Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Kai, Gerda, Anna, Elsa, Kristoff, Inger, and Hans, gathered around the dinner table to eat supper. Anna and Elsa looked at Hans and Kai silently. Some soup and bread was laid upon the table, along with some other foods. Kai looked at the soup and smiled as if he was inspired by what he saw. "Does anyone want to hear a story about my uncle?" Kai asked the others. "Yes," beamed Gerda, but the others kept silent. Hans looked at Kai, curious regarding what tale he might want to tell. Kai smiled and began to narrate his tale.

"Once upon a time, a handsome young prince decided to go on a journey."
Kai looked at Hans and winked upon saying this, and Hans smirked in response.
"So he packed a small bag, said goodbye to his brother Lars, and set off. He sailed all day across the ocean. When it was early morning, he came to a small kingdom. Arendelle, it was called. 'I think I'll stop here,' he said to himself. Not too long after this, a great and mysterious winter had struck the kingdom. The princess had foolishly left the kingdom to find the source of the winter, and she had foolishly left the prince in charge of the kingdom."

Anna, Gerda, Inger, Kristoff, and Elsa, all frowned at Kai for saying this about Anna.
"The prince kept warm in the castle, and looked through the window. He saw the villagers freezing in the cold and felt sorry for them. So he decided to go out and buy them things to eat. Near the centre of the village, he met a group of people. So he introduced himself. 'I'm a simple traveler,' he said, "looking to buy food for hungry people.' 'We're sorry,' the villagers told him, 'but we have very little food. Our crops were very poor this year, and there's not much to eat in the whole village. Most of us are just barely getting by.' The prince went back to the castle sadly.

"On the way back to the castle, he noticed a few children throwing stones at each other. One of the stones struck the prince on the back. 'I'll kill whoever threw that,' the prince grumbled, picking up the stone and putting it in his pocket. He intended to use the stone to hit the boy who threw it at him, but he could not find him, for the boy had disappeared into the crowd. Once the prince arrived back at the castle, he asked the castle staff for food to feed the townsfolk. 'We have very little food,' they told him. 'I'm sorry to hear that,' the prince said. 'But you needn't worry about feeding me. I already have everything I need. In fact, I was thinking of making some stone soup to share with all of you.' The prince took out the stone from his pocket.

"The staff were all confused by this. 'Stone soup?' they asked. 'What's that? We've never heard of stone soup. 'Oh, it's wonderful,' said the prince. 'Best soup I've ever tasted. If you bring me a soup pot and some water, I'll make some for all of us.' Some of the staff left. When they returned, one was carrying a large soup pot, another had wood for a fire, and others brought water.

"When the fire was going and the water had begun to boil, the prince carefully dropped the stone into the boiling water. The staff watched eagerly. The prince began to slowly stir the pot, sniffing the aroma and licking his lips in anticipation. 'I do like a tasty stone soup,' he said. 'Of course, stone soup with cabbage—now that's really special.' 'I might be able to find a bit of cabbage,' one staff member said. And off she went off, returning with a small cabbage she had stored away in her pantry. 'Wonderful!' said the prince, as he added the cabbage to the pot. 'This reminds me of the time I had stone soup with cabbage and a bit of salted beef. It was unbelievably good.' After a moment of silence, the butcher spoke up. 'I know where there's a bit of salted beef,' he said. And off he went off to get it.

"When he returned, the prince added the beef to the soup pot and continued to stir. 'Can you imagine what this soup would taste like if we had a bit of onion…and perhaps a few potatoes…and a carrot or two…and some mushrooms? Oh, this would be a meal fit for royalty.' And before he knew it, the soup pot was filled to the brim with vegetables of all kinds— carrots and potatoes, mushrooms and onions, turnips and green beans, beets and celery—all brought by the men and women of the castle. Not only that, but the baker came out with some fresh bread and butter.

"And as the soup simmered slowly over the fire, the wonderful aroma began to waft all over the town. And everyone in the castle, including the prince, began to relax and talk together, sharing songs and stories and jokes. When the soup was finally done, the prince ladled it out into bowls and handed the bowls to the townsfolk, and they all shared a delicious meal together. There was more than enough for everyone to eat their fill. Afterward, they all declared that it was the best soup they had ever tasted. 'I can also make hot glogg out of a stone,' the prince boasted. And so he did. After the soup was finished, the prince noticed the boy who had struck him with the stone, and that boy was eating some of his soup. The prince picked up the stone, intending to strike the boy with the stone. However, he was interrupted by Olina, the palace cook. 'Would you like to sell that stone of yours?' she asked him. So the prince sold the stone for wine and chocolate."

