Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

A boy around fifteen shivered in the cold air as he walked through a snow covered forest. He gritted his teeth and pulled his collar up in an attempt to block out the cold as he laughed to himself for letting it bother him.

He continued on until he got to a small cluster of bushes. Gently pushing them away he slipped through them and grimaced slightly as he stepped in a small puddle of melting slush.
Within minutes he came to a massive oak tree. He beamed at it and walked over to a rope that hung off a higher branch. Reaching up he wrapped his legs and arms around the soggy coarse cord and began to climb.

After a few painstaking minutes of trying not to slip, he made his way to the top of it, where a few wooden planks were nailed together to make a small platform.

On the platform he could see a poster of some rock band that was stapled into the tree, a small blue bean bag and a snow covered shag rug that was probably better fitted for a bathroom than a tree. On the other side of the wooden platform was only a rickety railing, the only thing offering any protection from falling onto the ground.

The boy walked over to the beanbag, dusted snow off it and sprawled out. Slipping his phone out of his pocket he began to scroll, his eyes glazing over as the time passed. A few minutes later a small breeze blew in, making him look up.

“Took you long enough.” he muttered before looking down again.

“Well I'm here now.” a voice answered.

The boy smiled and turned off his phone, slipping it into his pocket. “Hi Frost.”

“Hey Jamie.” a boy with messy white hair and grayish-blue eyes answered.

“Where you been, you were gonna be here twenty minutes ago.” Jamie asked, feigning annoyance.

The spirit gave a small laugh. “I got busy ok, I only now managed to sneak off.”

“Good job cause I have it.” Reaching into his pocket Jamie drew out a small box, a pen and a piece of paper.

“What are their names again?” Jamie carefully unfolded the paper, smoothing out the wrinkles as the spirit in front of him balanced on the railing. Jack paced the thin wood, keeping his balance in a way Jamie didn’t know was possible, swinging his staff causing frost to run down the wood.

Jack ran a hand through his hair in deep thought. Jamie felt a ping of sympathy run through him.

“Mary..I think. That was my sister…umm.” Jack’s balance faltered for a moment at the name and Jamie flinched as the wind steadied Jack from falling.

“Your mothers?”

“I…” Jack paused and swallowed. “I don’t know.” Jamie nodded trying to ignore the pain in Jack’s face at the statement.

“That’s okay, so I need to find a Mary overland.” Jamie nodded, scribbling the name down on the paper.

“What year did you say she was born?”

“I..I dunno, probably like 1704 or something.” Another scribble.

“You're old.” Jamie quickly looked away in order to not burst out laughing as Jack turned to him in surprise. Opening the box he withdrew two small glass vials.

Handing one to Jack he took the other. Taking great care to not drop it as it grew cold in his hand, he turned to the confused spirit.

“Great, now spit into it.”

Jack eyed the tube in suspicion as Jamie demonstrated.

After a few moments the spirit spat into it and twisted the cap back on. Placing the two sealed vials back into the box Jamie shoved it back in his pocket and sighed. Jack still didn’t seem satisfied.

“Well?” Jack didn’t answer, instead focusing on the strings of his hoodie to keep him preoccupied.

“So..um. If this ancestry thing works, you could maybe find out who they are?” Jack finally asked in a barely audible whisper.

They. Jamie frowned at this word. It seemed as if Jack couldn’t even bring himself to say their role.

“You mean your family, your sister? Your mother” Jack grimaced at the words but nodded.

“Yes. It should work” A weight seemed to lift off Jack’s shoulders and he finally smiled.

“Provided I didn’t screw it up.” Jamie added standing.

“You're smart, you have the internet, how could you screw it up?”

Truth was Jamie could very well screw this up.

In the last few years Jamie had known Jack, he had been horrified at the story of Jack’s life. Even though it had been years since Jack had first confessed it to him, the story of how he’d…well died, haunted Jamie.

So when given the opportunity to have an ancestry test for extra credit at school Jamie had jumped at the offer. It wasn’t like he couldn’t see the possibility of him and Jack being related even if it was through a very distant three hundred year gap.

So Jamie had agreed.

“What ya gonna do now?” Jamie asked, drawing the winter spirit's attention back to him.

“I don’t know.” Jack muttered once more. Jamie sighed and refrained from rolling his eyes. He wasn’t used to Jack being so anxious and jittery. It seemed to happen every time his sister was mentioned, Jack would go almost paralyzed.

Grabbing the rope Jamie threw his body over the edge of the wood and hung there.

“Well.. we have like a decent amount of snow. If you want to do something like that.” he called out as he began the slippery and quite frankly dangerous climb down. Reaching the bottom Jamie sighed in triumph
as his feet firmly hit the ground.

“I have an idea, just one sec okay.” Jack cried from the top of the tree. Jamie furrowed a brow at Jack’s words then screamed as his feet gave out from under him.

“No..” he muttered glaring at Jack who, now was hovering a few feet away smirking. Shrieking Jamie felt his body slide through the snow, darting across the icy path Jack made as he flew in front of the boy.

Scrambling to keep from rolling off the path, Jamie bit his lip to keep from laughing aloud at the sheer exhilaration and chaos of this ride. However the feeling quickly disappeared as he noticed the pond that laid
at the edge of the woods coming closer.

“Jack!” The spirit though had seen and Jamie knew it. Jack’s attention always sharpened when around that pond.

At the last moment Jamie felt his body catapult to the side and into a snowbank.

Snow shocked his body into focus and Jamie felt himself laughing as he clambered out of the bank wiping snow off his clothes.

“I-I thought your job..was to keep kids safe.” Jamie panted as Jack landed a few feet away.

“I didn’t scare you, I surprised you there's a difference.” Jack corrected, waving his staff. At this all the snow on Jamie was swept off by the wind.

Jamie opened his mouth to speak but was cut off by a vibrating in his pocket. Reaching into his jacket he pulled out his phone, only for the screen to light up and his mothers name to appear.

Opening her contact Jamie sent a quick text then turned to Jack. Giving a half smile Jamie sighed.

“I need to go, sorry.” Jack nodded and swung his staff over his shoulder.

“Yeah, go ahead. Have a good night.” Jamie nodded and broke off towards his house, his mother would kill him if he was late.

At the last moment Jamie turned and jogged backwards so he could see Jack.

“Let’s hope for a Mary!” he called loudly. Jamie didn’t hear a response but instead a large gust of wind sent him flying into the slush.

0o0o0

The sound of ice crack and a girl screaming jolted Jack awake. No sooner had the girl screamed his name, had his eyes flown open and she had vanished.

Laying in the dark Jack didn’t move. He had grown accustomed to these dreams so by now he didn’t wake up panting or jolt up as if he had been struck. Instead he just had a heavy weight on his chest and tears
threatening to spill out of his eyes.

The dream was always the same.

Mary and him on the ice. But instead of being able to save her Jack was always just a second to late, it would result in either him drowning again or Mary’s voice getting muffled as water swarmed down her throat.

Occasionally it would end in the both of them dying. The water overtaking them, tearing them apart as Jack felt his body thrash around in the murky darkness. Desperate to push his sister to the surface.

Slowly Jack let out a breath and turned to his side.

It would do no good to focus on the dream. Mary was dead anyways, in whatever way she died, Jack didn’t know.

Forcing himself to stand, Jack grabbed his staff and paced his room. It was quite a nice room, a small one tucked off in the north pole for him to stay in when he didn’t want to be in Burgess.

Something he had been doing quite a lot recently.

It wasn’t that he was opposed to Jamie’s idea of finding out if they were related, it was the idea of finding out who his family was.

Even though Jack had spent the better part of his immortal life alone, the one thing he was grateful for was he didn’t remember his family. Well it may sound terrible he was thankful he didn't have to watch them
grow old or die.

Not forced to see himself be erased from his family’s history as the years drew on.

But now the idea of them intrigued Jack.

The idea of seeing where they rested, what had happened to them after he had died. After all, it wasn't like he could see them any other way.

He wouldn’t grow old, he wouldn’t die from time.

Shaking his head Jack tried to banish the thought.

The other guardians didn’t go around wishing for their past lives, they made do with what and who they had.

Be grateful. A voice in his head scolded and Jack sighed. He knew he should be grateful he hadn’t died. That he got to have magic and see the world unfurl in more ways than anyone else could.

Closing his eyes Jack nodded. He could be grateful, he could be satisfied with the life he had. It didn’t matter what had happened, he didn’t need to know.

After all, it would only hurt him more.

Chapter Text

Jack awoke to a loud bang as the door hit the wall. Scrambling up Jack clamped down on his tongue to keep Mary’s name from escaping. So much for forgetting his dream.

Turning to the doorframe Jack watched as North stood, obviously surprised to see him. At the large man's feet several elves armed with dusters the size of them sat. One even held a dustpan that quickly caused them to tumble over.

“Hello..” North muttered after a moment. “I did not know you were here.”

“Hi.” Jack started in a panic, rushing to his feet. “Sorry. I just needed somewhere to stay..”

“It's fine my boy.” North said obviously trying to keep himself from speaking more. Bracing himself Jack could tell by the look in his friends eye he wasn’t done yet.

“Umm..why are you staying here?” North said after a moment as the elves began cleaning around Jack. One even dusted the top of his foot, causing Jack to resort to hovering in the air instead.

“I-no reason, it’s just it’s almost spring in-in Burgess…I’d rather be somewhere cold…ya know.” Jack lied lamely. At least it was a partial truth, he truly did hate the warmth and wet feeling that came with the snow melting and turning the grass to mud. To be true though he couldn’t bear being in the town his sister had lived in.

To walk the woods she had once. It felt like her presence was constantly over his shoulder. Watching him. Waiting for him to acknowledge her.

Pushing past North, Jack hurried to leave the room. Perhaps if he could put enough space between him and North, the older man would drop the topic. However his hopes were crushed when North grabbed his shoulder. Flinching Jack gripped his staff and forced his body to relax.

“Yeah?” he asked in what he hoped came across as a cheerful voice.

“You do not need to leave. In fact, we need you.”

“Excuse me?” Jack squeaked out in a quivering voice before his vision swam in gold. Before he could react he felt someone catch his body and a sleepy giggle escaped him. He felt as if his eyelids were being weighed down and his head felt fuzzy.

Reaching up, Jack barely had time to wipe a few stray grains of dreamland off his face before he drifted back to sleep.

0o0o0

“Jack.” Mary’s voice was pulling at him and Jack knew if he focused he would be standing on a pond of ice. However this time when he looked around he saw he was sprawled out in a forest, and instead of being stuck on the ice he was peacefully resting in a glade of snow.

Rising to his feet Jack adjusted the worn cloak around his shoulders and looked around the glade. The edges were surrounded by trees weighed down with snow and dead grass.

“Jack come home.” Mary’s voice was begging now and Jack turned to see a beaten down path had now appeared in front of him.

Move. Jack didn’t though. He couldn’t bring himself to. Standing there he could feel the snow melt into his boots and into the cheap stockings that were suddenly on his feet. The wind pushed into his back, seeming to encourage him to move, ruffling his shirt and hair every few moments.

Finally Jack took a step forward. Counting his steps he made to well past a hundred before he came across a small house next to a pond. The wood it was made of was breaking towards the bottom of it. (Jack reckoned a good snowfall would send it crashing in on itself. He hoped no one would be inside if it did.)

“Jack.” A different woman’s voice sounded from inside the house. Jack felt his body stiffen as he stepped away from the house. He didn’t want to be here anymore, he didn’t want to see the woman that would come through the door.

Silently Jack watched as a tall woman with short brown hair appeared in the doorframe. She was dressed in a long dark brown dress and torn white apron.

“Jack, look at me.” Her voice was soft and caring. It made Jack feel loved. Something that he realized he hadn’t felt in a long time.

It was a voice that brought him close to tears. Looking up Jack tried to meet her eye only for her to disappear. With a large breath Jack felt his eyes open.

Bolting upright Jack’s hand went to something hot and wet sliding down his cheek and heard rustling to his side. Turning Jack saw Tooth standing next to him, a hand extended on his shoulder. On his other side Sandy stood with a ball of dreamsand, with Bunny and North crowded behind him.

It didn’t take him long to put together what had happened.

“Jack.” Ignoring Tooth, Jack grabbed his staff and stormed out of the room.

“We had to know mate.” Bunny said as he hopped over to Jack attempting to block him in, only for Jack to freeze a clump of his fur.

“You..you had no right…” Jack said in a frenzy whirling around. Tears were still on his cheeks and Jack felt like he would burst down in tears if he thought of his dream a second more.

“We did, if you're having nightmares. Pitch..Pitch could be back…” Tooth began fluttering over. Her voice dropped as she continued to talk, as if she was realizing how weak her argument was.

“Then we should have had a conversation like normal people.” Jack fumed, jumping into the air.

“We just wanted to help..” Tooth said feebly as she hovered a few feet away, her feathers twitching in anticipation.

“And do what?”

Nobody spoke for a few moments then North cleared his throat.

“We’re sorry Jack but trust us we only wanted to make sure Pitch couldn’t hurt you. It’s clear you're afraid of something…you’re avoiding Burgess like it's the flu.”

“The saying is like the plague North!” Jack corrected “and, so what. There is obviously a reason I haven’t told you.”

The guardians flinched and Jack felt bad for almost a moment.

“Besides, maybe I don’t want you guys to see my memories. Maybe I wanna keep that part of myself to myself.”

“We just wanted to help-” North began. Turning to him Jack let out a loose laugh. One of spite.

“You wanna talk about backstories. Fine. How did you get the Mrs. Claus story…hmm? I always wondered that.” Jack snapped, propping a finger to his chin in pretend thought. North flustered and turned red.

“Jack!” Bunny snapped.

“See not fun is it?” Jack spat. By now little pieces of ice were gathering around him.

“Jack..” North began softly. Jack felt guilt worm in his stomach from the Mrs. Claus' statement, as he met North’s gaze. “Come with me.”

“No.” As guilty as he was, it was outweighed by his stubbornness. Waving his staff Jack felt the familiar embrace of a gust of wind as it lifted him into the air. He needed to get out of here. Out..somewhere.
Somewhere that didn’t involve the guardians or his sister.

“Mary.” Jack paused at his sister's name. “You said the name Mary, we saw the girl in your dream. Is she why you’re afraid?”

Jack tried to laugh it off. He truly did but instead he felt tears fall down his face.

“I am not afraid of some….some dead girl. One I barely even know.” he stammered, fighting to keep his voice steady.

Tooth nodded and fluttered over to Jack. Gently she wiped the tears off his face and pulled him into a hug.

“I understand..” she whispered as Jack stood there. “And I’m sorry, we didn’t mean to hurt you.”

“Jack…” North shifted from foot to foot as if unsure what he wanted. “Would you like to say…umm a proper goodbye to your sister?”

Jack paused, mouth agape but silent.

“What?” his voice came out hoarse and croaky.

“If I were to take you back to where your sister was buried would it help? Help bring you closure I mean?”

Prying Tooth’s arms off him Jack hesitated.

Did he really want to find the place his little sister was buried? Jack shook his head, no not his little sister. A grown woman who had a life. One he didn’t know. It wouldn’t be him saying goodbye to the eight year
old in his dreams. It would be him saying goodbye to a woman who hopefully had a long and fulfilling story.

“Yes..” the request came out in barely more than a whisper and Jack felt his chest constrict.

“Then stay, allow us to help you.”

Slowly Jack allowed the wind to lower him to the ground. At his next question small wisps of snow ran through the air around him.

“How..”
0o0o0

The north pole was always a bustle of activity. It was constantly in motion with the elves destroying the Yeti’s hard work and toy orders coming in quicker than anyone could respond.
But in the quiet of North’s office it certainly didn’t feel that way. Jack was seated at North’s desk, a mug of coca forced into his shaking hands.

A few feet away North rummaged through a box. From his spot Jack could see the shine of the magical snow globes North used. How they worked Jack wasn’t a hundred percent sure but they certainly had done
the trick in the past.

Letting out a cry of triumph North pulled out a small silver snow globe. The edges were decorated with some flower of sorts and behind the glass small white particles danced around.

“So!” North cried abruptly, turning to Jack. “this will take you to what you want.”

“Like a normal snowglobe?” Jack asked skeptically as he bounced the silver ball in his hand.

“No, no is special, made from father time. It takes you to what you really want.”

Jack grimaced at the idea.

“Okay…so do I have to be specific in what I say or?”

“No you don’t speak. It’ll do work, just throw it.”

Tightening his grip on the snowglobe Jack nodded. “Can I do it now?”

“Of course of course, I’ll let you be, I don't want to be distraction.” North assured, waving his hands through the air as if beckoning himself outside.

Jack closed his eyes listening to North footsteps retreat outside. The door closing with a click, blocking the hum of the workshop.

What did he want?

To say goodbye to my family. Jack finally settled upon. Simple enough.

Tightening his eyes Jack felt the smooth glass beneath his fingers. Inhaling sharply Jack lifted the ball.

He wanted to say goodbye to Mary. The ball slipped through his fingertips and Jack heard it thud against the floor followed by a woosh.

He wanted to be loved. Jack’s eyes opened as the thought flickered through his head. But it was too late, and too soon Jack felt himself being whisked into the snowglobes portal.

Chapter Text

The familiar whoosh of the portal closing jolted Jack to his senses. In fact it worked so well that in his haste to stand Jack fell a second time. Spitting sand out of his mouth Jack groaned.

A quick look over Jack saw the snowglobe and his staff nestled at his feet. Glancing around Jack could see nothing but trees. Trees and something else. Something blue and sparkly.

In the midst of the dark green and brown terrain this caught Jack’s eye and he found himself drawn to it. Approaching it Jack soon saw it was a small piece of cloth caught on a branch. Taking it in his hands Jack rubbed it between his fingers, smiling at the cool cloth and small sequin decorated like charms that overlaced the fabric. Undoing it from the branch Jack clenched it in his hand.

“Sir.” Jack turned at the sudden voice and saw a woman standing at the edge of the trees. Looking behind him Jack saw no one else.
This woman confused Jack though, she was well beyond the age of those that believed in Jack. Somewhere along the ages of twenty, with dark brown hair pulled back into a braid and dressed in a creamy-beige colored dress. A purple scarf draped across her shoulders.

“What are you doing here?” Jack then noticed a small staff hidden among her clothes. Was she magic? That could explain why she could see him.

“Who are you?” Jack finally asked, gripping his own staff, frost spreading along the wood. The woman’s brown eyes crinkled in anticipation, and she placed her hand on her staff.

“You first, why are you in my forest?”

“I’m sorry?” Jack forced his voice to stay as calm as possible. Sarcasm would do no good in this situation.

“You’re in my forest. Why?”

“I got lost.” Jack lied. The snowglobe was supposed to go to Burgess, right? That’s where his sister had been born, and his mother didn’t appear to be one to move around. Perhaps they had been buried there as well.

“Where’s the town?” Jack asked, reaching down for the snowglobe.

“What town?” The woman raised a skeptical brow and eyed Jack carefully as he gripped the snowglobe. Maybe he could make an escape before she could react, this was a bad idea after all.

“Burgess.”

“Never heard of it.” Lovely.

“Okay well um..I didn’t mean to intrude, I just needed to get home.”

“Honeymaren!” A woman’s voice called through the trees interrupting them and Jack could hear hoovesteps. The woman, Honeymaren, he assumed turned to the voice but eyed Jack.

As the hoovesteps got louder Jack felt his breath hitch. It wasn’t until small wisps of snow landed on his shoulder did Jack remember to suck in a breath.

The woman that rode into the glade did very little to help Jack’s state though. In fact Jack could feel his face flush and his throat go dry, not helping manners.

She looks like snow. Was the first thought that managed to register through Jack’s mind as the woman got off her horse. It was true the woman’s barely blonde, mostly white hair and white dress made her stand out in the trees. Like the first dusting of snow in autumn.

“Who is this?” Jack watched as the woman flicked her hand and the horse she was riding leaped and then seemed to disappear into the air.

“I don’t know. He’s lost, and doesn’t talk much.” Honeymaren scoffed, crossing her arms as she rolled her eyes at Jack.

“You asked why I was here, I answered what else would you like me to say?” Jack asked, flinging his hands in the air. “You're some random stranger I don’t know, what do you want a sob story on why I’m alone in the woods?”

Honeymaren scoffed again.

“Well, why are you alone in the woods?” the other woman asked gently, clasping her hands in front of her. Jack felt his face flush again as he glanced at her. Clearing his throat he forced himself to look at the trees behind her, he feared he’d lose the ability to speak if he looked directly at her.

“I’m lost.” he finally repeated again, gentler this time.

“Says he’s going to Burgess..whatever that place is.” Honeymaren said with a wave of her hand and turned to the other woman.

“Where is that?” the snowy woman asked.

“Pennsylvania.” Jack stammered.

“What?” This time the woman sounded genuinely concerned and confused.

“Pennsylvania, in America. I’m looking for Burgess.” Jack repeated running a hand through his hair.

“I’m sorry, but are you feeling unwell?” the woman asked, wringing her hands together.

