#phptpu

Chapter Six

THUD!

“Again.”

I groaned as I picked my body off the ground. I wiped the small hairs from my sweaty forehead. My feet planted to the ground, I lifted my sore arms once more, and threw two punches. Chase blocked the first one but the second jab hit his side.

“Better. Now, let’s try those blocks I taught you.”

I nodded. I held up my arms as he charged towards me. One, two, and the third blow hit my shoulder. I waited for him to knock me over but he backed off. Instead, Chase walked behind me.

“Position your arms here. Remember, you have to stay firm.”

“Okay.” His hands remained on my arms. “…you back away now.”

He pulled away, “Sorry. I forgot about your personal space.”

I rolled my eyes, “Can I practice on the dummy now? Unless you’d like to take its place?”

He shook his head and dragged it over to me. I started to practice hitting the firm material.

“How long has it been now? A month?” he suddenly asked.

“A month since when?”

“Since we’ve started.”

“In a few days, I think.”

“Okay, we’ve been training for a couple times a week for at least a month. I feel like you still haven’t warmed up to me.”

“I’m not here to make friends.”

“I can see that. More force in the elbow.”

I followed his instructions. Chase stopped talking so only my hits against the dummy filled the room. When I took a break, he handed me my water bottle.

“Thanks.”

“No problem.”

I sighed, “Look, I’m sorry if I come off rude or distant. I am really thankful for the time you’re taking to train me. Friends are the last thing on m my mind right now. I want to focus on my training and get through it.”

“I didn’t know being a Traveler was so important to you.”

“More than you realize...” I shook my head, “Still, thanks for everything”

Chase shrugged, “It’s no big. I’m just used to really chatty trainees. Some would never shut up. But ever since we’ve been working together, I realized how silent it’s been. You’re pretty professional.”

“Me? No, I can talk a person’s ear off but like you said, this is going to take a few years. I’m hoping dedication will make the time go by a little faster.”

“I admire your spunk. Let’s see if you can last.”

“Oh, I’ll last. And I’ll master everything.”

“Fine,” he moved from the wall, “let’s see if you can finally take me down.”

“I didn’t say now but sure. I don’t want to pass the chance to kick your butt.”

We positioned ourselves a few feet apart. I took my stance. Alright, you got this. This time you have to win. A golden shimmer from my clenched fist caught my eye but I ignored it. I had to keep focus on my opponent. He taunted me. I took the bait and shot forward.  A new confidence bubbled inside me as I threw my punches. They zipped through the air but held powerful hit at the same time. Quick and precise, he hardly had a chance to block my hits before I kicked him from the side. This time, Chase fell to the ground.

He stared up at me in complete disbelief. I’m sure I shared the same expression. How in the hell did I do just do that? I saw the shimmer again from my open palm and quickly clenched it close. Our last fight left me in exhaustion but this time I felt like I just took a brisk walk in the freaking park! I attacked like I was an expert but it’s only been a few weeks…

“Excellent! That was simply excellent!”

I spun around to find James at the doorway. He approached us and clasped his hands over mine.

“Alexis, you are fighting impressively! I can see my son is teaching you well.”

“Son? Wait, you’re Chase’s dad?”

“He didn’t tell you?”

Chase rose from the floor, “It never came up.”

“Yes, we don’t really talk much. Lots of instruction and little conversation but you would think you can mention you’re the son of the Leader of all Travelers,” I rambled as I shot a glare at Chase. Then I flashed a smile, “Well, it’s nice to see you sir.”

“Nice to see you as well,” James chuckled.

“Is there something you needed?” Chase asked.

“I wanted to talk to you. Alexis, you mind if I cut this session short? After all, it seems you’re learning quite fast.”

“No, it’s no problem.” I hurried to grab bag and water bottle.

“A guard is prepared to take you home when you’re ready,” James informed.

“I guess I’ll see you in two days,” Chase waved.

“Right, two days. Goodbye Chase. Goodbye Jam- sir, uh, bye.”