After the story was over, Hans and Kai told everyone more about their adventures. Everyone listened intently except Anna, who was looking worriedly a signed piece of paper she held beneath her. On the piece of paper were written several figures. It was as though she was counting how long she had left to live. The figures on that piece of paper were magically counting down. "Anna, what's wrong?" asked Elsa, her voice full of concern. "It's nothing you need to worry about," Anna nervously replied. "It's just stuff related to work." She looked once more at the figures counting down, reflecting on what had happened the last couple of months, before folding the paper and placing it in her pocket. 

Months ago, when Elsa was still trapped in Ahtohallan, Anna was restless and thinking of her sister. She looked across the bed and saw her husband, Kristoff, sleeping soundly as if he hadn't a care in the world. A beard was beginning to grow across his face. Quickly, she crept out of bed, put on extra clothes, went out of the room, and went into the stables. She got her horse ready and rode out of the palace gates. Soon, she made it to the place where she first met the trolls all these years ago. "Grand Pabbie! Bulda!" Anna shouted at the top of her lungs. "I need your help!" One minute later, the multitude of rocks that surrounded her began to shift and roll. The rocks shifted into the forms of trolls. One of them was Pabbie and one of them was Bulda. "What troubles you, Queen Anna?" asked Pabbie, rolling his way up to her. 

"Pabbie, I'm tired," Anna answered, her face full of anguish. "I'm tired that after all these years, there's still so little about my sister I can remember. I'm probably never going to see my sister again. I accept that. But I want to at least remember the magic I used to see my sister conjure. Restore my memory, please!" Pabbie paused and looked at Anna with concern in his eyes, then held her hand. One minute later, he replied, "That I have no power to do." Anna's face fell. "However, I know someone who may be able to help you," Pabbie continued. "Who?" Anna asked, hope forming on her face. "He's right here with us," Pabbie said. "He was a boy who was trapped by his wicked enemy inside a tinderbox. We found the tinderbox and rescued him, and he's been with us ever since."

He turned and shouted, "Peter Pan! Wake up! There's someone who needs magic." A young boy of around 10, hidden by rocks, stood up, walked to Anna and bowed. His clothes were made of leafy material, and he was barefoot. "I've heard everything," Peter Pan said to her. "I heard you need some help remembering your sister's magic." "I don't remember seeing you here before," Anna questioned him. "There's a first time for everything," Peter said. "I stayed here to teach the trolls some new magic. Magic that they had no knowledge of." "But you're just a boy!" Anna gasped. "I'm older than I look," Peter grinned. He took out a vial from a pouch he carried with him and showed it to her. "If you drink this, all the memories of your sister's magic will gradually come back," he said with a menacing look in his eyes. "But I must warn you, all magic comes at a price." "And what's the price?" Anna fearfully asked. "Unfortunately, I can't give you the vial for free," said Peter. "I have needs of my own too. One day, and that day may never come, you'll owe me your service, and I'll own you."  Peter Pan's words terrified everyone who heard them.

"You really think your sister will never come back to you, don't you?" Peter menacingly said. "Let's make it a game. You can have the vial, and I will cancel the payment as long as your sister never comes back to you. Is that fair?" Anna looked at Peter worriedly for a minute, then grabbed the vial. Peter immediately grabbed the hand that held the vial. "There's a contract you must first sign," Peter grinned. He took out a piece of paper and a pen from his clothing and showed them to her. Anna signed it and gulped the contents of the vial down. Anna could feel memories of Elsa's magic slowly return to her. Peter smirked and said, "We have a deal then. I am not a cruel boy. I'll give you a few months of fun if your sister comes back to you. You'll know how much time you have left when the figures on that contract begin counting down. When the figures reach zero, you're mine. And don't even think of running off, or I will gut your entire family like fishes." 

In the present, across the sea, on THE THROWAWAY, Liz was in her quarters examining what she thought was the eternal dagger. She breathed on it, hoping to see frost form on it. No frost formed at all. A cry of anger quickly rang out throughout the ship. "Hans, you bastard!" screeched Liz. Liz quickly got on her feet and marched towards Merry's quarters. "Merry, you won't believe this!" shouted Liz. "We've been conned!" No one replied, not even after Liz knocked on the door. "Merry, if you don't open up by the count of three, I'm going to ram this door open! 1... 2... 3!" She rammed the door open and found no one there. All she found was a note that was pinned to a wall with a knife. The note read:

"Sorry, mum, but I can't stay here after you treated Hans and his companions so shamefully. Besides, I'm better suited to be on land, not sea. It might be fun to explore Arendelle and other kingdoms and see Hans and Gerda again. Ciao!"

"Damn you, Haaaaaaans!" screeched Liz, while Merry sailed across the sea towards Arendelle in a small boat. 

