was listening when she called out. Then she pointed several times to the south, towards the camp, and finally hugged herself. Honeymaren had understood. Elsa wanted to meet her later at the camp to talk and … was the self-hug supposed to mean that …? She nodded overtly and repeated the finger gestures with a smile, only in reverse. And at the end she threw Elsa another kissing hand and waved happily.

Elsa breathed a sigh of relief. Honeymaren had understood and agreed. She absolutely had to talk to her tonight and be with her before she left for her journey perhaps as early as tomorrow morning. Only the exact location in daylight could still be a problem.

Behind her, she suddenly heard footsteps on the stairs. It was Anna, who now also stepped onto the narrow platform and tried to look around. But two people at once hardly had room up here.

“Wow, great view from here … you can even see over the treetops … and how sturdy and yet filigree everything is built. That's some impressive construction for the Northuldra, don't you think, Elsa? Is that why you are so pensive? But well, I'm curious what Yelana will tell us about it and her ominous plan. I'm already curious.” Anna tried to make a little more room for herself, but to no avail. “It's a bit cramped up here for two, isn't it? Would you rather we went back down?”

Elsa nodded. “You're right, it is indeed. It's probably only meant as a lookout, like on ships. There's only room for one there, too. You go ahead, there's no other way,” she giggled.

~~~

“You've already seen everything inside here, so let's go around the building and you could take a closer look at the construction,” Yelana said. “Afterwards I'll tell you about my idea, which might be a little crazy.”

When they were all outside and followed Yelana on the tour, she first told them a bit more about the purpose of this house and what the side entrance was all about.

“I noticed that too when I was looking at everything before the meeting. Why is it that you don't have any noaidi anymore, or was it that … Gyda?”

“Well, sort of, but that was decades ago, before a magical mist trapped us, but she was cast out for certain reasons I won't go into. Before that we had someone without mention of a full council of elders. However, when the old King of Arendelle started a war with us, many of them died in the battle,” Yelana explained. “But now we have peace with Arendelle, thanks to Queen Anna and Elsa.”

Alena nodded thoughtfully.

“Times have changed and if what you said about Honeymaren is true, Alena, and the changes that will happen to her once she takes her position, then now that I think about it like this, I feel that perhaps my idea is not so far-fetched. I was now allowed to be a guest in Arendelle for a longer period of time and was even given a place in the royal council, as a mediator between the two peoples. What if the Norting were to take on a completely different role in the future? One in Arendelle, in a very similar building, only much bigger, combined with the modern architectural style of Arendelle and that of the Northuldra. It could be a meeting place, a focal point to our people and market place for our crafts and trade more generally.”

“But that's quite a wonderful idea, Yelana!” said Anna enthusiastically. “In fact, I could think of quite a few other things that would bring our two cultures even closer together. I'm beginning to understand what you meant by 'new possibilities and opportunities for the future'.”

“And you still have people who know about the unique architectural style?” asked Elsa. “Because this new building in Arendelle would have to look very similar, be just as special, and have just as much of an effect on the visitors there as it did on us today.”

“There are only two left to whom the knowledge has been passed on orally, but they are too old to do anything themselves.”

“Would our builders then, and there would not be many who would come to visit, be allowed to inspect the building here more closely in person and speak to your two elders here on site?” asked Anna.

“True, Anna, the best way to ask such questions is to see the problem with your own eyes. You might as well make some first drafts and take lots of notes,” added Elsa

“I don't think that should be a problem,” Yelana confirmed. “Ultimately, it's still my decision and I don't think Honeymaren would mind either. Well, it looks like I'll be needed in two places in the future.”

“But that's fine, Yelana, and it would only be for a year,” Elsa said, “Your people love you and would miss you if you left them to live in Arendelle in the future. I saw that clearly in the hall today.”

“Alena, I also noticed a certain thing you mentioned when you were in your trance,” Anna interjected. “The peoples in the far north, who, like the Northuldra, also call themselves the People of the Sun, actually speak different languages?”

“There are, as far as I know, as many as eleven languages and sometimes it is really difficult to communicate,” replied the noaidi.

“Oh, I can well imagine, especially because you have no writing of your own, as Yelana once told me. In Arendelle we can learn foreign languages from books and teachers who know languages. In Arendelle, too, we know different ones, from visitors and emigrants from distant kingdoms.”

“Think of Sorenson, Anna,” Elsa interjected. “What if we set up a university in the new building, as he once casually called it. It could become not only a place of getting to know each other, but also of knowledge,” Elsa enthused. “And that would be the perfect place for him as a scientist, if we give him a leading role there. As you know, he was still thinking about staying in Arendelle.”

“Good idea, sis. Besides, what if we don't set up the future royal council there, instead of holding it in the castle? Do you think that would be possible?” asked Anna.

“Interesting thought. In principle, as queen, you'll just have to decide. As for that, I hope Kai is successful.”

While the sisters were still discussing and exchanging thoughts, Yelana looked enthusiastically back and forth between the two of them, because she would never have thought that they were both so fired up about her idea. Alena, on the other hand, was lost in thought, trying to reconcile what she had seen in her trance on Honeymaren's journey with what had just been said.

~~~

Further south in Snoob …

youtube

“No, it's really no problem and we are delighted to help. Just take all the sacks with you, because our silos are full to the top due to the last three good harvests. So we have no shortage of grain,” the baker said to Kristoff and Karl, “and thanks to the windmills, grinding into flour is also much faster than it used to be when I was still learning the baker's trade.”

“You have windmills too? Haven't seen any at all,” Kristoff commented.

“They are up on the plateau where there is always enough wind. Did you know, Your Highness, that windmills were invented by Queen Iduna of Arendelle?” asked the baker and Kristoff nodded.

“Of course, she was after all the mother of my … betrothed, Queen Anna.”

�� “Sorry, that was a silly question of mine. It's just that I like to tell that story more often. We owe a lot to her invention.”

“I can understand that, but tell me, so many bags and all the other food that was donated to us today, we can't even transport them all with our cart. Can you take them to the collection point for transport to the capital? Karl knows where that is.”

“Of course, I'd be happy to. Is there anything else I can do to help?”

“Thanks, but no thanks. We're done for the day with our tour and I'm sure Arendelles citizens will be very grateful for your generosity.”

Kristoff and Karl said their goodbyes and left the bakery after Kai's brother had told the baker where the hall was from where transport was to be made in the morning. Karl had led his brother to the Baron's estate two hours ago and he had not yet returned.

“Let's go and see how Kai is doing,” Kristoff suggested and Karl agreed.

A little later they were standing in front of a stately mansion and asked the servant for admission when he opened the door.

They only had to wait a short time in the richly decorated entrance hall, which radiated a rural charm and presented oil paintings as well as some trophies of the hunt on the walls. In the middle, a wide staircase led up to a gallery, from which two corridors branched off to the left and right. In the center hung a huge oil painting showing the baron and baroness. While he stood beside her in a dress uniform decorated with several medals, with his hand on her shoulder, she sat in a flared, bouffant dress in pastel red and had her straw-blond hair pinned up. They both looked at the onlooker with smiles.

She looked relatively young to Kristoff, no older than her mid-thirties. Unfortunately, he had not had the opportunity to meet her last time and so he approached Karl about it.

“She's not as young as she looks here, the painter has embellished it a bit,” he grinned. “I don't know her exact age, but be sure that she is not much younger than the baron himself,” Karl said quietly enough so that only Kristoff could hear.

The servant returned and led them into the drawing room, where they saw Kai and the baron sitting engrossed in conversation. They both stood up as they entered and the baron immediately approached Kristoff to give him a warm welcome, grasping both his hands.

“I am pleased to have you visit me here and welcome you to my humble estate, Your Highness. My wife sends her apologies and would certainly have liked to meet you too, but she is feeling unwell today and has had a bit of a lie down. Please join us,” said the baron with a welcoming gesture. “Welcome, Karl. How is Hanna?”

“Very well, Your Excellency, thank you for asking.”

Kai bowed slightly to Kristoff as he stepped closer and took a seat beside him in the wide armchair.

When all were seated, the baron asked, “May I offer you something to drink, Your Highness? A glass of wine perhaps, or a glass of sherry?”

“Thank you, Baron, not necessary, but perhaps a glass of water?”

The baron instructed his servant to fetch what was requested from the kitchen and immediately began to address the conversation with Kai without further ado.

“We have agreed that I will take care of our queen's request as early as tomorrow morning and I feel very honoured to be able to help Arendelle in this way. In fact, I already have my own eye on a candidate from our little town for a council seat and I'm sure he would be proud to be invited to the audience at the castle.”

“That is excellent news, baron. Thank you for your help,” Kristoff replied.

“Of course, it will take some time to reach the mayors of all Snoob's settlements and elect their candidates. It is a task with great responsibility, requires many conversations and tolerates no mistakes. But I am sure in a few weeks there will be enough candidates for the queen to choose from.” He paused for a moment and then added, “For the military issues, especially the navy, you might also want to visit the naval base to the south with this request, it's only about half a day's ride from here.”

Kristoff had not yet had much experience in expressing himself appropriately to a baron in such important matters, but he knew from last time that he was very friendly and obliging. Moreover, he knew what was important to Anna and what had happened when she dismissed the old royal council. Therefore, he chose his words carefully.

“Her Majesty will be very pleased, because it is essential for her to form a new council as soon as possible. Arendelle needs people who are one hundred per cent loyal to their ruler and who, together with her choices, will make smart and wise decisions for the entire kingdom.

She will undoubtedly be very happy about this development, Baron. I will think about your suggestion of visiting the naval base, thank you very much for that advice.”

“May I take this opportunity to ask how it actually came to the dissolution of the Royal Council, because that was it, wasn't it? Kai could not give me any information about that.” The baron, who was sitting directly opposite Kristoff, looked him straight in the eye and leaned forward slightly.

Now Kristoff suddenly felt in a predouille, for this was a highly precarious question from the baron and actually he should have expected exactly that; he thought. He pondered feverishly and felt pinned down by the baron's penetrating gaze. As friendly and affable as the baron had seemed so far, with this one question and the way he asked it, he proved that he was not the baron of Snoob for nothing. Kristoff had been a little deceived, he now realised.

He thought back to that day when he had witnessed the chaos in the council hall and how some council members literally attacked Anna verbally. Kristoff thought he could still hear the reverberations of the shouting and Anna's loud reaction to it. He still felt the shiver that ran down his spine when Anna had Monrad taken away for treason and announced her clear and at the same time irrevocable decision.

“Well, as you can imagine, dear baron, I was present at that day's council meeting as crown prince. I will not go into the details here, but the queen could not help but make this decision. The capital was in direct danger and there had been cowardly and brutal attacks on the farmlands and elsewhere. Our citizens were in turmoil and the role of the council would have been to support their queen, stand fully behind her and help her make the urgent decisions that needed to be made. But unfortunately that was not the case and the queen had to crack down. She made, in my opinion, absolutely the right decision.”

There was absolute silence in the room for a few moments and Kai had held his breath during Kristoff's words, looking at him hopefully. Such moments could be the test of a crown prince. But now Kai relaxed again and smiled inwardly. Kristoff had done his job well, justifying the queen's decision with confident and diplomatic words, and beyond that, even coming to her defence. “Bravo, Your Highness“; thought Kai.

The baron had become thoughtful, lowering his gaze as he leaned back in his chair again, probably trying to imagine this situation right now.

“Yes, you are right, Your Highness. In such a perilous situation, one has to rely on the wise advice of all who are entrusted with it. If the royal council fails to do its job, or even works against its queen, then its members have forfeited their council seats.” The baron finally nodded. “The queen has acted wisely and I understand now. Thank you, Your Highness for your honest words. The queen undoubtedly has a wise and faithful betrothed by her side in you, my congratulations. You are to be envied.”

~~~

In the north, the sun had hidden above the enchanted forest and seemed unwilling to show itself again. Thick grey clouds hung over the treetops and it seemed darker than it was then under the thick blanket of mist. The birds had retreated to their nests and the other forest animals were busy looking for and hoarding supplies for the long winter.

youtube

When the sisters returned to camp with their escort, Elsa found that many Northuldra surrounded Honeymaren, asking questions about her journey and what to expect. Advice was given and help was offered. As the noadi had predicted, the first volunteers had stepped forward and offered to accompany her.

Elsa saw no chance to talk to Honeymaren undisturbed, let alone exchange caresses before they parted. She sighed and Yelana did not miss her glances at the young Northuldra. She therefore took Elsa aside for a moment.

“It's difficult for you, isn't it? I can see it.”

Elsa looked at her and just nodded. Words were superfluous here. Yelana put an arm around her shoulder comfortingly.

“Maybe you should think of something else and take a chance.”

“What do you mean? What chance?”

“I spoke to Alena yesterday and she told me all that happened at the fifth monolith and also about how you were able to see your mother again with her help. Think about it … Alena will leave tomorrow together with Honeymaren and today is the last opportunity for a whole year to ask her for something. Who knows if Alena will even come to visit us again, because she also told me that at her age such long journeys are increasingly difficult for her.”

Elsa looked at her broodingly for a while and Yelana pushed her head a little closer with her eyes open questioningly and her eyebrows raised, as if to ask “Well? No idea what I might mean?” and then suddenly a light came on for Elsa.

“Anna!” she groaned and Yelana nodded in satisfaction.

Elsa hugged her and said, “Oh, Yelana, thank you so much! That is the most wonderful idea I have ever heard! I must find Alena right away and ask her if she can do it for us and then I must explain it to Anna somehow. She'll probably hardly believe it.”

~~~

“Are you sure I can do this, Elsa? I mean, you're the fifth spirit and have magical powers, but I'm just normal human,” Anna said when they were on their way to the monoliths.

“Anna, you're not just 'normal' at all, think about what you've already achieved and that you never give up. You are the other side of the bridge and the nature spirits have confirmed you in that.” Elsa stopped and took her sister by the shoulders. Then she looked deep into her eyes.

“Alena is preparing a potion that will make it easier for us to be in a trance with our minds and travel to the in-between world. Besides, we'll stand together on the great stone, the direct link to this world. Just think what a huge and unique opportunity this is for you … not only will you be able to see Mama again and even talk to her, but for the very first time you will be standing inside Ahtohallan without the slightest danger of freezing to death! You wanted to accompany me there back then and now you can, even without any effort. I promise you, you will be thrilled!

~~~

Honeymaren was surprised that Elsa didn't appear, perhaps giving her hand signals again, but then she saw Alena walking towards the monoliths with her drum in her hand and a bag over her shoulder. What was the noaidi up to? Go on another dream trip before they both left tomorrow? Honeymaren excused herself to the surrounding Northuldra and promised to be back soon.

She strolled leisurely in the same direction as Alena at first, then ran after her as she crossed the edge of the forest.

“Alena, wait. May I go with you?”

“Certainly, Honeymaren, although I don't think you'll have much entertainment with me.”

“You go into a trance again … about tomorrow's journey, aren't you? That's why you brought your drum.”

Alena shook her head. “That's for an entirely different reason. Elsa wants to take her sister, the queen, on a spiritual journey to her mother, and they need me for that, because I'm only here for today.”

Now Honeymaren was surprised, and that explained why she hadn't seen Elsa again, when it was she who had insisted on meeting her. So that's why this sudden change of heart, because of her sister; Honeymaren said to herself and paced broodingly and silently beside Alena.

Shortly afterwards, they all met. The sisters wondered at first why Honeymaren had come along, but it soon cleared up when Alena explained.

“It will take me a while to prepare the potion, you three can talk in the meantime,” she said, rummaging various utensils from her carry bag, including some small chopped wood, tinder and flint.

“Can I have a word with you, Elsa? Alone?” asked Honeymaren, standing up.

Elsa nodded and excused herself to Anna, who knew very well what this must be about for obvious reasons.

“You go ahead … I'll watch Alena in the meantime.”

The latter was building a small fire and was now waiting for enough embers to form.

A few steps away, Honeymaren said to Elsa, “If we want to meet tonight, I know the perfect place for it, one that almost no one knows about and one that is not easily discovered.”

“And where exactly?”

“See that hill back there with the big ridge behind it?” Elsa looked and nodded. “Go to that hill after dark and keep to the right. Soon you will discover a hidden lake. You won't miss me, because I'm already waiting for you there on the shore and then I've also built a fire. Maybe I'll also catch a few trout that we can roast … we'll see.”

“All right, Maren, sounds good and I'll come. But let's better go back now, Alena seems to be ready in a minute.”

Alena just took a lot more out of her bag and Anna wondered.

“Tell me, how deep is your bag, all that stuff you're getting out of it?” laughed Anna, watching Alena with interest as she poured her special herbal mixture into the guksi and crushed it with a small mortar before adding some water from a small leather bag and tipping it into the pot, which she then placed in the middle of the embers.

“Well, everything you need for a trance like that. This is my prepared travel collection and doesn't take up that much space. Everything else will be added on the way,” Alena said, stirring the slightly simmering green brew with a reindeer bone.

Anna felt quite different when she saw and, above all, smelled it.

“And I'm supposed to drink that then? That's disgusting!”

Alena laughed. “It's not as bad as it looks, believe me,” she said and Elsa confirmed it to Anna when she came and sat down next to her. Honeymaren remained standing next to her for now.

“Alena, can you be with us later and can lead us to Ahtohallan? I'd love to show Anna,” Elsa said and Honeymaren's eyes immediately widened.

“Wait a minute, you're going to Ahtohallan too? I want to come with you there! No Northuldra has ever been inside the glacier, not even close.”

“I'm afraid that's not possible. I will only accompany you so far that you reach the in-between world. Everything else you must ask your mother's spirit. It is she who has the direct link to Ahtohallan … and no, Honeymaren, unfortunately the potion is not enough for that, nor my powers for three instead of two trance travellers. It is very exhausting for me, you must know.”

Honeymaren nodded with a pout, “Too bad …”

A few minutes later the potion was ready and she poured it back into the guksi to pass to Anna.

“Blow a little on it, it's still very hot. After that you just have to close your eyes and put your hand on one of the big monoliths. I will …”

At that moment Elsa interrupted the noaidi and told her a slight change of plan.

“Alena, we will use the fifth stone and sit together in the middle. You can sing your joik from the top then.”

“But I thought only the fifth spirit was allowed to step on this stone. You know what happened a few days ago.”

“That's true, Alena, but Anna and I together form Ahtohallan's bridge, the interface between man and the magic of nature. The two of us are the only ones who can do that without danger. And as you know, the fifth stone is the direct path to Ahtohallan.”

Elsa was right and nothing happened, not even a glow from the symbols on the other four monoliths. They both sat with their legs crossed on the star in the middle and Alena started her joik and drummed to it. Honeymaren stood next to the noaidi, who had also sat down at the edge of the large hole in the earth.

Elsa slowly drank half of the bowl and passed it to Anna. She pinched her nose and gulped down the green concoction as fast as she could, after which she screwed up her face in disgust and threw the guksi carelessly aside.

“Close your eyes and just let Alena's joik and rhythm carry you away. Concentrate on it completely and relax. You don't have to be afraid at all, Anna, I’ll be there with you the whole time and soon …”

~~~

youtube

Anna didn't notice at first how she slipped over into the trance, she only saw grey light behind her closed eyelids and thought it was the daylight she was still perceiving. She wondered if the whole ritual would work here, because after all it was Elsa with the special abilities and not her. At the beginning, Anna wasn't scared of what would happen, but then the grey turned into a bright silver that wafted and moved.

Usually, Anna was not afraid of heights and had even climbed onto the castle’s roof once, but what happened next took her breath away since she couldn't believe what was happening. Anna was frightened to the core, rowing her arms in the hope of finding a foothold somewhere. But there was absolutely nothing she could grasp and instead thought she was falling into groundlessness. Anna had to gag. At least that's what she thought, because she quickly realised that her body was not reacting as she expected. She couldn't feel it at all.

Moments later, she noticed that she was floating in place, above an infinite green grassy plain far, far below her, with a wide river winding through it. Nothing here apparently had substance or weight. So her body and her sensations had been pure imagination. She turned her head to the side. Elsa hovered right next to her and grinned at her.

“Why are you grinning at me like that? You could have given me a heads up, couldn't you? That wasn't funny just now, Elsa!”

“Sorry, sis, I forgot that because of my magic I'm better prepared for unexpected things and therefore easier to cope with. It should be clear to you that we are not here at all, Anna. Our spirit, our soul is the one who is traveling into this world, while our body is still sitting motionless on the stone. Here in this timeless world you only need to think and you are already in motion. But if you want just take my hand and I'll guide you.”

Anna thought it in jest and in the next moment actually held her sister's hand.

“Wow, this is actually so easy, but then how do you explain that we can talk and hear each other when we don't even have a body here?”

Elsa tapped her temple, “Only in here, Anna. Our minds are connected, so to speak.”

“I still don't understand how that works. How can that be?”

“I haven't given it much thought until now and just accepted it, it's just the way it is. Go ahead and try it out, sis, so you can get a feel for it. Absolutely nothing can happen, because Alena is watching over us and guiding us to our destination. Oh and don't worry about time, because it passes many times slower here than in the real world.”

“Oh no, I'd rather not. I'd just like to get to Mama as soon as possible to give her a hug and tell her all the things I couldn't.”

~~~

Just like last time, they floated down to the entrance of the glacier, only this time there was no magical bell of mist visible. Instead, Iduna was already waiting for them in an aura of light and Elsa wondered if Mother was actually watching their every move from here and thus, as she promised her then, watching over her daughters.

When Anna recognised her figure, tears of joy immediately flowed down her face and Elsa was deeply moved by her spontaneous reaction. Her sister must have thought of a heartfelt embrace, because while Elsa slowly floated down, she was already in Iduna's arms, crying.

“Mama … “

Iduna also had tears in her eyes when she could finally hold her Anna in her arms.

“My darling … oh how I wished that we would meet again one day, even if it is only this way. Let me look at you.” Iduna held her at a little distance and looked her up and down. “How grown up you have become and you look almost like I used to in my gakti. I'm so proud of you for being the Queen of Arendelle now, my darling. Elsa, come here to me too … I want to hug you both.”

Iduna finally held her two daughters together in her arms, Anna sobbed into her shoulder and Elsa internalised every second of this reunion together.

“I've already told your big sister that I'll always look after you both and I haven't let you out of my sight for a moment. What you have achieved together is just unbelievable. I am so proud of you both, especially that you have finally found each other again after all these years apart. Papa would be so happy about that.”

“'Papa? Do you know where he is? Is he … okay? I mean, like you, Mama?” asked Anna, looking pleadingly into Iduna's blue eyes.

“I'm afraid I don't know, little one,” she replied, stroking her cheek tenderly, while Elsa, still half in an embrace, sadly bowed her head.

“I've wanted to ask you the same thing all along, Mama, but events never really allowed it,” she said, and Iduna looked at her sympathetically.

“I know, my little snowflake, I've always felt that, but couldn't answer it myself. Perhaps Ahtohallan has only protected his own, since the beginning of time. You two are my direct descendants and therefore half Northuldra. But your papa, as much as I loved him …”

For a few moments, each looked down at the ground in dismay, not saying a word, and loosened their embrace again.

After a few moments, Elsa broke the silence.

“I couldn't stand it when we found the shipwreck, Mama, and from the remnants of the water of the dark sea in the ship's planks I restored the memory of your very last moment with the help of my magic. I needed to know what had happened to you both and why you had sailed to Ahtohallan. We both wondered and saw that terrible moment, heard your last words, felt the love for each other and learned the true reason for your journey. To find out the truth about my magic … of Ahtohallan.”

“I saw you begin it, Elsa, and also saw the ice sculpture of me and my Agnarr form. But I could not watch that moment to the end because the memory of our deaths was simply unbearable to me,” Iduna replied sadly. “But what you don't know is that just before the cold waves came over us, I saw a vision of the two of you in the sea, grown up and finally reunited. I called out to Gale, as I did when I rescued your father, thinking Ahtohallan had shown me, but alas I received no reply. I was still going to tell Agnarr and he hugged me, but then …”

Anna began to cry again and Iduna took her in her arms comfortingly.

“Can you tell us more about the time before, Mama? Did Papa know at some point that you were a Northuldra and saved him?” asked Anna, sniffling.

“Oh yes, my child. I told him everything that day and we also talked about you two. I felt it was a great mistake to keep you apart for fear Elsa would not be in control of her emotions and magic. Agnarr and I agreed in the end that once we were back, everything would change. And do you know why, Anna?”

“Why?” she asked softly.

“Because we both had faith in you that you could hold up the world with your love. We wanted to tell you all about Elsa because you were beginning to grow up. Your Papa still had doubts because your sister could be overwhelmed by her feelings, even for joy, not just for her anxiety. But I told him that if anyone could help Elsa, it was you, Anna. Agnarr finally agreed with me and said there was hardly anything you couldn't do. Agnarr and I had every intention of telling you everything, Anna. We loved you so much … both of you, and we believed in you. And I still do! Come here, you two, and let me hug you again.”

“Thank you, Mama, for everything and for always being there for us,” Anna said through tears and Elsa added, “and also for never giving up believing in me.”

~~~

They talked for a long time, shed tears and rejoiced together. Finally they could ask Iduna all the things that had been on their minds for a long time and got all the answers about why and what had happened in detail. Elsa and Anna poured out their hearts and when Iduna began to take Anna on a mental, fantastic journey into the past and also into the in-between world here, Elsa left the two of them to themselves and did not want to disturb.

Elsa thought and was satisfied, more than ever before. At some point Anna returned from this journey and the moment had come to ask Iduna one last question.

“'Mama, I would like to show Anna Ahtohallan and what I experienced there before I became the Fifth Spirit. Anna wanted to come with me then, but I thought it was far too dangerous. So I just sent her away with Olaf and I think she was pretty upset about it.”

“You bet I was, even Olaf was. He of all people didn't know such feelings yet and couldn't believe you just put us in that ice boat any more than I could!”

“I'm sorry, Anna. I just wanted you to be safe and I made the way back to the Northuldra camp out of ice.”

“But then we ended up on the river by the earth giants and fell into a dark cave, all because of you, Elsa!”

“But it wasn't planned that way, Anna. If you hadn't left the path, and you must have, then …”

Iduna interrupted them both abruptly. “Please stop arguing!”

Affected silence fell and they both realised that they were about to ruin a wonderful moment. They apologised ruefully.

“Well … I don't know if that's possible, Elsa,” Iduna finally said. “But I know why you ask and also what your reason was for sending Anna away. You couldn't have known it at that moment, but your sister wouldn't have survived the cold there. So your hunch was right, and Anna, in the end Elsa's action was a good thing, because otherwise you wouldn't have been able to free the forest and the Northuldra with her help. Everything happened in the end exactly as it should.”

Iduna did some soul-searching for a moment and then continued speaking. “'However, I am sorry that you had to think that your sister was dead, Anna, because she went too far. You remember that lullaby I was singing to you when you were little. I mean, so were you for a while, Elsa, and frozen. But Ahtohallan didn't allow it in the end because your sister, at the risk of her life, managed to right the wrongs of that time.”

Iduna sighed, “All right, we could go in as far as the Hall of Memories, and provided Ahtohallan helps me, you could see your experiences there again, of both of you. As you know, Ahtohallan is a river of memories and nothing is forgotten there. But I won't take you deeper into it, even I am not allowed to, because all the memories slumber there until the beginning of time.”

Elsa and Anna looked at each other questioningly and then nodded excitedly at Iduna.

“Well, wait a moment …” Iduna closed her eyes and her aura weakened a little, even flickered a bit, but it only lasted a second or two, then she nodded. “We can go.”

~~~

It hadn't gotten much later when they both came out of the trance, though they felt like days had passed. Anna sat quietly, a rapt expression on her face, while Elsa looked at her, smiling.

“There you are again,” Alena said from above. “Have you seen all you wanted and are you satisfied?”

“Oh yes, Alena, more than that,” Elsa replied half aloud, “it was a magical experience and obviously very special for Anna.” She looked around, “Maren left already?”

“Yes, a few minutes ago. She wanted to go back to the camp.”

“Oh crap,” Anna said suddenly and the other two looked at her in surprise. She opened her eyes and looked at her sister. “We forgot to ask what happened to Kolgrimr …”

~~~

youtube

Far down, at the deepest point of the glacier, where not even the semblance of daylight penetrated the thick ice, two frozen figures stood close together. One could have mistaken them for two banished memories if one stood in front of them with a torch in this absolutely deadly cold, but it was Kolgrimr and Gyda who had fallen into oblivion here.

However, what the onlooker wouldn't see was that both were still alive and kicking and trapped down there in eternal torment. Punished until the end of time and possibly also a morbid pastime for Ahtohallan to listen to their thoughts sometimes. But not only that, for Ahtohallan had made sure that both could hear each other's thoughts and berate each other eternally for their failures.

Ahtohallan ensured that their minds stayed awake and experienced day after day all that caused them the most torment and did not eventually succumb to madness. Every single day began over and over again for both of them.

Kolgrimr relived all the moments when he had failed, when he was always just about to reach his goal and still missed it. Each time he experienced the evil pranks of their invisible yet extremely effective ghost, who later turned out to be Honeymaren. And he was even more annoyed that he had been so stupid not to think of her brother Ryder, whom he could not sense and who had set the ball rolling by freeing his sister. If only he had killed him; he thought ruefully. At the end of the day, the same scenes repeated themselves over and over again, the fight at the fifth monolith, which he lost and where he was deceived by Elsa, whom he hated so abysmally, and she - in spite of all his efforts - finally achieved the liberation of Ahtohallan.

He saw her standing before him as the fifth Spirit in her radiant robe, heard Anna's laughter again and again watched the errant throw of his battle staff with the sharp blade on it before the earth giants grabbed him and his mother at the end and carried them away. Kolgrimr felt abysmal anger and equally great regret for himself. He imagined how everyone laughed at him and how absolutely no one would remember him in the years that followed.

Gyda, on the other hand, was plagued by a draugr that followed her wherever she went and lurked in the shadows. She lived through all her fears since the time when her husband left her, took her son away from her and she was cast out by the Northuldra.

She saw her son lying drunk in the tent with his new ally who wanted to be king, along with all his men who lay snoring around him in the camp. She witnessed his multiple failures and the careless way in which he had failed to stop his prisoners from escaping, on the very ship this Thord had arrived on.

She began to reproach her son and give endless advice on how he could have done better if only he had listened to her. And then he would angrily yell at her to shut her mouth and finally stop her annoying nagging. And all this repeated itself over and over again, day after day, and would go on for eternity.