I rushed out the door and my carried me off in a random direction. An uneasy feeling made my heart pound. Why? Why did his presence make me act strange? It wasn’t his high status. I’ve been around plenty of royal figures. Heck, my girlfriend is a Queen! But James… something was wrong. Although it felt nothing like- like- that man who almost killed me. I didn’t feel in danger, just overly cautious.

Listen to your senses. Be wary and keep your guard up…

A shiver ran up my spine. The voice sounded like a whisper so near. A ghost of breath brushed against my ear. I hadn’t realized I stopped until I looked up. A faded portrait of a man stared back at my face. His eyes seemed to stare into mine. The beat of my racing heart picked up speed, I don’t understand.

In time-

A shriek escaped my lips as I felt a touch on my shoulder. I spun to face a startled guard.

“I’m sorry! I did not mean-“

“No, no! I just- I’m fine,” I weakly protested.

“Are you ready to leave?”

“Yes.” I glanced back at the portrait, “The sooner, the better.”

~~~~~

James heard the door click. He circled around his son before finally speaking.

"She's learning fast."

"Yeah, I guess she is," Chase agreed.

"How long has she been fighting like that?"

"That was the first time. I haven't even taught her a combination like that."

"Did you notice anything unusual before that?"

"No we were just talking."

"I see."

James began to pace. Chase noticed this trait his father did while in deep thought. He watched him, "I still don't understand why you're keeping such a close eye on her. She seems normal."

"Don't they all?” James smirked, “It's just a precaution. She might not even know her importance."

"Importance?"

"I'm referring to a certain situation."

"And Alexis is tied to this certain situation?"

"She may or may not be. After further investigating, I'll be able to tell."

"I can help a lot better if you would just tell me," Chase muttered. Always talking in riddles, I hate it.

"You're not ready."

"Ready? What exactly do I need to be ready for? This is so ridiculous!"

"Ridiculous!"

James stepped forward to close the space between them. His hazel eyes burned into his son's face. A grim cold look took over his features. The slight glance at his father made Chase almost cower away from him. The boy forced his head down in attempt to escape the powerful glare. He listened to his father’s sharp words.

"You have no idea how important this is for me. For you. I've been working too hard to lose it all now. What I still search in you is trust and the ability to know that if I share my plans, you'll keep them safe. Do you understand?" Chase nodded. "Good. Now what is your job?"

"I have to train the girl. Watch her carefully and I must report anything out of the ordinary."

"Yes." James gripped his shoulder, "You are my son and I want to share my victory with you. But I need to know you're capable. Do not disappoint me."

Chapter Five

 “I want them positioned here and here,” Elsa instructed as she marked the map with frost.

“I will have guards there stationed this evening.”

“Perfect. I also want a few eyes watching the men. I want to trust our guards but temptation can get the best of good people. Some could be assisting the theft of the missing goods. If any suspicious activity is seen, I want it reported. I want Arendelle to trust their authority.”

The Captain of the Guards nodded, “Understood Your Majesty.”

“Thank you, now I need-” she stopped at the hard knock on the door. I don’t remember meeting with anyone else today. “Come in!”

The open door revealed Haavard, “I apologize, Your Majesty. I did not know you had company.”

“You are forgiven. Captain Leonard and I were just about to finish.” Elsa turned her attention back to the Captain, “Deliver this to town. These are the plans for refurbishment.”

“I will. Good day, Queen Elsa,” he bowed and left.

Haavard slipped past the Captain to reach her desk.

“You’re very busy I can see.”

“I have many public services to attend to since everything is at ease. International affairs are going smoothly so it’s time to tackle small problems within the kingdom.  Now, what is it you need of me?”

“Have you seen the messages you have received?”

“I’ve read them yes.”

“Then you know some kingdoms are still insistent on sending their suitors.”

“Yes, and I denied their request.”

“Do you think that is a wise decision?”

“Haavard, as much as you do not like to acknowledge it, I have chosen a suitor.”

“Yet, Alexis has left the Kingdom, correct?”

Elsa exhaled sharply as she placed her document down. She had actually forgotten about that for the past few weeks. Her work for improvement was to benefit Arendelle but also served as a distraction.