Chapter Text

“I’m still not sure it was wise for us to take Hans with us to see Elaine,” Elsa said to Gerda as they walked along the streets of Arendelle. “I understand,” Gerda replied. “I had a hard time trusting Hans when I first met him. But I can’t help but like the guy. He was willing to do anything for his nephew.” Elaine was Gerda’s mentor. She was a blacksmith who regularly worked at the palace. Elsa, Gerda, Hans, and Inger, were on their way to Elaine’s house. It was Elaine’s 51st birthday, and Gerda wanted there to be a birthday party at her house. They all carried with them sacks filled with food, drink, and party supplies such as balloons. “Hey, Hans, do you suppose you and I could go to the theatre together?” Inger excitedly asked him. Hans chuckled. “Maybe it’s better if you go there with your sister,” he replied.

As they walked, Hans began eying Elsa with an expression of remorse on his face. After minutes had passed, he said, “I heard you looked after Sitron while I was unable to look out for her. Thank you for that. I think she really enjoyed her time with me in Arendelle.” Elsa said nothing. “I’ve been meaning to apologize for my shameful actions towards you and your sister, all these years ago,” Hans continued. “Your apology is not accepted,” Elsa finally said. “I’ve had nightmares practically every day because of you. Do you think I want words?” “It’s not like I’m asking to be your friend,” Hans gruffly said.

Elaine’s smithery was located in the woods. Upon arriving there, Elsa knocked on the door. “What do you want?” Elaine’s voice rang out from behind the door. “Do you need me to forge a horseshoe?” The door opened, and Elaine looked at them. “Happy Birthday, Elaine!” everyone shouted. An expression of disapproval formed on Elaine’s face. “Gerda, my apprentice, I thought I told you not to bother me on my birthday!” scolded Elaine. “I had to,” explained Gerda. “I’ve already sent out invitations to your friends. They should be arriving here soon.” “You didn’t!” cried Elaine. “We have no time to waste. We must prepare for their arrival. May we come in?” Elaine nodded and opened the door wider. Hans was the last person to enter the building, and when he entered, Elaine eyed him fiercely. “Who is this?” said Elaine, turning to Gerda. “Oh, that’s just Hans,” she answered. “He’s from the Southern Isles like you.” “Thank you for reminding me,” Elaine sternly said. “Yes, he’s a Westergaard, isn’t he? One of the members of the royal family. There’s not a shred of good in any of them.”
“Surely that can’t be the case,” Hans cried. “At least Caleb and Lars have proven themselves to truly care about their family!” “So you say,” Elaine scoffed. “You know, I was living a peaceful life in the isles until someone like you drove me away.” A look of shock appeared in Hans’ eyes. “Elaine, I think we’d better get the party supplies ready,” Gerda suggested, trying to lighten the mood. “Your friends will be arriving soon.”

Before anyone moved, the sound of a gun cocking rang out. Everyone turned and saw three thieves enter the building. The door must not have been closed. The thieves wore crudely made wooden masks and all three of them pointed guns at them. “Don’t even think of using ice magic against us,” the ringleader of the thieves said. “Trust me, you’re not fast enough. Hand over everything of value to us. Food, drink, party supplies, and all your money as well.” Everyone reluctantly did as they were told. The thieves loaded the stolen items onto their horse-drawn carriage and drove away.
“Well, there goes our party,” Elaine quipped. “We might as well cancel it now.” “But what will we tell the guests?” inquired Gerda. “Tell them to go home,” demanded Elaine. “There’s nothing for them here.” “But we can still buy more party supplies, can’t we?” questioned Gerda.
“Don’t trouble yourself. Right now, we have no money. And even if we did, it would take hours for us to buy the things we need for the party. We may not have time to buy the things we need before the day is over!”
Just then, the party guests arrived. One of them included Olina, who was the palace cook. She was around 60 years of age. “Why so glum?” Olina asked Elaine. “Did I miss something? And do you have anything for the party?”
“You wouldn’t believe what’s just happened. You see, there’s been a robbery…”

Once Elaine finished explaining things, Olina frowned. “Oh, that’s too bad,” Olina said. All the other guests said the same. One by one, they left. “No…no… you don’t have to leave yet,” Gerda tried to argue. “We might not have any food or decorations, but we can still have a lot of fun here. How about we play a game of chess?” But her words fell on deaf ears.
“Now that everyone else is gone, it’s time for all of you to go too,” Elaine said to Gerda and the others. This time, Gerda didn’t even try to argue with Elaine. She and the others began walking out of the house. Inger was the last to leave. Turning her head, she saw some sawdust on the doormat. “There’s some sawdust on the doormat,” Inger pointed out. “I think I might know where the thieves have gone too. I think they’re hiding at the old abandoned sawmill not far from here. Let’s confront them and get our supplies back!” A smile crossed Hans and Gerda’s face. “Elsa, are you in?” Gerda asked. “Yes, let’s put these thieves back in their place!” Elsa beamed. Elsa and Gerda went to look for the thieves, while Hans took Inger aside. “I think Elaine’s going to need some new party guests,” Hans told Inger. “Do you have anyone in mind?” Inger asked.
“I’ve got a faint idea, but since I’m new here, I’ll need your help.”