For this was Ahtohallan's punishment for the unspeakable atrocities committed against his charges, the Northuldra, and the innocent people of Arendelle. For the death of Iduna and the attempt to kill her daughter, his fifth spirit, and ultimately for the betrayal of Ahtohallan himself, for Kolgrimr had separated him and the nature spirits from the world and wanted to banish him forever in order to rule himself and thus bring disaster to all.

~~~

---

Tagging: @true--north @annaofthenorthernlights @dronning-formynder05

#frozen #frozen2 #frozen3 #fanfic #epic novel #the broken bridge #chapter 74 #bigfrozenfan #Youtube

11 notes · View notes

bigfrozenfan-fanfics · 3 months

Text

Chapter 73 - Surprises and a nomination

Links: Chapter overview, Character list, Map, Glossar Rating: M over all Publishing cycle: around every 2-3 weeks

“Alena, are you awake yet?” asked one of the men in the lavvú camp, standing in front of one of the tents. For the noaidi, one of it had been dismantled from Kolgrimr's former camp and rebuilt right next to those of her twenty men especially for Alena. “We need to speak to you urgently,” he said somewhat impatiently.

There was nothing to be heard inside, but the next moment the tent’s canvas was pushed aside and Alena stepped out into the fresh air of dusk.

“I'm awake, I've been awake for a while actually, because I was meditating. What's up?”

“We smell winter approaching and so do our reindeer. They are getting impatient and are ready to migrate to the winter camp with the other herds. We need to get back to our families, Alena. It's time.”

The noaidi nodded. “Yes, you are right about it and I too feel it is high time. Many families who have a further way to go than you and I will surely already be on their way north. However, I'm afraid I must stay here in the Northuldra camp for another day and night, for there is something very important for me to do. Therefore, if you do not mind, I would like to ask you all to ride ahead. Dismantle the lavvús and get ready to leave. I will see you on the plateau in two days.”

“Árnason is staying here too? We could take him with us.”

“No, that's all right. I'd like his company on the way back and he can help me on the road. Tell his family that it will be a little late and everything will be all right. They don't need to worry.”

“We will. Please take good care of each other and good luck.”

~~~

youtube

Elsa had left the kota early and was strolling leisurely through the camp, looking for Yelana. She felt very well this morning, although she had hardly been able to sleep last night after what had happened. It had also become quite chilly and she was looking forward to these temperatures. “I don't mind the cold … finally, it’s here again,” she muttered to herself and, just for fun, let a few big snowflakes form on her hand and float above it.

I wonder where the nature spirits have gone, Ahtohallan is free again now; she thought and looked around to see if she could spot Bruni or Gale somewhere, but saw nothing that pointed to them. Nokk hadn't shown itself yet either and the earth giants preferred to stay among themselves anyway, along the river to the north. She shrugged her shoulders, perhaps she would summon them later today.

There were hardly any Northuldra on the way yet, she really was an incorrigible early riser, as Anna sometimes joked. But then she did run into someone, just as she was turning around one of the huts. Suddenly Honeymaren was standing in front of her and they both just smiled at each other silently at first. Then, for a change, it was Elsa who took the initiative, taking Honeymaren completely by surprise. After a quick sideways glance to make sure no one was watching, she stepped forward and gave her a gentle kiss on her full lips.

“Good morning, Maren,” she wished her softly with a smile and that made Honeymaren beam. She immediately fell around Elsa's neck and kissed her back, with passion. Elsa returned the embrace and even played with Honeymaren's tongue because she was doing the same to her. It was a situation she could never have imagined before last night. It felt great to taste Honeymaren's lips and tongue, to feel her body heat and to breathe in the scent she gave off so soon after getting up.

Maren has made a different person out of me; Elsa thought with amazement and at the same time great satisfaction and they smiled happily at each other as they parted again.

“Why are you out so early in the morning?” asked Honeymaren.

“I could ask you the same thing. You probably couldn't sleep, could you? I, on the other hand, am just an early riser and wanted to see if Yelana was awake yet. I want to talk to her about what brought us here in the first place because of her.”

“And that would be?”

“I don't know, that's the thing. She acted very secretive and we supposedly really needed to see it before we could talk about it and decide.”

“Strange … I can't even think what it could be.” Honeymaren mused strained. “Except …” Her eyes widened. “It can only be one thing really! Yes, I'm pretty sure of that now, but …”

“But?”

“It's a Northuldra secret that no outsider has ever been privy to. It was even whispered to me once by Ryder that Yelana specifically did not invite you to it then because of … because of the danger you posed to our people when Kolgrimr had not yet shown himself but the effects caused by him were already being felt. Everyone was pretty scared.”

“Wait, it has something to do with Kolgrimr? What is it that Yelana has been keeping from us so far?”

“No, nothing about Kolgrimr, it's about our Ting place.”

“Your what?” Elsa was completely taken aback and stared at Honeymaren with big question marks in her eyes.

But Honeymaren suddenly shut up and said, “It's probably better Yelana explains it to you. I'm not allowed to talk about it and I've actually already told you too much.”

“I see …” Elsa looked at her sadly and put a hand on her shoulder. “I'm revealing something to you too, but it's something I'm not really supposed to talk about to you either.”

“What?” Honeymaren looked at her uncomprehendingly.

“Just this much … maybe you will make these kinds of decisions all by yourself in the future.”

“Well, that … I guess that's it then. I've suspected it for a while now, ever since Yelana made those hints to me, but then said nothing more about it. At the time, my mind was also elsewhere.”

Elsa nodded, no longer seeing any reason to keep it from her when she already suspected or thought she knew anyway, “You're right about that. Yelana feels she is too old to lead the Northuldra and wants to nominate you as her successor officially.” They strolled on as they spoke without taking any particular direction.

“Well, I knew it. But for that she needs all the Northuldra and the remaining elders, and that can only be done in one place. All right, if she has already earmarked me for this, then I might as well tell you the secret and about our Ting House, where all important decisions are made that affect us all as a people. Actually, the assembly is called Norting and apparently goes back to centuries of tradition when we had a noaidi and a grand council of elders. There is even a separate entrance for her and I know from Alena that her assembly tent, her big lavvú, also has such an entrance. It's comparable to your council meetings in Arendelle, only with us it's not just a few but almost everyone who votes at the end.”

“That makes sense,” Elsa mused, “and yet Yelana is planning something that will affect all of Arendelle and she also spoke of great changes and a new opportunity with many new possibilities.”

“Hmm … I wonder what that could be. You've really got me curious now. Come on, let's look for her together, because last night she wanted to talk to me urgently and I want to bet it all boils down to me and the Norting. Incidentally, that would be something I would change first and foremost should I become the new leader. And I'm not even sure about that yet, by the way.”

“And what do you want to change?”

“Until now, only men of a certain age were allowed to participate in our Norting, with the exception of Yelana as our leader, of course, but otherwise no women. And yet we do so much for all our people, not only taking care of the little ones and raising them, cooking, making clothes for the men and all that. Even our healer hasn't been allowed to come so far and she really takes care of everyone. That has to change and become the way it used to be and where among our council of elders there were also many of us women, so we had an equal say. After all, this concerns all our people here in the forest!”

“That's a really excellent resolution, Maren, and …. hey, we've arrived at the beach after all, I wasn't paying attention to where we were going,” Elsa said in surprise as they suddenly stepped onto sand.

“Neither did I. It's interesting that we both keep being drawn to the same place. Maybe that means something, who knows “

Surprisingly, they found Yelana sitting there on their tree trunk and Honeymaren remembered that she too liked to get up very early and seek the peace of nature. What better place to do so than this place and they both exchanged meaningful glances.

“Excuse me, Yelana, but may we disturb you?” asked Elsa quietly as they both stepped behind her.

Yelana startled slightly and wheeled around.

“You two, and together … interesting.”

Elsa and Honeymaren looked at each other questioningly. Elsa in particular wondered at this remark.

“You're not interrupting, of course, so please come closer and sit with me.”

They both settled down to the left and right of Yelana, and the first thing they did was to wish her a good morning.

“How can I help you both?” asked Yelana.

“You know why, or surely you can already guess,” said Honeymaren.

“You mean because of what I told you yesterday, when your family and everyone else arrived from Arendelle, that you and I had something important to discuss?” Yelana turned her head once to Elsa and then back to Honeymaren, then cradled it gently. “Could you two perhaps sit down next to each other, so I don't have to keep looking back and forth.”

“But of course, Yelana, sorry,” Elsa said, switching sides to sit close to Honeymaren on her right.

“Well, actually I wanted to discuss this matter with Honeymaren alone first, before announcing the event to our people, and with it the surprise for you, Elsa, why I wanted you and the queen to be there. But looking at you both and how close you seem to have become since yesterday, I might as well speak frankly.”

“Nothing escapes your notice, does it?” asked Honeymaren, amused.

“Only rarely, Honeymaren, that's true.” Yelana had to think back at that moment to one of the few deceptions in her life, when Gyda had lied to her about her son Kolgrimr and she had foolishly defended and taken the old liar's side at the Norting as well.

However, her expression must have reflected her feelings because Honeymaren asked, “Are you all right?”

“Yes, yes, it's nothing, just a sudden memory.” Yelana's face brightened again. “Well, I'm sure you can already guess that I want to put you forward as my successor in front of all the Northuldra, and I also assume that you've already spoken to Elsa about it. And that I can only make this announcement in a special place has probably already been told to you, Elsa, by Honeymaren as well, hasn't it?”

“How …”

“Experience, Elsa, good judge of character and powers of observation. Something you still lack a little, by the way, Honeymaren, but that will come in time.” Yelana sighed. “But I feel there is more … and it's between the two of you. And before you ask, Elsa, I've known about Honeymaren's love for you for a long time. I'm just surprised that despite my advice to her about the far-flung locations and the vast difference from you of royal blood, you two seem to have found each other after all and are, shall we say …. together as lovers.”

Elsa's jaw dropped, something that really happened to her only extremely rarely, but she could not reply because she was too perplexed. She had already realised in the castle of Arendelle that evening from Yelana's look that she knew about Maren's feelings for her, but the fact that Yelana had now also seen through their fresh relationship was something completely different.

Yelana grinned slightly, “But are you sure about the consequences and the difficulties such a relationship entails? You are the big sister of the queen and you have a lot of duties in Arendelle, Elsa, besides the big responsibility. As for you, Honeymaren, know exactly how our people feel about such a union, If they ever discover your secret, you and Elsa would face severe consequences, you may even be banished. You will have to lead them all in the future and make decisions for our people.”

They both nodded and nevertheless looked at each other unabashedly in love in the presence of the old, wise Northuldra.

“We know that, Yelana, and I am grateful that Maren has shown me a side of life that is completely new to me. Besides, Anna would even approve this relationship and she has suspected it for some time. As for Maren and her people, we're already paying attention.”

“Maren then, very nice that name … I'm happy for you and after you saw the secret place and my ideas about it as far as Arendelle is concerned, I now even see a new way for you to be together. At least for a certain time. But more about that tonight under six … er …” Yelana counted briefly, “… no eight eyes, because Anna has to be there too, and by the way, it's good that she probably already knows. Right?”

Elsa fussed a little. “Well, not really yet. I … we still have to tell her.”

~~~

youtube

Anna woke up with a shudder and pulled the reindeer skin up a little further to her chin to snuggle in tightly. She blinked and realised by the light from above and from the light coming in through the gaps in the hut's flap that it was already daytime. She just didn't know what time it was.

It had become quite cold, so cold that she was shivering slightly, and she had no nightgown with her this time, so was lying completely naked under the fur blanket. Stupidly, her clothes would hardly protect her from the cold today, for she had not expected wintry temperatures, at least not so soon.

She glanced to the side where Elsa was supposed to be lying, but of course she wasn't there and had probably already got up hours ago. How long had she been asleep, she wondered, and peeled herself out of the covers to dress and look outside.

As she pushed the flap outwards she heard two pairs of boots clap together in salute to her left and right as the guards stood at attention and placed the outstretched fingers of their right hands to their temples to salute their queen, looking at her freely, courageously and with a decent face.

“Take it easy, boys, we're not in Arendelle,” Anna muttered as she stepped out and gave them a quick, smirking look. “Good morning, by the way. Do you know where my sister Elsa is?”

One of the guards replied. “She left the hut hours ago, but asked not to be followed, Your Majesty.” Anna nodded, pondering.

It was indeed an advanced morning and the cooking fires with small cauldrons on them for breakfast were already going everywhere. Or was it already noon? Anna couldn't tell as she glanced up shiveringly at the overcast sky with no visible sun.

“Why didn't Elsa wake me,” she muttered to herself, trudging through the camp in search of her, slightly annoyed. “Well, maybe it's because she didn't think about the fact that, unlike her, I do mind this cold?” she scolded herself, holding her hands over the flames of the nearest campfire to warm them. “I really need something warm to wear around my neck.”

She was still wondering if it was time for breakfast, or worse, lunch already. Elsa had been awake for a long time and was off somewhere in the camp. If Kristoff were there now, he would surely give me a loving hug and rub my back and arms nice and warm; she thought. “I miss him already, even though it's only been a few days,” she then whispered, looking into the flames in front of her, but seeing into an imaginary distance where Kristoff was walking towards her, waving at her with a smile.

~~~

A few hundred kilometers further south …

“A wonderful good morning,” Karl wished his two guests good-humouredly as they came down the stairs, “Please sit down, breakfast will be ready in a moment.”

“You too, Karl,” Kristoff said with a smile and looked for an empty chair at the table.

Kai hugged his brother briefly, holding him at a distance again to look him in the eye and said, “It's so nice to have breakfast together with you and your sweetheart after so long. You even changed almost nothing in my old room. Unfortunately, I didn't have time to go upstairs last time. When I look at my old things and think of the past …”

“I know, because I always firmly believed that you would return to visit us one day! Please sit down in your usual place opposite me.”

Kai settled down and looked around the rustic living room curiously.

“I don't see much that's new here either, Karl, except that painting over there, which I haven't seen before.”

“That was painted for us by the neighbour's daughter. She's very talented and often walks across the plateau with her easel. We really like this view of the valley and we told her so. She wouldn't let it go and just gave it to us the next day when it was finished.”

“I know this viewpoint, I stood there once too many, many years ago and a little further away from it we both stood when I was here last time, when we had our big reunion after so many years and looked down into the valley. That was really nice to experience with you, Karl. So I see you and I still have the same taste.”

At that moment Karl's wife came in with a full tray and put it on the table to serve everything for breakfast.

“Good morning,” she said cheerfully to the group and then looked directly at Kristoff. “I didn't know what you eat in the mornings in Arendelle, Your Highness, so I have prepared what Karl and Kai always like. It's just simple country produce, of course, but I hope you like it anyway,” she added apologetically after sliding a plate over to each and placing the rest in the middle.

“My personal tastes are not that different, because I love fresh scrambled eggs and country bread with lots of butter on it,” Kristoff said, his mouth already watering at the sight of the steaming plate. “Thank you very much, and please just call me Kristoff, …um…”

“Hanna, my name is Hanna.”

“Hanna, yes … We don't have to be so formal here with Kai's family.”

She poured tea into the waiting cups and sat down.

They enjoyed their breakfast in silence and could hear a few chickens clucking through the half-open window outside and a barking dog in the distance, still very small from the sound of it. He seemed to be romping around with some small children, because bright laughter also came from them.

As Kristoff finished eating, took the cup, sat back contentedly in the chair and took a sip of herbal tea, he said, “I like these happy, rural sounds. It's very different in Arendelle. It's always a bit noisy there because of the sounds at the harbour, the market and the rattling of the horse-drawn carts on the cobblestones. And you can't miss our big tower clock either.”

Just as he had said this, a longcase clock near the stairs struck not exactly quietly. Kristoff startled a little and everyone had to laugh at that.

“Sorry, Kristoff,” Hanna said, “but as for the latter, we have something like that too, only a little smaller.”

“It's okay, I just hadn't seen it or I would have been forewarned.”

“It's eight now, so why don't we go on a tour of the village and ask the farmers about the supplies they can spare for Arendelle. We can also ask the two bakers here for flour,” said Karl, looking at the large clock face.

“And afterwards, please don't forget to ask the baron if he can spare some time for me,” Kai added and Karl nodded at him.

“But of course, I haven't forgotten.” He glanced at Hanna as she stood up. “Is there anything else we can help you with, dear?”

“Leave everything, I'll clear the table by myself. You'd better get going, because this is all going to take a lot of time, I'm sure. See you later,” she said, already starting to put everything on the tray.

~~~

youtube

In the far north, Anna was sitting at one of the larger campfires in the Northuldra camp, also enjoying her breakfast. She was glad that it wasn't as late as she had feared, but she hadn't discovered Elsa, even though she had searched the whole camp. Instead, a Northuldra could help her with her problem because she was so cold. She felt much better now and the hot soup that had been made from the leftovers from last night did the rest.

Just then, Arendelle's stable boy Lars walked by with Árnason by his side, engrossed in conversation, and she greeted them both. Lars didn't recognise Anna right away, but then was all the more startled and bowed deeply before continuing on with his new friend, who only waved at Anna with a smile. At that moment, Anna spotted her sister stepping out of the forest with Yelana and Honeymaren and coming closer. As they were about to pass her, Anna rose.

“So there you are Elsa, been looking for you all morning. Good morning, Yelana and Honeymaren.”

Everyone immediately stopped their discussion, for Anna had the impression from the gestures that it was one, and looked at her in some amazement.

“What's that strange thing you're wearing?” asked Elsa with raised eyebrows, looking her up and down. The other two could only grin.

“Well, I was freezing and had a woman make me a poncho out of reindeer fur. All that's really missing is a belt to hold the monstrosity together.”

Elsa laughed, “Oh, sis, you're always good for a little surprise. But I guess we can have something better made for you, can't we Yelana? Something that would go well with Kristoff's leather outfit. That's what you like so much about him, isn't it?”

“That would be great, Elsa. This one ruins my figure a lot, but I just couldn't think of anything better and I needed something to warm me up real quick.”

“You poor thing,” Elsa commented, stepping towards her to wrap her in her arms. “Got rather surprisingly cold, I agree.”

“If you'll let me sit with you later, I'll get us something from yesterday too, Elsa, and see where Mum and Ryder are while I'm at it,” Honeymaren remarked.

“Of course,” Anna and Elsa said almost simultaneously.

“And I'll go ahead and inform everyone,” Yelana added, nodding at them and making off with Honeymaren.

“What does she mean by that?” asked Anna as they both sat on the long wooden log in front of the fire.

“It's about what Yelana wants to show us and about a special gathering of the Northuldra because of Ma … Honeymaren.”

“Ha, gotcha!” exclaimed Anna. “You were about to say Maren again. That's how you addressed her last time here in the camp a long time ago, when we had to flee from Kolgrimr.”

Elsa twisted the corner of her mouth and looked at her sister with a slightly lowered gaze. Anna raised her eyebrows in response. “Is there something I should know, sis?” she added, somewhat stretched.

“Well … er …,” Elsa swayed her head uncertainly, as Anna had seen Yelana do occasionally.

“Now tell me,” her sister urged, nudging her lightly.

Elsa expelled the air. She just had to confess it to Anna and hoped she wasn't too scared about it. “We've been together since last night, Maren and I.”

Anna's breath caught and she could only stare at Elsa for seconds. Then she hugged her tightly.

“Really now? Like, really as a couple?” she then asked as she held her sister by the shoulders a little away from her and looked deep into her eyes. Elsa nodded bashfully.

“But that's great! You've finally found the courage to do it. I'm so happy for you! What did you do? Did you kiss her and all the the romantic stuff?”

“Anna!”

“You can still ask your sister about it, can't you? I'm so curious how you experienced it and how it came about so suddenly. Tell me … come on … please, give me some details …” Anna was all excited and had to think back to her conversation with Elsa under the radiant night sky, with the soft background music from the field camp.

“It kind of came naturally and by the way it was more than just a kiss, Anna. It was … beautiful with her and … exciting,” Elsa replied softly.

“You had really made love to each other and you … even down there … caressed?” Elsa nodded.

“But only she me.”

“Wow, I experienced the same thing with Kristoff … In the bath and later in bed too.”

“But not with the … I guess.” Elsa pointed tentatively at her mouth.

“Oh yes he did! He did and it was fantastic. Now I know how you must have felt.”

Elsa smiled dreamily. “Yes, I'll never forget that either … my first time. She was so gentle and tender, Anna, but then also so tempestuous, you can't imagine. Next time I will try to do the same for her if we get a chance. After all, here with the Northuldra, unlike in Arendelle, it's taboo.” Anna nodded in understanding.

“You amaze me, sis, that you were able to jump over your own shadow and finally put your heart and soul to a great love. I'm proud of you and very delighted you have found someone who loves you for what you are.” Anna hugged her again and out of the corner of her eye saw Honeymaren coming towards her, balancing three guksis in front of her.

“I'm back and I brought you something warm,” she said as she sat down next to them and handed over the bowls.

“Thank you,” they both said, and while Elsa began to eat, Anna unintentionally looked at Honeymaren a little more closely, looking at her with different eyes than before, now that she was her sister's lover. But Honeymaren noticed these glances immediately, paused with the spoon in front of her mouth and lowered it again in surprise to look at Elsa reprovingly.

“Elsaa? You've been chatting with Anna, haven't you?”

Elsa almost spluttered the stew out of her mouth and looked at Honeymaren from the side, caught. All three women now looked wordlessly into each other's eyes in turn, not quite knowing how to react. The secret was out now and there was no turning back.

“Don't worry, Maren … I can call you Maren, can't I? I don't mind at all, really. Elsa and I have no secrets from each other and I can only say it's nice that you two have found each other and are happy. Because I am too, for my dear sister who has finally discovered love for herself,” she said smiling with an affectionate look at Elsa.

Honeymaren breathed a sigh of relief. “It's all right then. Elsa already told me that you wouldn't mind such a relationship.”

No one said anything more and instead contentedly spooned the delicious stew into themselves. A little later, Elsa stood up and asked for the empty guksis.

“I'll go to the camp and take the bowls right away. I'll also make sure with Yelana that you get something better to wear, sis.”

When she was gone and out of sight, Anna moved a little closer to Honeymaren. Her expression darkened as she did so and when she had her face just inches from Honeymaren's, she raised her index finger in the air in front of her in warning.

“I can promise you one thing though, Honeymaren. If you ever harm or hurt my sister and make her cry, you will bitterly regret it. Because if you do, I will finish you off.”^

Honeymaren took hold of Anna's index finger and slowly pushed her hand down. She smiled in understanding and nodded slightly in response. Then she replied in a low voice, "Anna, I know you care deeply for your big sister and I will protect her with my own life if I have to, you just have to believe that. I will never hurt Elsa, because I love her more than anything."

~~~

youtube

In the afternoon, Anna wore a gakti tailored for her and, except for her strawberry-blond long hair, was hardly distinguishable from the Northuldra around her. She found the clothes very comfortable and they also warmed much better than her royal traveling clothes with the short bolero over the thin dress. She was especially taken with the comfortably warm fur boots, which looked confusingly like Kristoff's.

It was a long procession across the forest, always heading north. They walked for almost an hour between first light birch trees and then through increasingly dense vegetation. When they finally arrived in front of a wide brook, the way seemed to go no further, because on the opposite side high bushes blocked the way. At least that's how it looked at first glance.

But Anna and Elsa only had to follow the others and waded across a shallow ford to the other bank. Where just a green wall prevented them from going further, a narrow path suddenly opened up as the Northuldra bent the branches to the side in front of them.

What they saw then, as they stepped into the almost circular large clearing beyond, took both of their breath away. There was something magical about this place and the unusual, large building in the middle of it.

Yelana stood waiting not far in front of them, facing them.

“How did you guys build this?” asked Elsa, impressed, as she stood in front of her. “It looks like the birch trees grew through the roof and are supporting the whole building. And then there are these straight as a die tall birch trees all around the outside. Even our best builders in Arendelle can't get that right. You have indeed not promised too much, Yelana.”

Anna, too, stood open-mouthed and finally looked up at the open spire, which had a pyramid-shaped little roof above it. Someone was standing up there looking down at them.

“I'll tell you my idea for this a little later, after I've made the proposal to my people and it's been voted on. Why don't you go ahead inside? I have to meet someone first and I'll be right up.”

The sisters followed the others through a large double doorway inside into a large hall that was already well filled. Both looked up in amazement at an impressive, free-hanging construction of a winding staircase that led up to the top of the tower. The crowd in front of them made way and let them through to the front, to where Honeymaren was already standing and waiting at the foot of this staircase with an equally astonished face.

Behind them now the entrance was closed audibly loud and it became quiet in the hall. Everyone was waiting for something, or rather someone, because shortly after Yelana, followed by Alena, entered through a side door and went forward to join the three of them.

She stood in front of them, while Alena went to Honeymaren's side and nodded to her. The noaidi had her drum in her hand and the young Northuldra already guessed what she was going to do with it.

“Thank you all for coming. I will now share with you why I have called a Norting,” Yelana began. “Today will change many things for us and I hope for the better. Today is also a very special day because for the first time in many decades, a noaidi is present and will look into the near future for us.”

All eyes then turned to Alena and Honeymaren nodded imperceptibly.

“I have to tell you today that I have grown too old to remain as your leader and will be leaving you shortly.”

A murmur went through the crowd and many a person shouted “But why?”, or “We want you to stay, Yelana!”, “After all these decades you want to leave us? We need you, Yelana!” and other voices. The old Northuldra gave them a pass and felt grateful for these heartfelt reactions.

When things quieted down again, she continued speaking. “The danger from Kolgrimr and his allies is finally over, our people are safe again and we see the open sky above us. We, the people of the Sun, will have a new leader, someone who has courageously proven herself and significantly helped to banish this danger at the risk of her own life and even had to suffer a heavy loss. You all know and love her, because I am talking here about Honeymaren Nattura!”

There was actually almost no one in the hall who was not astonished by this and this could be clearly read in the faces. But no one started the grumbling or cried out.

“You must be wondering if it's the right choice, and even though I'm firmly convinced of it myself, in a moment Alena, who was actually just visiting and got dragged into the tragic story, will look into the future for us.” Yelana waved behind her, beckoning the two to join her. “Please both step forward.”

Honeymaren and Alena complied, the young Northuldra keeping her head down and her hands crossed in front of her.

“Alena was an instrumental ally in the outcome of the war, for she discovered and uncovered a fifth monolith and guided Elsa, our fifth Spirit, to the spiritual plane, where she was ultimately able to free Ahtohallan and, with whose help Kolgrimr and his evil mother Gyda were banished forever. You can all imagine what our future would be like if this had turned out differently. Ryder Nattura and his new friend Indu from the far north, together with Honeymaren and Elsa, fought our enemy Kolgrimr at that fifth monolith and together they were able to drive him into Ahtohallan's trap.”

She paused for a moment. “Ryder, Indu, please step forward and show yourselves. And you too, Elsa, please.”

As everyone stepped beside Yelana in amazement, she smiled and raised her voice.

“Please now honor our liberators, all of whom stand beside me!”

It took only seconds for applause to erupt, many in the hall clapping their hands, and all who had a battle staff with them stamping it rhythmically on the floor. A little later, the first ones sang a joik of honor, testifying to their great gratitude. Yelana also stomped her short birch staff on the ground and sang along loudly.

It went on like this for minutes, and many a tear and a grateful smile appeared on the faces of the honorees. Anna had gone to one of the upper steps to see everything better and clearly showed pride in her countenance, for Elsa, but also for the two Nattura siblings.

When it was finally over, Yelana asked for a vote on whether Honeymaren was accepted as the new leader at all. The vote was by a show of hands and no hand was seen not to go up.

“Do you accept the election, Honeymaren Nattura?” asked Yelana.

The addressed was moved, but still felt uncertain, especially because a plan was going through her mind since the conversation with Alena. And this one had also become difficult, because now she had a relationship with her beloved Elsa.

Honeymaren was unsettled, so, surprising many, she replied, “I want Alena to look into my future, because I need certainty about a particular thing.”

Silence returned and the noaidi stepped forward. She first looked deeply into Honeymaren's eyes for a few moments before she began beating the drum, walking slowly around her and singing a joik. At some point Alena stopped, closed her eyes still standing upright, and had fallen into a trance. The joik and drum fell silent for seconds.

“I see Honeymaren. Very clearly, as if from far away. She will go on a long journey. I see her moving with the great herds of reindeer, in ice and snow, and I see a journey of experiences and discoveries. She is finding herself, learning new skills, and meeting lots of people of the People of the Sun who speak many languages. In the process, she travels far up into the cold north, to where the reindeer migrate each year. This journey will take a whole year and when she returns down to the summer camp with the great herds of reindeer, she will be a new person and ready to become the new leader of the Northuldra. She will usher in a new era and take the first step into a new future.”

Minutes later, Alena opened her eyes again, lowered her drum and looked at Honeymaren in surprise. Then she spoke to Yelana and everyone else present.

“And it will begin with me, for she will accompany me to the great reindeer camp on the plateau, along with the captured Northmen and some Northuldra who will follow her willingly.”

She paused for a moment and turned to the young Northuldra, “I am surprised myself by what I saw, Honeymaren, but there can be no doubt. It is true, and I believe you have already toyed with the idea of accompanying me, haven't you?”