“Yes, she has.”

“How long before she returns?”

“That is unknown.”

“Then, my Queen, we must face the fact your… chosen suitor is gone. This can invalidate your courtship.”

“Excuse me?” Her fingertips sparked with frost, “I do not remember you having the authority over my courtships.”

“Your Majesty, please hear my concerns.”

“I’m starting to doubt if I want to,” she responded dryly.

He sighed, “I already feared what might happen once others heard about your relationship. The announcement of your courtship was never official. The situation is unknown to other kingdoms and they will continue to send their suitors for your hand.”

“Then an official announcement shall be made-“

 “No, I advise you not to speak of your romantic involvements with Alexis,” he protested

Elsa clenched her glowing fist tighter, “And then what? Shall I have these men believe they have a chance? It would be a waste of time for both of us. I refuse to be married off to some stranger!”

“Queen Elsa, please! Things would be different if she remained in Arendelle!”

“What do you mean?”

“It’s one thing to tell about others about this relationship when she is here to support you. But how do you think other monarchs will react when you deny their suitors because you’re courting a woman that you are unable produce?”

Elsa rubbed her temples, “I can only imagine the anger and betrayal they will claim. I’ll be seen as a Queen who refuses to perform her duties and uses excuses to avoid it.”

“You and I both know Arendelle can't afford to lose any resources if your allies disapprove."

"I understand. I know..." She grasped her arm rest. Jagged ice appeared on contact, "This all too much to handle. I just lost her. I'm still dealing with that. I can't focus my attention on this courtship conflict. At this moment, my kingdom needs me."

"Then what do you propose we do?"

"I suppose we can send word that I am not searching for King Consort until Arendelle’s affairs are handled."

"Then that message will be delivered.”

“Thank you,” she nodded. Elsa shuffled through the documents on her desk but Haavard remained. “Is there something else?”

“May I suggest an idea?"

"If you must," she muttered.

"I did have this set to the side but I believe we can use it to our advantage. Some may not to wait but I can give an incentive for their patience. What about a ball to search for a suitor? We'll invite all the eligible-"

"You can't be serious."

Haavard shrugged, "Why not? You don't have to marry one on the spot. At least it seems like you're looking so no will suspect a thing. You can happily wait for Alexis to return while only using a few moments to entertain guests."

"That… actually isn't a bad idea. I suppose I can make arrangements."

"Excellent. Then, I bid you a farewell, Queen Elsa."

She watched him walk away but something stuck her as odd.

"Haavard, why are you helping us?"

His hand remained on the door handle, "Maybe I'm being hopeful."

"For what?"

"I wonder if you’re going to marry Alexis, if- when she returns."

"I- we- it hasn't b-been discussed," Elsa flustered.

"Then there is still a chance to find someone you do want to marry."

His smirk was the last thing she saw before the door clicked behind him. She had been left in shock by his words. She fought the urge to crush the papers in her hand.

How dare he even suggest - Elsa cried out in frustration throwing the documents down. Was this all a ploy? Was this nothing more than an attempt to have her fall for someone else? Or worse, doubt her relationship. Snow didn’t fall but hail down on the brewing Queen. The cold wind whipped at her hair. Does he really think some prince could waltz in and replace Alexis? I should remove him from my council and refuse this damn ball!

Crackling snapped her out of her angry thoughts. Startled by large storm, Elsa took in deep breaths. The winds calmed and she waved one hand to make it all disappear. She had to keep her composure and not make rash decisions. Still, Haavard hung on the edge. It didn’t matter how long he had served anymore. Any more moves against her ruling, Elsa would have him removed quickly.

 Although she didn’t want the ball, it might be a wise move to follow. One night couldn’t hurt. All Elsa had to do was smile and listen…

Elsa heaved another side as she tried to clear the mess on her desk. She could handle that situation later. Arendelle needed to remain her main focus even with all the unnecessary stress.  She then placed her head in her hands.

Chapter Four