“No why..”

“You’re not in America sir. In fact you're in Norway.” Jack blanched and nodded slowly.

“What the hell do you mean?” He asked after a moment. Honeymaren looked surprised at his language and the other woman blushed.

“You’re in Norway..in Europe and the nearest town is Arendelle sir.”

“Arendelle…what is that? I don’t recall hearing of it before.”

In hushed whispers Jack watched as the snowy woman spoke to Honeymaren, ignoring his question.

“Is anyone else with you?” Jack snapped back into focus as the blonde turned to him expectantly.

“No.”

“Would you like to come with us? There's a Northuldra camp nearby. It’ll be somewhere to stay for the night at least.”

“I-I’ll be fine.” A large gust of wind shoved Jack forward and towards the woman. As if in protest of his words.

“Gale!” Jack looked up expecting another person to appear but the snowy woman seemed to be speaking to the air. And in response the wind gathered a few stray leaves from the ground, allowing it to take as much of a physical form as it could.

“Who’s gale?” The woman looked up at Jack and stammered for a moment.

“Um..well, a friend of mine I suppose.” The snowy woman answered, clenching her hands together in embarrassment.

“Do you mean the wind?” Jack answered quickly, wincing internally at the distressed look on her face. As if she was weary of giving him an answer. As if he wouldn’t believe her. “I should have figured, with…the
name pun or something.”

“Yes.” Her face relaxed and Jack felt a small wave of relief go over him.

“I didn’t know the wind had a name.” the woman smiled softly with a nod and Jack fought to not beam back.

“Yes, now back to business, are you coming or not.” Jack barely refrained from rolling his eyes as Honeymaren butted back into the conversation.

“I insist, you can figure out what to do in the morning, after a night of sleep and food.” the snowy woman added, placing a hand on Honeymarens shoulder. Reaching up Honeymaren placed her hand over hers but
remained glaring at Jack.

“In that case..”

The snowy woman nodded and Honeymaren seemed to be biting back a groan.

“Well, come on then. Yelena will want us back by nightfall. The giants will come out by then.”

Jack was too busy walking over to the two women he barely registered the giant's comment.

“Really? What else comes out at night, gnomes perhaps? Fairies?” Jack asked with a smirk as the blonde woman began to walk into the trees.

Jack immediately regretted his choice of words though as the snowy woman looked mildly offended.

“Excuse me?” she asked after a moment, her voice slightly harder.

“I-I mean no disrespect, I…just never seen a giant sorry..” Jack could hear Honeymaren chuckle behind him and he played with the idea of turning and freezing her stupid bangs to her forehead.

Deciding against the idea Jack instead fiddled with his staff following after the woman in front of him.

“What’s your name?” he finally blurted as silence stretched on.

“Hone-”

“Not you Honeymaren.” Jack ignored Honeymarens glare as the other woman turned around. She seemed slightly amused but seemed to be fighting to show it. Something deep inside Jack yearned for her mask to
break, to see the smile that had previously almost escaped.

“Elsa, and you?”

The question nearly made Jack stumble. He couldn’t remember the last time he had been asked that. Damn that made him sound egotistical. He had just grown so accustomed to everyone going
Oh Jack frost! Look, it's a magical flying snow spirit! Who wouldn’t recognize him! He’s a fairytale!

“Jack, or well Jackson.” Jack cringed at his full name. He hated it and was surprised when it came out.

“Nice to meet you Jack.”

“It is.” Jack whispered. Oh shit that sounded bad. “I mean it’s nice to meet you as well.” he amended. Elsa smirked slightly, amused and embarrassed on his behalf it appeared.

Continuing on Jack watched as Elsa traversed the forest floor with a stunning ease, considering she was in a full gown. Tearing his eyes off her, Jack instead focused on the forest in front of him. It was full of birch trees and ferns. The white and black speckled wood took up most of the space but in the distance Jack could hear a creek trickling by.

Too soon Jack could smell smoke, tinted with meat in the air and could make out small huts between the trees. As they came closer an older woman came over. Her thick gray hair was done in a sort of half braid and she had a similar outfit to Honeymaren on.

“Elsa, there you are. Where are the giants going tonight? We need to make sure they know not to come down to the camp tonight.”

“They’re going to the other side of the gorge tonight, Yelena.” Elsa answered. She seemed more at ease in the camp and Jack caught several people turning to her in pride.

“And where will he be staying?” Jack turned as Yelena stared at him with a glare even worse than Honeymarens. Under her gray eyed gaze Jack felt as if he was being scolded for something he didn’t do.

“I-I can go anywhere.” Jack said with what he hoped was a passable smile.

“Good cause you’re staying with Ryder.” At this Yelena turned her attention to Honeymaren and the two of them walked off. Presumably to the man that stood next to a herd of reindeer waving wildly to them.

“Would you like something to eat?” Jack turned to Elsa but nodded. Stepping aside he watched as she went over to a campfire and grabbed a wooden bowl. Ladling something into it she walked over a log next to a few other women.

Following her Jack stared down at the boiling pot. It smelled of herbs and meat and frankly appetizing. Grabbing a bowl Jack suddenly felt eyes on him. It wasn’t until he had grabbed his meal he realized people were watching him. Not as if he’d messed up but more a general observation. A subconscious recognition he was there.

Glancing over at Elsa, Jack ignored the pull to go sit with her. He was a stranger and it would be rude to interject. Shaking his head Jack instead went over to the edge of the camp. From there he could see everything but didn’t have to be in the center of it all.

As he sipped his broth Jack could see Yelena, Honeymaren and the man talking. At one point Honeymaren gestured to him and Jack shrank back. Elsa was engaged in conversation with a group of young women,
smiling fondly as several small children ran past.

“Hey, you're the guy Elsa brought right?” Jack nearly choked on his soup as a man appeared next to him. Wiping at his mouth Jack fought back the urge to cough uncontrollably but managed to nod.

“Well I’m Ryder you’ll be staying with me for the night.” Jack nodded again.

“J-Jack.” Jack finally managed panting for air.

“Nice to meet you, hope you don’t mind sharing with me, and the herd.”

“Herd?” Jack suddenly envisioned what he supposed would be the equivalent of a crazy cat lady.

Instead though Ryder gestured to a few bellowing reindeer that stood tied up on the other side of the camp. Jack darted his eyes to the deer then to Ryder.

“Okay..” Be polite Jack flinched as his mother’s voice danced in his head. “Thank you.” he quickly added.

“Of course.” Sitting down Ryder began to ramble about something but Jack didn’t listen as a flash caught his eye. Amidst the dancing shadows of the campfire Jack caught a familiar light. The light of something
bouncing off ice.

To his surprise the light came from Elsa as the group of children crowded around her. Jack watched as Elsa conjured her hands together and at her feet a small flock of baby deer appeared.

Jack watched as the fawns, made of ice and frost, bounded around allowing the children to chase them a few feet before bursting into a small flurry of snow.

“Pretty great, right.” Ryder asked, bumping shoulders with Jack. Ignoring the unwanted touch Jack stared open mouthed at Elsa. She was laughing softly and Jack felt his face heat up as the edges of her blue eyes
crinkled in joy.

Jack nodded and watched as the children repeated the game several more times. Eventually though it grew dark and as Jack knew, when it was dark it seemed to be parental nature to end whatever game the
children had started.

“I’m gonna go get the reindeer water for the night, I’ll find you when I’m done and we can go.” Ryder said standing before brushing himself off.

“Yeah…yeah go..” Jack, though, continued to watch as Elsa also stood. Flushing Jack quickly looked away. Standing Jack quickly grabbed his bowl and walked over.

Elsa placed her bowl in a small tub of water and Jack did the same. Catching his reflection in the water Elsa turned in surprise.

Taking a step back Jack smiled weakly.

“How are you feeling?” Elsa asked, a small smile playing on her face.

“Good, you?”

“Well.”

“Good.” An awkward silence stretched between them and Jack kicked himself for coming over.

“You’ve met with Ryder?” Elsa asked, pulling at her knuckles.

“Yeah..yeah I did.” Do you also sleep with a herd of deer? Ignoring the unspoken question Jack scratched the back of his neck.

“How did you do that?” he finally asked. “The magic..deer.”

Elsa smiled a hint of mischief in it.

“It’s part of the forest’s charm.” Jack didn’t really understand that answer but nodded as if he did.

“It was very…nice..” Jack wanted to stab himself for that choice of words. “Very nice to do it for the children,” he added. That worked.

“Yes.”

Silence again.

“Tomorrow I’m headed to Arendelle. Would you like to come? If you need a town, it's about a day's journey. If you feel well enough.”

“Yes I would…thank you.”

“Good, now I’m going to bed. Sleep well Jack.” Much to his surprise though Elsa began to walk into the forest, away from the huts and campfires.

“Where are you going?” Jack couldn’t help but ask.

“I have my own cottage, a little ways away.” She explained and turned away waving a hand absentmindedly into the trees.

Don’t ask anything about her house he scolded himself silently. Jack nodded instead and turned away as well.

Much to his discomfort Ryder came back over.

“Cmon..Yelena wants us to hurry before it gets too dark.” Jack nodded and walked back over to where they had been seated for dinner. Grabbing his staff and snowglobe Jack followed Ryder.

The dark haired man led Jack over to a small hut and pushed open a door. Inside was a small bed, trunk and bucket filled with water.

Leaning his staff against the wall Jack ignored Ryder as the man prepared for bed.

As Ryder slipped into bed Jack slid against the wall to the floor. Outside the thin wooden walls Jack could hear several reindeer grunting and bellowing in the dark.

So.

Norway, Arendelle.

Not to mention it certainly didn’t appear to be the same century Jack had left. That last bit didn’t surprise Jack though, going back in time was the least surprising thing about North’s snowglobes.

However the Norway part did surprise Jack. How had his sister, the one born and raised (for at least when he was alive) in America. The one from a family so poor they had to live in a run down shack, somehow make it to another country?

Jack had indeed asked for his family. He was sure of it.

Closing his eyes Jack nodded. Yes he’d thought of Mary and then-

Jack’s eyes flew open as he remembered the intrusive thought that had worked in at the last second.

To be loved.

“Shit.” Ryder groaned sleepily from the bed at Jack’s voice but quickly fell back asleep.

He wasn’t in America. He hadn’t asked for that, he had asked for a stupid intrusive thought instead!

Running a hand through his hair Jack laughed in spite. So now he was with a gorgeous magical girl in a foreign country in a kingdom he’d never heard of. Lovely.

Just lovely.

Chapter Text

Jack woke up to a boot hitting his face. Eyes opening Jack saw Ryder struggling to put the other boot on, a sheepish look on his face.

“Sorry..uh feel free to take the bed I just need to get up for the reindeer. I need to move them to grazing…go back to sleep its early.” Amidst his rambling Ryder managed to get both boots on and halfway out the door.

Rubbing his jaw where the boot had hit Jack blinked heavily trying to register the hut he was in. Where was he?

“Jack.” The spirit expected to hear his sister's voice but instead a different voice called his name.

“Jack.” the voice repeated slightly louder this time. Leaning against the wall Jack closed his eyes. He didn’t want to deal with this hut and people throwing things at him anymore.

Just as he let out a breath of relief though something wet and firm hit his cheek. Jolting upward Jack brushed snow off his cheek and looked up to see a woman lurking in the doorframe.

The sleep now properly out of his eyes he looked around properly. Besides the woman no one else was here.

Who was she again?

Oh yeah.

“Elsa.” The woman nodded at Jack and stepped inside.

“Yes. Sorry to wake you, however I believe it's best if we go now, it’ll speed up the journey.” Jack barely caught her words as she ran around the room straightening up this or that. She was now dressed in a pale blue dress, some flower stitched onto the hem and bodice as well as several crystals. A similar design to the dress she'd worn yesterday.

Abruptly though she stilled and turned to Jack clasping her hands. Jack flushed and forced himself to not think about her dress anymore.

“Ready?”

Jack hadn’t noticed until now he still hadn’t moved from his spot on the floor.

“Yes.”

0o0o0

Silently Jack watched as Elsa pushed aside a branch. She had led him through a part of the forest farther away from the entrance. In the distance Jack could hear waves lapping against rock, a few crashing with a noise that made him shiver.

Pushing the path, Jack could see they were on a small cliff with a beach made of black rock below.

“Have you come to drown me, that friend of yours convinced you?” Elsa turned at Jack’s question, and he swallowed hard realizing he’d said it aloud.

“Excuse me?”

“What?” Elsa wrinkled her nose at Jack’s comment but continued down to the beach. Jack half expected to see something nestled along the edge of the rocks, perhaps a raft or boat. Something that would actually get them from one point to another.

But these ideas quickly disappeared as Elsa wadded into the water, up to her ankles.

It was then Jack heavily debated the idea that she was actually here to drown him.

“umm..Elsa dear…what are you doing?” Jack asked hesitantly, gripping his staff. Maybe he could shove her into the water and fly away before she did anything.

Elsa didn’t answer and instead closed her eyes, running a hand over the tide. The water around Elsa’s feet swirled and bubbled and Jack was just about to flee when a loud whiny stopped him.

Turning, that horse from before was now at Elsa’s feet.

It jumped into the air leaving a spray of water on the rocks, grunting happily as it nudged its head into Elsa’s.

“What…what is that..okay what did you do? No wait….what did I do..I mean obviously I did something to Sandy. This is the weirdest dream ever I mean- that little golden man.” Jack continued on rambling until Elsa’s stare of concern snapped him out of it.

“You’re not dreaming, I promise. I got you up and now we're on our way to Arendelle- are you sure you’re alright?” Elsa asked, stepping towards him, hand raised in concern as if she was about to check his head.

Jack couldn't answer though as the horse blocked the two of them. In one smooth kick, a wave of water hit Jack soaking him to the bone.

“Nokk!” Elsa whirled around to the horse as Jack wiped at his face, spitting out a fair amount of ocean water.

“Petrov would like you..little bas-brat, bratty horse.” Jack caught his tongue midway.

“Do you know how to ride a horse?” Elsa asked, running a hand down the horse's side as if to comfort it from Jack’s words. “He’ll be the one taking you to Arendelle, so I’d be kind.”

Jack paused. Did he? He reckoned he probably could. He had, after all, been around for three hundred and some years. Surely some time in his immortal or mortal life he’d ridden one. Glancing back at Nokk Jack made his decision.

“Nope. Out of practice. Couldn’t do it for the life of me.” he said a little too quickly for his liking.

Elsa crinkled a brow perplexed. “Really. How did you get here then? I very much doubt you walked all those miles.”

“I have my ways.” Jack smirked at the look in Elsa’s eyes as she crossed her arms, looking as if she was refraining from rolling her eyes.

“Well Jack, if you’d like you can use those ways to get to Arendelle.” Elsa wagered. Oh Jack would enjoy wiping that smug look of her face.

“Alright then, I’ll see you in a day. Where would you like me to wait?” Jack was right, it was fun to see her face drop.

“Excuse me?” Elsa stammered as Jack sat down on a rock fiddling with his staff.

“No you offered, please I insist.” Elsa was looking at Jack as if he was insane now and he couldn’t help but grin.

“Yeah in fact, your friend..Gale yeah, it-he I dunno, can help me.” Elsa continued to stare and Jack’s smile only grew. Standing up with a flourish Jack twirled his staff between his hands before flinging it over his shoulder.

At his silent request Jack felt the familiar embrace of the wind as it lifted him up and back onto the cliffside. Below him, Elsa slowly dropped her arms and her cocky demeanor waned.

“How did you do that?” Jack quickly flew back down but didn’t quite land on the ground. Instead opting to hover a few feet above, circling the woman like an annoying bird.

“The wind is a friend of mine.” Elsa nodded slowly as if she didn’t believe it. But he was there. Physical proof.

“You look as if you didn’t just offer to give me a ride on a piece of water Elsa.” Jack said it lightheartedly by he inched a little higher as the Nokk grunted in the background. He was in agreement with Elsa though, he didn’t want that horse mad at him.

“No disrespect, the water shapeshifting thing…very cool.” he quickly amended and the horse lowered its head.

“Yes…I did, I just didn’t expect this.” The wind whipped around Elsa’s head, chirping happily as she stared at Jack.

Landing next to her Jack smiled again.

“So deal? You go your way, I go mine?” Elsa stood in thought for a moment then nodded slowly.

“Great, now how do I get to Arendelle?” Elsa didn’t answer and Jack watched as she leaned toward the Nokk, brushing her hands and head against its nose. Before Jack could blink, the horse froze.

The horse was now glittering in the light, made of frost and ice bending it into a tangible form. Looking over her shoulder Elsa smirked.

“You have your talents, find it.”

“Find it?”

“Yes, I’m sure you can get around much faster than I, Gale will help you.”

Jack didn’t answer then laughed, a jolt of excitement in his bones.

“Alright. Where do you want to meet.”

Elsa looked at him in surprise.

“Meet?” she echoed and Jack nodded. “Why would we meet up?”

Jack felt his smile falter but he quickly forced it back up.

“I um…I don’t know. I just figure since you’re going and I…am.”

“I’m going to see my family.” Elsa corrected, and by her tone Jack didn’t necessarily feel as if the invitation extended to him. Why would it? He scolded himself silently for his thoughts.

“Of course, I didn't mean to encroach.” Jack quickly amended. I just met another magical person though and hey maybe you can help me? Jack bit his tongue to keep from speaking.

“I actually am too.” Jack added as Elsa ran her fingers down the icy Nokk’s nose. A bridle appearing, followed by a pair of reins at her fingertips. Made of ice so perfect that Jack felt himself grow envious.

“Really, I thought you didn’t know of Arendelle.” Elsa said her words carrying a wary edge.

“I don’t…they’re from Burgess. I just think..they might be here.” Did he? Did he truly think that his family was here somehow?

“Are you alright?” Jack looked up from his thoughts to see Elsa atop the Nokk watching him, eyes narrowed in pity.

No. He didn’t. He didn't believe his family would make it to a kingdom containing magical women, who made deer dance.

“Yeah..yeah I’m great.” Elsa dug her heels gently into Nokk's side and the horse began to descend further into the water. Jack watched as she faced him.

“Meet me at the castle.” She then called out before the horse sped up and rode off, letting out a triumphant whiny as it reunited with the wave and tide.

The wind, or well Gale, swirled around Jack but he didn’t move. Instead he watched as this snow-like woman disappeared into the blinding water.

Gripping his staff Jack let out a disbelieving laugh.

“Okay..um Gale,” Jack began slowly. It felt weird to give the wind a name after so many years of not. “Will you take me to Arendelle?”

For a moment Gale did nothing, then it flung him into the air. It was so unexpected Jack was afraid the wind would throw him into a tree, much like it had when they first met.

After a moment or so though the wind righted and Jack felt the familiar freedom that came with flying.

Up in the clouds Gale was in control and Jack could see the ground below him fade. Passing above trees and rivers. Glades and marshes. Valleys and mountains.

It took too many hours but eventually Jack was over a fjord. The water was nestled between a large mountain range topped with gorgeous snow.

At the edge of the fjord was a large castle. Constructed of stone and wood, large stained glass windows dotted parts of it. At the top a large snowflake stood, catching the light as Jack approached it.

Landing on the outer banks of the fjord, nestled just under the castle’s wall Jack sat.

“Who are you?” Jack jolted at a voice. He wasn’t used to all these people seeing him.

Expecting a child, Jack instead turned to see a small snowman. Made of three oddly shaped snowballs and complete with a carrot nose.

“Can I help you sir? Why are you sitting in the mud?” Much to his horror though Jack began to laugh. A hysterical laugh that burned his throat and came from his stomach. A laugh that made tears spring in his
eyes and caused him to fall to his side.

What was this? A snowman, what had Sandy done to him? Sure now there were talking snowmen.

“Sir?” the snowman asked again as he leaned over. “Are you okay? What are you doing here? I’m collecting rocks, in fact did you know that rocks come from magma and the oldest is over a billion years old. Gee I wonder what I’d be like to be that old.”

Jack didn’t answer though as he was too busy laughing.

“Sir are you okay? Didn’t you know it’s rude to not answer?” the snowman asked prodding Jack with one of his stick arms. Jack flinched at his touch and shoved him away with his staff.

“Sir?” The snowman sounded concerned now and that was the last thing Jack heard before the world tilted and turned black.

0o0o0

“Then he just fainted!” Jack’s eyes opened at the voice from earlier. “I think he may be in shock, or hysteria.”

“Thank you Olaf, that’ll be all.” Elsa said sweetly and Jack heard a door open then close.

“So…what do we do when he wakes up?” Jack quickly shut his eyes again, luckily his back was to the voices and he was facing a cushion.

“What do you mean? We have a magical spirit, and Olaf made him faint! We need to make sure he’s okay!” Another woman’s voice answered as if it was obvious.

“He’s magic, I say we leave him. No-no offense, I have nothing against magic.” A man offered and an animal-like grunt sounded in agreement.

“I didn’t know..he didn’t say anything.” Elsa sighed and Jack could practically see her wringing her hands.

