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Chapter Text

As soon as the sun set below the horizon, there were few things to do in Arendelle. The town was plunged into silence and calm, lulled by the gentle lapping of the waves on its rocky shores along with the delicate movement of the leaves of the trees caused by the wind.

However, there was one place in the kingdom where if you pricked up your ears, you could hear the laughter of two little girls sneaking into the corners of the castle, trying not to upset any of the residents.

Princesses Anna and Elsa were playing in the middle of a wintry landscape inside the Great Hall, it being late summer. The place was full of fluffy snow scattered on the ground like a welcoming blanket, glittering stalactites hung from the chandelier made of ice so pure it could pass for glass, a magical and adorable setting.

There was no reason to fear, it was the secret of the royal family: the crown princess possessed powers of snow and ice. A beautiful gift that was given to her at birth, although they did not know the reason.

Arendellians had clear opinions about magic, particularly after a certain incident that took away one of their most beloved kings. Despite loving their rulers, they would not hesitate to rebel if they felt threatened. For Elsa's own safety, the number of people aware of her quirk was limited to three.

The night was short for both, they decided to make the most of it.

Anna leaped from one mound of snow to another, screaming with joy, trusting that her sister would make another pillar on which she would safely fall. They almost forgot that some guard might discover them as they roamed the halls in his nightly routine.

"Catch me," cried the youngest.

The other girl led with flick of her wrists as if it were a secret dance, letting the snow flow until it materialized into higher and higher columns, allowing Anna to land softly, letting out laughter.

"Again, again!" Anna shouted, pushing herself forward with all her energy.

"Wait" Elsa pleaded, feeling like she was losing her balance.

For a few moments her body floated in the air before she began to fall.

As soon as the little princess jumped off that platform, Elsa thought of the worst-case scenarios. She had slipped, and there was no way she could create another pile of snow to cushion Anna's fall. She helplessly raised one of her hands, accidentally firing a bluish shot from her powers.

With great fear, she watched as that blast of icy magic brushed her sister's hair without her noticing, then it all happened too quickly.

A loud thump, a crack, and a high-pitched howl of pain. Anna hit the ground, moaning for help. The light layer of snow that was left as evidence of the first hours of night play was not enough to prevent her injuries.

"Mom, Dad!" Anna bellowed as she grabbed her left ankle, causing concern in the eldest.

Elsa tried to get close to her, but her sister turned away in fear. As if she had caused the incident on purpose. That simple gesture hurt her deeply.

The wound looked bad, the foot was bent at an odd angle, and the joint area was beginning to swell. It must have hurt horribly; she didn't need to be a doctor to know it.

Wide open, the doors swung open as the worried monarchs of Arendelle entered. For some reason Elsa didn't understand, they both still wore work clothes instead of nightgowns.

"Elsa, what did you do?" Her father asks in an authoritative voice when he sees his two daughters in the middle of the frozen living room. “It's getting out of control!”

Both he and the queen went over to cradle Anna, who was still sobbing. They ran off in search of the royal doctor to treat the child, leaving the other little girl who was also frightened abandoned.

"It was an accident," she muttered to nothingness. “Sorry, Anna.”

Anguish and sorrow crept into Elsa, who trembled, repeating in her mind repeatedly the same phrase: "conceal, don’t feal." She knew firsthand that any strong emotion would get her powers out of control.

She stood alone, accompanied by the moonlight streaming in through the windows, feeling cold for the first time in her life.

She went back to her room, covering herself with the sheets up to her head, listening to the hustle and bustle of the castle staff upon learning that Anna had been hurt. She wept silently, feeling a bitter taste in her mouth.

Why did she allow herself to be persuaded to run away to play that night? Would Anna be, okay? Would she be punished for that?

She couldn't be the whirlwind of irrepressible energy that was her sister. Yes, they were both princesses, but Elsa was the heiress, she was destined to become queen of Arendelle. She couldn't get bad grades, she couldn't get distracted, she couldn't make excuses to go out and play or have bad manners, she had to be the perfect daughter.

Anna could go to the castle library, tear pages out of all the books, and only receive a reprimand that would last no more than a week. If Elsa thought to fold a single sheet, she would probably receive a disappointed sermon from King Agnarr, followed by a month of tasks to repair the damage.

"Are you here, Elsa?" Queen Iduna's soft voice asked as she entered the room, approaching her daughter's bed. “Don't worry, your sister will be fine, nothing broke. Can you tell me what happened?”

Iduna tried to wrap her in her arms, but was immediately rejected by the little girl, afraid of causing her some kind of harm. Her magic was responsible for the accident, even if her intentions were good there was a chance of hurting others. When she looked up, Elsa saw her mother's gentle smile that, without pressuring her, reminded her that she trusted her. She approached her slowly and hugged her tightly, letting that touch take away her sorrows.

Her felt like she could only be honest with her. Her mother did not treat her as the blameless Princess Elsa of Arendelle, but as what she really was: an eight-year-old girl.

"I slipped," she began, her voice trembling.

Her mother listened carefully to the whole story. When she finished it, she assured her that after a few weeks of rest, Anna would return to her usual antics. she checked that Elsa had no injuries, swaddled her carefully, and told her a story until she fell asleep.

For the rest of the night, another doubt assailed Elsa's mind during her sleep: "What would have happened if...?"

There were so many possibilities: hitting her sister with her powers, breaking her leg, falling on her side or head... what if it had been more serious or had killed her? Would her mother look at her with the same loving gaze?

She was so tired that sleeping wasn't even restful.

Opening her eyes at the first light of dawn, she could see her parents resting on a pile of blankets at the foot of Anna's bed, as they used to do when either of them got sick. A sweet and ordinary scene, except for the light layer of frost that covered the whole room.

"What if...?"

Fortunately, this time, she would never know.

Chapter Text

"Elsa, we should go riding, it's a beautiful day outside," Anna suggests over breakfast, with palpable energy.

Of course, the princess was right. After a particularly harsh winter that lasted for several weeks longer than usual, and a rather sober spring, Arendelle seemed to rejoice in those lovely first days of summer.

They were just perfect: warm enough to want to explore nature, nothing stuffy or scorching. The sun was shining mid-morning alongside fluffy clouds in a clear blue sky.

"Sorry, kid. Elsa must attend to court business before the arrival of the invited delegations." her father replies in a serious tone, looking at his wife, who only slightly shook her head.

"It's Anna's birthday," the queen reminds him. “You should let them spend some time together. Elsa has been following you everywhere for months”.

Anna swore she caught an impatient glow in Elsa as she gripped the hem of the sleeve of her elegant dress in a subtle attempt to remain calm.

As soon as her sister turned fifteen, her schedule was strictly timed by Gerda. Somehow the day allowed her to have classes with her tutors, court activities, meetings with the Council, and etiquette classes. Even the number of royal duties has continued to increase since her coronation ceremony as crown princess last year.

Weekends were the only time they shared, both served as active members of the Arendellian Royal Guard. Anna had proposed to her father to join the Navy but received a refusal. Their role was usually reduced to administrative tasks; The few military activities they carried out included training in self-defense, war tactics, the use of long-range weapons, and sword combat.

Arendelle was a peaceful and prosperous kingdom, with healthy external relations; None of them understood why they were being trained for war, if there was even one beyond motivating civilians to join the ranks. The military uniform on the princesses was merely pro-conscription advertising.

"Can you do without Elsa during— hum... eight hours?” Anna proposes when she sees her sister's gaze begging to run away, even though her posture indicated otherwise.

She admired Elsa's control over her emotions, worthy of being the heir to the throne, almost no one would guess what was going through her mind. Anna herself deserved a special medal for being an expert on arendellian crown princesses, with nineteen years of experience.

"We'll be back to welcome the entourage of special guests," Elsa assures, letting a bit of enthusiasm seep into her ever-serene tone.

Both sisters watched their mother pleading with pressure with a simple gesture, before the king relented. Perhaps Agnarr was the rightful king of Arendelle, but it was Iduna who made the decisions that pertained to the family.

They were still fascinated by their parents' love, solid after so many years, no matter how many people came to question it. They had a beautiful story that they heard from almost everyone in the village, like fairy tales.

"Don't stray too far from the city," Agnarr warns. “No visiting the surrounding villages to buy sweets, that's for you Anna. Elsa, be careful if there are people watching. Agree?

The girls nodded. When breakfast was over, they went out at once to change their elegant clothes into riding clothes appropriate for the day, not the gloomy green hues of the military uniform.

In the stables, Havski and Fjøra waiting saddled for them, eager to take them on the dirt roads beyond the rough castle walls. Both mounted gracefully, half-trotting across the central courtyard, nodding in return to the greetings of employees and citizens on their way to the entrance.

Once they left the Bridge of Arches behind, they spurred the steeds to speed up the march, being just a white, blue, and emerald blur before the eyes of their subjects, surprised to see the princesses playing with each other after so long.

Under the horses' hooves the ground was beginning to rise and become uneven. The fresh air of salty aroma mixed with herbaceous tones crashed against them, as they dodged low branches of the trees; away from the capital city with its colorful houses and shops, heading for the cliffs.

They tugged gently on the reins, slowing down as they felt the ground level out again. Few citizens dared to go so far from the village. No one would go looking for them there.

The scenery was still as beautiful as they remembered. From that height they could see almost everything: the towering mountain range behind the castle, the houses around the harbor, even some of the tallest structures in the mountain villages.

"What are you thinking, Your Royal Highness?" Anna jokes, elbowing Elsa.

"Nothing. Only... you know, work stuff," she stutters, descending gently from Fjøra. “That doesn't matter now. What do you want to do today? This is our chance to celebrate. As soon as the guests' boats dock it will be five horrible days behaving like perfect hosts.”

"How about resting?" she proposes, dismantling Havski. “When you are queen, you should declare my birthday a national holiday and we will set up tents with recreational and relaxation activities. I will refine my proposal to be submitted to the Council.”

Elsa smiled, making Anna feel satisfied. Their personalities were radically different, like water and oil. One, bubbly and energetic; the other, serious, and dedicated. They complemented each other well.

"Resting sounds fantastic," agrees the eldest, as she tied the horses to a log. “Later I must coordinate the royal guard for the surveillance of the event, so I won't be able to completely neglect myself, okay?”

"Hey, it's my first dance," Anna laughs at her sister's frown. “I want to see you, not the Captain of the Guard”.

"It's a symbolic title, you know," she denies, tapping her nose. “You also know that I will be with you, as a sister and as heiress of Arendelle.”

That was precisely what Anna detested. Like her father, Elsa rarely left her public side. She lived with hundreds of people every day, but there were few who really knew her.

Few could boast of having seen the Princess of Arendelle smile or hear her talk about the things she was passionate about, every day it was even more difficult for Anna to grasp anything that was not carefully rehearsed, and it worried her greatly.

"You should flirt with some of your suitors and enjoy my inopportune jokes; No trade deals, no boring conversations," she begs, using the look she was using to get her to give in to her madness.

"Flirting with suitors is part of my job. One I don't like at all," Elsa snorts, brushing a strand of platinum-blonde hair away from her forehead.

Her older sister was exaggeratedly beautiful, to the point of not looking human. With a slender body, refined look, pale white skin, long eyelashes, and large blue eyes set into a symmetrical face. It was the ideal beauty of the region. She looked young and mature at the same time, elegant, reserved, mysterious... She didn't understand how after almost four years She didn't have a boyfriend.

Anna didn't even care if Elsa found a dream prince. It would be enough if she showed interest to anyone: someone from the village, a colleague from the guard, an ambassador, a diplomat, a merchant, a scholar...

It wasn't that she was desperate to see her married, but that she seemed closed to the idea of opening to another person for fear of scaring her away because of her powers.

"Okay, let you skip the flirting part," Anna offers, pulling random things out of her travel bag.

She spread out a tablecloth on the floor while Elsa unpacked some snacks she had stolen from the kitchen, most of them treats that Olina purposely neglected for them. They lay down on the blanket, staring at the clouds, in silence, being two normal girls: not soldiers, not princesses.

"Someday I'll be queen," Elsa recalls cautiously, wagging one of her fingers in the air, leaving an almost imperceptible trail of icy flakes. “The Council is pressuring me to secure the future of our country”.

"That's awful, hasn't Dad thought of intervening?" Anna asks, turning to her. “He's king for a reason! Come on, she still has plenty of energy to continue the throne”.

For an instant, Anna felt that Elsa would drop the barriers that separated them, tell her secrets, fears, and afflictions. In those last years, their taciturn nature began to create an abyss between them.

"Our father has matters of greater importance to attend to”.

"No, Elsa!” Anna interrupts. “What could be more important than your child's well-being? They should understand that you're not ready for a relationship right now”.

"I don't feel ready to ever be in a relationship," Elsa sighs, turning to the youngest. “I doubt there is anyone who can love me like Mom loves Dad. I'm not an ordinary person”.

Gently, Anna brushed a few strands of hair from her forehead, trying to soothe her. They had always been inseparable, everyone knew that they loved each other, that they would protect each other and give their lives for each other if necessary.

The day Elsa took the crown, her closest adviser would be Anna, no one doubted that.

And at that moment, Elsa required some advice.

"Of course you're no ordinary person. You are a miracle, you have a gift that makes you unique. I've seen the dedication you put into every task you're assigned, you'll be a wonderful queen," Anna promises. “I believe in you, more than anything or anyone”.

The eldest's anguished face gradually transformed into an expression of relief, softening the look she was directing at Anna. Elsa was too used to being strict with herself.

"What would I do without you?" She smiles warmly.

They continued in silence, enjoying each other's presence, simply letting a calm day pass as they would need in the coming weeks. They didn't need words to let each other know how grateful they were to each other.

As soon as the sun was high enough, they decided to return to the castle, at a slow trot. Maybe they weren't the crazy adventures they used to have when they were younger, but spending time with her sister was the most valuable gift Anna could have received.

The guards in the harbor had not sighted a single guest ship, the townspeople continued with the preparations for the party that would begin at sunset.

Every person in the kingdom seemed to be busy trying to make Princess Anna's birthday perfect, while the royal sisters were grateful for each other's distraction to mind their own business.

Taking advantage of the fact that the army training yard was empty, they practiced their aim by shooting at targets placed at a significant distance, hidden in plain sight. No one would go looking for a couple of soldiers who were honing their skills in the rest period.

"Do you really want to keep doing this?" Elsa asks, aiming her crossbow at ground level again. “Anna, you're amazing with the sword, you don't need to take away the one thing I excel at”.

"Keep laughing, Captain Árnadalr," growls the youngest, as she climbs the low branch of a tree trying to improve her visibility. “Can't you have mercy at least today?”

For some reason, probably by chance, Anna's arrow hit the center of the bullseye, nearly tying Elsa's score. There was no way I could do that consciously.

"Did you see that?!" Anna celebrates. “Are you able to match it?! “

As much as possible, they made it an obligation for them to have fun. Military activities were a distraction from the real work for Elsa and she would soon be discharged from the army to devote herself entirely to politics. The next eight months were precious to her.

"Your Highness," murmurs one of the royal guards, suddenly appearing. “Princess Elsa, the queen is looking for you, we have seen Chatho's flag. We estimate thirty minutes for it to touch the port”.

Elsa pretended to ignore him, focusing on the target in front of her. She couldn't go wrong. If Anna won, she would be reminded of it for an eternity.

"Ha! That's another ten!” Anna shouts, falling gracefully from the tree, after taking her final shot. “Do you want to get over that, Captain?”

"Gladly," Elsa replies, concentrating on her breathing and hitting right in the center. “I think you owe me something.”

The young soldier was still impatiently behind them, listening to the exchange of words, waiting for the opportunity not to sound rude. Insulting the royal family was a crime, although directly disobeying Queen Iduna was considered more serious.

"Your Highness," insists the soldier desperately. “Her Majesty requests your presence, urgently. You should get ready...”

"Shh," Anna chides, pointing to her sister's black ball gown, with a few glittering medals. “Right now, she's not Princess Elsa of Arendelle, she's Captain Árnadalr," she laughs, using her surname on official paperwork.

They didn't want to act arrogant; they just didn't like to be brought back to reality so abruptly.

"Captain Árnadalr, Lieutenant Árnadalr," the guard pleads in an almost high-pitched tone, looking at both princesses, finally catching Elsa's attention. “Guests will be making landfall soon, we've already spotted Chatho's boat, you should come”.

Sighing resignedly, they nodded, heading to their rooms to change into clothes more appropriate for the occasion.

They had to keep up appearances. Arendelle didn't need army officers, need's her charismatic princesses.

Gradually a crowd gathered in the central courtyard of the castle, erupting in cheers as the carriages carrying the foreign representatives showed their respect for the hosts.

The royal family stood at the top of the stairs, exchanging polite greetings with their guests, before allowing them into the castle where employees would direct them to cozy rooms equipped with everything they needed during their stay.

The date coincided comfortably with Arendelle's national holidays and was perhaps the most notable event of the year for its allies.

Elsa continued to feel nervous, even though she was used to making public appearances. She didn't know exactly what made her uncomfortable: the restrictive dress that suffocated her, the stiff hairstyle, or the sunlight that hurt her eyes.

She frowned, trying to focus on the emblems lined up: Torres, Zaria, Tikaani, Royaume, Weselton, Chatho, Corona... the others were out of her range of vision. She held her breath, keeping her composure.

"Queen Marisol of Eldora," Kai, the butler, introduces in a deep, commanding voice that could be heard by all.

A girl, about her age, with dark hair and skin of a beautiful golden hue, descended from the carriage with her head held high, though her hands trembled.

Had heard of her on a couple of occasions last year. She ascended the throne after the tragic death of her parents when her ship sank in the middle of the ocean. Elsa couldn't imagine the pain of such a loss.

She was a little surprised that Queen Marisol personally responded to the invitation when her ties with Arendelle were not exactly the most solid. The rest of the entourages were usually attended by aristocrats and ambassadors. Maybe it was just for the dance, many nobles only came out of their ostentatious castles to show them off.

The princesses made a polite bow that Queen Marisol tried to reciprocate before recalling her new rank. She bowed her head slightly to the King and Queen and smiled at the sisters.

Behind her, three guards from her country guarded her: two burly men who looked weathered by the desert and, to Elsa's surprise, a beautiful tall, slender girl. She was hopelessly absent from the rest of the world, losing herself in the exotic beauty of the eldoran soldier.

"It's a pleasure to finally meet you, Princess Elsa," Queen Marisol interrupts her thoughts. “I hope we get to know each other very well”.

"I want the same," Elsa replies, shaking her hand following protocol.

For a moment, her eyes met the foreign guard, wonderful, hypnotic, and intelligent, they were analyzing a million things at the same time. This stranger did not share any traits with her compatriots except the color of her hair.

 "Gerda will escort you to your quarters," Elsa offers kindly, trying to maintain control.

Queen Marisol nodded, following the maid into the castle with her guards hot on her heels, leaving the arendellian heiress confused for the first time in her life.

Chapter Text

Unlike the rest of the nobles who danced gracefully and gracefully throughout the Great Hall, Princess Elsa of Arendelle had stayed close to the walls, avoiding any contact with other people with little success.

The party was in full swing, glasses were passed from hand to hand. Waiters handed out appetizers to guests, entering and exiting the event with trays laden with meticulously curated treats.

Her parents engaged in lively chats with other monarchs. Young people of her age chatted about banal topics in very bad attempts at flirting, lost in a world where it didn't matter what happened beyond the opulent festivities they frequented.

Anna talked to several people at once, taking advantage of her social skills. She appeared to know all the people personally, who laughed because of her keen sense of humor and vast knowledge of general culture.

Elsa’s gaze met her sister for a moment. Anna silently asked if she was okay, Elsa shook her head.

She cracked a small smile, before heading out into the hallway for fresh air. The event was beginning to suffocate her.

Coming out of the hustle and bustle of the hall, an annoying buzzing sound assaulted her head, so she didn't pay much attention to surroundings. A contingent of employees rushed in carrying a gigantic cake, urgently asking the rest of those present to clear the aisle. She dodged them in an inelegant manner, leaning against a corner. As soon as decided that the danger had passed, resumed her path, and accidentally collided with a stranger.

Her mind tried to process everything that was going on around: lost balance for a moment and grabbed hold of the first thing she could reach, but to no avail, taking the other person with her to the carpeted floor. She heard a low growl, as the stranger cushioned the blow with their own body. The princess was on top of they, their faces too close together and bodies a mess of limbs.

She instinctively tried to get as far away from as possible, however, that person imprisoned her. Panic was beginning to creep up inside, until the stranger's gaze relaxed in recognition, was the girl she saw that very afternoon: Eldora’s guard.

Was that girl really from Eldora? Her skin tone was quite pale, hair was shoulder-length dark and curled gracefully, highlighting her stern features. Nothing typical of a country where most of its inhabitants were warm as sunbeams. Up close she looked so much prettier, and judging by her features, she was perhaps a couple of years older than Elsa.

The woman's hypnotic eyes, which were somewhere between gray and green, seemed to pose a threat. They'd put anyone to flight, except Elsa.

“Who are you?” The princess asked, fascinated by her.

“Would you like to take off first?” She frowns, betraying a strange accent.

“Sure, excuse me,” Elsa replies, sitting up, offering her a hand to help her stand up.

The guard reluctantly accepted the gesture, standing in front of her at a respectful distance, with a stoic expression.

Everything abroad was unusual. Her posture gave away her work exactly, though the way she lifted her chin and rested hands was more like the ladies at court.

Despite knowing that shouldn't bother her during working hours, the curiosity got the better of her. Elsa walked over, careful not to invade her personal space again.

“Was the trip exhausting?” She asked in a soft tone.

“I've had worse, Milady,” admits the guard, politely, bordering on insolence.

Elsa wasn't outgoing or reckless, she didn't go around talking to strangers for no reason. Nodded to the guard's response and surprisingly decided to venture out to unravel the mysterious aura that enveloped her.

Perhaps it was the spirit of military camaraderie. She could count on the fingers of one hand the foreign female soldiers she dealt with in the past, was not a typically feminine profession. The Arendellian army accepted them into their ranks more because there wasn't much to choose from.

Was sure that young woman had an interesting story to tell.

“I'm Princess Elsa of Arendelle,” Introduces herself, hoping for some kind of awkward gesture to signal her to walk away.

“Cassandra of Nowhere in Particular,” she replies emotionlessly, bowing too perfectly for an ordinary soldier.

Silence settled again, letting the princess know that there was nothing else to talk about. The guard would not converse with her, and it would be inappropriate to continue to insist.

“I apologize if my presence has disturbed you and for what happened,” Elsa murmurs, trying to return to her original purpose. “Enjoy your stay in the kingdom.”

“I will, Your Highness,” Cassandra assures us, ending the conversation.

Even if Elsa possessed magical powers of snow and ice, Cassandra seemed to be vastly colder than she was. That captivated her. Knew she wouldn't really get anywhere, but for a moment it felt nice to be interested in someone else.

After leaving Corona, Cassandra didn't expect life to smile on her, although she also didn't think in the least that it would be so complicated. Things seemed sorted out at home, at least arranged enough with the people she cared about; however, in the other Seven Kingdoms they maintained the perception that was a dangerous criminal.

Perhaps they exaggerated a little with the number of pamphlets accusing her of being a traitor.

Her journey began without a hitch, visiting small towns where reloaded supplies. Being an outsider, it was virtually impossible to engage in heroic deeds or be bounty hunters. The closest she came to getting a stable job was protecting a village from attack by thugs on its access roads before uncomfortable rumors forced to leave.

Realized in that short period of time that missed the old responsibilities had at home; But finding something just as good, or at least permanent, seemed far away.

Despite letters of recommendation from Queen Arianna and Princess Rapunzel, couldn't get a job that would allow her to settle down and the money was starting to run out. For various reasons, no army wanted to recruit her, regardless of her unquestionable abilities as a soldier.

“It's about loyalty to our countries, something you couldn't give to your own nation,” She was told in Ingvarr, whose queen in the past invited her to join her battalion.

Although received tempting offers from Corona's enemies just for handing over state secrets, decided against it and continued to travel south for months. She was able to go north where Corona's relations, positive or negative, were weakest; But was not enthusiastic about the idea of being a nomad during the winter in those lands.

Somehow, made it to Eldora: a desert trading kingdom that had just suffered the death of its monarchs, and the heiress was too young to paint a strong picture to the world.

They needed to increase the number of assets in their lines, so they admitted Cassandra without issue. After a little more than a year of impeccable performance, she rose through the ranks as much as was allowed.

Given her nationality it would be impossible for her to obtain the position of captain of the guard, although forged a relatively close friendship with the General of the Army, who granted the title of lieutenant and assigned as one of Queen Marisol's personal guards.

That has why accompanied her on all trips abroad, following her closely like a silent shadow. Her knowledge of politics and protocol helped her dodge potential encounters with the life left behind.

It was not a matter of embarrassment or erasing who she had been, but rather a failed attempt to hold on to the place where found a new opportunity. She wanted to feel Eldoran, even though her heart would always belong to Corona.

Was a bittersweet surprise to learn that Rapunzel and Eugene arrived at the event, especially since Corona and Arendelle weren't exactly friendly. To smooth things over, the most prudent thing to do would have been for the ambassador or a diplomat to attend, however, Coronans did not usually put prudence first.

They didn't expect to see her either, so they wouldn't look for her among the guards of other guests. No nobleman would give her more than a cursory glance. Understood from her early childhood that they would be mere shadows without a face or name for almost anyone in the noble class.

The encounter with the Princess of Arendelle was simply unrealistic. Nothing happened as it should have, because the responsibility for the mistake should have fallen on Cassandra. Yelling, tantrums, and punishment would be expected. That Princess Elsa didn't blame her for the accident and even tried to chat with her was perhaps one of the strangest events that ever happened to her.

Considering that had witnessed strange magics and fought a vengeful millennial demon, someone from royalty without airs of superiority or condescending... too unlikely to believe it was true.

While her queen was talking to other regents, she searched the room for the host princess, without success. Gave up after a few minutes, resuming her unexciting duty. Could almost swear that nothing interesting would happen during the rest of the assignment.

Continued in her position at the entrance door closest to Queen Marisol, following her graceful footsteps, making eye contact from time to time with Alvan, the guard who had been assigned to the monarch since birth.

Okay, maybe gave too much credit to the Arendellian. Her boss never behaved insufferably, she was nice and kind, didn't get into trouble.

Unlike Rapunzel, Queen Marisol seemed to know quite well her place in the hierarchy. The people adored her as only someone who cared about her subjects could gain appreciation, but she was not interested in bonding: did her duty without getting involved in their lives. Working for her was so much easier.

She was so comfortable in the monotony that allowed herself to be distracted for a few seconds. Serious mistake. Twitched like a cat when heard familiar voices coming down the hallway, next to the footsteps of two people... of her best friends. It had been a couple of years, but still recognized them, even with eyes closed.

“I'm telling you, Arendellian pastries are exquisite,” Eugene exclaims, walking alongside Rapunzel. “We should take the recipe to Attila, if we can get a baker to lend it us.”

“I doubt they'd want to expose their secrets,” Rapunzel laughs, no concern about being late to the event. “I don't want us to start a war over cupcakes. Pascal would love to try it... I wish he could come with us.”

“Pascal will be fine, honey,” her partner reassures. “He'll be thrilled to hear about everything we've experienced at this party when we return home.”

Cassandra smiled subconsciously as she saw them wrapped in their new roles as heirs to their kingdom, dressed in fine attire and sophisticated bearing. They did it so naturally that no one would believe the story behind them. Even noticed that Raps wore shoes.

«Our paths keep drifting away», Cassandra thought wistfully.

They walked past her unnoticed, causing to breathe a sigh of relief. A few minutes later, her other teammate, Omar, came to relieve. In that small kingdom, there was no need for the three of them to keep watch full-time. Would take advantage of that break to get to know the surroundings.

Contrary to what many would assume, Elsa had been attracted to someone for the first time at the age of sixteen, when she accompanied her father on a diplomatic mission to Tikaani and lived with a talented competitor in bobsled races.

It was a childish and even silly infatuation, they walked together in the snow and exchanged letters for a few months, before finding out about the girl's engagement and sending her an ostentatious gift that ended their friendship.

However, was never curious to define exactly who was leaning towards. She knew surroundings well, understood that despite the liberal ideas prevailing in Arendelle, the Council would not allow the Crown Princess to date another woman.

Kept that secret ever since; hadn't mentioned it to anyone. Her access to the crown hung in the balance, did not need to impose any more obstacles on herself.

“Princess Elsa,” greets an officer of the guard, surprised to see her in the middle of the castle gardens. “Need anything?”

“Is it possible for me to do a training routine, Commander Anders?” The princess asked, unsure whether her proposal was appropriate given the role she played at the time.

“Whatever you command, Your Highness,” Commander Anders said. “Knutsen, Haug, Evensen, come here!” He exclaims, calling out to some of his subordinates.

The soldiers repositioned themselves to fill the empty spaces left by the summoned, three young men recently promoted to royal guards, whose expressions of anguish they did not bother to conceal.

“Your Highness,” the trio greeted with a trembling bow, expecting a horrible reassignment.

On the other hand, the officer's face remained undaunted. It was not uncommon for Commander Anders for someone in the royal family to make strange requests in the middle of diplomatic visits, but if those requests involved military maneuvers, was more common for it to be headed by Princess Anna.

“They'll go to the East Courtyard for an extraordinary combat evaluation led by Captain Árnadalr,” the commander emphasized, handing his own rapier to Elsa. “Don't be too harsh with them, captain, it's your first week on the job.”

Elsa nodded, leading the group to the place where the commander had indicated. An inconspicuous spot in the royal gardens that few approached at night due to its sobriety. The guards listened attentively to his instructions, firmly believing that it was an authentic examination.

After all, what reason would the crown princess and captain of the royal guard must lie to them?

Knutsen, a guy with a proud bearing, was the one who took the initiative to confront her. He drew his weapon and launched the first attack towards his unsuspecting opponent. Elsa barely dodged him, grumbling to herself because of the stupid outfit. Yet she enjoyed this false proof much more than the hypocritical event.

The light of the streetlamps and the moon created elongated shadows on the hedges and trees, adding mysticism to the atmosphere. She could imagine herself in the middle of the forest that stretched across the Arenfjord, instead of being locked in a golden cage.

She felt comfortable, was in her element.

Swung her rapier a few times, mentally repeating fencing master's lessons, rationalizing the guy's increasingly erratic actions; Knutsen didn’t expected that response and continued to be baffled by her appearance.

They must have looked the weirdest thing in the world as a woman in a refined evening gown holding a lethal weapon, against three supposedly well-trained royal guards.

The salty, damp air that came from the fjord cooled the beads of sweat that pooled on her forehead, while clearing her mind of stress. Felt at one with the sky. That state of peace allowed her to dream and be more efficient.

The guy staggered for a few seconds, enough for the princess to make him drop the sword. Elsa wasn't half as talented as Anna in combat, yet she was a better strategist: she recognized people's weaknesses and strengths without having to interact much with them.

Evensen approached more fearfully, unable to even reach for his weapon before tripping over a small hole in the ground, prompting a laugh from Haug, who hurriedly adopted an attacking stance and lunged at Elsa.

Elsa managed to contain him, but the guy's abilities were unquestionable, he moved with grace and discipline. Perhaps he was the son of a veteran because he behaved like what was supposed to be, in his gaze he found respect for her as his officer.

They continued in that confrontation for several more minutes, intensifying to such an extent that the princess really wanted to defeat him at any cost. She was so focused on Haug that she hardly noticed Evensen being knocked down by a shadow and Knutsen unconscious on the ground.

Haug stopped and turned to his teammates, only to be knocked out with an elbow to the jaw. She aimed her rapier at the neck of the stranger who stood back to her, wearing a brown outfit that looked familiar.

“Turn around slowly,” ordered, hoping her voice wouldn't tremble.

She thought of worst-case scenarios, not finding a less scandalous resolution. Mentally slapped herself for decision to confront the enemy rather than escape by taking advantage of the scarcity of light and her memory knowledge of the castle's plans.

She didn't consider herself easy prey or a helpless princess, if the situation worsened, could use her powers to stop the threat. However, those young who were swept away by whim under her deceit could be hurt.

“Wow, I was expecting a little warmer thanks. You know, to save you from... your own guards?” A female voice says, raising her hands in peace. “You're weirder than I thought. It wasn't on my vacation list to stop a civil war.”

“Turn around!” blurts out.

The stranger turned slowly, always exposing her hands. Seeing Cassandra's face filled her with a sense of embarrassment for the first impression she gave her, realizing that the second one wasn't much better. These were not dignified ways to represent royalty to member of a foreign delegation.

“It's you again,” Elsa snorts cynically, undeterred by bringing the tip of her sword closer, just millimeters away from cutting the skin of the Eldoran guard. “What are you doing here?”

Cassandra's gaze was difficult to interpret.

The irrational part of her brain, wanted to trust the other girl and her apparent good intentions. Fortunately for Arendelle, Elsa was not naïve: she would be suspicious of everything, would look for explanations. These virtues were well appreciated, both in the military and in politics.

“I didn't mean to. I went out to take a break, heard noise and saw you fighting these guys, I thought...” she explains, pausing to analyze how incoherent it sounded. “I considered yourself in danger”.

“And you go around rescuing maidens in distress?” reproaches.

“ You seemed to manage well, for a princess,” Cassandra says.

That comment was a bit offensive. Of course, no one expected the heiress of a small kingdom to do anything other than organize dances, visit orphans, and oversee the harvests.

However, she didn’t see anything in Cassandra that posed a real threat. Evensen groaned as he sat up, trying to wake Haug up. Knutsen was still breathing. If it were an attempted kidnapping or assassination, killing the witnesses would be optimal.

“I got good training,” Elsa replies, lowering her weapon sharply.

Lord Peterssen, her father's closest advisor, had told her something about taking advantage of the perception of others for the benefit of the kingdom. Even if she was underestimated, could send a strong message with her actions.

“I can see it,” Casandra nods, catching her breath, rubbing her neck as if to make sure she hasn't been decapitated. “I wanted to get to know the surroundings, a precaution. Don't take it the wrong way, Arendelle is a country with almost zero crime rates, I highly doubt they are prepared to...”

«Oh, she's arrogant» Elsa thinks, tempted to assume a defensive posture. In the world she grew up in, had to be respectful and condescending, because there was no one who played in the same category as her. Of course, she would act according to protocol. Still, if there was ever an opportunity to lose decorum, was precisely that.

She wouldn't give in to the soldier defending a sandcastle.

“Eldora is in a similar situation to ours,” she replies.

“Eldora's territory is four times as large as Arendelle.

Suspicion of Cassandra continued to grow. No commoner would receive such a precise education, in some countries even knowing how to read or write was reserved for nobles.

“Three-quarters of the kingdom is an uninhabitable desert,” Elsa alleges.

“Touché,” Cassandra sighs, adjusting her uniform. “Do you really want to talk about military might? I thought royalty talked about fashion, theater, and fancy things”.

“I’m not that princess. I mean, if you’d found my sister...” Says ironically, swinging her rapier as a reminder that she was armed. “I recognize that our numbers are quite insignificant, but we will zealously defend our borders.”

“Do you really believe it?” She asks, making a dismissive gesture toward the newbies. “If it were a real threat, your bodyguards wouldn't be able to protect you.”

Cassandra remained steadfast in her stance, not to defend her ego (as many suitors often did when wanting to steer the conversation in the direction of the military) but as an equal who was passionate about debating such issues.

“They're not my bodyguards.”

“Then drop them from the list of possible candidates,” Cassandra suggests jokingly, eliciting a sincere smile.

She was strangely comfortable, which Elsa mentally reprimanded herself because trusting a stranger was totally contrary to the upbringing she received. However, couldn't help but feel chills as found herself surrounded in an atmosphere full of energy, it was terribly pleasant.

Although she was never locked up without contact with the outside world, Elsa considered herself a spectator in the lives of others, had to oversee the welfare of her subjects, listen to the Council debate the kingdom, watch her parents run it, and follow them like an eternal learner.

Concurrently she had thousands of eyes on her waiting for a convincing performance, a doll on display that concealed a part of her as demanding as her place in the monarchy.

“I don't think it's convenient for anyone here to be involved in this incident. I'll let the anomalies pass and give you the benefit of the doubt, but I'll keep an eye on you,” Elsa warns, seeing that her soldiers managed to get to their feet and seemed relatively conscious.

Seeing Cassandra crack a small haughty smile, Elsa’s heart raced, it fit perfectly with her personality: an insatiable warrior spirit.

“You have my word. I don't have to reveal state secrets,” she whispers.

“Do you intend to start a war against Arendelle?” Asks, frowning, not understanding the motives behind the last sentence.

“No, but you may want to start a war against Eldora.”

The group of Arendellian guards clustered around them, blocking any escape route. Making the foreigner curse just for trying to have fun.

“Your Highness, are you fine?” Haug asks.

“Of course, we... we were talking,” Elsa replies, putting both hands-on Cassandra's shoulders. “It's okay, gentlemen. You can retreat, I'll discuss the test results with Commander Anders”.

The contact made Cassandra shiver from the cold, but it didn't take them away.

“Are you sure?” Evensen replies, dissatisfied with the indication.

“Definitely. Return to your assignment,” the princess commands, before turning to Cassandra. “You'll come with me.”

They waited until the soldiers had left. Before tacitly deciding that this nightly encounter would be their secret.

Unsure why she was following the order of someone didn't work for, Cass marveled at the design of the gardens, but what really captivated her was the clever arrangement of the Arendellian royal guards.

Or at least, it was what she was trying to convince herself of to avoid the fact that she was intrigued by the girl in front of her. After the tension of the confrontation, she noticed how nervous felt alone with the young heiress.

“Why did you lie to them?” Cassandra frowns, after a while following the Princess of Arendelle down a path that led them farther and farther away from the event.

“It wasn't a complete lie. I don't know, guess I like you,” Elsa replies, without looking at her. “I can let the incident pass, on this occasion. If the plan was to hurt me, you could have done it with the dagger you hide under that ridiculous uniform. How can you walk around with that?”

Elsa's deduction skills seemed impressive her, had met all kinds of people during her journey, but none were that surprising.

The fact that she trusted her comforted Cassandra. Unlike Rapunzel who blindly believed in second chances and seeing the goodness in everyone around, Elsa was more cautious and mature, clearly influenced by her training as a future sovereign.

Although, underneath all the modesty and good manners, she had an acid wit and clever insults. They looked more alike than Cassandra would admit out loud.

“Excuse me, but have you seen her dress?” Cassandra asks, determined not to be left behind. “I find it more surprising that you tolerates it all day.”

“You got it,” Elsa relents, finally reaching a lonely bench in front of a pond. “Won't they be looking for you?”

“It's my break. In a couple of hours, they will. Don't think that I'm resigning myself from my duties with Queen Marisol, she has forced us to accept recesses.”

They took seats, keeping a respectful distance. Cassandra wondered if that was the common way to start a friendship, she didn't have enough references to compare it. What she did know was that meeting her was completely worth it.

“Admirable, for royalty,” laughs the princess.

“Your Highness, you're talking to a simple soldier, you can't believe it,” Cassandra jokes.

Something about the implications of her comment seemed to make Elsa uncomfortable. While the princess's reputation didn't include light talk and accessibility, also didn't think she'd be pigeonholed as arrogant and elitist. It was simply hard to imagine anyone actively running away from her.  

“I'm talking to a colleague,” Elsa corrects suddenly self-consciously, offering her a hand. “In my spare time I am Captain Árnadalr. Honorary officer of the royal guard of Arendelle.”

Cassandra tried to contain her astonishment, doing a lousy job. Was that girl who looked like something out of a fairy tale a captain? She needed to study the customs of Arendelle more carefully.

“Lieutenant Krone,” Cassandra agrees, accepting the gesture. “Personal escort of Queen Marisol of Eldora. It's funny, even in the military you have a higher rank than mine, Your Highness,” she adds, sarcastically.

The first time she saw Elsa she thought was pretty, a young woman who was aware of her beauty, capriciously decided to ignore it and tried to hide behind the role she had to play. Was someone she would describe as intriguing, elegant, regal... Not like beautiful, that word was just too small.

They were traits she respected and treating her like a pretty princess felt wrong.

“Cassandra Krone,” Elsa repeats, almost making it sound like a melody. “Doesn't sound Eldoran.”

“Is your last name really Árnadalr?” Cassandra deflects the subject, trying not to involve complicated matters to explain. “Wasn't there a more creative way than taking the name of your kingdom?”

Elsa didn't seem to notice the change in her attitude, and if she did, knew how to hide it. The princess shook her head as if it wasn't the first time had given that explanation and decided didn't really matter.

“You'll find that we Arendellians aren't the most creative people,” she shrugs. “Thank you for sticking with me, I really needed to take a leave of absence from the party, events with royalty are too fancy to be fun.”

“If I knew of any escape route, believe me, I would have taken it out of the castle to clear your head.”

Regretted what her proposal to the crown princess of a foreign kingdom entailed. Why was being so careless with her words? Did she want getting points for sleeping in the dungeons?

“I won't hand over state secrets to a potential enemy,” Elsa smiles, lightening the mood. “I haven’t gone this far at the army because of my pretty face.”

“That was petulant, even for a princess,” Cass replies, allowing herself to laugh.