Do you remember your first day of school ever? The one your parents prepared you so eagerly for. They smiled down at you and watched you take a big step in your life. I relived that moment once again as my mom and dad hurried me to get ready for my first day of training. I dressed in comfortable exercise wear approved by my mother. They offered comforting words as they told me everything would be fine and this was a big moment. One they never thought they see. Still, they were proud of my decision. Hugs and kisses were shared and then I began my way downstairs.

"Oh sweetie, hold on," my mother called.

I turned back to see Dad closing the closet doors and handing something to my mother. She approached me and offered the golden pendant to me.

"You're going to need one of these so I might as well pass down mine."

"Thanks," I smiled. I traced the design with my finger. I found a small scratch which probably happened when I threw it. I put it on and resumed my way down.

My parents followed me down to the living room where the man waited. When he saw me, he simply offered his hand. Usually, you don't take the strange man's hand, but in this case, I had no choice. I accepted his hand and looked back at my parents. They were beaming with pride.

"Have a nice day sweetie," my mother waved.

"We can't wait to hear about it when you get back," my father added.

"Bye," I waved back. This was the first step of my new adventure. With a pounding heart, I felt a rush of energy pass through me, the bright light flashed once again, and there I stood in what I learned was called, the Traveler's Center. I stepped away from my guide as I admired the place in awe.

The great hall dazzled with brilliant lights of a golden glow. The hallways had dozens of doors. Voices and noises filled the air from all of the people who rushed through the area. Some dressed in white uniforms, others looked like guards, and the rest all wore a similar uniform of a structured black bodysuit. They looked like the ones I found at home, except these people had weapons and other materials hanging off a belt or hidden in vests and jackets. Some had cloaks draped over their shoulders.

I had not seen this area during my last visit so I took my time to admire the architecture and people. I glanced up to see a dome roof with the Traveler's symbol: the spiral with the star in the middle. It shimmered almost as if it was a light. I felt a tap on my shoulder and I turned back to my guide.

"We should keep moving," he instructed.

"Oh right."

He strode off in a different direction and I tried to keep up with his quick steps. He led me down a hallway to a door he opened. Mats covered the floor, fighting dummies in different corners, and a few portraits on the wall. I stepped inside.

“Your trainer will meet you here soon.”

“Thank-” the door clicked closed, “you…”

Well, that was a little rude. Good thing he’s not my trainer. I decided to take a look around while I waited. I stared at the pictures of the men and women dressed. Some dressed in armor but as the generations passed, the clothing made a slow transition to the uniforms I saw outside. I stopped at a picture of a man in the center of the room. He looked familiar… Did I see another picture on the way in?

The door creaked. A voice followed, “Hello?”

I faced the doorway to see a young man, “Oh, hello.”

“Are you Alexis?”

“Yeah that’s me.”

“Cool, nice to meet you. I’m Chase,” he greeted and walked over.

“Nice to meet you too,” I shook his hand. “I’m really relieved I’m not alone.”

“Alone?”

“I mean, I didn’t want to start this training alone. I’m just really nervous and it’s nice I have someone else to work with.”

Chase smiled, “Sorry to break the bad news but you are training alone.”

“What? So you’re not another trainee?”

“Nope.”

My eyes widened, “Wait! You’re my-?”

“Yup.”

“This is a joke, right?” I laughed. He frowned at me. I took a step back, “This has to be a mistake.”

“Look, there is no mistake. I’m your trainer.”

He moved around the room and began pulling a dummy over. I watched him carefully. Tall, hazel eyes, dark auburn hair, and all together good looking, but why the hell does every person look so familiar in this damn place? I know I’ve never met him.  Also he was young which made me nervous.

“Um… how old are you?”

“Twenty-one. Do you have any more questions?”

“Yes…” I rocked on my feet, “Without being rude, is there any way I can get someone who is older. Maybe someone who has more experience?”

“Wow, you are really bad at first impressions. Do you make everyone hate you when they meet you?”

I sighed, “Sorry, I’m just surprised. I expected a… wise elder to show me the way of the Travelers.”

Chase rolled his eyes, “You watch way too many movies. I assure you I am qualified to teach you.”