“Would you have? Honeymaren probably scared whatever confidence this guy had out.” The man asked and a small thud sounded. As if someone had gently scolded him for this comment.

Jack heard footsteps come towards him then a cold hand on his shoulder. Turning Jack saw Elsa standing over him. But now her blue eyes were angry and cold.

Jack felt Elsa grab his wrist and he smiled softly. Then a chink sound echoed through the room and Jack felt something cold on his wrist. Looking down Jack saw a pair of icy cuffs binding his hands.

Jolting up Jack felt his mouth drop as Elsa forced him back down.

“Lovely to meet you Jack Frost.”

Chapter Text

Jack grinned sheepishly as Elsa glared down at him. She definitely didn’t seem pleased.

“Wha-what are you doing?” Jack stammered, now fully awake.

“What are you doing here?” Looking up Jack saw a redheaded woman standing in front of a fireplace, arms crossed and glaring. Jack almost laughed at her attempt to be intimidating.

“Elsa..” Jack turned to see her sitting on a plump chair a few feet away. What made his mouth drop though was the sight of his staff leaning next to her, cradling his snowglobe in the palm of her hands.

“Elsa what are you doing?” he asked with a nervous laugh. Elsa didn’t answer and the redheaded girl walked over.

“What are you doing here Jack frost?” the girl asked, she didn’t look as angry now, more like she was merely annoyed.

“Why can’t we just let him talk? I don’t think we need to lock him up, he’s not Hans.” From the corner of the room that little snowman appeared. Jack scrambled back into the couch cushion as it walked towards him.

“Ya know, it…it has a point-” Jack admitted as he shoved himself into the edge of the couch, curling his legs up to his stomach.

“Not It. He, his name is Olaf.” The redheaded girl said sternly, causing Jack to turn towards her.

“Well Olaf is creepy alright.” Jack shot back and the girl looked like she was about to mark over and throttle him. Protectively as if guarding a child or a sibling she knelt down to the snowman and wrapped her arm around his non-existent shoulders.

“Kristoff, will you go get tea? I’d like for my sister and I to talk to..Jack, alone.” Elsa asked, finally speaking.

A large blonde man nodded, glaring at Jack before going over to the door.

“C’mon Sven. Olaf you too.” The man ordered and Jack watched as a reindeer who had been nestled in the corner got up and awkwardly followed the man. As it passed Jack flinched as it shook its antlers at him before clampering out of the room. Jack made out Olaf humming a small melody under his breath as he skipped out of the room behind them.

“Elsa, who's all in this room..” Jack looked around, nearly falling off the couch in the process, but saw no one else besides him and the two women. Nothing besides stacks of books and large paintings hanging from the wall, their eyes following him.

Elsa didn’t answer, instead opting to stare at him from her chair.

“So what do we do? It’s two of us and only one of him.” the redhead asked and Elsa turned to her slightly shocked.

“Anna, we aren't going to hurt him.”

“I would. He lied to you.” Anna looked at him and curled her hands together. Pressing down she popped a few knuckles.

“Honey, that’s what you deem scary?” Jack didn’t like the almost concern that slipped into his voice, this girl was a poor interrogator. Anna glared at him and stalked over.

“You don’t get to have any impute on this you liar!”

Jack scoffed, leaning his head back.

“I never lied to anyone, if anything you guys are the morally wrong ones! You guys have basically kidnapped me for no good cause.” Jack lifted his icy bound wrists before dropping them back in his lap.

“Fine, you’re right.” Jack looked up at Elsa’s words. That was about the last thing he’d expected to hear.

“I’m assuming there's a but?” Jack muttered.

“You could be a threat.” Elsa sighed, rubbing her forehead. “I mean why didn’t you say something. You were in a magical forest, like why come here instead of going back to- what did he say it was?”

“Burgess.” Anna filled.

“Why would I come here! I don’t know cause you offered?!” Jack shrieked, turning to Elsa.

“But you can fly, why not just fly on home.” Elsa countered, her voice as calm as ever. Jack paused. Damn it that was a good point.

“I don’t know…I-I didn’t want to?” He answered lamely.

Anna groaned and her face fell into her hands.

“Elsa, he looks so sad, can we let him go? He’s like a little kicked puppy.” Jack felt his mouth drop.

“Excuse me!”

Both girls ignored him.

“Okay fine..how do you two know who I am? Not you per say.” Jack nodded towards Elsa then pointed at Anna. “But you why-how can you see me?”

“What does that mean!” Anna whispered fiercely, glancing at Elsa.

"Okay..um I look insane and I know but..this is a little weird for me too, I’m just..not used to other than a....select..few people seeing me okay?” Jack pacified. “You.” he gestured to Elsa again. “You got magic, and I’m getting to that but you,” He pointed to Anna this time “Do you have magic or something?”

Anna flicked her hair over her shoulder and stood haughtily in front of him.

“No, but it’s like I need it.” Jack almost caught a whiff of self consciousness slip into her voice.

Jack shrugged and leaned back, this girl's confidence wasn’t any of his concern. “I mean you could..you're not very good at this interrogation stuff, like you could at least get a gun or a knife to threaten me with…
hell..that fire proder in the corner would probably work.”

Anna let out a noise somewhere between a laugh and a scoff.

“For that I’m not letting you go puppy boy.” Anna hissed, crossing her arms.

“Can you stop talking redhead? You’re not helping anything!” Jack shot back.

“Both of you be quiet!” Elsa yelled now on her feet, small flurries of snow hovering over her, suspended in the air.

Both of them shut up.

“Sorry…” Anna muttered glaring at Jack.

“Anna you’re a queen and a mother you need to relax!” Elsa spat. “Be Diplomatic.” she said her voice softened, Elsa then turned to Jack.

“And you,” Jack tried to smile as she sharpened her voice, but it came off as more of a grimace. “You’re not helping your case.”

The room was silent besides the sound of what appeared to be Anna choking back a laugh at Jack’s scolding.

Standing between the two of them Elsa clutched her hands. Jack noticed her knuckles were turning white and he reckoned if he pulled her fingers off her palm, her nails would leave small semi-circles.

“Jackson, what do you mean..why shouldn’t we see you.” Elsa said slowly.

Jack waited for a moment but Elsa beckoned for him to talk.

“Okay, umm well, typically people have to believe in me…”

“Believe in you as moral support? Cause I don’t care about your well being, that left the second you lied.” Anna snapped, crossing her arms. Elsa sent her a warning look.

“Well that’s mutual- but no! no that’s…that’s not what I meant.” Jack stammered at Elsa’s gaze. “Sorry..” he whispered and Elsa raised her hands. Between Anna and Jack a wall of ice shot up from the floor.

Anna gasped and jolted back as Jack fell against the couch cushion. A small smile formed on his lips though. He did like seeing this magic, this ice, it had a more magical element than his did. A whimsical feeling
that didn’t come when he made it.

“Don’t speak to each other.” Elsa sounded like a tired schoolteacher and Jack wiped the grin off his face. Jack heard her draw in a breath but he couldn’t see her anymore as a box of ice formed around him and he
heard a similar box form around Anna.

“Jack.” he looked up at his name. “Why would we need to believe in you?”

Jack thought for a moment.

He must have been silent too long, as Elsa cleared her throat pointedly.

“Sorry…umm…I guess that’s how it works? Magic stuff..can’t see something if you don’t believe in it. Typically though…it’s younger…not that you're old!” Jack added hurriedly. “People that can see me, like kids.
Kids and other spirits with magic, it’s why I asked you Anna if you had magic.” he rushed.

He heard Elsa let out a hum under her breath as if she made a mental note.

“I know you due to stories Jackie, yeah you don’t have a good reputation in those!” Anna yelled from behind the ice.

“So. Children can see you?” Elsa echoed. “That…and magical folk.”

Jack paused. This felt like a trap.

“Yes?” He croaked and Elsa didn’t respond.

“Can I ask a question? What do you mean by stories?” He called out.

His voice bounced against the ice softly echoing back at him.

“You are a fable.” Elsa said. Jack flinched at the word.

“I’m a spirit-” He corrected.

“And in your fable-” Elsa continued. Jack rolled his eyes. “You have magic.”

“So do you, hypocrite. Does that make you a fable?”

“You bring storms. Storms that are wild and lead to death.” Elsa whispered the last part. Jack expected her to say more but she didn’t.

Shifting in his seat Jack felt as if there was something unsaid in the air.

“Well…I promise I’m not going to destroy something with a storm.” Jack said. “Not unless I need to.”

He’d meant the last part of that playfully but with a crash the block of ice around him shattered. Throwing his hands up Jack swatted away stray pieces of ice as Elsa marched over to him furiously.

“I’m joking, I’m joking please!” Jack cried and Elsa stopped a few inches away. “I wouldn’t…my job is to bring fun and trust me a deadly storm doesn’t sound fun to anyone.” he laughed nervously.

“It truly doesn’t.” Jack froze as the door opened and Olaf’s voice echoed through the room.

“I-I brought tea…” Kristoff muttered and Jack heard a tray get set down before the man's footsteps retreated.

“I mean we do not need a repeat of that happening…nothing good came out of the eternal winter, besides me of course. Also what a weird name..eternal winter I mean didn’t it only last like a week?” Olaf laughed
and then promptly sat down next to the fireplace.

The air in the room stiffened. Elsa paled from her spot and Anna's cheeks turned red. Olaf was oblivious it seemed and he sat next to the fire, sliding his three coal buttons off.

“Yeah no I’m-’m not gonna repeat an eternal winter.” Jack assured. “What even is that?”

“Oh well Elsa accidentally froze Arendelle in a fit of pent up emotions and concealed magic during her coronation. Plus there was also this really ugly guy named Hans, Anna was gonna marry him but it turned out he was a-”

“I DON’T NEED TO KNOW!” Jack said quickly, at the same time Anna shrieked “OLAF!”

Jack flopped over on the couch and looked at Elsa who stared at the floor.

“Projecting are we?” he teased and he saw the tips of her ears turn pink.

Elsa didn’t answer. Softly Jack could hear Anna scolding Olaf behind him, however he was more focused at the state Elsa was in at the moment.

Slowly she lowered herself into the chair beneath her, her hands clutching the arm tufts tightly.

“You-..” Elsa fought to speak. “can’t blame me for wanting to avoid my mistake.”

Jack wanted to make a joke or summon up some snarky answer but instead he just nodded.

“Yeah.” A look of surprise flashed swiftly over Elsa’s face. “I can’t.”

“So. What do we do?” Anna asked and Jack looked over his shoulder to see her sipping a cup of tea, watching them. She smirked at him from behind the rim of her cup.

“What will you do if I let you go?” Elsa whispered looking up at Jack. Jack inhaled sharply at her look. For a moment she was scared and vulnerable. But she stood and the look disappeared just as quickly as Jack saw it.

“Nothing.” Jack whispered. “Just..just leave I guess.” In one hand Elsa clutched Jack’s staff (He’d almost forgotten it’s absent.) and with the other she curled her fingers into a fist. Jack watched in amazement as the ice binding his wrists faded and melted into small water droplets that rolled into his sleeves. The edges of his hoodie turning a dark blue.

Elsa stepped back and Jack slowly walked over to her. Holding out his hand Elsa begrudgingly handed over his staff one hand still holding its end tightly.

“Thank you.” He muttered. Elsa didn’t answer but bobbed her chin in a half nod, showing no sign of that fear Jack had caught for a moment.

Clearing his throat Jack bounced slightly on his heels unsure what to do.

“You may leave.” Elsa said, dropping the edge of the staff the wooden stick landed with a thud. Readjusting his grip Jack nodded.

“Yep.” Jack didn’t look at her as he went over to a window against the wall and opened it.

“Well goodbye, redhead, creepy snowman.” Anna rolled her eyes at him.

“Get out.” Elsa ordered waving a hand at him. Jack obliged and felt the wind, or Gale, flow around him as he fell backwards. He heard Anna scream and the window in front of him slammed shut with an icy blast.

Chapter Text

He’d meant to leave he truly did. He’d even been halfway through the portal when he’d been stopped. But just as Jack had activated the snowglobe, having smashed it against a large tree, a large blur of black sand whirled around him.

Knocked backwards Jack was momentarily blinded as his head slammed into the ground. Jumping up the winter spirit looked back just in time to see a nightmare reel up on its back legs, kicking wildly in the air.
Clutching his staff Jack raised the hook level with the whirl of black sand, but before he could shoot a blast of ice towards it, it took off into the darkness.

Panting Jack slowly turned in a circle the light of the portal offering some relief against the darkness.

The air stilled and Jack slumped against a tree, the loose hum of the portal echoing in his ears. For a moment Jack considered going after the nightmare but then shrugged and dropped his staff to his side,
one nightmare wouldn’t hurt anything.

Closing his eyes the winter spirit sighed. The one nice thing about Arendelle was the still slightly crisp snowy air, it at least offered Jack some comfort from the now warm spring turning air. After a few
painstaking moments he shook his head, annoyed that he had let his guard down.

He jumped into the air ready to get out of here when something caught his eye. Another black shadow escaped the treeline, darting across a patch of stars. Jack closed his eyes and inhaled sharply before letting out a noise similar to a cry and a whine. Jumping into the air the winter spirit stealthily rode the the wind, er well Gale he supposed, as the nightmare bolted in between clouds.

“No…oh you gotta be kidding me!” Jack whined silently to himself as they came to the castle. Landing on the outer wall of the courtyard Jack debated his chances. Elsa had told him to leave and Jack truly didn’t want to disobey her and her order. He figured that would land him in a dungeon or worse. (Well Jack wasn’t sure what year it was exactly, he didn’t want to see what punishments a ruler would do to someone who
disobeyed them.)

Before he could leave though a thick stream of black sand began to swirl and glide around one of the balconies. Jack stared in confusion before something hit him.

Cursing under his breath he leapt into the air and glided toward it. Jack flicked his staff and a small platform of Ice appeared under his feet as he balanced next to the worn wooden balcony. If he wasn’t so preoccupied with the dark sand threatening to blind him Jack would’ve almost been impressed by the detailed carvings of a locus that adorned the wood.

Reaching a hand out hesitantly Jack gathered a handful of the dark sand and examined it. It had an almost warmth to it and itched the inside of Jack’s palm as he dropped it.
Nightmare sand.

This was the last thing Jack wanted to deal with. Lifting his staff Jack submerged it in the sand and quickly drew it back. A split second later the sand burst into icy particles and vanished.
He knew he should probably leave before something else happened, but he was curious about who had attracted the annoying parasites Pitch sent out in the night. He flipped into the air and peered into the window unable to see anything. He turned ready to go when a small light caught the corner of his eye, flashing the room in a golden light.

Jack gasped and quickly shrank out of view. He could feel his heart race in his chest at the close call. As much as he dared he etched his way into the light. He could see a woman sitting up in bed and a man next to her still asleep.

The girl slipped out of bed and grabbed the nearby candle before walking towards the terrace. Flailing backwards onto the roof Jack clutched his staff and shrank in on himself.

“Anna.” Jack knitted his brow in shock as the woman from before came into view. He mussed over whether he should ask her if she was ok, when she let out a scream. Jack looked around and then noticed she
was staring at him.

“Damn it.” Anna shrieked again at Jack’s words. Looking at the candle in her hand she looked at Jack then threw the melting wax to him. Dodging it Jack watched as the candle smashed against the roof. Sending a bolt of ice to extinguish the flame Jack turned back to the woman before him. “Anna, Anna it's me remember?” Jack begged, shushing her as he flew over and held a hand up. “It's Jack frost…the…the fable.” he choked out the last word.

“Anna, what's wrong?” the other man asked as he came out onto the balcony. He gasped and his gaze went from one of confusion to one of anger as he spotted Jack.

“Oh..it’s you..Hi.” Jack whispered as he inched away from Anna.

The man glared at Jack for a split second then lunged at him and grabbed at him Jumping back Jack tried to resist kicking at Anna as she grabbed his arm, locking her fingers around his hoodie

“Let go of me!” Jack groaned as he tried to wrench his arm free but failed under Anna’s grasp. The man quickly grabbed his other arm and they both began to pull him into the room.

“What are you doing here?” Anna shrieked at him as she recovered from her shock and shoved him towards the bed.

“Let me go then I'll tell you.” Jack snapped back trying once more to free his arm but only making the man tighten his grip. Panting slightly Anna let go of Jack’s arm and opened a chest nestled at the end of the bed.

“That’s not happening anytime soon.” The man glared at him as Anna pulled out a piece of rope looping one end around the bedframe and the other around Jack’s arm.. Jack swallowed and couldn’t help but cast
a shocked gaze at Anna.

Anna and the man merely glared at him. Anna then whispered something into the man's ear. He nodded and walked over to Jack. Jack couldn’t help but mutter spitefully as the man reached out to try to grab his staff. The winter spirit tightened the grip on his staff and attempted to move it as far away as he could as he kicked the man in the shin.
The man groaned in annoyance and pinned Jack’s legs down with one of his arms well yanking Jack's staff out of his hand and walking over to Anna with the other.

“Thanks your Majesty.” Jack spat at Anna.

“Serves your right, you can’t just come into someone's bed chambers and spy on them, do you not see how messed up that looks! Also didn’t Elsa tell you to leave?”

“Ok in my defense..” Jack interjected.

“You have no defense Jack.” the other man said, raising his hand to silence him. “Do you not realize how spying on someone in the middle of the night is terrifying.”

“I was not spying!” Jack then yelled at them struggling against the rope that held him in place.

“Of course you weren't, you just thought you would come say ‘hi’ in the middle of the night?” Anna deadpanned sitting down on the edge of the bed.

“No ok, I was trying to help you.”

“How?”

“Which one of you had a nightmare that ended suddenly?” Jack questioned. Anna’s eyes widened slightly in surprise.

“How did you know that?” she whispered.

“Your welcome redhead I was on your balcony and I was the one that ended it!”

The blonde man rolled his eyes at this and crossed his arms over chest. “How do you suppose you can prove that?”

“Well Mr. King concert, prince, whatever you are, if you would kindly give me my staff back I can prove it to you, in fact I can even get an alibi.” Jack said giving up on freeing himself from the rope.

“First of all, my name is Kristoff and second, give me one good reason I can trust you.” he challenged.

Jack tilted his head back and groaned. “Listen, you can’t trust me, I have no reason for you to, so you're just going to have to take my word that I didn’t mean anything.” Kristoff's eyes widened at this as if surprised. Jack bit back a smirk as he realized he had enticed the man.

“Please, I promise you can even come with me if you want to go that far.” Jack coaxed. Kristoff raised an eyebrow, but seemed to think this over. He turned to Anna, both of them then marched over to the corner of the room and began to whisper to each other in soft breaths. After a few moments, Kristoff came over to Jack and began to untie the rope around his wrist.
Jack rubbed his wrist where the rope had cut into the skin, before reaching out for his staff.

“Give it.”

“Not at all.” Kristoff said as he handed it over to Anna. “I’m not risking you using magic on me.”

Jack sighed, turned on his heel and walked toward the balcony with Kristoff following behind. The spirit quickly opened the balcony with a flourish and walked outside into the cool night air.

“So how are you going to get this proof of yours again?” Kristoff asked, stepping out after him and closing the door behind him with a click. Jack sighed, willing all the patience left in his body to help him not lash out at this man.

Jack extended a hand out to Kristoff who looked at Jack in confusion.

“Just trust the process.” The winter spirit muttered, fed up. Kristoff grabbed Jack's wrist letting out a grimace at how cold his body was.

“Yeah I know, winter spirit ” Jack shrugged, stepping up on the balcony’s ledge, jerking Kristoff towards him.

"What are you doing?”

“We have to fly to get there.”

“What!” Anna and Kristoff both said. Jack shrugged again and dropped Kristoff’s hand.

“It’s either that or nothing, you want an alibi then I need to get him.” Truthfully Jack didn’t know if his alibi would be there waiting for him. But by Manny Jack hoped he was.

“Woah, woah what's stopping you from just leaving?” Anna said abruptly. “I mean again not exactly upset by that but..I mean..right?” she glanced at Kristoff who glanced quickly between Jack and her. “He should
stay?”

Anna pulled at a braid of orange hair nervously, as her eyes darted between the two men. Inhaling sharply she squared her shoulders back and stormed over to Jack. Holding out a hand she stood looking
expectantly at Jack.

“You sphere thing…give it to me.” Anna demanded. Jack blinked and paused for a second before letting out a silent O of realization.

“Yeah no..I-I uh I can’t do…” Jack reached into his hoodie as he recalled the snowglobe now turned portal having been abandoned in the woods. But his words soon faltered as his palm curved around the silver
globe.

“Nevermind actually, here.” Jack pulled out the snowglobe and tossed it to Anna, who caught it with a slight stumble.

“Okay..now, you-you don’t bring him back and I’ll-I’ll destroy this!” Anna threatened, raising the snowglobe in the air menacingly. Jack let out a skeptical hum but nodded as he reached a hand out to Kristoff.
Kristoff raised an eyebrow but grabbed Jack’s wrist. Jack almost laughed as Kristoff let out a gasp as Gale swept them into the air.