“I have my moments, I guess.”

Elsa's smile spread more across her face, capturing her full attention. That girl must have some flaw, since otherwise she shouldn't even be considered human.

«Her eyes are really gorgeous», Cassandra thought, tempted to stare at them for the rest of eternity.

For some strange reason, she wanted to really know Elsa.

Chapter Text

Cassandra regretted talking to Elsa the night before, because now she kept looking at the beautiful Arendellian princess, aware that she was also being watched.

It had been an evening to remember, they exchanged stories of diplomatic travels, chatted a bit about politics, trade, and history; even allowed her to see the stables and invited on an equestrian ride when she had the chance.

But at no time was Elsa reckless. She didn't talk more than necessary, nor did take her beyond public spaces, and she was sure that at least six guards were always following them.

Cass respected that. If she were in a similar position, would do the same thing.

At the end of her break, they returned to the party together only to see Elsa say goodbye to the attendees who were on their way to the guest rooms in the west wing of the castle.

They walked away in silence in the corridor, with a small gesture so as not to arouse suspicion. It was fun, until she spent the rest of the morning trying to analyze those strange sensations it generated in her.

At that moment, she really expected to be wrong with her conclusions.

Elsa wore an impeccable blue formal dress paired with a blue jacket as she led some of the delegations around the castle gardens (on a route she recognized from the night before). Although her outfit seemed uncomfortable, it was less restrictive than the one worn at the party.

Almost no one paid attention to the princess's explanation of the design and selection of endemic species to give that sophisticated look to plants that she had never seen before. Queen Marisol nodded occasionally, lost in so many colors. Eldora was radically different: a sandy desert with small shrubs and a few low trees with sparse foliage.

Instinctively, Cassandra glanced among the other attendees who had no personal escort and were content with those assigned by the hosts. As I imagined it would be no one from Corona accompanied the entourage. She guessed that a second group was led by the other princess.

"These are some of the things Arendelle can offer you. I can assure you quality and a competitive price. We're known for our hospitality and fair trade," Elsa finishes, directing her blue eyes at Cassandra. “Anyway, Gerda will accompany you to the main courtyard before the festival begins. I will attend to your proposals personally”.

The nobles nodded in conviction, bowing farewell as they followed the castle maid down another corridor, leaving Queen Marisol alone with the princess, a little uncomfortable.

"Is something wrong, Your Majesty?" Elsa asks, seeing that she had no intention of leaving.

"I was hoping to talk to you alone," the queen replies politely. “I think we'll be able to understand one another. Until recently we were in the same position, and I know you will be a great leader”.

Intrigued, Elsa nodded and gestured for Queen Marisol to accompany her in a different direction than the others had gone. The path was full of crocuses, Arendelle’s national flower as she heard during the princess's presentation. However, Her Majesty did not take a single step, she stood still, forcing the hostess to wait for her.

"He's Omar, she's Cassandra. Do you mind them accompanying us on the walk?" Queen Marisol asks, implying with her tone that she was not asking for permission.

"Not at all," Elsa denies, silently calling out to two Arendellian guards. “Did you wanted to talk business?”

She admired the way Elsa reacted, invested with dignity and authority. Cass wondered why the only information circulating about her during the last few hours was the rejection of suitors and zero intentions to socialize beyond official business.

"Your country has caught my attention as a trading partner, especially for coal and some kinds of wood," the queen says calmly. “I have visited all the kingdoms in my region, and none can provide them, or their quality is not satisfactory to our needs. I heard that those are some of Arendelle's most important export products. I want to find a way for them to reach Eldora without problems, we will provide them with a safe and rich route to connect the north with the east."

"I think we can work on it," the princess declares without a shadow of doubt. “Some small adjustments will be necessary, but there are no impediments to solving it in the short term. The details of the agreement can be settled in the presence of King Agnarr, I will take care of the logistics, Your Majesty”.

Cassandra knew firsthand that Queen Marisol was kind and friendly. The need for a commercial treaty was genuine, but the intentions of directing it to Elsa, in such a private way, were merely to try to get closer to her. A lonely soul who had lost everything in the world was looking for someone who understood her: a friend.

"Sounds nice, Princess Elsa," the monarch smiles. “You can call me Marisol; you don't need honorifics. Her Majesty and Queen make me feel very old and I am younger than my bodyguards”.

"Of course, Marisol," Elsa replies, raising her eyebrows as she glanced briefly at Cassandra. “Come on, I think we're late for the opening of the festival. I promise you'll love it”.

For Arendelle's national holidays, the city was filled with people. The market stalls were buzzing with activity where you could find more than twenty different desserts. Flags with the kingdom's crest flew everywhere and some tents displayed entertainment, games, and gambling.

From time to time, royal guards guarded for any danger to guarantee the safety of the guests who seemed to have a great time admiring ice sculpture, miniature models of windmills and street dances that spontaneously began among the inhabitants.

Elsa smiled as she watched her parents share cookies, while her sister tried to annoy her by tapping her shoulder.

They had spent the day covering different agendas: Anna took the younger dignitaries on a horseback ride around the town, while Elsa entertained those of authority prior to their audiences with the king.

"Prince Rudi of the Southern Isles seems to be very interested in you," Anna says suddenly. “Although, if you prefer, he has two other unmarried brothers to choose from. They're attractive if I may say so”.

"Don't do that, please," Elsa asks, rubbing the bridge of her nose. “I can stand the Council telling me I should marry, but not you”.

"Why? Has someone stolen my sister's heart?” Anna jokes, pushing her slightly before noticing Elsa's seriousness. “Are you kidding me? Do you really like someone? Is that why you disappeared from the party last night?”

"Those were too many questions in one sentence," Elsa says.

With a cry of unroyal exasperation, Anna led her into an empty alley. Elsa couldn't hide anything from her sister if she wanted to get information out of her. Both were stubborn and stubborn; however, Anna knew no limits and would use any tool to reach her goal.

"Go ahead, tell me," Anna begs, taking her arm. “Is he handsome? Is he the son of Torres' ambassador? Corona’s Prince? No, wait, he's married. The nephew of the Duke of Weselton?... I'm running out of options among the available singles”.

"It's nobody, Anna," Elsa retorts, clenching her fists, as a thin layer of frost covered the walls of the nearby houses.

At that moment, Anna knew she had to stop. Faced with an excess of emotional stimuli, her sister's powers got out of control, and they didn't know how dangerous it could be. They weren't going to put themselves at risk, or the kingdom.

"I understand," Anna reassures her. “When you're ready to tell me, I'll be here”.

She reached over to wrap a hug around Elsa, waiting for the impression to pass before they were discovered by someone. When they looked up, they found an Eldoran guard who seemed just as embarrassed as them.

"Lieutenant Krone, what are you doing here?" Elsa asks, twisting her fingers.

"Your Highness, I— It's nothing, I got lost in so many people," she excuses herself.

Anna was a little confused, after all, when would lone wolf Elsa bother to learn the name of someone she can't sign a declaration of war on? Maybe she didn't know her sister as well as she imagined.

"Lieutenant Krone? That doesn't sound Eldoran," Anna murmurs, in a bad attempt to join a conversation from which she felt excluded. “Anyway, I'm Princess Anna of Arendelle”.

"My pleasure," the guard greets, bowing hastily. “You seem to be busy. I must meet Queen Marisol again. See you later, Your Highnesses”.

"Wait, Cassandra," Elsa asks, grabbing her forearm. “Something isn't right, what's wrong?”

Seeing the strange exchange between her older sister and the foreigner, Anna tried to figure out the relationship between them, what could they have in common to spend more than a second to each other? Cassandra didn't seem any friendlier or more outgoing than Elsa.

"If there was any danger, I'd be defending Queen Marisol," Cassandra replies calmly. “I have to leave”.

Elsa nodded in bewilderment, watching the other girl leave. Anna put a hand on her shoulder, reminding that she was by her side and had her support. She would keep her eyes fixed on the lieutenant, not distrustful of Elsa's judgment, although, protecting her was part of Anna’s role as sister.

Thankful that Princess Elsa didn't ask any more questions, Cassandra returned to her position as escort, watching Queen Marisol choose from several models of floral-embellished pins.

She handed a small box to Omar, containing cookies and cupcakes from a popular bakery that the queen requested, leaving Cass in line as she continued her tour of the festival.

Omar gave her a worried look, silently asking if everything was okay; on the other hand, Alvan made a gesture of disapproval. Cass nodded before staring at the bustling harbor where large quantities of goods were lowered and loaded onto docked ships.

She liked the scent of Arendelle's saltpeter, mixed with forest vegetation; in a way they reminded of her old home in Corona. They inspired to venture to new places, to meet different people. That adorable little kingdom seemed ready to welcome her with open arms.

"You know, it's not necessary for the three of you to follow me all the time," Queen Marisol says, interrupting her thoughts. “I know the Council asked you not to stay away, but what could happen to me here? Being attacked by an insect?”

"Your Majesty, we must ensure your safety," Alvan insists, sternly. “Eldora's well-being depends on you”.

"Eldora's well-being depends on its soldiers looking out for the safety of its citizens," the queen replies. “What you are doing is pursue the interests of the Council”.

"Ma’am, you know that being so far from home anything poses a threat," Alvan replies, not even looking angry at the monarch's protests. “It's only fair to have the three of us as their caretakers”.

They exchanged glances for a few seconds before the queen nodded and continued her way around the stalls of other merchants. As she passed by the blacksmith's, Cassandra's eyes lit up as she saw the beautiful design of the swords that seemed to have been forged just to be beautiful.

She made a mental note to return to that place during her next break. Maybe could ask Elsa where to get a souvenir. Without realizing it, they arrived right in a small square where the host royal family was raising their flag.

King Agnarr gave a speech thanking all the guests for their presence and reminisced about what Arendelle stood for along with courageous anecdotes about how it was built.

Somehow, the atmosphere suddenly became dense, Cass could swear that the silence made by the inhabitants presaged the beginning of a tragedy. Queen Iduna, behind her husband, looked the most uncomfortable.

Perhaps the other nobles did not notice these subtle changes because they began to clap politely, followed by others suspiciously more enthusiastic in the crowd, convincing her that the story told by the king was incomplete and shamelessly embellished.

Suddenly, she felt eyes on her. Turned to her right, seeing Rapunzel a few feet away, who was whispering something in Eugene's ear, to which he smiled awkwardly before nodding at her words.

In fact, the real reason why she tried to hide in the alley, where she bumped into the princesses of Arendelle, was to avoid an awkward encounter with those two as left the bakery.

She knew that if Rapunzel found out that she didn't continue the journey in search of her destination, would persuade her to return to Corona. She tried, really tried to leave Eldora on more than one occasion; However, going nowhere was not a feasible long-term plan.

She shook her head, convinced that they were hallucinations: Raps wasn't looking for her, but making plans with her husband to get those delicious exotic recipes they discovered during their short stay.

Composing herself, she met the curious gaze of Elsa, who seemed to have studied her for a long time. That girl was charming and looked to be interested in her. She didn't treat her like a freak, but as her equal. Involuntarily, Cassandra gave a small smile, her heart racing as she saw Elsa returned the same gesture.

In a secluded corner, curiously full of people, a spectacle caught Queen Marisol’s attention. It was a hand-to-hand combat with training swords between an Arendellian royal guard and anyone who dared to challenge him.

The guy was young, tall, stocky, and exuded confidence from every pore. Even in his official uniform, made up of heavy fabrics, there was not a drop of sweat on his forehead. The crowd cheered him on loudly, completely proud.

Cass believed that no one would enter to fight, but a line of citizens immediately formed eager to try their luck. Contrary to her initial assumptions, all participants knew how to properly hold the weapon, as well as being properly trained in combat.

It didn't take long for her to understand the rules: the result was defined by who managed to make the first bloodor knock the opponent down inside the circle drawn on the ground. As a prize, the winner got the cumulative amount of the fee for fighting, and until that moment no one had claimed it.

"Anyone else dares to challenge Lieutenant Syversen?!" Asks the referee, raising the wooden swords.

Queen Marisol turned to her guards, challenging them to compete. Omar tapped Cass in the ribs, encouraging her to come in. They weren't exactly friends, although they had a certain kind of complicity, and, of course, he liked her more than Alvan.

She may have been smaller and thinner than the other soldier, but her technique was renowned. She had beaten opponents more imposing or dangerous than Syversen.

"I'll do it," she declares aloud, stepping forward with a silver coin corresponding to the fee.

"Of course," the presenter smiles solemnly. “What is the name of the brave challenger?”

Was pleasantly surprised that the comment wasn't loaded with sarcasm or bad intentions. He didn't seem to underestimate her because she was a woman. Cass wondered if all Arendellians were that polite.

"Lieutenant Krone, Eldora's royal guard," she smiles as feels the strength of the new name adopted when she left and was slowly building a good reputation.

Once they were in position, she waited a few seconds before Syversen launched the first attack: a downward swing that went to her side. She managed to stop him with her weapon, satisfied by the bewildered gesture in her adversary.

She hurled the second attack with a swift thrust barely dodged by the guy, who responded with an aggressive counterattack. The exhibition began to attract spectators who bet higher and higher sums.

Neither seemed to budge, Syversen was slow to pull himself together, though he didn't falter when it came to swinging the sword. Cassandra deduced that it would be impossible to beat him by fighting offensively, but she had no advantage when defending. Her only chance to succeed was to take advantage of the points she neglected when he attacked her.

She chooses to continue throwing swipes and moving quickly, forcing the guard to chase after her and go at her pace. It just needed to wobble a little to deliver the final blow. Her strategy seemed to be working, suddenly something seemed to distract Syversen, and he accidentally stepped on one of the edges of the circle. His bewilderment gave Cass the space to approach his neck from below and end the event, staring into his eyes.

The crowd was silent for several seconds before cheering, chanting her name as if she had done a legendary feat.

"We've got a new winner!" The presenter announces, raising Cass's arm, accompanied by the applause of the people.

A smile spread across her face as she watched as the spectators seemed delighted with the show she had put on, to the point of being a bit overwhelming without feeling artificial. Handed a bag full of a small fortune that she had no idea how she would spend. It was more than enough to take a couple of months off, living comfortably.

"Awesome, Lieutenant Krone," the soldier smiles, offering her a hand.

"I say the same," She replies, accepting the gesture.

Saw Omar celebrate excitedly with Queen Marisol, nodding proudly as she received a small wooden box from Princess Elsa who looked disappointed, although she felt that deep down was congratulating her.

She couldn't hear all the exchange of words between them, but the smile on Arendellian princess face seemed like a clear indication that she wasn't upset. She approached the group carrying her bounty, bowing in front of the noble women, as a sign of respect.

"Excellent job, Lieutenant," Queen Marisol says, patting her on the shoulder. “You can take tomorrow off thanks to this display of heroism”.

"I really appreciate it, Your Majesty, but you don't have to," Cassandra denies.

Except for Alvan, it was easier for Omar to lose sight of Her Majesty among the escorts. It was likely that the queen wanted a moment alone wandering around Arendelle Castle, away from the persistent figure of Cassandra, and used that little incentive as an excuse.

With a playful push, Queen Marisol finally brought her closer to Princess Elsa. Cass shifted uncomfortably at this casual contact, surprised by the sudden change in her boss's respectable demeanor.

"It's an order," she insists sternly. “I don't want to see you lurking behind me. Why do you refuse to accept a break?”

Queen Marisol walked away accompanied by Omar and Alvan, leaving her alone with Elsa. She wanted to follow them and do her duty, after all, how could a simple game which proved nothing, be enough to abstain her from her responsibilities?

"Well done," Elsa whispers, patting her on the back. “If you ever look for work, the Arendellian royal guard would be happy to receive you, Lieutenant Krone”.

Murmurs were heard among the people as they saw Elsa leave. Cass even heard a "The princess is looking for your replacement, Karl." She turned to Syversen, who was laughing along with his friends and didn't seem worried.

It bothered her how ridiculously happy and respectful the Arendellians were. Something was wrong there.

"Where have you been, Elsa?" Anna asks, meeting her sister on way. “Father sent half the guard to look for you... don’t worry, he doesn't seem to be angry”.

"He wouldn't have any reason to be," Elsa smiles, following the trail to Hudson's Heart, a usual gathering point for less formal celebrations. “Everyone is delighted with the festival, it was a brilliant idea to display our tradable items this way, Princess Anna”.

Anna smiled proudly, her proposals were not usually taken very seriously by the Council as they were considered unworkable; were it not for Elsa's intervention, such diplomatic visits would be limited to a bland dinner with a formal dance.

Usually, the lords were somewhat reticent about the rapprochement of the royal family with the commoners, they insisted on keeping their distance and imposing themselves as leaders, something that the girls never learned to do.

They knew from a young age that their mother was born a commoner and grew up in an orphanage. Their father, despite being a prince, never closed the castle or his heart to his people, preferring to marry for love rather than make an alliance with a powerful country.

Being daughters of such upright people, the least they had to do was respect their legacy: behave as their rank deserved, while remaining good human beings.

"It's an honor to receive your compliments, Your Highness," Anna jokes, giving her a little push with her shoulder before entering the premises. “Although it's a shame that we weren't allowed to make a huge chocolate fountain in the center of the square. Speaking of chocolate, I thought I had sent you to Blodget Bakery to get a special batch”.

"Maybe I've lost them along the way," Elsa excuses herself, a little nervously.

"The blameless Elsa of Arendelle losing something?" Anna replies incredulously. “Sister, I usually do that... what did you do to them?”

Applying an inquisitive gaze on the eldest, she waited for the truth to come to the surface. Elsa was dense and could hide things from everyone except Anna.

"I lost a bet against the queen of Eldora," she mutters, looking away, hugging herself.

"Seriously?" Anna laughs loudly. “You are betting and lose things?... who are you and what did you do to my sister? Have you entered the twenty-year crisis?”

"That's enough, Anna," Elsa asks, smiling too, her cheeks flushed with embarrassment. “I promise I'll give you my desserts for the rest of the month, let's just keep this a secret, shall we?”

With a quick nod, they clasped hands to enter Hudson's Heart. She wouldn't admit it out loud, but Anna was proud of those freedoms Elsa was beginning to try, they were tiny steps that brought her out of her shell.

The people inside weren't high dignitaries or nobles with bombastic titles, they were the people of Arendelle, delighted to see a promising future in them.

Chapter Text

Cassandra prowled all over the festival stalls for several minutes, pretending not to hear the comments that the vendors made as she passed. It would be hard to hide in those orange and gold hues on her guard uniform.

She bought some cupcakes at the same bakery she visited in the morning, where understood the reason for the fuss after her performance.

"She was the one who defeated Princess Elsa's bodyguard," someone muttered.

"Do you think they'll take over from Syversen?" Another person asked, indiscreetly. “He's a good guy, but they know how paranoid the Council members are.”

"I heard that Princess Elsa was present during the fight," added a third. “Imagine the embarrassment she felt at seeing one of the best soldiers being vanquished in our own kingdom.”

Fortunately, within all those phrases that were difficult to interpret, there were also compliments to her technique, the strength she had to have and her experience as a fighter to beat an elite member of the royal guard.

Reluctantly, she returned to the castle, surprised at the few people inside, almost all of them staff and guards on their regular assignments. Without intending to, she saw Queen Marisol admiring the design of the place.

"You've found us," Omar says friendly, indicating that she could come closer. “Did you discover anything interesting?”

"Lieutenant Syversen is assigned to the royal family of Arendelle," Cass replies, shrugging her shoulders.

"That enhances your accomplishment even more, doesn't it?" Queen Marisol interjects, sounding as if she already knows that, without taking her eyes off the castle's facade. “General Talha told me on more than one occasion about your great talent. I had the good fortune to see you today, Lieutenant Krone.”

They stood, for a considerable time, watching only the wind wave the flags on the towers.

She had to admit that the Arendellians had excellent architectural taste, not only oriented to aesthetics, but also to functionality. The structural materials managed to project power, without being ostentatious.

A flash of the sun at dusk brought her back to reality, accompanied by the gradual drop in temperature. It was such a different climate from home, even Cass missed the scorching heat for a few seconds.

"If it's not indiscretion, Your Majesty, what did you bet on Princess Elsa?" Cassandra asks as she accompanied them inside the building.

Queen Marisol was still holding in her hands the richly decorated wooden box she had received. They were the kind of things that you didn't buy as a gift, but for your own use. Perhaps Elsa trusted her soldier too much.

"Would you like to try them? It's kind of a very sweet dessert, I guarantee it's delicious," she says, opening the lid to hand everyone a small square wrapped in gold foil. “I'm sure you'll love it”.

Alvan opened his carefully, revealing a dark brown block that gave off a subtle scent. He frowned before tasting it and smiling at the taste, which was different from the kind of treats he frequented. Omar followed suit, although his gesture wasn't satisfied, it probably wasn't the sweet type.

"Chocolate," Cass says, frowning at the smell.

"Do you know this?" The queen questions confused, a product like that was not used in Eldora, she had discovered it during her travels abroad.

"Yes... No... I—" Cassandra stutters, unaware of how much her boss knew about her past. "My father used to give me one every month when I was a child, it was a special reward if I fulfilled my duties."

Without elaborating, she surmised that Queen Marisol would assume that she was the daughter of a merchant or sailor visiting other nations, Eldora being an obligatory port for several busy trade routes. Maybe it worked because she didn't ask any more questions.

"Then it will bring back fond memories, Cassandra," the queen smiles, calling her by first name for the first time since she began working for her. “Go ahead and explore Arendelle. You've earned it.”

"Your Majesty...”

"I insist," she says, taking her hands. “You know, you have a chance to relax and have fun. I know you never leave the castle in Eldora, not even on your days off. Taking care of me is your job, not your life. I don't need your services tomorrow.”

Those words scarred her, she stopped dead in her tracks halfway down the hall with a warm feeling in her chest. She hadn't felt appreciated for a long time. Perhaps she misjudged Queen Marisol, now she understood why the Eldoran adored her. She wasn't a chaotic whirlwind of goodwill, but she was still a considerate person.

Leaving the large private celebration among some of Anna's acquaintances at Hudson's Heart, Elsa returned to the castle answering the greetings of every passerby who saw her passing. She didn't want to admit it out loud but was especially happy about the recent events.

A spark of hope had lodged in her heart. Making friends was a complex process, however, there was a remote possibility of forging a friendship with Cassandra. Even if she never saw her again in her life, she hoped that she would at least teach her one or two of her swords moves.

She was enraptured by her performance in that street challenge. Karl Syversen was considered one of the best swordsmen in Arendelle, the only person to hold a fight with him for more than five minutes was Anna, who spent months training under his tutelage. Cassandra had to be at least as high a skill level as the guard.

Also, she seemed to have experience fighting for real. In her eyes she had glimpsed that defiant gleam that is acquired only when life depends on the mastery of weapons. No soldier of the most recent generations had that kind of experience, and deep down, Elsa hoped they would never acquire it.

"Your Highness," Cassandra greets unexpectedly, rising from the steps at the entrance to the castle.

She didn't think that kind of thing happened every day, was a little startled when she saw her, before cracking a half-smile. They had only known each other for two days, but these unexpected encounters made her feel like it was longer.

"You defeated my personal guard and appear out of nowhere in places where I'm present," Elsa says with a slight smile. “Should I feel particularly threatened?”

"No, not at all," Cassandra interrupts seriously. “It has never been my intention to harm you.”

Somehow, she knew that Cassandra was reluctant to take the opportunity to become friends; After all, her job required her to be suspicious. Although she also acknowledged that they hit it off, the conversation they had while avoiding the party was anything but boring.

They really enjoyed the time they shared.

"I'll try to believe you," Elsa relents, nodding for her to follow. “Your queen got a small batch of the best chocolate in Arendelle, I think it was a brilliant deal for Eldora.”

She had a hard time admitting it, but that little bribe to Queen Marisol to let Cassandra rest was perhaps the best deal Arendelle would ever make with Eldora.

"I suppose it was," Cass agrees, seeing that they were going to a remote part of the castle. “Where does it take me?”

The walls of that hallway were upholstered in an elegant pattern that slightly masked the fact that it felt suffocating. It was so neat and empty to the point of causing revulsion.

"To the library, I have to pick up some papers.”

"And that's what you need me for?" Cassandra asks, stopping.

Elsa wanted to grab her by the wrist and drag her the missing section, as Anna had certainly done with her on more than one occasion; however, she hadn't gained enough confidence to invade Cassandra's personal space, and it would certainly be uncomfortable for both.

"It's a place where no one will bother us," the princess declares, focusing on the dismayed expression of the other woman. She'd heard some comments on the street about it. “I'm used to people talking behind my back, it's part of the job, it shouldn't be for you.”

«You'd be surprised at the kind of comments they make about me», Cassandra thought, shaking her head. Elsa's blue eyes seemed sincerely concerned about her, but she wasn't being condescending or looking at her with pity.

"Your Highness, why are you still interested in me?" The guard asked.

"It's hard for me to explain... You might be surprised," she explains, suddenly shy. “I don't usually do this kind of thing for people unless I think it's worth it. The concept of friendship is difficult for me to understand. You don't fit the prototype, but you seem nice.”

"Nice is not a word associated with me. And I'm not surprised at all," Cassandra says, cocking her head. “It's hard for a royal to make true friendships.”

"Besides, you seem to know a lot about royals," she added wryly. “You received a good education.”

They resumed their march a little more confidently, walking shoulder to shoulder, trying to contain the growing excitement that lodged inside them. Elsa always had trouble defining what she felt, trying to rationalize her feelings, letting herself be carried away by them was not in her nature and she was somehow allowing it to happen.

"I practically grew up in the castle," Cassandra whispers without Elsa hearing her, before adding audibly, "I'm observant, so where's your lady-in-waiting or your bodyguard?"

"The escort is unnecessary in such a quiet place, and I think you know there's a guard stationed at every corner," the princess smiles. “Instead, Gerda helps me with the activities, but she's not exactly a lady-in-waiting. If she were, she would be in my mother's service, not mine.”

This time it was Elsa who stopped dead in front of a heavy wooden door that she opened effortlessly. Glancing around the library, Cassandra couldn't contain her astonishment. It was bigger than Corona Royal Library, which in fact already qualified as huge. The shelves were so high that they reached the ceiling and were arranged in neat rows, crammed with books on all subjects.

"Impressive, don't you think?" Elsa boasts, entering as if she had always done so. “Almost every volume here has a copy in the town library.”

She walked to a table in the middle of a small reading room, picking up some rolled-up papers that were left on it. Behind her, a large window revealed a beautiful view of the city. It was the perfect place to run a kingdom.

"So that's all?" Cassandra asks sarcastically.

"All about what?" Elsa asks, arching an eyebrow. “It's a private place where you can do something useful in your free afternoon. You don't seem excited about the idea of touring the surroundings of the city and I admit that there is not much to see”.

"I didn't mean the place... I mean, you have no reason to keep talking to me," the foreigner explains. “I understand yesterday's incident and I will be able to bear that today you choose to ignore me. Just I can't understand it.”

Silence settled in like an overwhelming blanket. Cassandra was right to be confused, because she stood out among the commoners, but for the nobility she was disposable. In chess, Elsa would be the player, Cass a pawn.

"There's something about you that won't reassure me," the princess says quietly. “Don't take it the wrong way, I respect you and admire your work; although I am the one who deciphers people, who proposes solutions and makes decisions. I haven't managed to do any with you.”

"Princess," Cassandra murmurs, bewildered. “If you are looking for a friend, Queen Marisol would be delighted to be one, she would understand...”

"It really doesn't," Elsa interrupts. “I have no doubt that she is a wonderful person, and sooner or later I will work with it, it is inevitable. You, there's more in you, I know. There are so many things I want to learn, and you can offer me: your combat techniques, knowing what you faced in the army and from that being able to prepare my troops.”

Elsa didn't believe in love at first sight, she was clear about her thoughts on the matter: the admiration for Cassandra outweighed the initial attraction. Beyond a romantic ideal, she wanted their friendship and teachings. Just as Anna learned from the people, she found in her someone from whom she could gain knowledge that no other person could give her.

"It's not a smart move to hand over state secrets to a foreign military officer, Your Highness," Cassandra jokes.

"I still don't trust you, Krone," she smiles mischievously. “But as colleagues, I hope my word has value for you.”

"It does," Cassandra agrees, offering her a hand. “I don't trust you either, although you also have my word of honor. Whatever must be secret, will stay that way.”

By accepting the gesture, they realized the abyss of differences behind them. One was born to be a leader; the other didn't know exactly what her destiny was. Somehow fate had made them meet, because it was hard for them to believe that each other's existence was a coincidence or accident.

After dinner and a series of awkward incidents in the portrait gallery where a heated argument broke out about sled racing, Anna entered her sister's bedroom with a sigh of relief. Being good hosts was exhausting and she didn't know how would endure the remaining three days.

She loved meeting new people, swapping stories, hearing about their kingdoms, and smoothing the playing field before Elsa or her parents would step in to talk about politics, trade treaties, or other boring things at work; But now she had to deal with the whole package on her own.

Elsa had been busy being the intermediary in cooperation agreements, making drafts and presenting various products open for export. Meanwhile, she ran out of funny anecdotes with which she entertained the rest of the guests prior to her sessions with the king and queen or the future queen.

"Difficult day?" Her sister asks from her bed, before putting down the book she was reading. “Has the mystery been solved about whether dogs or reindeer are better at sled racing?”

"Where were you when I needed you?" Anna reproaches, dropping dramatically on the mattress. “Do you have any idea how dreadful it is to deal with the children of dignitaries? Now I understand why you were opposed to these events.”

Hearing her older sister's laughter immediately made her feel better. Elsa wasn't used to showing her emotions in public and even in private it was difficult for her to express them, so she knew that every gesture she allowed her to see was sincere.

"There's no itinerary tomorrow, so you can enjoy the festival like an ordinary girl," Elsa suggests, humorously.

"I actually invited Corona’s Princess and her husband to participate in the lingonberry pick,” Anna smiles, lying down next to her. “You could come with us; they seem to be nice people.”

"I have plans with a friend," Elsa courteously declines.

Trying to contain her astonishment, Anna grimaced strangely in confusion. Elsa had a handful of colleagues from the royal guard with whom she got along, she was friend with a few princesses who were heirs of their countries, although she did not consider any of them very close and they did not make it to the event either.

The only different person she saw her exchanging words with beyond a polite greeting or something diplomatic, was Eldora's guard.

"Is that the girl in the alley?" Anna asks, guarding her enthusiasm. “It's great, Elsa. Wow, you're not as lonely as you make the world believe. It's so brave of you to approach the person who defeated Lieutenant Syversen.”

"It's the stupidest thing I've ever done," Elsa confesses, reverting to her usual pessimism. “I don't think she's dangerous. She's smart, traveled a lot… I'm just getting to know her and there are a lot of things I like about her.”

Anna smiled at this facet of vulnerability. Her reserved sister had a hard time opening to anyone, she was kind but not approachable. If the Eldoran Guard managed to break through the ice shelf a bit, then it was worth letting things flow.

"If she makes any suspicious moves, just pull out your sword and attack her," Anna jokes, throwing a pillow at her. “If you get a little bored of your tour of the kingdom, then go pick up lingonberries with us, remember that normal people don't like to talk about the profitability of freight transport.”

She didn't expect to receive the icy impact of a snowball stamped on her face, however, if there was one thing, she learned from living with Elsa, it was to respect the uniqueness of her magic.

"Win this battle, Captain Árnadalr," Anna hisses, brushing the traces of snow from her face. “I will retire, but the war is not over. Good night.”

She gave her a hug and went back to her room to try to sleep. There were so many things to process that it was difficult for her to fall asleep, when she did it her mind could not cope with the happiness generated by noticing her sister's progress. The situation left her feeling good and she trusted her instincts, tomorrow would be a great day.

As soon as she woke up, Elsa knew she had to act discreetly to avoid any possible scandal. While it was true that she was not restricted by the people she could approach, no one would take it lightly if she took a foreign soldier to see the environs of the kingdom without a bodyguard.

In fact, even the plan sounded absurd in her mind, she seemed to ignore all the strict training she received during her life. However, she had taken several precautions, including not allowing any kind of authentic weapon, staying in Arendelle territory, and passing through guard posts to ensure her own safety.

She had donned her military uniform and a white cloak, knowing that she would not be questioned or tried to be dragged into other activities during the line of duty, and even if it was for selfish ends, she had a solid alibi. She crept out of her room, in an attempt not to wake anyone.

The lights were still dim, and nothing but shadows could be distinguished. She walked silently through the corridors of the castle, greeting the few guards awake at that hour. Some employees were surprised. Elsa used to get up early, but not so early. Just as she guessed, no one stood in her way.

 She continued to a lonely, empty space on the lower floors of the West Wing, which was rarely used. At first, she thought that the foreign guards would rest in the cabins of the ship that brought them or in the army barracks, however, hearing that this was not the case she was curious to see the place.

When she reached the door Cassandra had mentioned, she was surprised by the current state of that section, as she wondered who the person in charge of the room assignment was. The intention to make the work of the guests' employees more difficult was notorious.

She tapped her knuckles softly, before the door opened. Unlike the green, purple, and black hues of Elsa's uniform, Cassandra's contrasted brown, orange, and gold, hidden beneath a dark cloak.

"Your Highness," Cassandra greets with a bow.

"Captain," Elsa corrects, pointing to her outfit. “So, are you sleeping here?”

"It's close to the queen," she jokes, following her in the direction of the exit. “Don't you know your own castle, princess?”

"Captain," Elsa insists, suppressing a smile. “Never mind. Come on, I'm not going to let you regret it halfway through the escape.”

They passed through several corridors, until they reached the kitchen where one of the employees was carefully watching the fire, without noticing that there were other people inside the room. Elsa stuffed some food into her saddlebag, taking advantage of the carelessness. They continued walking to the service door that led right to a huge entrance where the supplies came in.

"Don't have a schedule to cover today?" Cassandra asks, bewildered.

"There's not much to do, I've done my part of the job, the king will take care of the rest," Elsa assures us, guiding her to the royal stables. “It's hours before the shops open, so I can't promise you anything more fun than a sunrise in the mountains.”

The beautiful horses waited patiently for their food rations, they were tended by a groom who at that moment brushed Havski and Fjøra, two of the best specimens in the whole kingdom. Although Havski was one of Anna's favorites, Elsa assumed she wouldn't mind if she borrowed it.

"Captain Árnadalr," the young man greets respectfully. “What do you need?”

"Get two horses ready," she asks kindly. “If anyone asks, I went for a walk, got it?”

The groom nodded, going to get the necessary equipment. They both remained silent, looking for any topic of conversation that didn't sound trivial. Once the steeds were ready, they mounted and led them to the nearest exit.

The guards stationed at the service gate did not interfere when they recognized Elsa, opening immediately, revealing the deserted road to the town. They hurried across the bridge, shuddering as they felt the cold wind blowing from the fjord toward the mountains.

"I'm so sorry if coming with me is boring," Elsa apologizes after a while.

"If I didn't want to go with you, I wouldn't have agreed," Cassandra shrugs it off. “You asked me to use my day off to teach you for free, I think that show my willingness to be here.”

"No, I... I can pay you; I'll pay you," Elsa stammers, holding Havski's reins. “How much do you consider appropriate?”

The landscape full of tall trees with thick foliage obscured the route, in the distance they began to hear the hooting of owls, she noticed that one of them was following them a short distance away. Too short to be a coincidence.

"Arendelle is such a strange realm," Cassandra laughs, distracting Elsa from her thoughts. “I can't accept money, it would lead to misinterpretation, but you could give me the recipe for the cupcakes they served during the dance.”

"Sure, I'll ask the royal cook when we get back," Elsa agrees, taking the long path to her secret spot. “I didn't know you were fond of baking.”

"I'm not, they're just... things.”

They passed by a military station where the soldiers signaled to stop them. Elsa removed her hood, revealing her face, although unlike the royal guards, they did not make a single gesture of recognition.

"Captain Árnadalr, assigned to Arendelle Castle," Elsa introduces herself, her head held high. “I'm accompanied by Lieutenant Krone, Eldora's guest advisor.”

"We need to check your equipment, Captain," one of the men asks, approaching. “It is a formality, requested by Her Royal Highness.”

They examined what little luggage they had with them and, verifying that it did not include any weapons, they let them go. They said goodbye solemnly. The girls resumed their route to Elsa's secret site.

"Wow, and everyone respects your military assignment even if you're their princess?" Cassandra asks, riding alongside her.

"People who live out of town don't always know my identity," Elsa explains, running a hand over Havski's mane. “The last time I visited the mountain villages, as Princess Elsa, I think I was twelve. “

The vegetation began to disperse, giving way to an overwhelming view. The horses slowed down as they knew they had reached their destination. The water in the fjord was dark, the sky was beginning to take on blue, violet, and orange hues. The light filtering in from the horizon reflected off Cassandra's face, accentuating her beauty.

"What really happened?" Elsa asks, descending from the steed.

"Excuse me, Your Highness?" Cassandra asks, frowning, dismounting.

They tied the animals on a low branch. They took off their cloaks, unpacked their food, and prepared to eat breakfast, dividing the provisions into equal portions, sitting down on the floor. A strange picnic, but comfortable.

"Over there with my sister," Elsa clarifies, handing her a canteen of water. “I know you didn't get lost; I've seen you in the care of Queen Marisol, you wouldn't neglect your position.”

"Your Majesty is unpredictable," Cassandra sighs, smiling. “I don't want you to insist, Captain. It's my business.”

Elsa nodded, deciding to let her keep her secret. Inside she was brimming with excitement, she was more than ready to learn all the things Cassandra was willing to teach her.

Chapter Text

She liked the weather that day: mild, not too humid, with a refreshing wind that swept the salty, herbaceous aroma into her nostrils. Arendelle was a strong candidate to become her new favorite kingdom.

"Captain of the Royal Guard," Cassandra laughs, swinging a wooden sword. “In other realms, they would take that as madness. No one sees Arendelle as a warlike country. Raise your guard.”

The sun rose slowly, tracing its path across the sky. Cass was really having fun. At first, she believed that Elsa was just another noble with a birthday gift military rank, but she pleasantly found that her skills went beyond etiquette fencing.

"We've tried not to antagonize neighboring countries. I'd rather rule a nation like that," Elsa explains, taking a breath of air, slowing the attack. “My grandfather died at the hands of people in the north who could easily cause problems for our kingdom. And twelve years ago, a horrible disease decimated the Navy, along with much of the reserve army.”

"Attention," she says sternly. “Peace can't last forever," Cass retorts, gritting her teeth. “Whoever knows when to fight will win.”

"Weapons should only be used when there is no other alternative," Elsa quotes, with a certain haughtiness. “You're not the only one who's read about war tactics.”

"Is that why mandatory military service returned?" She asked sarcastically, adopting a defensive posture. “Keep an eye on your flanks.”

She disarmed Elsa again and couldn't help but smile with pride. That girl was not harmless, but a skilled warrior. Elsa was a quick learner, Cass found it harder and harder to find weak spots, she withstood every onslaught without stumbling.

"Yes," the princess confirms, retrieving the training sword. “To set a good example, the Council decided that Anna and I, being of age, should also serve for two years, however, given our frequent absences due to royal duties, that was extended to five.”

"Nowhere else would kings let their children do what you do. Sure, some princes are taught how to use weapons, but they'll never go into combat," Cassandra says, trying to block her thrusts. “It's admirable. It seems that it was not a waste of time that I joined Eldora's army and ran into you.”

Without realizing her position, she tripped over her own feet, losing her balance and hitting the ground. Elsa's sword came inches from her neck, and she made a sign of surrender.

She smiled broadly, accepting Elsa's hand who helped her to her feet. She wondered how, despite all those hours they had been practicing, the princess's skin was still cold. So cold that it even penetrated the fabric of her gloves.

"Good job. I need a break," Cass asks, calming her breathing. “I haven't done this in a while. It's more intense than I remembered.”

Elsa nodded, handing her the canteen of water. They leaned against a log under the shade of the trees. She had finally accepted the day of rest offered to her by Queen Marisol, believing that she would spend it at the castle's training ground, correcting the bad technique of a princess who would give up before noon. She didn't think she'd enjoy teaching someone she was really intending to learn.

"Don't be condescending, Cassandra," Elsa reproaches, smiling.

"I couldn't be with you, Your Highness," Cass replies without thinking.

They remained silent for a while, trying not to be uncomfortable. The view was beautiful, the contrast between the forest, the cliffs and the fjord made her feel on the edge of the world and the princess’s presence was reassuring. Just as Cass was about to ask her about the swords in the blacksmith's shop, a blinding flash swept across the ground where they stood, like a concentrated sunbeam reflected against a mirror.

They both followed the direction of the light source, running toward the top of the cliff. They swept their gaze along the coast, where a strange sight took their breath away. Stranded on the rocky slopes of the Arenfjord, a merchant ship was shaking dangerously. Whatever had happened, it deserved their attention.

"How did that get there?" Cassandra asks, frowning.

"I have no idea. I can't see its flag or anything that could identify it," Elsa observes. “We should go investigate.”

Concern settled on her face, forcing Cassandra to follow her without reproach, returning to the place where the horses were tied. They packed their belongings in their saddlebags, loosened their knots, and mounted quickly.