Meanwhile, Gerda and Elsa had just arrived outside the sawmill. Outside the sawmill was the thieves carriage, and it was still filled with the goods the thieves had stolen. Looking through one of the windows, they could see two of the thieves talking to each other. Fortunately, their hands were empty. They weren’t holding any guns. Suddenly, one of the thieves turned and saw them. “Spies!” he yelled. Without a moment’s hesitation, Elsa flicked her wrist, and spikes of ice formed all around thieves like a cage. “Let us go,” one of them shouted. But Elsa paid no heed to their cries. “You know, I’m not able to do what you did,” Gerda admitted. “I can freeze liquids like water. I can cause frost to form, but that’s about all.”

“Maybe you just need more practice. Or maybe my powers are just different from yours. By the way, we only saw two bandits here. Where's the third one?”

An ominous shadow appeared on the ground. “Behind you!” screeched Gerda, pointing at the roof of the sawmill. The last thief leapt off the roof with a knife, aiming to tackle Elsa to the ground and slit her throat. But Elsa dodged his attack, grabbed hold of his face, and encased his face in ice. He collapsed to the ground, barely conscious. “Grrrrr!” he growled. 

Back at Elaine’s house, there came a knock at the door. “Go away,” she scowled. But the knocking continued. Finally, she opened the door. Outside stood Hans, Inger, and a dozen others. These were people who had fallen on tough times. These included the poor, the lame, and the blind. “I couldn’t get any of your friends to celebrate your birthday with you,” Hans admitted. “These were all I could find.” “But the thieves have taken everything!” sobbed Elaine. “I have nothing to give them. Not even bread!” “That’s quite alright,” one of the visitors said. “Your company is what we want. And maybe a bit of water.” With that, Elaine made the visitors feel right at home even though she had nothing but water and a chessboard to give them. But you wouldn’t know it if you’d been there, for everyone there acted as though they were having a lavish feast.

Soon Elsa began to drive the carriage to Elaine’s house. “Look, Aunt Elsa!” pointed out Gerda pointed out. “Her house is right ahead! We’ll be able to return Elaine’s belongings!” Crack! The ropes connecting the carriage to the horses broke, causing the carriage to roll down the hill. “Gerda!” screamed Elsa, grabbing hold of her niece. The two of them held onto each other tightly and leaped off the carriage. The two managed to get off the carriage in a nick of time, for the carriage continued to roll down the hill until it fell off the edge of a cliff. There was a river at the cliff’s bottom. The carriage fell into it and was washed away. “No!” sobbed Gerda, tearing up and holding Elsa tightly. “This isn’t the worst that could have happened,” Elsa said. “We could have easily fallen in with the carriage. Let’s go back to Elaine’s house!”

Upon returning, Gerda and Elsa were greatly surprised at how much fun Elaine seemed to be having with her new visitors. They talked, drank water, and played chess. For in the company of new friends, the plainest of activities can seem priceless. “We managed to catch the thieves, but we lost your belongings,” Gerda explained. “Think no more of it,” chuckled Elaine. “How did you like birthday party?” Hans asked Elaine. “It’s probably the best party I’ve ever hosted,” she proclaimed.
“I did my best. I never expected things to turn out nearly so well. I thought my idea to invite these people was a stupid one.”
“But don’t think you’ll earn my forgiveness through your actions today,” Elaine whispered. “You were the one who burned down my smithery at the Southern Isles all these years age, weren’t you?” Hans froze, and then nodded. “I did what I did because my father ordered it, and I wanted to impress him,” Hans confessed. “But that’s no excuse for my shameful actions. I apologize and beg your forgiveness.”
“Maybe I will someday, but not now.”

In the palace, Anna met with a visitor from the Southern Isles. "I'm here for my brother," said King Leon of the Southern Isles, who was sitting on a sofa. "It's time he was punished for his actions." "What will you give me if I hand Hans over to you?" asked Queen Anna. "I've already done a lot to appease you, have I not?" replied Leon. "The Southern Isles used to engage in slavery. Not so anymore. When will my actions ever be rewarded?" The temptation was strong in Anna's eyes. "I'm tempted, but I cannot let you apprehend Hans," Anna replied. "I promised my sister he could stay." Leon growled.

Later, at night, when the Arendelle library was empty, Liz and her men, which included Gibbons, Crowley, James, and Finn, stood outside it. Liz took out a hairpin and picked the lock of the front door of the library. “What’s the sense of robbing a library?” grumbled Gibbons. “Libraries don’t make much money. Let’s go back to sea!” “Not anytime soon,” rebuffed Liz. “Not until I get my revenge on Hans.” The group opened the registers of the library and found very little money. Gibbons opened one of them and found a very familiar compass inside. “Now where have I seen this compass before?” Gibbons said, lost in thought.