As Gale swirled them higher into the air, his head on a swivel as Jack looked around. Squinting Jack could vaguely make out a golden speck in the distance that was growing closer, just at the end of the horizon.
Arendelle's king gasped as they landed on a massive swirling cloud of golden sand that danced through the air. As Jack’s grip faltered on his wrist and they landed on the cloud of sand, it seemed as if the sand beneath their feet pushed against them keeping them afloat.

“I’m going to assume this has something to do with your proof?” Kristoff whispered.

“Yep.” The winter spirit nodded as he stuck his hands in his pocket, whistling as he strolled around the golden cloud looking around. Kristoff gasped as he noticed a small plump man in the middle of the cloud
waving his hands around the air sending streams of sand throughout the night sky.

Jack walked over to the little man and tapped him on the shoulder. The man turned around and gave Jack a kind smile before an image of what Kristoff guessed was himself and a question mark appeared above the golden man’s pointy hair.

Kristoff watched as Jack nodded along to the man's hand gestures and more images flashed above the golden man. Pushing himself to his feet Kristoff slowly walked over to them. Jack knit his brow upon seeing him.

“Oh right, may I introduce Mr. King, prince of Arendalle.” Jack said, giving him a mock bow. The golden man elbowed Jack in the leg and gave him a disapproving look.

“And this is Sandy.” Jack waved a hand at the golden man, a small smile forming on his face. Sandy nodded confidently and gave a wave to Kristoff. Looking back to Jack he shook his head at Jack, silently smacking his lips in disappointment.

“Some king, named Kristoff?” Jack explained, folding his arm over his chest, his staff slung over his shoulder as he glanced at Kristoff for confirmation.

“For the record I am only royalty through marriage…thank you…” Kristoff interjected quickly. He could feel his cheeks turning red slightly as the Winter spirit looked slightly surprised.

“I thought all royals did…marrying other royals?”

“No I don’t even know who my parents are, certainly not royalty though, they took off when I was young.” Jack’s eyes widened in shock. Kristoff relished slightly at surprising the winter spirit.

“Oh.” A tight silence filled the air before Jack cleared his throat. Kristoff jumped as a golden image appeared above Sandy’s head. The small man was looking at Jack and the winter wielding spirit's face looked uncomfortable. Looking closer at the image Kristoff saw it was of a headstone.

A shiver of dread went down Kristoff’s spine.

“What does that mean?” he asked, taking a step towards Jack. Snapping his gaze off the floating image Jack cleared his throat and stepped away.

“What-” Jack held up a hand cutting the king off though. For a moment Kristoff wondered if Jack would fly away, turning into nothing more than a spec in the sky. But after a second Jack spoke, the sand beneath his feet freezing to clumps.

“My sister…she-I want to pay respects.” he finally said. “Or..I did…”

“You did?” Jack nodded.

“I..I thought maybe she was here but she’s not so I’m gonna leave. I just came back to stop the nightmare I swear.” Jack babbled. It appeared he had seen the gravity of the image as well.
Kristoff didn’t speak.

“So I suppose you would like to get home before your wife is completely convinced I killed you,” Jack suggested, fidgeting with the strings of his hoodie nervously.
Kristoff nodded. “That would probably be best.”

The second they landed back on that balcony Anna rushed over to Kristoff and threw herself around him.

“Well what do you know I didn’t kill your husband.” Jack muttered. Anna rolled her eyes and threw didn’t answer instead opting to throw the snowglobe back at Jack. (who nearly toppled over headfirst over the railing in his attempt to catch it) With Gale catching him the second he began to fall Jack turned to the couple.

Anna looked like she was ready to fall asleep from relief and Kristoff was eyeing Jack warily.

“Now if you'll excuse me, I must go Mr. King…Redhead.” Jack said bowing midair to the couple.

“If you keep calling me by some title I will tie you back up again.” Kristoff threatened. Jack laughed at him but he didn’t doubt it.

“Jack.” the winter spirit turned stiffly at Kristoff's voice. Though his voice was pleasant enough Jack could sense the suspicion and slight fear radiating off him.

“Meet me here tomorrow.” Jack was taken back by the request. Glancing at Anna, who offered no reassurance or answer, Jack nodded silently.

“Okay..” he nodded and cleared his throat. “Yeah.” he said, forcing his voice to be more at ease. “Sure, see you tomorrow.”

Kristoff turned and hurried inside Anna quickly following. In the dark Jack let out a humorless laugh. In his quest to leave he’d been invited to breakfast with some king. Of course there was always the option of leaving before morning came. Truthfully though Jack didn’t feel like starting an anti Jack frost rumor in this kingdom by abandoning their king. Tightening his grip on his staff Jack set off for the golden cloud in the distance, slowly fading into the horizon.

Chapter Text

The next morning Jack watched as Kristoff opened the balcony door. It was still dark out and the rising sun had taken refuge behind a wall of clouds.

Despite that though the king looked like he had enough energy for the two of them. Even though Jack had been a guardian for years now and had gotten a pretty good hold on keeping his emotions, specifically his fear in check, he couldn’t help but feel a prickle of it as he approached the man.

It wasn’t that Jack was scared of Kristoff (nor would he admit it) but he definitely was scared of what the man would do if he suspected Jack was lying.

“Where are we going?” Jack asked as the blonde man stared off into the distance.

“Didn’t think you would come.” Kristoff said easily. Jack didn’t miss his question going unanswered.

“Debated it for awhile..” Jack muttered.

Stiff silence filled the air.

“Where are we going?” The winter spirit tried again and Kristoff blinked hard as if he had forgotten Jack was there.

“I have some..friends..that may be able to help you, with your sister.” Jack’s breath hitched at that last part.

“I-I…no thanks.” Jack turned to leave but Kristoff grabbed his wrist forcing him in place. Jack blinked and stared at Kristoff for a moment then limply lifted his wrist.

“You gonna tie me up again? Gonna make a habit of it? Cause I can think of better ideas..” Kristoff quickly dropped Jack’s wrist.

“No-I, no and I apologized for that.”

“You didn’t, but truthfully I don’t care.” Jack sighed jumping onto the balcony railing sending large tendrils of frost down the side of the castle.

“I can show you where your sister actually is!” Kristoff bargained. “Also if you could..can you not destroy this castle Elsa would kill me.” Jack tilted his head in thought. Now that the king had brought it up, knowing where Mary laid would be handy. After all, the idea of hunting for a bunch of graves didn’t appeal to Jack. And well he may be immortal that didn’t mean the task wouldn’t be too time consuming for Jack’s
personal preference.

Facing the blonde king Jack let out a loud breath.

“That..that is a good point...” Jack hated the small smirk that formed on Kristoff's face.

“It is, now it’ll take about a day or two to get to my friends, so If you’d meet me downstairs we can get going.” Jack felt a child-like groan spread through his chest. A few moments later he almost laughed at himself for this reaction. Modern life certainly had spoiled him.

“Yeah no I have a better idea-” Jack quickly pulled out his snowglobe cradling it in his hands like it was a crown jewel before Kristoff could fully open the balcony door. Kristoff blinked, Jack let out a small laugh at the look of pure shock and disbelief on his face.

“C'mon..it’ll be quick, mostly painless and fun!” Jack coaxed, flipping into the air. Kristoff fiddled with the tips of his fingers, a habit Jack had noticed most of the royals in this castle had.

“No..yes, I kinda need an answer.”

“How long will it take?”

“Thirty seconds.”

“And what is it?”

“Makes a portal that'll take you where your friends are, just think of where you wanna go, then just throw it.” Jack hoped North wouldn’t kill him for entrusting this with a stranger.
Kristoff nodded and took the snowglobe from Jack, shifting it in the light.

“Troll valley.” The king finally said. “Take us there.”

Jack hummed in acknowledgment. It was only when he opened his mouth to repeat the name did he realize what he heard.

“Did you say troll?” Kristoff nodded.

“Are your friends trolls cause if so, that explains a lot.” Rolling his eyes Kristoff sent the snow globe flying through the air before slamming into the wall with a thud.

“NOT THAT HARD!” Jack shrieked as a portal appeared. “That’s not mine you know!” but the winter spirit’s complaints were quelled as Kristoff shoved him into the portal.
Reaching out Jack managed to just barely grab Kristoff by the shirt dragging him through by pure momentum alone.

When the spinning and whirl of colors in Jack’s head stopped he was met by a crushing weight.

“O-off, get off me-” Jack squeaked out from under Kristoff as the blonde man shoved himself off the winter spirit. Panting Jack lolled around turning his head this way and that, expecting to see some troll. Perhaps one similar to those little plastic ones with the wiry hair that Sophie played with occasionally. Or a wart covered creature with bulging eyes and a bad temper.

Instead all Jack saw were suspiciously round rocks covered in moss.

Standing Jack poked his staff at one of the rocks before slowly turning to Kristoff.

“Hmm..so your friends..they’re rocks.” The blonde man ignored him and began to carefully maneuver through the clearing. Jack watched the king for a moment, drumming his fingers against his staff.

“I mean, hey can’t take what you have for granite can you.” Jack saw Kristoff bunch up his shoulders.

“How did you find this place? What did you hit rock bottom and flee Arendelle?” Jack took immense pleasure at the king's barely contained eye roll.

“ Did you wanna start a clean slate between us? Is that why you brought me here?” Jack couldn’t help the small laugh that escaped his lips as Kristoffs annoyance grew.

“If you’re going to make puns please come up with better ones my dear!” Jack froze at a woman's voice. Looking down Jack saw a little round, gray..well..a troll he supposed.

“Kristoff, my darling boy came up with better ones when he was seven.” the troll continued her pudgy arms crossed and a playful scolding on her face. A large clatter went through the valley and Jack saw the previously unimportant rocks now roll towards Kristoff, before springing open revealing more of the trolls.

“Really?” Jack darted his gaze to Kristoff who was now balancing several troll children in his arms as he spoke to another troll.

“Any good ones?” Jack whispered, gripping his staff as he fiddled with his hoodie strings.

“Oh man, the first few months Kristoff was here he came up with several great ones! Poor boy, some could say he was stuck between a rock and a hard place when he got here.” Jack snickered and the troll elbowed his shin as if they were close friends bumping shoulders.

“Sooo, no parents and your first step was to go and live with trolls.” Jack laughed as he sent a wave of frost towards a mountain of troll children who screamed in joy as they came crumbling to the ground only for Gale to catch them and lower them to safety. “No judgment of course, I mean I'm friends with a magical rabbit.”

“A rabbit?” Kristoff asked, turning his attention to Jack.

“Yeah.” Jack laughed as several troll children climbed onto him like he was a human tree. A few even teamed up to steal his staff. (Which Jack figured was harmless enough, he could always steal it back if needed, plus giving children fun was his job after all and he was pretty sure that rule extended to all children human or not.)

“He’s..interesting, named Aster, obsessed with eggs, loves chocolate but can’t eat it so that's fun…”

“Are-are you talking about the easter bunny?!”

“Yes, the easter bunny, what other magical rabbits have you heard of?”

“You-your friends with the easter bunny?” Kristoff cried in disbelief, eyeing Jack like he was mental. “He’s real!”

“Your sister in law is some ice queen, but you don’t believe in the easter bunny?” Jack said, he wondered how the blonde king would react when they realized that was the most normal part of his everyday life.

“What do you do together? Do you paint eggs?” the king asked after a moment of hesitation. Jack nodded, “Sometimes, mostly they paint themselves.”

“Do you also know santa?” Kristoff asked, his voice laced with amusement and disbelief. Jack opened his mouth to speak when another voice interrupted him.

“He does.”

Both men froze and turned to see a much older looking troll standing next to them. Hunched over as if he couldn’t fully undo himself from his rock self.

“Hi Grandpappie.” Kristoff said softly, leaning down to the troll. Jack smiled awkwardly at the troll and stepped back. Instead he watched as several troll children spun around his staff like it was a maypole, only to have the staff fall down with a clatter nearly landing on one of them. Wincing Jack drew in a large breath. He already regretted letting go of that.

“Hello Jackson.” Grandpappie said happily. “Lovely to see you.”

“Hi.” Jack whispered inching closer to Kristoff. “Who is this?” he whispered to the blonde man. Jack felt like a child at their friends house for the first time, or perhaps at an overwhelming family reunion.

“This is my friend, the one I wanted you to see.” Kristoff said, shoving Jack towards the troll.

“Yep!” Jack said with a little too much enthusiasm for his liking, “I was told you could help me see my sister!” the winter spirit winced at his voice, he sounded like an over eager camp counselor. All he had to do now was throw his arm through the air in delight and he was complete.

“Are you having sibling problems as well?” The one troll from earlier waddled over to Jack.

“No.” Jack squeaked. Was he, could you have problems with a dead girl?

“No, he just wants to find where she’s buried.” Kristoff said quickly, clearly trying to minimize the situation.

“Yep, just wanna find a grave.”

“Do you not know where she’s buried?” the troll asked, placing a sympathetic hand on Jack’s leg.

“Yeah uhh I don’t, I wasn’t able to make the funeral by a few hundred years so I really don’t know. I didn’t remember who my sister was for way too long soo.” Jack said, letting out a humorless chuckle.

“Oh you poor boy!” the troll sighed her eyes welling up. Kristoffs jaw dropped at Jack’s words.

“We-we will be getting back to that!” the king stammered but managed to pull himself together enough to face Grandpappie. “But yes, we need to find a grave..” The troll’s face grew somber and he sighed.

“I cannot do that, I’m sorry.”

Jack wanted to strangle Kristoff. Looking towards the king Jack felt the temperature drop a few degrees, despite the warmth of the rising sun.

Kristoff though looked shocked. As if those were the last words he had expected.

“But, I’ve seen you-”

"I cannot read the past, I can merely help guide people to the future they want.” Grandpappie explained.

“Can’t you magically see the future then to help me see where I go?” Jack asked. The troll leader shook his head.

“I cannot, it does not work that way I’m afraid..I can only see it based on what you have seen and done, so If you yourself don’t know.” Kristoff nodded and Jack sank to the floor. A crippling feeling of defeat settled in the winter spirits stomach.

“I’m sorry.” Grandpappie whispered and Jack found himself believing the troll's words.

“It’s fine..” Jack groaned, rubbing his eyes. Maybe he could just snow globe his way home and start over. Forget he ever came to this place, forget about this troll raised king and his magical sister in law, not to mention the sassy redheaded queen.

“Well..then, If you don’t mind, I’d like to go.” Jack whispered and stood, grabbing his staff out of a group of troll children's hands as they carried above them like a victory flag.

“You coming Mr. King?” Jack muttered as he grabbed his snowglobe out of his pocket. Whispering into it Jack tried to focus on Arendelle's castle but Mary filled his mind and he felt his chest constrict. Despite his reluctance at Kristoffs help, Jack had felt a pricker of hope in finding a clue towards his sister. Something he didn’t want, but still felt. This snowglobe would be no use to him if it read his true wants, and he couldn’t just leave the King here. Marching over to Kristoff, Jack shoved the snow globe into his hands and backed away.

“Just get us back to the castle.” he whispered and the king nodded. A few seconds later Jack heard the portal appear and before Grandpapie or anyone else could say anything Jack darted into it. A large sprawl of frost his only reminder.

0o0o0

Kristoff looked over the courtyard's walls out towards Arendelle. Rain disrupted his view as it dribbled off the roof. Though he hadn’t seen Jack since the trolls this morning, the winter spirit was on his mind. The king couldn’t help but feel bad for the spirit.

The way Jack’s mood had shifted uncomfortably at the mention of his sister, the hopelessness Jack had seemed to feel when the trolls hadn’t been able to help. Kristoff frowned as a hopeless idea appeared in his head, growing stronger and more resolved as he tried to push it away.

It would be a stupid idea. Perhaps even dangerous.

An idea that required the fifth spirit's permission to even begin.

Chapter Text

Elsa startled at a thud at her door. Wiping her hair out of her face Elsa slowly slid out of bed. Rain pelted against the window, offering a private symphony for the snow queen. Sliding her feet into the cool satin slippers at her bedside Elsa took a deep breath. Righting herself she quickly drew a forgotten shawl around her shoulders and marched over to the door.

Before she could pull it open another more frantic knock sounded, and by the time she had unlatched it and drawn it open Kristoff had his hand lifted in preparation for another.
The king looked visibly relieved upon seeing Elsa, in fact he seemed to practically collapse in on himself upon meeting her gaze.

“Hi. Hi Elsa..” The snow queen waited a moment for the man to say more but instead he remained standing. Silent and taking up space, he reminded Elsa quite like the mountains he resided from.

“Kristoff, may I help you?” Elsa finally said as the king stared at his feet. The wind outside howled in protest, ushering the conversation along.

“Yes, uhh..so I need some help with Jack..”

Elsas face fell.

Soon though her shock was replaced by anger. An anger so hot she could feel her cold skin grow warm. An anger that just barely masked the fear that threatened to overtake her.

“You do?”

Kristoff nodded. “But..but not in a bad way, in fact it was my fault he’s here and please-I-just-need-you-two-to-listen-to-each-other!”

Elsa could barely make out the last of the desperate king's plea. Inhaling sharply, she closed her eyes. Though she hadn’t been queen for several years now, Elsa managed to draw herself up to look ever the part. Calm and at peace, not a trace of fear on her features.

Opening her eyes again she noticed Kristoff was warily staring at her.

“So, I just need you to take him to..” the king swallowed hard. “To Ahtohallan..he can leave if you do!”

A large cold burst landed on Elsa’s nose. It wasn’t until several more white flurries appeared on her lashes and lips did she realize that it was now snowing.

“No.” Her voice came out sharper than she intended, and the settled snow whirled into the air. “No.” she repeated again, slightly calmer.

“Please, you want him to leave, and he wants to leave, if we help him, it’ll send him off on good terms. It’ll help him stick to his end of your deal!”

Elsa very much doubted that. If anything was true about those fables and stories, she’d read on Jack it was that he was too mischievous and tricking to uphold a promise. Even one that benefited him. Though she had to admit she was impressed by Kristoffs reasoning, a good trait for a king she believed.

“Then why is he here then if he wants to leave so badly!” Elsa cried, marching into the room and lowering herself into a large armchair. The spirit winced as snow landed on her head and frost escaped her fingertips.

Kristoff paused.

“That would be my fault, I took him to the trolls..but they couldn’t help..”

Elsa shot up. And much to her horror, Kristoff fell to the ground. Beneath his feet was a large patch of black ice.

The king let out a groan of pain.

“I’m fine, sorry that caught me off guard.” the king let out a nervous laugh. Elsa didn’t answer though instead she tried to spot that pathetic spirit. That coward who attacked a man when he was resting.

“Elsa?” the queen snapped her head down to see Kristoff staring at her. He was wide eyed and was scrambling to his feet. Elsa felt her breath go short as his look. The look of pity and perhaps even fear or shock that looked back at her. Beneath her the crunch of ice sounded as she took a step. The ice was growing with her movement. Coming from her, no one else.
She felt sick. She wanted to wipe that stupid look off Kristoff's face. The look that had plagued her for years. The silent assurance that no one was truly trusting of her.

“Elsa…it’s alright.” Kristoff’s words meant nothing now though. Sinking into the chair Elsa swallowed and pinched her nails into her palm, forcing the ice to stay in place.

“I’m fine.” Kristoff's voice was calm and reassuring as if he was coaxing a child or animal, or perhaps a monster back to comfort. “I just slipped.”

The wind and snow screamed at Elsa. Begging to be contained again, to reside back in the little part of her that controlled it.

“I..I’d like..you to leave…leave please.” Elsa stammered. She heard the ice crack under Kristoff’s feet and then the door closed. The thud it made sent her bile up her throat.

The snow on her head was now dripping down her back, soaking her hair and dress. It would’ve been unpleasant but it was a welcome distraction from the thoughts and feelings that overtook her head. In the distance Elsa heard a thud.

Another knock.

Ice broke off Elsa’s fingers as she rose from her chair. Slowly the queen made her way over to the door but another knock caught her attention.

Not from the door, but from beside her.

Glancing over Elsa saw a large sprawl of frost over the balcony doors.

A scream tore at Elsa’s throat but she fought it down. A few seconds later a large icy blast tore the door open.

Elsa slowly lowered her trembling hand. Outside Jack sat on the edge of the balcony. He didn’t move and instead just held a hand up gently cradling a few frozen raindrops that were suspended in the air in his palm, the only evidence of Elsa’s anger that had escaped the room. Elsa raised her hands again but Jack showed no care. Instead he just remained smiling at the little frozen droplets.

“Impressive.”

Elsa refused to respond. The spirit didn’t seem to expect one though as he continued to smirk his lopsided smile and jumped off the balcony. Floating a few feet away from the railing Jack folded his hands in front of him. One hand remaining firmly locked around his staff, the water above him freezing in place before they could land on him.

The queen silently marveled at how calm he was as he floated hundreds of feet in the air.

“What did Kristoff want, must’ve done something to annoy you, huh?” Elsa didn’t answer but she felt the temperature around her drop. Clutching the chair, frost spread out from beneath her fingers.