The atmosphere of comfort dissipated in an instant, however, instead of wanting to distance herself, she encouraged her to stay by Elsa's side. She didn't know if her presence would be helpful, though it seemed wiser to offer help.

"The crew must be nearby," Cassandra says, spurring Fjøra on. “But it doesn't make sense, the port is not far away, and the lighthouse is in operation from dusk to dawn.”

"I thought that too. We would have heard from the castle early if they had called for help, or at least rumors in the village," Elsa agrees, leading her down a steep path. “I don't like it at all.”

She nodded at those suspicions. In the best-case scenario, it would be a group of merchants who deviated at night and did not know how to re-enter the port or were smugglers evading the payment of taxes to the crown; At worst, they were potential criminals, or an enemy army determined to strike a blow during the festivities.

Cassandra hoped, with all her soul, that Arendelle would not be in danger.

The coast was much farther from the shipwreck than Elsa originally assumed, whoever had made up the ship's crew had already abandoned ship.

Everything about the accident was unsettling. The weather conditions in the region were not usually extreme, especially not at that time of year. There were no treacherous ocean currents capable of crashing a ship against the rocks or pulling it off its safe course, those were the virtues that characterized Arendelle as the safest port in the region. The only plausible hypothesis was that an inexperienced navigator was behind the helm in complete darkness.

The bow had split, and a huge crack stretched the length of the hull revealing its interior, the splintered floors and gunpowder marks left as evidence of a series of explosions along with some partially charred human remains. The image wasn't pretty, but Elsa forced her stomach to hold back her breakfast.

In addition to the absence of a flag or cargo of merchandise, it had cells distributed in what was supposed to be the warehouse area and cabins. The basic prototype of the ships that carried prisoners.

Bewildered, the princess got off her horse, getting as close as possible, until the sea water began to lick the soles of her boots. Havski snorted annoyed, the animal hated to change the pace and was anxious about Elsa's concern.

"Do you see the same thing I see?" Elsa asks, pointing to the open doors.

"This is bad," Cassandra replies, completely pale and terrified in her eyes. “Does your rank as a captain have any real power over the rest of the army?”

"That's a little offensive," Elsa protests, riding back on. “Yes, I do. Moreover, my orders can only be vetoed by the King of Arendelle or the Minister of War if I give them as a princess. You know what it's all about, right? How much should I be worried?”

They changed the direction of the horses, returning along the path that led them to the city. Elsa didn't know exactly what was happening, though she had mapped out some conjectures in her mind before seeing the crash with her own eyes, which was only strengthened by what little she could visualize of the wreckage.

"Do you trust me?" Cassandra's question came out almost like a plea.

"I'll if you tell me what's going on."

They sped up their trot and the owl that had followed them earlier that morning descended from the heights to perch on Cassandra's arm who gave the animal some quick directions before it took flight.

"That ship is a floating Corona prison," she blurts out, focused on the route. “Some of the worst criminals in the Seven Kingdoms are there, and there's no reason for them to leave their maritime zone...”

"Unless there's been a riot," Elsa adds, taking in the big picture. “Our Navy didn't stop them because they pass it off as a merchant ship.”

"That's right. If they have some structured plan of looting or revolt, Arendelle would be in a vulnerable position and even without it, the criminals of Corona are a huge risk to civilians," Cassandra adds, seeming genuinely interested. “We must get to the city and deploy all the guards to defend it.”

She considered this plan unfeasible, the distance to be covered was enormous, the population was dispersed by the events of the festival, the royal guard itself was assigned to different positions than usual and there was the possibility that they would decide to attack other towns instead of the capital. The Guard would be of no help, they could only entrust the task to those who continued in their regular posts: the army.

"Not at all, that would cause panic," Elsa decides, forcing Havski to slam on the brakes. “It might be too late between the time we get to the castle, explain everything, convince the authorities, and get the citizens to safety. How many prisoners?”

"Maybe more than twenty and a horse," she hesitates, stopping a little farther on. “I sent Owl to track them down, as soon as he finds them, we can act.”

"Why would they arrest a horse?" She frowns before dismissing it, it wasn't important. “There is a military station nearby, up this hill. It would take us less time to gather them together and plan an ambush to stop them.”

Cassandra nodded, allowing Elsa to guide her down a steep slope that she assumed would be more efficient than circling in search of the safe route. Havski seemed delighted to gallop without restraint, though he resented his rider's mood, becoming increasingly difficult to control.

They stopped in front of the soldiers with whom they had met hours ago, who greeted them with respect, making way for a man in a slightly different uniform than his subordinates. The officer quickly gave the military salute, followed by a polite bow.

"Your Highness, to what do we owe the honor of your visit?" The man asks.

The soldiers began to murmur in bewilderment, not believing in their eyes that they were in the presence of a member of royalty. Some apologized for their behavior and repeated their superior's bow.

"Lieutenant Westen," Elsa replies, stepping off the steed. “I have a task for you, and I need you to act discreetly at my command.”

Cassandra dismounted as well, she hadn't had a chance to put her cloak back on, so her uniform added to the commotion of the group. Elsa took her wrist gently, giving it a reassuring squeeze.

"Who is she?" Lieutenant Westen asks. “Your Highness, we can't...”

"Listen carefully, Lieutenant," Elsa asks, pointing to her uniform. “I came here not as a member of the royal family who will send you to face unknown enemies, I will be by your side to fight with you, like Captain Árnadalr. Lieutenant Krone is a friend and I'll vouch for her, is that clear?”

Jorgen Westen was a few years older than her, serving as an instructor during the basic training of Elsa's group of recruits. He had built his military career organically, without generous sponsors or deliberate promotions, and was recognized as one of the best strategists in the Arendellian army.

The only thing preventing him from joining the royal guard, the elite group to which many soldiers aspired, was not having a powerful protector to advocate for him to the most senior officers. He had reason enough to be reluctant to cooperate.

"Yes, ma’am," he replies reluctantly. “Follow me, the headquarters is over here.”

Just as Cassandra imagined, the army armory was well stocked with equipment as precious and lethal as the ones she had seen in the blacksmith shop the day before. She had agreed to Elsa's request to leave her sword in the castle, as a safety measure, though she regretted it a little now.

Arendellian weapons were lighter and sharper than she was used to, they wouldn't stand up to armored combat, but they would be terrible considering modern military uniforms. She chose a one-handed sword and a pair of daggers, tucked one between the folds of her coat, the other in her boot.

Elsa was pointing on a map spread out on the desk to the site where they found the wrecked ship, explaining the threat they faced. Westen nodded, locking in possible hiding places throughout the woods, whether they had abandoned ship before or after impact.

He seemed to be a decent and intelligent fellow, did not disregard Elsa's suggestions, and consulted his subordinates as well; He was prepared for anything, constantly optimizing the resources he had at his disposal to stop the threat and not neglect the allocation.

Cass was concerned about the suspicious number of coincidences that favored conditions for the alleged attackers, to the point appearing planned in advance. She tried not to rush her conclusions, unlike Corona, neither Arendelle nor their royal family had any known public enemies.

She listened for a while to the Arendellians who, instead of arguing loudly as normal people would in the face of a possible catastrophe, seriously resolved their differences, yielding reason to their colleagues more times in fifteen minutes than the Eldorans had done in the year and a half she had been with them.

Suddenly, Owl appeared fluttering in front of the window, Cass opened it allowing him to pass. The animal handed her a piece of dirty cloth that it had in its claws and some leaves of a particular shape in its beak.

"Owl found them," Cassandra reports, bringing the items to the others. “I would like to be of more use, but I am not familiar with the botany of your country.”

"This helps us a lot," Lieutenant Westen thanks, looking at them. “Birches. It seems that our targets are not very smart, or they are injured, I estimate that they are less than a mile from the site of the accident, there is a grove of trees nearby. I know the place.”

The soldiers stood in formation, presenting their weapons. They were young, well-trained, but inexperienced. She hoped the element of surprise would work in their favor. The criminals of Corona were a challenge, even to the Corona Guard itself.

"Okay," Elsa nods, glancing at Cass. “There are twenty of us, omitting those we will keep at their posts and the reinforcements that will arrive with the detention cart. Is there anything else we should know? Am I not sending my soldiers to certain death?”

"We will trust of fighting in your domain, Captain," Cassandra replies, feeling a lump in her throat. “I won't lie to you, there is a risk of getting hurt and it may cause tension between Arendelle and the union of the Seven Kingdoms, however, if we postpone it, it will be too late for diplomacy to matter.”

A dense silence settled in the room. Owl perched on her shoulder, with his huge eyes he seemed to dig into her soul, the creature did not understand Cass's reasons, all those years being his companion did not prepare him to see her bet her life on complete strangers.

"I appreciate your honesty, Lieutenant Krone," Elsa murmurs, sheathing a sword. “We'll keep going, for Arendelle.”

"For Arendelle!" The soldiers chanted.

They filed out to mount their steeds, advancing in order with Lieutenant Westen at the head. Elsa held her wrist to signal her to wait, they positioned themselves in the rear, moving a little away from the others.

"I won't reproach the information, though I need a reason to trust you with my life in case of combat, how do you know all those things?" The princess asked in a tense, barely audible whisper.

"I worked for the royal family of Corona," she replied quietly.

Before reaching the place where the criminals were supposedly hiding, they got off their horses and assigned a couple of soldiers to guard them. The second group, carrying a cart for detainees, would catch up with them in a few minutes. The vegetation of the area made it difficult even to advance on foot. They had to take every possible precaution.

They sent the crossbows first. They walked as quietly as possible around the perimeter until Westen beckoned to the others that he had found them. Unexpectedly, the uniform had given them a kind of camouflage. Cassandra was covered with her cloak to avoid snitching on others.

Just as Westen had supposed, they set up camp in a clearing surrounded by a grove of birch trees. They healed to their wounds, inflicted both by the accident and the struggle with their guards, and exchanged what was left of food.

It must have been a long voyage without touching ports, and they did not seem to be planning a full-scale attack on Arendelle. They besieged the group of bandits before showing up. Just as Cassandra reported, about twenty. Three Corona soldiers were gagged, the others were probably left to their fate or died during the revolt.

"We've got company," says a woman with a bandaged forehead, sniffing the air. “Could someone please do us the honor of introducing us?”

Upon seeing themselves discovered, the whole group advanced until they became visible, still pointing their weapons at them. That wasn't even remotely close to what Elsa imagined, it didn't feel like a heroic defense, but an abuse of power. She turned to Cassandra who seemed to have seen a ghost, betrayed not recognition but pended quarrels.

"You have violated our sea access and entered the territory of the Kingdom of Arendelle illegally," Westen loudly announces. “We have every authority to detain and deport you.”

"On what charges?" A guy with a pointy nose demands to know. “We are poor unfortunate travelers.”

"We got an alert about who you are," Elsa interjects, raising her crossbow, to keep her voice from shaking. “Make things easier for us, and if you surrender you will be judged under the laws of Arendelle, which I can assure you, are less severe than those of Corona.”

The group of foreign miscreants began to murmur inaudibly among themselves, perhaps for the fugitives it was not the usual way to be apprehended either. A staunch expression had been recorded on their faces.

"I think we'd rather bet on our freedom!" A third criminal shouts, drawing a sword.

She didn't know exactly what he meant, until they raised their weapons and threw themselves all together, like a lethal tidal wave, each at a specific soldier. The pointy-nosed man lunged at Elsa, directing all his attacks to kill.

The princess fired the crossbow, and the arrow pierced her rival's knee, causing him to fall to the ground with a groan of pain. She equipped a second arrow that hit the shoulder of the woman who was fighting Cassandra. As she was ready to fire the third, a guy smashed her gun with a swing of a sharp sword.

She narrowly dodged the thrusts and drew her own sword. The man was twice her size, but she was clumsy; Thanks to the few things she learned that morning, knew how to attack him.

They whirled a few yards like a lethal dance, slowly catching each other. She heard the metal hiss near her face, nearly slitting her nose in an upward motion. Instead of panicking, she took advantage of that maneuver that had exposed the opponent's abdomen. Without resistance, the light cloth gave way against the edge of her sword, revealing a life-threatening wound from which blood was gushing.

The bandit doubled over in pain, falling to the grass under his own weight. His clothes were dyed scarlet, and Elsa had to resist the urge to call for help. Instead, she crushed the guy wrist to force him to drop the weapon, which she kicked away to prevent him from retrieving it.

"Captain, watch out!” Cassandra exclaimed, bare-fisted a hooded young man who was preparing to attack Elsa from behind.

They stood facing each other for a few seconds, trying to catch their breath. They were both fascinated. Elsa for her technical and precise combat style, Cass for the grace with which the Arendellian defended herself, without losing elegance or appearing exalted.

"Did you hurt yourself?" Elsa asked, stroking Cassandra’s cheek on impulse.

"No," Cassandra reassures her. “That was close.”

The outlook was encouraging for the Arendellians, who subdued the group without any problems. When everything seemed under control, half a dozen strangers joined the offensive. Cassandra hadn't been wrong; they had a criminal horse.

The arrows had run out, and they could not neglect those they had just subdued. The criminals tracked down the most dangerous targets, going against them.  Even though the soldiers were exhausted, they began a fight so intense that it filled the air with the clanking sound of blocked attacks.

Reluctantly, Cassandra walked away from Elsa, as they each dealt with a different ruffian, listening to Arendelle's soldiers control the rest of those involved. She knew her rival perfectly; he had been in Lady Caine's attack during Rapunzel's coronation. He was strong, but not smart.

"Weren't you the princess of Corona's maid?" The bandit asks, confused as he recognizes her after several minutes of fighting.

"Cassandra," she replies as he falls, after giving him a deep slash in the leg. “My name is Cassandra, and I am Eldora's royal guard.”

She held back the urge to bury the sword in his chest; she was a soldier, not an assassin. The terror in her opponent's eyes reminded her of the way the other inhabitants of Corona looked at her as she carried the moonstone. They were still memories so fresh they haunted her.

"Two years ago, you were fighting for a different flag," the man murmurs, contemptuously, trying to control the bleeding. “I have been accused of theft, vandalism, and sabotage, never of treason. I heard rumors that you almost destroyed your princess's kingdom.”

"I'm sick of hearing you talk," she exclaims.

She struck him over the head with the hilt of her sword with such force that it knocked him unconscious. Westen's team had regained control, surmising malnutrition and exhaustion impaired the ruffians' physical performance; Although deep down Cass wouldn't admit that she was pleasantly surprised.

"You can take this one," she asked the soldiers closest to her. “I'll look for the captain.”

Unlike Cassandra, Elsa was having more trouble with her criminal. She had received a scratch on her forearm, from which some blood was gushing out. She held the sword in her non-dominant hand, thinking of a way to wriggle free without exposing her magic. She didn't see a way out.

The fugitive had separated her from the group, taking their fight to a wooded area, not very dense, where they had hidden some objects that she assumed were stolen from nearby villages. That would generate discontent. If she survived, she would face a group of subjects angry at the lack of attention the royal family paid beyond the capital.

"It's a shame to have to get rid of such a pretty squire," says the bandit, who hid half of his face behind a metal mask. “How did you get admitted to the army? You should be selling cakes or being a teacher in the village school.”

"I don't have to explain myself to a second-rate criminal from Corona," Elsa snaps, giving him a hateful look.

"I propose a deal to save your life," he laughs, lowering his own sword. “I didn't come here to cause trouble; I just want to escape. I swear.”

Her years in politics trained her to detect lies, the stranger was determined to hurt her. And even if he were willing to keep his promise, she couldn't fail in her duty. She had sworn it twice, to the crown and to arms.

"If I let every criminal escape who claims not to want to cause troubles, I wouldn't have become a captain," she growls, clenching the hilt of her weapon.

"You're captain?" The subject hisses. “Sorry if I find it hard to believe.”

Taking advantage of his carelessness, Elsa managed to knock him to the ground by sweeping his feet. She held the sword to his neck, trying to ignore the rancor in his eyes. In her military training, she was prepared to take someone's life, but she never imagined that she would be in a situation that merited it. The idea tempted her even though she knew she couldn't.

"I didn't get far in the army because of my pretty face," the princess protests. “Thanks to this misunderstanding, two countries could be on the cusp of war.”

"They don't have to know," he says arrogantly, throwing a handful of soil in her face.

Dirt particles entered her eyes, causing Elsa to lose her sense of direction. She was unprotected, the metal-faced man snatched the sword from her, taking her hostage.

That would be her end, it wasn't worth dying like that having one last card to play. She concentrated on her magic, causing a drastic drop in the temperature of the environment, icy blasts coming from her hands that materialized in thin spikes around her captor. The ground filled with frost, causing both to slip.

Freed from his grip, she crawled to keep her distance. A shriek of pain pierced her ears, as her vision began to clear. She was terrified by the scene that was revealed: the man's chest had been empaled by ice, and blood was dripping and staining the beaks scarlet.

She was paralyzed with fear at her own powers, her whole body trembled, and she could not control her mind to stop the thickening of the ice sheets around her; but what affected her the most was seeing Cassandra gaping a few feet away from her.

Chapter Text

Cassandra couldn't believe what she had just seen, whatever it was there was magic involved. She ran to Elsa, who looked like she was on the verge of a panic attack. She didn't know if the princess was aware of that ability or if she had it under control, even so, she knelt next to her and wrapped her in a protective embrace.

She didn't know if physical contact was allowed, but it felt right. Cass hid Elsa's face in her chest as the criminal's life slowly faded into convulsions, trying to breathe, a look of suffering on his face.

Elsa didn't look much better, her impeccable uniform was stained with large stains of other people's blood, her face was splattered with dirt, her hair was tangled with leaves and branches. She noticed a wound on her left arm that had just stopped bleeding, it didn't look fatal.

"Calm down, calm down Elsa," Cassandra asks softly, patting her back gently. “You did what protocol required, don't worry. Are you ok?”

Still overwhelmed by the event, Elsa shook her head without shedding a single tear, she was clear that she did the right thing, but it was hard for her to assimilate it. The ice began to melt because of the sun, leaving no evidence that it was ever there except for random little dewdrops.

"You must have a lot of questions," Elsa murmurs, her voice muffled.

"It's not wise to do them right now," Cassandra replies understandingly.

That girl was a box of surprises and didn't seem to enjoy it. On the cloth that Elsa's fingers touched, she felt a thin layer of frost spreading, and all she could do was try to stay still. Although Cass was scared, at that moment the one who was most afraid was Elsa.

She somewhat resembled her during her period as moonstone owner. She vaguely remembered what it was like to possess such destructive power: pain, constant intrusive thoughts, and getting lost in them. Magic was an ability that many feared, and Cassandra wasn't willing to turn her back on it like they did on her. If anyone could understand Elsa, it was her.

"I promised you that everything that's a secret will stay that way," she whispers to her. “Don't worry about it.”

The rest of the soldiers approached the scene, alerted by the scandal, seeing only the body on the grass, Elsa's bloodied sword a short distance away, and the girls still together. Lieutenant Westen gave him a worried look, to which Cass responded with a gesture, implying that it was not appropriate to talk about it.

They were silent as they loaded the criminals into the cart that would take them to the castle and wrapped the corpse in a blanket, before placing it on the back of the arrested horse who was under the control of two soldiers.

Elsa appeared to regain her composure during this period. She sat up, keeping one of Cassandra's arms around her shoulders. They did not separate until they mounted their horses and remained again in the rear on their way to the city.

The day had been laughter and fun for Princess Anna, until that moment. People in the lingonberry field began to murmur nervously, watching a group of soldiers on horseback escorting a wagon that imprisoned several people Anna had never seen. She stopped her activities, tossing the basket with the berries to the ground, elbowing her way through the crowd.    

The soldiers advanced with an imperturbable countenance, ignoring their bandaged wounds or dirty uniforms, in the direction of the city. At the end of the formation, although she couldn't see their faces, there were two hooded figures mounted on top of Havski and Fjøra. Those were to be Elsa and Eldora's guard.

"All right, Anna?" Princess Rapunzel asks, arriving next to her, maintaining a warm smile.

Anna nodded in bewilderment; what kind of crazy plans did her sister have for that day? They seemed to have enjoyed them more than she did, befriending the Corona heirs. At least, that's what she thought until she noticed the lump on one of the horses that was probably a corpse.

"Honey, I think you need to see that," Rapunzel's husband, Eugene, asks, pointing at the detainees.

"How did they get here?" She questions indignantly, not believing what she saw.

The Princess of Arendelle took a second glance at the people in the wagon. She didn't consider herself prejudiced, yet she couldn't help but be uncomfortable with them: they were dirty, wounded, and ragged, but from her perspective they were still very dangerous. Anna narrowed her eyes, seeing that some of her soldiers were holding up some wobbly battered foreign guards.

"Your Highness, we must go back to the castle," Eugene urges him. “We need to talk to King Agnarr.”

"Don't worry, I'm going too," Anna agrees, running to the place where her horses were waiting for them.

The rest of the people participating in the event turned to her, making comments she couldn't hear. Her mind was focused on meeting her sister and checking on her well-being.

She mounted Kjekk immediately, waited for her friends to get on the beautiful white steed they brought with them. They galloped down a shortcut she had discovered to evade her etiquette classes and save them valuable time. They would reach the city before the soldiers; she would have time to intercept Elsa.

"Cassandra, thank you," Elsa says, once they walk through the castle gates.

"You don't have to say it," Cassandra whispers kindly. “You did what a prudent leader would do. I can't reproach you for that, Captain Árnadalr.”

The royal guards had been notified in advance, handcuffed the criminals, and led them to the dungeons. They silently thanked the guests for being outside, it was a discreet way to maintain order.

They all dismounted, immediately receiving food and water. A group of medics came to tend to the soldiers' wounds in the central courtyard. When the employees saw Elsa, ran to call the royal doctor, and tried to convince her to go to her bedroom to rest.

Elsa didn't want to leave the troop, though she knew she wouldn't be allowed to stay either. She clung to Cassandra's arm, agreeing to be cared for in exchange for her accompanying her. Gerda escorted them to the princess's room, told them that Olina would be arriving soon with refreshments.

Everything around her felt unreal, the images were blurry, and her footsteps seemed not to touch the ground. The only consistent thing was the person next to her. She entered the bedroom, listening to her heartbeat in her ears as she tried to keep her appearance straight, when looked in the mirror she knew that few people would notice the chaos in her head.

"I guess no one else knows," Cassandra says after closing the door, snapping her out of her thoughts.

She pulled a chair closer to her without her asking to which Elsa thanked with a smile. She helped her remove her cloak and coat, taking care not to touch her injured arm. Cassandra seemed to have experience in situations like that, she picked up a bowl of water from a dresser and began to remove the dried blood from the wound with a clean cloth.

She was taking Elsa’s peculiar talent better than expected.

"My parents, my sister... and now you," Elsa replies, shuddering at the burning. “I know you're no obligated to keep my secret safe, but I beg you, don't divulge it.”

"Don't worry, I'm not that kind of person," She smiles reassuringly, examining the depth and stroke of the cut. “You'll need stitches. It will heal in a few weeks, although I'm afraid there will be a scar. So, do your powers come from birth or did you get them?”

"They've always been with me.”

Cassandra nodded, satisfied with her work, and looked away when she realized that Elsa had been watching her for a long time. She played with her hands, not knowing what else to add to the conversation. That was not the normal way to become close to someone.

"Have you seen anything like this?" Elsa ventures, trying not to overwhelm her.

"Ice magic? Never," Cass replies quietly. “Sundrops, moonstones, vengeful demons, and indestructible black rocks are more my field of expertise.”

Elsa couldn't help but laugh at how crazy it sounded, it was so crazy that it couldn't be a lie. She held Cassandra's gloved hand, glad to see her intertwine her fingers. Even with the dirt on her face from combat and disheveled hair, was the most beautiful woman she had ever seen.

Reality seemed to assemble around her, like brushstrokes on a canvas that were gradually taking shape. Elsa had no words to thank her for the help that girl may have given her unwittingly.

"I deserve to hear those stories someday, Cassandra," she asks, embarrassed by how fast her heart was beating.

"You can call me Cass," She demands, giving her a light squeeze. “Thank you for believing in me, Elsa. You have no idea how hard it is to make yourself heard as a foreign woman, especially when have nothing but your word.”

"It would be inappropriate for me to tell you that I understand," Elsa sighs, looking into her eyes, which at that moment appeared to be green.

"As a woman in the military, you have to work twice as hard as a man to earn not only the recognition of your colleagues, but their respect," Cass continues, ruefully. “I wanted to be captain, that was always my most ambitious dream. I'll admit that I'm jealous that you can have that rank.”

Being with her was so comforting, she could almost forget the battle, the corpse, and her secret revealed. If Elsa could simplify in one word what that little moment meant, she would say security. She felt terrible because did not feel sorry for the death she caused, but for the danger of exposing her magic. At that moment, Cassandra was an important support to not give in to madness, nor to consider herself a monster.

"If you're interested in the position when I'm queen, I'd have no problem giving it to you," Elsa offers. “Nor would your nationality make a difference, really the people are just beginning to put down roots, no one is entirely Arendellian.”

"And will you remember me when that happens?" Cass questions incredulously.

"It's impossible to forget one of the four people who—"

The door screeched open, letting in a gray-haired man next to Gerda and Olina, who was holding a tray of sprinkled cookies. They blushed to be discovered in such a compromising situation, one more second and they too would be aware.

"Your Highness," interrupts the doctor, approaching with his briefcase. “May I review your injuries?”

"Of course, Doctor," Elsa says, pushing her hand away from Cassandra’s.

"I'll wait out here," Cass hesitates, heading down the hall.

Cass walked out quickly; her eyes fixed on the ground. She didn't seem willing to leave her alone at a bad time, but it was better to give her privacy. Before the door to the bedroom closed, Elsa beckoned to Olina.

"Could you give all the dessert recipes to Lieutenant Krone?" She asked.

After interrogating all the soldiers in the central courtyard, without receiving any accurate information about her sister's whereabouts, Anna toured the castle with Rapunzel and Eugene hot on her heels. They demanded an audience with King Agnarr or Queen Iduna, which Kai refused saying they could not attend to them, but they could speak to Princess Elsa.

Anna’s estimates of time and distance had been correct, they arrived before the contingent, though in the time they brought the horses to the stable, her sister disappeared.

There were only two ways for an army officer and royal to fade away after an operation: ordered everyone's silence or skipped protocol. Knowing how much of a perfectionist Elsa could be, she opted for the first option.

She didn't understand what was going on, and the heirs of Corona didn't seem willing to reveal anything to her either, so she visited all the common areas. They had a little better luck with the servants, they mentioned that they saw Elsa go up to her chambers, accompanied. The trio rushed to the princess's room, where Gerda was carrying a blood-stained Arendellian military uniform.

"Your Highness," she greets with a bow. “Need anything?”

"Where's my sister, Gerda?" Anna asks, upset, imagining the worst-case scenarios.

"Captain Árnadalr is in a meeting with Lieutenant Krone, Lord Peterssen, and General Solberg," the clerk replies in an affable tone. “It wouldn't bother them, it sounded important. She didn't even accept the rest recommended by the Doctor.”

Gerda walked away to fulfill her duties, allowing relief to settle in Anna's chest. If her stubborn elder sister continued to work, then it wasn't that serious, or maybe she didn't get hurt. Elsa could ignore illnesses, but never doctor's orders.

"Princess Anna, please," Rapunzel asks, taking her hand. “We need to talk to the person in charge of Arendelle if none of the monarchs, or the heiress, are available.”

She was almost certain that the person who followed Elsa in the hierarchy was perhaps Lord Peterssen before her, who was also busy. By now it was possible that even Kai had more authority over Arendelle than Anna herself.

"I'm sorry to inform you that I have no say in this matter," she denies, confused by so much interest. “It is true that I could speed up the process, but I will not help you if I do not know why.”

Eugene and Rapunzel exchanged worried glances, the princess nodded to her husband, who cleared his throat before declaring with great regret:

"The detainees are prisoners of Corona. I don’t doubt the training of your soldiers, but whoever gave notice must be plotting against Arendelle.”

"And how do you know that?" Anna replies, frowning.

"Because that's how they got into my coronation party," Rapunzel says. “You must reinforce security in the dungeons, you cannot underestimate a Corona criminal.”

She pursed her lips, trying to think about what her parents would do in such a situation. Corona and Arendelle were not allies yet, however, somehow the friendship had to be initiated. Elsa was the expert in infrastructure, economics and trade, Anna was the expert in judging people.

Anna might never assume the throne, but she hoped her sister would take her opinion into account and work side by side for the future of their kingdom.

"Trusting in the goodwill for which Corona is known, I have decided to accede to your request," Anna declares, trying to imitate her sister's solemnity. “But I want to make it clear that I will not hesitate to protect Arendelle from betrayal. As soon as possible, I will seek an audience with King Agnarr, Queen Iduna, or Princess Elsa.”

"I appreciate your gesture," Rapunzel smiles. “And I promise you won't be disappointed.”

The discussion in the royal library had gradually become heated. Lord Peterssen, an older man who seemed on the verge of hysteria, held back his scolding of Elsa for the act he called «stupidly reckless». He insisted that protocol required any witness to the accident to report it to the Navy. The General merely gave them a stoic look.

"Captain, please," the man reproaches when he notices Cassandra. “Tell me, is it wise to listen to an Eldora guard insist on arresting suspected Coronan criminals in our territory? We don't know this woman's background at all.”

"I'll vouch for Lieutenant Krone," Elsa says, in a warning tone.

"How can she be informed of secret maritime prisons without being a possible fugitive?" Peterssen argues.

Cass had to give him credit for his reasoning. She would have come to a similar conclusion if were in his shoes.

Unable to find a less scandalous solution, she took from her pocket a ring with the crest of Corona, which validated her as a protected by the royal family of that kingdom. Smashed the piece hard against the table where they had gathered, which echoed throughout the room. That made the Lord's mouth shut. A crest was powerful, they wouldn't give that kind of honor to just anyone.

"I know you have no reason to trust me," Cassandra snorts, running a hand through her hair. “But I can guarantee you that I know what I'm doing. I know Corona’s laws better than anyone and I know they don't have a strong case to lash out at Arendelle if a declaration of war is what you're worried about.

"Well-informed enough to be a mere guard," Lord Peterssen hints suspiciously, giving the General a worried look, before turning back to the girls. “What do you intend to do? Looking for money? Did you get directions from anyone?”

"Absolutely nothing, you can keep the credit if you want, just don't mention me to the Corona authorities," she asks firmly.

Cassandra didn't feel like telling her sad and depressing story to Elsa in front of two strangers, but if she wanted to get away with it, she had to trust her; After all, Elsa accidentally revealed one of the world's most dangerous secrets. The princess didn't look like the kind of person who turned her back on a friend.

"I used to work for Princess Rapunzel of Corona, I don't want her to find out that I now serve Queen Marisol," Cass explains, shrugging. “She would force me to return immediately to her country.”

"Why are you wearing an Eldoran uniform in the first place?" The General asks. “They are not direct enemies, but they are countries that have competed in similar areas.”

"I decided to find my own way, I found an opportunity to be useful in Eldora. That's all you need to know," she replies aggressively.

Lord Peterssen had no intention of letting them go unpunished, Cassandra deduced it through his frown and authoritarian tone. They questioned their competence by acting on their own and quietly neutralizing a potential tragedy. They attacked not only the hierarchy, but also his suitability in office.

"Well, well, that's enough," Elsa interjects, rising abruptly. “It was my decision to trust Lieutenant Krone, I gave the order to Lieutenant Westen to mobilize his soldiers, led the ambush, and brought the detainees to the castle. If there are going to be retaliations, I deserve to receive them.”

"Do you trust her, Captain Árnadalr?" The General asks, with no ill intentions.

A prolonged silence set in. Cassandra saw kindness in the superior's eyes, like her father's loving harshness. The General would not lash out at Elsa, he was proud of her and could confront the Lord to defend her.

"I do," Elsa confirms, nodding. “And if you will allow me, Lord Peterssen, I believe that the troops who took part in the operation, as well as Lieutenant Krone, deserve a medal.”

"Which one do you think is appropriate, Captain?" The General supports.

"The Order of Aren," Elsa replies, without stumbling.

"That can only be provided for protective services to Arendelle or a member of the royal family," Lord Peterssen points out almost cruelly.

He made it clear with his tone that if Elsa admitted that it was in the role of a princess, she would lose the possibility of getting a priceless decoration. Demonstrating a heroic gesture of defense of the kingdom to the Council was far more difficult, even Cassandra knew that.

"I'll be a witness in court, if necessary," Elsa says, watching Cassandra. “They saved Her Royal Highness's life.”

"Captain Árnadalr," the General insists. “Do you have any idea how much weight your words have for your own career? They may agree to give them another merit more easily.”

"I know," Elsa replies, she didn't want her soldiers to receive less than she thought they really deserved. “And I hope that the resolution will be favorable to the request I have made. We must go.”

She took Cassandra's wrist, leaving the library. Cass knew perfectly well that she was not in the mood to confront multitudes, nobles, or subjects; So, she impulsively dragged her to the royal gardens. Elsa Árnadalr had become the first person she wanted to protect, after many years.

"It's quite late, we should go back to the castle," Elsa says, turning to the small clock in the village library.

On the first floor, old Mrs. Reedy was tapping her cane with some impatience, perhaps imagining that she could close early with half the people enjoying the festival and the other half selling something there.

"I thought you'd never ask," Cassandra sighs, pulling down a novel she'd been pretending to read for hours.

Elsa had to suppress a laugh at her exaggerated relief. It was comforting to have her around.

The afternoon passed like a blink of an eye: they had sneaked out of the castle (it felt almost a habit at this point) and dined incognito in a small place on the edge of the city. Finally, they decided to hide in the public library, annoying Mrs. Reedy who was inventorying books.

During that time, Elsa had heard a few stories of Cass's journey after leaving Corona, to evade that afternoon's magical incident. Some of them she found funny, others troubling, but all were honest. They allowed her to perceive that they established a closer and deeper bond.

They walked down the narrow stairs hand in hand. Elsa wasn't used to having so much contact with anyone other than Anna but doing it with Cassandra didn't bother her. They said goodbye to the librarian, who subtly hurried them away to close behind them.

They strolled through the empty streets without letting go, enjoying the soft sea wind blowing and the delicate illumination of the streetlamps. It was so perfect that she wanted to freeze that moment.

"Thank you for this... for everything," Elsa says almost without thinking.

"It's what friends do.”

Friends... That sounded appropriate.

"But what happened today isn't the kind of thing you get them into," she says ruefully. “You were at risk of dying.”

"Princess, you were the one who got hurt," Cass replies, stopping. “Plus, no matter the danger, I can manage pretty well on my own.”

"I liked you better when you spoke without formality, Cassandra," Elsa reproaches, almost like a tantrum. “It's a scratch, not an amputation. And be that as it may, it doesn't compare to what you've done for my people.”

She could see the blush that spread across Cass's cheeks at the flattery as looked away. Elsa found it extremely charming.

They walked on in silence, until they reached the main stairs of the castle. It was time to say goodbye and she was reluctant to do so.

"The Doctor ordered you to rest, so don't try too hard," Cassandra asks. “First thing tomorrow I must return to my assignment with Queen Marisol, I will be calmer knowing that you will not be in danger, even if we do not meet.”

"Be sure there will be half a dozen people making sure to keep me safe," she promises. “I'll try to find an opportunity to talk to you, even if it's just for a few minutes.”

Stripped of the responsibilities of her job, Cassandra seemed like an ordinary girl, not a lethal soldier. Elsa was beginning to wonder what she would do once Cass returned to Eldora, after recent events her life would never be the same.

"Good night, Elsa," Cassandra says quietly.

"Good night, Cass," she replies.

Hearing that nickname immediately made Cassandra crack a wide smile. Elsa reciprocated the gesture, blushing, feeling the adrenaline rush through her body, causing her heart to beat harder.

After meeting her, Elsa considered herself a different person.

Chapter Text

When she got up, Cassandra put on her uniform, which bore no sign of having participated in an armed conflict, made her bed, and checked that her looked decent. She took some cookies that Olina had given her the night before as a thanks for taking care of the princess. She couldn't compare them to anything Cass used to consume in Corona, the Arendellian pastries were just perfect.

There were too many things she liked about Arendelle.

She was embarrassed to admit it, but it took her a long time to fall asleep the night before, her thoughts saturated with Elsa. They went through an emotional storm; she was able to see her at her most vulnerable and allowed Cass to take care of her. She longed to feel that closeness again.

All that time in the library, walking through small empty streets, away from other people, admiring her platinum hair shining in the sunlight and her lovely blue eyes... Cass was envious of the person who in the future would have the privilege of seeing those images every day.

She shook those ideas off; it wasn't appropriate to think that way.

Carefully left her assigned room, going up to the floor where Omar guarded Queen Marisol's door. Her colleague smiled in appreciation, holding back a yawn.

"A busy day yesterday?" Omar asked amicably.

"Don't even say it," he replies with a nod, adopting his position.

"I hope it's better today.”

She saw her companion go to rest, completely exhausted. Omar was a good guy, he deserved to take a vacation when came home, to give back the time away to his family. That line of thinking made her immediately realize reality.

Remembering Eldora made her hopelessly nostalgic, she felt that centuries had passed since they had left the harbor for the pathetic birthday party of some ordinary princess. She wasn't entirely sure if wanted to go back, Arendelle felt like the right place. The place where she could find what she'd been looking for years.

She also didn't want to get her hopes up about Elsa's offer, though her treacherous heart compelled her to believe it. Cassandra had promised herself that would never again swear blind allegiance to anyone, nor would fall in love again with a crown princess totally out of her reach. That pattern that almost doomed her, threatened to repeat itself.

Still, she didn't feel silly about it. After all, who couldn't have a crush on the princess of Arendelle? She was a beautiful, cultured, and powerful woman.

At first, she thought only that she was a mere pretty noblewoman, then a nice girl, and now it was impossible to deny that she was beginning to seem endearing to her.

Perhaps Elsa would forget her over the years, but Cassandra was beginning to believe that she would never be able to erase the trace of her existence.

Queen Marisol's door slowly opened, revealing her wearing her best dress. Cass had almost forgotten that this was the day of her audience with King Agnarr of Arendelle to take for granted the finishing touches of their mutual agreement.

"Your Majesty," she greets with a bow.

"Lieutenant Krone," Queen’s Marisol replies, patting her on the shoulder. "Today we have a full agenda, I hope you had the opportunity to have breakfast."

Elsa considered herself a light sleeper, but on this morning not even the light that came through her bedroom window could wake her during the early hours of dawn. Still, her internal clock saved her from having an unforgivable delay.

As she tried to sit up, a wave of pain shot through her body. She assumed it was a result of the fight and the injury to her forearm. Elsa grimaced as she stood up, hoping she didn't look worn-down.

To her surprise, her dreams were not plagued by nightmares repeating the incident, in fact, memories of the battle were unclear. All she had thought about was that Cassandra had discovered her secret.

"Your Highness, are you awake?" Kai asks from behind the closed door.

"I am," Elsa confirms, as she cleaned the wound and changed the bandage.

"King Agnarr has asked for your presence for the morning meetings," he reminds her, somewhat worriedly. "There aren't many, but you'll need to hurry if you want to attend before the first one ends."

Elsa thanked him for the warning, running her hands over her face, worried that she had forgotten the pending items on her agenda. It was customary for her father to ask her to accompany him on diplomatic meetings with foreign dignitaries. She didn't participate much in them, however, it was part of her training as a future queen.

She dressed in one of her pre-prepared outfits, noticing how much the edges of her wound bandage were out of place in her formal clothes. It was possible that her parents would be notified of the ambush and the state of her health, although for the sake of appearances it would be preferable to keep the guests from knowing.

To hide it, she put on white gloves that she wore as a teenager as a measure that helped maintain control of her powers. She didn't know if they really worked, but they gave her comfort and confidence. Two things she needed that day to solve her pending issues.

Stepping out into the hall, she met Lieutenant Syversen who silently escorted her to the king's office. The meeting seemed to be about to start, and she was surprised to notice the attendees.

Queen Marisol was sitting on one of the couches, drinking tea next to Queen Iduna. In front of them, King Agnarr was taking a cookie from the bowl on the central table, next to it was an empty space intended for Elsa.

"Princess Elsa, it's a pleasure to have you with us," Queen Marisol greets.

"The pleasure is all mine, Your Majesties," Elsa replies, bowing.

Syversen stood by the door, next to Cassandra. Elsa had completely forgotten about that encounter. Any kind of progress she had made in making Cass see her as a normal person had just been thrown away.

She sat down next to her father, biting the inside of her cheek. Talking about money and diplomacy would only reveal what she really was deep down: another royal interested in protecting her comforts.

"Queen Marisol told us about the informative private tour you gave her of the castle gardens," her father says, trying to integrate her into the conversation. "We also reviewed the draft export agreement you made and made a few modifications."

"The results have been satisfactory for both parties," adds Queen Marisol with a grateful smile. "In fact, I've never had such a quick negotiation."

She frowned in confusion, analyzing the words of the monarchs. If the conversations were over, why did they require her presence?

The treaty was drafted with the availability of resources in mind and Eldora's strong demand for them. If it were analyzed by a critical eye, they would even consider it exaggeratedly convenient for Arendelle, barely within the bounds of what was just. In Elsa’s defense, she had a realm to prioritize and that was her own.