“What’s that suppose to mean?” I cried.

“It means you need to back up a bit and listen,” Chase glared at me with his arms crossed. “How many years have you been training? Oh yeah, none. Unlike you, I have been training and learning here since I was sixteen. That is five years over you. Not to mention, I was the best trainee in my sessions, passed the final test within two and a half years, and now I’m allowed to go on high classified missions alone.” He stepped up to me so we were face to face, “Still think I’m not qualified to teach you?”

My eyes dropped to the floor as my cheeks flamed red.

“Good. Now if you’re done with your ignorant questions, I would like to get started.”

Chase continued to move the dummy until it was between us. He gave it a pat.

"This will be your best friend for the next few months. We are going to start on your physical training. First you'll build up your muscle and I'll start teaching you hand-to-hand combat combinations and techniques."

I nodded, "Okay. Before we move on, can I ask one more question?"

"Which is?" He eyed me cautiously.

"When do I learn how to move from realm to realm?"

 “That's a long way from now."

"Like, how long exactly?"

Chase shrugged, "It all depends on you.”

“What does that mean?”

“There are many stages you have to get through before that happens. Once you complete the physical, we move on to weaponry. You're educated in different types of weapons and then pick your specialty. Then there are a few lessons in dealing with magic.”

“Our magic?” I asked hopefully.

 “No, more like spells or items you might encounter. When all of that is done, you are tested by the Council to prove you have mastered all your skills. If they approve, you finally learn how to Travel and start your missions."

"Are you serious? That's going to take forever! How does anyone get that all done?"

"Well it's not like there's a deadline or something. You finish it on your own time so it can take a couple of years."

"Is there any way I can get this done in like a year? A year and a half tops?"

Chase threw his back in laughter. I frowned, well, that answers my question.

"You- you can't be serious!" He wiped his eyes, "Even you, who have been granted private one-on-one lessons, couldn't do that. Unless you're some kind of master, there is no way."

"Private lessons? Why do I have private lessons?"

"I don't know. The Council decided you deserved some special treatment and wanted you to have your own trainer. Usually trainees work in groups."

"Lucky me. Well... since I'm so special, maybe you can hook me up and teach me how to Travel first."

"Nice try. I don't want to be responsible for your next disappearance. They just found you"

I blushed again, "You know about that?"

"Who doesn't know about that? You are the first Traveler in history to use their powers without prior knowledge of their heritage and then get stuck in a world because they can't use them properly. This is why we teach it last. So, we don't have newbies getting lost in other worlds, which you manage to actually accomplish."

“You’re making it seem like I did it on purpose,” I grumbled.

“Purposely or not, let’s just hope it doesn’t happen again,” he said. “Now for the love of god, can we please get started? No more questions.”

I opened my mouth and he pointed at me.

“No! It’s time for your lesson!”

I groaned and crossed my arms.

“Anyways, have you ever had experience in defensive fighting?”

I shrugged, “I took tae kwon do when I was younger. I did maybe a year and half.”

“Eh, it’s a start,” Chase responded. He stepped a few feet away from me, “Come at me.”

“What!”

“Just defend yourself against me. Throw a punch or kick. Let’s see what you got.”

“Don’t get mad if I hurt you.”

He smirked, “Cocky. Don’t worry, I can handle myself.”

“Okay,” I rolled my shoulders and ran over to him. From the glint in his eye, I knew I was in trouble but I tried any way. I aimed a right hook but he immediately blocked it pushing me back. I stumbled surprised by his strength and Chase used the opportunity to sweep at my legs. Next thing I know, my side hits the ground with a hard smack. I hiss at stinging pain from the mats. Two feet appear in front of me and I look up at him.

“Your stance is weak. You focus too much on strength than a decisive blow,” His eyes snapped over me, “We have a lot of work to do. Give me twenty push-ups.”

 I groaned as I turned over. His loud counts rang in my ears once I began.

Chapter Three

Stretched lazily across my bed, I stared at the ceiling. A week and a few days agonizingly passed by and still no word from the Travelers. Maybe they forgot about me? It's hard to believe since there was a big fuss about my return. Even James seemed so certain that I would start my training soon.