“So did the king annoy you..” Jack muttered, Elsa glared at him and huffed in a breath.

“I am not annoyed.” Elsa snapped. Jack looked very skeptical. Neither of them spoke for a second but the wind whirled around them in a panic.

“You lied.” Jack tilted his head at Elsa’s sudden accusation. “You said you were leaving.”

“Thats a strong word, I came back to take care of something.” Jack admitted. “I was stopping a nightmare.”
Elsa’s blood boiled again. Who’s? How had he done it, was there no limits to the magic Jack had? A nightmare wasn’t a tangible thing, it only existed in your mind there was no real danger in a dream. It was merely another lie!

“What nightmare?” was the only question Elsa could manage.

“Your sister’s, I stopped it and then I was gonna leave but that king tied me to a bed.” Jack sounded almost humored at the scenario. Elsa surely wasn’t.

“Another spirit creates the little bastards.” Jack’s voice grew theatrical and easy, as if he was about to recite a play to a group of school children. “So several lovely spirits are forced to stop them, stop the torment that they plague on the world.” Elsa wanted to shut him up, stop this ridiculous story, but her curiosity overtook her.

“And why do they do that?” Elsa asked, her voice was harsh compared to Jacks.

“Because they’re afraid of him, they want to save the world from what he can do.”

“What can he do?” She couldn’t squash the questions bubbling inside her.

“He takes your fear, fear of whatever you can think up and kills you with it.” Jack's voice dropped to a whisper; it sounded as if he had revealed a grand secret. Elsa clenched her hands together, she had not heard of this fear hungry spirit. Though there was not much she knew about magic besides her forest and the little she had been taught by the trolls.
Nonetheless she had little interest in meeting this monstrous spirit.

“And who is this spirit? You?”

Jack laughed as if a joke had been said.

“No queeny, not me. The boogeyman.” Jack's stage whisper made the name sound like it was of a king or a deadly monster, Elsa wasn’t sure.
Sitting up Elsa drew back the frost that surrounded the chair. Inching it back into that secret place inside her, drawing it to her command.

“Why are you telling me this?”
Jack shrugged. “You needed a reason as to why I was here, now you have one.”

“So you were fighting the boogeyman?” Elsa said skeptically. Jack nodded halfheartedly.

“His nightmares so yeah, I-I was.” Jack sighed, kicking away some snow. Elsa didn’t speak, but her head rose slightly.

“And you’re afraid of the boogeyman?”

“No more than you are of me.”

A crackling filled the air and both spirits looked up to see shards of ice and frost crawl out of the ceiling. Sharp deadly if one were to fall on them.

“I’m not afraid of you.” Elsa said evenly. It wasn’t technically a lie. Jack shifted in his seat awkwardly. Elsa even thought he was blushing for a moment.

“I-I really don’t want to create an eternal storm or whatever Olaf called it-” Elsa shot up from her seat and Jack’s words stopped.

Waving her hands together the snow and ice that scattered across the room shot into the air. Elsa heard a loud shriek as a large piece of ice shot past Jack and to her outstretched arms.
With her hands curled together the winter storm formed a sphere, whirling through the air then with a rush, shooting out the door and towards the fjord below. With a sigh Elsa heard a large crash as the ice and snow slammed into the water. Plunging itself into its watery grave.

Panting Elsa slowly unclenched her hands, her gaze focused on the door. The blow had knocked it off the hinges and a large frosty crack went down the center of it.

“That was amazing..” Jack said slowly after a minute.

Ignoring him Elsa marched over to the door and with a wave of her hand an icy blast lifted it off the floor and against the wall.

“How’d you do that, I mean if I could- breaking a door with, how?” Elsa felt her shame grow at Jack’s awed voice. Turning Elsa flinched at Jack’s look, only giddy admiration and joy filled his face. No fear, no anger, not even disapproval for destroying the room. And he just continued to ramble on as if this was the greatest thing, this odd spirit had ever seen. Praising her, admiring her.

Not only her magic, but her. Her control and skill.

“Enough!” Jack quickly closed his mouth, silencing his fawning.

Taking a deep breath Elsa tried to calm her head. If she were to take Jack to Ahtohallan they could part on amicable terms. She would be in her element, in the birthplace of the forest's spirits surrounded by an icy haven only she knew. She would be safe and in control if Jack tried to do anything.

There was also the chance that Nokk would deny him, drown him before he could even step foot on the glacier.

But Elsa was no murder she wouldn’t allow that.

“I have a new deal.”

Jack looked surprised at her proclamation but nodded, propping himself up in a chair, his staff balanced on his lap. Peaceful looking.

“I will take you to Ahtohallen and you’ll see your memories, then you’ll leave.” Jack tilted his head.

“My memories?”

Elsa nodded.

“Yeah queeny um, I have very and I mean very few of those, especially about my family.”

“Doesn’t matter, you’ll see them whether you remember them or not.” Elsa watched as Jack's look shifted to disbelief.

“What.”

“From what I’ve seen it shows you anything you wish.” Elsa assured. She needed him to agree, to accept so she could force him to leave.

“Anything?”

“Anything you want.” Jack smiled softly.

“Awfully generous deal.”

“I wish for us to be..on peaceful terms.”

Jack shrugged and let out a breath, swinging his staff over his shoulder he walked over.

“Sounds good to me.”

Elsa nodded and stuck out her hand. Jack quickly slid his into hers.

“Deal?”

A gust of wind swirled around them.

“Are you in on this deal Gale, stop helping me if I accept?” Jack asked and Elsa couldn’t help but smile. The breeze ruffled Jack’s hair and pushed him towards her.

“Deal.” Jack shook her hand once then quickly dropped it, his face turning pink.

“I-do you wanna go now, then.” Jack swallowed, tripping over his words. The wind picked up and Elsa blushed as she felt her hair lift above her head.

“Yes, but-” Elsa hesitated, this was a stupid request but if she was never to see Jack again, she figured it wouldn’t be the worst idea.

“We leave your way.” Jack frowned in confusion.

“Huh?”

Gale whistled in agreement at Elsa’s idea.

“Fly, fly us there.”

Jack let out a small laugh and smirked.

“You trust me too?”

“When else will I get the chance?”

Jack laughed harder. The edges of his eyes crinkled at her logic.

“Fair enough.”

Elsa extended her hand arching it as if asking him to dance. After a second Jack took it and Gale threw the two of them into the air. Lurching up Elsa quickly grabbed Jack’s other arm as her legs went out beneath her.

Though it was nauseating, and unnatural Elsa could admit it was much smoother than the first time Gale had taken her into the air in the form of a raging, defensive tornado.
Jack though had no problem as he led them out onto the balcony. He acted as if he had learned to fly instead of walk as a child.

Gale swept them out onto the fjord and Elsa winced droplets of water and ice slapped against her face.

“You’re doing phenomenal!” Jack cried and Elsa gave him a wobbly smile. She felt as if the air was getting squeezed out of her lungs as Gale flew them across the sea.
Twenty minutes later Elsa was debating her choice. The rain had picked up and was now streaming into her eyes making it nearly impossible for the snow queen to see. Beneath them the sea was growing choppy with waves picking up and lapping at their feet.

Elsa opened her mouth to call to Jack but the wind stole her voice. She could no longer hear herself think and Jack was swaying in the wind One hand was firmly gripping his staff and the other hers but Elsa could see the unease in Jack’s eyes.

Silently Elsa hoped Nokk would appear, to ease the storm. Another darker thought plagued her mind though, was Nokk trying to stop Jack? Would he risk killing her just to keep Ahtohallen safe?
Forcing herself to stay calm Elsa took a deep breath. Nokk wouldn’t risk hurting her, despite what she thought. The spirits had to stay peaceful with each other in order for the forest to stay protected; she knew that.

Her last shred of forced belief shattered though as Jack screamed something and the wind beneath her feet disappeared. One moment Elsa was falling through the air, Jack slamming against her then the next she was plunged into the icy depths below the air knocked from her lungs.

Chapter Text

Jack was drowning again. Water filled his nose, and the icy ocean clung to his skin and clothes pulling him down into the depth below.

Where was Gale? The spirit had only ever once let Jack fall, they had a pattern, a friendship. One that Jack hoped hadn’t been forgone just because of his deal with Elsa. The salt stung as Jack forced his eyes open, but the winter spirit could barely notice it compared to the fear that took hold of him.

He, he was drowning! There was no more air for him to breathe! Flailing in the deep Jack felt something soft and silky catch his hand but a sharp pain sent his hand away. A swarm of frozen bubbles filled his vision and Jack thought he saw Elsa swimming above him frantically flying to the surface. Clawing at her dress Jack followed her but when he was inches away from holding onto her for dear life something flashed in front of him.

Breaking through the surface Jack took in far too much air for his lungs and coughed wildly as he wrapped himself around Elsa. The queen let out a gasp as Jack wrapped his arms around her shoulders, dragging her into the water below.

Elsa spit out a mouthful of water. “Let go of me!”

Jack didn’t. He was too terrified to dare battle these waves himself.

Above the waves and wind Jack could hear neighing. The sound of hooves rushing at him. Charging towards him, echoing above and even underneath his flailing body.

Clutching Elsa tighter Jack watched as something flashed by.

“Where’s that horse!” Jack shrieked. Elsa gagged as water flew into her mouth and Jack accidently forced her head below. Hauling her above the water, Jack watched as with a large gust of wind the horse appeared atop a wave.

For a moment the horse just stood, translucent and angry. Then it vanished.

Jack bit back a scream as a wave crashed against them. Too many unpleasant memories were flooding his mind. Ironic isn’t it, you’ll die trying to find me. Mary’s voice slowly grew in his head taunting him.

It was then, amidst his fear and memories that something rammed into Jack. It knocked the air out of him and sent him flying away from Elsa. Swallowing a mouthful of salt the winter spirit gagged as he kicked his way to the surface.

Wiping at his eyes Jack looked up to see the horse, staring down at him.

“Hi…good pony-I..” Jack didn’t get to answer though as the horse took his hood in his mouth and dragged him below. Jack felt his ears pop and his chest tighten as the horse snorted and ran through the water. It was dark and oh so cold.

Clawing at his hoodie Jack tried to throw it off him but the water and pressure had all but glued it to his skin.

Mary was right, Jack was going to die in this ocean! Well, could a spirit die? Sandy had but technically he’d come back. Could Jamie bring him back like he had for Sandy?

The winter spirit snapped back into focus. He didn’t necessarily want his last thoughts to be debating if he could die. There wasn’t much else to focus on though.

Abruptly though the horse dropped Jack. A stream of bubbles escaped its nose as it snorted in frustration. Pawing in the water the horse stared at Jack. The winter spirit was too terrified to move but also could feel his body reaching its limit. A large swoosh followed by a crack sounded through the sea.
Looking up Jack saw the water part above him.

As the wind pushed the wall of water to the side a wall of ice came down holding it in place. The second Gale touched Jack’s skin a large gust of wind swept him up and the ice crumbled.

Jack felt sick as Gale threw him into the air. Regaining his balance Jack looked down to see Elsa standing on a large snowflake shaped ice raft holding his staff.

Landing next to her, Jack immediately crumpled. Sprawling out on his back Jack looked up at the dark clouds above him.

Elsa was staring at him in horror.

“I-are you alright…”

Jack tried to nod but instead just rolled over and vomited into the sea. When Jack managed to look up, he saw Nokk inches from his head. The winter spirit just sighed and lowered his head.

“If it's gonna kill me let it, maybe I’ll see Mary quicker then..might speed this up.”

“Nokk, enough.” Elsa snapped sliding between the two of them, forcing the horse’s head away from Jack.

The creature was calm but the storm above raged on. Perhaps it was still angry? Jack shook his head, as long as he wasn’t drowning he didn’t mind if the horse was mad.

Still being amicable felt like it was a good idea.

“Thank you…thank you sea horse for not killing me..” Jack stammered managing a shaky grimace. The horse snorted and Jack flinched, jumping to his feet. Inching next to Elsa, Jack leaned in close.

“Can it leave?”

The winter queen scoffed and clambered onto Nokk causing the icy raft to jolt halfway beneath the water. Steadying himself Jack clutched his staff closely.

“He’s giving us a ride.” Jack opened his mouth in protest, but Elsa held up a hand. “No you cannot fly, Nokk is the only one who knows the way to Ahtohallan.”

“I’m sure the wind knows how to get there…right Gale?” Jack looked up, expecting a gust of wind to hit him. Not a single breeze blew by. The winter spirit felt oddly vulnerable without his companion.

“He…they…the horse tried to drown me!” Jack shrieked, throwing a hand up. Elsa pursed her lips in thought.

“I..yes, and I apologize. He won’t hurt you anymore.” Jack blinked and wiped water out of his eyes.

“Then why’d he do it in the first place!”

“He..he doesn’t want anyone to find Ahtohallan he didn’t know your not...bad”

Jack frowned at the word choice.

Looking over at Elsa, Jack grimaced. She was silently begging him, her icy eyes burning into his. She did look a little bit guilty. And now guilt gnawed at Jack at his faltering thoughts.

Jack looked away wanting to ignore her, but his only other option was to stay here in this sad ocean and with Gale unable to help Jack very much doubted he could swim his way back to shore.

Very begrudgingly Jack climbed up behind Elsa. Jack had to admit he hated this horse. The water he was..floating? Sitting on? Made him feel a bit sick, a bit like he’d fall through at any moment with nothing to grab onto to save himself.

“You said you didn’t know how to ride. So, for your own sake.” Elsa said, and Jack felt something cold slide around his waist. Looking down Jack saw an icy rope securing him to Elsa. Something you would fashion for a child, so they didn’t hurt themselves when learning. It was a little embarrassing to say the least.

“Thank you. Now as long as I don’t die, I believe I’ll be content.”

“I thought spirits couldn’t die.” Elsa said sharply, rolling her eyes as Nokk cantered off. Jack lurched forward but caught himself at the last second.

“I-Age doesn’t kill me, but no one said anything about drowning, I’ve done it once after all and I really don’t want to do it again.”

Much to Elsa’s credit she didn’t turn around at the comment. Jack had to admit it was impressive, certainly not the reaction he would have had.

The ride was choppy and quiet. Elsa offered no conversation, and Jack was busy trying to keep from getting sick again as the Nokk jumped from wave to wave. The storm was still raging on above but Elsa seemed to have the horse in line as it obeyed her every movement.

Jack was soaked now, and he could have sworn Elsa was riding them into every wave she could but eventually the rain cleared. And in its place snow fell. The sight was such an odd thing that Jack didn’t register it for a second until the thick clumps of white landed on his lashes.

Breathing deeply Jack felt a new sense of cold, the spray of the sea and ocean mixing with the typical snow and ice he loved. It was kind of glorious and he felt a little more stable on the Nokk, less like he was about to die.

“We’re here.” Jack looked up and peered over Elsa’s shoulder. On the horizon was a large glacier. As he looked at its Jack felt something strange come over him. A deja-vu of sorts.

A name danced on the tip of his tongue. Several in fact, but he couldn’t sound them out. Couldn’t form them in his head.

It was terrible.

Nokk slowed and Jack saw the ocean had frozen over creating a land bridge for them as they got closer. The Nokk happily trotted on the bridge, seamlessly going from conquering the waves to sliding across the ice.

The horse gave an expecting shake of his head as he stopped at the edge of the glacier.

“Shall we?” Elsa asked with a wave of her hand and the ice around Jack’s waist disappeared. Sliding off Nokk Jack nodded as he wobbled, regaining his balance.

“Good pony.” Jack muttered under his breath as he reached out and hesitantly gave the Nokk a single pat on the neck. Wiping his hand on his pants he watched as Elsa breathed deeply and looked around.
In front of them a tunnel sprawled out, carved into the ice, sliding deep into the ground.

Jack had a shiver of apprehension go down his spine. His mind was racing, what secrets about himself would he uncover? What people did he forget, who did his icy death deem unimportant to him? Would he be able to look at himself the same way after this?

“Come on, it’s fine.” In front of him Elsa stood, her hands extended to the tunnel. How cute, she thought the ice was what he was afraid of.

Jack nodded and swung his staff over his shoulder. Elsa went ahead of him, traversing the tunnel with ease, tracing her hand down the icy wall. Jack watched as with a wave of her hand the ice lit up, illuminating a soft blue glow.

The light faded for a moment then was replaced by a bright spark. A spark that reminded Jack of the northern lights. Jack suddenly had the feeling something was alive in here. A song echoed off the walls. Four sharp notes of song that sent shivers down Jack. Elsa though seemed ecstatic as she raced ahead, Jack forgotten.

Jack!

Mary was here as well it seemed.

“Go find them.” Jack furrowed his brows at Elsa’s request as she turned back to him, suppressing a smile as they stopped in a large cavern.

“How? You said they’d be here, my memories. How am I supposed to find something I don’t know?”

Elsa tilted her head in thought.

“What do you remember, start there.” Elsa went back to tracing the wall. Occasionally humming that same short four noted melody.

Jack scoffed. The glacier rumbled beneath his feet and a crack spread across the ice.

Elsa let out a noise of surprise and looked at Jack expectantly.

“Jack!” Mary’s voice was louder now, and Elsa looked up in surprise.

“Who is that?”

Jack didn’t answer but a small smile spread across his face. The glacier rumbled again, and a large creak sounded. Jack looked down to see the ice crumbling beneath his feet.

Before he could move the floor went out from under him.

“Jack!” Elsa and Mary’s voices mingled into one as Jack landed in the bottom of a large pit. It was so cold, but the most surprising thing was the people around him. Gorgeous statues, lifelike memories of people long gone. And all made of ice.

Some Jack recognized, children and people he had seen his first night as a spirit. The ones from Burgess, the ones that had ignored him like he was nothing.

“Jack!” Mary’s voice was there. Actually, there not just an echo or a voice in his head. Jack turned and tears fell down his face.

It was her.

His sister, his baby sister, just as his broken memories showed!

Well not exactly, she was quite a bit older, and her voice was more mature, but he knew it was her!

Silently Jack watched as the frozen memory moved around, going about its role. Jack had the urge to hug her, but something kept him from disrupting the memory. Instead he watched as the ice woman walked around occasionally interacting with other statues.

“I’m sorry Mary I know this is hard for you-” Jack choked back a sob as his mother walked by. Her hair was longer and frizzy, she was older than Jack had seen. She was comforting another Mary, probably in her late twenties as they huddled next to a lake.

It took Jack a moment to realize it was his pond. Guilt swarmed him but Jack continued on. Wiping at his face Jack sat down. For a moment he just listened.

So many voices spoke, so many he recognized but couldn’t place.

Occasionally a statue of himself would walk by even. Jack had to admit he didn’t like that. He felt like an imposter as he watched himself do countless things he couldn’t remember. At one point he would be chopping wood then the next he was much younger and holding a baby Mary.

There were a few constant people that appeared. His mother was there always, Mary came soon after Jack was around ten and stayed for most of his memories. At one point Jack thought he saw a man similar to him and Mary, but he didn’t appear for long. From what Jack saw there was nothing with him past Mary’s infancy.

It was a little overwhelming, but also so lovely.

“Jack..” his name didn’t sound like his anymore. He felt like he was someone else, someone different from the one his memories showed. Someone entirely else.

“Jack!” Someone tapped him on the shoulder and Jack screamed.

Elsa flinched and stepped back the ice beneath her frosting over.

Jack clutched a hand to his chest. Elsa flushed and appeared to be trying to force out an apology.

“You..have you found what you needed?” Elsa asked, wringing her hands. Jack paused, what was he looking for again?

“What?”

“The…umm…a grave?” Elsa muttered and yanked at her fingers clearly sensing his confusion. Jack frowned at the action, it looked like she was trying to pull them clean off her hands.
Pulling her hands apart, Jack shook his head.

“No..I got a little distracted.”

“Well, I suppose…” She cut herself off. She looked almost guilty. “We should find it, yes?” Jack didn’t answer.

Truthfully, he never wanted to leave this place. He would be perfectly content to live in this glacier, to be surrounded by his family once more. Even if they weren’t actually there.

“If..if you want.”

Jack looked around. He had to admit he felt a headache building at the sight of everything. It wasn’t like he could come back here, was it? Would that horse, would Elsa allow him back if he asked?

“You can come back!” Elsa blurted all of a sudden. It took Jack a second to realize she had actually said it aloud and it wasn’t a figment of his imagination.

“Once, once you find what you want..if you come back, I’ll let you have a day of seeing everything.” Jack opened his mouth to respond, his brow raised in skepticism.

Was this a trick?

“You said I can’t come back, that's a rude thing to promise if-” Elsa sighed deeply.

“I’m saying you can, for this, you can return for a day.” Jack blushed. Right. Elsa muttered something under her breath and waved her hands. The ice statues gently parted but continued to reenact their chosen memory.

Jack felt a twinge of anger with Elsa messing with the statues. Not that they were real but still, he didn’t necessarily want her down here with him. To see things even he didn’t know about.

“But first, we need to find they’re resting places.” Elsa said, once more keeping her words careful.

