Locked in semi-quarantine with a 1.5 year old allows me to watch Frozen (among many other animated classics) more than I ever thought possible. In the first film, during Elsa’s coronation, she is confronted by sister Anna with a perplexing issue, does she allow Anna to marry a Prince, Hans, who she’s only met that day. This is a more adult twist, if Elsa had a trusted advisor by her side.
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Pontus glided across the ballroom intercepting the conversation between Anna and Queen Elsa at the Queen’s coronation festivities – behind Ana, Prince Hans.
It was Pontus who persuaded young King Agnarr to trade with Weselton, curbing economic pressures on Arendelle. Most of the King’s council opposed, but the prosperity afterwards gave Agnarr a new trusted advisor. Pontus was honest and reliable. He eventually became the King’s regent during absences, which left only Pontus at the castle the night of Agnarr and Queen Iduna’s accident.
As Pontus approached he overheard Anna, “whatever you need to say to me you can say in front of Hans.” Pontus interrupted before the Queen responded.
“I believe it wise to know the history of Arendelle and the Southern Isles before making such a bold life decision, Your Majesty.”
“And what history is…”
But before Anna could rebut, Pontus, eyes focused on Hans, asked, “Queen Elsa, may we speak privately?”
Accompanying Elsa, arms linked together, Pontus whispered, “The Kingdom of the Southern Isles has a history of usurping those around them, and the King’s family, especially the children, have done unspeakable things to overtake their peers. I do not trust Hans, his family are too cunning and manipulative.”
Elsa then met his eyes and smiled, “Thank you, Pontus.”
Turning to confront Hans, Pontus latched onto Elsa’s arm, “urge to discuss this later, tonight is your celebration.”
Anna continued flirting with Hans until Elsa returned, Pontus standing at her side. “We will continue this conversation tomorrow – tonight is an inappropriate time to discuss such matters.”
Elsa departed abruptly afterwards, followed by Pontus, who retired to the hallway. Just then, Pontus felt his arm ripped back, Hans’s furrowed brow leering down. He softened, “Please understand that my feelings are not intended to be an imposition.”
“I’ve never doubted Anna’s feelings for you, your highness” Pontus replies, “but we both know my place is to advise, not to decide.”
With that, Hans bowed in courtesy and smiled. Pontus could swear he saw a glimmer of evil in those eyes.
Restoring his jacket, Pontus returned to find Elsa and briefed her on the transgressions with Hans.
“And with that I will leave you, my Queen. I have fulfilled your father’s request, and will now retire.” Afterall, Pontus intended this to be his final night as an advisor. Both studied each other’s sorrow, and with a tired grin, Pontus added, “It’s been my honor to serve your family all these years.” Pontus clutched Elsa’s hand and gently kissed her goodbye.
Stephen Michael 