Honeymaren nodded sadly, for she had to think of the great love she had to leave behind for this journey. “Yes, it is so and I was very unsettled. But now you have seen it and through you I know which way to go … for all of us.”

~~~

---

Tagging: @true--north @annaofthenorthernlights @dronning-formynder05

#frozen #frozen2 #frozen3 #fanfic #epic novel #the broken bridge #chapter 73 #bigfrozenfan #elsamaren

10 notes · View notes

bigfrozenfan-fanfics · 3 months

Text

If you can't remember the plot anymore you may want to read the two previous chapters.

A wintry adventure - part I A wintry adventure - part II

The next morning, most of them stayed in bed and pulled the warm blanket a little tighter around them because it had gotten a little colder in the room during the night.

Anna and Kristoff cuddled up to each other when they both woke up with sleepy eyes.

“Good morning, love,” he said and kissed her on her tousled mop of hair.

“Morning, darling,” she said and yawned. “Am I mistaken or why has it suddenly got colder here in the house?” she asked, blinking as bright daylight was already filtering through the window

“It's the gas heating, it's on low at night. But the timer should come on any minute,” he said with a quick sideways glance at the alarm clock on the bedside table, “then it'll get warmer soon. Shall we get up already? I'll make a fire in the fireplace downstairs and you can take a shower in the bathroom down the corridor to the right.”

Anna nodded, “Sounds like a good plan. You go ahead, I'll probably need a bit longer in the bathroom.”

A little later, it was cosy and warm downstairs in the living room, the fire was roaring and the sun's rays were streaming in through the window to the right of the entrance, illuminating the kitchen where Kristoff was preparing a pot of coffee. Upstairs he could still hear the shower running and wondered why he hadn't teased Anna with a morning shower together. After all, they had slept completely naked next to each other under a bedspread.

He set the breakfast table without haste and then took a look outside the front door. It promised to be a wonderful winter's day and the snowfall that had started last night had finally stopped. He took another look at the thermometer next to the front door and the temperature had dropped sharply again, which was good because that meant that no more snow would fall. He stomped his shoes before returning inside and then immediately checked the internet connection. Unfortunately, the reception was still interrupted, so he couldn't check the weather forecast on his laptop. It'll be fine for the next surprise near Banff; he thought and hoped that the forest path would be cleared soon.

He shrugged his shoulders and heard a loud knock on the bathroom door upstairs, followed shortly afterwards by Honeymaren's indignant voice.

“Hey, don't take so long in there and leave me some hot water, will you?”

Kristoff had to grin because, despite all his preparations, he hadn't thought of this kind of problem. There was only one bathroom in the house and now he realised that this could lead to waiting times for a total of five people. Well, they'll manage, after all, it had worked out the days before; he mused and poured himself a coffee after sitting down.

Meanwhile, Ryder came trudging down the stairs and looked at him out of small pupils after dropping onto the sofa.

“You look pretty groggy, Ryder. Had a bit too much to drink last night?”

“Hmm…,” he grumbled and ran a hand over his face before pouring himself some coffee. “It's not just me, Kristoff. You and Anna were the first to go upstairs, the others were still enjoying the wine and the rest of the gin for a while.”

“So so …,” Kristoff grinned back and shook his head reprovingly.

One by one, everyone else came downstairs, some with faces that spoke volumes. With the exception of him and Anna, the others probably needed a little more time to sober up properly, so the breakfast together passed almost silently, with hardly anyone speaking and concentrating instead on the food in front of them. He and Anna exchanged mischievous glances.

They had both drunk quite a lot yesterday and the party went on until well after midnight, but the rest of the gang obviously couldn't stop, as the empty bottles on the kitchen floor testified. Their laughter yesterday could be heard all the way upstairs until Anna and he fell asleep at some point. The wall clock showed him half past eleven, so the others couldn't have got much sleep.

He had actually worked out a relatively tight schedule for their adventures, but looking at the faces around him now, no one here seemed to be in much of a mood for it, except Anna, perhaps. Ryder was now lying on the sofa and had fallen asleep again, snoring lightly, while Honeymaren had also dozed off in the armchair. Elsa, on the other hand, was playing something on her smartphone, but also looked rather listless and tired.

Perhaps he should swap the two days and bring the lazy day forward to today. The forest path was still completely covered in snow and it would take a lot of effort to get out of here. Not a good idea.

He cleared the table with Anna and quietly asked Elsa if she wanted more coffee, but she declined with a shake of her head and a quiet 'No, thank you'. Then he washed the dishes and Anna helped him dry them. She kept casting slightly disappointed glances at the loungers in the living room, who were still drunk.

“There's probably nothing to do with them today,” she muttered quietly.

Kristoff followed her gaze and sighed, “Yes, unfortunately. But that doesn't matter, because we can only make our way to my next surprise tomorrow anyway. It's closed today.”

“But tomorrow is the second public holiday, will they, whoever, even be open then?”

“Just not today, they'll be back to normal tomorrow. But the weather has put a spanner in the works anyway. We can't get away at the moment, unless the snow clearing service comes.”

“I hope so, because you've gone to so much trouble with everything and prepared everything perfectly for us. It would be a shame if your plan didn't work out because of all the snow, even though nothing can replace this wonderful winter atmosphere. I just love it here with you,” she replied and gave him a satisfied peck on the cheek.

“Then I guess we'll just have to wait it out and pass the time in another way,” he smiled at her and returned the kiss.

”Hmm … do you have more games in the house than the one from last time?”

“Unfortunately not, I live here all by myself and apart from a few dice somewhere, there's nothing like that in the house. Maybe I should have thought of that beforehand and got something for us.”

Anna put an arm around him, still holding the dishtowel in her hand, and gave him another kiss on the cheek, “Poor Kristoff. But maybe we could play charades later.”

“If the others wake up and feel like it, I'd love to.”

~~~

By late afternoon, the other three were reasonably fit again and, after a hot shower and a few more cups of coffee, their spirits were revitalised. In the meantime, Kristoff and Anna had pulled a book off the shelf, read it and listened to the others' emerging conversations.

Sven came running up and put his head on Kristoff's lap, which prompted his master to look past the book at him. Sven licked his muzzle and blinked at Kristoff.

“You're hungry again, aren't you?” he asked. “You only had a full bowl this morning,” he added reprovingly and Sven made a begging sound.

Kristoff sighed, stood up and dropped his book on the armchair to get some of those tasty little dog bones for Sven.

“So?” Elsa asked as she stepped back from the window. “What are your next plans, Kristoff?”

“I already told Anna this morning. We can't get out of here until we've been evicted. We can't go dancing tonight either, it's far too much effort to get to Banff and it's already too late for the long journey there,” he said as he stood at the table and then rummaged a treat or two out of the bag, which he threw to Sven to catch.

“If you had a sauna, I'd take this golden opportunity to cool off by jumping naked into the cold, deep snow,” Ryder laughed, both arms resting casually on the back of the sofa.

Everyone looked at him, puzzled, except Kristoff, who was seriously pondering the idea.

“Hmm, I'd never thought of that before, but it's a great idea, Ryder. I'll have to enquire next year and see where there's room for it in the house.”

“From that point of view, it would indeed be a great idea, but without the jump,” Elsa laughed on her way back to the table and sat down again.

“Or just chilling in a hot spring in this beautiful landscape, with a good glass of red wine and a clear view of the mountains and all that,” Honeymaren enthused, leaning her head on her bent arms and gazing dreamily at the wooden ceiling. “That would be great.”

Kristoff wondered if he had inadvertently mentioned something, but then shook the thought from his mind. It was exactly what he had planned for tomorrow's schedule.

“What do you say we round off the evening with a bit of charades?” Anna asked.

“Like in the film? With a girls' and boys' round?” Ryder countered and then laughed out loud, “Except that your Sven isn't the film Sven, Kristoff, and rings the bell when the round is over.” Everyone joined in with his infectious laughter.

“We'll manage,” Anna said, “unless you've been training your golden retriever.” She blinked at Kristoff, who smiled and shook his head in the negative.

After Kristoff had fetched pieces of paper and pencils from a drawer and a small basket from the kitchen, the game could begin. A smartphone with a stopwatch served as a bell to signal the end of each round. Everyone thought of something related to what they had experienced over the past few days and then threw the crumpled up piece of paper into the basket.

It was hilarious how everyone bent over backwards to perform the difficult tasks. In the end, there was a tie when Kristoff guessed Anna's account of the wild ride on the snowmobile. It was a funny coincidence that Anna, of all people, had drawn his slip of paper and therefore extremely fitting and easy for Kristoff to guess.

The evening was reasonably long and fun, without any alcoholic drinks, and at the end, after a small dinner, everyone went up to bed satisfied.

~~~

As hoped, in the early hours of the morning, the sound of snow chains on a large clearing vehicle made its way to the house. Kristoff, who was just lighting the fire, went outside to have a look and waved happily and gratefully to the driver before he turned round and drove back to Banff. Sven wanted to go back outside to play in the snow, but Kristoff stopped him just in time.

“Not now, Sven,” he said, patting his golden retriever's side affectionately.

The forest path was finally clear again and nothing stood in the way of the next planned adventures in the van. Kristoff still had a lot on his mind and was delighted that everything could still go according to plan. Honeymaren in particular was likely to be very surprised today after her wish yesterday.

He looked at the clock on the wall and wondered whether he should wake everyone up already. He had awoken quite early this morning, probably because Anna's movement had woken him when she had comfortably laid her arm across his chest and cuddled her head on his shoulder while he slept. Kristoff smiled dreamily and was so glad that he could spend this winter with the gang in his house, especially Anna.

Unlike her film character, the real Anna didn't snore, but her long hair looked just as tousled when she slept. Kristoff gently stroked a few strands of hair from her face and gazed lovingly at her countenance. She smiled and her eyelids twitched back and forth because she was dreaming. He looked at her for a long time and enjoyed the closeness of her naked, warm body at his side. This situation was something completely new for him and he wished that these days with her would never end. What would become of them both when they returned to everyday life, back in the USA?

But he put that thought to one side. What mattered was the here and now, the happy days with her and the others, here in his home country.

When her dream apparently ended, he carefully and gently peeled himself out of Anna's embrace without waking her. Then he got dressed and went quietly downstairs. And now he stood pondering in the living room, ultimately deciding against waking the gang early - after all, they were all here to enjoy their Christmas holidays in a relaxed way, without stress or schedules.

There was still plenty of time until the tenth of January, when the studio work started again. Enough time for completely relaxed winter adventures together, and above all enough time to spend by Anna's side. He loved her so much …

He grabbed his smartphone from the shelf, opened the kitchen cupboards and the fridge with the remaining food and made a shopping list of what they would all need over the next few days. He also checked the dog food for Sven, but there was still enough for him.

He then picked out a few more CDs for the next few journeys, went out to the van and swapped the music he had already listened to for the new selection. With one exception. He left the music that Anna liked so much in the glove compartment.

Back in the living room, he added wood to the fire and played some quiet music before pulling out his laptop and checking his notes for the planned excursions and the opening times at the locations. He made a few important notes on his mobile phone, including some phone numbers related to the excursions. A glance at the taskbar suddenly showed him a stable internet connection, so he finally had access to the net again and could download the weather forecast for the next few days.

He then prepared everything for breakfast and went upstairs to put together a few things for the day from the cupboard in the hallway. He stuffed everything into a rucksack as a precaution, grabbed some fresh clothes and went into the bathroom to take a shower. Out of habit, he never locked the door to the bathroom and just as he was standing under the shower’s warm water, about to grab the soap, two arms wrapped themselves tenderly around his neck from behind.

He was startled at first, but when he turned around, Anna was looking at him, only centimeters away and stark naked. For a moment, they just looked at each other in love while the water ran over her beautiful body and his astonished gaze clearly revealed his admiration for her. Then she kissed him passionately and he pressed her against him. She couldn't help but feel his physical arousal on her body, but she didn't mind, quite the opposite. She ran her hands over his bum and looked deep into his eyes.

“What if someone wants to come in now and sees us both like this?” he asked.

“Don't worry, darling, I've locked the door behind me!”

That took away his fear of being discovered and they began to unabashedly exchange caresses while the shower roared. They explored each other's bodies, passionately and wildly. Until there was a loud knock.

“We're almost done,” Kristoff called out loudly when he was able to catch his breath after a long kiss.

The loud giggling of Honeymaren behind the closed bathroom door, clearly audible despite the noisy shower, brought them both abruptly back to reality.

“Oh, oh…,” was all Anna said and Kristoff turned pale, if you could have seen it under the warm jet of water.

But then he shrugged his shoulders. “Too late … whatever.” They both laughed at the embarrassing incident and finally washed each other in a hurry. After drying off, quickly blow-drying their hair and getting dressed, they looked at each other tensely for a moment and he finally opened the door.

Honeymaren stood outside grinning broadly and let them pass, giggling. She then went into the bathroom herself and locked the door audibly behind her. Loud laughter could be heard behind it.

Downstairs, Elsa and Ryder were already sitting with their first cup of coffee and grinning at them. Kristoff rolled his eyes and Anna, looking embarrassed, brushed a strand of hair behind her ear.

“Not a word, do you hear?” Kristoff stated and escorted Anna to the table, not without adjusting her chair, which made the other two grin even bigger. Elsa had to hold a hand over her mouth as their amused glances swapped back and forth between them.

They all began to eat breakfast thoughtfully and at some point Honeymaren came down the stairs, still grinning ear to ear, walked round the table and dropped into her armchair. Her glances at Anna and Kristoff spoke volumes and just as she opened her mouth to make a comment, Elsa put her index finger unmistakably to her lips, which Honeymaren couldn't help but notice and therefore closed it again with an understanding nod. Nevertheless, she couldn't completely suppress her grin.

No one said a word at breakfast until Kristoff, having swallowed the last mouthful, was the first to do so.

“Sooo … today may be the second Christmas Day, but not everything is closed today and we can make our way to a hot spa spring later and even drive there again in the van. The forest path has been cleared this morning. So pack your swimsuits and we can all relax later in the mineral-rich water with a great view of the Canadian Rockies. Afterwards we could have a nice meal and go dancing in the evening in the disco I mentioned earlier, with cool music and a nice atmosphere. What do you think?”

“Go swimming?” Ryder interjected in surprise, “But I didn't pack any swimming gear, what with it being the middle of winter and all…”

“That's no problem, Ryder, I can lend you one of my swimming trunks and sandals too,” Kristoff reassured him

“And you think that would suit me? You're much taller than me,” he countered.

“Men!” Elsa realised.

“Well, I've packed my swimsuit,” Anna confirmed and Honeymaren added, looking at her and Elsa, “A winter holiday without a spa isn't a proper winter holiday for us girls, am I right?”

They both nodded and Kristoff mentioned a tourist shop next to the café where Ryder was sure to find a suitable pair of swimming trunks.

“Otherwise, just take a normal pair of dark pants or something,” he added and Ryder rolled his eyes.

It was agreed and an hour later they all got into the van on the way to Banff. There, Kristoff turned south onto Mountain Avenue and drove another ten minutes to Sulphur Mountain and up to the Upper Hot Springs complex. The first thing they did was visit the shop above the large, steaming pool and Ryder found what he was looking for. Apparently there were often tourists with the same problem. Afterwards, they all changed in the shower area provided and stepped out onto the wide poolside.

Many people were already in the water, sitting comfortably on the long, tiled bench below the waterline or swimming around. Behind the glassed-in fence rose tall, snow-covered trees, with the jagged peaks of Mt Rundle and the Cascade Mountains looming beyond. It was a breathtaking and almost magical sight, which they took in for a few moments before climbing into the hot water and chilling out. Honeymaren simply enjoyed sitting here in the hot, naturally heated water with this magnificent view, but without the glass of red wine from her imagination. Well, you couldn't have everything; she thought, and this was definitely something different from the bathtub at home.

An hour and a half later, after the shower, they sat together cosily and deeply relaxed over a coffee above the spring.

“I wonder what else you have planned for us,” Elsa asked Kristoff.

He grinned mysteriously. “Let's put it this way, we're going up high and then a special kind of speed will take your breath away. I promise!”

“Oh, man. That sounds really exciting and I honestly can't wait,” Ryder replied and the others leant forward curiously.

“Don't keep us in suspense like that, Kristoff,” Elsa asked.

“So I'll take anything that comes along. Everything just keeps getting better and better,” said Honeymaren enthusiastically.

“I like to be surprised by Kristoff. Nothing has disappointed me so far,” Anna added with a smile and placed a hand on his forearm, sitting right next to him.

“I don't know how hungry you are, but I've booked us a table at Chuck's Steakhouse for tonight. They have the best steaks around Banff, with Alberta-bred Wagyu beef grilled ranch-style over hardwood and mesquite. And to start the disco evening, there are some really tasty cocktails on top. It's not cheap, but it's worth it.”

“You're not planning to invite us there at your expense, are you?” Anna objected, slowly beginning to understand what made Kristoff tick.

He shook his head, “Not today, but tomorrow, because I want everyone to come along too. It's really not an everyday thing and it's worth it to me a thousand times over. We've all made good money from the films, right? So please don't worry about that, okay? Having you all here together, in my home country, in my house and having the time and great adventures with you is just too important to me. I … am just so grateful.” A small tear stole into his eye and the next moment everyone stood up, did as Anna did and hugged him tightly.

“It's us who are eternally grateful to you, Kristoff,” Elsa said softly.

“The best Christmas holidays ever!” said Honeymaren and Ryder added “I couldn't have said it better”.

“And you already know what I'm thinking, but I'd rather not say it out loud here,” Anna whispered in his ear and he gave her a kiss on the cheek.

~~~

When they were back in the van and driving back to Banff, Kristoff suddenly turned off onto Cave Avenue and headed west. After a few minutes he stopped in front of a strange building with two low towers.

“Where are we?” Elsa asked as everyone got out.

“We're here at a historical site with a cave below us, mineral springs and some kind of a museum. I thought that since we still have a lot of time before tonight, I'd take you here. I think you'll be particularly interested, Ryder.”

None of them objected to his surprise, entered the long building and booked the half-hour cave and basics tour. They learnt that this place had been a special place for the indigenous peoples of Canada for over ten thousand years and was the site of the founding of the very first national park. It was a fun and educational couple of hours on the grounds and in the exhibit hall before heading to their final destination in Banff, the steakhouse.

Nevertheless, they still had plenty of time left and strolled through the small town.

“There aren't many people out and about,” said Anna, who had hooked up with him and was enjoying his company.

“Many are visiting their relatives at this time of year. Only the tourists have stayed here, like us,” he said.

“I don't really feel like a tourist any more, but almost …”

“… like home?” They stopped and looked deep into each other's eyes.

“Yes, almost,” she breathed.

“What does it look like? When have you booked the table for? I'm getting hungry,” Ryder said, interrupting their togetherness.

They both sighed and Honeymaren beside Ryder poked him in the side reprovingly. Elsa had put on a thoughtful face as she looked at the two lovers.

“Okay, let's go eat,” Kristoff said. “Follow me, it's round the corner there.”

They got the table a little ahead of schedule because it wasn't so busy and he hadn't promised too much. Both the quality of the steaks and the atmosphere in the restaurant were extremely good. Afterwards, they treated themselves to a few delicious cocktails and tried to elicit his surprise for tomorrow. But Kristoff refused to budge and said that it wouldn't be a surprise if he revealed everything beforehand.

But the evening that followed turned out differently than expected. After paying the entrance fee at Dancing Sasquatch and getting a stamp on their hand, they were greeted by a cramped and crowded disco with music from the DJs on the podium that didn't really suit their taste. There was no real dancing to be had and the overpriced drinks came from cheap paper cups, didn't taste particularly amazing and the staff were also rather stroppy.

Around midnight, the establishment’s emblem appeared in the form of a guy disguised in a fur coat, jumping around wildly and reminding everyone in the gang of Big Foot. They were bumped into often enough by the young, drunken crowd and finally had enough of it all.

Outside on the street, they could still see one of the disco's bouncers not exactly gently pushing someone out.

“Tell me, have you ever been in there yourself, Kristoff?” asked Anna with a bright red face and Elsa immediately agreed. The other two gasped and took a deep breath.

“Sorry, guys, that wasn't my intention. They used to have quite a good reputation and no, I haven't been there myself yet. There aren't that many nightclubs like this any more, two have closed down in the last few years. The only other place I can think of is the Hoodoo Night Club and Lounge not far from here. Some say it's the best place for hip-hop, others say they mainly play Top 40s. I don't know.”

“Well, I think I've lost my appetite for dancing,” Elsa said and the rest of the gang agreed with her.

“Let's go home, Kristoff,” Anna said and he nodded disappointedly.

They were back in the hut by two o'clock in the morning and went upstairs to bed shortly afterwards.

~~~

The following day started relaxed and Kristoff had the impression that everyone had already forgotten about last night. He had mulled it over for a long time and apologised to Anna for the night, but she held no grudges and snuggled up close to him instead.

After breakfast, following his advice, they bundled up in warm winter clothes and got into the van. He dropped Sven off at the neighbour's, as they would be away from home for a few days this time.

“How far are we traveling? It looks like you're planning something longer with us,” asked Anna, inserting one of the exchanged CDs labelled 'Road Trip' into the drive. Shortly afterwards, 'I'm blue with lyrics' by Eiffel 65 played from the speakers and the rest of the gang in the back seat bobbed their heads to the rhythm of the song.

“Let yourself be surprised, Anna, I've prepared it better this time,” Kristoff called out to her, “Everyone will get their money's worth in the coming days and have a lot of fun. But I won't tell you nothing more.”

A road sign on the Trans-Canada Highway read 'Canmore 25km' and it took Kristoff just under half an hour to turn onto the Bow Valley Trail, coming to a halt in a car park shortly afterwards. Everyone looked curiously out of the window and when they realised where they were, they held their breath.

“You're not serious, are you?” asked Honeymaren as she read the sign.

ALPINE HELICOPTERS INC. < Commercial Operations Sightseeing Tours >

“Oh … my … God!” Elsa exclaimed and Ryder simply couldn't find the words.

Kristoff looked over at Anna and she just stared at him, with a mixture of great anticipation and equal parts fear of what was about to follow.

“You're surprised now, aren't you? Are you scared?” he asked towards the back, grinning broadly. “Don't worry, it's going to be great fun and I told you it wouldn't be anything ordinary. Just follow me and take only the mobile phones with you.”

They followed Kristoff up a few flights of stairs to a wooden building and inside he signed in with proof of his reservation. Then they could go outside onto the airfield. Five helicopters in red, white and black stripes stood on it, four of them next to a petrol pump, behind which was a large circle marked as a landing pad.

Kristoff walked ahead to parking space number 4 and motioned for the others to follow him. Everyone's legs were shaking as they made their way towards one of the waiting helicopters. The rotors were not yet running, which eased everyone's anxiety. The pilot greeted everyone in turn and helped them board. There were a total of five besides the pilot's seats, three at the back and two directly opposite. Kristoff let everyone go first and got in last.

When they were all seated and strapped in, they were told to take the headphones from above the seats and put them on because it was going to be very loud and he could use them to talk about the area they were about to fly over. They would also be able to talk to each other via the intercom system and ask him questions. He reassured everyone that there was no need to be afraid and wished them all an exciting adventure before closing the door and getting in the front himself.

The cockpit was crammed with display instruments and a small touchscreen above, which the pilot now operated and which now displayed the route. Below and in front of his feet, one could look down through viewing windows and the all-round view at the seats offered plenty of opportunities to take pictures of the surroundings, quite unlike in an aeroplane.

Kristoff sat next to Anna in the two front seats facing in the opposite direction to the flight. Elsa briefly lifted the headphones from her ears and asked him a question. The others did the same to hear everything.

“What is our destination and how long is the flight?”

“We're flying to the Three Sisters, the pilot will explain more. Flight time there and back is about half an hour.” Then he pulled the earpieces back over his ears as the aircraft started up and the rotors began to turn faster and faster. It became increasingly noisy in the cabin and it was another minute or two before they lifted off gently, drifted backwards away from the landing pad, turned and then climbed higher and higher.

Everyone pulled out their smartphones and started taking photos of the majestic, snow-covered landscape below and beside them. In the headphones, the pilot explained to them where they were and also the history of the three mountain peaks called the Three Sisters, formerly known as the Three Nuns. Faith, hope and charity, or big, middle and little sister with summit heights between 2700 and almost 3000 meters. In summer, when flying past, you could sometimes even see a few mountaineers on the Big Sister. The view was breathtaking and the pilot flew a loop so that everything was clearly visible before continuing over the Spray Lakes and then along the Bow River.

“So, how was it for you?” Kristoff asked through the intercom system.

“A bit like riding a rollercoaster, but smoother,” said Elsa.

“Just great,” said Honeymaren, “Sheer madness, but really loud,” said Ryder.

“And you?” Kristoff took Anna's hand in his and she looked over at him.

“I love you.”

“I think you're about to love me even more, because instead of booking a bigger tour, I've upgraded to Kananaskis Country for the next big surprise.”

~~~

Twenty-five minutes flight time later and along the Bow River Trail, they landed in Kananaskis Country at Snowy Owl Sled Dog Tours in the middle of the wilderness. But no one knew that yet, but they wondered why they hadn't flown back and instead landed here in the woods in the middle of a large snowfield.

Kristoff would probably never forget the look of surprise on their faces when they got out of the helicopter with the help of the pilot with the rotors still running and he shouted at them to stay crouched while walking away. It was hellishly loud. Then they watched as it took off again and flew away.

Kristoff told them to follow him to the next big surprise and they walked a short distance in the snow until they came across a snow-covered forest path behind the trees, with a whole bunch of sledges waiting with barking huskies harnessed to them. Everyone's jaw dropped as they realised what was about to happen.

“I thought, if you like Sven, you'll love the Siberian huskies here,” Kristoff said with a grin to Anna, who promptly threw her arms around his neck.

He didn't want to think about the fact that he had spent well over three thousand three hundred Canadian dollars on the whole adventure for everyone so far. The surprised faces of the gang around him were simply priceless. Now it just depended on who wanted to be the sledge driver. That would make up quite a lot for the additional costs, he calculated.

They were given a comprehensive briefing on how to behave when driving a six-strong dog team and asked who was confident enough to do it themselves. One of the instructors would lead the trek with his own team and keep an eye on them at all times, giving them helpful advice as they travelled and monitoring their progress. He assured them that the dogs had been trained beforehand and had passed a series of tests of self-driven sleds.

Kristoff had already made up his mind and would ride with Anna in the princess seat in front of him, the rest were still discussing who dared and who did not. In the end, Ryder had made up his mind and would have Honeymaren on the sleigh. Elsa was the last one left, with one of the instructors as sledge driver. There were also other tourists and adventurers, so the ten-kilometer trek would be longer and take two hours in total.

Then they got on the sledges. The last team had a few canisters of water for the huskies instead of a passenger, because of the exertion and to prevent dehydration, as they were told. The six huskies in front of each sled were excited and barked in anticipation of the fast ride through the winter landscape. The gang learnt that everyone, dogs and instructors and carers alike, lived together in a large family and had raised the huskies since childhood.

After everyone was wrapped up under a tarpaulin to protect them from the wind, the sledges jerked off to the sound of loud barking. They travelled at high speed on prepared tracks through passing forests and lonely snowy landscapes. There were plenty of opportunities for photo shoots at short checkpoints along the way and the gang took full advantage of these opportunities.

The sled guides kept shouting 'Easy, easy' to the huskies in front and after a short rest for the huskies on Goat Pond, a large frozen lake with the majestic Rockies and the peaks of the Three Sisters in the background, they continued across Canada's wilderness.

At the end, they were back near the starting point where a campfire was already burning and snacks and hot cider were waiting for them. Everyone in the gang felt pretty exhausted after this wonderful but also very strenuous ride. This half-hour break and the opportunity to chat by the crackling fire was just what they needed.

“Olaf will bite himself in the arse as soon as he hears about our great adventures,” Ryder said with a laugh and the others joined in.

“It was just incredible and so marvellous,” Honeymaren remarked rapturously, looking at him, “You were pretty good as a sledge driver, really now.” He nodded gratefully and smiled proudly.

“I'll never forget today and I'll keep the photos on my mobile phone to show everyone,” Elsa said. “Thank you, Kristoff, for the best surprise of my life!”

Anna, who was lying in Kristoff's arms, looked up at him with her eyebrows furrowed and said loudly, “I can't find the words for today's incredible adventure, but honestly, you said we shouldn't worry about the cost. Now please don't tell me you got it all for a bargain price. I want a share of it.”

Kristoff waved it off, “Please don't worry about it, Anna, and because we drove two sledges ourselves, it actually saved quite a bit.”

“No, no. Anna is absolutely right, Kristoff. You can't stop us from participating. Am I right, Honeymaren and Ryder?” Elsa argued vehemently and the two nodded vigorously.

“Look at it this way, this whole amount divided by five can't make that much difference, can it? Tell me, how much did this fun cost you?” commented Honeymaren.

Kristoff fumbled around and didn't want to come out with it at first.

Ryder stood up and announced, “It's a matter of honour and we're all pulling together here! So tell me…”

Kristoff sighed and finally said the amount. This earned him open mouths and looks of disbelief. The gang was visibly shocked.

Anna jerked up. “You're crazy to want to pay for all this yourself! That's out of the question!”

“No way!” - “Well, you're outvoted, Kristoff.” - “So what!” said the others almost simultaneously.

“I'll think about it, I promise,” he finally said, “but it's about time, the bus is waiting for us.”

As everyone stood up, Anna whispered to him, “I'd advise you to do just that, dear.” Then she laughed softly.

“Where are we going next? On the bus to the next adventure?” joked Ryder.

“The bus will only drop us off at my van on the way back to Canmore and then we'll go to Lake Louise. We can stay at the Lake Louise Inn in the village for a few days for very reasonable prices and plan our tours from there. It's only a 3-star hotel but with good facilities. Just let yourself be surprised, there are lots of options in the immediate vicinity and we also have our car with us for excursions further afield. So in that sense, Ryder, it's definitely time for the next adventures,” Kristoff explained and laughed.

“Off to the adventures then!” shouted Anna, cheerfully joining him.

~~~

To be continued … —

Remark: I hope you have enjoyed my second kristanna story! Please leave a comment if you liked it, I would be pleased to read your opinions, even criticisms.

Tagging: @karma26 @chileanon @igotelsapregnanthelp @true--north @annaofthenorthernlights @the-fifth-spirit-elsa

#frozen au #modern frozen #fanfic #christmas story #a wintry adventure #part 3 #bigfrozenfan

11 notes · View notes

bigfrozenfan-fanfics · 4 months

Text

Chapter 72 - Halvard's final honour 🔞

Links: Chapter overview, Character list, Map, Glossar Rating: M over all Publishing cycle: around every 2-3 weeks

A chilly wind in Arendelle's capital was blowing around the noses of the citizens and was the first harbinger of the approaching winter. It had been an unusually long golden autumn with lots of sunshine and mild temperatures, it was now high time for many to provide firewood and spend the last few days enjoying nature before everything disappeared under a cold, white blanket of snow.

Anna and Elsa had agreed to accompany Yelana and the other Northuldra home last night. They told Mari that morning that they would visit Vesterland's royal house on their way back and wished her and Ambassador Mitya a safe journey home.

Elsa had the brilliant idea of sailing with the new ship instead of riding. Anna immediately agreed and told her sister that it would certainly be much easier for her to think of a new name for the confiscated vessel this way.

Yelana was thrilled when she heard about it, because she found Arendelle's ships fascinating and had long wished to travel on them one day. That way, everyone would arrive at the Northuldra camp much earlier and there would also be a way to transport men and equipment, including prisoners back to Arendelle and the naval base, Elsa told her.

However, not all Northuldra would travel by ship, this was especially true for the merchants whose camp was in the northern forest, not far from the capital. They would also take Yelana's reindeer with them. Indu, too, who did not fare particularly well on the last ship voyage, decided instead to accompany the others on his reindeer by land and then leave for the far north in a few days to join his family.

Anna had also agreed the night before to Yelana's unusual request to show the castle's stable boy the forest where she and her people lived. She had promised him and his reaction had made her smile. The boy had shown genuine interest and also a knack for reindeer. Yelana immediately made her way to the stables, also to check on her reindeer.

“Hey, stable boy, do you still remember me and my promise!” called Yelana as soon as she was standing inside.

The boy turned in surprise and peeked around the corner of one of the horse stalls to see who was calling out to him. As soon as he recognised Yelana he called back.

“Lady, you bet I remember! But please don't joke, because you must know that my work here is extremely important to me!”

“Come out, for I have asked your queen's permission! You will accompany me to the Northuldra region, as promised by me, and then you will see what has always interested you.”

“Are you really serious, Lady?” he asked back, uncertain.

“I'm dead serious, lad. So get ready, because we will set sail together with the queen and her sister in about an hour!”

~~~

youtube

It was hard to say who was more impressed by the ship's voyage, Yelana, a more than true Northuldra, or a perhaps sixteen-year-old stable boy who was leaving Arendelle for the first time, and on a ship of the royal fleet at that!

Both stood at the bow and let the wind blow around their ears. Neither spoke a word for a long time, but the royal siblings smirked at the two as they strolled across the deck, inspecting the new ship.

“Do you think I could start a new future as a ship's boy?” he asked Yelana excitedly at one point.

“Who knows,” she replied, “but I think you'd better stay a stable boy, because you're very good and loving with the animals, especially reindeer. Not everyone is cut out for it, but you certainly are, believe me.”

He looked at her thoughtfully and then nodded slowly, “Perhaps you are right, Lady Yelana. Animals have always been a part of my life, even when I was very small. Somehow I understand their needs and know when they are well or when they need something, and the horses in the stable like me, I can feel that. On the other hand, Arendelle's big ships fascinate me and make me dream of far away adventures.”

“Well then, you're experiencing one right now,” Yelana replied with a smile, “and you'll certainly be thrilled by our life in the great forest. And I can feel that, you know.”