Jack sighed and slowly followed her.

The two of them split up, taking half of the icy cavern. Despite the abundance of things Jack had, or well hadn’t, experienced in his memories the task went relatively quickly.

Well Elsa went through each memory; Jack preferred the method of anything he recognized or that didn’t include Mary was wistfully cast aside.

For the next hour or so it went well, except for the occasional embarrassing horror Jack would come across. At one point he heard a stifled gasp and saw Elsa scramble away from a memory of him kissing a girl.

Seeing that memory hurt Jack in a new way. For his family he was able to recall some of the love he had felt but this girl invoked nothing in him. Even if he had loved her the feeling was long gone now. Once more the feeling of being an imposter settled in his stomach.

“What is this?” Jack bit his lip and turned to Elsa, praying nothing terrible was there, something he couldn’t explain. Instead, he saw a large tree as tall as a skyscraper, and wide as a house.

This. This he could explain.

“It’s Big Root.” Elsa sighed, a noise that indicated she wasn’t fully satisfied with Jack’s answer and a noise that pleased Jack greatly.

“It’s in Santoff Claussen..” Jack said slowly, watching as Elsa’s nose scrunched in confusion and annoyance.

He had to admit it was a little cute to see her try and wrap her head around something.

“It’s a village in Siberia.”

“What type of tree is this? I’ve never seen anything quite like it.” Elsa asked as she ran a hand down Big Root’s trunk.

“It’s not a normal tree, it’s magic, father time found it, it was made out of stardust after a meteor hit and the tree was the only thing that survived.”
Gale sent a large gust of wind through the cavern. Jack waved his hand, and the spirit calmed down a little.

“Father time,” Elsa muttered. “Of course..”

“You have your odd little friends, I have mine.” Jack whispered as Gale shot between the two of them.

The silence returned. Every so often though Jack would catch Elsa staring back up at Big Root. It could have been that there were several, several statues of his mother around him but Jack felt a bit like he was getting scolded for his manners.

“Well if you let me come back, I can take you to Santoff Claussen if you want?” the question came out as a squeak. A pathetic noise.

Elsa didn’t answer, something different caught her attention.

Jack opened his mouth to crack a joke but following her gaze he saw two large headstones. Names were inscribed at the top but Jack refused to read them.

Looked like he had found what he wanted after all.

Chapter Text

Elsa’s gaze went to Jack as he stared at the stones. Her palms were sweaty despite the cold. Jack was just staring there in the distance, his eyes unfocused. Maybe she should call his name, or poke him. Something to get him back to normal.

Elsa just stood there.

On one grave was the name, Ida overland and the other Mary Overland.

Names unfamiliar to Elsa.

“I’ll let you be.” Elsa murmured but Jack didn’t answer. Stepping back Elsa quickly hurried back to Big Root. The tree had a massive spiral door on its bark and occasionally a memory would go in and out of the tree.

It was tempting to join them, Elsa had to admit, but the last time she had interfered with these memories and followed them into their little places she had drowned.

Or well..froze.

Neither were very appealing.

Curling up next to one of the massive roots Elsa looked back at Jack. He had sunk to his knees.

That was good, Elsa figured, he’d moved slightly.

Jack then stood and practically ran over to Elsa.

The movement was too sudden and intense Elsa nearly hit the man with a wall of ice. Recovering in time to turn the wall into a pattern of frost on the floor Elsa watched as Jack crumbled next to her.

He was sobbing and sniffling, tears rolling down his face.

Elsa froze as Jack laid against her shoulder, suppressed tears and vulnerability erupting from the spirit.

Jack shook his head and wiped at his face, turning pink. From his crying or embarrassment Elsa couldn’t tell.

“Ikantdwotis.” The spirit's cry was muffled and broken beyond Elsa’s understanding as he slowly slid down her and his head landed on her leg.

“I’m sure you can..” Elsa whispered as she loosely patted his hair. Jack shook his head. At least she had guessed correctly.

“I-I’m not theirs-” Elsa was very confused.

“Im… I'm sorry?”

“I’m not even some human, I’m not their Jack-” Jack wailed, turning so he was looking up at Elsa. The snow queen nodded slowly. Jack had mentioned something about drowning earlier, but the
fables she’d read said Jack Frost was immortal.

“I-you..I’m sure they’d love to see you anyway.” Elsa stammered. Jack sniffed and looked up at her in surprise.

“You guys didn’t wanna see me.” He whimpered. “The guardians didn’t…what makes them wanna?”

Elsa bit her lip. Okay so perhaps they hadn’t been the most cordial with Jack, but before she had known who he was she hadn’t not wanted to see him. That night in the forest, she’d actually quite liked his company. Well the five minutes they’d spent together.

“Well I didn’t purely because I thought you could kill us.” Elsa whispered. Jack's mouth fell open.

“I’ve never killed anyone!” he shrieked and jumped up.

Elsa nodded quickly.

“Of course, but the stories painted you as not the most moral-”

Jack was on his feet now, wiping at his face wildly.

“If anyone here should have killed someone it's you!” he yelled, his voice breaking. Elsa sat stunned as a look of horror spread across his face.

Slowly Jack covered his mouth and another sob broke in his throat.

“I-if you mean the winter Olaf mentioned..” Elsa drew in a long breath. Jack wasn’t in his right mind, that much was clear. “You’re right, I was very fortunate that more people weren’t hurt.”

“I’m so sorry, that was-” Jack whispered, a hand still clamped over his mouth. Elsa blinked at these words. An apology.

Well perhaps he needed one as well.

“I’m very sorry as well.” Elsa said standing. “I was rash and foolish, I shouldn’t have treated you the way I was.”

Jack blinked.

“Wait someone did that to you?” The temperature dropped at least thirty degrees at the question.

Elsa sighed and waved her hands before clasping them together. When she loosened her grip an icy handkerchief was in her palms. Walking over to Jack she handed him the garment.

“Somewhat, but that’s not important.” she whispered as Jack wiped at his face.

“What-no…shit, yes it is! What happened to you!” Jack whimpered as he dabbed at his eyes. Elsa waved her hands and an icy bench appeared beneath them. Pushing Jack down gently, Elsa sat.

“We’re here for you, not me.” Elsa said softly. Jack sniffed and crumpled the handkerchief in his lap. He nodded seriously. Elsa let out a breath of relief, he seemed to be somewhat better.

“Of course, yep…I-i’m sorry queeny.”

“And I’m sure that no matter what, that girl would love to see you.” Elsa said slowly. Jack looked up wide eyed. For a moment Elsa was scared he would burst into a fresh wave of tears.

Elsa chewed on her lip and then made up her mind.

“I know personally, it…it can be hard to see family after a long time away..but.” Elsa swallowed hard. “It can be worth it.” She hated this pep talk. Oh it was awful, how she was tiptoeing around Anna and her own eternal winter disaster. It would’ve been easier to watch Jack break down again.

“Really?” Jack whispered. Elsa nodded.

“Of course, I don’t know what I would do without my sister, but I know I would do the same thing as you if given the chance..” Elsa neglected to say that she nearly had, after all the memory of
clutching Anna’s frozen body wasn’t a pleasant one.

“It doesn’t matter if you’re a spirit or human, an immortal or a drowning man..” Elsa had to wrap this up. “You’re still Jack. You’re still her brother.”

Jack froze. For a second he just stared at her mouth slightly ajar.

“ThatwasthekindestthingsomeonehassaidtomecanIkissyou-”

Before Elsa understood the noise Jack had made, the ground below them trembled. Elsa looked down expecting the ice to be cracking but instead two massive black vines were spiralling out of the
ground.

Jack let out a yelp and grabbed Elsa’s hand yanking her a few feet away as the large thorny, dead vine shattered their bench.

“What is that!” Jack cried letting out a sob filled moan as he dragged Elsa to Big Root, the vines nipping at their feet. Pushing Jack up the stairs Elsa tried to pull open the tree's door only to be met
with a large hollow room, without even a floor.

“Do you not remember-”

“I don’t remember half of this stuff!” Jack whimpered. Elsa nodded.

“Right now..what is that?” Elsa asked as she waved her hands and large icicles spread out on the ground slowing the massive vines as they wrapped around memories and inched towards Jack.

Jack had paled and was staring in shock at the vines.

“What do you mean, what is that? I don’t know! I thought this icy cave came with it!” he shrieked as he reached in his pocket. “Here distract it with the magic stick!”

Elsa winced as Jack shoved his staff into her hands and pulled out his snowglobe. A large gust of wind quickly knocked the globe out of his hands and toward an unsuspecting Mary.

“GALE!” Elsa couldn’t tell which of them scolded the wind first.

“I-I get that-” Jack stammered. He quickly turned to Elsa. “Stick!” was the only word he managed to get out before he took off running towards the snowglobe.

“It’s not a dog!” Elsa shot back as Jack darted into the memories, as they nudged the snowglobe around.

Elsa looked down at Jack’s staff. It was unnatural in her hands and Elsa feared she would more or less kill them both if she attempted to use it. Placing it against Big Root Elsa froze a vine with a flick of her wrist as she watched Jack duck under it.

For a second Jack looked at her and beamed a tear stained grin, as he held up the snowglobe triumphantly.

It would have been a little adorable if it wasn’t so sad looking, Elsa thought to herself as Jack ran back to her.

The snowglobe slammed against Big Roots root and a portal appeared, with a triumph yell from Jack.

“In-in, get in!” Jack yelled as he raced up the stairs grabbing her hand.

Grabbing Jack’s staff at the last second Elsa didn’t bother hesitating as they dove into the swirling light.
<><><><><><><><>
Something hard hit Elsa’s nose as she fell face first into the dirt. She couldn’t breathe. There was dirt blocking her lungs and mouth.

A hand firmly clamped her shoulder as she was turned over. Her vision was blurry and she felt sick as the world swarmed around her. Slowly, whoever it was lifted her up.

“Queeny!” Jack was kneeling over her now, panic stricken. Another man was behind Jack. A very old man, with a very long beard.

In fact it went down to his knees. And on the edge of his nose little spectacles were balanced as he was fiddling with very long sleeves.

“Wizard-” she slurred. Her voice sounded different. And it hurt her head to talk.

“How hard would you say she hit her head?” the man asked Jack.

Jack.

Right. Him.

Elsa blushed as Jack lowered himself to her level and slowly sat down.

“I don’t know, Gale dropped her!”

“Gale?” The wizard echoed his brows knitting together in confusion. Elsa watched as Jack looked desperately between her and the wizard. Was Jack upset? Had she upset him, hurt his feelings again?

“The wind!”

“Oh my, that's quite out of character for them.”

“Jack, did you know I don’t hate you-” better to be safe than sorry.

“That’s what I- wait what.” Elsa frowned as the winter spirit turned to her. Hadn’t he heard her?

“Yeah…I don’t hate you, in fact I think you’re cool.” she couldn’t help but giggle at her pun. “Or warm, hot…like that happy feeling you get. You’re hot and cold.”

Jack was open mouthed. The wizard was also turning a shade of pink as he shuffled away from her, embarrassed.

“Who is this woman you said?”

“Imma queen!” Elsa yelled in joy. A realization then came over her. She was a queen. She was supposed to be diplomatic, that's what she always told Anna. Folding her hands on her lap Elsa closed
her mouth and leaned back. She heard Jack let out a small grunt as he propped her back up, stopping her from landing in the dirt.

“She’s not lying about that, she’s from Arendelle but the rest I-I don’t think-”

“I’m not lying!” Elsa insisted. “I think you’re beautiful!” A fistful of Jack’s hoodie forced him close. Elsa smiled as Jack’s breath landed on her face.

Diplomacy was overrated.

“You’re so beautiful…like a perfect winter lake.”

Jack gawked at her in shock. “T-thank you queeny, you’re very pretty as well.” he mumbled as he pulled away from her.

“See Imma queen, he said so!” Elsa gasped as she wobbled halfway to her knees. The wizard nodded sagely. Elsa giggled as Jack leaned next to her. He truly was perfect. From his icy eyes, to the
messy hair that she bet couldn’t be tamed no matter what.

“How far did she fall?” the wizard muttered.

“I-don’t- too far! Elsa you fell too far.” Jack stammered as he slid around Elsa. The snow queen couldn’t help but laugh as Jack wrapped an arm around her shoulder. More to keep her from falling to the ground but it was a gesture she enjoyed regardless.

“Jack, do you hate me?” Elsa hissed as she flailed her arms only to prod Jack in the eye. “Are you mad at me for-for everything?”

Blinking back tears, the winter spirit shook his head. “No-no, I don’t hate you Elsa.”

“Good. I’d hate it if you hated me.”

Another realization came to Elsa and a dramatic gasp escaped her.

“If you don’t hate me, why’d you let…let Gale drop me!” she whispered as she turned to Jack.

Elsa’s face twisted into a sour expression.

“That’s rude.” she whispered. “It’s rude to-to…drop someone..I believe it is at least, my mother didn’t tell me if it was but it could hurt someone.”

Jack was staring at her. Elsa blushed under his gaze of shock and confusion, to focused on him to realize he wasn’t staring in the way she was.

“Elsa dear.” Elsa turned to the wizard who was slowly inching a hand out to her. “Would you like to go inside? I believe that fall may have done more harm than you think.”

“Yes, let's get inside!” Jack answered before Elsa could open her mouth. Turning Elsa swatted him on the shoulder.

“Don’t-don’t answer for me!”

Jack nodded and slid Elsa to her feet.

“So sorry queeny, but we do need to go inside.”

Elsa felt her mouth form a silent o, but inside where? Elsa whipped her head around, but quickly regretted doing so as a wave of bile hit her throat. Peering past the wavy earth, Elsa couldn’t make
out any buildings or houses. Just large trees and hills with little door frames.

Door frames.

That was odd.

“Inside Big Root, remember? Vines started chasing us, in uh Ahtoh-Ahto something and we went through the snowglobe.”

“And Gale threw me into the dirt-” Elsa slurred as she stumbled against Jack and towards a massive oak.

Jack gave a half hearted shrug. “I mean, kinda yeah..” Elsa nodded happily and looked up at the giant tree in front of her. A loud squeal escaped her and despite the pain in her head she couldn’t help but bounce on her feet.

Grabbing Jack’s hoodie Elsa turned him towards her.

“It’s the tree!” she whispered. “The one you said you’d take me to!” Jack cracked a smile and Elsa felt something bloom inside her. Oh it was lovely to do that. She couldn’t remember the last time she’d made someone besides her family smile. Well smile in a way that didn’t mean she’d done something for them, or just merely her status as a spirit.
Make them smile just being Elsa.

Being half carried up a set of stairs by Jack, the snow queen watched as the wizard pushed open the oval door.

“Jack..” Elsa whispered, and a yawn escaped her as they stepped into the tree. Such an experience going inside a tree, if Elsa wasn’t so loopy she might have focused on it instead of the winter spirit in front of her. “I’m gonna go to sleep.”

Unlike Elsa, Jack perked up at this.

“No-no no no no, you can’t sleep. Not yet, we gotta help your head remember?” Elsa scoffed then pinched her palm for doing so. That was rude, her mother would be disappointed. But it wasn’t like she was dying!

Elsa jutted out a lip, but didn’t argue as a compromise came to mind. Sneaking a look at Jack, Elsa slid her gaze over to the plump couch in the corner.

“Fiiiiiine.” she slurred. “But, we sit.” with a dramatic flail Elsa pointed to the couch. “And you stay with me, and we sit. Together. On the couch.”

“Yes, keep her company well I go fix up a concoction for her head.” the wizard said with an approving nod of his head. Elsa gave a giddy bounce as Jack nodded. Dragging him over to the couch Elsa happily plopped down. Hesitantly Jack sat down next to her.

“Jack.” his name came out so soft it was practically a breath. Elsa swallowed hard and nodded, trying to drag up some little composure her body was capable of at the moment. “You need to keep me awake, I think.” a large, long yawn punctuated her point.

Jack nodded and grabbed his staff. And that was how Elsa spent her first night in Big Root. Loopy and fighting off sleep as a spirit traced drawings of frost on the floor before her.

Chapter Text

Elsa woke up with a start. Instead of draped across a worn plump couch she was in a goose down bed with a heavy quilt drawn to her chin. A panic sent goose bumps down her arms and Elsa felt the closest she could to a chill on her spine.

Pushing back the thick quilt Elsa looked down at herself. She couldn’t help but give a small sigh of relief as she was still in her dirt covered dress from the night, though it was quickly replaced with disgust as she wiped stray dirt off her skirt.

Sliding out of bed the snow queen quickly fixed the blankets before looking around. She was in a bedchamber of sorts. One that was very, very tall, and that had a loft taking up half the ceiling. Tucked away on this floating haven was a large roaring fireplace surrounded by books and what appeared to be a nest. Elsa blinked but it was still there. A nest, made of large branches and blankets of knitted moss.

A sharp knock shook away her questions though.

“Elsa?” A woman's voice accompanied the door opening. Turning around Elsa saw a wavy haired brunette standing in the doorframe. Jack stood a few inches behind her, the winter spirit gave her a little wave as he met her eye. Elsa quickly looked down.

“How are you feeling?” Elsa ignored the woman's question and looked back to Jack.

“This is Katherine by the way.” Jack added with a dramatic wave of his hand. “Or mother goose.”

Elsa’s mouth was dry. Swallowing she twisted her hands together until her skin burned. What was she doing? She didn’t care who this woman was and she most certainly didn’t appreciate waking up in a random room. Taking a deep breath Elsa managed a small nod.

“Want some food?” Jack offered with such ease Elsa would’ve thought they were on a vacation instead of, well whatever this was. Elsa shook her head and sat on the edge of the bed. Curling her hands she felt her nails leave little crescents on her palms.

“Katherine, would you mind if I have a minute alone with Jack please?” Elsa forced her voice to not shake as her fingertips turned white.

“Is everything alright, I hope we didn’t upset you I just-” Elsa cut her off with a raise of her hand, and Jack placed a hand on Katherine’s shoulder.

“It’ll just be a minute, Kat.” Jack said softly. Katherine gave a small smile and squeezed his hand before quickly leaving the room. Elsa waited for the door to click shut before she threw her hands up.

“What is this!” The snow queen shrieked.

Jack easily dodged her first blast of ice, resulting in the shattering of a gold framed mirror. Luckily Gale caught the shards forcing them back in place, like a crude puzzle, before Katherine could be any the wiser.

“That’s rude.” Jack muttered, dodging her question. Elsa ignored him and raised her hands again. This time a large icy blast sent Jack into the wall. With a clatter Jack dropped his staff and raised his hands in surrender.

“Hey..hey hey- Queeny!”

Elsa wasn’t content with that though, and with a flick of her wrist a large icicle pinned Jack against the wall by his hoodie.

“What is this?” Elsa hissed as she walked over to him. Jack was wide eyed in surprise but didn’t bother to reach for his staff.

“I was helping you!” he spat as he tugged at the icicle. “You were so tired; so we gave you a bed!”

“You’re a liar! You were supposed to keep me awake!” Elsa hissed as she prodded a finger into Jack’s chest. She felt Jack’s chest bristle at the action and he gave a small laugh.
“Yes, okay you’re right. You’re very right, and I did! T-Then Ombric came, and we got your head fixed up, he made a =elixir thing to heal you, so we let you sleep.”

Elsa took a small step back. Her face burned. The icicle slowly melted, breaking off in big chunks, dropping Jack to the floor. She didn’t dare look at the winter spirit but she could see him struggling not to laugh. Her hands were shaking now.

“That was amazing.”

The words lured Elsa to look at Jack. He was beaming and looking up at her with joy. “See that's what Anna should’ve done! How is your sister a queen, not you! Well, I guess you are but like- wait yeah how does that work?”

Elsa sank to her feet. He was rambling. She had pinned him to a wall with ice and he was beaming, and praising her again. She didn’t deserve praise, she deserved to be reprimanded, yelled at. Hated.

She needed to conceal.

“Talk to Anna about doing that- like if you could make some magic defense system..” Jack let out a low whistle. “Arendelle wouldn’t be at war so long as you're here, I can promise you that.”

“No. No, I can't do that again.” Elsa whispered. Jack cocked his head.

“Why not? I mean sure there’s probably ethical, legal reasons..what year is it by the way?”

“1851…” Elsa whispered.

“Yeah so you guys have like dungeons and stuff, it’s a little late for medieval torture but cmon I mean it’d fit! It’d be like a massive javelin just bam!” Jack made a mock lunging motion like he was thrusting a sword forward.

“No, no I won’t do that again.”

“Alright, so do you want breakfast? Think you can stomach it?” Elsa’s mouth fell open.

“Let me at least apologize before-” Jack now held up a hand.

“Nah. Don’t worry about it.”

“I just hit you with a piece of ice..” Elsa whimpered as she gestured futilely at the frost-stained wall next to them.

“Yeah, and I scared you, we’re even.” Jack jumped to his feet and extended a hand to Elsa.

“No..no we’re not.” Elsa stammered as Jack pulled her to her feet.

Jack sighed and kicked his staff into the air, catching it, before throwing it over his shoulder. “Would you feel better if you apologize?”

