Chapter 3: A Kingdom's Celebration

The castle buzzed with activity as preparations for Anna and Kristoff's wedding neared completion. The entire kingdom of Arendelle seemed to hum with joy, the excitement spilling into the streets as garlands of flowers adorned shop windows and streamers fluttered in the wind.

For Elsa, the wedding was bittersweet. She was overjoyed for her sister, who had finally found her happily-ever-after. Yet, as she stood in her chambers watching the flurry of activity below, a twinge of loneliness crept in.

A knock at the door pulled her from her thoughts. Lucas entered, his usual confident stride softened by a hint of concern. "You seem lost in thought," he observed.

Elsa turned to him, offering a small smile. "Just thinking about how much has changed. Anna's getting married tomorrow. It feels... surreal."

Lucas nodded, stepping closer. "It's always strange when life moves so quickly. But you seem happy for her."

"I am," Elsa said earnestly. "She deserves this happiness."

He studied her for a moment. "And what about you, Elsa? What do you deserve?"

The question hung in the air. Elsa hesitated, her gaze drifting to the floor. "I don't know," she admitted. "I've always focused on my responsibilities, my powers... I never thought much about what I wanted for myself."

Lucas's voice was gentle but firm. "Maybe it's time you did."

Their eyes met, and something unspoken passed between them—an understanding, a promise.

---

The next day, the wedding was nothing short of spectacular. The castle courtyard had been transformed into a dazzling wonderland, with flowers and ice sculptures blending harmoniously to represent both the warmth of Anna's love and the magic of Elsa's touch.

Elsa stood at the altar, her ice-blue gown shimmering in the sunlight, as she officiated the ceremony. Anna looked radiant in her wedding dress, her hand clasped tightly in Kristoff's as they exchanged vows.

When it was time for the rings, Olaf, the lovable snowman, waddled down the aisle as the ring bearer, eliciting laughter and cheers from the guests.

"By the power vested in me as Queen of Arendelle," Elsa declared, her voice strong and clear, "I now pronounce you husband and wife."

The crowd erupted in applause as Anna and Kristoff kissed, sealing their union.

---

Later, at the grand reception, Elsa found herself surrounded by a sea of happy faces. Yet, she couldn't help but steal glances at Lucas, who was seated across the hall.

Eventually, he made his way over to her. "Not much of a dancer, are you?" he teased.

Elsa chuckled. "Not really. Too many opportunities for things to go... slippery."

Lucas extended a hand. "Care to give it a try anyway? I promise not to let you fall."

She hesitated for only a moment before taking his hand. They stepped onto the dance floor, where the musicians played a gentle waltz.

"You're full of surprises, Lucas," Elsa said as they swayed to the music.

"And you're full of grace," he replied, his tone warm.

As they moved together, Elsa felt the weight of her responsibilities melt away, replaced by a lightness she hadn't felt in years.

---

Later that night, as the celebration wound down, Elsa and Lucas found themselves on the castle balcony, overlooking the peaceful kingdom.

"Today was beautiful," Elsa said, her voice soft.

"It was," Lucas agreed. "And so are you."

She turned to him, her cheeks flushing at the sincerity in his eyes.

"Lucas, I..." Elsa hesitated, struggling to find the right words.

But he simply smiled. "You don't have to say anything. Just know that I'm here, Elsa. For you."

For the first time in her life, Elsa felt the walls around her heart begin to crumble.

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Let me know if you want to see chapter 4