He smiled broadly, clung excitedly to the bow rail, closed his eyes and breathed in deeply the fresh wind that blew around his nose and brought the distant adventure he had always dreamed of.

~~~

“It is fast, the ship, and in excellent condition. Our people have done a good job in getting everything ready, don't you think, sis?”

“Yes, I like it too, and it just flies over the water, all without Nokk and Gale,” Elsa replied, and they both had to laugh at their comparison. “Have you thought of a new name yet? Jarls Pride is kind of inappropriate, I think, and it still reminds me too much of Thord.”

“Not yet, but I'm sure I'll have found one by the time we return. By the way, as for Thord the usurper and the current ship name, I was thinking the same thing as you. I hope we never see him again, though I'd love to give him a taste of my fist.”

Elsa shook her head in amusement and chuckled softly, “You've had that before with your ex. Be glad you don't have to face Thord again! But now, enough of this tiresome topic, let's go and see how our Northuldra friends are doing instead.”

“You're right, I'm sure they'll be wondering why we haven't joined them.”

The sisters made their way to the quarterdeck and as they climbed the short flight of steps they saw everyone sitting good-humouredly on the deck planks or standing at the rail, a new flag with the crocus, the symbol of the House of Arendelle waving in the breeze between them. Anna briefly looked up behind her and there, with great satisfaction, she made out a large, long flag with the same symbol on the main mast. She smiled, for this was now her and Elsa's ship. Their very own!

And who knows, maybe next year they would both go on a long and beautiful voyage together to friends in other kingdoms, in fine weather and a summer breeze, not as chilly as it was at the moment. How about calling the gaff sailer the 'Voyager'? Anna smiled up to her ears as she imagined it all in her mind.

“Well, how are you?” asked Elsa of the others, snapping Anna out of her daydream. “You are certainly looking forward to returning home with your friends in a little while, am I right?”

“Yes, you are absolutely right, Your Highness, what me and Ryder are looking forward to the most is seeing Honeymaren again. I miss her so much,” Linnea said and stood up.

Ryder stood with his back casually leaning against the railing and nodded happily. “I had seen her at least briefly when I was there with the soldiers … and well, at our joint fight with Kolgrimr of course. I'm so proud of her and I'm sure we'll have a lot to talk about in the days and weeks to come. I'm really looking forward to it.”

“I'm mostly looking forward to my forest and being able to gather herbs again,” Myrtha said, “Besides, I'm sure our people have missed a good healer … without wanting to praise myself, of course,” she laughed. “I miss everyone very much.”

“And I can finally ask Ikka's parents for her hand in marriage. Then next year we plan to get married, after I have put myself in her parents’ service. Because that's the custom with us … not just the proposal ceremony with butterflies and reindeer, the way Ryder helped Kristoff in his proposal,” Joná grinned and, sitting up, put an arm around his beloved, who leaned her head against his shoulder with a smile as she nodded in acknowledgement.

"But then instead of Anna, Yelana suddenly appeared and you should have seen Kristoff's surprised face," Ryder smirked and everyone laughed, even Anna.

"I didn't know that," she said. "He'll have to tell me more about that when he gets a chance. It's a pity I didn't see that … I mean, of course, the butterflies and all that. But anyway, we are happy for you, for all of you," she said. "By the way, do you know anything about what Yelana wants to show us and why we should definitely come along?” she added, but only received a shrug of the shoulders in reply. Myrtha did not respond at all, but looked out over the fjord.

Anna somehow had the impression that Myrtha knew all about it but didn't want to say anything. But no matter, Elsa and she would find out before evening, so she also shrugged and turned to her sister.

“Come on, let's both go below deck and have a look at the captain's cabin, Elsa. I haven't seen it yet.”

“Me neither, good idea. See you, guys. If you need anything, tell the boatswain down there, the one with the blue cap on his head,” Elsa said and headed for the second exit, closely followed by Anna, who was still smiling and waving to the others behind her.

“'Hey, Elsa, I think I've already come up with a great name for our new ship,” Anna said enthusiastically as they walked down the short hallway towards the cabin.

“Our ship, you say, it almost sounds like you've already reserved it for just the two of us,” Elsa laughed as she opened the door. “And what are you going to call 'our' ship?”

“The Voyager, because we'll both be making a lot of trips in it in the future.”

“So without the ARN designation in front of it? Doesn't sound so bad though, Anna. I like it.”

“Well then, it's a deal! The ARN Voyager it is. It could do with a new coat of paint, though. What do you think of white?”

Elsa looked at her in surprise, pondered for a while and finally nodded with a dreamy smile. “Oh, I can imagine that quite well, it also emphasises the streamlining of the sailer. Good idea, Anna!”

Anna grinned back and then looked around the captain's cabin. All of Thord's private things had been removed, except for the heavy wooden table and three reclining chairs, so they could furnish the room to their liking. Including everything that was still missing, i.e. sea charts, nautical books, instruments and all things for the personal outfit for a land trip on distant shores. The room offered enough space and also a separate working area for the two of them.

Anna was already picturing everything as she walked around, while Elsa stood at the slanted stern windows looking out over the wake and the Arenfjord.

“A few flowers are missing here too, Elsa, maybe crocuses and in the summer some sunflowers too. We could have the walls and all the frames redecorated in the Arendelle castle design. What do you think? I already have everything in mind,” Anna asked, joining her to look out as well.

“I trust your taste, sis. I'm sure it will be nice and cosy.”

~~~

youtube

In the afternoon, Anna had the Voyager anchored on the second beach and three dinghies lowered into the water. First they loaded the food they had brought with them, mainly flour for baking breads and also some fruit, various mushrooms from the area around Arendelle, some lamb and freshly caught crabs from the night before, which Yelana said were hard to find up here in the north. And of course Olina's famous chocolate. That was not to be missed.

Next the Northuldra got into two boats, followed by Anna, Elsa and their bodyguards in the third. The stable boy was all excited as he shimmied down the rope ladder into the second boat and sat down right next to Yelana.

They had not been travelling for five minutes when they were spotted by two Northuldra fishermen who were unloading the catch from their boats. One of them was gesticulating wildly and shouting something at the other, but they couldn't understand it because of the distance. But that wasn't necessary, because the second fisherman was already running towards the camp. So their little surprise would no longer be a surprise, because very soon everyone there knew who had just arrived.

Shortly afterwards, the dinghies pulled onto the sandy beach with a slight crunching sound. The first to disembark were all the Northuldra. Then followed the royal bodyguards, who together pulled the heavy third boat far up the beach so that their highnesses would not get their feet wet when they disembarked. The fisherman who stayed behind immediately rushed to his people and especially greeted Yelana joyfully and effusively. Anna and Elsa exchanged happy glances.

After that, they all had to walk another half hour before they came around the bend and saw the camp in front of them. Actually, they heard it already before they caught sight of the first Northuldra there. Almost everyone there was already shouting excitedly, loudly spreading the happy news and many were already running towards them to greet them.

The sisters watched excitedly as all their Northuldra friends were welcomed as joyfully as if they had been away for years. All of them did not advance one step further because the hugs and greetings just would not end. It was loud and many tears of joy flowed on both sides.

And then Honeymaren came towards them smiling broadly and with her head proudly raised. As soon as she was spotted, everyone formed an alley for her, for the long-awaited family reunion.

Linnea just stood there staring towards her for a little while, looking her over from head to toe, before finally spreading her arms wide for her daughter with tears in her eyes. Honeymaren ran the last few meters towards her and fell into her mother's arms. Everyone around them clapped and some of them even sang a joik.

Elsa watched the reunion closely and it was undeniable that Honeymaren had somehow changed since the last time. Elsa couldn't put her finger on what it was, but the young woman seemed more mature to her and, above all, her first glance was not at her but at her people, especially her mother. Elsa noticed contentment in her clear gaze, but also determination.

When the two broke away from each other again, Honeymaren had time to embrace her brother and also greeted everyone else with heartfelt hugs. She stood a little longer in front of Yelana, then looked questioningly and with a raised eyebrow at the boy standing next to her.

“This is the stable boy from the castle who I promised to show our people and the forest to someday,” Yelana said and the boy bowed to Honeymaren, which made her smile. “But you and I have something very important to talk about, Honeymaren.”

“Of course, Yelana, but I'm sure it can wait. I'm really glad you've finally returned. But tell me, what is actually in the sacks you brought with you?” she said, casting an astonished glance at them.

“Some food and flour for baking.”

“That's nice that you thought of it, but let's all go to the camp for now,” Honeymaren said a little louder, “you must be a very hungry and your return must be celebrated properly. Besides, I have an announcement to make later.”

After she said this and waved ahead, everyone followed her with expectant expressions. Shortly after, everyone sat comfortably around the cooking fires while the women in the camp began to prepare a feast, baking fresh flatbread and asking Anna and Elsa about the method of preparing these strange sea creatures. They gladly gave them information and asked about the whereabouts of General Mattias, Fabian and the other soldiers.

As they were led towards the tent camp, they wondered about the two wooden cages at the edge of the forest that undoubtedly housed the prisoners of the recent battle.

“You got them all, I see,” Elsa said with satisfaction, and Anna showed an expression that was difficult to interpret. She said nothing and avoided looking the prisoners in the eye between the wooden slats. Bad memories sprang up in her and she quickly took Elsa by the elbow.

“Come, let's go quickly to Mattias and Fabian. I can't stand this any longer.”

Elsa looked at her worriedly and then nodded in understanding. “I can understand that, Anna.”

When they arrived at the tent camp, in front of which several cooking fires were also already burning and above one hung the large cooking kettle, in which it was bubbling and spreading a familiar scent, the excitement was great. Word spread quickly among the soldiers that their queen and sister had arrived unexpectedly.

The general and the fencing master blew the tent cover aside when they noticed and hurried out and towards them. Everyone around the sisters bowed deeply to them and saluted appropriately.

“Your Majesty, Your Highness! We were not expecting you, this is really a nice surprise,” Mattias said.

“How is the leg?” Fabian added immediately, turning to Anna with a somewhat worried expression.

“It's all fine, Fabian. Thank you for asking. Hello, General Mattias.”

“So you actually did it and were able to apprehend all the fugitives,” Elsa said, “That's excellent! Then we can take them to the penal camp first thing tomorrow, for we came by ship and it is anchored close by on the upper beach. It's over at last and we'll take you all home.”

“That will make the men happy and me too, for I miss my Halima very much. Is she still at the castle with Elin and are they both well?” asked Mattias, looking from one to the other sister in turn.

“Yes, Mattias, you need not worry at all. She has returned home, though, because she missed her house and the garden,” said Elsa. “But I'm sure we have a lot to talk about and we could talk more back at the camp. There they are preparing a feast in honour of the Northuldra we brought with us. I guess that will last all night.”

“We'd love to, wouldn't we, Fabian?” said the general.

“Unless there's that weird bread with birch bark again,” Fabian said, making a face, “I miss the food from Arendelle and a fragrant fresh loaf of bread from the baker.”

“Fear not, Fabian, for we have brought flour for baking and many other goodies … even chocolate from the castle kitchen!” Anna reassured him and Fabian was already licking his lips.

“Well then, let's go,” Elsa said and Anna added, “But by another way, please.”

~~~

An hour or two later, after everyone in the camp was full and satisfied - there had even been fårikål, an extremely delicious lamb stew, for the guests of honour - the cosy evening began.

The royal sisters had discussed everything with Mattias and Fabian in the presence of Yelana and it was slowly getting dark in the sky when the Nattura family came out of their kota again. Everyone wore their best clothes and the women an elaborately made scarf over it. In addition, they all wore colourful shoelaces, attracting everyone's attention, because every Northuldra immediately knew what this clothing meant. Everyone stood up with serious expressions and partly bowed heads as Honeymaren led them to Anna, Elsa and Yelana.

youtube

“What does this mean,” Anna asked Yelana, who now rose as well.

“This is our traditional mourning attire, Anna. We call these shoelaces voedtege and they are only worn when someone in the family has died,” she whispered back

“Halvard!” breathed Elsa in sudden realisation, and without looking, motioned Anna to stand and pay respects as well. But Anna was already standing and looking sadly at the Natturas.

As the family stopped and Honeymaren turned in a circle to look at everyone, the Northuldra moved closer and formed a large circle around the mourners. Not only to show their deep respect, but also to understand every word that would now presumably follow as a promised announcement.

Alena also joined them now, followed by Árnason with the young stable boy in tow, and nodded knowingly to Honeymaren. The latter nodded back and then raised her voice.

“Only yesterday I was at papa's grave for a few hours, telling him that his family would soon be complete to visit him. Now the time has come, and not only that, for I would like to ask you all to take a day of mourning and join us. I have learned that you have not yet had the opportunity to do so, or that you have been waiting for this moment. I would like us to place reindeer antlers on his grave and honour him with a traditional joik.”

Honeymaren paused for a moment and then asked Alena to join her.

“As probably only the older ones among you remember, we haven't had a noaidi go into a trance session and check in the spiritual plane for decades to see if Halvard's free soul has made it there and is doing well. Since I was born a long time after that, I didn't know about it either until I learned about this meaning from Alena here next to me. She is an experienced noaidi and will help us with this task for the first time in a long time.”

She looked around and then said, “Now please prepare yourselves and accompany us to Halvard's grave.”

The Northuldra dispersed to put on their best clothes, get their birchwood staffs and the large reindeer antler. Yelana excused herself and left the group from Arendelle to go to her old kota.

However, there she found that her belongings, which she had not been able to take with her when she was banished, had been removed when Gyda moved into her hut. At first she was very upset about this and hoped that the things had not been burnt and had been taken to safety by her people in time. And so it was. She took the bare necessities with her and changed in her kota.

Alena and her young companion were of course not prepared for such an event. While she whispered to him that she wanted to quickly fetch her drum, he remained waiting where he was. The boy from Arendelle had become somewhat friend with Árnason, who was about his age, in the last few hours and had told him about the reason for his journey. He was now standing beside him a little uncertainly and was very surprised by this event.

“You are about to experience something very special, Lars” whispered Árnason, “but just stay by my side. Watch and listen, for you will surely not forget this.”

Anna and Elsa, standing a little apart with their escort from Arendelle, waited patiently until all the Northuldra were ready and the procession was about to start. The royal bodyguard did not quite know how to behave and the commander politely and quietly asked his queen.

“Follow us in silence and stay close to us. Just try to behave according to the sad occasion.”

Half an hour later, all the Northuldra gathered in festive dress. Some of them also wore colourful shoelaces and Mattias said quietly to Anna and Elsa that they too had lost relatives during the war, though he did not know if their dead had been buried near Halvard. But as Honeymaren had said, it would be a full day of mourning and surely the following event would be repeated at the gravesites of the fallen tomorrow, he said quietly.

“You have experienced this before, haven't you? While you were locked up here in the forest,” Anna whispered back.

“Not at first, because my men and I kept ourselves separate from the Northuldra for a long time. After all, they were still the enemy in our eyes then. But later we did, after we had all inevitably come to terms, several times even. It is a beautiful ceremony, similar to the one you have experienced here before, when the Northuldra welcomed you as theirs.”

Movement now arose in front and eventually all set off in silence, following the Natturas ahead. The group from Arendelle followed at the end.

And as if summoned, at the same moment some riders on reindeer appeared. They were the merchants returning from Arendelle, together with Indu. They had made it just in time and as soon as they received information about the reason for the event from the nearest person in the vicinity, they hurried off to also equip themselves appropriately for the occasion. Only Indu felt a little lost, but joined them in the end.

~~~

There was hardly any space between the trees around Halvard's grave, but a large circle formed anyway, which many lit with torches. The Northuldra with the reindeer antler laid it gingerly on the grave and then stepped back. Linnea and Ryder knelt before it and now spoke to their father's soul, much as Honeymaren had done before, only a little more quietly. Honeymaren stood silent beside it with her head down and her hands clasped together. Meanwhile, Alena began to beat her drum and sang herself into a trance. All the others remained quiet and in devotion at first.

When the drumming stopped, everyone looked expectantly at the noaidi.

When she opened her eyes again, a small smile appeared and she said, “It's all right. He has found his peace.”

And then the great ceremony began, with both women and men intoning a funeral yoik and singing Halvard's praises. Those who had a fighting stick with them struck their birch woods together in pairs and rhythmically to the chant, in tribute to Halvard as their best Skalastet fighter, thus producing the typical 'clack - clack' when two fight against each other.

Elsa and Anna looked at each other in amazement, for the last time the men had only stomped their fighting sticks rhythmically on the ground. Even touching each other on the shoulder was not the case here, and yet. It was as Mattias said, a beautiful ceremony and the singing expressed affection and honour for Halvard, their friend. At the end, the women raised their heads and sang a little louder and more carrying into the night sky, until the singing slowly died away and absolute silence fell, interrupted only by the faint flickering noise of the torches.

When Linnea and Ryder finally rose, the ceremony was over and one by one everyone went back to camp.

Honeymaren came over to Anna and Elsa, looked around again briefly and then said to them “Thank you both for being there, especially you, Elsa. It meant a lot to me.” Then she nodded, turned away and walked back into camp as well. She walked slowly, keeping her head down while walking.

The sisters looked at each other, puzzled at first, then gazed after her until she was out of sight and disappeared into the shadows of the night.

“I don't know, but it almost sounded like a goodbye somehow,” Anna said quietly and Elsa nodded slowly and very thoughtfully.

~~~

Some kotas had been cleared for the guests from Arendelle to spend the night and lined with plenty of reindeer skins. Two of the royal bodyguards took positions in front of it as the sisters entered to go to sleep. They would take turns with the rest of the guard every four hours. The whole camp was quiet now and many of the fires had already been put out.

When the sisters had undressed and covered themselves inside, they lay quietly next to each other, but thoughtfully with their eyes open. Both of them looked up at the flue, where a small section showed the sky with bright twinkling stars.

At some point it was Anna who quietly wished Elsa good night, turned to the side and closed her eyes. Shortly afterwards, her light snoring could be heard.

Elsa looked over at her, threw the reindeer blanket aside and stood up. She made an automatic gesture with her hand and in this way literally put on her dress in an instant with her ice magic. Then she left the hut and said quietly to the guard that she wanted to be alone and made her way to the Natturas' kota.

She knew where the hut was and stood in front of it in the pale glow of the half moon, undecided. Should she call quietly for Honeymaren or just go in? Elsa didn't know where exactly her sleeping place was, so the chances were three to one of finding it right away.

She decided on the latter and very carefully and quietly opened the flap. Elsa was lucky because the half moon was right behind her in the sky and its light showed Honeymaren's face in the sleeping place just ahead on the left.

youtube

Elsa slipped inside and had Honeymaren's position and how many steps it was to her in her mind's eye as she closed the flap and quietly entered. Elsa felt her way to Honeymaren's head by means of the reindeer fur, listened to where she was breathing and gently covered her mouth.

Honeymaren startled and Elsa breathed into her ear, “Be quiet, it's me, Elsa.” She felt the slight nod at her hand and let her up. Then Elsa held the flap open for her and for the first time saw Honeymaren's body completely naked in the moonlight before her. Elsa couldn't help but look at her and her gaze lingered on Honeymaren's sparse pubic hair under which her sex was clearly visible. Honeymaren paused for a moment, looked at her in surprise but without any shame, and only after a second or two put her gakti on. When she had slipped into her reindeer boots, she followed Elsa outside.

“What are you doing here?” she asked in a whisper, her eyes wide.

“I want to talk to you, Maren.”

There it was again, her short name, the kind Elsa hadn't used since escaping the forest from Kolgrimr. It astonished Honeymaren all the more now.

“All right, but not here.”

“Then let's go to our beach.”

Had Elsa actually just said “our beach“? Honeymaren couldn't help wondering, but nodded quickly and pulled Elsa with her.

A little later, they were both sitting on the weathered old tree trunk lying in the sand across the sea, its bare, barkless wood reflecting the moonlight. Both looked out at the glittering, gentle waves and enjoyed this quiet moment of beauty for a few moments.

Honeymaren turned briefly to the edge of the forest, first checking to see if anyone had followed them, before looking at Elsa with her eyebrows drawn together. Then she began to speak softly.

“So I'm really curious now, Elsa. You show up in the middle of the night, sneak into my parents' kota just to talk to me? What's so important after you've been avoiding me all this time in Arendelle, not even being able to look me in the face. And now you even call me by my pet name again and say “our” beach. What has changed that you suddenly behave like this? And then, too, those scrutinising glances you've been directing at my nakedness!”

“You're upset, I can tell,” Elsa agreed.

“You bet I am! You have pushed me away, rejected me, even despised me.” She had spoken up a little louder than she meant to, but feelings couldn't just be suppressed like that.

“I'm sorry. I didn't want all this. I was just … afraid,” Elsa confessed, lowering her head ruefully.

“Afraid? Afraid of what? Of me, perhaps? Or of being touched …”

Elsa's head jerked up and Honeymaren suddenly realised the truth, holding her hand in front of her mouth as she stared at her counterpart in deep realisation.

“By the gods, I'm beginning to understand. I thought you …”

Elsa shook her head slowly. “No, never, Maren.”

“Have you made it yourself at least once … I mean…”

Another shake of the head and a rather embarrassed look to go with it. Honeymaren had the impression Elsa's cheeks were turning rather red at the moment.

“I'm sorry, I didn't mean to be tactless, I …”

“It's all right Maren. It's just that half of my life has been dominated by fear. Ever since I was eight years old and had to be separated from my dear sister for thirteen long years.”

“But why is that? Who forced you to do such a thing? Family is one of the most important things in life. I can't even imagine being separated from them for so long.”

“It's because of my ice magic. I was born with it. Everything was halfway fine at first, but then …”

“What happened?”

Elsa decided to tell Honeymaren everything and she listened very attentively, not interrupting her with a single word, her expression growing sadder as she did so.

“Do you remember our evening in the hut after we went to the beach and I could no longer remember my life? I told you about someone important to me, someone I vaguely remembered, a face I couldn't recall. That was Anna. She was and is the most important person in my life. Unlike me, she is really outgoing and knows so many people, in fact everyone in the capital. And now with Kristoff she has experienced something that was previously foreign to me and that I never really thought about or missed. You can guess what it is, Maren.”

“Love and tenderness towards another human being.”

Elsa nodded. “Anyway, that's how it was until now.”

Honeymaren drew in her breath and her heartbeat quickened on the spot.

“Anna knows. I told her about your love for me in the night camp when we went to war and didn't know if we would survive. She … wouldn't mind such a relationship, she confessed. She had even suspected it herself with you.”

“She is a really good and lovely person. I understand now how much she means to you and why. You must love her very much.”

Elsa nodded, “She sees the potential in me that I never saw myself and was always afraid of.”

“And now? Where do you go from here? How do you imagine the future now? Or will you perhaps even stay with us as Ahtohallan's fifth spirit?”

“As for the latter, no. I promised Anna and she needs me. All is well here now after all and there is no longer any threat to you or the forest. Of course I'll check on things from time to time and with Nokk I'd be there in less than an hour. But as for the rest, I honestly don't know what to do. I have no experience and I'm not attracted to men in any way, especially not to their bodies. Just the idea …”

“… scares you,” Honeymaren added, “I feel the same way, you know?”

Elsa nodded, “But how do you deal with it and what experiences have you had with love in your young life?”

“Honestly, none yet. But I feel it deep inside … this desire … and I dream about it and …”

“About who and what …”

“I dream of you, Elsa.”

“And what are you dreaming about me? I mean … I can't really imagine.”

“Hmm … you saw me naked earlier and … looking … down there. How did that make you feel? Or were you just embarrassed …”

“No, no …, I …” Elsa stammered, unable to describe her feelings. Her body was reacting, in a place she hadn't expected, but how was she supposed to describe that to a beautiful young woman who probably had far more experience with it. Or maybe that was why she didn't need to? Elsa looked deeply into Honeymaren's eyes, her head probably flushed. She felt the heat rising inside her.

“Let's go to sleep, Elsa, and dream of me as I will dream of you tonight, as I never had before.”

~~~

---

Remark: I hope you have enjoyed this chapter! Please leave a comment if you liked the story, I would be pleased to read your opinions, even criticisms. But please only comment to the normal content here, to the outsourced scene only on my new blog. If you want to be tagged as soon I publish the next chapter please let me know, except you are already tagged :-)

Tagging: @true--north @annaofthenorthernlights @dronning-formynder05

#frozen #frozen2 #frozen3 #fanfic #epic novel #the broken bridge #chapter 72 #bigfrozenfan #elsamaren

9 notes · View notes

bigfrozenfan-fanfics · 4 months

Text

Announcement of a novelty in my fanfic blog

Tonight I will publish the last chapter of "The Broken Bridge" for the year 2023. The next chapters will follow in January and the following months.

The novelty mentioned above is that I have removed an explicit love scene from this chapter and will publish it on a specially created blog at the same time. The reason for this are the Tumblr rules, which state that adult content must be labelled as such. In the worst case, Tumblr will delete the entire blog if you violate this rule. In addition, my entire fanfic blog would only be accessible to adults after labelling even a single chapter and I don't want that. I also have readers outside of the platform and they wouldn't be able to read 18+ content if I put a "read more" separator on a long chapter, because unlike readers on Tumblr, they can't change the settings to access it. So be warned, the chapter will include a link to my new blog, but please only follow it if you're over 18!

Have fun reading my new chapter tonight!

PS: if you comment, please make sure not to quote excerpts from the outsourced scene, but only (!) in the other blog. Your normal comments on the chapter are of course not affected. I'm looking forward to your opinions… ...and Happy New Year!

You can change your Tumblr settings here if there happen any problems to see my 18+ content:

#frozen #frozen2 #frozen3 #fanfic #epic novel #the broken bridge #announcement #bigfrozenfan

4 notes · View notes

bigfrozenfan-fanfics · 4 months

Text

Chapter 71 - Captives and a war crime

Links: Chapter overview, Character list, Map, Glossar Rating: M over all Publishing cycle: around every 2-3 weeks

“Open your mouth!” the captain barked at Albert, who was sitting on a chair in the castle guards' interrogation room. Three guardsmen stood around the two of them and did not take their eyes off their prisoner. Albert Monrad looked intimidated, but behaved surprisingly composed and calm.

youtube

There was no escape here and if they proved even the tiniest detail of his involvement in the conspiracy, he would immediately be put in the brig of the next ship on his way to prison. Albert knew this and was fully concentrated without letting on. Thoughts raced in his head and he tried to look as innocent as possible.

“You cannot make me believe that you, as Osvald Monrad's brother, knew nothing of his machinations. So out with it!” continued Einar. “Admit it that you had a hand in everything and were also responsible for the fact that a brig anchored right in front of the jetty of the castle garden, thus forcing us to escort your brother to the harbour where your allies were already waiting for us. You knew from someone that we were going to ferry your brother safely and unseen in a dinghy. Admit that it was all planned down to the last detail!”

“Captain, I swear I had nothing to do with any of this. I am just an ordinary wine and spirits merchant, albeit an extremely well-known in Arendelle and beyond its borders. It's not my fault that the captain of my supplier's ship behaved like that. Please believe me,” Albert replied in the most convincing voice he was capable of in this situation. “I didn't know about any ambush either, how could I?”

Einar had so far been leaning on the armrests of the chair with both hands, his face threatening just inches from Albert's . Now he straightened up again and looked at him sceptically.

“Why is it that I cannot believe you?” he asked. “We haven't found anything incriminating in your house so far, but I think you are very cunning and would have had enough time to make all the evidence disappear in time. I have met a lot of people in my career and have developed an excellent knowledge of human behaviour, you must know. You can't fool me. You are hiding something and I will keep you here until I find out, be sure.”

“But believe me! I am a blameless citizen. It is normal that over the decades I have made many contacts with the nobility and with anyone who can afford my exquisite wines, which I import from many kingdoms. Even the castle has been one of my customers for many years. Just ask in the castle kitchen. Olina knows me and also Kai, who is responsible for selecting the wines. Ask him, he can confirm it for you, Captain.”

“Kai is not available at the moment, he is away for a few days, if not weeks. I cannot therefore ask him, and Olina, our cook is just that, a cook.” Einar pondered, not wanting to let up so quickly. With enough pressure, each respondent sooner or later gave in and revealed his secrets. It would be no different with Albert Monrad, even if he had good contacts with the upper class and had therefore learned to express himself in a chosen way. Besides, he is a trader and as such he also had to be able to haggle well and always be convincing. Einar was therefore not yet convinced of his innocence.

“By the way, we discovered something very interesting when we searched your house, which is not exactly typical for such a well-known wine merchant as you claim to be. Tell me, why do you have a dovecote under the roof?”

“The pigeons? Oh, that's a hobby of mine that I've been cultivating for over twenty years. As you surely know, I am not married and do not have a partner. I am very often alone, I am not overly busy and at some point I had the idea of having some pigeons delivered to me from the continent. I love birds and the pigeons are trusting enough that they are like a pet for me to look after lovingly, just like cats are for other people. I breed the animals, you know.”

“Hmm … and you expect me to believe that? Aren't pigeons also used as messengers for news?”

“That's right, you are well informed, Captain. They are called carrier pigeons, but ordinary pigeons are not suitable for this task and it requires years of training and partners who can devote a lot of time to help with it. It's certainly not easy, I can imagine, but it's not something I've ever really been interested in or had the time for, let alone friends who are pigeon fanciers like me. Or have you seen many pigeons in the capital or been able to watch them in flight?”

Einar unfortunately did not know enough about this subject and therefore did not know how to answer. But what he didn't know, maybe someone else could tell him and he made a mental note to look into it very soon. How cunning could a wine merchant with pigeons on the roof be. Only it was Monrad's brother and betrayal perhaps ran in the family, who knows. Stella had proved it anyway, so why not Albert?