“I could’ve hurt you-”

“Immortal frost spirit can’t do that if you tried, honey.”

Elsa hesitated, her argument falling on her lips. His words did ease some of the guilt gnawing at her stomach.

“I-I’ll buy a new mirror-”

“It’s a magic tree; we can make a new mirror.” Jack placed a hand on the wall and Elsa watched the mirror glass and the cracks disappear. It even had a fresh shine to it as if newly cleaned. With a whistle gale darted away, the mirror perfectly in tack.

“It never happened.” Jack stage-whispered, reaching for her hand, as the frost slid from the wall. Elsa couldn’t help but nod, watching as he paused, drawing his hand back. So nobody but the two of them would know about this. And one of them didn’t care.

Elsa flexed her fingers and felt the temperature drop as her face grew warm.

With a sigh she looked at Jack.

“Yes, I would like some breakfast please.”

0o0o

An icy tray of floating fruit and bread sailed past Elsa’s head. She was currently sitting on a massive tree branch, and despite both Gale and the massive width of the branch Elsa fought to not panic. Jack though was happily sprawled out, his feet dangling in the open air as he was half sliding off the branch.

“If you fall-”

“Can’t die.” Jack whispered as he closed his eyes, relishing in the sun. Elsa frowned slightly and tucked her legs under her tighter, as a breeze swept her hair to the side.

“So what, you wanna do?” Jack asked with a smirk as he rolled over to face her. Elsa chewed a blueberry in thought.
Jack was about to open his mouth when a window slammed open a few feet away.

“Jack! We need you inside!” Elsa gasped as a large man barreled halfway out the window. The man looked at Jack then at Elsa, his surprise written on his face.
“Er..never mind- we will start meeting without you, my boy.”

Elsa watched as Jack’s brow furrowed.

“Meeting?”

“Yes..come..when ready!” the man stuttered and quickly slammed the window shut, muffled russian muttered behind the glass.
Wobbling Elsa stood.

“You should go.” she inched towards the window. Jack didn’t move and the tray slowly landed on the branch. Jack shrugged and stood, extending a hand as he jumped into the air.

“It can wait.”

Elsa shook her head, pulling at her fingers. “No, please, I insist.”

“Those meetings are boring..” he whispered with a lazy smirk, it sounded like he was begging for her to let him stay.
Elsa dismissed the thought of running a hand through the winter spirit's hair as he rolled onto his back. Elsa smiled as an idea came to mind, something Kristoff had told her about Jack and his…coworkers, Kristoff had called them.

“I’d like to meet Santa.” Jack’s face fell.

“You sure?”

Elsa nodded. “Absolutely.”

Ten minutes and a large spiral staircase later Jack was leading Elsa to a massive door. Pushing open the door Elsa saw quite the group at the table before her. Biting her lip she tried not to stare as she flickered her gaze between a massive rabbit, the man from the window, a bird woman and a golden man.
Jack seemed to be waiting for her reaction as he stayed a few steps behind her.

“Who’s this mate?”

Elsa flinched as the rabbit spoke.

“Elsa, my friend.” The snow queen felt Jack’s gaze settle on her at the word. With as much confidence as she could Elsa nodded.

“Yes.” she whispered as Jack pulled out a chair for her. “His friend.” the word felt odd in her mouth, and wasn’t what she would have used. But it wasn’t like there was a better alternative.

“And why is she here?” the rabbit continued. Elsa noticed a slim paintbrush tucked between his massive paws and a half-painted egg on the table in front of him.

“She wanted to meet North.” Jack said, folding his hands on the table and looking at Elsa out of the corner of his icy eyes. Elsa met his gaze and nodded.

“Yes, but if I’m interrupting, I can leave, I’d hate to interrupt your discussion.” Jack let out an awkward laugh and his fingers clutched the table.

“No, please stay. Stay! And hello! I am the Santa! I am North!” Elsa looked up in surprise at the man from the window. He wasn’t quite what she imagined when thinking of Santa but there were a few similarities she supposed. The jolly face, and red clothing did give it away she supposed. The ink creeping onto the edge of his forearms did not though.

“Oh my Jack, she has almost as pretty teeth as you!” Elsa whirled around at the comment. The bird woman was hovering above her chair her hummingbird wings fluttering to fast for Elsa to make them out.

“Excuse me?” Beside her Elsa saw Jack drop his head to his hand in shock.

“Tooth we’ve been over this..” Jack mumbled, his face turning pink. Elsa dug her nails into her palm and fought to not drop her gaze to Jack’s mouth. She was now acutely aware of Jack’s teeth. The way they sparkled like snow, lined up without a single flaw.

“Hey, do you wanna go now?” Elsa tried not to laugh as Jack turned his chair towards her with a loud scraaaap.

“Am I allowed to stay?”

“Yea stay,” the rabbit said quickly as he neatly added little dots to the egg in front of him. “I wanna see frost squirm more.” This time Jack dropped his head to the table and wrapped his arms around it.

“Queeny-”

“Aww that is cute name.” North fawned. Jack went silent. From the far wall there was a small laugh. Elsa turned to see Katherine holding a tea tray and smiling warmly at her. With a wink the woman went back to filling a teacup with the steaming drink.

“We’re just waiting for Ombric and Emily-Jane, then we’ll be all here.” Tooth said, clasping her hands together as her wings lowered her into her chair.
As if on cue, Ombric slammed the doors open muttering under his breath.

“Those birds and squirrels are fighting over nesting sticks.” he said to no one in particular. Elsa watched Jack lift his head slightly at this predicament.
Ombric went on pacing the room mumbling about such problems to himself as Katherine passed out the drinks.

“Where is that wretched girl..” North sighed as he took a long slurp of his tea. Elsa winced at the sound, and briefly recalled the scolding her nanny or parents would have given her if she even dared try it.

“Emily is worse than Jack, we all know this, we just need to start!” The rabbit complained.

“Mother Nature.” Jack whispered. Elsa jumped at his breath on her shoulder as she now noticed him sitting up and next to her, his body half curled into the chair as he rolled his staff along the armrests.

“Wouldn’t that put you out of a job?” she whispered back. Jack stopped all movement as he froze. A sly smile spread across his face.

“You better not tell her that darling.”

A large tremor tore through Elsa. More accurately her chair. Elsa gasped as burning tea spilled over her dress and her chair shook wildly. Beside her she heard Jack curse in surprise and the temperature dropped.

“Emily!” Ombrics scolding voice sounded through the room and a cruel laugh filled the air as the shaking stopped. Gripping her chair Elsa felt Jack place a hand on her shoulder as the door closed. Elsa winced as Jack’s hand tightened his grip at the noise and the room went silent.

It appeared Emily was here after all.

Chapter Text

Jack felt his fingers curl around Elsa’s dress as temperature dropped. Frost spread out from beneath Elsa’s chair, but he couldn’t tell which of them had caused it. Behind him, he heard Katherine set down a tea cup with a clatter.

A gust of wind slammed the door shut, echoing Katherine’s shaking hands.

“Emily,” Jack began, he sweetened his voice, filled it with flattery. “It’s lovely to see you again.” Beneath his hand a shiver went through Elsa’s shoulders. He wanted to tell her it would be fine, that Emily-Jane was more dramatic than anything, but one could never be sure around her. She was as unpredictable as the winds she controlled and as temperamental as the seasons she ruled.

“Hello.” Her velvet voice made Elsa tense up, the snow queens nails digging into the arm rests.

Jack forced a smile and smoothed down the crease on Elsa’s shoulder.

With a clap of thunder a silhouette appeared in front of the door. Jack scoffed and rolled his eyes, beneath him he felt Elsa jolt her shoulder, shaking his hand off in scolding.

With a flick of her raven black hair Emily-Jane sauntered over to an empty chair. Her long green skirts swirled around her, accompanied by a thin layer of mist. Jack couldn’t help but notice the mist hardened into little drops of ice the closer it got to Elsa.

“Hello.” Elsa whispered, her voice cracking.

Emily took her time pulling her chair out and sitting. She didn’t push herself back in though, instead letting vines curl around her, offering a ledge to lounge on.

“Finally, ya here.” Bunny grumbled as Emily flicked a thorn into place.

With a slow turn, Emily focused her gaze on Bunny.

“I’m sure she made up for it.” Emily, waved a hand to Elsa. Behind him Jack heard Katherine suck in a low breath. The winter spirit slumped down in his seat, and pressed his fingertips to his face.

Elsa didn’t flinch, and met Emily’s gaze, guiding Emily to begrudgingly look at her.

“It’s lovely to meet you.” Elsa said calmly, as she clasped her hands on the table. Jack glanced up at Elsa’s demeanor. But he quickly brushed it off, it wasn’t actually that surprising. She’d put up with him more or less, afterall.

“So what are you doing here?” Emily asked, the mist signaled out Elsa, curling into little wisps around her arms and hair. Elsa bristled as a strand fell in her face.

“Emily…”

A gust of wind blew into Jack as Emily smiled serenely at him before turning back to Elsa.

“Shh, Jack.” A mischievous look played on Emily's face at the order and Jack moved his hand to Elsa’s to keep from freezing Emily’s vines.

“It’s merely a question, after all other spirits aren’t permitted here, so why is she?” Emily’s voice turned accusatory as her words sped up, and she bobbed her chin at Elsa.

“She’s my friend, I brought her.” Jack lied. It wasn’t technically the truth; Elsa had all but dragged him here.

Emily scrunched up her face but clasped her hands and sat up straighter.

“I didn’t know making friends was part of your mourning.” She snipped. Ombric stood, interrupting Emily's gibes.

“Shall we begin! We must hurry, I believe I figured out a solution to the squirrels and birds, so let's begin before I forget.” he said quickly, his beard draping over the table.

“Yes, let us.” North echoed, clapping his hands together with a loud thud. “Right, so how are the children?”

Elsa’s grip loosened at her confusion.

“No reports of Pitch, believers are all good.” Bunny mumbled not looking up from his egg as he delicately added another stroke.

Emily's face flickered for a second before returning to serene.

“What do you mean?” Elsa asked, looking around the room. “What believers?”

“We are the guardians!” North boomed, throwing his hands up in pride. Elsa turned to Jack who shrugged.

“We protect the children!” North continued, “Protect them from fear, from the horrors they should not be exposed to till adulthood from-”

“The boogeyman?” North paused, mouth still open. Jack smirked at Elsa’s words.

“Exactly.” the frost spirit drawled.

“How do you know who that is?” Emily-Jane looked like she wanted nothing more than to drive the thorn between her fingers into Elsa’s chest. Elsa sat straighter.

“I heard a story about him.”

“Did you now.”

“Turns out I might have a job as a storyteller.” Jack deadpanned. Emily glared at him, slowly dragging her eyes back to Elsa.

“Thought you might have known him for a different reason.” Emily-Jane sighed, scraping a thorn along the table.

“How so, she’s an adult.” Jack turned to Elsa. “I bet you’ve got enough to worry about without him.”

“She would have once been a child.” Emily-Jane said bitterly, her thorn left a small white line across the table as it chipped away the wood.

Jack scoffed and rolled his eyes.

“What do you mean?”

“My father told me about some of his favorites, and one of them sounds a lot like her.” Emily-Jane said softly, extending a hand to Elsa.

“Father?”

“Favorite?”

Both were muttered at the same time by the two winter spirits.

“Yes, my father, the boogeyman.” Emily said lazily. Jack watched as frost spread across the floor and ice crawled up his chair legs. “He told me about someone like you, a girl so afraid of herself, she isolated herself for years.”

“Emily..” Jack's warning went ignored.

“It could be someone else but I don’t recall many people with magic like yours.” Emily-Jane adjusted the cuff of her dress and shrugged, pushing her hair onto her back.

“Well, besides you I guess but we already know what happened to you.” she said with a well-timed look to Jack.

“Enough Emily-Jane!” Jack snapped, the temperature in the room dropped, and out of the corner of his eye Jack saw Bunny shiver.

“I see why you would want to be friends.” Emily taunted. Slowly as if nothing had happened, she sat back and faced Ombric. Beckoning for him to continue.

As Ombric began to speak his voice faded out. Jack traced the paneling on the wall with his eyes, the wizard's lecture forgotten.
Try as he might, Jack couldn’t escape Emily-Jane’s accusations towards Elsa. Jack thought back to that flicker of fear he thought he had seen in the library. The way it had been pushed away by Elsa, done with such precision.

“Any more nightmares Jack?” Tooth asked, her amethyst eyes shining with worry.

Jack pursed his lips and shook his head. He decided it would be in his best interest to not tell Tooth that he hadn’t really slept in the last few days.

Elsa skimmed her eyes over to him.

“Nightmares?” she echoed. Jack sucked in a breath. Tooth’s wings quivered for a beat then fell still.

“Um, well I-yes I-I’m sorry Jack I shouldn’t have brought it up…truly it's none of…” Tooth trailed off. Jack gripped his staff at her silent reasoning. But it was her business, it was all of their business if it came to Pitch.

“Well if that’s all, shall we go?” Jack stood and extended a hand to Elsa. He wanted to flee this tree, leave this meeting, forget about Mary for one day if anything.

Jack jolted as Elsa took his hands, her cold palm warming his.

“Lovely to meet you all.” Elsa said curtly, as she stood. Jack’s arm tensed as Elsa tightened her grip on his hand and quickly dragged him out of the room. With a heavy thud the door clasped shut. For a second Elsa stared at the door then turned to Jack.

Jack’s breath hitched as Elsa stood fuming before him.

“Why would she-”

“I know I’m sorry, I didn’t-”

“The way she spoke to you!” Jack gaped in silence at Elsa’s declaration. Elsa flexed her fingers as she marched down the hall. Jack jogged after her in desperation as little pieces of ice curled through Elsa’s fingers, like one would play with a coin.

Jack let out a humorless laugh as he swung his staff over his shoulder.

“Yeah well, that’s Emily-Jane for ya queeny.”

“Not her.”

Jack furrowed his brow, the only other person who had spoken directly to him was Tooth.

“Tooth, you mean her?” Elsa stopped and whirled around her cape slapping against Jack’s legs. Jack froze as the snow queen looked up at him. Her gaze was so steady and angry, but also something more. Surprisingly Jack felt his own eyes soften at it.

“Yes, her! She- did you not hear her?” Elsa threw up a hand gesturing to the hall. Jack thought back to their conversation, sure Tooth may have been a little rude bringing up his nightmares, but she had apologized after all.

“No, I don’t.”

“All of them then, not one of them tried to stop Emily-Jane!” Elsa balled up a fist and the little piece of ice let out a hollow crack. The snow queen closed her eyes and gave a small breath.

A small part of Jack wondered if Elsa was overreacting (not that he would suggest it aloud by any means) but another wondered if she was right.

A stranger had been by and Tooth had brought up Mary. Emily-Jane had mocked his mourning, Bunny had been too busy painting an egg to pay attention to anything, and North hadn’t cared to speak up to Emily once. Jack nodded slowly and felt a small flicker of anger bloom inside of him.

Just as quickly Jack tried to kill it. He didn’t have a reason to be mad at the guardians, they had given him a home, a family. Something a spirit was rarely given. They’d even helped him get his memories back.

Jack frowned, well sort of for the last one but that didn’t matter.

“What did Emily-Jane mean with what happened to you?” Elsa whispered. Jack shook his head.

“No.” The word surprised Jack, he was hoping he’d be a little more tactful with his wording but the stern denial had slipped out. “Queeny if you think some rude comment or off handed jab hurts my feelings, I promise I’m alright.” Jack took her hand in his.

Elsa’s anger melted ever slightly. Jack swallowed and clasped her hand tighter.

“I mean, I was a spirit for three hundred years before them, they gave me a home..they gave me something worth living for.” Jack whispered.

Elsa paled.

Three hundred years. The words echoed in Jack’s head. He wanted to curse, to scream.

“What did they do before that?”

Jack wetted his lips and gave a hollow laugh.

“I-I mean I was horrible, I-I probably fit those story books you read; they avoided me it doesn’t matter.” Elsa tore her hand out Jack’s.

“Do you not hear yourself?” she whispered in horror. “They left you for three-” Elsa covered her mouth as if the words made her sick.

“Oh Jack..”

Jack winced at the pity in her voice. Swallowing the winter spirit shrugged, he didn’t care.

“Hey it’s-it’s fine..” Jack almost managed to contain the shaking in his voice as he reached out and straightened Elsa’s shoulders as she hunched over in horror. “I promise, it’s fine,” he whispered. Elsa’s eyes welled up but she quickly nodded, shaking them away.

“You should probably get home, Anna might kill me if she thinks I kidnapped you.” Jack joked but Elsa flinched at the words. Silently Elsa nodded as Jack took her hand. The two wordlessly left Big Root and made their way to the edge of the woods circling Santoff Claussen.

Jack reached into his pocket drawing out the silver snow globe. Holding it out, Jack watched as Elsa took it with quivering hands.

After a quick step by step on how the magical transportation worked, Elsa let the silver orb roll out of her hands. Jack felt a little queasy at her guilt-ridden expression, echoed by the thud of the snow globe on the grass.

But soon enough a portal flew open.

Jack smiled as Elsa turned to him. Her hair was almost blonde looking in the sun, with the portal flashing little bits of blue and purple onto her shoulder.

“Will you come back?” Elsa asked. Jack blinked and tried to follow her question.

“Yeah, I mean we need to find Mary and we have Autohallen to explore later and-”

“No, I mean just come back. Once everything is done, just visit…for fun.” Jack suspected she tacked on the last bit to lure him in.

Jack smirked and tilted his head. Reaching out Jack tapped the edge of his staff to Elsa’s nose, leaving a little burst of frost.

“Now, I thought you wanted me to leave, you practically forced me out Queeny..” Jack mock scolded, crossing his arms in dramatic disapproval. Elsa grabbed his shoulders, her eyes growing wide and serious.

“Forget that, forget any deal or promise we made, you can come.” Elsa whispered, grabbing his hands. Jack couldn’t help but beam.

“Well then, I guess we’ll just have to see.” Elsa let out a relieved breath at his words, Jack's smile grew as he wondered how long she’d been holding it in.

“Go home, go see your family.” Jack whispered as he ran a thumb over Elsa’s nails, tracing their sharp points and soft beds.

Elsa nodded and dropped his hands, she took two steps then turned again. Jack sighed and opened his mouth to tell her that going through the portal was actually part of the process when he felt someone wrap around him.

Looking down, Jack saw Elsa tight around his chest. Her arms were firmly pressed against his back. Jack swallowed and bit his lip to keep from smiling. For a moment he wondered when he’d last felt this way.

Wrapping his arms around her Jack placed his head on the top of Elsa’s head.

“What a nice warm hug.” He whispered, frantically trying to recall the snowman's words from earlier.. The winter spirit heard a small laugh at this before Elsa let go and hesitantly walked through the portal.

“That girls gonna be the death of you.” Jack bristled at Emily-Jane’s voice. Jack jumped as a burst of wind pushed him to face a tree. At the bottom of it sat Emily-Jane. Leaves adorned her hair like a crown and the roots provided a chair for Emily to rest on.

Jack scoffed and shoved his hand in his pocket, twirling his staff.

“Stop it.” He muttered. Emily-Jane stood, and Jack felt his body go taunt.

“I mean it..” Emily warned. “It’ll hurt more to care for a mortal than it does to be a lonely spirit.” she whispered. Jack rolled his eyes.

“Well sweetheart, I’m gonna have to go through it anyways when Jamie and those other kids stop believing in me, so what’s the difference now.”

Emily-Jane sighed.

“Jack there’s a reason adults don’t believe in you.”

“What, they're deemed crazy or something, I doubt that would happen for someone who can harness the same thing you can.”

Emily-Jane’s stony face looked almost hurt. With a few slow steps she slid into the sunlight, her dress faded to a light green and her hair looked almost brown in the sun. She looked more alive in Jack’s opinion.

“Please, just consider it.” Emily almost sounded like she was begging, something Jack assumed she hadn’t been capable of. Something pricked Jack as she walked by.

Jack's staff loosened in his hand as a large back vine curled around Emily’s wrist. But with a wave of the morning mist, mother nature was gone.

Jack had the sinking feeling Emily had already made up his mind for him.

Chapter Text

It had been a week since Elsa had last seen Jack. She hadn’t heard so much as a peep from the winter spirit. And despite her initial hatred she felt a little hurt at his absence. Outside the wind whistled, interrupting the silence.

Elsa’s head jerked up from the half-finished blanket on her lap. Anna had recently introduced the practice of crocheting to the snow queen and Elsa had quickly taken it up. The repeated motions, fine stitches and slow development gave the snow queen a sense of peace. But now her attention was drawn to a glass pane, frost slowly settling over the freshly cleaned window.

Dropping her hooks and abandoning the blanket to the floor Elsa threw open the window. With a jolt Jack flew backwards, nearly colliding with the shutters at Elsa’s rush.
“Hi.” Jack said as he clutched his staff, the frost fading from the glass.