An expression of terror formed on his face. “Never mind!” Gibbons cried. “Let’s get rid of this thing. It’s brought us nothing but trouble.” Gibbons was about to toss it in a nearby trash can when Liz snatched it from his fingers. “Not so fast, Gibbons,” rebuked Liz. “This is Lars compass. Does it work?” “It worked too well, if you ask me,” replied Gibbons. “I don’t know how the compass got here, but let’s destroy it so no one else will ever sail to that cursed land.” “Patience, Gibbons, you never know if Hans might want it back,” said Liz, giving Gibbons a bag filled with the compass and other stolen items. "You and Crowley go back to the ship and guard it. Place this bag in the ship's hold." "Aye, aye, Captain!" said Gibbons, saluting his captain. Gibbons took the bag and ran over to the ship with Crowley. They both had mischievous looks on their faces. "Let's sail away from here with the loot!" suggested Crowley. They raised the sails and sailed away.

Chapter Text

On the second night of Christmas, Kristoff, Kai, and Gerda, went caroling with some of the palace staff. “Don’t say out too long!” Queen Anna had told her. Some of the palace servants had gone to bed early, while Hans was still working in the palace. Olina the palace cook was close to the front door of the palace when she heard knocking. Upon opening the door, she saw a bunch of 12 children dressed in cheaply made costumes.

“I’m Sylvia,” one of them said. “Could you let us in so we can show Queen Anna that play we’ve been working on?” “I’ll go get her!” replied Olina. Olina quickly closed the door and went to the library, where Anna, Elsa, and Inger, were playing a game of charades. Anna was the one miming. She placed a comb over her lip. “Is it our grandfather?” Elsa asked. “No, it’s the Duke of Weaseltown!” Anna jokingly replied. “You know, it was really unclear, even for someone like me who knows all about your life story,” remarked Inger.

Olina quickly knocked on the door of the library. “Whoever it is, come on!” Anna cheerfully cried. Olina opened the door. “Queen Anna, here are a dozen children outside,” she reported. “They want to go into the palace to perform a play for you.” “What are we waiting for?” Anna excitedly said. “Send them into the library.”

The children were quickly ushered into the library where they would perform the play. Queen Anna invited all of the palace staff to watch it. That included Hans. The story the children presented was a familiar one. It was the story of the birth of John the Baptist, the birth of Jesus, shepherds, and King Herod’s massacre of the innocent children.

Once the play was finished, everyone gave the children a round of applause. Anna looked at Hans with a stern and suspicious look on her face and ordered, “Go and guard the door of the palace to see if we have any more visitors!” Hans reluctantly did as he was told. Once Hans left the library, Anna became all cheerful again and said, “Olina, get the children some refreshments like hot chocolate and mince pies!” In no time at all, Olina served the children some refreshments.

Meanwhile, Hans was sitting by the front door of the palace when he heard knocking. Upon opening the door, he saw a bunch of 6 children carrying songbooks in their hands. “What do we have here?” Hans asked them. Then, without saying anything, the children burst into song.

“O holy night, the stars are brightly shining;
It is the night of the dear Savior’s birth.”

Once the song was finished, Hans gave them a standing ovation. “We’re from the orphanage that borders Vesterland,” one of them said. “May we go inside to see the Queen?” “I’m sorry, but Queen Anna is busy attending to guests,” Hans replied. With that, he closed the door. Soon after this, Anna dismissed her guests and sent them away with a few presents. She turned and said something unexpected to Hans. “I heard some singers singing outside the palace,” she said. “I thought their singing was quite good. Where are they now?”

“I’m afraid they left, Queen Anna,” Hans answered. “You see, you were busy attending to the guests, so I dismissed them.” A disappointed frown formed on her face. “Do you know where they’re from?” Anna asked.

“They told me they came from an orphanage that bordered Vesterland.”

“Then that’s where we’re going! Get me food and drink, and a few horses too! Our orphaned friends deserve better.”

Hans soon came to realize that Anna wasn’t kidding when she said those words. All these items were quickly prepared. Anna got two horses and one reindeer ready. The reindeer’s name was Bae. In the stables, Inger helped prepare Bae’s harness. Just as Inger was about to seek off to bed, Anna took her aside. “And where do you think you’re going?” Anna asked her, sternly placing her hands on her waist.

“Mum, it’s past my bedtime! I’ve got to go to sleep!”

“Not yet. We have work to do. You know, you were never good at charitable giving. Remember that time when you trod on those loaves you were supposed to give to charity? You could learn a thing or two by coming with us.”

“Fine, but I’ll only come if Hans comes too.”

“Wait, what! Have you lost your mind?”