"You did an excellent job, my dear," her mother congratulates, implying that they just wanted to notify her of the event. "That's why your father and I have decided to assign you to be responsible for any future deals, commercial or political, with Eldora."

"Thanks for your confidence, Your Majesties," she says, bewildered.

She didn't have to overthink to conclude that the appointment implied making an appearance as a representative of the kingdom at every event on Eldoran soil to which Arendelle was invited.

"We also heard about the unfortunate event you were involved in yesterday, Elsa," her father says, barely concealing any semblance of pride in his voice. "I spoke with General Solberg about the medal ceremony tonight in the central courtyard. He said it was difficult to convince the Council, but they agreed."

"Your Majesty?" Elsa asks, confused.

Instinctively brought her hand to her left forearm, in a mischievous attempt to hide the wound under the sleeves of her outfit. Queen Marisol nodded as if she knew everything, gave Cassandra a quick glance, revealing to Elsa that she was aware of her involvement.

"For your services of altruism, protection of the sovereignty and security of Arendelle," declares the king with a look of affection. "We have determined that the Order of Aren should be awarded to Captain Árnadalr, Lieutenant Westen, the seventeen soldiers who made up the squadron, and Lieutenant Krone of Eldora."

She turned to Cass, worried about whatever she had said to her boss, but she didn't react at all. From the way they handled the matter, it was possible that they were talking only about the deployment, omitting the incident. She returned her attention to the meeting, embarrassed.

"I received the full report from the King and Queen and I'm glad Lieutenant Krone has been of help in a kingdom that is so hospitable to us," Queen Marisol says, placing one of her hands on Elsa's. "I hope this is the beginning of a long friendship between Arendelle and Eldora."

"It definitely is," Queen Iduna agrees, kindly.

They continued to talk about superficial matters for a while longer, setting dates for the transfer of the first batches of goods. As mealtime approached, the guest took her leave, taking her guard with her.

Once alone, the King and Queen of Arendelle embraced Elsa, worried about what she had to face on her own and spoke briefly about it. Having the unconditional support of her family was valuable to her. She couldn't wait to tell Anna the good news.

Anna was not happy to be excluded from the royal family’s important meetings. She understood that these were matters destined to be resolved by the current monarchs and the successor. She knew that since she had less chance of acceding to the throne than her sister, she would be discarded, she would be treated as a spare. Even though Anna was aware of that, it still hurting.

She swallowed her sorrows, reluctantly taking her lunch, accompanied by Eugene and Rapunzel who had chosen to confess everything to her when they realized that, if they wished to negotiate Arendelle's discretion, they would have to wait for their scheduled audience with Princess Elsa that very afternoon.

She did what she thought was prudent to prevent a possible second attack by the alleged fugitives from Corona, despite considering it somewhat paranoid. The dungeon had guards on constant patrol, the prisoner cells had only a small window into the fjord, the doors were too heavy and almost impenetrable, the whole castle stood on an island.

Adding to that the fact that half of the criminals had received serious injuries that limited their mobility, she was confident that their deportation to Corona would be simple.

"Elsa!" Anna exclaimed as she saw her sister enter the dining room. "Where have you been? Yesterday I didn't see you at all."

Actually, no one in the castle saw her sister after the doctor's visit. She spent hours waiting for her in the places Elsa frequented or suspected she might be, but Anna didn't get even a bit of information.

"Work stuff," Elsa says, in a serious tone as she notices the guests. "Nice to meet you, Your Highnesses."

"The pleasure is ours, Princess Elsa," replies Corona's heiress. "Since it was within our schedules to meet in a couple of hours, is it possible that we can have that conversation right now?"

Elsa frowned, as she usually did whenever someone asked her to alter her schedule, however (and to Anna's surprise), she agreed to the request with a slight nod and indicating to the foreigners that they could follow her to a more private place.

"Excuse me, Your Highness," Eugene interjects, clearing his throat. "Can Princess Anna join us?"

"Do you want to come with us, Anna?" Elsa asked matter-of-factly, though her eyebrows betrayed confusion.

That was new. The protocol was that her sister should decline the offer without even considering it. She was thankful deep down that Elsa decided to adjust the rules a bit to give her the opportunity to be present. It almost made her forget her morning anger with the monarchy.

"Of course," Anna smiled, standing beside her.

They walked together in silence to the royal library, the place where Elsa used to hold the official meetings over which she presided. Inside the castle, it was Anna's favorite room. She loved to read in her spare time while accompanying her older sister in her study sessions to present solutions to Arendelle's problems.

Once the doors closed behind her and they took a seat in the reading room, she watched as Elsa patiently waited for any of the guests to start the conversation. Anna was proud of her, she acted like a queen.

"We came to Arendelle as a goodwill gesture from Corona and the Alliance of the Seven Kingdoms," Princess Rapunzel begins. "We sincerely hope that they will accept our friendship and our countries will benefit each other."

Diplomacy, Anna hated. Was it necessary to string together so many bombastic words to make the other understand that they did not want any gesture of hostility? It was those moments that made her grateful that she wasn't next in the line of succession.

Unlike her, Elsa analyzed Eugene and Rapunzel; Her blue eyes remained apathetic towards them. Whatever her governess taught her, it wasn't to appear kind.

"My name is Eugene Fitzherbert, and I'm not only the princess's consort, but I’m also the captain of Corona’s Royal Guard," Eugene explains, completely charming, trying to win Elsa’s sympathy. "We are aware of the arrest of a group of individuals who are prisoners of our kingdom."

"We haven't made anything about it public," Elsa says coldly. "At this moment I cannot affirm or deny it, except for the fact that we found a shipwreck in the Arenfjord, which coincides with the characteristics of a prison ship, presumably from Corona."

Just as Rapunzel and Eugene told her the day before, Elsa verified the story with evasive phrases. Her face didn't make any gestures, that was revealing to Anna: she hid a lot of things about the arrest.

"I didn't mention a prison ship, Your Highness. That's information reserved for Royal Guard of Corona and those close to King Frederick," Captain Fitzherbert says, quietly. "Whoever gave it to you is, at best, a fugitive."

"I have complete confidence in my informant," Elsa replies, maintaining her composure. Still, the temperature in the library was gradually dropping. "We corrected the work that you didn't know how to do. You should thank us."

An overwhelming silence settled in the room; they could have heard even a pin fall on the floor. She hadn't seen her sister perform in negotiations; it was a little intimidating.

"With all due respect, Princess Elsa," Princess Rapunzel interjects, visibly overwhelmed. "We want to meet that person."

At that moment, Elsa's expression changed radically, for an instant she closed her eyes and tensed her jaw, acting for the first time as a human being in front of a pair of strangers, not as the regal and unflappable heiress.

"And you will," Elsa replies sharply, returning to her usual countenance. "They will be presented with a distinction for services rendered to Arendelle. Listen, we do not seek to antagonize your kingdom. You will receive our silence in exchange for taking with you anyone you have registered as your criminal."

"We appreciate your cooperation, Your Highness," Rapunzel says, giving Anna a worried look.

"However," Elsa interrupts, observing the complicity between them. "We will keep in our custody and be judged with our laws, the one who warned us of the threat, should they prove to be a fugitive from Corona."

Granted, at that moment Anna would choose to return to grueling diplomacy. That arrest meant stepping on important feet who would not be happy to receive the news. Whoever Elsa's informant was, they were a valuable figure who apparently now had the full backing of the kingdom.

"I can accept that," Rapunzel decides.

"Honey, we don't know," Eugene protests.

"It's a choice I must make," the princess denies, holding out a hand to Elsa, who shook it. "Do we have a deal?"

"We have a deal," Elsa confirms.

Once Corona's representatives left the library, Elsa was determined to go find Cassandra to notify of her former employer's possible moves. However, Anna thwarted her plans by grabbing her wrist tightly, preventing her from escaping.

"You know, I'm no one to tell you how to do your job," her little sister says, lifting her left sleeve. "But, if you're going to prepare a declaration of war, I need to be aware and not think that the opposing side is nice. Since when you planned to apprehend the fugitives from Corona?"

"We didn't do it in advance," she replies, covering her forearm. "Halfway through a tour of the outskirts of the city we stumbled upon the wreckage of the ship."

"We...?" Anna asks. "Are you talking about Lieutenant Krone? Is she your informant? Would you rather start a war with Corona just to protect your friend?"

Her temper, usually calm to keep her powers in check, was beginning to crack. Never had Anna questioned her good judgment and felt it was wrong to reveal Cassandra's information to her, even though she didn't ask Elsa to keep it secret.

No matter why Cass decided to leave Corona, and regardless of whether she was a fugitive in those lands, she wouldn't turn her back on it.

"Do you choose to side with them just because picked lingonberries together?" Elsa retorts, freeing herself from her grip. "Lieutenant Krone knows, she knows about it."

Anna was perplexed, her mouth half open. Leaving Elsa’s powers exposed was dangerous. It wouldn't just surprise whoever discovered it or cause small incidents; They could accuse their sister of heresy or begin to question her right to the throne. If Elsa exposed it accidentally or voluntarily, it put her in a vulnerable position and empowered the Lieutenant. If it occurred to Krone to ask for the entire contents of the royal coffers, Anna was sure that her parents would give it up without hesitation.

She felt ashamed of her actions, understanding the matter almost completely. Her sister was at the mercy of whatever that soldier decided to tell.

Noticing her expression, Elsa hugged her sister, reassuring her. She knew that Anna was sensitive, if she didn't make it clear that the anger wasn't directed at her, it would end up affecting her.

"Cassandra isn't blackmailing me, Anna," she whispers, still letting go. "The terms of their protection imply a separate treatment which we arrived at in the presence of Lord Peterssen and General Solberg. She witnessed it by chance and helped me not to panic."

"I should have gone with you, Elsa. Your life was at risk, and I was harvesting lingonberries alongside... the probable perpetrators" Anna muses, her voice breaking, letting her imagination wander through multiple assumptions. "Is it possible that this is a ruse to destabilize us? What if they hunt down Lieutenant Krone because she poses a threat to their plans?"

Elsa patted her on the shoulder as a gesture of comfort. She had dismissed those theories the night before. Perhaps Cass didn't mention exactly what her work at Corona entailed or the reason for her departure, but she didn't seem to hold a grudge against Princess Rapunzel or the kingdom either; After all, she had a royal crest on her side.

"It's not that," Elsa denies, wiping away the tears that streamed down Anna’s cheek. "They were holding three guards from Corona hostage; we corroborate their testimonies. They claimed not to know where they were or how they got there. Even Sorenson came with his lie detector at Lord Peterssen's request."

"You really think about everything, Captain Árnadalr," Anna laughs, smiling forcedly. "You and all those soldiers deserve a medal."

"We'll get it," she confesses, blushing a little. "I was going to look for Cassandra for that. Royal seamstresses are making last-minute costumes for today's event. It's the best way to close my military career."

Uttering those words was painful, it made closer and more inescapable. Time was running out, once she was discharged, she might never touch a sword again. She would be confined to a desk. The last shred of freedom she possessed would be taken away from her.

At that point, Elsa decided that she would not allow the same thing to be done to Anna. She was happier performing her assignments in the military than talking to dignitaries, abandoning it for nothing would tear her apart.

She would protect her sister's dream, no matter how complicated it was or the price to pay.

Despite her refusal, Queen Marisol decided to accompany Cassandra to the sewing salon, where a tailor took all the lieutenant's measurements to make her a dress uniform at the request of the monarchs of Arendelle.

As if she were a child amazed by the work of the seamstresses, the queen asked them questions about fabrics, stitches, and designs; advising them which textures and tones most closely resembled those used by Eldora's Royal Guard.

Cass hated being there, because it reminded her of when she was on the other side: making extravagant clothes, mending small tears that were inadmissible to the nobles, or cleaning stains of unknown origin.

Fortunately, the princesses of Arendelle had arrived at the same place. Anna entertained Queen Marisol for a while with recommendations on the best chocolate shops in the kingdom, suggesting to her should integrate that product into the list of exports in future trade agreements and taking her to the city to taste them. In that way, allowed the employees to continue their work.

Elsa, on the other hand, was standing next to her trying on the clothes, calm, surely accustomed to doing that process every change of season. The princess's uniform was almost finished, another tailor pinning the finishing touches, nodding in satisfaction at his work of art.

"She wants to see you," Elsa says quietly.

Cass knew immediately who it was. She pursed her lips as she thought about how Raps found out the detainees were from Corona. She thought that Rapunzel might be hanging around all the bakeries and art stalls in the market, instead of taking an interest in other people's talk. If she had found out, there was no way to avoid confronting her.

"Don't worry, she still doesn't know who you are. I arranged an exchange to avoid them forcing you to return to Corona," the princess adds, raising her chin as the tailor requested. "We'll discreetly deport everyone if they'll leave you alone."

"Why are you doing this?" Cass asks more sharply than she intended.

"From now on, I'll watch your back," Elsa explains, removing her jacket at the end of the process. "You know my secret and saved my kingdom. I decided to trust you."

Her blue eyes, so serene and sincere, touched Cassandra. Trust was a bittersweet word for her, after everything that had happened it was difficult to do it again, to the point of being painful. With Elsa, she was willing to take the risk.

"Then I choose to trust you, too," Cassandra replies, freeing herself from a burden she didn't know she was carrying. "My father was a captain in the Corona Guard. I was never allowed to formally join, instead I was assigned to the princess."

"That makes sense," Elsa murmurs, not sounding condescending. "I understand your reluctance to go back, no matter how many good experiences have remained. No one deserves to live in the shadow of another."

Cass vaguely remembered promising Rapunzel to be more honest with her feelings before she left Corona.

She learned on her lonely journey that it was more gratifying to enjoy the small moments rather than defensively waiting for her mistakes to catch up with her. Cassandra chose to look for a new path, meet different people and finally, after two years, she believed had found the answer to her question.

Their destiny was not to provide security for a kingdom, nor to defend a flag; Nor does she avenge the opportunities that were taken away from her or run after her friends. She had prepared herself to be all of that and could do it well, yet her purpose went beyond seeking the approval of others.

She was called upon to demonstrate her talents, brandishing her sword not for a piece of land, but for herself and those she cared about. Cass would receive that medal with her head held high, proving with deeds that she could protect her loved ones beyond imposed orders.

She was more than an instrument to dispense justice.

"You should listen to yourself from time to time, Your Highness," Cassandra says, patting her on the shoulder. "You'll be a wonderful queen, I know. The day you stop hiding behind your parents, you'll have the whole world at your feet."

Unexpectedly, she received a hug from Elsa. Cass returned the gesture, not caring how fast her heart was beating.

In a short span of time, they went from being a couple of strangers to good friends. She would cling to that friendship because she couldn't offer her anything else, she wouldn't hurt herself imagining the impossible.

"I thought your sister would be a little more friendly," Rapunzel says, trying to sound polite. "No offense, but her behavior was something..."

"Passive-aggressive?" Eugene completes for her, sarcastically.

Anna scratched the back of her neck, looking for a way to justify Elsa.

Now that she knew both prospects, Anna thought it appropriate to resume the good relations between Arendelle and Corona, with a cup of tea in between. The Arendellians were relatively known for their insulting kindness, however, it seemed that the Coronans won that category.

"After she almost died in that attack, I would act like that too," Anna blurted out loudly, without thinking.

"Wait, was Princess Elsa present during the incident?" Eugene asks, holding back his astonishment. "Damn it! We must now issue a letter of apology for an attempt on the life of the heiress of Arendelle."

"This will definitely be a trip to remember... and so that they don't send us anywhere again as representatives," Rapunzel denies, hiding her face in her hands.

The hostess princess sought advice from the ancient paintings in the royal gallery, sighing wistfully. It was ironic that just a couple of days ago the three of them had teamed up in a craft contest and were now arguing about a possible military intervention.

"Don't worry, Elsa knows it was a coincidence, not on purpose. She'd be the same if they were Weselton criminals," Anna reassures them. "She's just looking for a way to keep Arendelle safe. If you got to know each other better, you would like her. I assure you."

"Let's hope so, for the sake of our kingdoms," Eugene adds.

But Rapunzel remained silent. She stared at Anna closely. The youngest princess of Arendelle didn't look anything like the heiress, Rapunzel didn't even think their personalities were compatible. Ironically, that brought back memories she thought she had outgrown, after a long time.

"Fraternal relationships are always complicated, don't you think?" Rapunzel smiles, playing with her fingers. "This reminds me a bit of someone who would definitely do the same as your sister."

The Coronan princess's eyes began to fill with tears, leaving Anna helpless who didn't know how to react. Whoever Rapunzel's someone was, it was a very recent and painful loss.

"Her best friend," Eugene says, wrapping his arms around his wife. "She has been missing for more than a year, we tried to locate her to attend the wedding, but we were unable to do so. It vanished completely."

"I'm so sorry," Anna whispered politely, shaking her hand slightly.

She did not share their sorrow, but it was right to offer a few words of comfort. Anna promised herself that, if relations between the two kingdoms did not become hostile, she would find an excuse to go to the Crown, just to make amends.

Chapter Text

If being a hero meant that kind of treatment, she was starting to like it.

When she looked in the mirror, she barely recognized herself. Her dark hair had been brushed and conditioned with a variety of floral-scented products, enhancing her image favorably.

The custom-made dress uniform may not have been an exact replica of the authentic one provided by Eldora's army, but it served the purpose perfectly and received the approval of Queen Marisol. She sheathed her gleaming sword, placing it at her waist.

Deep down, she felt a little bad about forcing her co-workers to work extra shifts, despite being notified that they would be compensated once they returned to the kingdom; so, she took the reward for the street challenge to give it to them as a token of gratitude, a gesture that Omar and Alvan accepted after much insistence.

That night was hers, the moment she'd waited for as long as she could remember.

The applause, recognition, respect, and honors she deserved would finally be bestowed upon them. She admired her reflection once more, taking pride in herself. The only thing that could make that moment better would be for her father to be able to witness it.

"I didn't think the day would come when I would be a companion to one of my employees," Queen Marisol, smiles heartily. "I hope this isn't uncomfortable for you, Cassandra."

"It's not, Your Majesty," Cass replies, looking away. "Actually, I'm sorry, I acted without your consent, it was reckless and... "

"Don't apologize," she asks gently. "What you do in your spare time is none of my business and I would gladly take the consequences for protecting such a valuable member of my staff. While I know that won't be necessary, you have the support of Princess Elsa."

Subconsciously, she lowered her head waiting for the scolding. Certain customs acquired throughout her experience serving the monarchy were still ingrained. Feeling the queen's slender hand on her shoulder, Cass forced herself to look at her.

"I want to be friends with Princess Elsa, it's pretty obvious. You, you became friends with Captain Árnadalr, you can't be judged for that," admits the young monarch, unashamedly. "There are bonds that are destined to be, others that are built gradually. You took the initiative to save an ally that I want to keep, so I'll notify General Talha of that. These are virtues that I look for in my captain of the guard."

The pieces fell into place little by little, her life began to regain order.

She offered one of her arms to Queen Marisol, who took it with pleasure. They left the guest room in the west wing of the castle, heading for the central courtyard. Just at the landing of the stairs leading to the Second Great Hall, they met the host princesses.

"Your Majesty," they both greet with polite bows. "Lieutenant Krone."

"Your Highnesses," Cass replies, following protocol, without letting go of the Queen.

"You don't have do it for me, I'm on duty," Elsa clarifies, pointing to her uniform. "I planned to meet the troops before the ceremony."

"Which reminds me," Princess Anna interjects, turning to Queen Marisol. "I promised Your Majesty to be part of the judging committee for the ice sculpture competition. Isn't that an inconvenience, Lieutenant Krone?"

"Not at all," Cassandra denies, allowing them both to leave.

It was mid-afternoon; According to the improvised schedule, after the awarding of the various competitions that took place in the castle, the soldiers would parade through the main streets of the city, to close with the reception of medals by the kings of Arendelle.

Cass heard rumors of a possible closed-door party but ruled it out because that event was supposed to take place in two days, when all the dignitaries said goodbye and returned to their lands.

"You look amazing," Cassandra flatters, not knowing a better way to start a conversation.

"Thanks, the same about you," Elsa says, slowly descending the steps.

Instead of going to the central courtyard they went to the kitchen where Olina, the employee who gave her a copy of the royal recipe book, greeted them.

They exited through the service gate, repeating the route they used to sneak away, although unlike that time, the route was full of people coming and going with stuffs.

"So... Lieutenant Krone," Elsa begins, giving her a small push with her shoulder that felt very forced. "Do you have plans for your immediate future job before three kingdoms vie to welcome you into their ranks?"

"I suppose Queen Marisol feels threatened about it," jokes to lighten the mood. "I think she just offered me a hypothetical promotion."

"Wow, I can't compete with that," Elsa sighs. "I'm glad for you, Cass."

"This wouldn't have been possible without your help."

Elsa stopped halfway, searching for the right words to reciprocate the compliment, and feeling her face blush. In a sudden burst of stupidity and bravery, Cassandra was tempted to caress her cheek. Barely the tips of her fingers could touch the soft skin of the princess when, at the edge of her field of vision, detected an object moving at high speed towards them.

She tugged at Elsa's arm, bringing her closer to her body to avoid being run over, facing each other for a few seconds. The other girl's gaze was clouded with confusion, before she turned her attention to the situation.

A few yards ahead, a reindeer-drawn wagon loaded with huge blocks of ice stopped.  A tall, blond, stocky young man came downstairs, angry, to make sure the merchandise was still complete.

"Be more careful, idiot" Cassandra exclaims, standing between him and Elsa.

"You are walking at wrong place; didn't you teach them to look both ways before they crossed?" The guy alleges, furious. "This area is very busy, you can't just... Wander around."

He suddenly stopped when he recognized the uniform worn by the Arendellian, taking a few steps back and raising his hands in surrender. Elsa shook off her clothes and recomposed her solemn bearing.

"I'm so sorry for the inconvenience," the boy apologizes urgently. "It was not my intention to hurt some army officers. I have to hand over my cargo, the sculpture competition is about to start and..."

"You can go. I hope this incident will not be repeated." Elsa says, urging him to continue his way with a wave of hands.

The young man nodded without question, getting into his wagon, ordering the reindeer to get away as quickly as possible. Contrary to what her tone might have suggested, Elsa didn't seem annoyed, but tired.

"Arguing with someone who won't be doing military service doesn't make sense," she sighed under her breath, perhaps unintentionally.

Cass gently touched her shoulder, trying to provide support.

"I'm sorry for what you've just witnessed," Elsa murmurs, disappointed in herself. "I'm sure you think I'm another uncompromising princess…"

"Actually, I had a doubt," Cassandra shrugs off, deflecting her sense of guilt. "How do you know he won't do military service?"

Seeing the relieved look on her friend's face indicated that she did the right thing. They kept walking toward the stables, this time trying to stay alert and avoid other distractions. A bit complicated, considering how much Cass rambled admiring the princess's perfect profile.

"Ice collectors are exempt from compliance," Elsa explains. "They spend long days in the mountains during the summer and it is a high-risk job, they are usually the sole breadwinner for their families. But the most important thing is that no sensible person wants to replace them in that job."

"From the moment you set foot in the port of Arendelle you realize that half of the locals are uptight traders," Cass says, clicking her tongue. "Still, don't they get paid for their years of service?"

"Yes, and it's pretty good. It's just a silly superstition among them that military service is cursed," confirms Elsa, who seemed to be looking for the right words to make it clear. "In recent years they have reported strange and inexplicable things when they return to their jobs after completing it. If you'll allow me to be honest, I don't think they insist on recruiting ads because it's hard to find those grumpy mountaineers without a pickaxe or axe."

The soldiers of the first group that actively participated in the ambush were already grouped, receiving instructions from Lieutenant Westen who greeted them very proudly, wearing a different uniform than Elsa. Apparently, there was a significant bias between the royal guard and the rest of the army.

"Captain Árnadalr, Lieutenant Krone, we were waiting for you," Westen says as he approaches them. "I think they're aware of the route. The horses are ready, I think it prudent to leave now, taking advantage of the fact that the citizens are busy with other matters."

They acceded to that request, riding Havski and Fjøra who had been prepared in advance. Lieutenant Westen was also on horseback, while the rest of the troop marched behind them.

Cassandra knew that it was about protocol and hierarchy, but she couldn't help but consider it unfair. She shook her head to clear her mind, it was not the time to question the military structure.

As a discreet signal, flags were unfurled on the watchtowers overlooking the Bridge of Arches. Lieutenant Westen put away spyglass and signaled to the band that it was time to begin.

The musicians began to sing a military march that caught the attention of passersby, merchants and visitors who had gathered shortly after hearing about the parade, to witness it. At a slow trot, the horses marched in synchronization through the cobbled streets in the direction of the castle.

Elsa watched proudly as the children asked their parents to carry them on their shoulders to get a better look at the heroes of Arendelle. No one really knew exactly what they had been saved from, but they assumed that if it merited a parade, then it must have been a major feat.

"Look, Mom, it's Princess Elsa!" A little girl exclaimed, in great astonishment.

The mother smiled before explaining to her daughter that in addition to being a princess, she had an assignment as a royal guard, to which the little girl replied with an enthusiastic "I want to be a soldier of Arendelle!"

Everyone applauded, rejoiced, boasted how fortunate they were to have an heir to the throne who showed sincere interest in protecting the kingdom.

As they drew nearer to the castle's massive gates, the expressions of the audience, made up mostly of foreign merchants, seemed shocked. Elsa couldn't blame them, after all, she was in a completely different role than usual. She knew that as soon as they returned to their lands, the rumors of the soldier princess would spread quickly.

Once they entered the central courtyard, they dismounted from their horses and saluted in military style to General Solberg, who was at the beginning of the stairs leading to the building. The officer motioned for them to turn the crowd around.

At that moment Elsa noticed that none of the guests of the royal family were in that place, surely there was a change of plans on the part of the Council, and they were relocated to the Throne Room. Their intentions to remind Elsa that they were still in control in certain areas were evident.

"People of Arendelle!" The General pronounces, in a solemn tone. "I present to you some of your most loyal sons and daughters, these twenty soldiers risked their lives and integrity to protect our ideals and tonight, they will be rewarded for their brave acts."

The applause and shouts almost deafened her, reverberating with energy that vibrated inside her, calming the nerves that tormented her before the tour. General Solberg ordered them to go to the castle. Reluctant, Elsa took the lead, appealing to her position, being followed by Lieutenant Westen, Cassandra, and the rest of the soldiers in descending order of rank.

Just as she suspected, the Throne Room was packed with foreign dignitaries, senior military commanders, and members of the Council. Some non-Arendellian women began to murmur indignantly at seeing her in an outfit considered inappropriate, however, that did not faze her. She would never be ashamed to wear her military uniform.

"Introducing the captain of the Royal Guard: Elsa Árnadalr," Kai announces, causing everyone present to turn to Elsa.

Elsa stepped forward with her head held high, the sheathed sword hanging at her side pounding against her leg with every step she took. Continued until she was in front of her family who did not hide how proud they were of her. She bowed, placed one knee on the ground, and brought her clenched right hand to the level of her heart, waiting for the others.

"Lieutenant Jorgen Westen, a member of Arendelle's army; and Lieutenant Cassandra Krone, a member of Eldora's royal guard," Kai resumes.

They both approached, repeating Elsa's actions. Westen was on her right, Cass on the left. Following them, Kai listed each soldier and their rank, allowing them to line up in a second row, behind the officers. In the end, he summoned General Solberg to take his place with the royal family.

"We have gathered today to thank these men and women who give the best of themselves to ensure our well-being," King Agnarr takes the floor, projecting his speech to reach every corner of the room. "Their acts of selfless bravery, protecting the people of Arendelle, have prevented not only the plundering of our lands, but also a possible external conflict."

She could feel her skull throbbing with every beat and an uncomfortable ringing in her ears. She closed her eyes tightly, trying not to fill her uniform with frost. Even positive emotions made it harder to control her powers, gloves were a comfort at the time.

"In the face of such a performance of duty and initiative, the Council of Arendelle, General Solberg, and myself, deem it appropriate to award you more than the Medal of Honor," continued the king, emphasizing the appropriate phrases. "We have decided to award them the title of Knights of the Order of Aren, there being no other higher merit in our territory."

In contrast to the raucous applause from outside, these were restrained and brief. They were immediately turned off to allow the ceremony to continue. The General gave the king an open box containing a silver rapier, with which he would make the appointments official.

"Captain Elsa Árnadalr, Princess of Arendelle," her father pronounces, tapping her on each shoulder with the tip of his weapon, in rhythm with her words. "Today I appoint you Protector of our dominions, Distinguished Daughter of our Kingdom, and Knight of the Order of Aren."

She straightened up at that moment, sheltering the emotion that threatened to creep into her face. Queen Iduna smiled contentedly; Anna subtly gave a thumbs up in approval.

Her sister hung a small bronze medal on her coat, while her mother hung around her neck a golden medallion containing the effigy of Aren, the mythical hero who carved the Arenfjord with a magic sword.

She turned to her companions just as her father was giving Cassandra the honorary status of an Arendellian citizen. She couldn't help but crack a smile when their eyes met. Elsa was so happy for her.

As she turned her gaze to the rest of the crowd, she noticed how happy Queen Marisol was in the front row, receiving congratulations from other dignitaries for having such a capable person in her army.

However, not everyone seemed to share the joy, a little further back, the heirs of Corona seemed dismayed without taking their attention off Cassandra who analyzed them with the same intensity.

After half an hour of bland words, acknowledgments and formal greetings, some castle employees entered with trays of glasses that they handed to the attendees for a toast, followed by a small reception. Some Arendellian nobles began to flirt with the soldiers. Before they knew it, the Throne Room had been transformed into a makeshift dance floor.

The crowd dispersed, causing Cass to lose sight of Rapunzel and Eugene, despite that, still felt their accusing eyes on her. The dignitaries quickly forgot about the ceremony, starting to talk to each other about whatever was relevant to them at that moment.

Princess Anna, together with the King and Queen of Arendelle, were chatting animatedly with Queen Marisol, probably arranging a diplomatic visit. That distracted her a bit from her justifiable paranoia, now she was certain that she would see Elsa again.

Cass turned to Elsa, finding her figure in a rigid posture as she tilted another glass of wine to her lips. Unlike her princess outfits, the military uniform gave her authority to the point of looking intimidating.

She showed little interest in mingling with others, surely devising a way to sneak into the gardens. In a way, Cassandra liked that side better, she didn't want to imagine her any other way.

"Do you want something to drink?" Cassandra offers.

"I can go get another drink on my own," Elsa replies.

"That's not what I asked, do you want something to drink?" Cass insists.

Elsa thought about it for a while, staring at her gleaming, empty glass, making a strange expression that Cassandra was beginning to find adorable. She couldn’t refuse anything in the face of the princess's charm.

"Okay, maybe one more," she relents, handing it to Cassandra.

She nodded to their request, walking straight to a long table where employees poured drinks and placed them on trays that servers handed out. Both glasses were filled with red wine, and she drank a few krumekakes as an appetizer, balancing them between her hands to carry them without breaking.

Cassandra was about to return to Elsa when a small hand grabbed her arm. She was about to yell at the idiot who almost made her spill the drinks on her uniform before she met those emerald eyes that caused her pain.

Every night Cass missed her, regretted turning back on her, and longed to apologize once more; But having her in front, with that reproachful look, she transformed nostalgia and regret into annoyance.

"Cass, could you stop avoiding us?" Rapunzel asks in a pleading tone. "Please, we've been looking for you for months. In your last letter you didn't even tell us where you were going, why didn't you come home?"

She took one last look at Elsa, who was beginning to approach to help her; However, was intercepted at the last minute by a man who obstructed her sight. Her escape route had just burned. She couldn't feign insanity; it was time to be brave and reconcile with her past.

"I have a new job now," Cassandra says, gently pushing her away. "I don't need you to worry about me. I am fine."

"Why didn't you come to us? Do you know how problematic it will be for Corona? "

She struggled to contain her indignation. Cass must have imagined that this was not a warm reunion.

"I don't work for you anymore, Your Highness," Cass says coldly, trying to get away. "Those are the kinds of things that it is up to you to resolve through diplomatic channels."

"You confided state secrets to the Princess of Arendelle, that's within my jurisdiction," Raps replies exasperatedly, blocking her way. "And as far as I know, you don't work for her either. We were here, you knew that. Why didn't you even try to contact us?"

Pushing his way through the crowd, Eugene walked over to them. He blended in so well with the nobles that no one would suspect his criminal past.

It was as ironic as the people of Corona forgave him for all his mistakes: his years as the most wanted bandit in the Seven Kingdoms vanished as soon as he brought the lost princess home. But Cass, who was always an upright and law-abiding citizen, was not given the benefit of the doubt.

"Girls, this isn't the place to make a fuss," Eugene interjects, beckoning them to lower their voices. "Cassandra, we rejoice in your new title and wonderful job, we hope that one day you will visit us in our humble abode. I understand that you have a very powerful ally here in Arendelle."

"My duties include protecting Eldora's ties to its partners, safeguarding the interests of both sides," she explains suspiciously to the princess, ignoring Eugene. "You are not on that list. Right now, you can't play the best friends’ card with me."

"This wasn't what you promised me when you set out on your journey," Raps accuses. "Do you realize than repeat the same mistakes? How do you intend to find your destiny if...?"

She didn't need to have it rubbed in her face, though it didn't matter at the end of the day. Rapunzel wouldn't understand, they had suffered in very different ways, they were assigned opposite roles.

Of course, Raps would wait for an aimless adventure that would bring her home, while Cass would look for a place to settle down that she would eventually call home. She couldn't hate her for having contrary views.

"I'm happy this way. Captain Árnadalr has helped me realize that" she says, trying to keep her emotions at bay. "You have your happily ever after, which is wonderful. I don't fit in there. I promised to come back when I had a reason of my own, not when you ask me to. I know you don't trust Elsa, so trust me:  She don't mean to harm you."

A few feet away, behind Eugene and Raps, Elsa was waiting for her. From the look she was directing at Cass, could tell that she heard the whole discussion. Cass muttered an apology to her friends, leaving without saying goodbye.

She needed to distance herself to clarify her ideas before she did something crazy.

She didn't think had the strength to refuse the offer to return to them a second time.

Cass longed to set foot on Coronan soil, but she refused to give up when was so close to conquering her goals.

The only thing that stopped Elsa from intruding on Cassandra's conversation with Corona's heirs was the way she referred to them as her best friends. Elsa stood holding the good quality bottle she had asked Gerda for, waiting for Cass to return, so as not to press her.

As soon as Cass handed her the cup, she asked her to accompany to another place. They slipped through the crowd into the garden, quite sure they were alone. At least, as alone as they could.

"I never thought I was grateful for the nobles' lack of interest in other human beings. It's convenient up to a point," Cassandra jokes, trying to sound carefree.

"Hypocrisy is often part of the job," Elsa nods, guiding her down the dimly lit path. "Believe me, I hate these events as much as any other. I prefer formal meetings; those are brief, and you shouldn't compliment their outfits every fifteen minutes."

"Your sister seems to enjoy the party."

They sat on a bench under a large tree, shoulder to shoulder, drinking in silence and refilling their glasses when they ran out. None of them had any intention of prolonging the conversation. The strong taste brought Elsa back to the facts.

In a couple of days, after the closing speech, all the ships would set sail, taking Cassandra with them.

"Anna loves interact with other people. I dare to believe that she became friends with Rapunzel in less time than it would take anyone. She's so outgoing that sometimes she's naïve," Elsa explains again, although a little unsure of the diction of her words. "Will you be returning to Corona?"

"You know I don't. You heard me," Cassandra sighs without looking at her, taking one of Elsa's hands in hers without warning. "I wish I could, but I'm one step away from achieving my dreams and I owe a lot of that to you."

Perhaps because of the effects of the wine, Elsa leaned her head against Cass, in a poor attempt to grant her the comfort she would reject but needed. Elsa tried to remind herself that the issue of the ambush, the arrest, and even the awarding of medals was a mere political distraction; the Council surely relented in granting it in exchange for charging her that favor in the future. However, for Elsa, Cassandra was a true hero.

"You can come to Arendelle whenever you need to, or if you're looking for a place to settle permanently. We welcome foreigners," Elsa offers, looking at her wistfully. "Would it be selfish to ask you to stay?"

"It would be cruel if you didn't," Cass corrects wryly. "And what will I do? Finding a job and being a good person? Maybe you're the naïve one."

They smiled at each other, slowly getting closer.

Elsa considered herself to be relatively resistant to alcohol, she could withstand several drinks with hardly any noticeable effects on her body. But somehow, she felt completely out of herself at that very moment.

She had an unpleasant feeling in her stomach the entire time Cassandra spent with Rapunzel, looking at her longingly; Elsa didn't know the history between them, but she could infer that at least Cass had mixed feelings at some point. She wanted all of this to be hers and not the heiress of Corona.

In a sudden act of bravery and recklessness, the princess's arms encircled Cassandra and hid her face in Cass’s neck, trying to contain how disturbed she was. The drink was beginning to cloud her judgment.

Being with Cass made Elsa feel so much, she lost her self-control; However, it was also a haven that stopped her from freezing the entire kingdom. It was crazy to fall in love with someone she barely knew, yet Elsa wanted to believe it.

That Eldoran guard would be the new face she would think about for months before completely forgetting what her true characteristics were.

Anna may have been the romantic of the sisters, but deep-down Elsa wished she could really fall in love, at least once in her life. Even if it wasn't reciprocated, she longed to know why everyone was looking for true love.

"I can tolerate magical hair, though I have to get used to having frost on my uniform," Cassandra laughs, shaking some ice crystals from the fabric. "Don't worry, it's okay."

"I'm probably misunderstanding everything," sighs Elsa, about to commit the biggest stupidity of her life. "When I was a child, I feared that these powers would cause me conflict if they got out of control."

"Never did?" Cass whispers, cradling the princess's face to force their gazes to meet.

Elsa could feel Cassandra's breath on her skin as she caressed her cheeks. How was she supposed to react? Was it a boost because of all the emotional turmoil they went through together the last few days? The rational part of her brain insisted it was that, yet she refused to listen to it.

"Sometimes," she confesses, her pulse racing. "I had to learn to control them on my own, it almost caused chaos at my debut party and... They only escape me when I'm nervous."

"Do I make you nervous?"

"You can't imagine how much."

She shortened the distance by bumping their mouths. Immediately walked away in fear, expecting to see disgust or disdain in the expression of Eldora's guard.

Not knowing exactly who made the first move, she again found the other's lips getting lost in them. Her obvious clumsiness was compensated by Cassandra's hesitation.

Elsa tangled her fingers in the waves of black hair that fell harmoniously like a curtain. It was so smooth, gentle, and with a slight fruity flavor that it made her crave more. She longed to hold on to that feeling for the rest of her life, but knew they were there for anyone who chose to pry. They broke off contact after what could have been a few seconds or several minutes, both blushing.

For the first time she wanted to be a capricious princess who demanded that her savior stay by her side. Cassandra's gray eyes seemed to hover around the same idea.

"I'm sorry, I didn't want to—" Elsa hesitates, feeling her face burn. "I didn't want to make you uncomfortable," she added.

"No, I should have stopped. It was inappropriate, Your Highness," Cass denies, more nervous than Elsa. "God, what am I doing?"

Elsa smiled shyly at Cass insecurity, adopting for the first time a confidence she didn't know had. Gave her another quick kiss and took Cassandra's hands in her own, reassuring her.

Whether it was because of the drunkenness, the near-death experience, or because she had strong feelings for Cass that continued to grow, Elsa wanted to make it clear to her that she had no regrets.

"Would it be selfish to ask you to stay?" She asked, quietly.

"Too much," Cass said, bringing their foreheads together. "If you do, I won't be able to leave."

"Then I won't," she whispered, feeling her heart break. "You must go back to Eldora, fulfill your dream, and if after that your heart decides to stay there or return to Corona, I will not reproach you."

A small tear ran down her cheek, it hurt to be reasonable. That wasn't the magical fairytale love promised by the novels Anna recommended. It was just a fleeting, impossible summer crush.

"If I decide to come here?" Cass asked, a little distressed. "Am I not enough to woo a princess?"

"If you come to Arendelle, then we'll figure it out. Together." Elsa promises, without hesitation.

Chapter Text

Nights in Corona Harbor used to be warm and quiet, with no prying eyes or unnecessary attention. The royal guards stirred restlessly as the ship docked when it met the Arendellian ship on the high seas, transporting the criminals that the Coronans lost nearly three months earlier.

Rapunzel had gotten the long-awaited conference with King Agnarr that she had been tasked with arranging to make, however, instead of touching on the points that mattered to her, the King said that they would keep quiet about the incident in exchange for exemptions from tariffs on Arendellian products that were traded within the Seven Kingdoms. A bad treatment that she was forced to accept, which increased the tensions of the alliance.

She was sick of playing at being the princess regent.

"You don't have to be here if you don't want to," Eugene whispers. “The boys and I can take care of it.”

"I must be here," she declined.

She was thankful that Eugene didn't insist. Besides being a wonderful husband, he was a great friend.