“Hi.” Elsa cleared her throat and stepped back. “Come inside.” A sense of awe settled in Elsa’s chest as she watched Jack float in the sky. She wondered how long it had taken him to learn that. What he had he done to have Gale allow him in the sky.

Swinging himself over the window ledge Jack let out a sigh and landed on the plush carpet. With a small hum the winter spirit looked around, his eyes settled on the blanket on the floor then on Elsa. A blush crept along Elsa’s face as she looked around her room. Though her door had opened long ago, it wasn't common to have people here. No one except Anna or the occasional maid came into her long-forgotten room.

Jack didn’t seem to notice though as he hooked the blanket on his staff and draped it over the bed.

“I’m taking you up on that visit.” Jack smiled lazily as he bounced around the bed. Elsa wrung her hands, but a smile still graced her face. Running through the day, the snow queen sighed. She had too much to do, boring, tedious work. Work that kept her stranded in the castle

To say so though felt like a horrendous attack on Jack. To diminish his job of fun.

Finally, the snow queen nodded.

Jack gave a lopsided smile, practically jumping with joy as he brandished the snow globe. Elsa watched as Jack whispered a name and the swirling portal appeared. Jack turned to face the snow queen and Elsa was shocked to see his face a shade of pink.

“Right, umm, for this…you’ll- you’ll need a better um...” Jack scratched the back of his head, and his face flushed. Jack finally waved a hand at Elsa’s dress. Elsa stepped back, her face growing hot. Looking down, the snow queen studied her dress. It wasn’t her spirit dress, nor was it the coronation dress she had redesigned in the mountain tops.

It was a pale blue, and she supposed it did have a bit of a train, but it wasn’t the most dramatic thing she had worn. In fact, it was rather boring in her opinion, perfect for her previous planned day.

“Why?”

Jack cleared his throat and refused to meet Elsa’s eye. “It’s just the dress, it’s lovely but I wouldn’t want it to get in the way.” He finally said meekly. “We have to walk a lot, and well I’m sure you’re better at getting around by foot then me I just-”

“Turn.” The winter spirit quickly stopped his rambling and faced the window. With a flourish of her hands Elsa transformed the dress. Gone was the train, and now the hem fell neatly at her ankles.

Elsa slowly redid her braid as Jack turned around. For a second the winter spirit didn’t speak and just stared at the snow queen's dress.

“How’d-”

Elsa tucked a strand of hair and smiled into the mirror on the wall.

“You have your talents, I have mine.”

An icy clip finished off the braid and Elsa sauntered over to the portal. A giddiness filled her as she listened to the portal whoosh in and out, the light bouncing off the walls.

Extending her hand Elsa took Jack’s and slid into the portal. It hadn’t even occurred to her to ask where they were going until she felt herself slammed on a hard gray stone. With a jerk she felt Jack catch her and drag her upward.

Broken sunlight streamed into her eyes and Elsa stiffened as she opened them. Massive buildings loomed overhead. The air smelled hot, stuffy, and slightly metallic. Elsa looked around and noticed they were between two buildings in an alley. Jack quickly undid his grip around her waist and instead settled for her wrist.

“Just be prepared this might be a bit of a sensory overload.” Jack advised as he grabbed her wrist and led her towards the edge of the alley.

“In what way?”

“This is gonna be a lot more than your kingdom or forest alright? I mean I don’t know- I mean you’ve probably seen other kingdoms and cities, right? I mean you're a diplomat.” Jack rambled, stumbling over his words as he paused at the edge of the brick building next to them. Elsa held up a hand, silencing the blabbering spirit.

“I’m sure it’ll be fine.”

“I-I’m..ok…I just want to warn you.” Jack said, raising his hands in truce.

“Well thank you now let's go.”

Jack said as they turned the corner. Elsa bit back a gasp as machines came streaming down the street and massive crowds of people appeared. Jumping back Elsa felt Jack catch her shoulders.

“It’s so loud.” Elsa whispered as hundreds of voices overlapped and sharp horns went off.

“Yep.” Jack muttered

Elsa looked around at the hundreds of people that pushed around them, no one paid any attention to her, several in fact just bumped into her and continued on. Elsa looked around for Jack, disoriented at this many people. The spirit though didn’t react and instead moved out of their way paying no attention to anything other than Elsa in front of him.

“Where are we?”

“New York, I also took us to my time, so like...” Jack paused and counted in his head, flicking fingers up with each number passed. “Twenty seventeen I think.”
Elsa backed up, pressing her back into the brick. The puddles at her feet began to grow cold. The smell of gas and the roar of the machines on the road next to her made her feel sick.

“Why?”

“Well for starters, I have a friend I need to check on and they might have news about Mary.”

A sharp horn broke their conversation.

“What’s making that noise?” Elsa whimpered softly.

“It’s a car, it’s a way of transportation, it makes it, so you don’t have to walk everywhere.”

“Then why is it making so much noise?”
“Because people are impatient and they think if they keep doing that they’ll get where they are headed faster.” Jack shrugged and looked over his shoulder at the cars then back at Elsa.

“You wanna get goin?” Elsa swallowed and gave a shallow nod.

Jack pressed a button on a nearby pole watching as the light connected to it turned from green to yellow. Elsa looked around at the group of cars that were coming in the distance and the road in front of her.

She took a step onto the road only to be immediately met with a sharp honk and Jack grabbing the back of her. A car frantically turned onto the street, the man inside it glaring at her.

“Don’t. Do. That.” Jack stammered as he pulled her away from the edge of the curb. “Ok you see that light?”

He pointed at a hanging light attached to a pole, across the road. An orange hand was demanding them to halt.

“When the man appears, run across. Only when he appears though.” Jack ordered. In a flash a white little silhouette appeared. Elsa quickly darted across the road as a car skidded to a
stop. Before the white silhouette could disappear the man in the car looked around wildly and turned down the street, speeding up with a loud skrrt.

“Why did they still turn?” Elsa inquired. Jack opened his mouth to answer but then closed it.

The two continued down the street quickly and silently for a few minutes before turning onto a large block with massive buildings lined with glowing signs and flashing images drawing Elsa’s eye to the sky. Much to Elsa’s surprise Jack continued down the sidewalk.

“Welcome to time square.” He then gestured towards the massive signs and buildings. Elsa nodded and slowly continued down the street.

“How much farther till we get to your friend.”

“Not much…keep your eyes down.” Jack then instructed. Elsa looked at Jack as he tightly re-grabbed her wrist.
She glanced around and noticed a building with a bright yellow tape with the words police written on it over and over again. She then noticed a dark crimson stain against the stone.

“Is that….” She then muttered fighting the urge to gag.

“Maybe.” Jack drawled as he pulled her closer.

Elsa felt a drop of sweat run down her back as she tried to take in everything as it began to swim together, creating a fuzzy blurry image. It was so loud. The cars and people swarming them even managed to block out Elsa’s pounding heart.

“Please wait, just for a moment please.” Elsa begged Jack as she pulled on his arm causing him to stop.

“What, are you ok? Can we keep going? It's only like eight more blocks till we meet my friend.”

“Please, I just need a moment to breathe.” Elsa whispered. Jack eyed her warily, Elsa flinched as he studied her then pulled her into a nearby building. A small ding went off above them as the door closed and they walked deeper into the store.

Elsa sighed and relished in the silence; the loud street was now only a dull muffled sound behind the door.

“Hello there dear, I'll be with you in just a moment.” An elderly woman appeared behind a counter, pushing her way through a curtain.

“Alright, what just happened?” Jack whispered a hint of concern in his voice. “Also put this in.” A small circular shaped ball attached to a wire was pressed into Elsa’s hand. Jack tapped the edge of his ear and Elsa reluctantly slid the earpiece in.

“I hate noise, I didn’t experience it, I was taught to be quiet to keep to myself. When you grow up in a room where you have no one but your parents, who were afraid of you, to come visit…so this is just…”

“Wait a minute, you're afraid of noise?” Jack asked, cutting her off. His voice sounded muffled, far off. Elsa glanced down and hesitated before answering.

“I suppose you could say that yes.” Jack sighed and ran a hand through his hair.

“Ok lets just-” he then paused as the elderly woman then appeared.

“Now what can I help you with my dear.” she asked sweetly. Elsa glanced at Jack expecting him to give the answer.

“Don’t talk directly to me you’ll look insane, she can’t see me remember!” Jack frantically said, glancing around the store. Elsa felt her mouth go dry as she tapped her nail against her earpiece and forced a smile at the woman.

“I’m sorry, I just need a moment t-”

“You have to buy to stay, I'm afraid.” The white-haired woman cut Elsa off with a frown. Elsa flushed, her eyes darting around the store.

“Yes, well, what do you recommend?” The snow queen asked quickly, as she folded her hands together smiling warmly at the woman.

“Well, since it’s beginning to become spring, these are becoming popular.” Elsa felt Jack glance to her in surprise. The snow queen shook her head softly and clutched her hands together in front of her.

The elderly woman had a loose soft velvety black dress draped across her arms.

“It’s lovely-” Elsa whispered. Behind her she heard Jack sniff, his hand covering his mouth quickly.

“Pardon me darling, so sorry old age, hearing the first to go.” the elderly woman laughed at her own joke and smiled sweetly at the two.

“It’s a lovely jacket, it’ll be perfect.” Elsa flaunted as she took the garment from the woman.

“Yes, it’ll stand out from your hair. Keep you looking angelic.” Elsa blushed at the woman’s comment but managed to nod.

“Thank you.”

“Yes, it’ll be thirty-five dollars.” Elsa let out a squawk as she quickly slid off the coat. Midway through the woman gave a disapproving tsk of her tongue and Elsa paused.

“If you don’t buy it then you need to leave!”

Elsa watched as Jack pulled out several dollars and slid them on the counter once the woman’s back was turned.
0o0o0o0
Elsa smiled as the two of them crossed the street and stepped inside the massive park. She gently popped her earbud out and smiled as the rush of cars and people chatting was suddenly swept away.

A few feet away a boy was scrolling on a smooth rectangular device as he tapped his foot. Jack quickly sped up and a large gust of wind blew the boy’s phone to the ground. The boy scoffed but smiled as his eyes settled on Jack.

“Hey frost, how’s it going? Who’s this?”

“Jamie, this is Elsa. Elsa, Jamie.” Jack led Elsa over to a bench next to Jamie, beckoning for her to sit. Once the three of them were all sitting, well in Jack’s case floating, Jamie pulled out a cream-colored envelope. Flipping it through his fingers, Jamie smiled at Elsa.

“So, you're the ‘Snow Queen?’” Elsa paused at the nickname.

“Yes.”

“I…are you really a queen?”

“I was.” Jamie hummed in interest and turned to Jack.

“Ohh, umm, would you like me to call you by your title or...”

“No please, I prefer Elsa.”

“Okay then, Hi Elsa.” Jamie looked between the two winter spirits. “So, you come for the big news?” He flicked the envelope open. Elsa squinted at the envelope's crammed writing in the corner. Nothing she could make out.

“Excuse me?”

“We’re trying to see if he’s related to Mary, might uncover ideas.” Jack said, his eyes never leaving the envelope. Jamie nodded happily and withdrew a paper. The boy's brown eyes scanned the paper, and he nodded. With a dramatic flair that matched Jack’s own he extended his arms.

“Congratulations Jack, you are part of the Bennet tree!”

The temperature dropped. Elsa fiddled with her hands, it felt like such an intimate moment, something she shouldn't be part of. Despite the drastic temperature drop though, Jack was beaming.

Jamie nodded. Elsa watched as the two of them burst out into laughter and cheers of joy, before crashing into each other. For a few minutes the two of them just chattered on and on.

Elsa couldn’t help but smile softly as well.

“So, how are you related then?” She finally asked. Jamie smiled and shrugged.

“Too many greats to trace it down to an exact but he’s an uncle in some way I guess.” Jack nodded and wrapped an arm around Jamie.

“So, Mary Overland. We got this man; we can find her!” Jamie cheered. “Right?” he turned to Elsa at this. Unsure of what to do, the snow queen nodded hesitantly.

“Yeah. Hell yeah we can!” Jamie boasted. “Now let’s celebrate!”

Chapter Text

With a soft thud Elsa collapsed into bed, her hair sprawling around her like a halo. Despite the pain in her body, Elsa was beaming.

Jamie had spent all day dragging Jack and her throughout New York, and now her feet were begging for a rest. Closing her eyes Elsa let out a small sigh as she thought. First Jamie had taken them to a small restaurant of sorts where he had insisted Elsa try a frozen drink that tasted like hot chocolate. Something she was already planning on implementing in Arendelle.

Mostly though the joy Jack and Jamie had faced upon realizing they were family played in her head. As this memory replayed Elsa felt herself drift off to sleep when a familiar knock sounded. Two normal, followed by a rapid two and a final knock to finish.

“Come in.”

The door opened with a click and Elsa felt her bed dip beneath her. Anna smiled happily at her as she curled up next to Elsa.

“Have you been avoiding me?” Anna’s question was playful, full of teasing but Elsa tensed.

“Of course not, I’ve just been busy.” Anna cocked her head and smiled.

“Oh?”

“Yes.” Elsa sat up and combed her hands through her hair. “I’ve been helping Jack.”

Anna let out a girlish gasp as a hand flew to her mouth.

“What?” her sister was barely audible as she wrinkled her brow in confusion.

Elsa leaned against the headboard as she drew her knees to her chest.

“Yes, I’ve been helping him find his sister.”

Anna nodded, “Kristoff told me about Ahtohallen, was it alright?” concern laced Anna’s voice.

Elsa slowly nodded.

“Yes, but it was odd.” Elsa pressed her fingers together, grabbing at her knuckles as she thought back. Anna beckoned for Elsa to continue, but Elsa stopped. Could she tell Anna about those thorns? The hidden memories Jack didn’t even know he had.

As she thought about it she realized she was right. It was odd. Jack hadn’t been lured by Ahtohallen, but by someone else entirely. Once he’d gotten to Ahtohallen it seemed like it had almost eaten him up. Shattering beneath his feet, swallowing him whole. Almost like a punishment.

“How so?” Elsa blinked as Anna plumped up a pillow and leaned back.

“He…it-” Elsa swallowed and shook her head. Jack hadn’t shared it with her, so she wouldn’t share it with Anna.

“He’s not like those stories.” Elsa finally whispered. This wasn’t technically a lie. “He’s a lot more..human.” The word left a bitter taste in Elsa’s mouth; it felt like an insult. So, Jack was immortal, he was a magical spirit in charge of helping the world. That didn't make him less of a person, in fact Elsa believed he was more a human when it came to his magic then she had been.

“Well I’d hope so, he did seem kinder.” Anna sighed as she took a section of Elsa’s hair in her hands. Slowly Elsa felt Anna twist her hair together, forming a thick braid.

“He is.”

Anna’s hands slowed down. Elsa glanced up to see a mischievous look in her sister's eyes.

“Well, then if I may overstep my sisterly boundaries, you should bring him to dinner.” The temperature dropped.

“What dinner?”

Anna rolled her eyes dramatically as she flopped back into the bed.

“The one with our cousin!” Elsa shook her head.

“I don’t think he would enjoy it.” The idea of Jack in a suit, formally picking at overly rich foods and wine almost made her laugh. It would be a nightmare for him, if he couldn’t get through a single meeting.

She frowned.

No. He was right to avoid that meeting and its spirits. Their taunting, and cruelness.

She had no right to speak for him, to deem what he would enjoy.

“But I’ll speak to him about it.”

Anna beamed as she shot up, clasping her hands together.

“Yes!” Anna’s gaze held something else, a hidden idea.

“What are you thinking?”

Anna blushed and looked down at her hands. Her shoulders shook with muffled laughter as she shook her head.

“No-I-I can’t say it.” She whispered as she let out a loud guffaw. Elsa felt her face go red.

“Anna, you misunderstand, it’s not like that-” Her sister nodded as she clutched her stomach falling onto her back in a fit of laughter.

“Of course, of course.”

Elsa’s ears burned as she felt the temperature drop slightly.

“Anna, I mean it.”

Anna shook her head.

“Out-out of all the men…” Anna gasped. “Out of all the men you’ve managed to befriend you found a magical ice spirit!”

Elsa shook her head.

“I’m merely helping him..” she repeated lamely. “It’s my job to help people, especially spirits.” It was a lame argument, weak and easily deducible if Anna thought over it for too long. Jack was no simple spirit, bound to her forest. She had no control over him, nor did she want any.

“But he’s a winter spirit! The only one we’ve heard about!” Anna teased “it’s different!”

Elsa scoffed and slid out of bed. Crossing over to her mirror Elsa grabbed a brush and quickly undid her hair, running the bristles through it.

“It’s nothing.”

A light rain began to patter outside the window.

With a yawn Anna stretched.

“Well I better get going, I have a parliament meeting in the morning and I’m really not looking forward to it. Another argument about that empty shop next to Astrids blacksmith keeps coming up and no one’s able to resolve it.” Elsa nodded in the mirror, her mind flashing back to Ombric's comment about birds and squirrels fighting over sticks.

It seemed to entertain Jack, that comment. Perhaps he would be entertained by a parliament meeting, Elsa thought wistfully. Hearing everyone complain about trivial things. Shaking her head Elsa pushed the idea away.

“Goodnight Anna.”

“Goodnight Elsa, sleep well…” Anna smiled coyly at Elsa in the mirror. “Don’t let Jack Frost nip your nose.” she said quickly as she shut the door. A large clump of snow hit the wood as Anna shrieked in joy before her footsteps retreated down the hall.

Elsa sat flushed and panting.

She did not care about Jack Frost.

Well, that wasn’t entirely true. She wanted him to be able to find his family, be able to see his memories. She wanted him to be able to have a good immortal life. But that was what everyone wanted for someone.

Nodding Elsa placed her brush down. The rain outside had picked up, slapping the castle in large gusts. Briefly Elsa wondered if she should ask Gale to ease up the storm but decided against it.

“Elsa.”

The snow queen bristled as a voice echoed around the room. In a whirl Elsa turned around only to find sharp bristles wrapping her to the mirror, and anchoring her to the floor.

Emily-Jane sat passively at Elsa’s desk. Reaching out Emily slowly kicked the balcony door closed.

“Hello.” The spirit nodded amicably towards Elsa. “I’m sorry to bother you tonight.”

For a moment Elsa wondered if she should scream. Alert Anna or the guards to Emily-Jane’s presence. But no, they were shocked by Elsa’s magic years ago, the snow queen hardly believed that they would be able to see a woman in charge of all the seasons.

“I just want to talk to you tonight.” Emily-Jane whispered passively. “And I apologize for earlier.”

Elsa nodded unable to move, too scared to speak.

“I believe you need to know something about Jack.” Emily continued as she stood. Her emerald dress trailed along the ground as she paced the room. “He’s a spirit, yes, but unlike you, he was brought back by the man in the moon.”

Elsa swallowed trying to regain her voice. “Who?”

Emily-Jane nodded as if she had expected that answer. “He creates spirits, takes ordinary people and makes them magical.”

Emily paused, and looked at Elsa expectantly, encouraging her to keep up. After a minute she continued. “You know about Pitch already as well, but what I need to tell you is that Jack.”

Emily slowly walked over to Elsa. Taking Elsa’s hand in hers she leaned forward.

“Jack isn’t like a normal spirit, and this is why I’m here.” Elsa frowned.

“Is that why you treated him like that!” She stammered, finally. Despite her bold statement her voice shook.

Emily-Jane nodded. “Yes, and I know it seems cruel but it’s for the best.”

Elsa scoffed.

Rolling her eyes Emily-Jane leaned forward. “He died darling, that’s how he was brought back.”

Elsa froze. The temperature in the room was below freezing now, with large pieces of ice growing on the walls.

“He drowned on a frozen lake.” The ice shattering under Jack in Ahtohallan. Jack’s fear of Nokk. Elsa stared at the floor, her vision going blurry.

“He was left for three hundred years, abandoned by man in moon. Only having mortals who couldn’t see him for company.” Emily-Jane’s voice shook as if she held some guilt in it. Letting out a deep breath Emily-Jane continued.

“But now, he’s with them, he’s not alone anymore. He’ll never have to face the heartbreak of watching someone he thought he loved die again.”

Emily-Jane dropped Elsa’s hand. The rain outside was screaming now, loud claps of thunder echoing each lightning flash.

Elsa didn’t answer. She couldn’t answer. Jack was dead, or was he? It hurt Elsa’s head to think about it.

Emily-Jane leaned in close until she was just near Elsa’s ear.

“Don’t let him experience it again.” Emily whispered. Before Elsa could answer the balcony doors whirled open and Emily-Jane and her thorns disappeared into the storm.

Elsa slid to the floor trembling. She was so tired all of a sudden. For a brief moment she wondered if she should be repulsed by Jack and the fact he was technically undead.

Shame flooded her at the thought though, because she didn’t. She merely felt sad. Horrified for Jack and this revelation. Nauseated that Jack’s secret was now her own without his doing. Slowly a black sand slid through the air and across her eyes. Elsa let out a sob as she curled up on the carpet and fell into a fitful sleep.