“It's not over yet, Albert Monrad. You will be our guest for a while yet,” Einar said with an undertone of sarcasm, “Take him to the cell, men. We'll see you soon, Monrad,” Einar said, making a bored hand gesture to his guardsmen to get the prisoner out of his sight.

~~~

youtube

“I thank you for your attendance at this informative meeting, here in the castle's venerable council chamber,” Anna said, standing at the head of the large table around which everyone she had sent for this morning was now seated. She looked into each and every one of the faces that looked towards her in a friendly and expectant manner. Then she sat down with Elsa at her right and added, “Please help yourselves to drinks before we begin.” Several maids now went round asking for the guests' requests and promptly served everyone before leaving the hall again with a curtsey to the queen.

“Well, firstly, I have to express our deepest thanks to Princess Mari and her father in absentia, King Jonas. Without her and her father's help, we probably would not have been able to deal with the precarious situation in the capital so quickly, not to mention changing the battle’s course at the Misty Pass! Mari, please tell your father that we will also visit you in person soon to thank him.”

“But of course, Anna and Elsa. I am already very much looking forward to your visit,” Mari returned with a smile in personal form of address. “I am glad that the capital of Arendelle is finally safe again and that all the agitators and conspirators will soon be brought to their just punishment.”

“Thank you, Mari, you have also taken one of my concerns for today right out of my mouth. Captain Jordahl, you will leave today with the prisoners for the naval base to transfer them to the nearby penal camp. I hope everything is in order and you did not have too many problems with the … what was it … fifty-two prisoners?”

Ole Johrdahl nodded, “Indeed, there are that many. Everything is going according to plan and after I have delivered them I will set sail tomorrow morning on the voyage to the other kingdoms you mentioned in your letter, Your Majesty.”

“I will sail with him to the southern base today, Your Majesty,” Captain Holmstein added, “then we can set sail together tomorrow on the first fresh breeze, Ole.”

“Excellent, gentlemen. You will be away for many weeks and hopefully return soon with ship's bellies bulging with food and animal feed. Please take good care of yourselves, I suspect the sea is treacherous at this time of year.” Both skippers nodded to her in acknowledgement.

Anna briefly explained to the others present her plan to ask other kingdoms and trading partners for help with the lack of supplies in Arendelle. This and the prospective Crown Prince's trip to Snoob would be the first big step and she assured them of her great confidence that the problems would soon be solved.

“Unfortunately Vakretta itself cannot spare anything, even we have just enough to feed our island population adequately in the cold season,” Mitya added to her remarks.

“Please do not worry about that, Ambassador Mitya, I am already grateful that you are leading the traitor Wael to his fate, far away from Arendelle.”

“Oh, and one more thing, Captain Holmstein, has Thord's former ship, the Jarls Pride, been refitted yet? We would also need a new name for the gaff sailer, but I have yet to think of one. If you have any ideas on that, let me know. I want to send it north to bring back men, equipment and prisoners, if General Mattias and Master Fabian have already succeeded. For that, I would need another candidate captain for the ship, who can also prove himself at this opportunity,” Anna asked, smiling at the captain.

“Most of the work has been done, but for the latter I have no one who is ready,” he replied. “Do you perhaps have a candidate, Ole, whom you can spare?”

“Indeed, I have someone in mind who also happens to be on board at the moment. I'll see to it as soon as possible, Your Majesty,” the other captain replied, inclining his head towards her.

“Very well, the meeting today is progressing faster than I suspected, except for a few things I have touched on the most important. There is only one thing I would like to say, and that is our deepest thanks to you, Sorenson. Your idea with the hospital and its quick implementation has saved countless lives. You can therefore expect an official award of honour from the Royal House of Arendelle shortly and I would like to take this opportunity to ask you whether you would be willing to continue to make your services available in the future and to move your permanent residence here to the capital. We would be very happy to help with the move, so you need not worry about that, nor about finding suitable permanent accommodation. What do you think?”

“I am very honoured, Your Majesty, thank you. But if you will allow me, I would like to think about this offer before I make a final decision,” the scientist replied with a thoughtful look. He seemed very surprised, but in a positive sense, it seemed.

“No problem, take as much time as you need, Sorenson. Dr Magnus, our thanks also go to you, for your tireless efforts over the past few days. You have given new hope to farming families and in the process have been instrumental in saving lives, and that goes especially for you, Myrtha. Without your help and your … one could almost say miracle ointments, many of the people would not have recovered so quickly. Many, many thanks!'

Both rose briefly and, surprised by these honest words, bowed before Anna and thanked her for this honour.

“This brings me to my last and possibly most important point,” Anna said after a small pause. “It's about your people, Yelana, and yours too, of course, Myrtha,” she smiled, “Not only have you always been kind and helpful to us in all the time since we first met you … but since we know our mother was Northuldra, we both feel a strong connection to your people. You have become like family to us. Moreover, the Northuldra have played an immensely large part in the war and we will never be able to thank you enough for that. Our deepest regrets for the losses you have unfortunately suffered … I honestly do not have the appropriate words.”

Silence reigned for a while and one could sense that each of those present had images flashing through their minds again as they recalled the terrible events before and during the war, images that were different for each of them and that recalled their personal involvement in the events to a greater or lesser extent.

“Actually, I was going to bring this up a little later, but it seems like the right time,” Yelana said. “We will be returning to our camp shortly to see our relatives and friends again. Furthermore, there are some very important reasons why all Northuldra must return and I would like to invite you both to accompany us for a few days, Anna and Elsa. It's important and it affects Arendelle too.”

“What is it that is so important?” asked Elsa curiously, bright-eyed.

“I would rather discuss that with both of you in private, if you don't mind.”

“If it concerns Arendelle, I need to know as well, Lady Yelana,” Captain Einar, who was also seated in the select group, spoke up for the first time. “Surely you understand that.”

She nodded at him in understanding. “There is no danger, Captain, if you should suspect that. It is rather something … familiar, you might say.”

“Oh … well then. Sorry, I …” but Yelana was already waving it off and he interrupted to apologise.

“Captain Einar, I hope you don't think I've forgotten you,” Anna said, interrupting the somewhat awkward moment. “That is not the case. As far as I know, you have Albert Monrad in hot water. Is there any news on that and has he already confessed?”

“Not yet, and unfortunately we haven't been able to prove anything so far. But I have reasonable doubts and will keep him in custody for the time being until I get more information or perhaps he wears down and makes a confession.”

“I see … beyond that, has there been any progress, perhaps, in deciphering Thord's documents?” Einar shook his head regretfully.

“Very well, thank you gentlemen. That should conclude our meeting. Yelana, Myrtha, please stay a little longer, then you can tell us everything that is on your minds.”

~~~

A day's ride away …

youtube

“General, general, our platoon is back and they have prisoners with them!” reported one of the volunteer soldiers from Arendelle as he ran excitedly towards Mattias.

Mattias was sitting with some of his men and Honeymaren at dinner in the Northuldra camp and had been wondering when the first news would arrive or when the men would return. In less than an hour the sun was setting and it would soon be too dark to see anything in the woods, Honeymaren assured him. Mattias had been getting a little nervous in the meantime, but now he jumped up and faced the bearer of the good news.

When the young man stopped in front of him completely out of breath and had to rest his hands on his knees in a stooped position, Mattias put a hand on his shoulder.

“There, there, you didn't have to hurry so much. The few more minutes wouldn't have made me any more nervous. Come, sit down and take a deep drink of fresh spring water from the bucket over there and then eat with us,” Mattias reassured him and the soldier nodded before dropping to the grass and gratefully pouring two wooden ladles full of water into himself.

The general remained standing, looking intently in the direction from which the man had just come, and others now rose to see something among the trees.

Not a quarter of an hour later many men appeared, between them and on some stretchers they dragged behind them, more or less badly injured Northmen. It was Fabian's group that had split up to hunt the fugitive Northmen. The other group searched more to the southwest to find the rest of Thord's mercenaries. They manoeuvred the men who could still walk into an area enclosed by high wooden stakes and closed the door of the temporary prison. Then they called for healers and placed five stretchers on the ground in front of it. The Northmen on them were covered in blood and most of them unconscious. A few minutes later Northuldra healers attended to them.

“I'll be off then and leave you to it. I'm sure you have a lot to talk about and I don't want to disturb you,” Honeymaren said and made her way to the centre of the camp after Mattias confirmed her 'All right, see you later'.

“How did it go?” asked Mattias curiously of Fabian, who was pouring a ladle of water over his head and then taking a deep gulp from another ladle.

“Quite well actually, the Northuldra trackers have served us very well. They see tracks where I only see scrub,” replied the fencing master.

“Actually?” Mattias inquired.

“Well, an incident occurred during our mission. At some point we had to split up to increase the search range, and someone in the other group tracked down this Juhvo. You remember that sneak attack when we had already pushed the enemies to the west up the mountainside? He was Kolgrimr's second sub-leader in the eastern section of the forest.”

Mattias nodded, “How could I forget, that had cost us a lot of brave men.”

“Well, when our two groups convened the others were standing around a tree staring upwards.” Mattias raised his eyebrows. “And there hung Juhvo, viciously tortured and then strung up.”

“Who committed this atrocity?” the general asked angrily, standing up.

“That's just it, nobody wanted to have seen anything or done it.”

“This is a war crime, Fabian. Something like this should not have happened. Please stay on the case. I can understand the motives after what was done to us, but we have to find the person responsible and bring him to justice.”

Fabian nodded, “It probably won't be that easy, but I'll find him. I already have a reasonable suspicion. It must have been one of the commanders whose company was hit hardest by this attack. I suspect his men are now covering for him.”

“That sounds plausible, but raises some questionable issues if you are right. Proceed with appropriate caution, please, as direct action would probably only cause this group to close ranks and protect him even more from prosecution.”

“I'll think of something, Destin. What's going to happen to those Northmen now, anyway? To Arendelle and off with them to the penal camp at the naval base?”

“How do you know about that?” asked Mattias with a clearly astonished look.

“I have my sources,” the fencing master smirked, “but don't worry, that information is safe with me.”

“Of that I am certain, we know each other far too well for that. As for your question … they will be turned over to the Northuldra and returned back to the Northeast for questioning. Alena, this shaman, met them there in her summer camp and knows where they come from. They have better opportunities to squeeze them there, unlike us, their enemy. Know that they will receive a fitting punishment according to their traditions. Only Thord's men will come with us to Arendelle.”

“That is good. We seem to have caught all of them too. The trackers couldn't find any more traces in the remaining directions. Oh, and one more thing … we also got Kolgrimr's main sub-leader, that Karrál.”

“That's excellent news! But for now, rest and eat something, we have fried white fish or one of their traditional vegetable stews with flat bread to go with it. But the latter is baked with ground birch bark … not so much to my taste. But the fish is delicious.”

“Thanks for pointing that out, because I'm starving.”

~~~

youtube

When Honeymaren came into the camp, the first thing she did was to ask some of her people about her father's funeral and what exactly had happened a few days ago. They told her about the fight and how Halvard finally died by Kolgrimr's hand. Honeymaren could literally see him standing in front of her during this account and could very well imagine how he fought bravely against his opponent. She imagined every single blow with his fighting staff and tried to put herself in her father's place. But even he with his fighting skills had no chance against Kolgrimr with his mental abilities. A tear stole from her eye as she thanked the Northuldra around her, for she knew from her own experience how deviously Kolgrimr could defeat him. Then she stood up and walked to the four monoliths to seek out his grave.

It was not long before she found his grave. There were two graves side by side, both laid out in the traditional way, with a narrow opening at the head, formed of flat stones, between which the free soul of the dead could escape. There was no name on her father's grave, but his knife with its distinctive handle lay in front of the opening. She would recognise this carving, made by him, among thousands of knives. As she knelt down in front of his grave, her tears flowed freely down her face and it took her a little while to compose herself.

"Hello, Papa. I'm sorry it's taken me so long to get to you, but as I'm sure you can guess, I've been busy making life hell for Kolgrimr and his men, as the Arendellians would say. Elsa, Ryder with his new friend and I have defeated Kolgrimr and Ahtohallan is now free too. I only wish I had been by your side when you fought him, or that you had escaped in time. Why did you take him on all alone when you knew what skills Kolgrimr had?" Again a few tears flowed and she had to interrupt herself.

"I hope your free soul is with your ancestors now and you look down on us all. Mother and your son are still in Arendelle at the moment, but they will surely return to camp soon. Then, with all our people, we will finally honour you properly and all mourn you for a whole day. Don't worry about us, it's all over now and all the enemies have been killed or captured. We are fine and normality is slowly returning to our lives."

"Oh before I forget, Joná was able to escape that day along with Ikka and they made it onto a ship from Arendelle that your family was able to escape on. Can you imagine that? He told us everything that had happend. I'm sure you can imagine how mother reacted to that. It really devastated all of us and then that day I also made a plan."

Honeymaren told her father everything that had happened since then. She spoke to him as if he was still alive, but that was the way it was among all Northuldra when a relative had died. Some even said they had seen the dead person's soul wandering around, which could well happen within a whole year. Only if it continued to happen beyond that did one have to worry and do something about it. Slowly, Honeymaren's mood lifted and she talked with Halvard for hours until it slowly became dark and she finally rose and said goodbye to him.

~~~

Later, Honeymaren walked across the camp, looked for Alena and found her, along with Árnason, sitting around a campfire talking to each other.

“Hello, you two,” she greeted and sat down with them.

“Honeymaren, how nice to see you. You've been away from camp all day and a few of your people have missed you already,” Alena greeted back with a smile and of course her young apprentice couldn't help but look at her in love. Honeymaren tried to ignore it.

“I've had a lot to do with General Mattias and then visited my father's grave, but I'm here now. Have you noticed that all the men from the north-east have been caught?”

“Of course, no one here missed that and many Northuldra would love to go over and cut their throats. But that would not be a solution, Honeymaren. They deserved punishment, no question, but I want them to realise first what lies they had succumbed to and how much they had been manipulated by Kolgrimr.”

“That would be far too little for them, to be honest. They wanted to get involved, Alena, they could have refused to carry out Kolgrimr's brutal plan and slaughter people that way at any time.”

Alena shook her head, “You don't know the North Peoples and you don't know what their families have been through. I have been listening since they came to our summer camp, Honeymaren, and I have learned something. They deserve to know the truth about their delusion and after that they will voluntarily take their punishment, I firmly believe that.”

“And what if they don't? How will you make sure they don't escape?”

“I will have to return in two or three days at the latest, for then all the families on the high plateau will abandon the summer camp, divide up the large herd of reindeer and return with them to the winter camp high in the north. By then I must have convinced these men of their great error, for you are unfortunately right about one thing, Honeymaren. I cannot tell the truth to my own twenty men, even if they were under the influence of a potion, unlike the others in Kolgrimr's retinue. I must keep the two groups separate, or this will end in disaster, and for my people.”

“How do you imagine that? It will never work, or will you bring the prisoners back alone only accompanied by Árnason? Impossible! That borders on suicide.”

“I honestly don't have a solution for that yet, Honeymaren. I'm afraid I'm in a dilemma and everything depends on the talks over the next two days.”

~~~

On the border with Snoob …

It had been a long and bumpy ride for Kristoff and Kai and Sven was happy to be on a long journey with Kristoff again. Sven remembered well the last time they had all been here, together with Anna and Elsa. Back then, the only bridge over the deep Gufen Gorge had collapsed behind them just as they were crossing it, and only by Elsa's quick intervention with her ice powers was she able to save them all with a big ice slide down into the valley.

But by now the dilapidated bridge had been completely rebuilt, stronger than before with a sturdy stone foundation and thick wooden planks as a roadway. Sven made a loud snorting sound to draw Kristoff's attention. He was having an animated conversation with Kai about his brother Karl and what they could expect from him. Sven repeated it again, looking at him with wide eyes and nodding several times at the new structure.

Kristoff looked up just as Sven drove onto the new bridge, but didn't notice what Sven was trying to say.

“Hey, Sven, buddy, you see that? They rebuilt the old bridge! Looks great, doesn't it? Man, that was some adventure back then!”

Sven shook his head in disappointment, because that was exactly what he wanted to tell Kristoff. Sometimes Kristoff was so lost in thought that you had to poke him in the nose first; thought Sven and rather concentrated on the way again, because the sun was already setting and it was still far to their destination.

Some hours later, they finally reached Snoob, a small cute town in the middle of a winding valley. The lanterns were already lit in the decorated streets when they knocked on Karl's front door.

Karl could not believe his eyes when he saw his brother standing in front of him. A second later, he was already hugging him and right after that, they both did their traditional greeting ritual, with Karl reciting a chant that was about birds and Kai finishing it, along with a special handshake.

“Kai, I am so pleased that you accepted my invitation and now you are here. Won't you all please come in, we're just having dinner. Hello, Kristoff, or maybe I should say Your Highness now, right?” Karl laughed and made a welcoming gesture.

Finally, when they were all seated and Karl's wife was spooning vegetable stew onto their plates, Karl mentioned the Autumn Festival.

“You are actually already a bit late, because our Buferdsdagen autumn festival ended two days ago. Only the decorations are still hanging around everywhere, as you have surely noticed.”

“Because you bring it up, Karl. Unfortunately, we had to cancel ours and I think you already know why. After all, you gave the invitation for Kai to the captain. Actually, we are here because we want to ask you, or rather the farmers of Snoob, for help,” Kristoff said.

“I can guess why,” Karl replied, “the capital needs supplies for the winter season. Well, we had a good harvest and the silos are well filled. I don't see any problem there and we can take care of it first thing tomorrow.”

“I have a request as well, Karl,” Kai added. “Can you get me an audience with the province’s baron? After all, I'm not just there for a holiday, I also have an assignment to fulfil for the queen. But I promise, this time I won't just stay for a day, if you don't mind, but I can be here longer.”

“I'm so glad and you can stay with us as long as you like, brother!”

~~~

youtube

The evening had fallen in the castle of Arendelle and the sisters were sitting with Yelana and Myrtha in the fireside room in front of a crackling fire with a hot cup of chocolate, chatting comfortably together. Yelana had already told them the reasons for their return journey before they had dinner together, but had not been very forthcoming about details. The sisters were now suitably curious.

“Well, Yelana, go on then and don't make such a secret of it,” Anna said, sipping her cup audibly.

“Well, apart from the planned marriage of Joná to Ikka and to reunite our families and so on, my main concern is that I am no longer eligible to be the leader of our people. I'm already far too old and sooner or later I'll have to choose a suitable successor anyway.”

“Let me guess, Yelana,” Elsa agreed, “you have Honeymaren in mind, right?”

“Well spotted, Elsa. Despite her young age, she is the only person who comes to my mind and is best suited for this. I had had her in mind and my plans for her for a long time, but I think recent events have impressively proved to all of us what she is capable of. When I compare her with my own experience, she is superior to me in many respects, far even. Not only does she have great courage and love for our people, but she can also see far beyond the edge of a guksi and plan for the future. On top of that, she has great intelligence and exceptional physical abilities that make a good leader.”

“I think that's a good choice too, Yelana,” Anna agreed, “but then what do you plan to do in the future? Serve as an advisor to her, to instruct and prepare her for her new role in the community? Does she even know about it yet and would she agree to it? As you said, she is still quite young and may have other plans or want to start a family.”

Elsa paused in mid-motion to bring her cup to her mouth and had a certain thought because Anna had just mentioned it and she had almost stopped thinking about Honeymaren's love’s confession to her. But then wouldn't it be advisable for her and Anna not to accompany Yelana?

“That may well be, of course, but I think I know that it will not happen.” Yelana, of course, knew all too well about Honeymaren's longing for her great love, but she also knew that it would not be a good thing for either nation, despite the good relationship with Arendelle. Yelana cast a quick sideways glance over at Elsa and their eyes met.

At that moment Elsa realised that Yelana knew and after a few seconds of searching each other's eyes, she nodded to Yelana in a certain way. She received a knowing smile back in response. Then Yelana continued.

“When I have cleared everything with her I would like to return to Arendelle, continue to serve as a councillor and settle permanently here somewhere in the countryside. Provided you both agree to that.”

Myrtha had kept quiet so far, but at this statement, as the only other Northuldra present, she had to say something in response.

“Yelana, while I agree that you have chosen Honeymaren as your successor, now that the threat of Kolgrimr is finally gone, I think you should stay with our people. You belong with us and they miss you. And as Anna said, it is necessary that you instruct Honeymaren and teach her what will be her new responsibilities. That takes time and apart from the fact that it's also quite beautiful in Arendelle, it's no comparison to our vast, sparse birch forests, the nature, the reindeer and ultimately the closeness to Ahtohallan and the nature spirits. Which brings me to another question.” With that, she looked Elsa straight in the face.

“Will you return to us, Elsa? You have all your powers back now and you are still our Fifth Spirit.”

With that, Myrtha had brought up two explosive matters. There was an awkward silence for a while and Myrtha had the undoubted impression that she had hit a sore spot. With all three of them!

Anna and Elsa started to answer at the same time, but with gestures they could not decide who should speak first, when Yelana intervened.

“You're right, Myrtha.”

They all looked at her

“But there is something else I have not yet mentioned, and that also requires Honeymaren's presence in Arendelle. At least temporarily, because I have a crazy idea about that. However, two things are necessary for this. Firstly, I have to show it to both of you first, Anna and Elsa, and secondly, it is ultimately up to you to be allowed to implement my plan. It will unite our two peoples like never before and open up unimagined possibilities for the future.”

~~~

Ole Jordahl let the ARN Crocus slowly steer around the island and navigate between other smaller islands offshore. No easy task in these somewhat treacherous waters in the increasing darkness. But the helmsman knew his way around like the back of his hand and steered the big ship to the harbour with somnambulistic certainty.

The royal naval base was located south of Snoob on a small island that was only connected to the land at one point and otherwise surrounded by sea, small fjords and tiny rocky islands. In addition, the waters all around were interspersed with underwater rocks and often offered incalculable currents.

Directly on the narrow land connection lay the large fort as a bulwark against possible attackers and constantly manned watchtowers stood about every fifty metres around the island. To the south, in a deep, protected indentation, lay the Arendelles shipyard and in the centre was the extensive penal camp with attached laundry, workshops and many other buildings that served to run the base. Finally, there were the closely guarded barracks for the prisoners themselves. So far, no one had escaped from here in the last decades, and the hull crew of the naval base comprised several hundred men, in addition to the changing ship's crews and the countless freelancers and suppliers from the mainland.

When the Crocus was about to enter the harbour, the skipper had light signals sent out so that each of the guards knew there was no danger. The ARN Sunflower followed a few ship lengths behind them and was now closing fast.

Despite his years on the base, Jordahl was always fascinated by the massive fort, which was built in a star shape and gave views in every conceivable direction. It was a bulwark with walls metres thick and the largest fortress that existed in all of Arendelle.

Half an hour later, the skipper headed for his quarters on the island, shortly after which he threw his document bag on the table, made himself a cup of tea and dropped into his comfortable armchair. The rest, i.e. the removal of the prisoners to their cells, was now taken care of by others, as was the stocking up of supplies for the long journey that began tomorrow morning. Just enough time to take a bath, pack a few personal things and get enough sleep.

Captain Holmstein was probably feeling the same way right now; Jordahl thought and looked through the royal documents again to plan the route.

~~~

---

Tagging: @true--north @annaofthenorthernlights @dronning-formynder05

#frozen #frozen2 #frozen3 #fanfic #epic novel #the broken bridge #chapter 71 #bigfrozenfan #Youtube

9 notes · View notes

bigfrozenfan-fanfics · 5 months

Text

Chapter 70 - The realm must go on

Links: Chapter overview UPDATE, Character list UPDATE, Map, Glossar Rating: M over all Publishing cycle: around every 2-3 weeks

Remarks: all my chapters contain carefully selected music tracks (try to use headphones). It’s your own decision if you want to use them or not while reading. The purpose is to musically support the respective mood of the plot. If you can please use a browser for reading (not the Tumblr app) due to the text formatting and music. I hope the links to the music are working during reading, due to the new Tumblr editor. Sorry for my long hiatus and i hope you still remember what had happened before.

A few hours earlier …

Halima had become bored in her room at the castle, because apart from sitting around reading or watching Elin in her reading and writing lessons with Olaf, she couldn't really do much. She worried about Destin's well-being all the time and she missed not only him, but also her house with its small garden. At least there she could do something productive, weeding or cooking. Halima sighed, finally made a decision and stood up.

“Elin, Olaf, I'm going back to my house and if you want, you're welcome to teach Elin there too. What do you think?”

“But isn't that dangerous?” returned Olaf, “After all, General Mattias has specially arranged for you to stay here in the safe castle until he returns.”

“Destin was just overly worried about us, Olaf, the citizens of Arendelle do live at home, and besides, there are patrols all over the city to protect us. At least in my house I could make myself useful, continue to take care of Elin's room, which is not quite finished yet, and work in my garden too. Here in the castle, I also miss cooking for myself, and besides, I could finally read fairy tales to the children again at the orphanage. They certainly miss me already.”

“I want to go home too,” Elin said, standing up and hugging Halima, “and I haven't seen Liv at the orphanage in a long time either.” She looked up and Halima stroked her hair, smiling.

“I'm glad we agree, my dear Elin. So are you coming Olaf?” She looked at him questioningly and finally he nodded.

“All right. I'm already curious about Elin's room too, and listening to you tell fairy tales is bound to be very interesting.”

“It's a deal then,” Halima rejoiced, “Pack up everything you need and let's go.”

They signed out to Kristoff and Kai, and then went out into the castle courtyard. Captain Einar, who always kept an eye on who wanted to go into the castle and who was leaving, had no objections either and told himself that they were not castle residents except for Olaf and that he could not tell them not to return to their house now.

Minutes later, Halima unlocked her front door and the first thing she did was to open the windows to let in some fresh air. Meanwhile, Elin led Olaf up the stairs to show him her little kingdom.

When Halima turned around and was about to go outside to the garden, she noticed a sealed envelope on the kitchen table. She sat down, picked it up, and read her name in Destin's handwriting on the front. Her heart began to race as she broke the seal and immediately began to read. Shortly after, she burst into tears and sank down sobbing over the letter.

~~~

As he did every morning, Albert Monrad climbed the narrow stairs, opened a small hatch and got under the roof where the pigeon loft was located. The typical cooing of a dozen animals greeted him and now and then the typical sound of pigeon wings clapping against each other as they flew. To his trained ears, everything sounded fine, as it always did. It happened only extremely rarely that an animal lay dead in the cage.

youtube

Most of the dark, warm attic room was filled by a wire mesh cage just high enough for an adult to stand in. Several wooden compartments were placed along the cage wall for the pigeons to rest in, and a small opening at the front led outside to a narrow board from where the carrier pigeons could take off and land. First Albert opened the narrow lattice door, slipped inside and checked the condition of his pigeons, talking to them like with a pet, giving them food and water.

After all the animals were taken care of, he went to the narrow opening facing the harbor side and pulled a pair of binoculars from his shoulder bag to watch what was happening at the castle. He had a reasonably good view from here, but sometimes he wished his house was a little higher up the slope. An hour ago, Stella had returned, told him about her experiences with the secret group, and explained her crazy plan on Reinhard's behalf. After she left again, he immediately went aboard the brig anchored at the dock not far from his house and explained to the crew what he was up to.

And now he was standing under his roof watching the ship drop anchor right in front of the castle gardens and a dinghy ferry over there. He had to grin broadly when he saw the captain gesticulating wildly, but Stella's plan ultimately worked. Albert stayed where he was and waited.

Finally, at some point, the instigated uprising occurred and Reinhard's group, with Stella's help, not only managed to free his brother, but even kidnapped Her Highness Kristoff Bjorgmann. As Albert watched Stella's life-threatening actions, his heart nearly stopped.

“Oh, my little one, what devil possessed you to attempt such a foolish thing,” he muttered to himself, unable to take his eyes off her through his binoculars in excitement. But all went well and when she and the gang rode off, no one following them despite the alarm bell, he breathed a sigh of relief.

He needed something high-proof now after that shock and was already climbing back down the stairs when the alarm bell at the top of the watchtower was struck again. He hurried back to his vantage point and it wasn't long before the largest ship he had ever seen in Arendelle's harbor slowly and majestically sailed in and anchored at the longest jetty. Shortly after, he saw the queen disembark with her sister and watched, shaking his head, as Captain Einar received a resounding slap from the queen just two minutes later and at the same time many stretchers with lifeless bodies were carried off the ship.

“So they actually won the war after all,” he muttered to himself and great apprehension rose in him, because now the queen would initiate hunts for the spy network, which would ultimately lead to him if things went south.

Albert cursed and hurried back downstairs. Now he had to move quickly and make every clue disappear that connected him to this group. Documents, notes, the small tube for the messages with the carrier pigeons and, above all, the coin that was his secret identification. He wondered how much time he had left before the men of the Guard would knock on his door.

~~~

A day's ride away …

“You should have seen all the earth giants digging the tunnel through the mountain with a deafening roar,” Mattias said excitedly to Honeymaren, who accompanied him as he walked among Arendelle's old tents near the former dam to check on the repair work. The normally sturdy canvas had suffered greatly after so many years, and the remaining soldiers needed temporary waterproof shelter for the next few days until they could return to Arendelle.

There were about sixty soldiers left to find and capture the fugitive enemies. Honeymaren had organized trackers among her men to help speed the search, and Fabian, along with a captain, led the platoon.

Meanwhile, a third of all the soldiers took care of the equipment on the two wagons, bringing everything down to the tent camp, now mending the torn canvas and then setting up the kitchen utensils along with the fire baskets for the night.

They also had to take care of the remaining horses, which had not perished in the flames or had fled in panic. Some of them were probably already on their way back to Arendelle, which was good because of the difficult food situation here with the Northuldra. Much of the food they had brought with them wasn't left and might last for a day or two.

“You said that many of your horses perished in the fire. I assume they were not taken to the big ship like the injured and dead,” Honeymaren noted. “Did you just leave the carcasses there, or what did you do with them? And what about all the dead from Kolgrimr's and Thord's army, anyway? Are they all still lying there too?” she asked.

“Those are very good questions, Honeymaren, and we racked our brains over them for a while, too. But then Her Highness Elsa had the idea of digging two mass graves with the help of the Earth Giants. At least the one of the enemies we marked with a circle of wooden stakes, so that their relatives can find them again someday. After all, we don't know their traditions as far as burials are concerned.”

“Yes, that's right, Mattias, and I'm glad you thought of something like that. I'll tell Alena about it later, because maybe she has a way of sending a message to their families. We do indeed have very special funeral ceremonies and how exactly someone is buried is essential. I'll tell you about it sometime.”

When Honeymaren mentioned this, she had to think of her father at the same moment and whether he could be buried properly in the turmoil. Later, she definitely had to have the place shown to her and visit the grave.

Then she continued, “Come to think of it, the fighting up in the pass must have been terrible. We are a peaceful people and war is usually foreign to us, certainly not in that way,” she added quietly after a moment.

Mattias nodded. “Except for the terrible fight our old king caused among your people back then, this kind of brutality was also the first time for me and you can believe me that I feared for everyone's life every second, especially for the majesties. Queen Anna was slightly injured by Thord, as you surely know, but thank God nothing worse happened and I am so glad that they are on their way back to Arendelle now. I hope I can do the same soon when all the fugitive enemies have finally been tracked down. I miss my Halima very much, and I'm sure she's very worried about me.”

“Yes, I think so too. You looked so happy together and love each other very much, I'm sure of it.”

Mattias nodded, “I thank you. May I take this opportunity to ask you something?”

Honeymaren looked at him curiously, “Of course.”

“You're still so young, but may I ask if you have a life partner as well?” Mattias avoided using the feminine form because he had some gut feeling that way, but wasn't sure, despite his observations in Arendelle and a vague hunch.

“No … not yet,” she answered after a few seconds, looking down at the ground. Images of shared moments with Elsa flashed through her mind and Mattias felt that there was something that moved her a lot right now. Therefore, he did not probe further and respected that she did not want to talk about it. This young Northuldra was an extremely interesting person and what she had shown in the last days in bravery and courage deserved the greatest admiration; he thought and nodded instead.

~~~

It was not quite as Albert had suspected, only his estimate of his remaining time had been somewhat correct. They didn't knock on his front door, they just kicked it in and stormed the house while he was sitting relaxed on his sofa with a chilled glass of wine. The noise made him snort the sip of wine in his mouth across his table in shock.

“Albert Monrad, in the name of Her Majesty Queen Anna of Arendelle, you are hereby under arrest!” the tall commander of the elite guard barked at him with a grim face as he stood menacingly in front of Albert. “You are charged with conspiracy and aiding and abetting treason against the crown. Stand up and turn around to face me with your hands behind your back so we can put the shackles on you. You will be taken to the castle for immediate interrogation and your house will be searched from cellar to roof. Your property is confiscated until further notice and until you prove your innocence.”

Albert had no chance and perforce followed the order.

“Shackle!” he heard behind him and immediately felt the cold, metal handcuffs on his wrists.

“Go ahead, men, and be as thorough as you can. Don't show any respect for the inventory and find all the evidence! After that, board up the entrance and hang the sign you brought with you on it. And now lead him away!”

Two men grabbed Albert and, with an iron grip, led him not-so-gently outside, while he heard his furnishings being crunched behind him. He only hoped that they did not smash his large glass display case, for it had been immensely expensive, and he also hoped that his noble wine stock in the cellar survived.