The deported prisoners came down in line, and she struggled to suppress a cry of indignation. Their state of health was deplorable, they seemed that during their arrest in Arendelle no one even bothered to heal their wounds or even provide them with food.

They shuffled along, staring blankly at nothingness, not resisting the guards' grip. As if their souls had been snatched away. While they had committed many terrible acts, she believed that they should at least be treated with respect because they were people. She did not know how cruel the management of the Arendelle prisons was.

They put them in the wagons they had prepared, bound for Ingvarr, who had decided during the last conference of heads of state that Corona was no longer fit to preside over the alliance's foreign policy. The soldiers assigned to lead the extradition quickly drove the Coronan guards away, causing a small stir.

"This is not our fault," Rapunzel says to herself. “We couldn't anticipate what would happen... It was a coincidence.”

The problem was that she was no longer so sure of the veracity of her words.

Since her father fell ill, she was forced to take on all those responsibilities that were taken away from her during her period of adaptation to life in the palace. In the blink of an eye, she had to take over most of Corona's obligations abroad, which proved disastrous.

In less than six months had reversed multiple trade agreements with the eastern territories, lost part of their maritime fleet, and were being pressured by their own allies to cede the historic Corona’s leadership over the Seven Kingdoms.

And she could not turn to her mother's advice, since she was resolving the multiple internal crises of the country, derived from the disastrous encounter of moonstone with sundrop.

She learned the hard way that a country with destroyed infrastructure cannot be built with good will and intentions, but that it required a lot of money. That from financial mismanagement other problems are unleashed, that people get sick and go hungry, that the crisis is the perfect breeding ground for conflict. Corona was walking a fine line between greatness and chaos.

"Don't worry, Sunshine," Eugene smiles, trying to keep morale high. “We'll be able to figure it out, we've come out of worse situations.”

"Yes, we have," she replied, an unpleasant sensation coursing through her body.

They walked back to the castle once the transfer was over.

She forced herself to stay strong because her people needed her.

She had to remind them of Koto, Neserdnia, Bayangor, Galcrest, Pittsford, and Ingvarr; to the whole world, if necessary, that Corona was not a kingdom that could be despised.

The unfortunate practice dummy wasn't to blame for anything that was happening to her. The filler was threatening to slip out of its container, and she still felt like her needed to reduce it to powder. She took a deep breath, believing she would calm down, though the sweltering heat threatened to bring her down.

Things in Eldora had improved quite a bit in the last few months. She was assigned a key position as the castle's security supervisor, oversaw the selection and training of new recruits, and even served as logistical support for the soldiers assigned to the capital city's wall.

Her busy days filled with important slogans, direct engagements with Queen Marisol, and preventing looting in the villages, kept her mind occupied. However, all those good things took a back seat when she went to sleep. Not having activities gave her a chance to think about Elsa.

She punished herself with that almost daily, remembering the kisses they shared that evening. Everything had gone well: they walked through the castle gardens talking about their future, returned to the ball, and spent some time with the soldiers. Elsa even wished her goodnight with another kiss on the lips at the door of the room assigned to Cass.

Cassandra thought they were good signs to clear up whatever they had, until the moment they said goodbye in the harbor and the princess only gave her as a present a precious sword with the emblem of the royal family of Arendelle, without saying a word.

What did that mean?

Gratitude? Longing? A simple gift? Or the payment for helping to improve her skill with weapons?

Part of it was her fault. After all, it was Cassandra's own decision to drop her barriers for Elsa, as she hadn't done with anyone else since Rapunzel. The Princess of Arendelle had been one of the few people who did not look down on her. She liked feeling like she was someone's first choice.

She had grown fast in love with her, and now all these events seemed fake. If it weren't for Queen Marisol's constant reminder, she probably would have convinced herself of that.

"There's more correspondence for you, Lieutenant," says a young soldier, entering her office.

Fed up with the monotony of the day, she plunged her sword deep into the dummy's chest. She ran her hands through her hair, trying to tidy it up a bit.

The only thing she reproached was that she was not promoted in rank. Due to the stubbornness of the current captain, who had the full support of the Council, they did not give Cass his title, despite forcing her to cover all the activities that corresponded to him.

Neither Queen Marisol nor General Talha could intervene much in this matter. The Royal Guard was regulated by the Council of Eldora, as they were independent of the army.

They asked her to be patient. The man was on the verge of retiring and, with the backing of two important figures, Cass was the frontrunner to replace him.

"Leave them on the desk," she orders listlessly, making room on the cabinet.

"With all due respect, Lieutenant Krone," the soldier interjects, somewhat fearfully, putting down a small pile of papers. “I think you should answer some of them, the postal service between Corona and Eldora is not cheap.”

"That's none of your business," she replies, picking up the sealed envelopes, discarding any of a personal nature to put in a drawer.

To her surprise, found among all those letters one that did not contain the sender's details, however, the wax stamp made its origin clear. Cass recognized that petulant emblem with a flower... it was from some member of the arendellian royal family.

"You can go," she asks her subordinate.

Cass opened the envelope as quickly as she could, only to find a refined sheet containing a brief message. The handwriting was elegant and clear, it didn't take a genius to figure out who it belonged to.

"I heard rumors about the weather in Eldora, is it true that they seem to live in an eternal summer?" she read aloud, imagining how difficult it was for Elsa to dare to send her. “I don't think it will be a problem for the Ice Princess.”

She stopped her sarcastic internal debate to review the month's list of activities. A ship would arrive that week from Arendelle, with its usual mercantile cargo, would it be possible that she would not be informed of a diplomatic visit?

"Lieutenant Krone," a pair of agitated guards call to her. “Captain Desta requests your presence, demands the assignment of rotations for the anniversary of Queen Marisol's coronation.”

She cursed under her breath, standing up. It was the least subtle sabotage attempt of the month. If the captain wanted to make her look incompetent to increase the chances of his son succeeding him in office, he would be in for a bitter surprise.

It was true that she was so immersed in the work that she felt like couldn't cover everything and wasn't entirely sure who was reliable to delegate some functions. Desta had promptly taken charge of turning several of the new additions against Cass.

Like a kingdom still carrying the abrupt transition of government, the royal guard had found itself quelling petty riots and crimes in some localities south of the capital. The captain's priorities should focus on maintaining internal stability, not on a fabulous gala that even the queen herself did not want.

Cassandra tore up a list she had prepared for the holidays, adding the allied foreign delegations at random along with the names of her best guards. It would be very foolish of the captain to want to sabotage that.

Just as she reached her, Cass stopped, thinking about abusing her position for the first time. Whether it was a fastidious ambassador or Princess Elsa herself, it would be a good thing for her to personally escort them. After all, she had the approval of the Arendelle royal family. She rolled up the paper and held it tightly in her hands.

"Boys," she said sternly. “I promise you, if I hear that you knew about this, I will send you out of the wall to hunt wild boar for a whole year.”

Before leaving the office, she picked up her sword. She was going to have a serious talk with the captain, to make it clear that she wouldn't allow them to play with her.

She had been at sea for more than a week and Elsa decided she absolutely didn't want to do it again.

She wondered why her parents allowed her to travel with the ambassador and Lieutenant Syversen, instead of insisting that she stay home for the harvest festival, which she would miss on her way back.

Going out on deck was exasperating, she could only see miles of blue water that made her feel tiny. They touched ashore on a couple of occasions to reload provisions, during which time she was not allowed to get off the ship. Elsa imagined that when they reached Eldora's harbor, it would be difficult for her to regain her sense of balance.

"Are you all right, Your Highness?" Syversen asks outside her cabin.

"Wonderful," Elsa said, closing the architectural book she picked up before leaving. “You don't have to ask it every four hours, I have nowhere to escape.”

The ambient temperature increased as they continued the route south. At any moment the captain of the ship would announce her destination, she had no clear idea of what to expect. Arendelle was a kingdom with abundant vegetation and marked seasons, whereas, according to geography books, Eldora was only dry and hot.

She placed one of her cold hands against her neck, momentarily relieving the discomfort caused by the inconvenient weather.

Thinking about it reminded Elsa of her pathetic letter to Cassandra. She regretted every day since she sent it, but even more regret how foolish and impatient she had been waiting for the answer. Did Cass receive it? And if she did, shouldn't she have given her an answer back?

Perhaps for Cassandra the kisses they shared were nothing more than an impulse caused by the intake of alcohol and the heat of the moment. Elsa wanted to believe it meant nothing, yet it failed miserably. She couldn't help but relive them in her memory. She blamed the universe a little for not allowing to forget her.

Just days after her life returned to normal, she received an invitation from Lieutenant Westen to attend his wedding; then Anna started a book club in the village library, almost forcing her to be present while she read to the children a compendium of mythology, choosing the most cloying and romantic stories whenever the opportunity was given. To make matters worse, the number of candidates for suitors on the Council's list continued to rise... Postponing their encounters and avoiding them became increasingly difficult.

"Your Highness," Syversen insists on the other side of the door. “According to the sailors, we are very close to the port.”

The tone of her guard's voice hinted that the idea did not excite him. Elsa could agree with him on that, if it was stifling on the high seas, inland it would get worse. Reluctant to leave her cabin, she decided to go out on deck, just to prove that she was capable of empathizing with the crew.

She climbed the steps to the outside, with Syversen behind her. She had to shield her eyes with one arm to avoid the blinding light of the sun. Once she adjusted to the luminosity, she could make out a thin line of ground on the horizon that became clearer as the minutes passed.

Elsa didn't usually feel hot, even in the most intense summers of Arendelle; She wiped the beads of sweat from her face, perceiving that the wind was suffocating instead of cooling her.

The bay was shallow, and because of the characteristics of the ship it could not get much closer without running the risk of running aground. As they lowered the anchor, the captain informed them that they would be transported to shore in a rowboat. That idea seemed to bother the ambassador more than it did her.

With effort, the crew managed to lower the three passengers along with their luggage and one of the sailors into the water. They immediately began to move, with the boat moving to the gentle sway of the waves. Lieutenant Syversen kept watch, watching for any sign of hostility, and the ambassador smoked a cigar.

The princess had to try to avoid coughing in the face of the cloud of smoke caused by the tobacco, focusing on the small, colorful fishing boats scattered a few meters from the harbor, so focused on their tasks to the point of ignoring the foreigners.

The differences between Eldorans and Arendellians were notorious, beyond their outfits made of different fabrics. Although Arendelle boasted of being a multicultural kingdom, everyone in her delegation was blonde, the locals had dark hair. It would be hard to go unnoticed.

The sailor rowed on until she reached the dock where several Eldoran soldiers were waiting for them; He tied the boat with a complicated knot, aligning it parallel to facilitate the descent of the travelers. Just as Elsa was about to disembark, a hand reached out to her. She took it confidently, turning to the person who offered it to her.

"Princess Elsa," Cassandra greets with a bow.

She was relieved to hear her name, simple and harmonious, on Cassandra's lips. She had to restrain the urge to hug her or claim her. Whatever the reasons for not responding to the letter, could ask later.

"Lieutenant Krone," Elsa smiles, genuinely happy to see her.

She momentarily forgot that Syversen or the ambassador were accompanying her, nor did she care about her luggage which was being loaded as cargo on a group of camels. Elsa accepted the arm Cass offered to escort her inland. The journey had been long, but to find her again, it was completely worth it.

For Queen Iduna of Arendelle, that afternoon was beginning to turn into her worst nightmare. She had waited years before she had the confidence to reveal the truth to Agnarr, who, despite feeling hurt, did not turn his back on her.

However, the worst came while waiting for their daughters to be old enough to hear her side of the story. They still hadn't found the time or the way to do it.

She didn't think that was an appropriate way to grow up, she hated secrets as much as her husband did. When Agnarr found out, he argued with Lord Peterssen for hours, ignoring the reasonable words of his advisor. Much to their chagrin, they knew that the man had very valid reasons for asking them to be silent. Now, having made up their minds, they would repeat the pattern.

The king's office felt oppressive, the portraits on the walls seemed to judge her, reminding Iduna that she was not noble, nor Arendellian. Agnarr took her hand, gently stroking it with his thumb. His green eyes, full of kindness and love, sent her a reassuring message. They had to rely on their daughter to protect their legacy.

"Your Majesties, General Solberg," Anna greets with a bow.

"Lieutenant Árnadalr," the General replies, motioning for her to come in.

A message had been sent to Anna earlier that morning, addressed to Lieutenant Árnadalr, for a private national security meeting. Of all the things Iduna reproached the Council with, this was the one she hated the most: that they forced her daughters to take up arms and used them to force the people of Arendelle to do the same.

Perhaps the goal of preparing them to fight Northuldra wasn't explicit, but she knew it was there.

However, neither Anna nor Elsa noticed these hidden intentions, they even seemed to enjoy it. They proudly wore the uniform; they were ready to give their lives for the freedom of their citizens. As a mother, Iduna could not deny the satisfaction she took to see them grow into upright and responsible women; Like Northuldra, she was repulsed by the mere idea that they unconsciously hated a part of them.

"We have an important assignment for you, Anna," Iduna says, overturning the strict protocol they agreed to during their active duty. “We really hoped we wouldn't have to ask you now, but we've been putting it off for months.”

"It's a task that was entrusted to Lieutenant Syversen," the General clarifies. “And in his absence to accompany Princess Elsa, you are the one who is still in the line of command.”

He invited Anna to come to the desk, where they had spread out a map of the kingdom, including the northern territories that were not inhabited. They had traced the route Iduna and Agnarr had taken in their youth, to inquire every semester if the magical barrier on which she had left behind the Northuldras, their people, their family, still existed.

"Every year, we send a troop of high-confidence soldiers to check on the fog surrounding the Enchanted Forest," Agnarr declares, trying to hide his concern. “We've never seen any changes, but...”

To some extent, the subjects' anxious need for frequent checks on the conditions of the Northuldra territory had been lost. She knew that eventually they would become less and less frequent, forget that grim chapter, and turn their attention to another plausible threat. A part of Iduna had a dark desire for that to accelerate.

"I understand," Anna replies, perhaps remembering the bedtime stories her father told her as a child. “I will obey the order.”

Iduna wanted to cower for a second, before she felt a gentle handshake from her husband. He was there, silent by her side for almost fifteen years. More than the king of Arendelle, Agnarr would always be her best friend.

"General, could you leave us alone with the lieutenant?" The king asks.

Solberg nodded, bowing, and walking out discreetly. They didn't speak right away; they waited several seconds until they were sure no one could hear them. Any leak of information would be disastrous.

"Anna, there's something important we need to tell you," Iduna sighs, taking her little girl's hands.

"Please be discreet about what we're going to tell you," Agnarr adds, quietly. “You can't say this to anyone, not even Elsa.”

"And why can't Elsa know?" Anna replies angrily, hating the idea of hiding things from her sister. “It's just an expedition, she knows that...”

Anna was silent as she realized the seriousness of the matter. She looked down at the map once more, analyzing it like a battlefield. That threatened to break Iduna's heart, could military indoctrination be so ingrained in her daughter that it turned her against her?

"Elsa is the heir," her father reminds her. “And for the people of Arendelle, she's a heroine. If this information becomes public, it could be a threat not only to the kingdom but could take away her right as successor.”

They waited for Anna's expression to soften. Unlike Elsa who used to see the world through a filter of benefits, possibilities, problems, and threats; Anna understood people, gave second chances, and wasn't so harsh when it came to judging others.

She handed her daughter the knitted shawl, which was the only belongings she took with her to Arendelle. Anna looked at the garment confused, because she had always recognized it and knew only half the story behind.

"I don't think I'm understanding," Anna says, embarrassed to admit it.

"Your grandmother knitted it when I was a baby," Iduna explains, her little girl's fingers tracing the pattern of the embroidery. “This symbol belongs to my family; it corresponds to the spirits of nature." She slowly caressed each diamond with her fingertips: “water, fire, air, and earth...”

From the look on her face, Anna seemed to recognize part of the story, though she couldn't come to the right conclusion; She clung tightly to the cloth, perhaps trying to get an answer that way.

Her daughter's gaze was focused on her, the queen spoke little or nothing of her parents; in the village and the castle the official version was occasionally mentioned (a couple of soldiers who perished in the battle of the dam) but Iduna never commented on them: not a name, not a place, just random little memories.

"The person who saved me in the Enchanted Forest was your mother," Agnarr interjects, confirming Anna’s suspicions. “She didn't have to; she could have gone back to her family... We were meant to be enemies, but she decided I didn't deserve to die, and ended up here accidentally. She has lived every day for the last thirty years, hiding it.”

Tears pooled on their daughter's face; Anna couldn't find the words to express the anger she felt. Anna hugged them both tightly, overwhelmed by the wave of feelings that assailed her, commiserating for her mother's fate.

"Is it a sin to be born in another territory? Why not say it? She arrived as a child, she couldn't even be informed of anything," Anna asks, her voice breaking, watching her mother expectantly. "Mom hasn't betrayed anyone, everyone loves her, Arendelle has thrived, and much of that work has been done by you... isn't that enough to grant forgiveness?”

"Fear is a powerful weapon," Iduna murmured, brushing her hair. “Your father and I grew up hearing false accusations about Northuldra, people fear what they don't understand. For them, we snatched a king from them, we fought against their soldiers, we left dozens of children orphaned... They are still very fresh scars”.

«If only they knew», thought the queen.

No one was certain of what had happened in that battle, they still didn't know which side attacked first or what the objective was. For both her and Agnarr, it was unthinkable to suspect anyone. Anna would have to deal with that burden alone and question whether it was worth unearthing the truth.

"If anything happens to us, Elsa's ignorance can be her shield to protect the kingdom," Iduna adds, loathing herself for causing her pain. “We need you to know, to be prepared for any possible blow. So far, we don't know the culprit, if there is one. Anna, you must take care of your sister.”

"Elsa and I swore to protect Arendelle," she reminds her. “I will defend our kingdom, without shedding innocent blood," Anna promises, her head held high. “If the fog clears, I'll take care of smoothing out those rough edges for people's well-being.”

The queen smiled, a warm feeling in her chest. She couldn't be prouder of Anna, her sweet and brave Anna, her love could hold up the world.

"The journey to the palace is long, ideally to do it on horseback," Cassandra explains to the Arendellian delegation, leading them through the market to meet other foreign dignitaries buying spices and carpets. “We will leave in a caravan with this group, although I must warn you that due to the frequent sandstorms it is possible that we will be separated.”

Even though Cass wasn't a fan of the heat, she was starting to get used to it, but she couldn't say the same for the guests.

The ambassador nodded to her explanation, wiping his sweat with a handkerchief; Lieutenant Syversen looked uncomfortable in his heavy, dark-colored wool uniform; while Elsa rubbed her hands constantly against her face or neck, having more success than her companions in resisting the inclement deserts.

"How long?" The ambassador asks, extremely worried. “Hours? Days? Weeks?”

"One night if we pick up the pace, two if it's the lieutenant's decision to make stops at each checkpoint," jokes a hoarse voice that was dedicated to making Cass's life miserable.

She turned annoyed to Captain Desta, who greeted the guests animatedly, using a false tone of politeness and help. He was an older, stout, uncompromising man, forged in the ancient way where military duty was inherited.

He was one of the first opponents of admitting foreigners to Eldora's army and refused for months to accept Cassandra into the royal guard. After learning that she was one of the favorites to be his successor, he was more than willing to take her out of the equation.

"Princess Elsa, it's an honor to finally meet you. I'm Hayat Desta, captain of Eldora's royal guard," the man greets, bowing. "I hope the trip was enjoyable.”

"It was, thank you," Elsa replies in a dry, formal tone. “If we don't want any more delays, we must start now.”

Cassandra watched her, surprised by her reaction, Elsa nodded to continue. They moved between the stalls to the end of the market where a group of soldiers fed the camels and horses.

She led the Arendellians in front of the animals assigned to them, Desta following close behind, with an accusatory look. Cass waited for some other officer to distract him, though she had no luck.

"We'll wait for the rest of the group," Cassandra informs, as one of her subordinates offers them a cup of tea. “It's safer that way.”

"No, Your Highness. Lieutenant Krone's plan is adequate, but not comfortable for personalities of your class," the captain interjects, pointing to a strange wagon-like vehicle. “You should come with me, we will travel tirelessly, and arrive tomorrow at dawn. Our transportation is more appropriate for a distinguished lady like you.”

"It's not necessary, Captain," Elsa declines, despite the ambassador's obvious protests. “We will follow the itinerary that others make. I hope you will give the space to some other guest who requires it.”

Seeing that he could not convince her, the captain reluctantly left. He called his men to load the equipment with provisions, hitched the horses to the vehicle, and made their way south, leaving a cloud of dust in their wake.

Gradually, the rest of the dignitaries approached. The caravan leader gave a series of basic survival directions and handed out a compass to each royal guard. Cass offered Elsa to ride her mare, Fidella.

Unlike the other military steeds, Fidella had been trained at Corona to transport royals, so it made sense to allow to return to her old occupations.

"I hope I don't regret this," Elsa murmurs as they walk away from the harbor and into the desert.

"I don't think you will," Cassandra replies, beside her. “It's up to me to introduce you to the wonderful things Eldora has to offer.”

She received a sweet smile from the princess that made her feel satisfied. Maybe things between them hadn't gone completely wrong.

After hours locked in her room mentally reviewing the conversation with her parents, Anna decided that as much as she hated to admit it, Lord Peterssen made the right decision.

She had grown up in a wonderful Arendelle, full of kind, polite, well-meaning people who had suffered great losses in a very short span of time. The people clung with all their might to blaming the Northuldras for the few misfortunes they had suffered in recent years. They had no other enemies, it was a kingdom that thrived almost unhindered, and the only thing they could fear was the unknown: magic.

They blamed regicide on a group of individuals who believed they possessed magic, although according to her mother this was not the case. So, what would they be able to do if they found out that a person with that power was going to lead them?

Anna couldn't put that burden on Elsa.

"Princess Anna," Gerda calls to her on the other side of the door. “Dinner is ready.”

"I'll come down in a moment," she replies, discouraged.

She stared for a long time at the mannequin in her military uniform, wondering what it would have been like if, instead of being kept out of the fog, her parents had remained locked in.

Would they have fallen in love? Would their lives be different? Would she and Elsa exist?

She went down to the dining room almost shuffling, missing her sister, who would surely have a good plan to dialogue with the Northuldra leaders and use the blood tie as an advantage.

Elsa had a good heart, she was more than a skilled princess in politics or a smart military officer, she had been willing to risk her life for her kingdom.

Still, Anna understood why her parents chose her and waited for Elsa to leave, after all her sister was being trained to be an Arendellian queen. She didn't have to care about their ancestors, but about her subjects.

They were at different ends of the same bridge.

Chapter Text

Due to the desert heat, the sweltering air, the discomfort of sitting in the saddle for hours, and how dehydrated she felt, Elsa hadn't tried to start any kind of conversation with Cassandra; even though curiosity gnawed at her. They simply continued to ride in a particular direction, following the caravan guide.

Honestly, it was difficult for the princess of Arendelle to distinguish where they were located. All the dunes looked the same and there was no geographical feature or village to use as a reference point.

The mare she was riding apparently caught her uneasiness, for she neighed annoyed, turning her head to Cassandra, resembling a call.

"Don't worry, Fidella," Cass asks, without looking at her. “The first checkpoint is just around the corner.”

Elsa would have believed her, two mirages ago.

Fidella snorted in disapproval.

The dignitaries were beginning to show their displeasure, claiming that the way they were being received was inadmissible, but upon hearing that they had been treated in the same way as the heiress of an important partner, they became a little more tolerant.

"First stop!" The caravan leader announces, arriving at a small military barracks guarding a well.

Eldora's soldiers dismounted, leading the horses to drink water. Cassandra also got off her steed and helped Elsa do the same, finding a shady space for them to rest.

They leaned against the earthy wall of the small building, watching the rest of the group share dried dates as an appetizer. Some waiters were handing out tea to those present. It was a rather complacent sight.

"Was the trip exhausting?" Cass asked, in a carefree tone, alluding to the phrase the princess used when they first met.

"I've had worse, Lieutenant Krone," Elsa replies with a half-smile, understanding her intentions “And the things here?”

"Do you want me to be honest?" The guard asks, watching her intensely. “A complete disaster, I detest bureaucracy.”

With her foot, Elsa swept some sand on the ground, to allow her to speak. Cass had looked awkward and embarrassed in front of Captain Desta, which made the princess think that Cassandra's promotion didn't go according to her plans.

"I must wait for my superior's retirement and pray that the Council will consider me the best candidate," she continues. “So, here I am, just as you met me. I should have accepted your offer.”

"That doesn't have an expiration date," Elsa mutters carefully. “I owe you a lot, Cassandra. A military rank is not enough to pay off my debt.”

"I owe you a lot, too, Your Highness," Cassandra replies.

"Oh! Stop it!” Elsa retorts, playfully pushing her. "I thought we were past this stage, Cass."

"Have we? You called me 'Lieutenant Krone' as soon as you touched Eldoran soil," She protests, frowning.

Involuntarily, a smile settled on Elsa’s face, and she could imagine how wonderful Arendelle would be when she had the crown: her being queen, Anna as her chief representative visiting exotic lands, and, perhaps, Cassandra at her side, in charge of military affairs. It was better than what she had planned.

"Can we make a deal?" She offers, suddenly serious. “I'll stop calling you ‘Lieutenant Krone’, if you'll give up that ridiculous idea of calling me ‘Your Highness’."

"All right, Captain Árnadalr," Cass agrees, in a mocking tone.

There was something about the way pronounced it that made it softer. Cass's eyes had flashed for an instant, making Elsa’s heartbeat harder. As much as she tried to ignore all the signals her body was sending, she couldn't blind herself to the answer: she was beginning to fall in love with Cassandra.

In the middle of the night, the caravan reached the second checkpoint, causing Cass to breathe a sigh of relief. If it had only been her soldiers, she would have pushed them in the early hours to arrive in the capital city early in the morning. However, they had a large contingent of refined nobles who behaved like ballast.

Once their subordinates had pitched their tents to allow them to rest, they handed out blankets to protect the guests from the dangerously low temperatures that plagued the area as soon as the sun went down.

Cassandra lay awake with the first group standing guard. They had to be aware of everything: keeping an eye on the small campfire, keeping away herds of wild boars, and, of course, the species of venomous snakes, although the latter was the responsibility of the caravan leaders.

She leaned forward, rubbing her gloved hands against each other, forcing herself to ignore the tingling sensation that prevailed in her right hand even three years after the incident with the decay incantation.

The desert climate was characterized by being extreme, she was beginning to believe that would never get used to it. She fiddled with the pommel of her sword for a while, staring at a distant point on the horizon, before felt a presence beside her.

"It's rude to spy on someone, Princess Elsa," she whispers, to prevent other people from overhearing.

"We had a deal, Lieutenant Krone," the melodious voice of the Arendellian heiress replies quietly.

"You had to be more specific, there's a huge difference between ‘Your Royal Highness’ and ‘Princess Elsa of Arendelle’." Cass jokes, turning to her. “Sleeping problems?”

Elsa nodded, scanning the sky with her blue eyes. That simple gesture reminded her of Rapunzel, who could effortlessly name several constellations from memory.

However, that was as far as the similarities went. Elsa was taller, with a more mature silhouette and her blonde hair was so pale it could pass for white. There was no room in her expression for boundless curiosity or irrepressible desire for adventure, but instead pure determination and protective impetus.

"They're the same ones I see at home," Elsa explains, tracing a figure Cass couldn't identify with her finger. “But I appreciate them in greater detail.”

"I didn't know you were interested in astronomy.”

"Oh, really isn’t the case. It's my mother who likes stars and science in general," Elsa laughs sweetly. “I'm better at math, which is great for managing a kingdom... And your thing?”

"Cartography," Cass replies, thinking of her maps of Corona tucked away in the back of her closet. “It's a useful hobby.”

She heard a sound of affirmation from Elsa, who was still focused on the vault of heaven. Her thoughts wandered for a moment, returning her to Arendelle, that dreamlike realm where, for the first time in two years, she didn't feel like a stranger.

Only her heart knew how much she longed to return to those lands, restart her life and do things properly. She loved what had gained in Eldora, she would be eternally grateful to her ruler, she was beginning to feel grounded but not totally comfortable. The only thing tempting her to leave them behind was the promise of someone she felt was starting to know.

"Cassandra," Elsa's voice interrupted.

"What's happening?" She asked, in an impolite tone.

"I really want to figure it out," Elsa declares, implying that while Cass was lost in her thoughts, she had said something important. “About us, what happened in the garden that night before you left. If given the opportunity, I'd like to figure it out.”

«Oh my god, did Elsa really mean that?» thought Cassandra.

Before Cass could give her an answer, Elsa planted a kiss on her cheek, tickling her with her barely warm touch against the cold wind.

"I'll go to sleep, the trip was really bad," the princess whispered close to her face, with a hint of irony.

The words again couldn't leave her lips and she caught a mischievous twinkle in the Arendellian's eyes. If that was the start of a small war over who would give in first to the other, Cass was losing.

Upon arriving at Eldora's castle, Elsa simply regretted not insisting a little longer to stay home. The harvest festival wasn't even remotely close on her list of favorite holidays, but at least in Arendelle she wouldn't feel like an idiot for almost confessing in front of Cassandra.

Sure, she could blame the heat and dehydration for clouding her judgment, though the truth lay in how incredibly beautiful Cass looked in military uniform. Without any effort, Eldora's soldier managed to look even more regal and attractive than any of her pompous suitors.

After paying their respects to Queen Marisol and being informed that they would be given some time to rest before the banquet in the afternoon, the Princess of Arendelle preferred to hide how uncomfortable she felt on her first solo diplomatic mission.

As she was escorted by Cass through the intricate corridors, she tried to maintain a magnificent bearing and calm countenance, catching the gaze of several employees. She guessed it was because of her appearance. She was accustomed to being singled out by her title, though after their bold conversation the night before, felt that all her secrets were exposed.

They came to a large gate in the south wing of the castle. Unceremoniously, Cassandra opened it revealing a rich décor that is pleasantly opposed to the guest rooms of her own home. A large window that opened onto a balcony gave a comfortable view of a small garden. She didn't want to get any misconceptions yet had the notion that Cass had stepped in to grant her that space.

"This will be your room," Cassandra says in a neutral tone. “At Eldora we don't usually leave our guests unprotected, so protocol requires me to stay with you," she added, pointing to a small space suitable for another person, in the far corner of the door. “If you don't want to have me here, I'll understand. I'll look for a replacement.”

"Protocol?" Elsa asked, pondering the idea for a few minutes.

"It's a custom, I don't make the rules," Cassandra replies.

Elsa smiled and patted her on the shoulder. It could be worse, right? Having Syversen with her would lead to misinterpretation. It was true that it seemed suspicious to assign the personal guard of the local monarch to a foreign princess, however, she knew that it was not in Eldora's or Arendelle's interest to initiate hostilities.

"I'm not the one to refute them," Elsa shrugs, taking a seat on the bed.

Cassandra stood, too nervous to say anything. It wasn't the first time she'd had to keep an eye on a crown princess 24 hours a day, but deep down she knew that this princess didn't need to be warned every mile not to put her full trust in strangers.

"Then," Elsa resumes, casually. “What about Eldora's weather?”

"I think you've experienced it, it's like that all year round," Cassandra replies, following Elsa’s movements with her eyes. “I received your letter a couple of days ago, the reply should be on its way to Arendelle.”

"A couple of days?" She asks, confused. “It's political correspondence, I sent it with the first mercantile shipment... It shouldn't have taken more than a week.”

Excellent. It was just what she needed to want to hit Captain Desta. As if getting in the way of her official duties wasn't enough, did he also have to interfere with her personal life?

So, if he delayed a missive from Arendelle, when were Corona's letters dated?

"I'll avoid using the royal seal, maybe some of your superiors might have thought it suspicious," Elsa sighs, before noticing that among the medals pinned to Cassandra's uniform, was the one awarded by her kingdom.

"You won't have to worry about that soon, Your Highness," Cassandra replies with a steely stare. “I must go and report to the General. Wait here.”

One of the things she liked about Eldora's military forces was that, despite the discordance of positions, the regular army, navy, and royal guard were usually in good communication.

Of course, meddling in the internal affairs of one organization or another gave way to conflicts. Even so, General Talha remained the most authoritative figure when it came to the security of the kingdom.

For Cassandra, Talha represented an intelligent man, who could recognize his weaknesses and ask for help without feeling ashamed.

He had an impeccable career, which had made him one of Cass's personal heroes: he had been the first member of the Eldoran Royal Guard without coming from a military lineage, he was promoted to captain at the express request of the king and to general shortly before His Majesty's death.

He was the one who, in his first months in office, gave the order to increase the number of recruits in the army, withdrawing the old guidelines that only admitted native-born Eldorans, as well as accepting a considerable number of women into his ranks. A rather controversial political move.

The General was never condescending to his subordinates and as soon as he realized the potential of several, they were his first recommendations for Captain Desta. Cassandra was on that waitlist for months, waiting for her chance. It was given to her when it became apparent that having it outside the castle was simply a mistake.

"General Talha," Cass introduces herself, giving a quick salute. “I have come to report my assignment: Princess Elsa of Arendelle is properly ensconced inside the guest bedroom.”

"Thanks, Lieutenant Krone, but you don't have to," Talha says, taking a seat behind his desk. “Desta's retirement is almost a given, and there is not a viable obstacle for you not to take office in a few months. We must wait.”

"I don't know if I can wait any longer," she replied before even thought about her words.

Talha was not a soft or kind-looking subject, his almost two meters tall and robust build (which were very different from the Eldoran stereotype) became intimidating; However, his eyes reserved a certain paternal reflex, almost imperceptible, with his favorite soldiers.

He had taken Cassandra under his wing on the grounds that she reminded him of his daughter, a respected admiral who lost her life in the same accident that killed Queen Marisol's parents, it made sense that he would show so much concern for her future.

"Listen to me, Krone," sighs the General. "I'm no one to tell you what to do. Eldora is not exactly the most politically stable country now, and I understand that offers such as those in Arendelle may seem appealing; But I promise you that nothing will stop me from giving you that title as long as I am alive. "

"How do you know about...?"

"Arendelle's proposal?" The man asks, flashing a winky smile. “Lieutenant Krone, you were given an appointment that puts you on a par with the lesser nobles in that country. You saved their heiress. You have a life figured out there, waiting for. If you ever plan to leave this kingdom, the prudent decision would be to go to Arendelle, not Corona.”

She wanted to hate that those words implicitly questioned her loyalty. However, Talha was right about several things, if she left Eldora, she would go to Arendelle, was determined, and did not doubt it. The only thing that tied her down at that moment was the promised position.

"I have no intentions of leaving," Cassandra warily replies.

"I know, but if things get difficult here and you have to do it, don't hesitate and take the first ship to Arendelle," Talha nods, with a cautious tone, as if he had seen the future and did not bode well.

The Arendellian army marched across an open field, with Lieutenant Árnadalr at its head, who seemed very lost in thought. The horses trotted along, allowing Anna not to worry too much about the route, shelter, or weather, though the sky was beginning to be covered in gray clouds.

"Lieutenant Árnadalr," says Dagmar, a young woman who enlisted at the same time as Anna and to whom she was relatively close. "I think it's time to stop for lunch, we haven't even taken a break for hours."

The words reached Anna's ears, but they were hard for her to process. She didn't want to stop, she had to get to that magic barrier as quickly as possible and see with her own eyes that they couldn't do anything. To make sure that whatever the secret was, would remain locked up, so as not to cause trouble for her sister.

"We won't," Anna replied sternly. “We have to gain ground before the rain starts, is that clear?”

Dagmar was dumbfounded for a few seconds, unaccustomed to this change in behavior in the youngest of the princesses. Of course, all the time there were rumors about Princess Elsa's rigidity and impassiveness, no one could get close to her and that certainly made her quite unpopular among the Royal Guard; but Princess Anna was quite the opposite, or at least she used to be.

"Yes, Lieutenant," the group replied listlessly.

The landscape slowly changed, leaving behind the lush forest that sheltered the populated area of Arendelle, giving way to wide plains with sparse vegetation. She tapped Kjekk's neck, reassuring herself.

She didn't like being in the middle of a conflict of interest. On the one hand, she was curious to know what was inside the fog, to know where her mother came from, to talk to all those people to restore peace. At the opposite end of the spectrum were her history lessons, her sworn duty to the kingdom, and that tactical distrust she was instilled in her from a young age.

That ball of sentimentality would not be an obstacle for Elsa, she would simply analyze her options and make the right decision. It made every sense in the world to send the clumsy, naïve Anna to test the waters.

Her whole body ached from the ride, so she was grateful for the cold gasp of a raindrop on her nose. The soldiers also breathed a sigh of relief, watching as a thin curtain of rain began to splash on them.

The group descended from the steeds and pitched their tents in record time for shelter. They passed the food from hand to hand, glad that it was not a deluge that delayed them more days than estimated, but enough to persuade the lieutenant.

Several had participated in expeditions like this on more than one occasion. Syversen was strict in the performance of his duty, though he had no vested interest in concluding as quickly as possible. They suspected that perhaps it had to do with an official event at the castle.

"Your Highness... I'm sorry, Lieutenant Árnadalr," a stout man who was around King Agnarr's age calls Anna. “If we continue at this pace, we will arrive tomorrow at dawn. We have six days to finish the mission, you can relax.”

"I know, still we'll continue" Anna declares, tempted to leave them behind.

Expressions of disgust spread among the subordinates, causing Anna to feel a small twinge of guilt. These people were just doing their job, and deep down, she knew that they would always see her as the overprotected daughter of a monarch.

"As ordered," the man nodded.

Anna's eyes were still fixed on the horizon, heading north. In thirty-two years, nothing had changed, had it? What made her think that they would magically find a weak spot that would let them go?

She didn't need to worry, just accept the facts, and repeat that trip a couple of times a year before her retirement. Doubt and fear, however, would gnaw at her until she saw with her own eyes that such a threat was unlikely.

Elsa has heard on countless occasions that her five best virtues were: elegance, intelligence, independence, patience, and prudence; evident from childhood, not because they are inherent traits of her personality, but an effective attempt to hide her magic from the world.

However, Elsa was not as patient as people presumed. On the contrary, her proactivity was an attempt to disguise how unwilling she was to wait for someone else to do things for her. She was bad at delegating responsibilities.

So, waiting for Cassandra's return, without any homework to do on her own, was a living hell. She mentally counted the number of bricks that made up the width, length, and height of the room to get an idea of the dimensions of Eldora's castle, a pathetic waste of time.

A couple of knocks on the door, followed by a "forward" from the princess, allowed her to see Cass back, who looked paler than usual. She had to resist the sudden urge to run to grab her by the shoulders and ask her what had happened.

She had a notion that Cassandra wouldn't accept compassion.

"The banquet will start in a few minutes, we should be going downstairs," Cassandra informs, clearing her throat.

Something whispered in her mind that it was best not to ask what was wrong. Eventually, Cass would tell her, right?

She took Cassandra's arm to escort her to the dining room, allowing her to see for a second in the mirror how well they fit together, like a couple. Her eyes met those of the reflection of the other young woman, whose thoughts were traveling in the same direction.

It was the first time she allowed herself to let go and fall in love. Up until that point, Cass was the only one to give her signs of perhaps sharing her feelings.

Would it be possible that she: Elsa Árnadalr, Princess of Arendelle, could she perform at formal events with Cassandra? Not as friends or colleagues, nor that she would take the place as her bodyguard, but as her mate.

She looked down for a few seconds, focusing on Cass's gloved hands, eager to intertwine her fingers with her.

That couldn't be happening to her, not when she'd already given up all hope of finding love, not when she'd resigned herself to the fact that Cassandra's silence was the polite way to reject her... Not when it was against all common sense to fall in love with someone she barely knew.

"Elsa, are you okay?" The informal tone brought down its walls.

If Cassandra kept doing that, she'd have Elsa at her complete will. Elsa needed it now, not tomorrow or in a hypothetical favorable future. She just wanted to know if her heart was worth betting on.

Then, as if the whole universe heard her prayer, she felt Cass's arms wrap around her in a comforting embrace. Cassandra’s body was as thin as Elsa's, but firmer. She felt as safe with her as she did that time when she lost control of her powers.

If she were a little more selfish, she would have asked her to leave, go together to Arendelle, make her dreams come true, and confront the world together.

But she wouldn't. Wouldn't force her to give up her freedom or leave behind what she built on her own. Elsa wouldn't make Cassandra an accessory to show off in presumptuous finery. Wouldn't be responsible for breaking her again.

"Elsa," Cass insisted, not letting go of her. “We'll be fine, we'll figure it out. I promise.”

She cradled the princess's face, before planting a small kiss on her forehead. It wasn't what Elsa expected, though somehow it felt more intimate than any other shared gesture.

Chapter Text

Queen Marisol of Eldora felt these dates as a constant reminder of her misery. The latent mark that she no longer had anyone in the world, except the castle staff. Yes, she knew princes and princesses desperate for the crown of their kingdoms, but more than a prize it felt like a curse.

Because she was the first single woman to take the reins of Eldora and that wasn't entirely welcome. Her main opponents lived within the walls of the royal city.

She stared for a while at the portrait on the wall of her study, where she saw her proud father with an infinitely kindly eyes next to her mother, so much like her that it hurt to even look in the mirror.