Hans heard this because he happened to be in the stables helping them get the horses ready. Hans had a soft spot for horses. “Hans can come if Inger wants him to,” Elsa timidly said. A lustful smile formed on Inger’s face. Anna sighed. “Very well,” she sighed. “Why don’t you and Inger return to the palace to get something to eat? I’ll join you there later.” Once Inger and Elsa left, Anna suddenly became far more serious. “Listen, Hans! Any funny business and losing your life will be the least of your worries.” Sweat formed on Hans face.

Anna, Elsa, Inger, and Hans, took out bags of food and drink, placed them on their steeds, and set off towards the orphanage. On the way, Inger and Hans kept on complaining about the weather. Inger complained about the weather the most. Hans was used to dangerous weather, having spent many years at sea. Soon they came to a rope bridge. Anyone who fell off that bridge would surely die. “Hans should cross first,” said Anna with a mischievous expression on her face. “But surely I-” Elsa began. But Anna cut her off. “I know what I’m doing, sis,” she said.

Hans swallowed hard. Slowly, he rode his horse towards the bridge. Upon stepping onto the bridge, his horse shook in fear and ran back to solid ground. Hans, however, fell off his horse and grabbed onto one of the ropes. He was struggling to hold on. “Help me, please!” he begged. “Hans, there’s nothing we can do,” Anna shouted. “We have no more rope to pull you up with!” Elsa, on the other hand, untied one of the ropes that sealed one of the bags. She threw it over to Hans, and everyone helped pull Hans up. “Looks like we’ll have to go back to the palace,” Inger cried. “It’s too dangerous to continue. We’ll never be able to cross that bridge.”

“She’s right,” Hans gasped. “Then I’ll have to build a better bridge,” Elsa said. With a flick of her wrist, a nice strong bridge formed, connecting one side of the ravine with the other. Elsa immediately rode her horse forward and crossed it. “Careful that you don’t slip!” she yelled.

They continued on. “Grrr!” came a loud roar. Everyone turned and saw it was a brown bear. That bear quickly began chasing after them. When it was meters away, Hans took out a pistol and fired a shot at it. The sound of the pistol was so frightening; it caused the bear to run off. Unfortunately, this was the least of their worries. Everyone then heard a loud sound like something falling. “Avalanche!” Elsa cried, pointing at snow that was sliding towards them. “Get behind me!”

Everyone got behind Elsa, as she raised her hands and created an icy wall-like structure that shielded them from the snow. Fortunately, no one was harmed. “Hans, all you do is endanger our lives,” complained Anna. “Sometimes I wonder why I put up with you. And you shouldn’t have brought a pistol with you. You probably shouldn’t even be trusted with it. Give it to me!” Hans reluctantly gave his pistol to Anna.

As they carried on, Hans and Inger grew increasingly wary of their journey. Soon they reached the entrance of a tunnel that led through the mountain. “Once we exit that tunnel, we’ll be able to arrive at our destination,” said Anna. Inger and Hans had misgivings about the whole thing. “I’m sick of all this traveling,” complained Inger. “You always say we’ll be there soon. I’m going home!” “I’m with her!” said Hans, pointing at Inger. “Inger, I suppose you should get some sleep,” replied Anna. “Very well, you’re both dismissed. Elsa and I will carry the supplies to the orphanage.” Hans and Inger set off at once towards the palace. An expression of guilt formed on Hans’ face.

Elsa and Anna entered the tunnel carrying lanterns to light the way. They hadn’t gone far when a loud noise rang out. Anna turned and saw Elsa lying unconscious on the ground. Someone had knocked her out from behind using a rock. “Well, well, well, what do we have here?” said a mysterious woman. Two of her henchmen stepped out of the shadows. One was fat and the other was skinny. The woman was Liz, and her henchmen were Finn and James. Finn was the fat one. James was the skinny one. Liz pointed a crossbow at Anna. “What are in those sacks?” Liz asked Anna. “Just some food and drink,” she replied. “That’s good, I could use some refreshments,” said Liz. Liz looked at Anna suspiciously. “I remember you from the last time I was in Arendelle,” she said. “You’re the Queen, aren’t you?”

“I’m afraid you’re mistaken.”

“Don’t give me that. I know you’re the Queen. You’ll make a good hostage. I just have a few questions I need to ask you. Where is Hans Westergaard? Where is your daughter Gerda?”

But Anna kept silent. “We’ll have to do this the hard way then,” threatened Liz. She pointed her crossbow at Anna’s right leg. “Where is Gerda?” she asked. “I have some unfinished business with her.” “You still have time to walk away from this,” Anna yelled. “Release me and my sister, or face the consequences!” “If you don’t give me any answers by the count of three, you’ll be one leg short,” warned Liz. “1…2…” “Please, you don’t have to do this!” begged Anna.