I sighed. Being home wasn't that much better. Uncle Roy left and my parents tried to give me space. We hardly talked besides the small chit chat or the questions of how are you doing or feel like doing anything. I did my best to answer truthfully but how do I tell them I feel like crap and all I want to do is lay in my sweat pants. I knew they wanted to discuss my future and how everything was going to change. I wasn't ready for that talk just yet. The good news? My tears stopped, but it didn't stop the troubled sleep or the depressed feeling inside my body. I don't want to worry them. I don't want to be a lazy bum or a whiny baby. Yet, I had little will power to fight these feelings.

The door bell chimed throughout the house. Who's at the door this early? I heard the faint click of the door and my mother's soft voice. A mumble of words exchanged between mom and another person. Almost sounded like a disagreement. Suddenly, a pound of footsteps hit the ground from the living room to up the stairs. I shot upright and looked at my closed door. At least, it remained closed before it flew open with urgency. A young man stood at the doorway.

"You bitch. You drop off the face of the earth for seven months, stop answering any of my messages or calls, and then I learn you returned out of the blue, yet I don't get a phone call or even what’s up? What the hell is wrong with you?"

"Nice to see you too, Alex."

Yes, the famous best friend who I've known since fourth grade. He became my brother in a sense. It's scary that he shares enough similar features with me that he is mistaken as my brother despite having brown hair and being a shade darker than I am. I bet it's the brown eyes or the fact that we're Mexican because everyone assumes we are all related.

He stormed over to my bed, "Oh no. No, nice to see you, bull. Do you know how freaked out I was? I almost called the police but you parents said that they were handling it. Then they start isolating themselves so I'm at home thinking the worst. Did you even check your phone? Did you see the messages I left?"

"Yes."

"Liar. I bet you didn't look."

"Yes, I did! I looked and heard all of them. You can check my phone," I argued.

That was the truth. After my phone charged, it blew up with texts and voice mails. The majority were from Alex as he urged me to call him. The desperation in his voice grew over a few weeks which broke my heart. The other messages consisted of other acquaintances asking if I was okay but that stopped with one or two calls. Then I received many phone calls from my boss as he threatened to fire me if I didn't show up soon. So the inevitable happened. I lost my job.

"So if you did see them, then why didn't you answer? Was it so hard to text I'm alive?" Alex insisted.

"I'm sorry, okay! I didn't mean for this happen. I didn't have my phone when I left so I barely saw them. Really, I didn't mean to give you a panic attack but I just didn't want to talk. These past few months have been... complicated."

"Complicated? Well, what happened?"

"I can't exactly say," I answered slowly.

"Like you don't remember?"

"No I do remember but..."

"But what?" Alex snapped clearly frustrated, "We are best friends. You can tell me anything."

"You wouldn't understand."

"I can't understand if you don't tell me."

I dropped my head wondering how in the hell I am going to explain this story. I heard him sigh and I looked up to see him plop in my computer chair. He wheeled himself over and stared at me.

Alex softly spoke, "Look, if something bad happened-"

"Nothing bad happened."

"Then... can you please tell me? Convince me that you weren't kidnapped and tortured for the past seven months."

"It's a long story," I said.

He stole a pillow and tucked it behind him, "I got time."

"Okay.” I drew in a breath, "Do you remember that closet at the end of the hall?"

"The mysterious one that I tried to break into but you said it was wrong?"

"Yes, and I broke into it."

"Oh, it looks like I'm rubbing off on you."

I shoved him, "Oh shush! Anyways, I used the key and... You’re not going to believe what I found."

~

Alex remained slumped in his chair with a blank face. He blinked slowly.

"So yeah.... that's what happened," I drawled. He didn't respond. I waved my hand in his face, "Earth to Alex! Hello? Did your brain explode?"

He sat up straight abruptly scaring the crap out of me. He leaned forward.

"So let me get this straight. You are a person who can travel to other dimensions."

"A Traveler."