~~~

youtube

After working in the garden, Halima prepared dinner and lit the candles and lanterns because it was getting dark outside. Then she gathered the dishes in the kitchen and set the table. Because of the move to the castle, she and Destin had used up all the non-perishable food, and she was happy to use the bounty of her small garden, which provided lettuce, chives, carrots, all kinds of herbs, and much more. Halima grabbed a bowl, knife, and scissors and pulled from the beds everything she needed to make a delicious and healthy salad.

“Elin, Olaf, dinner will be served in half an hour, can you come down then?” she called upstairs when she was back in the house and then started to prepare everything at the dining table. Shortly after, she heard Elin's bright laughter and her loud stomping on the stairs when she came downstairs. Sometimes Elin would take two steps at a time and jump down, making the wood groan.

“Elin, please be careful on the stairs, do you hear?” Halima called loudly.

“I will be careful,” the little girl said as she ran, or rather bounced, happily into the living room. Olaf, with his short legs, couldn't follow so fast and came a minute or two later.

“Elin, would you like to help me wash the lettuce outside in the little rain barrel, so that there is no more soil on it?” asked Halima, smiling and holding the big head of lettuce in front of her.

Elin grabbed it and said, “I'd love to,” while she already ran past Olaf, who was looking at her in confusion.

“Why don't you sit down, Olaf?”

“Why does Elin do that?” he asked with raised eyebrows, pulling himself up onto an empty chair.

“Freshly harvested lettuce always has bits of soil on it, and sometimes little critters or slugs. Elin cleans it outside with rainwater, so we don't eat anything that doesn't belong in the lettuce,” Halima explained, and Olaf nodded thoughtfully, since as a magical snowman he never had to eat anything.

About three-quarters of an hour later, Halima and the little girl had finished eating, and Olaf offered to help clear the table.

Halima was about to accept when there was a knock at the door.

It was the woman next door who looked at her in surprise as soon as Halima opened the door.

“Hello, Halima. I saw your light on and had to come and see. I thought you were in the castle?” she greeted and waved to Elin and Olaf as soon as she noticed them.

“I wanted to go home again and have been back since this morning. Why don't you come in and sit down? We've just finished dinner. Would you like some tea?” she said, going to the stove to fill the kettle outside with water.

“No, thank you. Since this morning you say? Then you haven't noticed all that's happened since then!” the woman next door said as she entered and stopped in surprise.

“Happened? Not something bad again I hope!” Halima turned to her with concern.

“Well, well … as you see it. I think you'd better sit down and I'll tell you everything I know and saw for myself from the bakery.”

The neighbour went on to tell excitedly and with gesture-rich, embellished descriptions everything she had seen at the harbour and how Kristoff had been kidnapped there at gunpoint.

“I stayed at the market for a while, talking to some traders I wanted to buy from about what was going on, when a huge ship came into the harbour. I immediately ran to the quay wall to get a better view of everything. Then I saw the majesties disembark and was totally relieved. Queen Anna in her magnificent armour and her sister in a bright white dress with a small, strange animal on her shoulder.”

“Anna and Elsa are back?” exclaimed Olaf in amazement, interrupting her flow of speech for the first time.

“Have you seen my Destin too? Is he all right?” asked Halima excitedly.

“I'm afraid I don't know, I haven't seen him, only the dispute between the queen and the captain of the castle guard. But there were many people being carried off the ship on stretchers at the same time, and I hope he wasn't one of them,” she replied, and at the same moment slapped her hand over her mouth in fright at her careless remark.

Halima pulled up so fast at this horrible notion that her chair tipped backwards.

“Elin, Olaf, come! We must get back to the castle at once!” cried Halima, taking Elin's hand in hers to pull her outside. Olaf followed, tripping as fast as he could.

“I'm sorry, I didn't mean it like that!” the neighbour called after as she looked after them, holding on to the doorframe. “Er, now what about all those burning candles and lanterns, Halima?” she shouted.

“Put them out and pull the door shut behind you!” came back from a distance as Halima turned briefly in her run and shouted back.

~~~

youtube

“So, Elsa, you mentioned earlier that you had some ideas,” Anna said, popping a spoonful of hot chicken soup into her mouth, “let's hear it,” she continued as she swallowed.

The three of them were sitting down to dinner with Kristoff, now getting some rest for the first time, having each had a hot bath and put on something comfortable earlier.

“We can't discuss the most important details until tomorrow morning in the study anyway, when we are rested and have all the current information in front of us. Nevertheless, you should already think about how we can get our supply problem under control. We have promised our citizens that they will not have to suffer hardship in winter and especially the cattle feed and wheat for the bakers and confectioners are the biggest problem at the moment after Kolgrimr burnt down the barns and silos. It is only a few weeks until the first snow falls and the Yule festival is also just around the corner, not to mention all the festivals during this special time. Vegetables are also in short supply and quite honestly, I don't like to live exclusively on fish and meat, apart from the fact that it leaves us short of many vitamins for the cold season.”

“I could head south, to Snoob, and see about replenishing the missing food there,” Kristoff suggested. “That area is known for its lush agriculture and the farmers there should be able to help us in part with what they can spare. Afterwards, when I return, I could also take care of the needs and rebuilding of our farmland. Kai could accompany me to Snoob and take the opportunity to visit his brother Karl. After all, he was invited and can certainly use his family contacts for the benefit of the capital.”

“It's a good idea in itself, Kristoff, and your willingness to help is really commendable. However, we should ask Kai first. He is important and actually indispensable to us,” Elsa said.

“I agree with you, Elsa, but even Kai needs a breather after all the hustle and bustle of the last few days. Besides, to be honest, he is no longer the youngest and sooner or later we will need someone to replace him in his position. We should therefore go easy on Kai and give him a well-deserved holiday,” Anna interjected. Elsa looked at her with a serious expression.

“I wouldn't have expected such a statement from you,” Elsa replied, “but to be honest, you're not entirely wrong. I don't know if he hasn't already thought about choosing and hiring a successor himself one day. It's a highly trusted position with associated sensitive knowledge of the royal house, and Kai knows that very well. So not everyone is suited for it.”

“It's not like we have to make up our minds so quickly, I just wanted it said because we're talking about him right now.”

“It's okay, Anna, you're right. By the way, one of my other ideas is to ask other kingdoms for support. After all, we don't need to go into detail about the exact reasons, just that it's an emergency.”

“And who did you have in mind? In the approaching winter it's certainly no fun to take long sea routes, apart from the fact that our messages will be long in coming, and by then we'll have the first ice in the fjord.”

“I know, sis, that's why I was thinking of those closest to us, so Weselton and the southern isles.”

“You can't be serious, Elsa!” exclaimed Anna, jumping up. “These two of all people. You already know that we no longer have any trade relations with the Duke for good reason, and it's even worse with the royal house of Westergaard. You do remember that 'you know who' tried to kill you?” Anna got upset and looked at Elsa as if she were out of her mind. “And me along with it!”

“What about Corona?” interjected Kristoff, “as far as I know Master Fabian has very good relations with that realm and people say it is very rich.”

Anna and Elsa looked at him and nodded. “Good suggestion, Kristoff,” Anna said.

“Well, I guess Fabian will have to take a little trip when he returns,” Elsa added.

“I know what you're about to say in reply, but what about Vassar?” asked Anna as she sat back down,

Elsa rolled her eyes. “Well spotted, sis, for you too know the annals and what happened then, at the time our parents were about to be married. The books speak of dastardly attacks in our capital and even an attack down in the throne room during the bridal show. No, Anna, under no circumstances should we get involved in this risky game, no matter how many resources this land offers.”

“Apart from Vesterland, that doesn't leave us with many options, does it?” added Kristoff. “Vakretta has just enough for itself, as I learned from Mitya.”

“As for Vesterland, we still have to thank King Jonas and Mari officially and most sincerely. Preferably in person. Without their help, the war might have ended differently and far worse. I'm thinking especially of you, Anna! Speaking of which, how is your leg doing in the meantime?”

“Much better and Dr Magnus has noted good healing with no complications, so all is well.”

“Alright, we'll sort the rest out in the morning, I'm getting tired and you should sleep for a few hours too. Tomorrow we will have a full agenda.”

“Elsa, you do realise that this was supposed to have been my part to say, as queen?”

All three laughed as there was a knock and Kai entered with a small bow.

“Your Majesty, Your Highnesses, you have visitors. Halima wishes to speak with you and Elin, accompanied by Olaf, is also with her.”

“Let them in, Kai … oh, and please stay here, because we have a request for you,” Anna said.

Kai raised his eyebrows in surprise, but then said “Very well” and invited Halima in, closely followed by Olaf and little Elin. All three rose to greet the late visitors.

As soon as Halima saw Kristoff, she sighed with relief that he had managed to escape his captors. Then she curtsied, while Olaf rushed forward to embrace the sisters.

“I'm so glad you're back,” he said.

“I apologise for interrupting your dinner, Your Majesty, Your Highnesses, but I am very worried about my Destin,” Halima said, interrupting Olaf's greeting. “I only learned about today's events when I came home earlier, but my neighbour didn't know if he… I mean … he hasn't been to see me since and … is he still alive?” Halima's tears flowed and she began to sob heartbreakingly.

Elsa and Anna rushed to her and took her in their arms.

“Don't worry, Halima. The General has stayed behind with Master Fabian to capture the fugitives and organise everything else. He is unharmed and well,” Elsa reassured her.

Halima laughed through her tears of relief and hugged the sisters tighter.

“I'm sorry, but I'm so grateful for this good news and also for your escape, Your Highness,” she said in relief as she broke the embrace and looked at Kristoff with a smile.

They invited Halima to dinner and chatted with Olaf, who couldn't wait to hear all about it, giving him only the broad outlines of what had happened during the war. The sisters were still struggling to process everything, especially Anna, so it was mainly Elsa who did the talking.

Halima and Kai listened with equal interest, but sensed that the sisters had good reason not to go into the gruesome details, which was not surprising. The main thing was that the royal siblings had returned safely and that the enemy and his supporters in the capital had been defeated or captured.

Eventually Elsa changed the subject to Kai's holiday and what Kristoff was up to in Snoob. Kai didn't want to get involved at first, arguing that there was too much to do at the castle, but eventually he agreed. Anna ended the evening and everyone wished each other a good night. Halima did not want to return to the house so late and took Elin to the room upstairs.

~~~

youtube

The next morning started very early for the sisters and, as always, it was Elsa who got up first and went downstairs to wake Anna. They let Kristoff sleep for a while longer until Kai was supposed to wake him up around eight. First they sifted through all the documents that had accumulated during their absence, signed many documents and began to write the first letters of request to the friendly kingdoms and trading partners. They didn't even notice how time passed until there was a knock and Kristoff entered the study, still a little sleepy.

“How long have you been awake?” he asked, yawning and dropping into the armchair in front of Anna's desk.

Elsa, who had been standing next to Anna watching her write, looked at him with a grin and said, “You know me, Kristoff, as soon as it dawns the new day begins for me.”

“There, all done, Elsa. What do you think?” asked Anna, holding out the letter she had just written to her. “Morning, darling, sleep well?” she then grinned mischievously at Kristoff.

“I know, I'm usually an early riser, but the last few days have been very long and I wanted to sleep a little longer now that you're back,” he explained, understanding very well the subtle tone in which Anna had addressed him. He knew her moods and feelings quite well by now and therefore understood exactly what she wanted to tell him between the lines. Sometimes a certain look from her was enough. He grinned back.

“It's perfectly worded, sis, I couldn't have written it better,” Elsa said and put the sheet back on the desk. Anna folded it after signing it, slipped the letter into an envelope and addressed it before it landed on a sizable pile of other letters.

“I think we're done with the paperwork for this morning, I'd say,” Anna said, “what do we do next? First summon the master stonemason to the castle, or do you have another suggestion, Elsa?”

“Why so formal, Anna? I think we should show our faces in the city and try to talk to our citizens personally and informally. You are much closer to the people than I ever was, and that way we catch the mood and feelings much better. In casual conversation, we are also much more likely to learn about the wishes and needs of our citizens. We can also take this opportunity to visit the stonemason at the cemetery and then the bishop.

“That's an excellent idea, Elsa. But why the bishop? My … uh, our wedding will take place next year, after the winter,” Anna replied with a sideways glance at Kristoff, who was now sitting up, his ears perked up.

“Not about that, Anna. I think we shall need him for the blessing of a second cemetery. There are so many people to be buried who died in the war in such a short time that probably the old cemetery won't be enough for that. That's another reason why I suggest that we look at the site for this and for the large memorial stone together beforehand.”

“True, that hadn't even occurred to me. Oh, and as for the bishop, we could also take this opportunity to coordinate the date for the service in the chapel with him,” Anna said. “An hour before noon would be best.”

“We also urgently need a speech to the people, which you should give after the memorial service, Anna. With all the tributes to the fallen, mentioning their names. Unfortunately, we now have the list.”

“Then we'd better get on it right away and also inform the citizens of the church date during our town tour later.”

“After the service I will leave for Snoob with Kai. It will take us many hours to get there,” Kristoff added. “I'll go downstairs and get everything ready for the journey.”

“All right, dear,” Anna said, “oh please send Kai up first, we have one last task for him before he packs his things for the holiday. It's about the invitations to a meeting in the council chamber.”

“Alright, see you later then, love,” Kristoff greeted and left the study.

~~~

A little later there was a knock and Kai entered.

“Your Majesty, Your Highness, you wished to see me?”

“Yes, Kai, I need you to do something important for me before the memorial service at eleven,” Anna said. “We are running out of time with all that still needs to be done.”

“Very well,” Kai agreed, “I didn't know about the chapel appointment yet.”

“We decided at short notice, Kai, because we shouldn't wait too long to do it. So, before you go on your well-deserved leave you need to get this stack of letters on their way, part of which is destined for the ARN Crocus, along with this Royal Order,” Anna said, holding up a sealed envelope. “Next, I would ask that you notify Captain Ole Jordahl of the Crocus and also Captain Holmstein of the Sunflower that we expect them in the Council Chamber at half past two for an important meeting. Furthermore, Princess Mari, Ambassador Mitya, Yelana, Captain Einar, Sorenson and Dr Magnus must also be informed of this.”

Kai nodded and stepped to Anna's side to take the letters on her desk. “I will see to it immediately, Your Majesty.”

“Lastly, I have a special assignment for you, and it's in Snoob. Kristoff has no doubt already told you that he wants to see about replenishing our missing resources with your and your brother Karl's help, but that is not my concern right now. Please seek out the Baron there and ask him if he can see to it that the mayors from all the big settlements in the south choose the best candidates to set up a new royal council. I trust in your expertise, Kai, and hope you can assist in the pre-selection of suitable candidates.”

“I am deeply honoured, Your Majesty, for this responsible task, which I will fulfil with pleasure,” he said with pride, bowing deeply to Anna.

“But please, Kai, don't forget that you are actually on holiday and should enjoy your stay in Snoob, yes? Have a good rest and we wish you lots of fun with your brother and family. You have truly earned it and we would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank you for your faithful service.”

“Thank you, Your Majesty, Your Highness, I promise,” he said with a smile and nodded to both of them. When he had closed the door of the study behind him a moment later, the sisters breathed a sigh of relief.

“Then this would now also be set in motion and I hope he is not only thinking about work,” Elsa said, “but let us now continue with your speech, I would also mention the following.”

~~~

youtube

A little later, when Anna and Elsa set off on their tour of the city, accompanied by two guardsmen, they immediately noticed that the streets were less busy than usual and that it was quieter overall. The shops were all open and also a few market stalls, but the atmosphere seemed somehow depressed to the two.

“Do you notice this silence too?” asked Anna.

“Many will no doubt be saying goodbye to their loved ones right now in the makeshift mortuary, up by the city wall, Anna, or attending the early service in the small city chapel.”

“If only all this had never happened, Elsa. I am saddened by it and do not know how to help everyone.”

“Time heals all wounds, sis, believe me. Perhaps soon we should encourage the citizens to go mushrooming or berry picking, or hunting, to get away from all the sad thoughts and enjoy nature again. They need a distraction and by the way, it enriches the diet.”

“Good idea, I had thought of that too and we could call for it in the next Sunday paper. The lobster fishing season is just getting started now too,” Anna added as they stood outside the newly refurbished hospital and entered together to visit the injured.

When they were outside again and strolled to the bishop's house, Elsa said, “Sorenson has done us an invaluable service. Who knows how many more would have died otherwise. We should give him a title and award him for his outstanding work. The new medical staff led by Dr Magnus has done an equally outstanding job.”

“Not to mention Myrtha's healing skills,” Anna added and Elsa nodded vigorously.

Over the next hour and a half, together with the bishop and the stonemason, they visited the site for the second cemetery on the left above the mountain road and decided where the war memorial should be placed. Afterwards, everyone returned to prepare for the memorial service. Later in the day, the clergyman would bless the staked out area and consecrate it as a cemetery. The fencing and everything else could follow later, but it was urgent to bury all the fallen with dignity so that the families could say goodbye one last time.

On the way to the castle, the sisters stopped at some shops, greeted everyone they met and told them to come to the castle chapel at eleven.

~~~

Shortly before the appointment, when the bell began to ring, Elsa and Anna stood at the top of the ballustrade and watched as people from the city streamed into the castle courtyard. Some stayed there talking, others were already going into the chapel.

“We should go down slowly too, Anna. Are you nervous about the speech?”

“A little, but only worried about forgetting something.”

“You'll be fine,” Elsa said, putting an arm around her sister's shoulders.

youtube

Minutes later, they walked at a measured pace with Kristoff down the aisle towards the altar, where the bishop already stood waiting with his Bible in his folded hands, facing them. To the left and right of the sisters, the pews were filled to capacity and the side aisles were also packed with people. Anna turned around briefly in the middle of the chapel and looked up. There, not only the choir was ready, but many other citizens who normally had no access there. Today was probably an exceptional day; she mused and looked ahead again.

The sisters and Kristoff stood off to the side at an appropriate distance, just a few steps away from the bishop, who gave them a short, curt bow as they entered the altar area. A minute later he nodded upwards and the choir began to sing a hymn appropriate to the occasion.

When silence returned, the clergyman first began to quote some psalms from the Bible and then asked for a collective prayer. Those seated rose, all bowed their heads, folded their hands and prayed together with the bishop. When most had sat down again, the choir sang once more, but this time a song from the Bible to sing along with. At the end, he asked for a minute's silence.

He then spoke a few more personal words, but kept it brief and instead announced the Queen's speech, to which he now nodded, vacated his space for her and moved back to the altar.

��“I thank you for the numerous attendance, I almost have the impression that the whole city has come to this memorial service, which, by the way, was very beautiful, I think. Thank you very much, Bishop Ulriksøn. I will try to be brief with my speech.”

Anna glanced around and looked directly at many of the familiar faces before her. Many had bowed their heads and were lost in deep mourning for their loved ones. Anna felt she had to change her tone and suddenly realized that her prepared speech was completely unnecessary and out of place where all hope seemed lost. This was deadly serious and she had to be honest, to herself and to everyone present. For a minute she didn't say a word and just had her head down. The first people were disconcerted and raised their heads to look Anna in the face.

“War,” she said just loud enough that someone in the back row had to prick up their ears to hear her. She was silent for a few seconds and just let that word stand.

When Elsa realized that her sister was taking a completely different direction and was quite obviously mentally throwing the carefully prepared speech into the wastebasket, she looked at Anna with concern.

“I didn't know what it really meant. Until I was in the middle of it myself.” Again Anna paused for a long time.

“It's so incredibly hard for me to talk about it, and every time I start to, all the images come up in me again.”

Anna took a deep breath and raised her head. Her facial expression had changed drastically and somehow she seemed to have aged in the last minute. Elsa stepped up to her, she couldn't help it, and gently put her hand on Anna's shoulder, who put hers over it and gave Elsa a sad yet grateful look. She turned back around and continued speaking.

“I know what you feel. What thoughts torment you. What you imagine how your son, your father, your brother died. And you wonder if he suffered. And rightly so. I've seen it and you don't really want to know.”

“But you should know one thing. He was brave. He was fearless. He selflessly helped his comrades knowing he couldn't back down. Your son, father or brother saved you by doing that. Each and every one of you. He fought for his family, his friends, for Arendelle, and for me as well, and for that I owe him my deepest gratitude.”

“If it weren't for him, the enemy would be marching on Arendelle right now …. and there would be many more dead.”

“He was a hero and a lifesaver, and he died doing it. But he did not leave his life useless or in vain, you must never forget that. Many came back wounded but alive. Visit them in the new hospital. Cheer them up and give them hope, let them feel your gratitude.”

“So many died on the battlefield at the Misty Pass. Far too many and my sister and I realized that our old cemetery had become too small to bury everyone there with dignity. Therefore, we have decided to establish a second cemetery and Bishop Ulriksøn will be able to consecrate it shortly. In addition, we have commissioned a large memorial stone on which your fallen loved ones will be immortalized with their names forever, as a memorial so that this war and the brave deeds of the fallen will never be forgotten.”

Anna was on the verge of tears and shaking all over as she grew louder towards the end of the speech. Elsa sensed she wanted to get out and helped her. They both walked down the aisle with their heads bowed and all eyes followed them.

Kristoff now followed too, hurrying behind. Only the bishop remained standing near the altar as a contact in case anyone expressed a wish to confess.

Elsa and especially Anna were shortly afterwards congratulated by many outside for the moving speech, some even asking them what it was really like to stand on the battlefield and see so many die. Anna largely avoided these questions and gave only perfunctory answers. Again the terrible images rose up in her and her stomach began to rebel slightly. Elsa noticed and, saying goodbye to the bystanders as she did so, quickly pulled her back towards the castle entrance.

“You might want to lie down for a bit and close your eyes, Anna. Get some rest, there's plenty of time before the meeting.”

“Yes, perhaps you are right. But first I'll say goodbye to Kristoff and wish them both a good journey.”

“I'm coming with you. We've already done a good part of the most important things today, Anna, including your wonderful speech. Everything will be fine, don't you think?”

“Yes, the two of us together. We make a really good team, don't we?”

“You bet!” confirmed Elsa, putting her arm around her sister as they entered the entrance hall.

~~~

---

Remark: I hope you have enjoyed this chapter! Please leave a comment if you liked the story, I would be pleased to read your opinions, even criticisms. If you want to be tagged as soon I publish the next chapter please let me know, except you are already tagged :-) Note: i hope everything worked in this chapter because Tumblr changed their text editor (the old one isn't supported anymore, so i had to use a bad HTML coding) and also some changed features regarding embedded videos.

Tagging: @karma26 @true--north @annaofthenorthernlights @the-fifth-spirit-elsa @dronning-formynder05

#frozen #frozen2 #frozen3 #fanfic #epic novel #the broken bridge #chapter 70 #bigfrozenfan #Youtube

17 notes · View notes

bigfrozenfan-fanfics · 5 months

Text

Announcement: The Broken Bridge continues soon

Dear followers to my fanfic blog and to my fanfic "The Broken Bridge".

I know it's been a long time since I've published a new chapter or even been active on Tumblr. Believe me, I haven't forgotten you guys and I'm not someone who gives up on a big project just like that. But normal life unfortunately intervened, with a lot of work, new worries and also the fact that I was sick for several weeks, including a hospital stay. Still, I made time for my story and continued writing as much as I could and my mood allowed. My beta reader and friend also had a lot on his plate in the last months and could hardly work on the new chapters.

But now it's almost time and I'll put the rest of my fanfic novel online. "The Broken Bridge" will soon come to an end and you can look forward to it.

Next month there will finally be the next chapter and around every 2-3 weeks another one. Depending on how I get on. It remains exciting and thrilling with many new twists and turns and a few surprises.

Unfortunately there is some bad news. Tumblr has abolished the old text editor and so I had to use old HTML codes to format my chapters properly. Another problem could be the music videos, at least in draft mode the sound suddenly breaks off when reading and the video stops when scrolling. I will only see this when the next chapter is online. If this happens, your only option is to open the video in the background on YouTube and possibly stop it in time after the end before some other title starts automatically. Tumblr always wants to "make everything much better for us". Haha!

And to all Frozen fans out there...

Happy 4 years Anniversary to Frozen II

#frozen #frozen2 #frozen3 #fanfic #epic novel #the broken bridge #announcement #anniversary #bigfrozenfan

20 notes · View notes

bigfrozenfan-fanfics · 1 year

Text

Chapter 69 - Stella’s deed of resistance - part II

Links: Chapter overview, Character list, Map, Glossar Rating: M over all Publishing cycle: Hiatus for some months to finish the ending of my book

youtube

Elsa's plan worked one hundred percent and, as expected, despite Anna's reassuring forewarning, which many of the soldiers did not want to believe her, there was great shouting when they felt the trembling in the ground and heard the muffled stamping. When finally the heads of the giants slowly emerged from behind the pass, even the last of them believed it and they froze in fear. Anna shouted as loud as she could that there was nothing to fear, but had the feeling that her words were heard but not understood in their meaning. Everyone backed away and down the slope the first ones began to run away in panic.

Anna gave up sighing loudly, raised her arms and dropped them again powerlessly as she stood there almost alone, only with Mattias, Fabian and a few others at her side.

But Anna had to look twice now too, because Elsa hadn't told her how many were coming. More and more heads became visible until one could hardly see the sky behind the pass. This time it wasn't just two or three of them, but the whole pack of earth giants. Anna quickly waved her companions back to the edge of the forest, because it would soon be very crowded here, she suspected.

In front of the first two giants, Elsa came into view first and she grinned broadly as soon as she saw Anna standing there with her mouth wide open and big eyes. Elsa looked really tiny as she led this unique group, completely relaxed.

Soon the slope was full of the giants, at least twenty or more had come and still new heads were appearing behind the crest. Anna couldn't believe it and further down the slope the first soldiers stopped to look upwards, completely fascinated. More and more of them now stopped as well and some even returned not to miss the incredible spectacle.

Anna couldn't hear Elsa, but she knew that her sister was doing quite well without words. Just like that time on the beach when Elsa summoned Gale with only her thoughts to fetch Olaf's remains so she could build a new snowman. Anna was fascinated to this day that Olaf had kept all his memories and was just the same as always, as if nothing had happened.

But then she was jolted out of her thoughts because the giants began their work and it got loud, deafening indeed. The ground trembled as the rock of the mountain range in front of her was crushed, the first thing they did having cut a wide swathe through the patch of forest. One giant after another dug into the stony slope. Three of them worked side by side, hunched over, and as they advanced deeper, more of the giants moved up, working the rock until the beginning of a perfectly formed tunnel became visible.

In the meantime, Elsa created several sledges out of ice with an attachment shaped like the body of one of the wagons. There the wounded, dead and prisoners would find space to be pulled through the tunnels towards the fjord. Everything was carefully planned and even the slightly sloping path of ice that led through the tunnels would facilitate the transport. Anna had listened to her explanations this morning but could hardly imagine the result. She now admired Elsa's skills as an architect of impossible structures and nodded appreciatively as everything slowly took shape.

If everything continued to go according to plan, they would be sailing the ARN Crocus along the fjord this afternoon. Together with a group of Northuldra who had offered to help care for the wounded and who had just now appeared at the pass packed with baskets of medicinal herbs and paused to admire the unique spectacle before them.

Something ruffled Anna's hair and she remembered the letter she had prepared for Kristoff.

“Hello Gale,” she said laughing, “I see Elsa told you to take something to Arendelle, to my dearest Kristoff. Here is the letter for him with important instructions. He must receive it at all costs, do you hear?”

Gale tugged at a strand of her hair in confirmation and she pulled the letter from a side pocket in her breeches to hand it to the wind spirit. Seconds later it sailed away and some of the men standing around looked after it in amazement. They had never seen so much magic in their lives and slowly joy arose in them to be part of something really big here.

~~~

Kristoff sat in Anna's study in the afternoon and took care as best he could of the pending documents that were ready for him to review and sign. There were not too many of them and he collected a few in a small pile, because these concerned matters that only the queen could decide and sign off on. He noticed that he had hardly thought about Anna lately, as there were always interruptions and important decisions for him to make. Only at night did he dream of her and toss and turn restlessly in his sleep because nightmares plagued him again. He was immensely worried about her.

Kristoff leaned back in the comfortable armchair and closed his eyes to recall the beautiful moments with Anna before everything in Arendelle took such terrible developments. He had to smile when he thought of the bath he had shared with her and how embarrassed he had been at first when suddenly the window was pushed open and a strong wind blew in.

He was startled, wrenched his eyes open and was immediately on his feet. No one was to be seen, but then something flew in through the window and sailed onto the desk right in front of him. The next thing he knew, the wind was ruffling his hair and he had to laugh out loud in delight when he realised what it was.

“Hey, Gale, you're free again! So Anna and Elsa have managed to free you! Is the war won and are they both okay?”

Gale knew only one way to communicate, so in response he raised the letter in the air again and waved it under Kristoff's nose until he reached out and opened it immediately.

At first he was pleased and laughed in relief when he recognised Anna's typical handwriting, but the more he read, the more his laughter faded and he had to sit down.

“Oh my God, so many injured and casualties ...,” he muttered half aloud to himself and at the end he lowered the letter almost powerlessly.

Then he imagined what Anna had to go through there ... but she hadn't written anything about details, he lifted the two-page letter again and made sure. Then he took a quick look at the dial of the grandfather clock and rose. It was now early afternoon and he nodded resolutely as he finally said, “Thank you, Gale. I will see to it at once and have everything prepared for their arrival. Give them both my best regards and ... wait ...”

Kristoff sat down again, pulled a fresh sheet of paper from the drawer and dipped the quill into the ink glass to jot down everything he needed in brief words as a reply for Anna. He wrote hastily, looking up again and again to think, so that he would not forget anything. Finally, he folded it, stuffed it into the nearest envelope and sealed it, just as he had seen from Anna.

“Gale, would you please take this letter to Anna? And give her an airy kiss for me, will you? I think she'll understand right away,” he grinned and Gale took over the letter and floated it up and down a few times. Kristoff laughed out loud, because that was Gale's way of saying 'yes'. Then the letter flitted out the window and Kristoff was alone again.

Kai, Einar, Myrtha, Mari, Mitya, Olaf and everyone of the castle staff had to be informed immediately. Furthermore Anna's instructions had to be carried out as soon as possible. He also had to look for Sorenson, whom he hadn't seen since this morning. And again there was a lot of work ahead for him, but this time he was glad and relieved, because now he knew that Anna and Elsa were alive and well. This was also the perfect opportunity to visit his best buddy Sven and tell him the news. He had been criminally neglecting Sven lately and he was probably right to be angry with him. So Kristoff couldn't forget a bunch of carrots for him.

Kristoff grabbed the letter from the table and rushed out of the room. This time he was in a real hurry.