She despised the day saw them off at the port, not knowing that they would not return to celebrate her twenty-first birthday; nor that after two months of fruitless searching, the Council would unilaterally decide that she should take the throne.

Of course it was her duty, she had been trained to be a queen capable of leading her country, though she never felt that responsibility would really fall on her. She still didn't know some of their titles.

“Your Majesty,” General Talha says, entering the room. “I have confirmed your suspicions, the suitors are present, and they were promised a private audience with you.”

With a nod, Marisol looked back at the portrait of her parents. She wasn’t fool, she knew that the Council's insistence on hastening her to be crowned and married was an attempt to gain influence. All suitors were carefully chosen by them. They were not looking for a husband for her, but a puppet so that they could manipulate him.

“This would be easier if Krone were in charge of the guard,” sighs the young monarch sadly. “Desta has done an excellent job of excluding her”.

The General snorted, snorting at the paintings on the walls. In situations like these, it was difficult to approach people who were trustworthy. Together with the queen, they tried to align Cassandra with their intentions as she proved to be more than a soldier who followed orders and had no personal motive to act in favor of any faction, but the opposing side had anticipated that she would become a threat and were effectively neutralizing her.

“I don't know if we can count on her any longer,” Talha says. “I remember that when we opened our ranks to foreigners, the Council was very clear in imposing limitations on them in the hierarchy because of their dubious loyalty...”

“Do you think Lieutenant Krone plans to betray us?”

“Krone has no roots, at least not in her home country,” the General corrects, pacing around the room. “We can't question her loyalty if the only link she had is non-existent. However, I suspect Krone has received offers from other kingdoms.”

The monarch pondered for a few seconds before realizing who might be the main interested in hiring the services of her guard: Arendelle. The adorable kingdom that, under its façade of prosperity based on mercantile exchange and rich sea routes, had an army that seemed to be training for an imminent war. Had this trade arrangement been a ruse for Eldora?

“We'll worry about Arendelle later, let's prioritize our internal politics,” Queen Marisol requests, trying not to make a mistake by drawing hasty conclusions. “Do you know anything about the rebels in the south?”

“According to Krone's reports, they've been gathering weapons. They anticipate a war,” Talha reports, unrolling a map marking the recently liberated villages. “The royal guard has done the job, but I agree with Krone: they're not reliable. We have at least one spy among them, and perhaps the Council itself is funding the rebels. Anticipating the worst-case scenario, my soldiers have explicit orders to follow, even if something happens to me.”

“Is it really that serious?” Marisol asks.

“You know I'm not looked upon favorably by them, they won't hesitate to kill me if the opportunity presents itself,” the General declares truly. “They can't do anything to you, you must play your cards right. You can win, Your Majesty. We are more loyal to you.”

Marisol nodded, determined to impose her position.

She was going to make it clear to this council full of senile elders that she was no longer the clumsy princess who took part in wild horse races. She was an adult, a queen who would not hesitate to make complicated decisions.

“Then it’s show time.”

Yes, absolutely fate was against Anna. The muddy road encouraged the horses to trot, their bones ached from the cold temperatures and humidity of the environment, while their lungs protested from inhaling icy air.

Many people within the kingdom assumed that Anna's position in the royal guard was nothing more than mere decoration to try to improve the public perception of compulsory military service, and they would have said the same of Elsa had she not been the crown princess.

In another scenario, she would turn a deaf ear to such accusations, but now, aware of a possible threat looming over her kingdom like a dam about to break, she felt compelled to prove otherwise.

A look of relief swept across her face as they began a rapid descent down a rocky, sloping slope that gave way to another wide plain and like a latent memory of something wrong: a dense fog that emitted an unusual glow even against the faint rays of the morning light.

Almost forgetting her frustration, she spurred Kjekk to speed up and get there before anyone else against that magical barrier that rejected all the physical and chemical laws her tutor had taught. Now that she had the object of her father's goodnight story in front of her, she felt more fictitious than ever.

“Lieutenant Árnadalr,” her subordinates called, arriving shortly after.

Without a second thought, Anna climbed off the horse, burying her boots in the muddy ground, making a sucking sound every step she took. She hid her disgusted expression, repeating in her head her sister's mantra: “conceal, don't feel.”

She felt the mist with gloved hands, feeling more like a thick curtain than a wall, but as she tried to press against the surface a strange force pulled her back into place. She pushed with all her weight and all she could do was lose balance.

Stretched out her arms in an attempt not to fall to the ground. She pulled herself together with movements unbefitting for a sophisticated princess, pretending not to hear muffled laughter from the soldiers.

“Check your assigned sections,” Anna orders, trying to ignore the embarrassment. “Don't leave a single inch unchecked. If there are abnormalities, they report them directly to me.”

The group nodded, spreading out around the perimeter as they usually did, out of sight. Anna heaved a momentary sigh of relief as she continued to examine her part. She could almost really relax until found a point where, for an instant, her hand could pierce.

Asking Cassandra to relax was a waste of time, the dances always caused her a feeling of discomfort. To see so many people gathered in a small space, without worrying in the least about the number of accidents that might occur... It was just desperate.

She was standing close to a wall, following the Princess of Arendelle with her eyes, keeping a safe distance. Elsa had already danced with a couple of nobles and was currently engaged in a random conversation about the wind and transporting goods.

The men chatting with her nodded in satisfaction as they listened to her cautious and calm tone in which she expounded on the benefits of associating with Arendelle. It was hard to believe how well-educated she was in politics.

They said goodbye with an elegant bow, allowing Elsa to relax her shoulders, heaving a sigh of relief. Whatever charm the castle's servants found in be royalty, Cassandra didn't understand it and didn’t envy it.

Another guy asked her for a piece, to which Elsa reluctantly agreed. The movements on the track seemed human: correct, but not perfect. The young man was an exceptional dancer, while the princess's steps were limited to being mechanical and somewhat stiff. It was clear that dance lessons were not a priority for the Arendellian crown.

When the music stopped, Elsa's expression of exasperation began to seep from her mask of serenity. She finally walked over to Cassandra, giving her a weary look. Interacting with people seemed to have drained every drop of energy from her body.

“Would it be rude to be gone so soon?” Elsa asked, in a tense whisper.

“They'll be able to understand if you excuse yourself with the grueling journey,” Cass replies quietly, sure they were ignored. “You are the one who traveled the most miles to attend the gala, it sounds valid for me.”

The party would not last much longer, only a few hours of forced diplomacy, a short breakfast with all the guests the next day and in the evening, they would be escorted back to the port. Short and to the point, like everything that involved Eldora. Her chance to talk to Elsa was quickly slipping out of hand.

“No one will notice our absence,” Elsa agrees.

That last one wasn't true, though. I could feel a piercing gaze on both of them. A gallant man stood in front of them, attracting dozens of discerning eyes.

He was very tall, handsome, red-haired, and with charmingly green eyes. Too well-dressed to be a minor noble, though he did not exude enough authority to be of high rank. He smiled softly, not taking his eyes off Elsa.

“Prince Hans of the South Isles,” the young man introduces himself, politely.

He bowed impeccably, sending a dangerous message with his posture. Prince. A personality like him attending the event implied only that he sought closer ties with other countries: whether it was through money, weapons or marriage.

“Princess Elsa of Arendelle,” Elsa replies with another bow.

Cassandra continued to stand behind Elsa, not making a sound despite how restless she was. That was the kind of man they would look for to pair with a queen, the kind of subjects from which it was appropriate to choose.

People continued to watch them, murmuring among themselves about the incredible attractiveness of the families they came from. Cass couldn't blame them, after all that's what it was all about, royalty only took those of their kind.

“It's a bit far from home, isn't it, Your Highness?” Hans asks, encouraging her to continue the conversation.

“I'd dare say the same about you,” Elsa replies, uncomfortable with the guy's interest. “What brought you to Eldora?”

“I suppose you know, a dance and a thirst for adventure,” he replies. “Your presence at the event has been a recurring topic of conversation. You know, your ambassador is present, but your Highness come personally. That makes me curious.”

Oh, Cass knew the real reason why Prince Hans was in Eldora, or in general, any unmarried noble.

She had never seen him in particular prowling the castle before. Every month a new suitor arrived at the explicit invitation of the Council, who regularly returned to his country disappointed without even arranging a meeting with Queen Marisol.

It would not be well regarded by the members of the Eldoran Council if their luxury guest found flirting with the princess of an allied nation. Fortunately, Elsa had also come to a similar conclusion.

“Why should I?” Elsa asked, using an insultingly polite tone.

“You know, the rumors. People tend to talk, even if most of the time it's incoherent,” he says, shrugging his shoulders with false indifference. “There is information circulating that Princess Elsa is part of the royal guard of Arendelle. It's a little hard to believe, considering you’re the heir to the throne.”

“You’re pretty well informed about the situation in Arendelle,” she admits, a little more diplomatic. “Did any of that come from the words of the twelfth prince?”

That was a low blow that Cassandra had to resist before she clapped her hands. Hans smiled again, but his eyes no longer seemed benevolent. The latter may have been a perception clouded by jealousy, because he could openly express his interest without being questioned; However, the façade of prince charming could not be authentic.

“Prince Rudi praised her beauty and elegance,” Hans confirms, his voice sounding harsh. “Yet, a fellow as coarse as my brother is not even capable of behaving in a decent manner, let alone courting a lady like you properly.”

“I consider myself capable enough to judge my own suitors, thanks for the concern,” Elsa interjects, trying to get him off. “Too many people in the line of succession tend to lead to conflict, don't you think, Your Highness?”

“I can guarantee you that the Westergaard family is the one you would like to have as allies. Arendelle is not particularly famous for its military might, which the Southern Islands do,” Hans argues. “If I had the chance to get to know each other...”

Cassandra's hands began to tingle, searching for the hilt of her sword. The young prince was not someone who would give up easily. He had stalked Elsa believing that she was easy prey, he did not consider that behind the angelic appearance she was not vulnerable or gullible.

Elsa shot Cass a warning look, indicating that she would solve the problem on her own. Reluctantly, Cassandra obeyed.

“Prince Hans, I don't think I have been clear enough,” Elsa interrupts. “I know what you're trying to do, and I appreciate the offer, but I'm not interested.”

Muffled voices stifled cries of surprise as Elsa walked out of the ballroom, followed a few steps behind by Cassandra, who for a moment was sure she had a real chance with her.

“Do you think I exaggerated a little?” Elsa asks, sitting on the edge of the bed.

“Oh, no. His Highness deserved at least a snowball in his face,” Cassandra shrugs off, standing in front of the door. “I don't know much about Southern Isles courtship etiquette, but I can deduce that going after someone when you've been invited to meet someone else is at least the attitude of a jerk.”

The thought made Elsa smile for a moment. She rubbed her temples trying to release the accumulated stress. She'd dealt with guys like Prince Hans since she was fifteen: sycophantic, lavish, well-bred men to properly woo noble ladies. They weren't exactly her type, and she'd rather give up her position as heiress than be the trophy wife of such a guy.

“We agree on a lot of things,” Elsa says, smoothing the skirt of her dress. “I didn't want to attend this event to save myself inconveniences like that,” she confesses, a little embarrassed. “It took my father a couple of weeks to convince me, putting them first that they are the kind of things a future queen should do. I hate to know that I would do anything to win her approval, even put up with suitors like...”

“Don't worry, I understand,” Cassandra replies, placing a hand on her shoulder. “I'm not the best person to talk about family matters. Still, I know family is hard. Sometimes it is difficult for them to understand why we do what we do: keep secrets, not talk about feelings, hide what overwhelms us.”

Elsa patted the space next to her on the mattress, inviting Cass to sit next to her. Somewhat hesitantly, Cassandra agreed, such gestures brought back bittersweet memories; Luckily for her, the princess didn't notice that.

“Let me guess,” Elsa asks, playfully. “Problems with your father?”

“I spent eighteen years of my life trying to meet their expectations. Maybe I let him down, but I want to believe he's not disappointed,” she replies without thinking, immediately regretting it as soon as it came out of her mouth.

“You said he was captain of Corona's royal guard,” Elsa recalls. “And I imagine he never had any intention of letting you formally join. It must have been hard for you not to feel supported.”

Watching Cassandra's shoulders tighten, the princess knew she had struck a chord and forced herself to stop. She longed for answers about Cass, longed to get to know her better and to be able to get closer to her; However, wasn't going to push her limits or force her to share things she wasn't ready to make public.

“He supported me, in his own particular way. He let me start training when I was six and gave me opportunities to test my abilities, even though he had another life planned for me,” Cass replies, very carefully, pondering every word. “My life in Corona wasn't bad, I learned how to earn my bread. I just stopped being comfortable with staying in the background.”

“Being in the first one isn't much better either,” Elsa admits, focusing her eyes on her hands. “At least not for me. My family plays their role so well, they have a kind of closeness to the people that I can't reach no matter how hard I try, it's frustrating. Everyone sees me as Princess Elsa or Captain Árnadalr.”

They were silent for a while, staring at the ground. Cassandra's boots contrasted markedly with Elsa's slender footwear. The differences between them were quite stark, yet they could ignore them and feel comfortable with each other.

“That's what you do, being a princess or being a soldier,” Cassandra explains. “You are the crown princess, there are certain standards you must meet. And believe it or not, it's nice to meet you, being just Elsa.”

“I like that about you, you see me the same way,” Elsa whispers, flashing a small smile, “but you don't seem intimidated about it.”

Cassandra smiled back at her, feeling that the conversation had taken a dangerously intimate turn. Neither of them was prepared for such a level of confidence, it was different to talk about concrete facts than to expose their hearts.

Elsa's hands quickly shifted to arranging a few unruly strands of her blonde hair, while Cass cleared her throat before standing up, looking for a polite excuse not to talk any further.

They pricked up their ears momentarily, catching the muffled sound of the music they were still playing in the ballroom. Elsa was quite surprised to see Cass's hand directed towards her, asking for a piece. She accepted it a little hesitantly, knowing that her dancing skills were barely better than mediocre.

“It's just for fun,” Cassandra reassures her, adopting the proper position for a waltz. “You don't have to pretend anything with me.”

They glided harmoniously into the cramped space of the guest room, twisting and turning at just the right moments. As Cass promised, it wasn't perfect, but the princess enjoyed it much more than she did with her peers during the event. For the first time she forgot practicality, planning, and etiquette. Elsa was completely happy.

“You make me look fancy,” Elsa says, looking Cassandra straight in the eye.

“You don't need help with that, Your Highness,” Cass jokes, pausing at the change in atmosphere. “I... Uhm, maybe we could go back now.”

The breakthrough they'd made, that little private moment they'd shared, threatened to vanish forever. Elsa held Cassandra's hand in hers, trying to keep her from moving away.

“Cass, give me a minute,” she asks, sounding as vulnerable as a little girl. “Please.”

“I hear you.”

The absurd fancy of the day when she would be queen vanished, as did that fleeting glimmer in which she imagined that they looked good as a couple; at that moment, all that remained in Elsa’s memory were the memories of the day Cassandra comforted her and tended to her wound, without being forced to do so.

“We're friends, aren't we?”

Detected a faint look of disappointment in Cass's expression, which she immediately recomposed, adopting a cold, almost impenetrable mask. Elsa didn't think those simple words could be painful.

“Of course,” Cass replies, in a neutral tone. “If that's what you want.”

“For now,” the princess clarifies, trying not to make the situation worse. “I'm afraid we'll ruin what we have if we rush. I'm not good with people and I'm terrified of the possibility of distancing ourselves.”

The relief on Cassandra's face was evident, her gaze softened before she sighed. She leaned over to her and was almost certain was going to kiss her, before an unwelcome interruption. Three short knocks on the door that made them separate.

“Princess Elsa, my apologies,” says an unknown voice with a thick Eldoran accent outside the room. “Would it be possible to talk to Lieutenant Krone for a second?”

Elsa nodded silently, authorizing Cassandra to open the door to the messenger. She immediately recognized him as one of Queen Marisol's other personal guards, he too had attended the party at Arendelle. Cass walked out, closing the door behind her.

She could hear a whispered exchange in an unfamiliar language, though did not grasp the meaning of the conversation, from the nuances in the sentences deduced that it was not good news. Cassandra returned after a few minutes, hastily grabbing some of her equipment she had left inside.

“Is something wrong?” Elsa asked, even though she knew it wasn't her business.

“My scouts have just returned to the city. There are problems,” Cass replies, quickly. “I must go out with the troops; we cannot allow a rebel group to cross the walls. Promise me you'll stay safe here.”

“I can take care of myself,” she replies.

“I have never doubted that Captain Árnadalr.”

She gave her a brief hug, leaving her to attend to her duties. Elsa knew her job was very risky but was confident she would be safe. Even so, still had a bad feeling. Something terrible was about to happen and couldn't warn anyone, it was a matter that had to be solved discreetly.

From the watchtowers of the wall that protected the royal city from the vast desert, the members of Eldora's guard laid out their weapons, waiting for any sign of hostility.

It was a convenient opportunity for the small revolutionary front, taking advantage of the fact that the best elements of the royal guard were out of their usual positions, in charge of protecting annoying foreign diplomats.

One of the few things Cassandra was grateful for from the dry climate and almost no vegetation was having miles of land visible. Any disturbance or small source of light could be detected in advance, even under the cover of night.

At that very moment, however, nothing came near the gates. She left instructions for the soldiers in her charge, before descending the ladder and going to meet the rest of the officers.

It was a priority to keep the insurgents out of the city and, if they did enter, to prevent them from reaching the castle. All this, trying to cause as little noise as possible. They could not be weak in front of their guests.

“We've increased the number of guards at each gate, and we have the army guarding the canal, the river, and patrols on the perimeter,” Omar says, positioning himself next to her, once Cassandra has hit the ground. “Have you seen the captain?”

“No,” she declares, quickening her pace to headquarters east of the city. “I haven't seen any other officers either. Maybe they'll be on the board.”

Omar frowned and nodded. He didn't seem happy with the situation either. He checked his sword one last time, before assessing his companion's stance. Circumstances had brought them closer together than they would admit. When Cassandra joined the royal guard, it was Omar's job to make her feel included, they formed such a strong team that even as they moved up the hierarchy they were still assigned together.

They regarded each other as close friends, but neither was particularly good at whimsically intruding into each other's lives.

“You seem very comfortable around Princess Elsa,” Omar ventures, as they circle the small artisan workshops.

They tried to appear normal to the civilians, didn't want their tactical advantage to be spoiled by hysterical people seeking refuge in the castle. Some old women muttered things as soon as they saw them, implying the inappropriate closeness between a married man and a single woman, despite being co-workers.

“She's not the terrible spoiled child you imagine,” Cass replies, firmly. “A bit demanding, perhaps, but nothing compared to any other class of nobles.”

“I thought you were arendellian, but it wouldn't make sense,” says, almost tragically. “In Arendelle you would have easily built your military career. It's just that... You were fine, you could pass by a local.”

Deep down, Cassandra knew it was a very biased opinion. Corona and Arendelle were more like each other than to Eldora; However, they remained radically different in several important respects. The only reason it came to blend so well was that the population was not homogeneous and did not possess a strongly distinctive feature.

“You know I don't like to talk about it,” Cass protests. “Now I'm in Eldora, who cares where I was born?”

“The insurgents care,” Omar replies, noticeably worried. “They don't like foreigners and you're aware that you're a worthy target. I've heard rumors that they spare the lives of those who are from the region, but you're not, right?”

No, by no means would Cassandra fit the description of the average woman from neighboring kingdoms, her height was the first clue, and perhaps the only one that mattered, every feature on her face was a strong indicator of her ancestry in a country where far from its ports it was less common for travelers or merchants to venture.

“No,” she sighs, ignoring the feeling of oppression that was growing in her chest. “That doesn't matter, they won't be able to get in less...”

Her voice was interrupted by the sound of smashing glass, followed by a trail of smoke. From the headquarters came three dazed figures whom they recognized as members of the royal guard.

They ran to them, trying to check that they were okay. Cassandra looked up and caught a shadow on the roof that leapt between the rooftops before disappearing into the darkness, perhaps trying to break out of the walls.

Other guards approached after hearing the commotion, while Omar barked orders to look for the person responsible for the attack. All the assets went to the east gate, which was supposed to be one of the most closely guarded in the entire city.

Her companion took one last look at Cassandra, silently asking if she could stay and find out what happened, reluctantly, Cass nodded. Omar went after his subordinates, determined not to let the incident go unpunished.

The young guards had heavy wounds and were terribly pale, yet they kept an expression of satisfaction on their faces, that pride which is won only by the duty accomplished.

“Lieutenant Krone,” one of them wheezed, recognizing Cass. “The General... General Talha is inside.”

Fortunately, the medical team arrived a few seconds later. Cassandra left them in the care of the wounded, before entering the building.

The fog made it difficult for her to see and stumbled several times over lifeless bodies, most of them belonging to the rebel group, however, there were also a few who corresponded to mid-ranking officers and non-commissioned officers: three lieutenants, five sergeants... those with whom she was going to meet.

She checked each of them, hoping to find a sign of hope, but there was no pulse in their necks or shallow breaths; Instead, found deep wounds to vital organs, slit throats, decapitated heads, and huge pools of viscous blood soiling the soles of her boots.

A subdued cough caused her to turn all attention to the back of the room. Sitting against a corner, General Talha tried to stay awake, protecting his belly with both arms. Cass strode forward, guided by the dim moonlight that filtered through the windows.

“I've never been so glad that one of my subordinates was late, Lieutenant Krone,” the General smiles, seeing her. “As you can see, we took care of almost all of them. The boys are fine, right?”

“I hope they can be saved,” Cassandra says, reluctant to lie to her officer. “How...?”

“It wasn't an attempt on the Queen,” Talha reveals. “They came specifically after us... It's not spontaneous revolts, it's a coup d'état, Cassandra.”

A fit of violent coughing ensued upon him, each jolt threatening to squeeze every drop of strength out of him. Cassandra didn't dare to retort or ask silly questions. She knelt beside him, not caring that her uniform would get dirty with the mixture of blood and dust on the ground, listened obediently as General Talha expected to do.

“Just as we thought, Desta led it, and several members of the royal guard followed,” the dying man adds, breathing heavily. “Her Majesty is aware, dying here will confirm it. You can't trust anyone with this information, Krone. The army will respond once the news is made public, we gathered enough evidence... They're in the second drawer of my desk.”

With a trembling movement, the General deposited an old key into Cassandra's hands. The lieutenant's eyes stung, as tears pooled. She wished she could do something to save him, even though her rational mind painfully reminded her that there was nothing but to be with him to the end.

“You must give them to Queen Marisol,” he orders, without hesitation. “If the Council is cornered, they will abandon Desta to his fate; They would rather maintain their privileged positions than dare to conquer the throne. In the worst-case scenario, they will negotiate a truce to cease the attacks.”

Cass nodded, giving Talha a firm grip on the shoulder. She could see the cruelty of war from another perspective and was terrified to realize that two years ago had done the same thing. Cass didn't remember killing anyone, though her memories of that time were a little blurry now, they tended to mingle with nightmares, and she could no longer clearly distinguish facts from hallucinations.

“Here you go, there's a letter signed and sealed with your discharge,” he adds, in a softer tone, pulling an envelope from the pocket of his coat, leaving his bloodied fingers imprinted. “I know you didn't ask for it, but there's no need for you to risk your life for this. You have a lot to grow and a lot to offer, you will waste your time here.”

“What if I refuse to comply with that order?” Cassandra asks, defiantly.

Talha smiled as if she had anticipated the answer, for a second her eyes lit up just like that time in the training camp where she discovered Cass's potential and decided to put her under his protection. He was her mentor and despite the short time they had known each other, he learned to read her well.

“You can break it and stay in the battle. My nephew is aware, he's the one you'll have to answer to,” he sighs, a little amused. “If you decide to leave, you will leave with honors, you will be able to join another army with ease. I know people in Arendelle who would be happy to help you.”

“Why do you insist so much on me going to Arendelle?” The lieutenant asks, in a tone that sounded almost reproachful.

“There's no point in hiding it anymore, huh?” Maybe I want you to fulfill my frustrated dream,” he laughs, tired. “My father came from Vesterland, good neighbors to Arendelle, he was a merchant... He fell in love with an admiral's daughter, they got married... They put down roots here.”

A long, nostalgic sigh, accompanied by gestures of pain. Facing death in battle no longer seemed as romantic as adventure novels portrayed it. It was simply cruel, destructive, lonely, and empty.

“I was discriminated against for not being a pure eldoran, rejected more times than you can imagine,” Talha gasps. “I built a name despite the circumstances. You and I aren't that different, Cassandra. I know Krone is not your name.”

She gritted her teeth as realized what it meant. General Talha knew everything. He knew who she was, where she came from, and what she had done; For some reason he couldn't fathom, he chose to keep her secret. What would have made her worthy of that kind of trust?

“Don't worry, Eldora doesn't really care what happens to Corona. It's hard to take them seriously when they made a dangerous criminal prince consort,” he growls, squeezing his abdomen tighter. “We are not even remotely close to diplomacy, let alone an alliance. Agh!” He exclaimed, trying to keep his composure. “The wretch who did this wanted I suffer as much as possible.”

She had to admire the General's mental fortitude so as not to collapse in pain and to cling to his last moments lucidly. Cassandra had limited medical knowledge, but she knew he was holding his guts firmly, stabilizing her vital signs somewhat. Besides, if he were to let them go, the image would not be pretty.

“I esteem you quite well,” Talha adds, her eyes fading. “Leaving won't be an act of cowardice, Cassandra, it's a basic survival instinct. Even if you avoid conflict, there will be no way Desta or her entourage will allow you to continue advancing the guard. There's greatness in you, I'll be proud of what you accomplish, even if it's under another country.”

With those last words, the grip around himself lost strength. Cassandra's tears finally flowed and the key in her hand weighed with enormous commitment. Leaving was sensible and simple, the best option without a doubt. But her stubborn nature refused to choose the simple option.

If she was to leave, had to make one last attack, no matter if it put her life at risk.

Chapter Text

To an untrained eye, the deployment of Eldora's armed forces might seem routine, irrelevant, and even arrogant (boasting about military might was a favorite of certain especially hostile nations). To the princess of Arendelle, it was more than obvious that they were looking for something or someone.

She had spent hours watching the movements of the royal guard since Cassandra left. That feeling of bad omen continued to weigh on her chest, some furniture began to frost before Elsa forced herself to calm down. It was not the time or place to lose her mind.

After a while, they apprehended two people and transferred them to some place that Elsa could not locate. Realizing that she would get nothing by waiting for Cassandra, decided to seek out the ambassador and Lieutenant Syversen.

The atmosphere at the party still sounded carefree. She could easily imagine the guests dancing, drinking, eating, and talking, oblivious to the chaos that was raging under their noses. Taking a deep breath, Elsa tried to mask her worries to surround herself with those close to her.

Halfway up the stairs, met Cassandra who without uttering a single word seemed to beg her to appear normal. Her stormy eyes were completely lost. Elsa held her hand gently before leading it back to her room.

"How can I help you?" Elsa asks in a whisper once they closed the door.

"I don't know," Cassandra admits, slowly advancing to the nearest bed.

Her always accurate movements seemed hesitant, the watchful gaze that characterized her had lost severity and her behavior ceased to be retouched, losing those impeccable manners that distinguished her from the rest of the commoners.

 Elsa stood still, unsure of what to do, instinctively reaching for the hilt of her sword. At that moment, realized that she didn't have it with her. She approached worriedly, hugging her rigidly. Cassandra Krone, who seemed unable to be disturbed, collapsed in her arms.

There were no cries or sobs, only her body losing strength against Elsa's. Princess's trembling hands stroked her hair, not daring to utter a single word. She felt utterly useless: she could not give her any form of comfort.

After what could have been minutes or hours, she let go. They sat together, still saying nothing, admiring the design of the tiles on the floor. She carefully observed every detail in it, before realizing that the uniform Cass wore was different from the dress version she had worn since they met in the port, the materials strangely familiar to her. Elsa didn't take long for conclude that it was the one made for her in Arendelle.

"I'm sorry, princess," she said suddenly. "I neglected my assignment with you, and I know you must be upset."

"I'm not your job, Cassandra," Elsa replies. "My presence here is not a priority against whatever you did outside."

"I'm tired of violence," she sighs. "I can't go on living this way."

The princess pretended not to hear that. She continued to search for details in the intricate patterns of the floor.

"Take me with you," Cassandra asks, almost as a plea. "You said that the offer was still valid, that you could integrate me into the Arendellian guard..."

"Do you want to come with me or are you just looking to get out of Eldora?" She asks in a colder way than intended.

"I want to go. "

Elsa didn't know what hurt more, the way Cass words were completely emotionless or the disappointment that she didn't choose her.

The Princess nodded calmly, trying not to make it personal.

"Tell me the truth, Lieutenant Krone, what happened?" Elsa insists, trying not to sound vulnerable.

"A last-minute order, something I can't tell you," Cassandra replies in a dangerously formal tone. “I can't reveal state secrets...”

"But you want to swear allegiance to Arendelle," the princess says. “Do not make me choose between you or my kingdom. “

"I don't want to involve you, it's my crusade, not yours," Cass says. "Simply informing you of a conspiracy would leave you vulnerable. I know you'll do the right thing, the well-being of Arendelle alliances is above your personal desires. "

Of course, Cassandra was right, however, Elsa could not avoid being pressed by a heaviness in her heart that tried to convince her to leave everything behind, only to return the favor to Cass did her by not treating her as an aberration of nature.

An intense debate began to take place in Elsa's head, she knew exactly what she had to do and that solution did not please her. She didn't want to turn her back on Cassandra, especially not when Cass had protected her most valuable secret. And on the other hand, Elsa knew that no matter how secrecy she handled, any action she took would always be on behalf of Arendelle.

"I'll take you with me, but at least give me an overview of the facts," Elsa agrees. "I must know how and from whom to protect yourself."

Remembered the uneasiness that had assailed her all night, the one that drove her to want to surround herself with other people for her own safety. Perhaps her hunch was not so far from reality.

"There's military information that Queen Marisol must receive," Cass explains in a tense whisper. "It could prevent a civil war or unleash the biggest political persecution in a decade."

"I can't get involved in their internal problems," She murmurs. "However, I will request an audience with the queen so that you can deliver what you require. Being with me would raise less suspicion, don't you think?"

"I'll work on it."

The frigid mountain wind shifted direction as ice collectors worked over the frozen lake. The huge crystalline blocks threatened to break free from their grip in the face of powerful gusts from the west.

"It's strange," says Egil, one of the leaders of the group. "We must reinforce the knots; we cannot lose any of the cargo."

"I think you're exaggerating a little," Kristoff declares, arranging his wares on the old sleigh he'd just purchased. "It's normal at this time of year."

The other collectors heeded Egil's suggestion, increasing the number of ropes that held their precious cargo. Business had declined as never before, accelerated by the trade agreement between Eldora and Arendelle, who bought a lot of other raw materials and at twice the value of the local market, which contributed to the people dedicated to collecting ice being attracted by these job offers.

In a few months, the number of workers in that and other lakes in the area decreased; Several gatherers had desperately tried to recruit the villagers living in the vicinity. It was the worst moment that the guild had experienced since they could remember.

The oldest families dedicated to the trade did not even bother to worry about the proposed alternatives, since there was less supply in the market they could raise their prices as much as they wanted, to the point of completely ignoring the society of inventors of the kingdom, who assured that the process of harvesting ice would soon be automated and supposedly began to obtain good results.

However, for the unfortunate Kristoff Bjorgman, history treated him differently. He had been dedicated to ice since he was eight years old, the age at which escaped from the orphanage. He had no influential friends among the tenants of the capital, nor was a supplier to any lord of the Council; So, while his companions sold the cargo at inflated prices, Kristoff had to settle for supplying the villages on the periphery at a fair value that would allow its acquisition.

He had secured a temporary arrangement with castle employees to supply them with ice during the summer, though the deal fell apart after someone of high rank gave Egil preference in the city in exchange for minimizing the cost to the royal family. And as expected, the Arendellian crown never lost.

"I'm not going to put my income at risk, Kristoff," Egil reminds, climbing in front of his sled. "You may not know it, but I have very important and demanding buyers."

"There's no point in explaining to him, Egil. That fool wouldn't be able to spot a good buyer, even if has one in front of him," laughs one of their colleagues.

"I bet he wouldn’t recognize Princess Elsa herself, not even inside the castle," seconded another.

They left, along with the rest of their followers, towards the city. The trail of snow kicked up in their wake was the signal that triggered Kristoff's anger. Looked at his rickety old sledge, with a load barely close to average. He was a lonely man who didn't have a single human friend, took care of himself and although was passionate about his work, knew that it was not sustainable in the long term.

The reindeer, Sven, brought his nose to Kristoff and gently pushed in an attempt to cheer him up. It was adorable how Sven protected him during that time he spent away from his family.

"Don't be discouraged, buddy," Kristoff says, using a fake voice to pretend to be the reindeer. "Everything will get better when we renew our equipment and buy that new sled."

"There's still a lot of money to get," Kristoff replies, in his normal voice. "Even if we save half of the income for the entire summer, we will only get second-hand things."

Sven protested, growling and scolding him with his expressive eyes.

"Don't be so pessimistic," he cheers up, in Sven's tone. "We'll make repairs during the winter, load up on supplies, go fishing! Before the start of spring, we will have the sharpest saws and the fastest sled!"

He smiled at the idea, even knowing that they could spend two whole years saving and it would still be insufficient to meet their goals. Still, the thought of it gave him encouragement to keep trying.

Then, he remembered for a moment the incident had at Arendelle Castle, when he collided with the army officers. People always complained that it was not obligatory for ice collectors to do military service, however, they never mentioned that it was prohibited.

A soldier's salary was double what he currently earned, quadruple if entered the royal guard, and it was only mandatory to remain there for two years after enlisting. If he took care of his finances, perhaps could buy a little house in some village and stop sleeping in other people's stables.

He evaluated his options, given that at the beginning of winter would practically be ruined for three months, in addition, the dates for the recruitment of new assets in the Arendellian army were approaching.

He turned to Sven, the idea plotting in his head. He didn't want to abandon his friend but perhaps would do well to spend some time in the woods with his adoptive family, visit him on the days off, and bring him a whole sack of carrots. It must have been a good plan, right?

The next morning, Anna woke up very early to check the vulnerable area again, brought her hand close to that square that she had limited to a space barely a little larger than a cup, and as before, it broke after some insistence.

It was like trying to rip through the curtains of her room, an invisible cloak surrounded her as a sign of recognition, but she refused to let her pass. Could it be the effect of having Arendellian and Northuldra blood running through her veins? If Elsa tried it with her, would it open completely?

"Lieutenant Árnadalr?" Dagmar asks a few steps behind her.

Anna pulled her hand back to her chest, pleading that Dagmar hadn't witnessed the abnormality. She squared her shoulders before turning her subordinate, hoping that fake smile wouldn't give her away.

"Everything in order?" Dagmar insists, tilting her head.

"Of course, it doesn't seem too unreal to you," Anna squeals. "I was taught so many things as a child, but solid fog was definitely not one of them. Why didn't they bring Sorenson to study its special characteristics? "

"Perhaps because he's too stubborn to leave his observatory," Dagmar bets in a mocking tone.

The curious friend of Queen Iduna and summer tutor of the princesses’ childhood had more of a reputation as a resentful mad scientist than as a sage or genius. Who cared about his contributions to the kingdom if his public appearances were usually lectures in the library where he insulted or treated everyone as ignorant?

However, Anna had to agree with Dagmar in that assumption. Sorenson would probably have humiliated the soldiers and gone mad trying to explain what physicochemical laws governed that impenetrable fog.

"Have you ever wondered what's inside?" Anna asks, trying to change the subject.

"Perhaps an army of evil Northuldran sorcerers waiting to curse Arendelle, or a group of victorious Arendellian soldiers who slain all those heretics," Dagmar ventures, looking down on nothingness. "Whatever it is, it is better for it to stay inside, for the welfare of the kingdom."

"For the welfare of the kingdom," Anna repeated to herself, imagining those people her mother told her about the night before she left.

What if her mother was too young and naive to know the intentions of their leaders? Or perhaps it was her father who did not know the true purpose of the Arendellian army. Would it be possible...?

She shook her head in an attempt not to fall into ramblings. Maybe her grandfather and father had a bad family dynamic, but people adored him. Anna refused to believe that the coat of arms of the royal house had been tempered in innocent blood.

Arendelle had risen for trade, shipping, and hard work, not genocide; It was a nation with deep-rooted values and principles. Everything that represented the flag, her parents, her sister... could not have been built on a lie.

Before anything else, she was an Arendellian princess.

And as such, it was her duty to look after the interests of her kingdom.

Arendelle above everything, Arendelle above everyone.

Dagmar was right, it was better that the threat of that secret being released remained in a remote possibility

Queen Marisol's eyes shifted from Elsa to Cassandra and back to the princess, as she skimmed over each of the documents in the package the guard had given her.

Without the bustle of guests, Eldora Castle felt more sweltering than ever. Most left in a caravan before sunset, desperate to return to the less hostile climes of their homelands.

On the other hand, and despite the ambassador's protests, Elsa decided to stay for a private meeting with Queen Marisol, to which she immediately agreed, perhaps aware that most of the officer corps were "missing". From the beginning everything was gloomy and unspoken. The queen maintained an empty expression, turning the leaves at an eerie speed.

There was no one else in that small office, almost turning all those comforts into a terrible method of torture. Elsa tried to focus on the straightness of her own posture and hold her hands firmly. If she allowed herself to be ruled by nerves, that whole section of the castle would be covered with snow and frost.

"It's enough to summon an extraordinary audience," the monarch sighs after a while, rubbing her face with her hands. "If I remove some of those involved from the Council and exile the military who actively participated, it will discourage the rest from pursuing whatever they have in mind. However, Talha's death makes Desta the favorite to take the job."

"You won't have to worry about that," Cassandra replies coldly.

The queen frowned without understanding what she meant, but Elsa sensed it without any problem, was that what her lost attitude the night before was about? At any moment Eldoran royal guards could arrive to arrest her for murder, and from the gleam in Krone's eyes, she had anticipated that too.

"I don't know what you did," replies Queen Marisol. "And I hope for your sake that they take a long time to discover it. There is nothing I can do to acquit you of a court-martial, except authorize your immediate discharge."

"I know that," Cassandra says, clenching her fists. "I'd rather go away knowing that the captain can't hurt you, Your Majesty."

A condescending smile crept across the monarch's face, before addressing Elsa with less benevolence than on her visit a few months earlier. The princess did not know if the anger was directed at those who rebelled or at her.

"Tell me something, Princess Elsa," Queen Marisol demands, looking at her suspiciously. "Why? Why is it that of all the soldiers of all the kingdoms you could choose, chooses one of the few to whom I would entrust my life?"

"I know what you suspect, I understand that your Council's insistence on visiting my lands just at a time of crisis in your kingdom gives rise to misunderstandings. After everything you seen, it's natural that my intentions don't seem good," Elsa explains. "I have no interest in taking advantage of this moment of vulnerability in Eldora."

Her blue eyes remained fixed on those of the young queen. At that moment, Elsa did not feel like the delicate daughter of King Agnarr, but like what she really was: crown princess of Arendelle.

"Do you want supplies of armaments?" We can provide them; do you want a political ally to ignore the legitimacy of the usurpers if this escalates? I'll do my best to align Arendelle with your government," she resumes vehemently, before adding in a softer tone. "Krone doesn't want to betray you and doesn't want to leave, but I know she's in danger and I won't allow my friend to lose her life to one of your subordinates."

"I hate the idea of having to entrust you with the fate of my people," Marisol snorts, looking away. "I don't need to add an international crisis to what I already have. Go back to your countries as soon as possible, do what you must. I will find a way to get in touch if necessary. Believe me Your Highness, I appreciate you being able to bring me this information with Lieutenant Krone, now it is your duty to protect her."

Elsa nodded, bowing.

"I will pray sincerely for Eldora's well-being," Elsa promises.

"And I will do it so that they arrive safely at their destination," says Marisol.

The last night Cassandra spent in Eldora Castle, she couldn't sleep more than two hours, waiting for a patrol of the royal guard to burst into Elsa's guest chamber at any moment. So, instead of sleeping, she discreetly took her little luggage to the stable where she secured it to Fidella's mount, camouflaged among the pile of things that the Arendellian delegation carried with them.

Elsa promised her a place on Arendelle’s ship, assuring that was not obliged to go to Arendelle and could get off at any port she wanted, but to carry out the second part of her plan, it was indispensable to remain in the armed forces somewhere and Arendelle was the most appropriate.

The group left before dawn, only led by Cass under the excuse that she did not want to risk dispersing the active elements in front of another possible attack, which Alvan (who assumed the position of captain on an interim basis) conceded. In another scenario, it would have hurt her to have someone who didn't even apply for the position promoted, instead of her who was next on the waiting list, but since she wasn't even part of the guard anymore, she ended up accepting it.

Instead of following the safe route to the port that the rest of the guests did, she opted for the fastest route that was entrusted to the armed forces whenever there was a threat, under the excuse of not wanting to delay them any longer, something that the ambassador initially appreciated and later regretted.