Alex waved me off, "Yeah, whatever. You're a Traveler and you visit worlds that we see in movies and stuff. So, you accidentally landed in Arendelle because you used the secret powers hidden from you. After that, you started a forbidden lesbian relationship with the powerful Snow Queen until your parents tragically tore you apart. Am I right?"

"The dramatic version I suppose," I smirked. I did leave out the voice in my head, which has remained silent during this conversation.

"Okay, so what are you going to now?"

"Wait," I raised a brow, "That's it? You're going to believe me. Aren't you surprised at all?"

"Oh you want dramatics?"Alex stood and cleared his throat, "LIES! SO MANY LIES YOU TELL! How can I call you my best friend when you deny me the truth? Traveler? You continue with your excuses-"

I smacked him with a pillow, "Be quiet! I get it! Stop yelling!"

He laughed at me as he grabbed the pillow and threw it back at me.

"You're such an ass!"

"The one and only," Alex bowed. I rolled my eyes. He sat back down, "Okay, I'm serious now. You made a promise to your beloved. How are you going to keep it?"

"Well, I have to train to be a Traveler which I have no idea what that involves. Once I'm in control of these powers, I'll head back to Arendelle."

"When does that start?"

"Who knows? They said they'll send someone but seriously, I've been sitting on my butt for days and still nothing. I really want to get this over with but at this rate, I'll never get anything done."

"Uh..."

"What?"

Alex pointed at my hand. I looked down to find a shimmer of light even though my hand was faced down. I turned it over and exposed the golden mark.

"You could have mentioned the glowing thing," Alex pointed out.

"It slipped my mind."

"Alexis! Can you come down?"

We both turned to the direction of my mother's far off voice. Alex gave me a questioning look and I just shrugged. We hurried down the stairs and entered the living room. My parents stood next to each other while a man stood in front of them with his back to us. He turned.

"Alexis?"

"Yes?"

He eyes landed on Alex, "Who is this?"

"He's my friend," I answered.

"I think it's best if he left."

"No problem buddy. I'm gone," Alex waved.

I walked him to the door, "I'll talk to you later."

"Are you sure you're safe?" he whispered.

"I hope. I promise I'll call when I can."

"Hey, what do I tell people if they ask about you?"

"Um... vacation. I went to Norway and tried to find myself. Now I'm back. Got it? Okay, bye."

I shoved him out the door and closed it. I took a deep breath and returned to the living room. I gulped as the man's gaze returned back to me.

"What do need me for?" I asked.

Chapter Two

She didn’t dare close her eyes. She stared right into those dark brown irises until she became blinded by the flash of light. Only then she shut them close. When they opened, Alexis was gone.

Elsa inhaled sharply not prepared for the sudden emotions that may hit her. Her fist clenched at her sides. A gentle hand reached out and uncurled her hand.

“It’s okay. We’re right here,” Anna comforted.

Elsa nodded and squeezed her sister’s hand ready to release her despair…

But she couldn’t. Partly she preferred not to break down in the middle of the woods or in front of anyone else but she wanted to feel something. What scared her was that she couldn’t find the ability. She just couldn’t, at least, not now. Another deep breath, she pulled away from Anna and walked to Midnight. She gave the gentle creature a pet on his nose.

“We should head back to the castle,” Elsa ordered.

Anna watched her, “Elsa, are you sure?”

“I rather not have anybody worry about us. Let’s go.”

She lifted herself on Midnight trying to ignore the murmurs behind her. She glanced at them, “Are you coming?”

Doubt clearly written on Anna’s face, she tried to protest but Kristoff led her to a horse.

“We’re going.”

Elsa nodded and began her way back to the castle.  Her thoughts were in a whirlwind as she tried to figure why she felt nothing. It should hurt. Alexis was gone. Her face would no longer be the first thing she saw in the morning. Years could pass before she felt that warm embrace again. A lump formed in her throat as ice coated the reins.

Elsa shook her head. No. She had to face facts. She had to get used to the idea that Alexis would be gone for a very long time. The sooner, the better. She clenched her grip on the reins removing the ice and kept her eyes forward.

For a few moments she tried to shut everything off but failed to notice the dwindling ice path trailing behind her horse. Anna didn’t. She stayed silent and followed the trail home.

~

Calm down. Stop. Just stop crying. I need- I need-

“I need her,” Elsa croaked.