“…3…”

Liz was about to pull the trigger when…

“Nooo!” a familiar voice cried out. Someone leapt out of the shadows and grabbed Liz by the arm which was holding the crossbow. It was Hans! In the struggle, Liz accidentally fired a crossbow bolt at the roof of the tunnel.

Crack! The bolt struck an icy spike, causing it to slowly break. It fell and was about to hit Elsa, when Hans pushed her out of the way. It managed to damage Hans clothing. Miraculously, it avoided piercing him. Hans panted in relief. “Just the person I wanted to see,” said Liz, pulling out a sword and pointing it at him. “Hello, Liz, looking for shelter?” Hans nervously asked.

“I want your life!”

“Come on, Liz, you never wanted to kill me the last time we met. What changed?”

“You, your nephew, and Gerda, destroyed my family. My daughter was so ashamed of me for kicking you off the ship that she doesn’t speak to me anymore.”

“Where is she now?”

“She left. I don’t know where she is now. Now, Hans, any final words?”

Hans kept silent as sweat poured down his face. Liz raised her sword…

But then, magic ice struck the sword, causing it to shatter. Elsa had regained consciousness! Quickly, structures of ice began to rise out of the ground, pinning the three bandits to a wall. Some of the ice almost pierced Liz’s neck. Liz would have died had Hans not intervened. “Elsa, you don’t want blood on your hands,” he said, placing a hand on her shoulder. “It never leaves you.” Elsa’s cheeks turned red and she stopped using her magic on the bandits.

Elsa freed the bandits from their icy prison, while Anna pointed a pistol at them. Once everyone made their way out the other side of the tunnel, Elsa said to the bandits, “Get out of my sight. I haven’t the time to lock you up in a cell. But cross my path again and I won’t hold back.” The bandits quickly fled out of sight. “I hope you can all find peace and join me in Arendelle,” Hans muttered to himself. “I’m surprised you came back, Hans,” said Elsa sternly. “I’m a little surprised by that myself,” he replied.

Chapter Text

The three continued on their journey. Soon enough, they arrived at the orphanage. Anna stood at the door, excitement flashing with excitement. "I haven't felt this excited going on an adventure since we snuck out to look for the Ahtohallan when we were kids, thinking we'd be able to find the secret behind your magic," Anna remarked to Elsa. Elsa looked at Anna, completely astonished. "I thought you couldn't remember my magic!" gasped Elsa. "Grand Pabbie sealed these memories away!" "His magic was undone," replied Anna. "I knew he could find a way to bring your memories back," said Elsa.

"... yeah ..."

Anna knocked on the door.

“Who is it?” asked a voice from behind the door. The voice came from a woman in her late 30's. Her name was Emma, and she was the leader of the orphanage. 

“It’s Queen Anna, and I’ve got some food and drink for the children. Can you let us in?”

The doorkeeper let them in relatively quickly. The company were surprised to find Kristoff, Gerda, and Kai, inside the orphanage. 

Soon, everyone, including all the children ate and drank to their hearts content. There was stuff like hot chocolate, hot cider, Christmas puddings, turkeys, and mince pies. While everyone was eating, Hans looked out the window and saw a bearded old man with his grandchild. They were both gathering firewood. He opened the door and shouted, “Come in, my fine fellows, and have some refreshments. There’s plenty for everyone!” The old man and his granddaughter quickly joined everyone in the orphanage.

While this was going on, Liz, James, and Finn took shelter in another cave for warmth. "Captain Liz, let's go back to the ship," begged Finn. "We'll go when the snowstorm dies down," responded Liz. Just then, the group heard the sound of someone shouting, "Mum! Aunt Elsa! Where are you? I've changed my mind. I want to come with you." The group looked out the mouth of the cave and saw Inger riding on her horse. "Captain, shall we take her hostage?" asked James. Liz looked ahead, her eyes uncertain. "Let her go, for now," answered Liz. "It's because of Hans that I'm still alive right now. I'll get my revenge on Hans after the Christmas season is over." Not long after she said those words, she saw another traveler in the distance. "Let's rob her," ordered Liz. Within moments, Liz and her gang ganged up on the traveler and tied her up. They took all her money. "Stop! Thieves! Help me!" shouted the traveler. The traveler was Elaine. "What shall we do with her?" asked James. "Let her go," answered Liz. "We've already taken her money." After she'd said those words, the grim voice of a young boy within the cave said, "Sorry, but that's not in the cards for you. I have a schedule, you know." “Who are you and how did you get here?” growled Liz. “I'm Peter Pan,” replied Peter, walking out of the shadows. "I have some unfinished business with Hans, and this traveler might prove useful. Let's make a deal, shall we? I know that none of you people are fond of Hans."   

Inger later burst through the door of the orphanage. "Inger!" Hans, Elsa, and Anna shouted. "I thought you'd returned to the palace!" cried Anna. "I couldn't leave you," replied Inger.