Syversen had been superficially notified of her renunciation of Eldora and her integration with the group towards Arendelle, to which he seemed indifferent, while directing occasional glances between the two girls who remained at the head of the group.

They took a short rest in a small coastal town during the hours of greatest sunlight and resumed the road at high speed, arriving at dawn at the port checkpoint where they delivered the Eldoran royal horses to the soldiers of that area.

An Arendellian admiral was waiting for them at the dock and expedited the boarding of the group, assuring that they could fulfill the itinerary by reducing port stopovers. They set sail with the first light of dawn, causing Cass to leave behind two years of her life, much the same way she did with Corona: without a farewell.

Chapter Text

The mood in the kingdom of Corona used to be festive and joyful whenever they planned an event. There was nothing that made Princess Rapunzel prouder than to boast of it against the constant resentment of Equis, or the arrogance of Pittsford.

However, the royal court was divided in recent months, while they prepared a winter art festival with the intention of financing the new Academy of Fine Arts in Corona.

They were failing to pretend that everything was still fine.

Every day a new problem was exposed: whether it was the schedule, the costs of the committee's proposals, or the volatile list of foreign guests. In King Frederick's desperate attempt to improve external relations and keep the town's morale high, it seemed that they were on the verge of becoming a new battlefield within the castle itself.

Rapunzel leaned over the desk, watching her team slowly fall apart. Tired of how exhausting it was to try not to exceed their limited budget and resume the habit of innovating in each festivity. She wondered if Corona would ever regain the same solvency of the past to maintain a great celebration every month.

"Your Highness, what you're proposing is simply…" Nigel says, looking for a prudent word for the situation.

"Unnecessary?" Eugene adds.

"No," the adviser declines, pacing back and forth in the room.

"Reckless?" He suggests, admiring his face against the samples of shiny crockery was supposed to choose.

"No, captain".

"Tangled?" Varian interjects, appearing in the boardroom. "We talked about my suggestion to open a railway rout, right?"

Kiera threw the papers from her desk on the floor, before being reprimanded with her gaze by Catherine, who had taken several minutes to arrange them in piles according to the degree of urgency of each matter. Lance seemed focused on giving random brushstrokes on a canvas, oblivious to the discomfort of the rest.

"Rapunzel wants to name the kingdom of Eldora as guests of honor for the festival," Eugene explains, sinking into his chair. "Who, by the way, have not even responded to the first invitation we sent".

"Eldora? The desert kingdom across the sea?" asks the alchemist confused. "Why would we want to strengthen ties with Eldora? There is nothing they can offer us that we do not have with the Seven Kingdoms alliance".

"That's what I've tried to explain," Nigel declares, running his hands over his face in exasperation. "Princess, Eldora is one of our main competitors in maritime trade, they wouldn't be interested either. It doesn't benefit anyone".

"It's not for financial gain," Rapunzel protests, standing up. "It is to get new allies. Corona has distanced itself from the outside world to protect the interests of the Seven Kingdoms, who over the last year have behaved more like enemies than partners, remember the disastrous episode with Arendelle?"

"Thank heaven that they did not interpret it as a declaration of war. It could have escalated for the worse," Nigel adds, fanning himself.

"Princess Elsa must have expected a war," Eugene protests, thinking aloud. "I don't like that woman, she's as uptight as Cassandra".

Varian's eyes lit up briefly at the sound of his friend's name, before darkening as he remembered that she was still officially missing.

Eugene and Rapunzel had agreed not to mention to anyone in Corona that they found Cass in Arendelle; first, because not everyone in the kingdom was in favor of the sentence pronounced by the king, and second, because of the hostility of their brief interaction. Her resounding attempts to relate to Eldora were a fleeting hope of seeing her again.

"Couldn't it be resolved with a vote? Eldora doesn't seem to have any intention of attending," Catalina suggests, desisting from rearranging the stationery. "The same with the other countries that we have not completely ruled out: we sent the invitation, and they could decline it".

The adults blinked in surprise at the girl's simple, brilliant, and diplomatic proposal, before nodding to each other. They did not risk much against the great plausible benefits.

"I can accept that," Eugene agrees.

Nigel nodded, turning to Rapunzel who agreed with a gesture encouraging the adviser to unroll the list of delegations they had suggested, but did not consider prudent or appropriate.

"Votes in favor of Arendelle?" Nigel asked.

The weather did not give a truce during those days in the field, the wind whipped its fury against the Arendellian contingent, which was striving to fulfill the assigned mission in the established period.

Each sector was meticulously requisitioned, trying to cover as much field as possible, reaching important geographical features for which it was not worth risking their life. The scouting teams handed Anna their notes at the end of assignments, as well as a verbal confirmation that was essentially repetitive.

"What's your report, soldier?" Anna asks the last of the girls.

"No anomalies, lieutenant," the young woman replies, handing over the details on paper.

"Thank you," Anna sighs, rubbing the bridge of her nose. "You can start picking up camp. We'll leave in two hours".

The soldiers immediately complied, excited by the idea of seeing their families again and sleeping in warm, comfortable rooms.

The princess was a little worried about her initial experience in the sector she was assigned, had not informed anyone for fear of their reactions, and even less so when that vulnerability was repeated several times without there being a pattern in this regard.

It was a well-defined square, close to heart level, which at times seemed to become less resistant and allowed the passage of her hand without any opposition, but not that of other objects.

Anna had a sense of discomfort about it, she believed that there was a motive behind these alterations, as if the mist was reacting to something that was recently being affected.

With magic involved in its presence, her theories around it were only reinforced every time she tested it, the same questions that had been assailing for days came back to her mind: was it possible for the mist accept her because of some kind of blood link? If she spilled Arendellian blood and Northuldra mixed, could they dissipate it?

"I know I shouldn't ask or break the chain of command, though I think it's necessary," Dagmar says, moving closer to her. "You have behaved in a strange way Anna, what is it that worries you?"

"My sister is still traveling, and we don't hear from her," she lies quickly, avoiding her gaze. "It's the first time Elsa's gone so far... took Syversen, they throw all these responsibilities at me. It's overwhelming".

Dagmar smiled understandingly, putting her arm around Anna’s shoulders before offering a cup of hot chocolate. Anna smiled back, bringing the comforting drink to her lips. Everything was better with chocolate, except perhaps for the dangerous secrets that swirled over the royal family.

Every mile of ocean the ship traveled, felt like a silent punishment. The crew fulfilled their duties interacting little or not at all with the rest of the passengers, while the Ambassador continued to be locked in his cabin claiming that he was indisposed.

Syversen was constantly roaming the ship, on security patrols that were more like a caged animal. On the other hand, Elsa had given her space, and they only chatted about superficial things during meals or in the stable, leaving Cass plenty of time alone to think about her next moves.

"I don't know when it all fell apart," Cass says to Owl, stroking his plumage. "I knew Eldora wouldn't be forever, but it was starting to feel permanent. Now, I don't have the promotion, I lost my life there and Elsa... Princess Elsa," she corrected herself immediately. "With her, everything is confusing as we spend more time together".

The bird tilted its head, watching her with his huge, cunning eyes, making her feel ridiculous for confessing her worries. It was obvious that nothing would happen to the crown princess, she was deceiving herself by dreaming of a future beyond serving her kingdom.

A quick knock on the cabin door brought out of her thoughts. She hurriedly opened, trying not to let her heart be startled at the sight of Elsa, who even stripped of fine clothes continued to look regal and imposing.

"We'll dock at Equis in a few minutes, it's the last stop we'll make before go straight to Arendelle," Elsa says, leaning against the doorframe. "I don't want you to feel obligated to return the favor, it was just a token of gratitude for everything we've been through. I'll understand if you'd rather take another path, it's your last chance to do so."

Equis. Arriving on the continent in the closest allied kingdom to Corona, that seemed thoughtful and boldly timely. From anyone else, the offer would sound like an attempt to get rid of her; from Elsa, was just a clumsy considerate gesture.

"Princess Elsa," Cassandra interjects. "The offer to accompany you to Arendelle is generous and I have accepted it, but I am not going for you."

"So quickly we got back to the formalities," she sighs disappointedly. "Then...?"

Cass grimaced for the appropriate words. She couldn't lie to Elsa; could read the insincerity easily. Invited her in with a gesture, taking a seat together on the small, uncomfortable bed. She knew it was just as difficult for Elsa to deliberate what they would do once they arrived in Arendelle.

"I made a promise to someone I care about, and want to keep it," Cass explains. "But most of all, I want to keep the promise I made to me: to be loyal to myself. Things have changed now, and I hope you understand that we..."

"You're my friend, Cassandra," Elsa denies, holding one of her hands. "My colleague, I don't care about hierarchy. I'm tired of people who cover up my mistakes and ignore my problems. I appreciate you and would like to at least keep your friendship, if you want it too."

It was painful to observe those beautiful and demanding blue eyes, she could not refuse if Elsa asked for it that way. Even if in the long run it hurt to be just friends, at that moment she couldn't think of anything crueler than to walk away from her.

"Promise me you won't play the 'someday I'll be your queen' card," Cass requests, holding back tears that threatened to flow.

"Only if you allow me to use the 'I'm your commanding officer,'" Elsa proposes.

"I can tolerate that," she admits with a smile, shaking her hands nervously.

The princess put an arm around her shoulders, wrapping her in an embrace that felt intimate in a special way, leaning their heads against each other, letting the worries dissipate. Somehow, she knew that even with the uncanny similarities between Elsa and Rapunzel's position, being around the Arendellian promised to be a completely different story, less painful and more certain.

"I'm so sorry I can't do more for you, Cass," Elsa whispers without turning to her. "But whatever you have in mind, consider me an ally, I will do everything in my power to help you."

"I know, I trust you."

They entered the city at dawn, after a two-day journey, in which they stopped in different towns as part of a type of twisted publicity with which the Council promoted the military service.

Anna detested the warlike tendency that ran through the different political factions of the kingdom, but she could not go against the direct orders given by the General. Even in her role as princess she was also not allowed to publicly show dislike for the decisions that were the responsibility of the Council. It was part of her duty to strengthen the image of unity between the different powers of the nation.

Unlike the great celebration with which they welcomed Elsa and her team after their little summer adventure, the entrance of Anna's section was much more discreet: people were in charge of opening their businesses, children ran to school, some ships docked while others left and few people seemed to notice the royal guards who arrived from the strange expedition that was entrusted to them every six months.

They went in an orderly manner to the castle to deliver the report of the situation and return to their stipulated activities, where their reception was perceived a little more tense. Anna was aware that even with the paranoia and secrecy of the mission, it was impossible for everything to be carried out with complete discretion. While employees were unaware of the assignment specifications, they could get a general idea with the crumbs of data that came their way each year. They seemed expectant of chaos.

"Lieutenant Árnadalr," one of the sergeants designated to send recruit notices to the army in the capital calls her, forcing Kjekk to stop abruptly. "We have a situation that threatens to become a problem."

"Is it urgent?" She asks more harshly than intended. "I must get this over with before I get to anything else."

"Lieutenant, we received a strange report from Harmon, one of the artisan villages in the mountains," the sergeant explains in an uneasy tone. "The people of recruiting age have rejected the indications and fled in groups to the forest; we have been looking for them for days without result."

Anna's initially indifferent temper changed, not knowing whether to applaud their initiative or worry about their integrity. She knew that the report should have initially reached the General or some officer of higher rank than hers, if they sent notice to her, it is because they decided to delegate it, but she didn’t know the reason why they sent a subordinate to notify.

"I'll take care of it as soon as I'm done with my assignment. That's all, you can retreat," she orders, causing the horse to resume its advance.

Elsa's invitation to go out to the night market in Equis caught her a little off guard. Considering that the ship was forced to remain in port after a dense fog bank settled ashore, she believed that perhaps the crew would urge them to stay on the ship or perhaps appeal to King Trevor's kindness and take shelter in the castle as guests.

So, the fact that the Princess of Arendelle convinced her to go shopping incognito, with Syversen looking after them at an indiscreet distance, seemed surreal.

They walked the cobblestone streets of that hostile kingdom with anyone who seemed to compete with it, evading the discerning gaze of the merchants who tried to swindle them on a couple of occasions when they noticed the princess's foreign accent. Most of her purchases were souvenirs and sweets, as well as some beautiful books whose author he did not recognize.

In any case, she could not deny that she enjoyed every second of that moment of rebellion that was given to her, a fleeting moment in which both felt freed from self-imposed ties and were able to be sincere before boarding the boat again.

"Do you like any kind of candy in particular?" Elsa asks, checking the contents of her bag.

"I'm not as big a fan of chocolate as you are, I'm a little more in favor of caramel," Cass replies with a small smile. "It reminds me of my childhood."

At that moment, sitting on the bed in her cabin, Elsa looked younger than she really was, although if Cass was honest with herself, she did not know the exact age of the Arendellian. In fact, was ignorant of many truly important facts about her.

"Formalities again?" Elsa reproaches. "If it is easier for you to call me with a title in public I will accept it, but I refuse to do it in private."

"All right, Elsa," Cass agrees, throwing up her hands in surrender. "What would you choose to be if you weren't a princess?"

"I've never stopped to think about it exactly," Elsa replies, after pondering her answer. "I suppose if I wasn't a princess, but I was still the daughter of Agnarr and Iduna, I would have done whatever the family was doing... to be an inventor as Mom intended or a writer like Dad, perhaps an architect. I think that when you are born with a predestined path that you cannot get away from, there is no opportunity to dream of a maybe."

Despite the harshness of the statement, Cassandra did not perceive a hint of regret or sadness, but rather resignation, making her believe that Arendelle was not as benevolent and pleasant as he appeared.

"What would you do? If you weren't a soldier, I mean" Elsa encourages her to speak.

"I don't know either, I've gotten used to this life, working or alert all the time. It's hard for me to relax," Cass sighs, adding quietly, "I think I would have traveled the world somehow. Who knows? maybe one of those trips would end in Arendelle, explore the port, get to know the kingdom and meet a writer, or inventor, or architect... maybe she would invite me to settle there."

Elsa smiled sweetly, excited by Cass's interest, leaning toward her as she had long wanted to. A sweet kiss that caused a strange sensation that swept her to the tips of her feet, followed by another longer and the softness of a hug that enveloped her all night. She was carried away by emotion, knowing that once they docked in her kingdom, the relationship between them would inevitably change.

Anna awoke more distressed than usual, repeatedly looking at the large window in her room that gave a privileged view of the castle's main garden, where the guards were still stationed in their usual positions.

Once the report had been delivered to General Solberg and the audience with the king and queen was over, she devoted all her energy to finding the lost people for half a week, before being stopped by Lord Peterssen who told her that the harvest festival would be held the next day and, in Elsa's absence, it was her duty to direct the event.

In such a way that all the rescue brigades ceased activities, to be replaced with wanted notices for treason to the kingdom that began to generate discontent among the commoners and were part of the news headlines.

"I thought," Gerda says, adjusting her hairstyle to begin a day full of diplomatic activities. "That perhaps you should start getting less involved in army assignments and focus those energies on your royal duties."

She moved a copy of The Village Crown (the city’s most famous newspaper) out of Anna's boudoir, in which the editor-in-chief Wael, was again lashing out at the royal family for decisions that really belonged to the Arendellian Council.

"Royal duties?" Anna asks with a little irony. "You mean meeting suitors and performing at events that Elsa can't attend, I want to feel useful, and I know I can make a difference if they let me."

"Not even your sister can antagonize the Council, Your Highness," Gerda continues. "These are measures that they have adopted for reasons that may or may not seem justified, but they are still important for Arendelle's well-being."

The princess's grimace did not go unnoticed by the maid, who smiled in understanding. Gerda had been close to the royal family since King Agnarr was a young child, she saw him fall in love with Queen Iduna, she witnessed the birth of both princesses and seeing them grow into adults caused her mixed feelings.

"You are going to accomplish great things, Your Highness," says the maid. "I don't know anyone who can compare to your tenacity, just have to be patient, your time will come."

"I can't be patient watching the Council oppress my people," Anna protests, gritting her teeth. "But you're right about the fact that it's inappropriate to antagonize them in public. There are other, more diplomatic ways to bring about change."

A troubled smile spread across the princess's face, thinking about how she would manage to approach her sister once she returned from her trip. Perhaps Anna's voice did not carry enough weight against the Lords, but in their desperation to maintain the Crown Princess's sympathy they would change their minds quickly.

Once the port of Equis was left behind, the deck overflowed with a festive atmosphere and camaraderie, monumental amounts of alcohol were passed from jar to jar among the crew.

Despite being several hundred miles from Arendelle, the sailors were rigorous in adhering to their national traditions, and she couldn't blame them, as the energy they projected was contagious. Even Syversen looked carefree, devoid of his uniform, shirt rolled up to his elbows that allowed him to look like the young man he really was.

Lord Janssen, the ambassador, appeared otherwise. His rigorously combed blonde hair and meticulously trimmed beard transported her back to the castle with the etiquette dinner full of protocols that she had to lead annually since she was eighteen.

Lord Peterssen probably transferred this responsibility to Anna during her absence, so she had to apologize to her once they docked at Arendelle.

"Your Highness, it's a nice day, don't you think?" Karl greets approaching, less formal than usual.  "The crew is delighted with the permission you gave us."

"As long as they don’t find out on land, it's nice to bring a little Arendelle to this ship," She replies with a faint joking tone. "They have done an incredible job; it would be ungrateful of me not to allow them to celebrate."

An awkward cough from the ambassador separated them, probably disgusted by the closeness between them. Karl was a good guy raised in a military family, extremely popular with the inhabitants of the capital. From time-to-time rumors aroused that he was paired with the princess and, from Lord Janssen old-fashioned perspective, he was irritated by the thought that another commoner would be promoted as royal consort again. Elsa didn't even want to imagine how he would act if knew who she was really interested in.

"Princess Elsa," the Lord calls her, holding up a letter that probably arrived with a messenger bird that morning. "We need to discuss some matters before lunch, do you think we could talk in private?"

Elsa nodded, leading him to the boardroom of the ship that the captain had given her to serve as an office during the trip. She knew that Lord Janssen was bitter against existence itself, but the contemptuous way in which he judged all people without a title of nobility began to disgust her.

"What happened?" She asks harsher than intended.

"Our army has captured a dozen young from Harmon near the border with Vesterland," he explains seriously. "They attempted to flee after they were served with draft notices for military service. General Solberg has asked me to tell you the news, as the trial will be held the day after we dock at Arendelle and you will be on the jury."

The smile and lightness she had maintained until that moment quickly vanished. It was well known among the royal guard that she preferred to stay out of the debate on compulsory military service in Arendelle, she herself had entered above her own wishes to set the example that not even royalty was exempt from doing so.

Except for the small group of grumpy mountaineers who were engaged in a job that no one else wanted to do, arguing that they were fighting a dangerous curse. But she was almost certain that the real reason they weren't forced to enlist was more associated with the fact that they feared that anyone who tried to approach them in army uniforms would be maimed or thrown into the ice.

"Did them send a list with the names of the detainees?" Elsa asks distantly.

"Here it is," he nods, handing her the paper that rested in his hands.

The list was small but detailed, attaching the work they performed and additional information about their families. She felt sorry to see so many artisans, artists and farmers being forced to abandon their lands because of their rejection of weapons. It made perfect sense for them to refuse to leave their homes because of a call from nobles they knew by titles and not by a face or a name.

However, the part of her that was military, was annoyed with the cowardly attitude they had shown and their improper behavior to what in the capital they currently considered an enormous honor.

"If I may give you my opinion, Your Highness," declares Lord Janssen. "It’s the perfect opportunity to give a message that will allow increase your popularity among commoners. Whether he rules for or against the detainees, will set a precedent in public opinion about your future reign."

Elsa already knew, but she couldn't find a prudent solution, which would cause the least amount of damage. She sighed, rubbing the bridge of her nose, analyzing the scenarios that her participation would trigger.

"Who will be on the jury?" She asks, almost in a whisper.

"Excuse me?"

"Princess Elsa or Captain Árnadalr?" specifies "Who do they want?"

Saw confusion on the ambassador's face, of course he didn't see them as two separate people, unlike the rest of the officers in the army. In any case, before Lord Janssen and the Council, Elsa would in the future be queen and the supreme commander of the armed forces. For them, it didn't make any difference what title was used, because it would always be in the highest category among all the Arendellians.

"Since it is a civil trial, we assume that they want the captain present to be a counterpart among the citizens' opinions," theorizes the ambassador.

"Then you know my answer, we cannot allow disturbances in the kingdom caused by people who are unable to swear allegiance correctly," replied with a bitter taste left by her own words. "Whether as a soldier or as a princess, it is unacceptable that they refuse to be part of our ranks, but we cannot allow people who are not citizens respectful of our flag to enter. The well-being of Arendelle will prevail, even above my personal opinion."

Lord Janssen nodded pleased, fully confident that when Elsa assumed the crown the Council would be much better positioned than at that time, where most decisions tended to antagonize King Agnarr's position, not daring to defy his will. On the other hand, Princess Elsa seemed to be growing well within the nationalist ideals they outlined in Arendelle.

Convincing her to become a soldier and turning her into an icon of heroism was the best idea they could have. They created a perfect heiress.

Cassandra had locked herself in her cabin all morning, trying not to complain too much about the noise among the sailors, or the traditional Arendellian music. She tried to ignore the party to which she was clearly not invited, feeding Owl and going to visit Fidella in the stables.

Her mood only worsened when she went out on deck to breathe fresh air, appreciating how half of the crew was frankly drunk and even Lieutenant Syversen was free to leave his assignment to play cards with his colleagues.

Searched for Elsa among the people on board, without finding a single sign of her presence since she woke up, returned to the cabins and was inadvertently distracted by a tense conversation.

Pricked up her ears until she could make out the princess's voice, exchanging impressions about a trial with the ambassador. Had never heard Elsa sound so distant and annoyed before, but Cass knew she would come and get her as soon as finished talking to the Lord, so ran back to her door, trying to look casual and carefree.

Confirming her suspicions, the princess approached her with a grim expression. The elegant attire warned her that this was a day of celebration, but Elsa’s sorrowful look hovered around a totally opposite idea.

"Did something happen, Your Highness?" Cass asks in an understanding tone.

"Trouble in the kingdom, several young of conscription age tried to escape and now we must judge them severely before others are motivated to follow their example," she replies seriously, without even reprimanding Cass for speaking to her using a title.

An uncomfortable feeling invaded Cassandra, knowing that "judging severely" in Arendelle did not reach the death sentence, although it could vary from life imprisonment to exile. And as an exile from her born kingdom, she loathed the idea of others being forced to leave their homeland because they differed in opinion with the authorities.

"Conscription is not a popular proposal in countries whose purposes are not bellicose," says, trying to sound indifferent.

"I agree with that, but there's no way I can be in favor of it without stirring up protests that might end up destabilizing Arendelle," the princess sighs, leaning against the wall. "I cannot reward insubordination, nor force them to enter without fear of being betrayed in the future. They have left me in a complicated position."

"If you get that kind of trouble, it's because they trust your judgment, Your Highness," Cass encourages her, placing a hand on her shoulder. "They are the kind of trials that will await you when you assume the crown, giving them to you now is the most unmistakable symbol of confidence of your advisors and the people towards you."

Elsa smiled, trying to hold on to those words, her countenance slowly brightening, before all traces of doubt were erased. If it was some kind of test, she was going to succeed.

"Let's go upstairs," suggests the princess, settling the previous matter. "The harvest festival is taking place in Arendelle, so it is mandatory to go up to celebrate and give thanks for a productive summer and the prosperity of our kingdom."

Perhaps it was not Elsa's intention to use those words, but it made Cass's restless heart relax and dispel the doubts about the night before. "Our Kingdom" sounded so perfect and appropriate that it made her feel fully welcome. She accepted the hand that was extended to her, walking behind Elsa into the sunlight.

For a moment she didn't mind following another crown princess, because she knew that at least Elsa wouldn't leave her in the background.

The ship's cooks brought up several pots with stews, garnishes and other dishes that they distributed quickly in a dining room that they set up improvised on the deck, the calm wind allowed them to sail without setbacks and dispense with most of the personnel who joined the celebration.

They passed baskets of bread, fruit, and cheese from hand to hand, singing cloying songs about legends of ancient heroes, menacing magical creatures, and how beautiful Arendelle was.

Cassandra was amazed to hear so much passion, pride, and joy, that it didn't sound like a ridiculous attempt to see the silver lining of her existence, but the coming together of a community that was just emerging from the shadows of its turbulent beginnings.

In contrast to Corona's temperate climate and fertile soils, Arendelle's only advantage was its geographical position as a point of connection between the rest of the continent and more northerly territories; Their sea routes were rich thanks to the trade alliances they intelligently wove and how they learned to exploit their resources prudently. It made all the sense in the world that Arendell's success was based on trust among its inhabitants.

To protect that, it was imperative that the torch of unity be held high, so the case of the defectors was a real threat to the kingdom's internal stability.

"Try not to think about it too much, it's just a day when we can be happy without worrying about the imminent arrival of winter," Elsa whispers quietly, cracking a smile. "We rarely have the luxury of stopping working, so it is one of the most eagerly awaited celebrations. This is a rather austere version."

"I'm surprised you're talking about austerity with this banquet," Cassandra says ironically, pointing to the dishes on the table, which, though they would seem simple and bland in any of the Seven Kingdoms, served their purpose.

They ignored, with questions among them about the event, the long and petulant speech of the ambassador about the importance of maintaining the lifestyle that had been instilled in them, compliance with the rules, the search for the common welfare and the defense of the ideals of the kingdom, alluding to several quotes from an ancient king who Cass assumed that at some point ruled over Arendelle.

"Do you want to say a few words, Your Highness?" The ambassador asks, calling the princess's attention.

"Of course. Thank you, Lord Janssen," Elsa smiles, regaining her composure as she raised her glass and stood up. "I can only thank everyone present, because it is thanks to you that this trip was productive. In addition to strengthening ties with Eldora, we have ensured a wide and rich trade route that will benefit our kingdom."

Jubilant applause spread among the people around the table, on which faces did not bother to hide how proud they were at such statements.

"Arendelle is still a young nation that we shape with daily actions and even if we were not born there, or if we are the children of the first to settle, it is still our home," she continues when the applause has stopped. "For Arendelle!"

Everyone cheered her words, resuming applause and toasting in the name of the kingdom. Syversen patted Cassandra on the shoulder as they clinked their glasses. The atmosphere anywhere else would seem false to Cass, however, when looked at the Arendellians she did not feel hypocrisy but a staunch desire to continue advancing.

"I promise our flag will always fly," Elsa declares energetically, focusing her gaze on Cass.

And just in that moment, she knew that had already found something that she would defend until her last breath.

Chapter Text

"We'll arrive in Arendelle tomorrow at noon," Syversen says to both, as they walk around the deck, not staggering even after drinking surprising amounts of alcohol. "You're lucky, Lieutenant Krone, testing for new recruits begins in a week; taking into account your experience and having the princess and me as references, it is possible that General Solberg will integrate you into the royal guard and even retain your rank."

"You are... quite considerate, Lieutenant Syversen," says Cassandra.

"Just pass the initial training and we'll have everything arranged," the guard promises. "I proceed to leave. Your Highness, Lieutenant," he adds with a bow.

Cass returned with a slight nod, before returning her attention to Elsa, who had remained very quiet after the banquet with the crew. She guessed it had something to do with the sailors' gossip about the strange closeness between the princess and Syversen.

They made their way to the bow of the ship, seeing miles of sea stretching towards the horizon. Both felt anxious to reach the kingdom, panicked their feelings, and did not have enough courage to mention it.

"Do you really want to join Arendelle's Royal Guard?" Elsa asks with an absent tone.

"Yes, Your Highness. I have no intention but to remain in the military, and if I can be by your side in that process, it will be a pleasure to do so," Cass replies politely.

A small smile spread across Elsa's face, worshiping the warm feeling that spread across her body, imaging a near future alongside people whom she fully trusted to help her in the development of her kingdom. And knew quite well who would entrust her life to.

The sun slowly set on the horizon, giving way to the starry firmament where the constellations brought Cass the ghost of the memory of her happy days serving Rapunzel. A dull ache spread across her right hand, forcing to clench her fist for relief.

Elsa noticed the gesture and gently took Cass by the wrist, calming the discomfort with her cold grip that pierced even the gloves that covered. Cassandra wanted to tell everything before landed, to reveal her secret before they fell into blind trust. On the other hand, she also wanted to remain a hero in Elsa’s eyes. Would the princess's perspective change when learned why she left Corona?

"I don't know why you left your dream behind twice, but I'll do everything in my power so that this time you can achieve it," Elsa promises in a whisper.

The statement sent shivers down her spine, convincing her that it was better to tell her the whole truth once they touched land, rather than betray her.

Anna's mind was working at full speed that prevented her from falling asleep properly. Gerda had to make a huge effort in her makeup to give her the fresh look she needed at the public event where they would receive Elsa, even so, something in her unfocused look alerted people to a problem.

She went out into the central courtyard of the castle, not greeting all the people who passed by her, provoking murmurs for that abnormal behavior. Anna continued until she reached the port, where the members of the guard were preparing everything for the entry of her sister's ship.

People worked as usual, loading or unloading goods onto ships, trading with merchants from distant lands, and doing business among the inhabitants themselves. It was an ordinary morning.

"Princess Anna," Dagmar calls her with an enthusiastic greeting. "What brings you here at this hour?"

"I came to see that everything goes smoothly," she replies with a half-truth, approaching her friend. "It is Elsa's first diplomatic mission, and it must end in the best way."

The guards nodded, returning to their usual positions when they saw an Arendellian ship slowly enter the fjord. The closer it got closer, everything that gave it away as an official vessel became evident: the sailors in impeccable uniforms, precise maneuvers, the proud flags fluttering in the wind and the imperturbable face of a princess on the deck.

Once the ship arrived at the dock, teams were quickly deployed to both crew and guard to speed up disembarkation. The people joined in solemn silence as the king and queen made their appearance.

Kai stepped ahead of them, proclaiming in a towering, pompous voice:

"Introducing Her Royal Highness, Princess Elsa of Arendelle."

Along with her voice, Elsa descended majestically, with her head held high and a firm posture, projecting an unchanging and timeless aura that drew all eyes upon her. Anna wanted to come forward to give a big hug, however, she realized that this moment was used by her sister to convey a message, no, a reminder of her true authority.

With mixed feelings, she bowed to Elsa, receiving in return a condescending slight nod. Then saw Elsa's own bow to her parents, who returned the gesture she made to Anna.

"Your Majesties," says the newcomer formally. "I am pleased to announce that our visit to Eldora has been fruitful, and the welcome extended to us was generous. I have witnessed with my own eyes the good results of the alliance established."

The glances exchanged between their parents convinced Anna that her sister's attitude was abnormal. Not even they, accustomed to the crown princess's public role, could accept that those words were the first uttered by Elsa after she had been gone for weeks.

"It's nice to hear it, Princess Elsa," her father replies in a strange tone. "It will be better for us to go to the castle, to properly discuss the results of the trip."

Elsa nodded, following her parents who led the procession. Despite the enormous desire she had to catch up with her sister, Anna forced herself to stay behind for a while longer.

Saw Lord Janssen disembark, somewhat annoyed that his triumphant return was notoriously ignored, and behind them, Lieutenant Syversen conversing with a woman she thought remembered.

Anna blinked in perplexity as recognized her, not knowing why she arrived on that ship after a routine diplomatic mission. She had to quickly intercept Elsa, because things really happened during their estrangement that needed to be discussed.

Once the curious eyes of the port dissipated, Cassandra was able to disembark with Fidella and Owl to a small hostel that Elsa had recommended to her. Syversen helped carry her luggage, but she assumed that this gesture was not voluntary but an express order from the princess herself.

At first, the owner of the establishment behaved dismayed and refused the entry of a bird of prey, fortunately Syversen was able to convince her that it would be temporary while the tests for entry into the army were carried out.

Cass knew that the lieutenant was popular with the inhabitants, although she never imagined that he would have such an influence over the town. Karl said goodbye to her after helping her settle in and assumed that he returned to the castle.

That morning, Karl had a long conversation with her about what kind of activities would await her during the week of admission tests, assuring that she should not worry at all about her nationality or status as a former member of the Eldoran guard. Cass had to admit that he was good at talking to people.

She leaned back on the uncomfortable little bed, focusing on the room's sober décor. Owl flapped its wings as he looked for a place to rest before going out at night to hunt. Cassandra tried to focus her thoughts on what she would do once she could settle into the Arendellian guard, unconsciously smiling at Elsa's recurring appearance in them.

"I hope I'm not making a mistake," says on the air, hoping not to disturb her feathered friend. "Because I want this to be permanent."

In her mind, the poisonous laughter of the memories of her version with the moonstone decided to make an appearance, mocking again her attempts to rebuild a decent life that she did not feel worthy of.

Her hand began to sting, forcing to bite her tongue so as not to let out a heartbreaking scream, she removed the glove expecting to see limb burned and unused, the only thing she saw was a skin with large scars that was not beautiful but remained fully functional.

The combined power of the sun and moon brought her back to life, though they failed to erase the records of all the traumatic events she suffered from following Rapunzel on her crusade.

"Please, stop," Cass muttered, writhing in pain for what might have been minutes or hours, before gave in spontaneously.

Owl had settled on her chest, watching her with his rapacious eyes, in what she assumed was his attempt to act as support. Cass opened and closed her hand multiple times, to certify that it was still useful.

Let out a heavy sigh and decided to go out to the village to get supplies. If she remained alone and idle, her mind would begin to play with her, it would be impossible control the tormenting memories of the past.

Once she reached her room, Elsa allowed herself to collapse and take off her political mask, along with the annoying formal dress that the image consultant had recommended she wear for her return. Searched through her clothes for a less restricted outfit to make the change quickly.

As soon as she finished dressing, the bedroom door opened, letting in Anna who looked angry. She knew that her performance baffled half of those present, but she did not imagine that could displease her little sister.

"May I know what happened there, Your Royal Highness?" Anna asks acidly.

"Tomorrow's trial. It is essential that all the people who have not yet established their position decide to support the decision I make," she explains tiredly.

"The decision you will make or the one that the Council instructed you to make?" Anna protests really on the verge of anger.

Lieutenant Syversen had informed her as soon as they met at the end of their respective reports, explaining that Harmon's guys were detained at the border post and their relatives were not notified.

Elsa knew that the situation around military service in some villages was not as supportive as in the capital, however, she had no idea of the cruel measures that were practiced discouraging desertion.

"Anna, you are a soldier too, tell me how you can consent to such a fault against the laws of Arendelle?" Elsa interjects, hoping not to make the situation worse. "I know they don't want to join the military, but if we make exceptions for each ‘extraordinary case’ the situation will become critical."

“Critical for whom? Do you think Dad plans to invade our neighbors out of a desire for expansion?" Anna asks incredulously. "Do you intend to lead an imperialist campaign during your reign? Is that the future you want for Arendelle?"

Her little sister's words felt like a slap in the face, though those same questions haunted her mind every night since she became aware of the news. However, could not help but remember the internal crisis of Eldora and the very vulnerability of her lands to international opinion. Only the Arendellians would protect Arendelle.

"Of course I don't want to do anything like that," she retorts, trying to stay calm. "I seek the best for my people and at this time we cannot do without a strong army of our own. I do this to make sure that none of us should marry to establish military alliances. I could not see Arendelle subjugated to other countries."

Anna's expression had not softened, her eyes continued to glow with fury as they never had before, her whole body was tense; while Elsa felt that her own powers were getting out of control.

"Elsa, I know the weight of the kingdom is on your shoulders but remember that you should never prioritize the security of the territory over the well-being of your citizens," Anna says, leaving her room without allowing her to answer.

The trial had been held behind open doors, with the defendants explaining the personal reasons behind their escape to the border with Vesterland. At first their words moved Elsa and had a similar effect among the rest of the attendees, but as they progressed with that stories sympathy diminished.

Most claimed that their family depended on their presence to provide for their livelihood, but others declared an outspoken rejection of the kingdom's militaristic policies. The murmurs in the courtroom were increasingly intense, forcing the judge to ask for silence on more than one occasion.

"I'm a pacifist," says an accused red-haired young man, as if clearing everything up. "Maintaining power using arms is a sign of the decline of the royal family's influence among the people. There are smarter ways to maintain order and if our rulers cannot appreciate it, then it is our duty to point out their mistakes."

An older woman, who Elsa assumed was his mother, asked him to stop, before the public protests rose again. It was inconceivable to the Arendellians of the capital that they could rant in such a way against their beloved Royal Family. Especially tending to crown princess among the jury.

"I think we've heard enough," says the judge, standing up. "We take a recess while the jury renders its verdict."

All the members of the jury got up to go and debate in private their impressions on the matter, although the decision had been made well in advance among a few outside the room, who only used them to give the illusion of participation of all sectors of society.

"Captain Árnadalr, what you are proposing is unacceptable," says Wael, who was selected as a citizen advisor. "They cannot hand down such a severe sentence just because they do not share the opinion of the aristocrats."

"Did you serve in the army?" Elsa interrupts with more harshness than she intended.

"No, Your Hig... Captain," he corrected himself.

"Well, then you don't know what it means for my generation to be at the forefront of the defense of our country," continues with the answer that robbed her of sleep the night before. "If I myself, being a member of the royal family, was not exempt from performing military service, it is implausible to debate its obligatory nature."

The princess stood up, walking around the small enclosure, marking her every step, drawing the attention of those present not to her, but to the uniform she was wearing. Elsa did not like to act haughty, or to adopt an intimidating posture. No one had forced her to do so, but she felt compelled to do so.

"I remind you; they receive a salary while are active members and can leave after two years if do not like it. In addition to the fact that there is a job that exempts them from doing so. If such was their desire to evade it, they could have done so within the legal guidelines" her own voice sounded so foreign in her ears that she barely recognized it.

The rest of the citizen jurors remained attentive to her words. After all, the only person in the room who was part of that generation forced into military service was Elsa. They may have seen younger people being recruited, but they were able to escape the experience.

"We cannot consent to the trampling of our laws, but I agree with the fact that not all of them deserve severe punishment," Elsa adds coldly. "In my opinion and reviewing each particular case, we can impose three years of service on those whose faults appeal to family subsistence or professional development. But to those who openly spoke out against the Arendellian laws... Technically they are still civilians, it would be better for you to decide."

"That is reasonable, Captain Árnadalr," agrees Mr. Eriksen, one of the teachers at the capital middle school. "I fully agree with you, and I thank you for your trust"

Murmurs of approval spread, leaving Wael annoyed, but no arguments to fight back. They wrote their decision on a piece of paper that they kept in a sealed envelope, which they would give to the judge who would be the one who would finally set the sentence.

Rumors spread in the town like wildfire, after a notice was pasted on each bulletin board with the sentence given to each of the detainees for treason. Some of them were lucky with an increase in their mandatory service period and the payment of a fine by their family, while others would have to work in the coal mines for seven years and two service-age relatives would be forced to rejoin the military.

Curiously, opinions were not as divided as she supposed, they applauded the fact that they were punished without sending them to prison or exile. However, Cassandra was uncomfortable as some citizens clamored for harsher sentences.

Another thing that was on everyone's lips was the positive response to Elsa, even above other public figures who had participated in said event. Every few minutes someone would mention her sensible actions, extolling her recent actions.

"King Runeard, who may rest in peace, would be exceedingly proud of our Princess Elsa," says a fisherman, unloading the goods from his ship. "All that she has done for the kingdom is admirable. A regent with a strong hand was needed who could calm the dissident attitude of the villages."

"Definitely," agrees a merchant. "The princess is so wonderful that she doesn't need a marriage alliance to keep Arendelle safe, even from citizens who oppose progress."

Cass continued walking to the hostel where stayed, carrying some provisions to feed Fidella and Owl, she had an appointment with the princess at sunset in the library of the capital, so decided to take advantage of her morning before that meeting.

However, two royal guards approached her unexpectedly, intercepting before she could veer in another direction. She recognized one of them as Princess Anna, the second did not remember, but imagined that perhaps she was subordinate to the first.

"We need to talk, Lieutenant Krone," Anna says, giving her no reply.

"I thought your sister told you about my arrival," she replies, trying not to sound aggressive.

"I haven't had time to speak properly to Her Royal Highness," Anna snorts, using Elsa's title angrily, leading her onto a path she knew led into the forest. "I think there are several things that need to be clarified before accepting you as a guest on Arendelle."

She tried not to panic, because as a ‘tourist’ in the kingdom it would be inconceivable that would be attacked by the royal guard. Especially since she had a high-ranking distinction given by King Agnarr himself and her friendship with Princess Elsa.

"I'll be happy to answer everything you want to know," she replies, believing that if she was a cooperator she would get out of this mess quickly.

"Okay, what happened in Eldora to make Elsa come back so different? Why is she suddenly so conciliatory and accommodating to the Council?" Anna asks with a broken voice.

"I should ask her that," Cass says, not understanding without understanding how bad the reunion was of the, presumably, closest royal sisters of the continent. "The news of Harmon's fugitives was difficult for her to assimilate during the trip, and she was reluctant to get involved in the trial, but there was no way to evade it."

"There's always a way," Anna protests.