~~~

Anna and Elsa stood alone in the bow of the ARN Crocus and let the wind blow through their hair. Nokk helped lift the ship out of the water a little and steered it through the fjord, while Gale blew strong wind into the sails, so much and so fiercely that the Crocus just flew along. The crew were worried that the rigging and masts would not be able to withstand the wind pressure, so they crouched down either near the stern or the bow, away from any danger should the ropes snap. But Elsa had calculated everything carefully, reinforced masts and rudders with her ice magic, and given the two nature spirits clear instructions to be alert and react quickly.

She was in constant mental communication with them, while Bruni, the fire spirit sat on her shoulder and tilted his head as he listened to the silent conversation.

“I hope all is well in Arendelle and Kristoff is well,” Anna said at one point, turning to Elsa, “his letter sounded like it, anyway, though he hinted at a few things that frighten me.”

“Don't worry, sis, I have faith in him. I'm sure he has his hands full now that he's received your letter, preparing everything. We'll be there in less than three hours, then you can see him again and hold him in your arms,” Elsa replied.

“What do you think the mood in the city is like? It didn't look so good when we left days ago.”

“I hope good, but if not, I'm sure Einar has everything under control. Besides, Mari with her Special Forces regiment is also still there to smash the spy network and with the capture of these traitors and after spreading the news of our victory in the war, peace will return to Arendelle,” Elsa said, “we'll know soon enough.”

Anna nodded hesitantly, wanting to share Elsa's optimism, but still having a bad gut feeling. Kristoff had promised before they left that he would keep in touch with them, but since the men from Snoob had joined them, not a single dispatch rider from the castle had reached them. Anna couldn't shake the feeling that there might be a nasty surprise waiting for them after all. She sighed and looked ahead again, where the displaced waves and the headwind created a fine spray that kept splashing small cold drops of water in both their faces.

~~~

Sorenson had reappeared and, following Kristoff's instructions, immediately set to work with the help of Dr. Magnus, his assistant and Myrtha. Einar also took care and sent a few extra men up into the big watchtower to keep an eye out for the ARN Crocus and sound the alarm as soon as her masts became visible. Everyone in the castle, without exception, rejoiced at the imminent return of the royal sisters and Mitya, who spent most of his time in his room working on documents he had had sent for from the ship, let Kristoff know that he would be leaving the next morning.

This was the signal for Kristoff to tell Einar to prepare everything for the prisoner transport to Mitya's ship. The latter immediately gave the guard all the necessary instructions to fetch a dinghy from the Sunflower to the jetty in the castle garden and to be prepared to take the prisoners out of the dungeon within the next half hour under strict guard and to blindfold them so that they could not see what their destination would be from the flags on the ship.

However, no one had expected that another ship, which had only arrived at noon today, would depart from the harbour and drop anchor again directly in front of the castle garden. Shortly afterwards, a dinghy crossed from there with four men and two oarsmen on board. Einar ran to the jetty with arms waving and tried to make them understand that they should immediately turn around again and clear the harbour exit. But they did not understand and instead waved back in a friendly manner.

“Excuse me, Captain, but I have taken the liberty of inviting some botanists from Brinnon to show them some rare plants here in the garden so that they can take some cuttings of them for their homes,” one of the gardeners suddenly said behind him and Einar whirled around to face him with an annoyed expression on his face.

“How dare you just invite strangers here without consultation!”

“But Captain, Sir, I couldn't have known that. They come from far away and are on a world tour. Who knows when they will have the next opportunity. They are also just staying here in the garden and will be gone in two hours because they have to continue their long journey,” the gardener replied with a pleading look, “I promise!”

Einar's cheekbones ground and he glared angrily at the gardener. This completely wrecked all his plans and besides, he was desperate to prevent strangers from finding out about the prisoner transport.

“I'll give you exactly one hour, then your guests will disappear again and the ship has to set sail immediately, do you hear? Otherwise we'll have to board it and capture the crew!”

“Yes, sir, of course. Thank you also and I will pass this on to my visitors immediately.”

Einar turned abruptly and left the gardener standing without comment. Then, as soon as he returned to the castle courtyard, he beckoned a couple of guardsmen to join him.

“You and you, stand guard at the entrance to the castle garden, we are about to receive unexpected visitors who are just crossing from a foreign ship,” he ordered with an index finger in front of their noses, “and you three run and whistle the patrols back from the city. There's a change of plan for Monrad and Wael and we need to set up an escort down to the harbour. Ambassador Mitya is also leaving within the hour and His Highness wants to escort him to his ship. Therefore, the utmost caution is required!” ordered Einar.

“Understood, Captain,” it came back with a snappy salute and they began to carry out the orders.

Einar was pissed, but he had no choice now. He gave further instructions to other of his men and then made his way to Kristoff to inform him of the changes.

~~~

Reinhard lay with Stella next to him on the platform of the clock tower and had been observing what was happening on the castle grounds with a pair of powerful binoculars for half an hour. Now and then he passed them on to Stella, who also wanted to see what was going on down there. After he noticed that this strange ship was positioned across the castle garden, he took the glass from her hand again. After ten minutes he suddenly laughed.

“Great!” he said as he watched the angry facial expressions of the captain as he gave his orders and then his men scattered to carry them out.

“What do you mean?” asked Stella.

“Your idea has just succeeded, Stella. The plan is working and they must now escort your father out the front,” he replied.

Shortly after, the patrol returned from the city man by man.

“Let's go downstairs, the city will soon be unguarded, just as I expected. It is time to place our guys and get everything going. Soon it will be time, Stella, and we will strike!”

“What exactly are you planning and what is my part in the plan?” she asked.

“You'll see. While Thord's people take care of the rough stuff as usual, my men will strike by surprise when the confusion is at its greatest and the way back into the castle is blocked. They can only go forward then, and that's where we'll be. You stay close to me and try not to do anything stupid, you hear? Things could get nasty easily if we are not careful. Leave the talking and everything else to me.”

~~~

Kristoff was standing with the ambassador and his assistant, who was carrying the document bag, downstairs in front of the entrance to the castle, waiting for the two prisoners to appear. They were talking and Kristoff was about to wish him a good journey when movement came to the guards beside them. Shortly afterwards, Monrad and Wael were escorted around the corner, blindfolded and with their hands tied behind their backs, with Captain Einar leading the ten-man armed group.

Kristoff fell silent and Mitya looked towards them curiously. Einar approached them and stopped close to them so that the prisoners could not hear.

“The city guard is already on their position. They are forming a defensive perimeter to the harbour while Your Highness and you, Ambassador, lead the way. Everything is well prepared and secured. Please both avoid mentioning your name, that of the ship or the destination. Not even on the ship itself, Mr. Ambassador. The prisoners should not know until they have arrived at their destination and should remain in the dark as far as possible,” he said quietly and Mitya, as well as Kristoff, nodded silently. Einar returned the gesture and beckoned the group behind him to follow.

Everyone started moving and before they stepped onto the castle bridge, Kristoff glanced up and noticed guardsmen standing on the battlements with crossbows in the crook of their arms, watching everything vigilantly.

When they had already walked halfway to the harbour between the long double line of guards who were standing trellis and were almost about to breathe a sigh of relief, there was a sudden noise behind them in the city. Shouts rang out from there and two large groups of citizens with signs in their hands streamed out of the side streets into the market square. Einar whirled around, as did everyone else in the city guard and royal castle guard. The guardsmen drew their swords and some crossbowmen got ready to fire.

“What the hell ...,” Einar shouted, signalling them to shield them towards the marketplace.

His head jerked towards the stairs leading down to the pier. Mitya's ship was at the second jetty and it was just twenty meters to it.

youtube

“Get to the ship, men, move!” he shouted, waving his arms because the way back was about to be cut off and turning back seemed too risky.

But Kristoff and Mitya had stopped with open mouths and read with amazement what was written on the signs of this mob.

'Supplies for the winter!', 'Stop the war', 'The blood of our sons is on your hands', 'This dynasty is leading Arendelle to collapse', and other such things were written there, but in between they also noticed very alarming statements such as 'Queen Anna is a cold-blooded murderer', 'They destroyed Thord's estate and killed everyone there', 'Thord on the throne!' and 'We want Thord!'. Again and again, in the middle of all the signs, a big red 'K' appeared as a single letter.

“What do all these people mean by that?” asked Mitya, who had never come across anything like that before.

“I haven't the faintest idea,” Kristoff lied, for he knew of what the K meant and had seen on the confiscated carriage. So Thord's fugitive followers had indeed come all the way to the capital and were currently inciting a full-scale riot. Kristoff was speechless. It's a good thing Anna didn't have to see that; he thought just as bells were heard from the watchtower.

Einar glanced back. “That too!” he muttered and ran to Kristoff and the ambassador, between them and dared to put his arms on their shoulders to urge them forward.

“Please, we must go on before ...,” but he got no further, for an armed group of twenty men or more emerged from the covered permanent market stall and blocked their way to the pier. Cocked crossbows were pointed at them and the rest had bare drawn rapiers and cutlasses in their hands.

Immediately, men of the royal guard leapt forward and protected Her Highness and his visitor by pointing their crossbows at the attackers. The rest of the small group grabbed Monrad and Wael by the arms to prevent them from running away. Both said not a word, but their heads were raised listening, trying to make sense of the shouting of the crowd.

“If you do what we want, there will be no bloodshed. Then nothing will happen to His Highness and Ambassador Mitya,” Reinhard shouted loud enough for all to hear.

Monrad's head jerked around as he recognised the voice and now also knew where the journey was going. He began to grin broadly under his blindfold. Even the shouts of the mob slowly died away as they realised what they had been dragged into. Everyone looked back and forth between His Highness's group and the attackers, and more guards with crossbows ready to fire came running across the castle bridge for reinforcements.

But in the end, no one could do anything. Both groups faced each other menacingly. No one dared to fire the first shot. A stalemate had arisen in which Kristoff, the official heir to the throne, was in direct danger. But that was exactly Reinhard's plan and he played with very high risk, hoping that it would not come to the extreme. Then silence fell all around. For a whole minute and a little more.

“Listen carefully to me,” Reinhard finally began, “we only want Osvald Monrad, nothing else. Release him and nothing will happen.”

“And somebody take off his blindfold for once!” interfered Stella, who unexpectedly stepped out from behind Reinhard's back to reveal herself. Einar's jaw dropped when he recognised her.

“Stella, don't!” said Reinhard beside her, “what did I tell you? I talk, you don't!” he then whispered.

“Stella? Is that you?” exclaimed Monrad aloud.

“Yes, father! We are here to free you,” she called back, ignoring Reinhard who could only roll his eyes. That damned thick skull; he thought.

“Child, what are you doing ...,” replied Monrad, jerking the handle of his guard to break free. “Go back, that's dangerous what you're doing. Do you want to end up like me? Or worse?” he asked her angrily. “Leave my daughter alone, she doesn't know what she's doing and she's just a child, do you hear?” he pleaded with the guards.

“Silence back there, traitor scum!” cried Einar. “We will not let him go, and all of you together are at least guilty of complicity in high treason against the crown. Your leader there, however, has ordered you to directly attack the royal house, and that is punishable not only by exile from the country and deportation, but by death. So lower your weapons and surrender while you still can!”

Reinhard's comrades-in-arms were a little unsettled as they looked at each other and silently gave each other encouragement. They knew what they were getting into and that in a confrontation like this it was bound to happen eventually. Reinhard looked around briefly and knew what they were thinking.

“I am sorry, Captain, but we won’t stand down. It is you who are risking lives here if you do not release our man. Think well! One single man against many lives. We will go with him and never see each other again, that much is certain,” Reinhard said in a firm voice.

Einar hesitated and pressed his lips together until they were just a line, for this fellow was right in a way. Did he want to risk His Highness's life and, in the worst case, start a war with Vakretta if something happened to the ambassador?

But Stella wouldn't be Stella if she got involved again without considering the consequences and was unstoppable once she got going. So she took a few steps forward, making Einar even more nervous than he already was.

“I want to hug my father at least one last time and look him in the eye, Captain. You can't object to that, can you?” she said ingratiatingly and stood waiting.

It took a few seconds for Einar to react and simultaneously consider how important Stella was to the traitors and whether there might be an opportunity here that he could exploit. Finally, he nodded briefly and jerked his head back in confirmation, towards Monrad, who was anxious about his daughter.

Stella smiled as she strolled ahead, close to Kristoff, whom she gave a friendly nod to when she was level with him. The guards next to him eyed her suspiciously, but let her pass.

Why did she walk so close to His Highness, Reinhard asked himself, not liking the whole thing at all. A fraction of a second later he knew that his bad feeling had not been deceived, because Stella did something bold but at the same time reckless and his heart almost stopped. And not only him!

Stella jumped behind Kristoff in a flash and held a small knife to his throat, which no one really knew where she had suddenly got. In an instant she was facing several crossbow bolts aimed at her face.

“Stop!” she shouted, and everyone paused. “Don't do anything stupid, because if I fall I'll cut your precious highness' throat! The knife is very sharp!”

It looked almost like a kitchen knife at the distance; Reinhard thought, only Einar and the three guards saw that it was a small Damascus blade with an ornate handle, possibly a gift of self-defense for a rich and pretty brat like her.

“Now untie my father, take off his mask and bring him to me.”

However, no one stirred and she applied some pressure to the blade, causing Kristoff to groan.

“All right, you win,” Einar said placatingly, raising his hands as a sign that he was giving in. “Do as she says.”

The guards at Monrad's looked at each other at first, but then did as told. No one wanted to be to blame for His Highness's death.

As her father stood beside her, he looked at her shaking his head with a mixture of exasperation and rebuke. He did not say a single word.

“You and I are going to take a little trip now, dearie” she whispered in Kristoff's ear, which was not so easy given the size difference between them. His body had stiffened as soon as he felt the knife and he didn't quite know whether or how to react. “For I fear that Your Highness is now my hostage. At least until my father, I and the others are safe. So please don't do anything heroic, will you?” she continued.

She nodded to Reinhard as she slowly pulled Kristoff along in his direction.

“You know my wife and her sister will hunt you down and find you,” Kristoff murmured.

“Your wife?” replied Stella, “Oh, this is getting better and better, Your Majesty the Crown Prince. Perhaps we should hold you to ransom? What do you think?”

Kristoff groaned, for he had just made a big mistake, and though he was a stranger to swearing, he was now doing it about himself.

“I was just saying that, for me that's what my Anna has been for a long time.”

“Hmm ... am I to believe that? You certainly seem to love her very much, so I ask you, how far would you go for her in a similar situation?” Kristoff nodded barely noticeably so she wouldn't cut him, but she sensed it. “Do you understand now?” He nodded again. “Good. Then please do nothing to jeopardise my mission and no harm will come to you. When we reach our destination you may leave and be able to return to your ... wife.”

Meanwhile, Reinhard's men had brought horses out from behind the market stall, some of which were not seen before, and were already mounted. Einar, Mitya and all the others watched helplessly.

“We will release him as soon as we know that no one has followed us and we have safely reached our destination. Nothing will happen to His Highness as long as nothing happens to us. But if you dare to follow us or even your ice witch dares to show herself, your Highness will die. I can promise you that,” she said loudly to all the bystanders.

Reinhard took her position and threatened Kristoff with his rapier until Stella and Monrad were safely in the saddle and his fellow soldiers were still pointing their weapons at Einar, Mitya and the others who hardly dared to move. Stella now led the group and one by one they all rode away until they disappeared behind the next house corner.

Einar hung his head in despair. Mitya put a hand on his shoulder comfortingly and said softly, “This must be the worst day in a captain's life if he can do nothing more than watch helplessly, I can imagine. Do not be ashamed, you have done nothing wrong and prepared everything perfectly. Thank you. So I guess I'll take only one prisoner on board with me then, this Wael, right?”

Einar looked up and nodded thoughtfully. “Yes, Ambassador, exactly as planned. Wael will come aboard with you.

When everyone was able to get moving again, Mitya boarded with the prisoner in tow, and the mob was already making off, Einar loudly ordered them all to be captured and interrogated. The guards and the royal guard had only been waiting for this order and implemented it immediately by surrounding the mob and driving them by force of arms into the castle courtyard. Only a few had slipped away unnoticed, leaving only the signs with the big 'K' on them on the ground.

~~~

Under other circumstances, the frigate would not have been able to dock in the harbour, but with Nokk's support, the manoeuvre was possible. Throughout the operation, Elsa was in silent communication with him, giving detailed instructions on where and how to dock, while up in the watchtower the alarm bell kept sounding.

youtube

“This should be a special sight for everyone in the capital to see the flagship of the fleet up close,” Anna said, standing next to her sister in the bow and scanning the quay with glances. “I don't see Kristoff at all, where could he be?”

“Maybe he's still on board the brig from Vakretta and he'll be here soon, Anna,” Elsa replied. “But it's still a bit odd, because I see everyone else standing on the quay with the medical team, and the castle guards behind them have also lined up.”

“Isn't that Ambassador Mitya's ship?” asked Anna. “I recognise it. Even he should have noticed us by now. Very strange indeed.”

Minutes later, they docked at the longest jetty. The ARN Crocus still jutted far out into the harbour basin and two of the three gangways were lowered. The sisters disembarked first. Anna in her armour walked ahead with her head held high and Elsa with her flowing spirit robe and Bruni on her shoulder followed behind. Everyone on the pier wall went wide-eyed when they saw Elsa and realised that she had undoubtedly regained her magical abilities.

Anna saw Ambassador Mitya disembark on the jetty alongside and hurry to Einar's side to greet them both, but there was still no sign of Kristoff. Something bad must have happened, there was no doubt about it now and Anna's heart began to race. So she turned briefly to her sister and they exchanged worried glances.

“Looks like your hunch wasn't wrong after all, sis,” Elsa murmured softly and stepped to her side, “something must have happened. Kristoff would never have missed the opportunity to greet you first in his life.”

Anna said nothing in response and just nodded, her expression saying a thousand words. Elsa sighed.

While the first wounded were being taken off the ship behind them, Einar came up first and saluted them. Anna and Elsa had to take a step aside to let the first transport carts of the medical team pass, which were hurriedly pushed over the gangplank.

“Your Majesty, Your Highness ... welcome back to Arendelle, thank goodness you are back,” Einar greeted them and Mitya at his side also bowed deeply.

“What's going on here, Captain? Where is Kristoff, my husband?” Anna immediately asked and only gave the ambassador a curt nod of decency. Elsa shook her head reprovingly at her behaviour and extended her hand to Mitya to greet him properly. “Hello, ambassador Mitya, it’s good to see you again,” she said.

Einar's face had gone ashen after Anna's question. He swallowed and bowed his head in embarrassment before speaking.

“I'm very sorry to be the bearer of bad news, Your Majesty, but your consort was kidnapped during a riot for the liberation of Monrad.”

“Wait...,” Anna murmured, puzzled, “he was what?” she then cried out, and in her typical but richly unroyal manner, grabbed Einar by the collar and shook him. Einar was surprised at the strength his queen developed in the process, glaring at him wickedly.

“I am so sorry, but there was nothing we could do about it, Your Majesty. Monrad's daughter Stella has somehow managed to get His Highness .... er, His Majesty, a knife to the throat and ...” but that was as far as Einar got when Anna flew into a rage and slapped him hard across the face, clapping loudly.

“You could very well have done something about it by preventing her from getting that close to him in the first place! It’s your damn job Einar!” she shouted at him and was about to slap him again, when Elsa intervened.

“Anna, please, control yourself and calm down, because this is going nowhere and won’t help Kristoff in any way,” she said with both hands on her sister's shoulders and whispered in her ear “People are already peeking, Anna. You just have humiliated our captain in public. Remember your place, you are their queen! Let's find a solution together, sis, but not here at the harbour.”

Then she turned to Einar and Mitya, ”I am sorry, Captain. Please tell us both exactly what happened and what you did afterwards. And please let us all go into the castle together first, because we are in the way of the medical team,” she said with a nod to the carriages beside her and the waiting staff behind them.

~~~

youtube

They rode very fast and had Kristoff in their midst so that he would not get any stupid ideas. No one spoke a word and they seemed to have planned their escape route carefully; he thought as he pondered their possible destination.

“Where do you think you are going? You should know that there is no escape. They will find you everywhere, by land and by sea.”

As Kristoff spoke, a wave of increasing anger rose in Stella as her body shook with rage and she muttered quietly to herself, “Just shut up ...”

Kristoff, of course, could not hear her and continued unperturbed, “Einar will move heaven and hell. And then just imagine what will happen when the ARN Crocus returns with the queen, her sister and the whole army on board. They'll hunt you all down without mercy,” he shouted at full gallop, causing Stella to turn to face him in her saddle.

“As if we didn't know this ourselves, but if you keep talking bullshit, I might still consider trading you for ransom and sending the finger with the engagement ring to your beloved Anna as proof. What better way to avenge my father's humiliation than to deprive Her Majesty of her happiness? So, don't make me do it and shut the hell up now!” she countered angrily and turned around again.

Kristoff swallowed and decided not to say another word because he believed his kidnapper, after all that had happened, to be capable of anything.

Reinhard and her father looked at Stella in amazement, but said nothing, preferring to concentrate on their escape route. They didn't have much of a head start, that was clear to all of them, and before they rode off they had also heard the alarm bell, no doubt announcing the arrival of the war ship. Reinhard estimated that they had maybe an hour out before their pursuers picked up the scent and His Highness had to get rid of them too. Reinhard led them through the woods behind the farmland, always heading southwest and away from any settlements. But long before they reached their true destination, he signalled everyone to stop. A few meters ahead was a rather run-down looking forest hut.

“End of the line for our Highness,” he said and dismounted. “As Stella has promised you, we are not interested in you, Your Highness. You have served your purpose as a hostage.”

“So I may go now?” asked Kristoff, still sitting in the saddle.

“Not quite, lad. May I present your new castle for a while up ahead,” Reinhard replied, pointing to the hut. “Did you not believe we were let you ride back to the capital with our steed, did you? I'm afraid we'll have to tie you up there, but with some luck you'll be able to free yourself within half a day.”

“You can't be serious!”

“You bet he is, dearie. Now dismount, please. Or do I have to help in the process?” Stella commented.

Kristoff grumbled as he finally got off his horse. What choice did he have. But at least he knew the area and would find his way out here, albeit with a very long walk ahead of him. They led him inside the hut, sat him against a board wall and tied his hands behind his back.

“What if I can't free myself? I would die of thirst and starvation here. Do you want to risk that? That would be murder, not just high treason in your crime’s list.”

“Don't be so melodramatic, pal. Look, the rope is not too thick and the edges of the boards are rough. You can wear through the rope with a little effort, no problem at all. But we can also slip someone a few coins tomorrow and send him here to look after you and free you. Satisfied?”

Kristoff was by no means satisfied, but he nodded mutely and surrendered to his fate.

“Well then, farewell,” Reinhard said, making a casual salute with his index finger to his forehead and leaving the hut again with the two other men who had come in with him.

Outside, the others waited at an appropriate distance for an undisturbed conversation. Stella was finally in her father's arms with tears in her eyes.

“You two should put this off until later, because we're not safe yet and the road is long,” Reinhard said as he joined them.

“Where are you taking us anyway? Judging by the direction, the Kaskader Mountains are further south, but our friend here had to flee from Thord's estate, so that can't be our real destination, right? Little feint for our Highness, then?” said Monrad as he broke away from his daughter, who rubbed her face and looked at Reinhard with equal curiosity.

“As always, there is no fooling you, Grand Master Monrad, and well spotted, the feint. Her Highness will think so now, but we are riding in a completely different direction.

“Where to then?” asked Stella.

“East, across the national border to the Kingdom of Vassar,” Reinhard returned with a grin. “There we have some allies who will support us with whatever we need. After that, we will travel comfortably by carriage south to the coast and take the next ship to Brinnon. Presumably Prince Thord will be on his way there too, if he is still alive.”

“Brinnon? I've heard of that big island, but don't know much about it. What is it like there?” asked Stella.

“It is a very modern country with a very old monarchy and you would be amazed at many things there. It was my home so many years ago, until his Highness Thord Kaskader, found me and gave my life a purpose, a reason to fight for,” enthused Reinhard, “if we can make it there. Let's not waste any more time now. I'll tell you more about it on the way.”

~~~

youtube

“I'm deeply sorry, Captain Einar, I completely overreacted,” Anna said, putting an arm around his shoulder in friendship as they strode across the castle bridge. “I should not have slapped you, I had no right whatsoever to do so, much less in front of your men.” She cast a quick glance behind her.

The guards following them, who had witnessed her emotional outburst earlier, were now gaining a new impression. Einar was obviously back in the queen's favour which was good for the troop’s morale.

“Can you forgive me?” asked Anna.

Einar looked her in the eye and finally nodded. “There is nothing to forgive, Your Majesty. My loyalty lies to Arendelle, and with your house, until the end of my days.”

“Captain Einar could indeed do nothing,” interjected Mitya, who was walking beside them with Elsa. “They aimed crossbows at Kristoff, Captain Einar and me. It's hard to imagine if the situation had escalated. There would have been many deaths and Her Highness could have been shot as well. That Stella deceived us all skilfully and no one had seen her act coming in their wildest dreams.”

“I understand it now, but we must now hurry to find out where they are going and give chase at once. Kristoff must be saved at all costs. We must interrogate the insurgents and finally dismantle Thord's spy network. One of them must know something,” Anna stated.

“Well, this is already in full swing,” Einar replied, making a sweeping arm motion as they entered the castle courtyard. The first look was astonishing. The area was packed with Arendellian royal guards members in every corner, armed with crossbows, awaiting orders. While on the center of the square was full of many chained civilians. “See for yourself. One by one, our interrogators are taking them to be questioned thoroughly. Besides, Princess Mari has been working for days to identify all the spies and the initial step has already been taken. It can only be a matter of hours until her special forces and our men strike the final and devastating blow against this gang.”

“I see… well, try to speed things up and apply a little more pressure, Einar. These people have undoubtedly been bribed and must be able to describe the ones who hired them. Find out everything, every little detail that can help us,” Anna ordered, “Make them realise that they can be charged with treason for their uprising. And one more thing. As far as we know, the main objective of this revolt was the liberation of Osvald Monrad, right? Okay, for extreme measures, extreme deeds. From now, all of Monrad’s family can be involved in the conspiracy until it’s proved otherwise. Captain Einar, I want you to pick the most trusted men and arrest Osvald’s younger brother, Albert. As far as i know, he is a famous wine merchant. I want you to storm his business and bring him into the castle for interrogation.”

“Will do, Your Majesty, and I am also putting together a search party with trackers now that the soldiers have returned. The town will also be sealed off and searched. The kidnappers won't get far,” Einar confirmed, saluted and immediately set to work.

Shortly afterwards, the sisters were alone and entered Anna's study. Anna could no longer help herself and let go, let the tears flow and began to sob unrestrainedly.

“Oh Anna ...,” Elsa said softly and took her comfortingly in her arms. “We will find him, I promise you. I'll send Gale to look for him, as he knows Kristoff well. He'll be fine, because he's a valuable hostage to them.”

“I hope you're right, Sis, because I don't know what I'll do if I lose him. I love him, Elsa. So much ...”

“I know, Anna, I know.”

Then Elsa closed her eyes and mentally connected with Gale, explaining the situation and sending the nature spirit on a quest.

~~~

In the meantime, all the wounded had been taken from the ARN Crocus to the hospital, which Sorenson had temporarily set up in a house near the harbour. The medical team had their hands full and fortunately there were no further casualties. Myrtha and the Northuldra, who were on board, worked non-stop to make their special healing ointments.

The fallen soldiers and men of the militia were placed in a barely used outbuilding of the barracks north of the city and laid out there. Their relatives were to be allowed to say goodbye to them before they were buried in the next few days. However, before that, Elsa would use her ice magic to ensure that the building was cooled down enough to stop the decomposition of the bodies until the funeral. It would probably take days until they were all buried according to tradition and with all military honours. Something like this had never happened in Arendelle before and the queen had to make a decision soon.

Ryder and Indu had also been on board the Crocus and now returned to Captain Einar to report. Eventually Indu was released from Ryder's supervision and was free. He was now allowed to move about as a free man without supervision.

A little later, when the search parties were assembled, Captain Søren led one of them with his soldiers and a few others, on the way back to his home, Snoob in the south of Arendelle.

Once the town was sealed off, Princess Mari's special force could finally strike. Einar had been right in his suspicions and they were able to capture a man carrying the secret identification mark and successfully infiltrate with his cooperation. Shortly afterwards their headquarters were found and excavated. No one was able to escape. All prisoners and traitors to the royal house would have to serve a long prison sentence and would soon be taken with the ARN Crocus to the naval base and from there to the nearby prison.

So far, everything was back to normal in the capital and almost everyone could breathe again. Almost everyone, because Anna, the Queen of Arendelle was still missing someone. Unfortunately, there was still no clue as to Kristoff's whereabouts and the traces were lost somewhere in the dense forests behind Gøntropp.

Anna sat slumped on a bench in the gallery, in tears. Elsa sat next to her and had an arm around her shoulder. She had tried everything to comfort and cheer her up, to give her courage and hope, but Anna was inconsolable.

When almost everyone in the castle had given up hope and already suspected the worst, something happened that no one expected.

Shortly before dawn, a lone horseman came riding down the mountain road. As soon as he passed the clock tower and the city guards realised who it was, they immediately formed an escort for him and led him to the castle. Many citizens also joined in and clapped.

As soon as they were all over the castle bridge and entered the courtyard, the excitement was unstoppable and cheers went up, reaching all the way into the gallery. Anna lifted her head in surprise, looked briefly at Elsa and ran off as best as she could by her leg injury.

As soon as Anna spotted Kristoff in the crowd getting off his horse, she screamed with joy and called out to him. As soon as Kristoff heard her voice, he ran towards her. They met at the bottom step to the castle entrance and Anna jumped off from there at a full run and straight into Kristoff's arms. He almost fell over backwards but managed to catch himself in time.

Elsa had been a little slower than Anna and had just come to watch everything, including how the two were currently kissing passionately. She breathed a sigh of relief and was happy for them.

After a minute or two, he lowered Anna back down just as Elsa stepped up to their side, smirking as she watched her sister circle him and search him thoroughly for any injuries.

“No harm done darling, I'm fine,” he laughed at her probing touch.

“I'm so glad you're okay,” Anna said, another tear running down her cheek as he hugged her. “You can't imagine how I felt when I found out about you being taken away. I almost died worrying about you, darling.”

“How did you escape them anyway, Kristoff? And where did you get the horse?” asked Elsa, “Hardly from your captors, are you?”

“That's right. I borrowed the horse from a nice local resident in Gøntropp after running across the forest for a long time,” he explained. “You see, they left me tied up in a run-down, half-ruined forest hut.”

“Tied up in a lonely forest hut? My God, if no one had discovered you there, then ... I mean, several search parties have been out for hours and Elsa even sent Gale out to look for you, but how did you manage to free yourself in the first place?” asked Anna.

“Well, there was one thing they didn't count on and I almost didn't think of it myself, I've become so used to having it with me. Hang on, I'll show you both ...”

Kristoff bent down and reached into his boot to pull something out. “It's a good thing they didn't search me, because I was able to cut myself loose with it.” He held up a folding knife with a grin and Anna's eyes widened.

“How long have you had a knife in your boot?” she asked.

“Oh, for half an eternity. You never know what you might need one of these for.”

“Very crafty, my dear, that was indeed your salvation.”

“Do you have any idea where they escaped to?” asked Elsa, but Kristoff just shrugged.

“Sadly, no, and they almost didn't talk to each other on the way, probably for fear I might pick up on something. But they didn't mistreat me most of the time and that Reinhard guy was going to send someone round the next day to rescue me. Still, the whole thing wasn't pleasant and I'm glad to be back here ... especially with you, Anna.”

They fell into each other's arms again.

“Actually, there's only one direction to go,” Elsa said, “but it's already too late to find them now.”

“What do you mean, Elsa?” asked Anna.

“I'm thinking of the border with Vassar. If they actually made it there, that's it. But let us think of other things now, for there is much to do and prepare. Not least your official marriage and not just yours. Come, let's go inside and discuss everything. I have some ideas and I'm curious what you think about them. And besides, I'm getting hungry.”

“Very good idea, sis, it's easier to plan on a full stomach.”

They all laughed and went inside the castle. Kristoff waved behind him once more before they disappeared inside and the crowd in the castle courtyard began to disperse in a happy mood.