Not long after this, there came another knock on the door. Elaine the blacksmith entered it. "Princess Gerda! Queen Elsa!" smiled Elaine when she saw them. Elaine’s face fell when she saw Hans. “Oh, it’s you,” she said, clearly disappointed. "I probably caroled further than I should have," Elaine said, explaining what she was doing here. Elaine glared at Hans. “Don’t be cross, Elaine,” said Elsa, placing her hand on Elaine’s shoulder. “Hans was a great help to us. We wouldn’t have been able to make it here if it weren’t for his act of heroism.” "Once again, he's the hero who saves Arendelle from destruction, isn't he?" sneered Elaine. "What did he do this time?" "He saved me and Elsa from a group of madmen who attacked us," said Anna. "Were Elsa's powers not enough to protect you?" questioned Elaine. "The enemy caught us by surprise," answered Elsa. "Just out of curiosity, have you considered the possibility that Hans may have staged his act of heroism?" scoffed Elaine. Anna and Elsa looked at each other. "Just be aware that if anything happens to either one of you, it's probably Hans fault."

And they all sat down beside the fire. One of the orphan children asked Hans, “Hans, is it true you were once a pirate?” Hans thought for a moment, then said, “Yes, loosely speaking. None of my crew members thought I was much of a pirate, though.” Emma sat down next to the company, smiling, and said, "I heard that both Hans and Elaine are from the Southern Isles. My parents were from the Southern Isles, but I was born at sea. Can any of you tell me how the Southern Isles is doing right now?" "I wouldn't know, and I don't think Elaine does either," responded Hans. "Neither of us have set foot there in quite some time." 

Anna took a moment to step aside from the group to look at Peter's contract. The figures on the contract, which were counting down, revealed she had only less than a day left. “Mom, drop what you’re doing and come and join us in singing a few Christmas carols for the orphans!” Gerda rang out. “Coming!” replied Anna, running to the company and putting the contract back in its place. Hans, however, sat apart from everyone else. “Uncle, come and sing with us,” shouted Kai. Hans nervously looked towards the company. “I’m not sure I’m welcome,” he replied. “Hans, you’re practically family now,” Gerda called out. The cheeks on Hans face turned red, and he got up and sat next to the company.

Quickly, they all began to sing. The song went like this. 

“On Christmas night all Christians sing
To hear the news the angels bring.”

Once everyone finished singing, Emma looked out the window and saw the snowstorm getting stronger. "The storm's only getting stronger," she said to the company. "I insist you stay for the night." Queen Anna looked at Emma and sternly said, "Emma, you don't have to do this!" "Please, your majesty, I insist!" replied Emma. So it was agreed the company would spend the night at Emma's orphanage. Anna and Elsa shared a room together, so did Gerda and Inger. Hans, Kristoff, and Kai, were forced into the same room, while Elaine got her own room. In Hans, Kristoff, and Kai's room, Kristoff said to Hans, "I've got a feeling Anna hasn't forgiven me for my refusal to help her get her sister back. She hasn't been spending nearly as much time with me lately." "You sure she hasn't forgiven you?" Hans said, slightly surprised. "Maybe she's spending less time with you because she needs to spend more time with her sister. It has been quite a long time since she's seen her." "Hans, I know she hasn't forgiven me," Kristoff insisted. "We don't even sleep in the same room anymore. Can you help me make things right?"

"What do you want me to do?" Hans said, shaking his head and chuckling. “It’s not like Anna is especially fond of what I have to say.” “But you convinced her to let you stay in Arendelle with your nephew to work as a servant,” argued Kristoff. “That’s got to count for something.” Hans shook his head, saying, “I wouldn’t exactly say it was I who convinced her. Gerda and Kai did most of the convincing. They wouldn’t have shut up if Anna hadn’t let me stay.” Kristoff sighed in despair and scratched his beard.

“Kristoff, just do what you can to earn Anna’s trust if only out of a desire to repent,” advised Hans, looking at Kai, who nodded. “That’s what my nephew would say. He’s always been wise beyond his years. Kristoff, when I helped Gerda free Elsa from Ahtohallon, I didn’t do it because I expected to be legally pardoned by Queen Anna. I did it because I hoped Queen Anna would be impressed enough by my actions to let Kai stay in Arendelle and give him an easy life. I never wanted Kai to stay at sea forever. Luckily, she legally pardoned me and let me stay here with Kai. The point being, sometimes the unexpected can happen.” “Thank you, Hans!” said a grateful Kristoff. “I’ll keep your words in mind.”

Meanwhile, there came a tapping on the window outside Elaine’s room. She opened her eyes and got up from the bed in shock. “It’s time to fulfil your end of the deal,” came the voice of Peter Pan.

FIN