The other guard stood at attention, but her gaze was confused. You could tell that she was close to Anna, although at the time their opinions did not coincide. Cass knew the minor princess at all, except for Elsa's occasional brief mentions of her, in was portrayed as someone completely different.

"There could be, but don't be so hard on her, she really looked for it," Cass declares in a low voice, trying to calm down Anna. "I didn't sympathize with the decision she made either, but it's something she had to do as Captain Árnadalr, not as your sister and not as my friend. We must respect that."

"Lieutenant Árnadalr, the change of watch will be in twenty minutes. We will create confusion if you don't show up," says the other girl.

"Yes, it's time to go, Dagmar," Anna nods. "I don't know what you're doing here, but I'll be watching you, Lieutenant Krone."

Cass frowned as she watched them leave. What kind of conspiracy theory had Anna formed in her head? she decided not to add that encounter to Elsa's long list of worries, promising herself to solve it in her own way.

The week had passed quickly and as Lieutenant Syversen promised, the admission tests were simple, perhaps to rule out as few candidates as possible. Surprisingly, she was not the only person of unequal age who was trying to enter the Arendellian army. Cass distinguished many foreigners from neighboring countries, especially women, seeking to be selected.

After that process, they were taken to a training camp on the outskirts of the capital where they went through a harsher regime that would last four months, which allowed them to condition themselves to balance the physical abilities of the recruits.

Different officers watched them each day, determining who would be assigned to each division of the army, navy, and royal guard. Cass had tried to keep a low profile, but her experience hurriedly became apparent above even the conscripts from military families. Would inevitably have attracted attention in one way or another.

Learned that the routine at the camp was simple: basic survival skills, war tactics, cartography, weapons handling and maintenance, national history, and apprenticeship of a trade. Based on what she heard in the hallways, the specialized training of each division of the army would be granted to them as they progressed according to their abilities.

In such a way that navigation was not a problem for her, nor riding a horse, nor the use of heavy weapons. If there was any weakness in their vast military background, would say it was the weapon-forging area, although that used to be the weak point of most.

On the afternoons of the penultimate weekend of the month, the recruits were allowed to travel to the town of Lillesand, a small and cozy place where only a dozen families lived dedicated to providing food, materials and entertainment to the soldiers.

Some of the colleagues were fortunate enough to receive visits from their relatives, while others were satisfied to go to the post office and exchange letters. Cassandra was not lucky enough to do either. So, she preferred to stay and train, clean her boots or read anything that would help integrate with the culture of the region: from its rich mythology to botany.

"You've impressed a lot of people lately," says Sergeant Bruhn, who set out to teach her the art of woodcarving.

For some reason, a ritual that every young Arendellian of marriageable age had to master was the making of a wooden spoon, so the sergeant had taken it very seriously not to let any recruit finish basic training without being an expert woodcarver.

"I must live up to what is expected of me," Cassandra replies in a formal tone.

"Don't patronize yourself, Krone. I can bet my tobacco stock that you're the best candidate in the last ten years," Bruhn laughs, pleased. "You know, I could do this, lumber has been my family's business for generations, but there's something enriching about staying in the military. It's almost addictive in a way."

"It's easy to be seduced when there's no threat to face," Cass chimes in.

"Perhaps it is, even so, we cannot take peace for granted, nor assume someone take up arms to defend it with the same fervor as we do. That's why we're here, don't you think?" He sighs with his gaze lost in the horizon. "Get our hands dirty so no one else has to."

He tapped his own piece, showing it to Cass, who entertained himself by making a complicated pattern on the handle. There was simply no point of comparison between Bruhn's admirable work and Cassandra's crude imitation. They let out a heartfelt laugh, before going over the technique again, when a voice interrupted them.

"Krone, there's someone asking for you in the mess hall," reports Stig Erdmann, a lanky boy who resembled a scarecrow, who insisted that his destiny was to join the Navy.

She sat up suspiciously, shaking her sawdust-strewn hands and apologizing to her superior, before heading to the main compound, going over who might be looking for her and for what reason. Other recruits had already gathered around the dining room windows, whispering emboldened to each other. She must have been a moderately graceful girl.

One thing she learned in her first days at the camp was that this was the pinnacle moment for Arendellian youth to discover the world around them: the opportunity for some to escape their small and isolated villages, meet new people, develop their true personality, live a different life.

The age of recruitment was seventeen to eighteen; being able to get an extension until they were twenty in the case of girls, if they had babies in that period, something that no longer happened so often according to what they had told her. Most preferred to finish their military service immediately and from there, get their lives on track.

Given the age most recruits were in, gossip and squabbles tended to be pretty silly from Cassandra's adult perspective. She guessed they were comparing the visitor to the baker's daughter or tailor’s niece from Lillesand.

"Are they related?" She heard someone in the distance.

"If so, genetics has favored her resoundingly," replies another.

"I should have enrolled in her generation," someone else added.

Cass managed to elbow her way to the door with an idea of who it was. Sitting at a small table in the corner of the dining room and surrounded by a group of officers in charge of the camp, her presence demanded attention. Even with the austere uniform of the guard covered with the white cloak, without any badge or medal, her beauty was impossible to hide.

"Of course we will take your recommendation into account, captain," says one of the lieutenants, before leading the rest to the exit, scaring away the small audience assembled.

For an instant, the tiny table seemed to her an endless abyss, the presence of the princess was like an illusion swept in the ice, so cold and distant that she even wanted to doubt its existence.

"What did you say to be here?" Cass asks, taking a seat in front of her.

The spell was broken when Elsa's icy blue eyes contacted hers, transporting Cass to all the pleasant memories they had shared. The time apart had not made the emotions it provoked any less familiar.

"Just mentioning that I'm on active duty is pretty effective," Elsa smiles slightly. "Árnadalr is not an easy surname to forget."

"Why did you cause them the worst blizzard in the last decade or because both sisters joined the guard?"

"I'll say it was just a little better than mediocre, they know I didn't make it to the Guard organically," she sighs, as hands Cass a bag of candy. "I just came to see how you were adapting."

"Better than you imagine, I won't lie by saying that I have a lot friends, in fact, I've gotten more detractors than allies, but I manage," Cassandra explains lightly. "And things in the castle?"

"Random problems more political than military, mostly solved or in the process of doing so," Elsa says, downplaying their importance. "I had the opportunity to dig into Arendelle's military service laws, and there isn’t anything that rescinds your degrees acquired abroad. Before it was a promise, now it is a fact, when you join the section assigned to you will not start from scratch."

Cass forced an undaunted expression, though she wanted to jump in and give her a hug. It was by far the best news she had ever received; how many people could count on such a privilege?

"What can I pay for your consideration, captain?" She asks boldly, taking one of the sweets from the bag.

Was delighted to see the blush spread across Elsa's pale face, who found no ingenious answer to continue the game.

"Just don't disappoint me, Krone," princess replies with a slight stutter, rising in a hurry. "And that's your gift for the end-of-year festivities."

Cass let out a snort of amusement. Disappointing her was not in the plans.

On the last night of basic training, all recruits were called to a particular meeting to establish the division to which they would be affiliated. Cass knew from the beginning about her assignment on Syversen and Elsa's recommendation but still felt uneasy about it without confirmation.

"Cassandra Krone," Sergeant Bruhn announces proudly. "Royal Guard, meet your assigned officer in tent three."

She stood up, feeling the spiteful stares of other aspirants, getting into the Guard was complicated even with letters of recommendation. It was the assignment that everyone longed for because it implied staying in the capital, a higher salary and a secure future; It was not surprising that almost all the positions were reserved for the upper class of Arendelle. Hundreds of them fought each year for something that was rife with nepotism.

When entered the tent that was indicated, she was surprised not to see a sergeant or lieutenant waiting for her; but a tall and elegant man who seemed never to have touched a sword that was not for fencing or ornament. It was impossible to forget his contemptuous and disdainful expression.

"Lieutenant Krone," Lord Peterssen greets, pointing to the seat in front of him. "It is a pleasure to see you again."

"The pleasure is all mine, my Lord," Cassandra says, bowing slightly. "Have you requested to see me?"

If was surprised by Cassandra's respectful gesture, he did not show it. Took a seat, before a soldier poured each of them a cup of tea, which he drank calmly as if it were a social visit, further intriguing Cass.

"When I heard from General Solberg that Princess Elsa's personal guard had recommended you, I knew I should look into you. Corona, Eldora, and now Arendelle," the Lord enumerates. "Very powerful nations with tenuous ties, don't their backgrounds seem suspicious to you?"

"They are, what am I supposed to answer?"

A dangerous smile spread across Lord Peterssen's face, as if she had given him the answer he was looking for.

"Why would a protégé of the Queen of Corona join the royal guard of Arendelle? And gain the trust directly of our crown princess to the point that she prefers to come and visit you on her birthday instead of attending her own party, how am I supposed to react?"

"I'm not a spy for either Corona or Eldora, sir," Cassandra says. "I was never a Corona soldier. My military career in Eldora ended due to an internal conflict that I imagine is documented, and it was Princess Elsa who sought me out, not the other way around. I just want to find my life's purpose by doing what I love, that has brought me to Arendelle."

"Are you sure it's the love of army and not of a princess?" He asks in a sharp tone. "I have worked for Arendelle since the time of King Runeard, I saw King Agnarr indulge in an inadequate love, and I will not allow Princess Elsa to fall into an even more dangerous position."

Cass was perplexed at the discovery of her secret, because was sure that no one else had noticed the inappropriate interactions she had with Elsa, they were very careful trying to avoid scandals. Thought about escaping, but it was too late. If Lord Peterssen had no confirmation of the information, she had just given it to him.

"Don't get me wrong, I'm not against love between two people, especially not when it's someone so close," Peterssen adds. "However, the heirs to the Arendellian crown seem to be dazzled by the prospect less appropriate in the national political context."

He let out a slow, infuriating sigh, stirring with a teaspoon to dissolve a sugar cube. Somehow it reminded Cass of a cat playing with its prey, still didn't figure out his purpose, adding to her frustration. Lord Peterssen maintained that insulting calm which would otherwise have made her resort to violence.

"I've done a lot of research on you; you know anyone can access any secret at the right price. In Arendelle we are not so soft on traitors, but your track record and experience is impressive," he admits, sipping a little more tea. "If you swear absolute loyalty to us, we can reach an agreement. Eldora trusted you; Corona is indifferent for us; now I give you the benefit of the doubt. Are you willing to defend Arendelle? or at less Her Royal Highness?"

"Until my last breath."

"Then don't tell Princess Elsa anything about your past. If you really have feelings for her, don't do anything stupid that could jeopardize her throne," Lord Peterssen emphasizes, standing up. "At least, not until Arendelle is in a more advantageous position than it is now."

Cassandra nodded, her nerves running high. She had already given up on the idea of ​​hoping Elsa would reciprocate her feelings, but being explicitly forced back by a Lord, whom she saw only a couple of times, was annoying her.

"Wouldn't you like to use your real name for a change? Now you’re here, could do it without fear of reprisals," asks Lord Peterssen before leaving the tent.

"I must not let Princess Elsa know of my past," she replies tensely, "So I shall be better off leaving that name buried."

Lord Peterssen nodded, satisfied that his indications were clear. He may not have succeeded in alienating King Agnarr from Queen Iduna, but over the years they consolidated the royal family in such a way that it was inconceivable to question them. From that moment on, it was only up to him to prevent Princess Elsa from putting that stability at risk by a passionate impulse.

Kristoff tried to hide his excitement when he was chosen as a new member of the royal guard, not believing that he was one of the ten selected among all the recruits to join what was supposed to be the best of the assignments.

Royal Guards had typically spent a period in the army or navy before applying for a second specific selection process for entry. The other people who traveled in the cart that returned them to the castle were evidently rich or noble children, who were favored by one or more officers to spare them the hardships of the high seas or the base army.

However, one figure stood out among the nine selected, a woman with dark, short hair who appeared to be even older than Kristoff. It was easy to deduce that she was a foreigner, because otherwise she would have done her military service younger.

Compared to the rest of the recruits, both were remarkable: Kristoff for his rough and robust appearance, the woman for her calculated movements and trained gestures. Whoever she was, had more experience than everyone else combined.

"We're here, they can come down!" A sergeant shouts from the front of the wagon.

The training yard was huge, there were formations of trained guards and officers in front, watching them. They were taken to barracks where were assigned beds and uniforms to change immediately to go to training. However, the woman was pulled aside by a soldier, telling her that the officers and non-commissioned officers were waiting for her.

He didn't know exactly what was going on, but he guessed it was to lead her with the other female guards. He quickly put on the green training uniform, a more austere and comfortable version of the regulation or the gala uniform and went out with his companions to the courtyard where several officers in line were waiting for them.

Kristoff didn't consider himself good with names or faces, but seeing the blonde who yelled at him in the summer when he left his cargo of ice at the castle, generated a bit of resentment inside. The officer looked just as aloof as he remembered, with her impeccably ironed uniform, stern expression and strict hairstyle.

"Good afternoon, soldiers," says a middle-aged man, with multiple distinctions pinned to his coat. "You, of all the kingdom candidates, proved to be the most remarkable, brilliant, and fit to render service to your nation. Your duty from now on will be to ensure the safety of the royal family of Arendelle and the inhabitants of the capital. Great things are expected of you and that you fulfill that work until the last of your breaths. I am Commander Reishus and above me you will only find a few bureaucrats whose faces you will never see. To lead you I have my officer corps from whom you will learn all that corresponds to them before have a stable assignment."

Three people stepped forward, a red-haired girl, a blond young man and the officer Kristoff had recognized. For some reason, the idea of being subordinate to her made him uncomfortable.

"For the next months, they will be under their command. With Lieutenant Syversen: Haugen, Jørgensen, Krone, Lund, Moen." The commander listed sternly, pointing at the man. "With Lieutenant Árnadalr: Berge, Bjorgman, Edvarsen, Thorsen, Strøm."

The red-haired girl raised her hand, revealing that she was Lieutenant Árnadalr. Kristoff couldn't help but breathe a sigh of relief, she seemed the least severe of the three.

"You will all answer to Captain Árnadalr as well," Reishus adds. "She is in charge of all the royal guards of the castle. In the summer, she will select the best four to remain within the walls."

With a solemn nod, the blonde woman stepped forward. It made perfect sense that the royal guard was full of relatives, although it never crossed Kristoff's mind that it would be as notorious as putting two people with the same surname in charge of a group.

"One more thing," says a man seriously, making his way through the rest of the officers. "Krone, in front please."

The newcomers turned to each other in bewilderment as the only woman in the group advanced without hesitation until she was in front of all the prominent figures of the royal guard, as if she were used to such treatment.

"As we agreed when you were knighted of the Order of Aren, will retain your rank as a lieutenant, the titles acquired, and your years of active service in the royal guard of Eldora will be considered," the man proclaims, gesturing for a soldier to hand the captain a black box.

Opening the box, the captain offered the contents to the man who, from the murmurs among the new guards, was presumably General Solberg.

"Lieutenant Cassandra Krone, by the powers vested in me as General of the Armed Forces of the kingdom of Arendelle, do you solemnly swear to serve our nation, our principles, and our laws?"

"I swear," she declares in a firm tone.

"Do you swear allegiance to King Agnarr I, the royal family and the Arendellian Council?"

"I swear."

"Do you swear that you and your descendants will act as upright citizens, subjects of rights and obligations that are stipulated for the rest of the Arendellians?"

"I swear."

Krone stood firm as the badges of her rank were placed on her shoulders, placing far above most of those present. In Kristoff's eyes, the Árnadalr had different opinions about the event. It was likely that Krone was one of those favored by the captain.

"The deal doesn't change, Lieutenant," Solberg warns. "You will remain under the command of Lieutenant Syversen until Captain Árnadalr and Commander Reishus determine that you’re fit to be placed in charge of a section."

With a nod, the newly promoted woman took the order for granted and returned to the formation with the other young men who now viewed her with resentment, hardly comparable to the one dedicated by Lieutenant Árnadalr.

Fortunately for Kristoff, it seemed like he would get along with his officer.

The days passed quickly for Elsa once Commander Reishus publicly announced that they would keep her in the position of captain for at least a few more months. The Council's decision may have ultimately resulted in her serving better as a propaganda figure within Arendelle than as a political pawn abroad.

Obviously, her royal duties and the activities delegated by her father still took precedence, however, she devoted at least six hours a day to the royal guard. To their satisfaction, things seemed to be going well among the new members.

The relationship with Anna had slowly healed, in general terms they were fine, but not enough for them to speech the matter of trial without starting a fight, even after so many months. Elsa was puzzled by the fact that did not agree with her sister’s ideas, because earlier, even if she disagreed, Anna would support her position and try to understand her.

Leaned over her desk, reviewing reports of alcohol smugglers who had become a headache in recent weeks, forcing the palace's assigned guards to guard the fjord at night and close taverns that were not licensed by the crown, finding no sign of the criminals.

"Captain Árnadalr, we're waiting for you in the conference room," Syversen says, entering her office.

"I'll go right away," Elsa replies, standing up, rubbing her temples together. "Is there an update on the case?"

"I would say… something, but I don't think that's a good sign," Karl says with a grimace. "They will explain it to you in detail when we arrive."

The rest of the lieutenants of the royal guard were gathered in the room: Anna, Erling Freberg, Klein Melgaard, and Cass. Elsa was pleasantly surprised that she had been invited to the report because was supposed to be on trial period that would end at the last days of February.

Elsa took a seat at the head of the table, facing her sister. Karl remained on her right side, while Klein took the left spot. The atmosphere was tense, although not confrontational.

"Captain Árnadalr," Klein speaks. "We find a series of tunnels that cross the Havssele quay to the old part of Arendelle City, one of the roads leads to abandoned barns that are being watched from a distance waiting to stop the smugglers."

"Well, how are you sure of your information?" Elsa asks.

"Some farmers reported collapses inside their land while they were working the crops, they explored the tunnels for a while before notifying the guards," Anna summarizes. "These stretching for miles, probably covering most of the original city. From the type of construction, we suspect that they were created under orders from the castle."

Elsa's brow furrowed, she was aware that the kingdom was full of tunnels built in her grandfather's time to evacuate the inhabitants in case of an invasion, but supposedly they were never inaugurated or revealed to the public, if anyone gave them use it was because they knew of their existence.

Now she understood why Syversen wasn't happy to break the news to her.

"Inside the tunnels we seized a large amount of alcoholic beverages and merchandise from other kingdoms, it was inevitable to make the connection with the smugglers, we believe they are trying to take this merch out of Arendelle to neighboring countries," Cassandra adds. "We will begin to explore them once you give us the authorization to mobilize the brigades."

"You have authorization, it will be handled with the utmost discretion. Choose three of your most trusted guards, we'll limit the work teams," Elsa orders, nervously twisting the fingers of her gloves.  "All reports will be made directly with me; not a word to Captain Folkestad or Commander Reishus, much less to the members of the Council."

"Yes, ma'am," they replied in chorus.

They nodded obediently, rising as soon as Elsa stood up. They couldn't directly accuse anyone of corruption, however, the odds of a group of smugglers accidentally finding secret tunnels were very low. They had to be vigilant so that no one hindered the investigation.

Chapter Text

Anna's footsteps echoed on the stone floor, as they walked through the tunnels that seemed at constant risk of collapsing. Dagmar next to Anna was constantly wrinkling her nose, Bjorgman had to shrink to walk in the narrowest sections and Krone was just following them, not making any noise.

"Well, there's nothing new," Anna murmurs, leaning against the wall, after hours of walking. "We've been doing this for two weeks and seems to have no end. Do you know if anybody reported another exit besides the one from the barn?"

"No, Lieutenant," Dagmar replies, offering her some water. "According to the maps found by Captain Árnadalr, we have already gone through ninety percent of the tunnels, it’s likely that they have looked for an alternative route to move the merch."

Watched as Krone finished adjusting the map she was commissioned to make, in total silence. Anna had not had a chance to speak to her since Elsa's arrival, then Cassandra went to the training ground and did not see her again until she returned to the capital; moreover, was part of Syversen's group, so their interactions were limited.

During the weekly reports they confirmed what she already knew: Krone was a good soldier, responsible, skilled, there was a significant gap between her and the rest of the chosen of that year. Even in strict parameters, she was likely to perform the role of lieutenant better than any other active member of the royal guard. Cassandra asserted every ounce of trust that Elsa had given her, and ironically that annoyed Anna.

"That's enough for today. Let's go," Anna orders, returning the way they came. "Let's hope Erling's group has a better outcome."

All nodded, following the light of the lantern, but when reached a crossroads, they did not find the red flags that Kristoff placed as a sign so as not to be disoriented in that enormous labyrinth where time and space seemed to make less sense. Anna frowned in confusion. It was up to her to go to the front to guide them, Dagmar carried the provisions and the lamp, Kristoff marked the route they followed and Cassandra in the rear reflected everything on the map.

"What happened?" Krone asks when she sees that no one was advancing. "Lieutenant Árnadalr, is everything in order?"

"Everything in order?" Anna asks in an irritated tone. "Are you trying to get us lost?"

The light was dim; everyone's faces were a set of lights and shadows that blurred their features. Anna didn't trust Krone because she believed that Elsa’s change was being influenced by her. Her presence in the royal guard, perfect as it was, did not convince Anna at all.

"Do you think I can do something like that? I've been busy on the map, Bjorgman knows that" Cassandra refutes.

Kristoff nodded, he wasn't a guy with many words, nor did he like to be in the middle of a conflict between two officers. Anna watched him irritated, though she couldn't get angry with him. In theoretical terms, she and Krone had the same rank.

"Can your map get us out of here, Lieutenant Krone?" Dagmar interjects before the situation explodes.

"Of course, though, I'm intrigued that the signs have disappeared if no one else should be down here," Cassandra replies, looking at Anna. "Lieutenant Freberg's team will relieve us as soon as we leave, is it possible that someone will follow us?"

That option was more reasonable, but Anna didn't like what it implied. She had in her hands the decision about finding that alleged spy or taking them to the surface to report the abnormalities. Months ago, her answer would have been obvious, now, in her effort not to disappoint anyone, she was divided.

"Give the map to Dagmar," Anna orders, before turning to her friend. "Go with Kristoff to the surface and call Lieutenant Freberg. Krone and I will stay and look, right?"

"Yes, lieutenant," they replied in chorus.

Krone followed her unconvinced, watching the two of them leave, taking the most faithful copy of the map with them. She lit her own lamp, trying to find clues that they were recently used. Anna turned around every few minutes, imagining catastrophic scenarios in which she was stabbed in the back, fortunately, the only deadly thing she received was a disgusted gaze.

A hunch led her through the dark, cold, damp corridors, descending to deeper areas, presumably leading to a system of underground caves of unknown extent. The air at that level felt stale, her mind was beginning to play a bad streak after so long without seeing the sun.

"So, Cassandra Krone, do you feel comfortable in Arendelle? You've been here for almost half a year," Anna asks, fed up with the sound of filtered water and wet echo.

"It's a nice place, Lieutenant Árnadalr," she replies politely.

Anna knew she wasn't going to get to it easily, but a pleasant conversation would help her focus. Considered herself a person who worked best with several tasks at once, rather than forcing to perform just one.

"I need to speak to be able to think, does it bother you if I do?" Anna asks.

"Could I avoid it?"

Anna couldn't contain a laugh, saw Cassandra swell with resignation, and began to ramble about nonsense that happened during the last few weeks in the kingdom: a sheep that turned purple, batches of shoes missing from the docks that were destined for the port of Eldora, the nearby visit of the queen of Chatho to Arendelle and crazy rumors of an alleged sighting of huldrefólks.

She thought was hallucinating when heard Cassandra laugh a couple of times, which made her empathize a little more knowing that she was human. What could Krone have done in Corona to flee? Had personality unpleasant, but much to her chagrin, she showed no signs of being dangerous.

"It's good to see that you have a sense of humor," Anna smiles without turning around.

"I admit that you have a charming personality, as Princess Elsa promised," Cassandra replies more seriously. "Although we should focus on work. It is imprudent to have come alone, we don’t know if they are preparing an ambush or, in the best, that there is no one here."

She shrugged, couldn't help but agree. Anna always opted for reckless and risky decisions, because she usually obtained results that justified them. At that moment sensed that they were close to getting what they wanted.

Cassandra motioned for silence as the sound of falling rocks echoed through the tunnels. The echo of distant footsteps splashing in water guided them in a chase through the first areas checked. Every step took made Anna gasp with excitement, feeling like she couldn't get a little more respect among the citizens.

Was so desperate in her hunt that she didn't even notice the unevenness and cracks in the ground until stumbled upon one of them. Anna felt the pain spread throughout her body, from her knees to hands she interposed to soften the fall, adding to her muddy uniform and a growing rage inside.

"Are you all right, Lieutenant?" Krone asks, helping her to her feet.

Drowned out a hiss of pain as she tried to move her left wrist, narrowing her gaze at a small silhouette that seemed hypnotized watching them. She turned to Cassandra and almost as if could read her thoughts, ran after whoever tried to sabotage the guard.

Swallowing her pride, Anna followed this time, holding the injured arm against her chest. Every turn they took, every corner they avoided and the crossroads they traveled, widened the distance between her and Krone. She sighed in defeat before hearing a high-pitched squeal.

"Let me go! Please! Help!" A little boy shouted.

Anna kept walking until she came across a tunnel with no way out. Cassandra held on to his elbow and aimed her sheathed sword at a sloppy-looking boy, dressed in tattered clothes and worn-out shoes. The boy's green eyes were brimming with loathing, while his small bony hands groped the wall.

"No one is coming to look for you," Cassandra says sternly. "You will accompany us back to the castle."

"That won't happen," he spits, pressing a block.

The walls creaked, the sound of machinery ringing in her ears as the wall opened with a large cloud of dust. Anna threw herself at the little boy, knocking him to the ground and holding him with her weight, while a huge cave full of merchandise was revealed before her eyes, with no other person in sight.

Freberg's group reached them a considerable time later, following the noise caused by the opening of the wall, claiming that the structure of all the tunnels was affected by the movement, rendering their maps completely useless.

They seized the contents of the cave, waiting for the arrival of the rest of the guard and began to check what was around the hiding place. The child was left in the care of Dagmar and Kristoff, while Cassandra and Anna gave their statements to the captain.

Elsa did not seem happy to inspect the sophisticated mechanism that allowed changes in the tunnel system and muttered to herself ideas that others did not understand, however, she congratulated Anna a couple of times for her correct action.

"We must take him to Arendelle, maybe he can give us some information," Elsa orders after a while.

"You're completely crazy if you think I'm going to betray them," the detainee snaps.

"It’s not something you have to decide now."

Although she wanted to intervene, Anna knew that the best way to proceed was to follow protocol and without arguing with her sister. Placed huge handcuffs on the boy, and they discreetly left stationing guards around the perimeter. Rumors would reach Commander Reishus in no time, so they had to hurry to avoid misunderstandings.

Elsa disliked giving explanations to people. As crown princess, many people believed that she only owed it to King Agnarr or perhaps to Queen Iduna. However, she used to find herself giving explanations of her life most of the time to everyone. The Council used to harass with questions regarding her future, claiming that she was of an age to choose even an official suitor.

However, giving explanations to Commander Reishus and General Solberg seemed worse than facing the group of angry Lords for contradicting the good customs of the Arendellian people.

"Captain Árnadalr, why did you conceal these operations from us?"

«Clearly not to commit a coup d'état», Elsa thought, forcing herself to remain composed.

"We had no idea who might be involved, the group of lieutenants were just following my orders," she explains, clenching her fists, feeling a clump of frost growing on her fingertips. "We discovered that only high-ranking military officials, other than members of the Infrastructure and Public Works Department, were aware of the existence of these tunnels."

The General remained silent, it would not be the first time that an act of corruption was accidentally discovered by a member of the Arendellian royalty. It was well known that Princess Elsa had inherited her mother's intelligence.

"Then we will make the necessary visits to the suspects," Reishus alleges. "I expected more prudence from you, Captain Árnadalr. This kind of whims are not condoned under my jurisdiction, regardless of the nobility of your surname. You should be punished for these actions. We will discuss that later."

A deathly silence filled the room, the lieutenants behind Elsa did not dare to talk about it, perhaps waiting for an outburst or "princess tantrum". Elsa nodded without reproach, making a salute before leaving, the rest of the officers left with her.

"Go back to your assignments," Elsa orders, trying not to sound hurt.

"Yes, captain," they answer in chorus.

Except for Anna, all lieutenants left. The corridor felt awkward and narrow, they walked side by side without uttering a single word until they returned to the castle hall.

The employees muttered as they passed, not daring to approach due to the strict regulations interposed in that impossible military act. They were convinced that the princesses should be concerned about matters such as Queen Iduna's upcoming birthday, rather than mobilizations of the royal guard.

The girls climbed the long flight of stairs, veering to the east wing, reserved for the royal family. Olina, who carried clean blankets to the bedrooms, tried to call them without success, attracting more attention from the rest of the maids. Anna decided that she would apologize later for her improper behavior.

"They're exaggerating about the punishment, you know that" Anna says, when they reached Elsa’s room, closing the door behind her. "This is the moment where ‘Her Royal Highness’ must make an appearance."

"They haven't exaggerated, it's something I have to assume to keep them distracted from the real goal," Elsa replies with terrifying serenity, sitting on the bed. "I anticipated that it would happen, Reishus is quite predictable; So, I prepared a reliable team to continue in the game."

"And you decided not to include me?" Anna asks, with a tone between disappointment and anger.

"I'd tell you, eventually," Elsa shrugs. "I was just waiting for them to think they neutralized the threat, since I will be under surveillance and they will not allow me to intervene, you will be in charge of my team."

With a narrowed gaze, Anna looked for hints of a joke on Elsa's face and in her memories of anyone in whom her sister placed full confidence. Who would risk a military sanction for following the apparent whim of a desperate princess?

"And your team is...?"

Elsa looked around the walls, until she was nailed to the door that led to the corridor, waiting for something or someone. Ever since they began exploring and mapping the underground tunnels, she had been on the lookout for any anomalous signals, behavior that worried Anna too much.

Once she felt confident that they were not being spied on, continued to speak:

"The Knights of the Order of Aren."

It made sense, the medal gave them a kind of immunity from the orders of army officers. After all, they were a group meant for the protection of the royal family, and if Elsa used that small legal loophole under their title, it would be easy to do an independent investigation.

"I'll make an appointment for tomorrow morning at the advanced training camp in the North Mountain," Elsa explains. "No one will disturb us there."

"No one will disturb us because it's covered in snow up to our knees," Anna protests. "How do you plan to leave the castle in the early hours of the morning without being detected? Or evade Syversen?"

"Syversen, of course, is coming with us. In addition, a violent snowfall is forecast tonight, everyone will seek shelter," she announces in a whisper. "We will leave through the Passage of the Giant of the Earth, to the waterfall. There will be four horses waiting for us there."

They remained for several minutes without saying anything. Anna's active imagination ran over the most clumsy and desperate plan her sister had ever laid down. There were so many loose ends in that operation, such as the use of a tunnel they knew from an old book in a secret room of the library that belonged to their mother, into which they were reprimanded for entering.

"You've been at it for a while," Anna laughs, patting her condescendingly on the shoulder. "Wait, who else is involved?"

"You know who".

Karl Syversen had met Princess Elsa immediately after he was assigned as the castle's royal guard five years earlier. He was a couple of years older than her and had proven to be an excellent soldier, so the king and queen considered him the most appropriate candidate to be their personal guard, perhaps also a potential friend.

The princess always behaved politely with him, trying not to go beyond the job line, even when she was included in the royal guard. However, it was undeniable that circumstances brought them closer, each expedition or diplomatic visit became a bridge that gradually connected them. They had a tacit agreement to talk about banalities when no one was around, express their concerns occasionally and even shared their interests on more than one occasion.

Being so close to Princess Elsa allowed him to see beyond the public figure, genuinely caring about her well-being as if she were one of his own. In the absence of siblings, he esteemed Elsa and Anna as if they were close relatives and felt that reciprocity, even if they did not show it openly.

So waiting for them in a dark corner of the kitchen shortly after dinner was no great sacrifice for him, nor was it much to slip down a rickety passageway beneath Arenfjord to a waterfall on the outskirts of town, much less to go out into the open near the end of winter. He would give his life to follow his future queen wherever it was needed.

"I see it took more minutes than estimated," Krone's mocking voice says, barely above the roar of the water, emerging from the shadows.

"Try to escape from Adelis’ light sleep and you'll find out why," Anna smiles, alluding to a grumpy cook at the castle who scolded anyone she found stealing snacks outside of mealtimes with a ladle.

Cassandra smiled back at Anna, causing relief to Karl, he could swear that three weeks ago the interaction between them would be considerably different. Elsa sighed in amusement, but her expression continued to worry him. If he had learned anything in all those years working by her side, it was that Elsa had a great ability to anticipate problems.

"Do you think the other soldiers will be there, Your Highness?" Karl asks, uneasy at the possibility that they had been betrayed.

"They will be," Elsa says, looking at the medal hanging from Krone's uniform. "Westen is not someone who ignores his duties."

He nodded not very convinced, walking behind the princess. Someone, possibly Krone, had already placed a few planks at the edge of the waterfall that allowed them to move along a relatively dry path.

Once they passed, made sure to remove the timbers and hide them in the forest, to avoid drawing attention to an access to the castle that was supposed to remain a national secret. The horses hidden in another cave in the mountainside, snorted as they arrived.

They trotted forward, using winding roads free of lookout posts, relying on the faint light of their lanterns and the moon not to wander in the dark. The night was advancing, and they still hadn't reached their destination.

Karl knew they wouldn't come looking for him or Krone, but if they didn't return to Arendelle before breakfast, the princesses would be in serious trouble. He doubted very much that the king was aware of or approved of this plan.

Did not know what time it was when they arrived at the training camp used by the army in summer and at that time it was abandoned. Only one of the buildings remained illuminated, dismissing the danger of being so far from any human settlement.

They took the horses to the stable, before entering the cozy room where eighteen soldiers joked with each other while sipping a steaming drink. As soon as them noticed their presence, remained silent

Syversen was aware that the army did not look favorably on the royal guard, but not of the degree of disdain directed against him and Princess Anna, who were complete strangers to them.

"Captain Árnadalr, it's an honor to see you again and hear that you need us," a man comes forward, who he assumed was Westen. "What is this mission for which you require our unity?"

Karl gritted his teeth, disgusted by the tone used. He knew that those soldiers were nothing extraordinary, they were only fortunate enough to be at the right time and place when the princess required them. Would even give more credit to Krone than to them. However, what bothered him most was not having been of help because was attending to the whims of the Council.

"First, I must introduce you to those who will collaborate with us."

The first time Cassandra participated in a special mission in Arendelle, it was not even her obligation to heed the call, but she was happy that the Arendellian soldiers backed Elsa without hesitation. Now, as one of the people who was called to that mission, it was difficult hide her pride and satisfaction.

She knew that in Syversen's eyes, the medal awarded to the soldiers who participated in the arrest of the Corona fugitives was an exaggeration; however, considering the problems that would have been unleashed if there had not been a timely intervention, it was the right merit.

The members of the Order of Aren listened intently to Elsa's story, biased and trimmed but understandable enough, stressing the importance of handling the matter with the utmost discretion and how it would be delicately manipulated so that they would act freely away from the gaze of Solberg and Reishus.

"You'll be under the command of Lieutenant Árnadalr," Elsa concludes in a serious tone.

"Excuse me, Captain, but if it's a question of following someone outsider, we'd rather obey Lieutenant Krone," interjects a boy whose name Cass couldn't remember. "If the point is to do it behind the back of the royal guard, it would be best not to associate with two of their lieutenants."

"There would be three, because Krone is one of us," Anna says.

Irritating murmurs spread in the room, as Elsa tried to silence them. Westen stared at Cass for a while, imagining the interests that had put her in that position.

"Lieutenant Árnadalr is my sister, my most trusted person. She will act as an intermediary on my behalf; you will inform her of what you find out, and she will be sure to notify me," explains Elsa harshly. "Syversen and Krone will send you information obtained by the guard so that you are up to date on developments and can easily avoid them. If you ever need any exclusive permission within the capital, you should go to them. I trust my people as much as I do you. It’s imperative that you cooperate with each other to make this work as discreetly as possible."

"It is our duty to heed the requests of a member of the royal family," Westen agrees with a nod. "We will start tomorrow at sunset, rest assured that it will be resolved soon, Your Highness."

"We'll make sure of it," Elsa agrees.

Cass had seen that determination in the past, in a different person, determined never to give up in the face of injustice. However, in Elsa, who seemed to carry the weight of the kingdom on her shoulders, the effect unleashed was different.

Elsa would not rest until she found the truth, no matter what means were necessary. Cassandra knew and respected it but couldn't pretend didn't care how far she was willing to go to get those answers.

Luckily for Anna, had people disposed to lie for her, even if it was only in small details. She had nothing on her schedule for that week besides afternoon classes, which, thanks to Dagmar's exaggerated story about a special assignment from Queen Iduna to oversee the new windmills, were forgiven.

However, her sister did not have the same fortune. After a long deliberation, Commander Reishus informed Elsa that was suspended from her military duties for twenty-one days along with the respective financial sanction. Which was the standard punishment for the first offense.

Syversen temporarily adopted the duties of interim captain, leaving Krone as the relief in his guard position assigned to the heiress. Anna tried not to laugh when she heard how appropriate the new lineup was for Elsa's crazy plan, who on top of everything, had an appropriate alibi to her research: the spring festival.

It was the perfect opportunity to uncover the corrupt member of the government.

"I must travel to Vesterland to meet King Jonas," King Agnarr reports over the meal. "So, you two will have to go to Havssele to supervise the progress of the expansion of the port."

"Me and?" Elsa asks, frowning.

"Anna, of course. It's a good opportunity for the citizens to see you together" Her mother nods. "Your father and I believe that your sister has been somewhat out of royal duties. It’s our obligation to participate. All of us."

It was an appropriate chance to look for clues, the irregularities in the transit of goods began to become evident there. Without the military investiture, officers could not tell them anything if they decided to explore on their own.

"Matters outside the capital have gotten a little out of control," the king explains, taking a biscuit from the central bowl. "One of the obligations we have with the people of Arendelle is to guarantee stability within our borders. Even the simple act of making an appearance implies granting that security to people."

"We'll attend," Anna promises, holding her sister's hand.

The king and queen smiled and continued eating, while they were informed of what would await them on this official visit. Anna tried to follow the conversation attentively, but she kept looking at Elsa, who was fiddling with the peas on her plate.

What would she have in mind to not want to go together to find evidence?

Despite her insistence, Commander Reishus had decided to lock up the boy they found in the tunnels in the dungeons. Elsa had visited him on multiple occasions since that event, to make sure that he was not mistreated and that he was well fed, since the only method of torture authorized in the kingdom was starvation.

It was no surprise to any of the guards to see her descend into the jail, nor did they do anything to prevent her access. They were aware of the sanction, although above the military rank, she continued to be the crown princess of Arendelle.

"Open the door," Elsa orders.

Upon entering the gloomy and small space, the boy who called himself Hauk, averted his gaze. After a couple of days in isolation, his facet as an instigator crumbled, revealing the scared boy that he really was.

"Captain Árnadalr, what will you do with me if I tell you what I know?" Hauk asks quietly. "What would that mean for me?"

"You can't be judged as harshly as an adult," Elsa replies, carefully selecting her words. "If the information is helpful, you may be exonerated of the charges. Maybe send you to an orphanage. I wouldn't worry about your future."

"And the other kids?" He asks.

She had a suspicion that Hauk would not be the only minor involved in the crimes, it was likely that they were a relatively large group. Although, to profit from the merch handled by the gang of smugglers, the leadership had to be in hands of adults.

"We'll figure it out as each of them helps us," Elsa replies.

Put down three cookies in front of him that she took from the kitchen before going downstairs. Elsa did not try to reward him for his actions, however, the conditions in which he was kept were, in her opinion, too severe. She imagined that it could be due to influence from outside. It would not be easy to resolve the whole matter in silence.

Walked out of the jail, thanking the guards for their patience and climbed to the stairs revisiting in her mind the crumbs that Hauk had given, before meeting a familiar face.

"I imagine you are coming to interrogate the detainee," Elsa says almost indifferently.

"Your Highness, a sentence needs to be handed down," says Lord Peterssen. "If those involved see that we will not act leniently towards their accomplices, they could decide to reach an agreement. I know that you are concerned about all the implications related to the case."

"We will not negotiate with those who break the law," Elsa pronounces. "I know that you are concerned about how disastrous it would be to make it public that a member of the Council or the Royal Guard is the ringleader of the smugglers. I am the most interested in avoiding a scandal, although I will not exempt nobles from responsibilities and sentence commoners."

Lord Peterssen sighed but had no congruent reply to her argument. Elsa knew that the most important thing for him was to maintain the appearance of stability, seeking the greater good of Arendelle, even if he was tracing a path of lies to safeguard the image of the Royal Family. And he was terribly effective at his job.

"It sounds cruel to say it that way, Your Highness," he interjects. "I simply want you to understand that this is not an appropriate time to divide the Council in their position on you."

"And why wouldn't it be?"

"There are rumors in the air, Your Highness, it seems that King Agnarr plans to do the Grand Tour in the summer, and leave you as regent," Lord Peterssen announces.