Her strength only lasted three days.  She tried so hard to put up a strong front. Elsa kept reminding herself she cried her tears so it was time to be a strong Queen. She excused any questions about Alexis. She smiled and assured her sister that everything was fine. She did her best to stay out isolation or fall into her old habits. Everything seemed fine until this morning.

Gerda entered her study to ask if Alexis had indeed left. When Elsa reluctantly answered yes, Gerda suggested they clean out what wasn’t needed so it would be organized upon her return. Although she tried to stay away from that hallway, that room, she agreed to go. Just stepping inside, utter sorrow washed over her. Gerda gathered the clothing that needed washing but Elsa instructed that the clean items remain in the closet. As the maid tidied up around the room, Elsa touched the clothes hanging. Her fingers brushed over the material of one of Alexis’s favorite dresses. She curled it into her hands bringing it to her nose and inhaled the faint but familiar scent that lingered. It offered some comfort.

Gerda called her so she quickly released the dress and turned. A small notebook was in Gerda’s hand.

"I think you may want this."

Elsa raised an eyebrow but took the little book anyways. She opened a page and skimmed the first few lines. Her heart stopped. She’s read this once before.

I’m falling more and more each day. Embarrassing as it is, I can’t help but find her cold touch intoxicating. I want to hold her close just for one moment. Gosh, I feel lame just writing this down. I need to burn this.

Elsa laughed remembering the first time she read this. Sweet memories filled her mind but then the emptiness inside grew as well. In seconds, her smile turned into broken sobs. She couldn’t control the tears spilling down her face. Suddenly, Gerda gathered the young Queen into her arms trying her best to comfort the girl. It reminded Elsa of times before her coronation. After losing their parents, Gerda became the mother her and Anna needed during those bitter moments over the three years.

She hardly recalled how the older woman led her to her room but before she knew it, she was curled up in her bed clutching the notebook to her chest. A few comforting gestures, then Gerda left her alone.

The blonde sniffed. I was a fool to think I could keep it hidden. I made myself believe everything was fine. I lied to myself for too long.  She stared at the empty room. Frost started to spread from the floor like inky tendrils. Her tears spilled onto the bed freezing on contact.

A hesitant knock was heard. Elsa’s eyes shifted to the opening door. Anna’s head poked through the crack. It only took one look for Anna to barge herself in which proved difficult with the frosted door hinges. Elsa sat up allowing Anna to pull her into a tight embrace.

"Gerda told me," Anna said.

"I thought I could handle this, I was wrong," Elsa hushed returning the hug. 

"Yes, you can. You didn’t give yourself time to grieve."

"I miss her."

"I know. We all do but it’s must be especially hard for you," Anna slightly pulled away, "In the forest, I saw it in your face."

Her gaze dropped, “You did…”

"It hurts me when I see that. When you keep it in…"

"I wanted to be strong."

"There’s a difference. You have a right to feel sad and just… let out your emotions! Scream, cry, do anything. If you want to freeze something, freeze it! Well… as long you unfreeze it too."

Elsa laughed and Anna clapped.

"Look, there’s that smile."

"A real one, I promise you." She sighed, "I don’t how I’m going to last the upcoming, heaven forbid years without her.”

"It will be hard. I miss Kristoff terribly when he’s ice harvesting. I can’t really stop him. It’s his life as he likes to say."

"It’s an empty feeling."

"Yes, it is." Anna pointed to the book, "What’s that?"

"Oh, it’s a notebook. She used to write in it during her low points."

She dared to open it once again. A random page revealed the handwritten words. She traced each curve and loop with a finger. Finally, Elsa closed it once more.

"At least you have a little something of her."

Elsa nodded clutching it to her body again. It was a small reminder of Alexis if she ever missed her too much. Maybe that’s all she needed.

"How do you feel now?"

"A bit better but it still hurts."

"What do you want to do?"

"Lie down," Elsa crawled back into her bed.

Anna settled down next to her, “I believe the Queen deserves her rest for one day. More if you need it.”

They both stared at the ceiling as Elsa wondered if she needed more time. In her left hand, the notebook resided while her right hand touched the cold ruby stones of her bracelet.