~~~

---

Note: Starting with next week I go into a longer hiatus to write the end of the novel.

Tagging: @karma26 @true--north @annaofthenorthernlights @the-fifth-spirit-elsa @dronning-formynder05

#frozen #frozen2 #frozen3 #fanfic #epic novel #the broken bridge #part four #chapter 69 #bigfrozenfan

16 notes · View notes

bigfrozenfan-fanfics · 1 year

Text

I will be a bit late today but i’m just preparing the posting of the next chapter which will take one hour or so. So please stay tuned...

#frozen3 #the broken bridge #next chapter is delayed

4 notes · View notes

bigfrozenfan-fanfics · 1 year

Text

Chapter 68 - Stella’s deed of resistance - part I

Links: Chapter overview, Character list, Map, Glossar Rating: M over all Publishing cycle: every third Friday at 6:00 pm CEST dst/UTC +2:00 on (link)

youtube

While almost everyone in Arendelle prayed about the success of Anna's Royal Army, others hoped for that Prince Thord would be victorious and that a new king would soon rule over Arendelle. Especially his followers and Monrad's people were among them, fuelling doubts about Anna's ability to rule the kingdom everywhere and at every opportunity that presented itself.

Therefore, for almost three days, the mood in the capital had deteriorated even further than it already was. Moreover, some of the ringleaders had somehow managed to bribe a man in the printing office and printed leaflets and posters during the night spreading propaganda about the Royal House and their young regent. The next morning these were displayed all over the city and could not be missed by anyone in the population. Groups formed in front of them and there was heated discussion and argument. The Castle Guard patrols tore down all the posters everywhere as soon as they became aware of them and searched the whole city for more. But it was already too late and almost everyone had already read the pamphlet.

Sometimes, as a result, fierce brawls broke out in the taverns in the evenings, when heated tempers clashed in a drunken state. Often enough, this even happened on the open street and many a blameless citizen no longer dared to go about his usual daily routine at certain times of the day and even avoided certain parts of the city.

Therefore, the Castle Guards had their hands full in quelling the riots and this eventually reached Kristoff's ears. Meanwhile, Einar had tripled the guard in the castle because he feared that there might even be attacks within the castle grounds. During a short but intense conversation, both agreed that the radicals had to be found and arrested as soon as possible. Both were glad that the special unit from Vesterland was helping them, but it was not easy to gain access to the inner circles of the insurgents, as they learned from them during an interim report. It would take time.

Princess Mari, the daughter of King Jonas, had taken up residence in the castle because many people would probably recognize her because of her visits to the city at that time, and she certainly did not want anyone to get the idea that a high-ranking personality from Vesterland was currently in the city with an entourage. This would possibly put the whole mission in danger. Therefore, she read a lot in the library, talked with Olina in the kitchen, who she watched making her chocolate pralines, and waited for the next report from her men. Of course, she was also in regular contact with Kristoff because of this and had told him about her meeting with Anna and Elsa when she arrived and about her father's plan.

His special unit deliberately mingled with the citizens in the city, where inflammatory speeches were repeatedly heard, and noted every face of those who expressed their displeasure the loudest. However, they soon discovered that things were much quieter underground, that people whispered among themselves in secret and that certain signs were exchanged just when the situation was favourable to cause a small commotion.

A small object caught the eye of three of them on one occasion when a stranger with worn clothes entered the tavern and headed straight for the group they were watching right now. He showed them this small something that appeared to be a coin or a pendant, stowed it away as quickly as he had brought it out and sat down with them. None of Mari's men had a chance to see what exactly it was, but it was clearly a secret identifying mark known only to initiates. They looked at each other knowingly, for now they had identified part of Thord's agents. Only they did not yet know how many they were dealing with and where their headquarters were, if they had one.

These people were clever, well-organized and skillfully kept themselves hidden. It was therefore very difficult to infiltrate them, because one thing had quickly become clear to the special unit, there was great distrust of anyone who wanted to ingratiate themselves with them and offer his help. They could sometimes clearly observe this and therefore decided to just observe for the time being, to follow them secretly and gather information. But once they had this distinctive mark with them, it would change everything.

The three of them left the tavern again that evening to meet up with the others and exchange any news. One of them also had to inform the princess. A first big step had been taken.

~~~

The day Stella had to leave her home forever and the front door was sealed, she went to her uncle's house down the hill, right by the harbour. But it was not only his residence, it was Arendelle's most prestigious wine merchant and known far beyond the city limits by all the nobles of the country. Even the Royal Castle had been among his customers for years.

Stella had sometimes accompanied her father there, but mostly he didn't want her around. “Boring business,” he used to say to her, suggesting that she should go out riding or visit friends. However, Stella did not have many friends or wanted little to do with the daughters and sons of the nobles. She found them mostly boring but always too pushy and too curious. Besides, she couldn't feel as superior to them as she did to the commoners in town when she went shopping there.

Stella had high standards and enjoyed bossing others around until she got exactly what she wanted. This included clothes, jewellery, dishes in the more upmarket restaurants and many other things. Stella wanted the exclusive and her extra requests got on most people's nerves pretty quickly. But they didn't grumble, because as the daughter of a high-ranking royal councillor, no one dared open their mouths to her.

A few years ago, she sneaked after her father to her uncle's house one evening. She was curious to know what business he had there and who he was meeting with. She hid behind the harbour wall and saw some strangely dressed people get out of a rowboat at the jetty and walk to the entrance of the house, where they were smilingly greeted with hand shakes and shoulder slaps by Uncle Albert and her father before disappearing inside. Stella had never seen the sovereign sign on the rowing boat before and it was also on the flag of a large brig in the harbour. Unfortunately, that was all she could find out at the time, but one thing had become clear to her today as she strode down the serpentine path, lost in thought.

There had to be no more secrets from her from now on! Uncle Albert had to tell her the truth today. About everything that had been kept from her all these years and especially about why her father was accused of high treason!

~~~

youtube

“Hello, Uncle Albert,” she greeted a bearded man as he opened the front door. The greying beard made him look older than he really was, for his brother Oswald was the older of the two with a little over three years difference.

He nodded with a sad expression and pulled the door wide open for her to come in.

“Come in, Stella, I've already heard. It's unfortunate and I'm so sorry for you that you have to leave your parents' house and are now practically standing on the street. It's so unfair what was done to you and your father,” he said as she walked past him and waited behind him until he closed the door again. Then, in surprise, she fell around his neck and could no longer hold back her tears.

He stroked her back somewhat restrainedly and let her do so wordlessly for minutes. It was not often that they were so close and it was most unusual for him to have someone crying on his shoulder. Finally, she disengaged herself again and wiped the tears from her face while he put his hand on her shoulder reassuringly.

“Come, let's go into the good room and talk about everything, shall we? Are you hungry? I can make you some soup warm or do you prefer cold with bread and cheese?”

“That's all right, I can't 'bring anything down at the moment anyway. Later, maybe,” she said as she followed him into the living room, looking around curiously.

The house was tastefully decorated and there were many pictures all over the wall, some showing areas and people from other countries. Her uncle must have travelled far, she realized. She stopped in front of two of the pictures in amazement because the facial features of the men of different ages on them were clearly those of her uncle. One was a photograph, no more than maybe five years old, but the other was a full portrait painted in oil paint, showing him young and with long blond hair. He looked exquisitely handsome then; she thought so.

“Are you coming?” he called from the living room and she broke away from the sight.

“I'm sorry for my emotional outburst just now, but there was just too much building up inside me and I'm glad I'm with you now,” she said as she entered.

“You can stay with me for now, my dear, until you find a new home. Don't worry, I will support you and help in any way I can. I promised your father that a long time ago, should something happen one day.

She sat down next to him on a comfortable-looking sofa, but it was harder than it appeared at first glance. On the waxed and brightly polished wooden table in front of it was an open bottle of white wine with beads of condensation running down from it and a half-filled tall glass beside it.

“May I have a glass of wine too, Uncle?”

“Sure, but please just call me Albert, you're almost of age now with your twenty years and old enough to just call me by my first name.”

She watched him pull out a fresh glass for her from a glass case on the opposite wall, where all sorts of rare-looking drinking vessels were gathered, and poured her one. She first took a careful sip of the cold drink and then finished it in one go.

“There, there, little one, don't be in such a hurry. You have to drink white wine slowly and enjoy it, especially this noble variety,” he said, shaking his head. “But I can well understand how you must be feeling at the moment.”

“I hardly think so, Albert,” she said with a convinced chest tone and serious expression as she gave herself another refill. “I cleared out father's desk yesterday after visiting him in the dungeon, and put everything in a safe place that I think might incriminate him more. I read some of the letters this morning and I just don’t understand a lot of them. I want answers, Albert! I want to know why they accused father of treason, expelled him for life, confiscated everything that belonged to us and put me out on the street. They have destroyed our existence and I now want to know what father has kept from me all these years, why he met secretly with strangers at your place so often in the evenings and always came home in the middle of the night. I demand answers at last and I believe you can give them all to me, because I am convinced that you know exactly what has been going on in the last few years ... uncle.” She emphasized the last word and looked him demandingly in the face.

Albert had expected her to be upset, perhaps even desperate, and to have many questions, but then her well-considered, angry torrent of words surprised him a little and he just stared at her for seconds. Most of all, he was surprised that she seemed to know about the meeting with the others. He just wondered who she had seen, because he also got frequent visits from his overseas partners about the wine trade. He was thinking about what he could confide in her and what was better not to, when she already beat him to it.

“I would do anything to get Father released. Really anything! It's not lost on me what's going on in town, Albert, and I think you know something about it or even have connections with these people. Am I right?”

Now he was really speechless. Did she know something concrete, perhaps from Osvald's correspondence, that connected him to this, or was she just guessing into the blue? She seemed so determined and he hardly recognized her. He had to be careful.

“What makes you think that, Stella? Let's be honest, this is not something you should pursue. It's very dangerous. Try to make the best of your situation and start building your own, a new future for yourself. That's what your father would have wanted.”

She shook her head, “No! I want to help dad and free him and if you don't help me, I'll find the people responsible for everything myself.”

Albert sighed and shook his head slightly in annoyance. Stella was such a stubborn hardhead and if she went off on her own to find answers it could be very dangerous, and not just for her.

“All right,” he began, “but you have to promise me on your honour that everything I'm about to tell you will remain secret and between us at all costs. Promise me that!”

Stella was excited. She knew it; she thought there was more at work here than met the eye. She leaned forward and stared at him expectantly as she nodded vigorously in reply, “Promise!”

“I don't know how much you know about the Royal House, about the developments there after King Runeard died and his son Agnarr took the throne as soon as he was of age. Nor do I know what or if my brother has told you about his activities in the Council. For many years there has been a secret movement against the current monarchs and the reason for this is how arbitrarily the council members are dealt with. Does the name Kaskader mean anything to you?”

Stella shook her head and Albert continued, “King Agnarr then dismissed Harald Kaskader, one of the most important council members of all, and stripped him of all rights. Even though he did so much for the Royal House. He was the big financier, ever since he worked with Runeard, and it was he who financed the old king's plans in the background and made them possible in the first place. But since Agnarr came to power and married a commoner instead of the princess intended for him, and a Northuldra to boot, as it turned out years later, everything just changed for the Kaskader clan.”

“But what does all this have to do with father?” asked Stella uncomprehendingly.

“Your father had known House Kaskader for years and closely worked with them. Besides, he managed to rally other councilors to the cause, those who were equally shocked at what was going on in the Royal House. I don't know exactly what happened on the day he was imprisoned, because they wouldn't let me through to him. I guess you were luckier than me there, his own brother.”

He took a deep breath before continuing, “For thirteen long years, no one knew exactly what was going on in the castle, for the gates remained locked. Agnarr rarely showed himself outside and he was different. When, after his death and the coronation of his daughter Elsa, it finally came out that she had magical powers, this fact broke the camel's back for many of our group. Then when she abdicated without a word last year and made her sister, three years younger, queen, we had enough.”

“So that's the reason for all the unrest and war?” asked Stella and he swayed his head.

“Not only that, Stella, it is more complex and much has happened in the last few days entirely through no fault of our own. Surely then the name Thord won't mean anything to you either, will it?” Again she answered in the negative. “He is the legitimate heir to the throne of Arendelle according to all the old agreements and promises King Runeard made to Harald Kaskader, his father. Crucial to this was his arranged marriage to Ingrid of Arendelle, making Thord a true prince.”

Albert and Stella continued to discuss for over two hours and a picture slowly began to form in Stella's mind. A new understanding of the events since her childhood developed and slowly it all began to make sense to her. Now she also understood father's secrecy and she realized the explosive nature behind the current situation.

“I will send a message to our group and ask that you meet them. Provided if you are really comitted and they agree, you will be initiated and will have to swear a sacred oath in front of everyone present. If you broke it, you risk your life! Do you understand that? So you must be one hundred percent clear that there is no way back for you afterwards. Therefore, decide wisely, my child. Nothing is decided yet.”

Stella thought for a long time as she leaned back and folded her arms in front of her. A gesture she often made when faced with a problem. And this one was the mother of all problems, so to speak. She bit her lower lip and glanced quickly at Albert, who was watching her with a grin. He seemed to know her well, so she guessed that father must have told him a lot about her. She believed her uncle and admired the courage her father must have had, after all she now knew. And that seemed to be only a small part of what soon awaited her, should she choose that path.

“My father's freedom and us being a family again is the most important thing to me ..., so yes! I'll go along with whatever,” she exclaimed.

“Are you really certain?” asked Albert again, just to be sure, and only received the confirmation he was already expecting. “All right.” He stood up, went to another shelf and opened a drawer to take out a small silver object. He also fetched ink and a quill and sat down with it on the sofa again.

He opened the small container, a sealable tube containing many narrow slips of paper, and pulled one out. Then he began to write a few sentences on it in very tiny handwriting.

“What are you doing? Isn't this a bit too small for a message?”

Albert laughed. “Not if you use carrier pigeons to send secret messages that no one will know about.”

Now it was Stella who was speechless. She had not expected this at all.

“There is a small pigeon loft on the roof and the answer should not be long in coming,” he explained. “Should they agree, I will describe to you how to get to the secret meeting place.”

Then from the lid of the tube he took out a tiny stamp, with which he marked the message as genuine at the end. Stella was impressed and now couldn't wait.

“Aren't you coming?” she asked.

“I can't, dear. I'm expecting another wine delivery by ship later today and I have to stay in the house. I'm sorry, but you'll find it.”

She nodded and excitedly poured herself another glass of the delicious white wine, surprised to find that it made a big difference in taste whether you drank it cold or at room temperature, for it had already warmed up. Her uncle obviously spared no expense and effort and had to store a lot of ice somewhere in the cellar for his trade goods.

~~~

youtube

At the castle, Kristoff had already become a little closer to the Vakretta ambassador over dinners and other encounters and in the last few days they chatted about various peculiarities in the two kingdoms and how it was to live there. They both raved about many things to each other and became enthusiastic about their counterpart's stories. Kai had picked out all the documents about the previous trade agreements with Vakretta for Kristoff two days ago and Kristoff sat in Anna's study in the evening to work through them. After all, no dispatch rider had yet returned to deliver Anna's reply to his letter to her. So Kristoff had to try to find answers by himself.

In the end, his endeavour was crowned with success and he came to an agreement with the ambassador. However, when Mitya wanted to look around the city alone, Kristoff inevitably had to tell him the truth about the current situation after all, because on the one hand he could hardly keep him away from the city stroll and on the other hand Mitya would have found out about everything there at the latest. Besides, the current situation in the city was far too risky for the ambassador. It was unthinkable what diplomatic consequences would ensue if something happened to Mitya.

Kristoff also wanted to make sure that the wrong people did not inform the ambassador. He had therefore invited him to the castle garden for some specialities of sweets and good wine. As they sat on the bench under the big, venerable willow tree, Kristoff began to talk about the threat from the beginning and also where the queen and her sister were. It became a very long conversation and Mitya became increasingly concerned about the well-being of the royal sisters, whom he had known well for years.

Kristoff also told him that yesterday a special intervention force of the Royal Guard returned from their mission with a confiscated carriage, many prisoners and boxes of documents from the Kaskader mansion probably responsible for the current unrest.

“Since we are talking so openly about everything, Sir Ambassador, there is something else you could help the Royal House with immensely,” Kristoff began a little unsteadily, nervously sliding around on the bench.

Mitya looked at him expectantly, “Provided it is within my power, very gladly, Your Highness. What is it about?”

“Well, we currently have two high traitors sitting in the castle dungeon who were expelled from the country for life. It would be very obliging of you indeed, and helpful to the queen, if you would take the two of them in the brig of your ship and put them in a place where they won't do much more harm and from where they won't be able to escape so easily.”

Mitya nodded in understanding, thought long and hard while taking a sip of the fine red wine, which made Kristoff think that the ambassador might refuse. But Mitya finally agreed to the delicate request. He was happy to help without asking for anything in return.

“I will be thrilled to assist the queen in this matter, Your Highness. I was thinking about which place would be best for the two of them and I think I already know where,” Mitya finally replied and Kristoff breathed a sigh of relief.

“That will certainly reassure Anna and Elsa and make them very happy. Thank you very much, Ambassador Mitya.”

~~~

Wael, of course, as a former reporter, knew quite a bit about the castle. There was only one dungeon below the watchtower and the last time he was in here, he was alone and had the already small room all to himself. But this time he had been very surprised, firstly because there was now a second cot in it and secondly because he immediately recognized the new inmate sitting on it.

That had been several days ago now and apart from the obligatory greeting when he entered, they had hardly exchanged a word since then. Monrad ignored him as much as he could and when he looked at him, it was always with a haughty, almost contemptuous expression. Wael was already used to this kind of behaviour towards him from other councillors, because they undoubtedly could not stand his way of asking questions and his stubbornness.

But now he and one of the former highest-ranking council members were sitting together in a prison cell for treason and would soon share the same fate and be expelled from the country. Wael felt quite uncomfortable in this elitist society, so he found such behaviour as before simply ridiculous and who knows, maybe they would even have to spend their future together, as prisoners in another country. At some point, the mutual silence simply became too much for Wael. He began to express his thoughts freely, leaning forward casually with his elbows propped on his knees and his hands clasped together as he looked Monrad straight in the face.

“What do you think of this? Am I not right about this? We are in the same boat and we should at least be able to talk normally, help each other if possible,” he finally said.

Monrad had listened to him equanimously without looking at him, only raising one of his bushy eyebrows now and then and even nodding once almost imperceptibly. Finally, after Wael's last words, he sighed and looked him in the eye.

“Don't think we can become friends, Wael, our differences were and are simply too great for that. Apart from the fact that I simply don't like you. But basically you are right. We are in the same boat together and will be very soon in the truest sense of the word. So I accept your offer for the time being and realise that perhaps I should change my behaviour towards you ...,” he admitted in his dark voice, adding after a second “... at least for the time being.”

Wael smiled contentedly and nodded, leaning back against the wall behind his cot. That had just been a pure torrent of words from Monrad, he thought.

“I thank you and I am very glad to have someone to talk to in the time ahead. I've had the same thoughts running through my head for days now, and I still can't believe how stupid and presumptuous I was to believe that this Thord would have helped me to create a new future for myself in Arendelle. Instead, I was only used and abused by him for his own purposes and machinations. That's what I get for it now.”

Monrad pricked up his ears as soon as Wael spoke that name and looked at Wael with narrowed eyebrows. But he didn't want to follow up just yet, because on the one hand Wael might say more about it of his own accord and on the other hand he might react dismissively as soon as he learned that he and his people were Thord's allies. It was better to keep a low profile in this matter; Monrad reasoned. But Wael stopped telling and instead put on a tearful face. It was clear to see that his mind was suddenly elsewhere.

“What happened?” asked Monrad finally after some silence.

Wael raised his head, glad to have found someone to pour his soul out to. He sighed and began to tell it from the beginning.

“As you can see, I bet on the wrong horse and I deeply regret my decisions,” Wael ended after barely an hour, without being interrupted once by Monrad. “You are, after all, one of the most respected members of the council ... may I therefore ask why you were actually condemned?” he added curiously at the end.

“You may,” Monrad returned monosyllabically, glancing to the side and not speaking another word.

Wael was taken aback by this reaction and went through the possibilities in his mind of what could have happened for a high ranking council member to end up in the dungeon for treason, but came up with no coherent conclusion. He had better leave Monrad alone, for he was well aware of how it was working in him and how Monrad's cheekbones twitched nervously as he ground his teeth.

~~~

youtube

Stella rode her horse Nanna along the almost overgrown path near the southern farmland, just as her uncle had described it. Her destination was a deserted and long abandoned estate of a lord, which according to Albert was only a stone ruin that no one was interested in anymore. Deep inside there was supposed to be a cellar vault that served as a secret meeting place for this group. Stella was very curious about these people and was a little nervous because she probably didn't know any of them. Were they dangerous? How would they deal with her and what was waiting for her there? But Stella shook these thoughts away, because she trusted Albert and had a clear goal in mind, which she hoped she could achieve with the help of this group. It was her best chance and therefore she began to smile as she gave Nanna the spurs and let the wind blow through her long hair.

After a little over half an hour she reached the estate and was surprised to see how desolate the remains of the once large building looked, in the middle of nowhere, with half overgrown collapsed walls. The lord who once owned it must have put a lot of money into it. Most houses she knew had only a brick cellar, the rest a wooden structure, but this one had once been all stone up to the roof. She rode closer, dismounted just before it and tied the horse's bridle to a crippled bush that had also seen better days. Everything here seemed grey and withered, somehow eerie. It was dead quiet and she didn't even hear any birds chirping.

She looked around one last time and climbed over the remains of the roof beams to get inside. The ceiling had collapsed and she had to climb over rubble for a while until she saw the half-dark opening of a vault in front of her, from which the flickering of torches could be seen further back. She was not alone and hesitated briefly before advancing deeper.

“You are undoubtedly Stella, I recognise you,” said a soft male voice suddenly from behind her and she wheeled around, startled. “But I suspect you won't remember me from when I visited you in your house years ago.”

The older man had approached perfectly silently and she was annoyed at her carelessness in not behaving more cautiously. She stared at him, sizing up his appearance with quick glances. He was smartly dressed, wore riding boots and had an athletic figure. Moreover, he was armed and carried a long rapier at his side.

“Sorry to have startled you so. I was leaning against the wall there waiting for you. My name is Reinhard and I am an old friend of your father's,” he introduced himself with a gallant bow and Stella breathed a sigh of relief.

He held out his hand to her and she shook it, studying his face. He smirked.

“Come along, the other members are already waiting for you,” he said and went ahead, deeper into the darkness.

She followed him cautiously and slowly it became brighter in front of her. Five torches cast their flickering glow on a group of eight men of different ages who sat casually along a wall ledge, looking curiously at her. Some raised their eyebrows appreciatively as they recognized her youth and saw her distinguished, appealing appearance.

“I'll introduce you to everyone here first,” Reinhard said, calling each person's name in turn. “Normally we are not so open to newcomers, but you are Monrad's daughter and we trust Albert's judgement,” he continued. “We know what happened and we are all truly sorry. Your father is and was an important member and friend for us and without him we would most likely never have got together. But first, why don't you tell us why you sought our contact and why you want to join us?”

Stella took a deep breath, for on the one hand everyone here seemed quite nice and seemed far less threatening than she feared, and on the other hand she gathered her thoughts to present her request with the appropriate seriousness. She began to tell what she had experienced in the last few days, about her situation and her visit to her father. She grew angrier towards the end and raised her voice, which echoed dryly in the vault.

“They can't take my father out of the country! He has raised me since my mother died unexpectedly when I was born. I never got to meet her and only have an old painting of her. Father is all I have and I want him back. I am willing to do anything to help free him. Really anything ...,” she finished a little quieter with a sad undertone.

She couldn't stop a tear from rolling out of her eye and running down her cheek, although she had sworn to herself to appear as strong as possible and not to start crying like a little girl. Especially not in front of these men! She quickly wiped her face, stretched and lifted her head defiantly.

For a minute or two there was complete silence and the men exchanged meaningful glances among themselves. Many nodded and looked sympathetically at Stella. Reinhard, still standing next to her, gently put a hand on her shoulder.

“We've been tinkering with the problem ever since we knew about the conviction, Stella. I think I can speak for all of us here in admiring your courage and determination, but seriously ... you're still so young, barely an adult, and if we find a solution, the whole thing could get pretty ugly. So I don't think it would be a good idea to have you there. Especially because you are Monrad's daughter. He would kill us all if we put you in such great danger and I am sure your uncle has already spoken to your conscience. We are sorry, but we must therefore decline.”

Stella looked first at him and then at everyone else. Some shrugged regretfully, others nodded wordlessly in agreement. The decision was made and was unanimous. Stella was stunned. But then the deep anger inside her slowly rose again and finally boiled over.

In a flash, she snatched the rapier from its scabbard on Reinhard's weapon belt, jumped back a step and pointed the tip of the weapon at each of those present around her, who jumped up in fright and automatically grabbed the hilt of their own rapier, but did not bare it. Finally she pointed at Reinhard, who could only stare at her in complete surprise.

“No! Never! I'm not the little girl you think I am!” she cried. “I swore to free father and I'm ready to fight! He taught me how to fence. I know how to use it. Why don't you test me if you want!”

“I believe you,” Reinhard said after a few seconds, “but now give me back my rapier already. Come on, give it to me.”

Stella hesitated and considered, but in the end she didn't have much choice, because she was up against eight armed men who only didn't act because she was Monrad's daughter. Or maybe it was because they saw no danger in her. Finally, she lowered the weapon, skilfully turned it around and held it out to Reinhard, hilt first.

He accepted the rapier and thrust it back into the scabbard with force and slightly annoyed with himself. Then he looked Stella in the eye and soon nodded thoughtfully.

“I would ask you to wait outside, Stella. We need to confer.”

She realized she had to follow his instruction and left the vault for the daylight, looking around her every now and then. What would they decide? she asked herself and sighed.

~~~

youtube

Stella had certainly been sitting on the remains of a wall for almost an hour now and was already starting to get bored when she heard a rustling noise behind her, followed by a dull sound, as if something heavy had fallen into the grass. She jumped up and looked behind her, but nothing was visible at first glance. She moved slowly and carefully in the suspected direction and almost tripped over a motionless body in the tall grass.

The man looked strange to her, with his long, dark coat, and he was also quite tall. She couldn't make out his face because he was lying on his stomach, but she saw abrasions all over his arms and his clothes were quite worn, as if he had been wandering through the wilderness for days. Stella didn't think twice, returned to the former cellar and called for help.

Half an hour later, the men had him sitting against a wall and slowly poured water into him from a drinking hose. His face was scratched, presumably from branches, had a large bruise on his forehead and he was gasping a little when he breathed.

Everyone crouched around him curiously and eventually he began to speak. “Thank God, I found you. You are Monrad's allies, am I right? I have some tidings to tell him,” he croaked. “I was hoping to find someone at this secret meeting place.” He took another deep gulp from the hose and then began to narrate for half an hour without interruption.

Stella learned that he was one of four survivors who had escaped the ruthless raid by a special unit of the Royal Castle Guard. The rest were either dead or captured and Thord's estate had probably been ransacked.

“I wandered the mountains on foot for days because I couldn't get to my horse without being killed,” he continued. “Most of the time I ran and once fell down a scree slope,” he pointed to his forehead, “I had to take great detours to avoid falling into the hands of the castle's henchmen in any of the settlements, for I kept seeing riders of the guard on the way.”

He paused for a moment to drink more. “My people in Arendelle must know of everything, unless the other three have made it and take action.”

“Don't worry, everything is going according to plan in Arendelle. Your people are following Thord's orders and chaos is taking hold. However, as far as Monrad is concerned ...,” Reinhard said, bringing him up to date.

“Do you have a plan to free him?” asked the stranger. “If they get him over the jetty in the castle garden with a dinghy onto a ship, you don't stand a chance.”

“That's exactly the problem,” interjected one of the men, “and we haven't found a solution for that yet. We do have an informant in the castle, one of the gardeners, but he probably won't get wind of it until it's already too late. And there's been a Vakretta ship at anchor for two days, so it can't be long before it sails again. Very likely with Monrad on board.”

Stella hadn't even considered this possibility, always assuming that her father would be brought on board at the harbour. She thought about it feverishly while the men continued to discuss it. Then a vague idea occurred to her.

“What if another ship blocked the way and visitors from a distant land came to see the castle garden and ... I don't know, rare plants there wanted to visit ... botanists perhaps, whom your gardener might have invited?”

They all looked at her in amazement at first, but then laughed at her idea.

“And where are you going to get a ship so quickly, moreover with botanists on board whom no one has invited?” asked Reinhard, amused.

“Well, maybe there's one in the harbour that has a few crates of rare wines on board and is delivering to my uncle right now? I bet he could arrange something,” Stella returned with a grin, lifting her chin proudly.

Reinhard became instantly serious and the laughter of the others died away. Everyone looked at each other with raised eyebrows and then nodded admiringly at Stella for her extraordinary idea.

“You have just earned a membership in our secret council, Stella. Your plan is genius. You are in and you will ride straight to Albert and organize everything else. In the meantime, we'll mobilize our agents in the city and get everything ready. As soon as the castle gates open and they lead your father out, we shall be waiting for them,” Reinhard concluded and rose, as did everyone else now. He gallantly held out his hand to Stella to help her up, and she grinned and took it.

Everyone's eyes were fixed on her and she began to smile broadly for the first time in a long time. Finally, the time had come and she couldn't wait to hold her father in her arms again.

~~~

---

Remark: I hope you have enjoyed this chapter! Please leave a comment if you liked the story, I would be pleased to read your opinions, even criticisms. If you want to be tagged as soon I publish the next chapter please let me know, except you are already tagged :-) Note: Next week will be the conclusion of Part IV, with chapter 69, before I go into hiatus to write the end of the novel.

Tagging: @karma26 @true--north @annaofthenorthernlights @the-fifth-spirit-elsa @dronning-formynder05

#frozen #frozen2 #frozen3 #fanfic #epic novel #the broken bridge #part four #chapter 68 #bigfrozenfan

8 notes · View notes