Chapter 20:
All Change
Northuldra
It was a peaceful morning and like always the Northuldrans were starting their day with all sorts of movement around the camp.
The children would follow their mothers and father to help harvest only to end up playing within themselves as they ran around the camp freely.
The woman were hard at work as they performed chores inside their huts. Making sure everything was clean, even on the outside. They boiled water for breakfast, cleaned the dirty Gákti and hung it up to dry, making sure their families had enough to wear for the week.
Yelena walked through the camp with her great staff in her hand, making her usual morning stroll as greeted everyone a good morning, making sure if anyone needed her help.
Meanwhile just to the side of the camp was Honeymaren standing firm on her two legs with her brother Ryder as she encircled the new young recruits of warriors with staffs in their hands who were mimicking Ryder's examples he gave with his staff.
"Always keep your staff outwards, never pull it in unless the battle is over!" She exclaimed as she started to encircle the group.
She was walking perfectly, no longer in need of any crutches or physical support.
"Maren." Said Yelena as Honeymaren turned to look at her.
"Good morning, Yelena." Said Honeymaren with a smile to her as she came to stand next to her as they observed the young recruits. "Glad to see you out and about this early."
"Well there is much to do. Winter is practically here and we must prepare for what's to come." Replied Yelena as she started to gently play with the beads tied to her staff.
"Well if it's winter preparation you want than you're gonna have to talk to the expert of all things cold." Replied Honeymaren with a smirk.
Yelena chuckled. "I was just heading over to her hut to talk to her. Wanna tag along? I could use the company after all."
"Sounds like a great idea." Smiled Honeymaren as she turned to her brother. "Ryder!"
"Oww!" He exclaimed as his staff that he had been moving in different motions collided with the corner of his head at hearing his sisters loud yell at him. The new recruits began to laugh. "Geez, what?"
"I'm gonna go pay Elsa a visit with Yelena. Take over would ya?" She said as she started to walk away arm and arm with Yelena.
"Hmmph. Is the word please so hard to use nowadays?" He said rolling his eyes as he turned his attention back to the youth in front of him. "All right, let's continue. Hyah!"
Yelena and Honeymaren passed through the camp again before they reached that one area of the place where in front of the decorated hut was the fifth spirit herself who was crouched down and helping the young children pronounce the words she had just written on her small chalk board.
Her platinum blonde hair was down and her usual wardrobe shined brightly and it wasn't cause of how white it was or any of her magic that she was doing. It was because of how free and happy she felt in that moment where she was helping children learn.
"Fo-re-st." Said Elsa very slowly as she pointed to each letter that made that noise.
"Fo-re-st.." Repeated the children as they followed Elsa's finger to each word she pointed at.
"I live in the forest." She said very slowly and patiently. "Where do you live?"
"We live in the forest too." They all replied in union and with ease.
Elsa chuckled and smiled gleefully at the young children. "Very good! Great job you guys! You all did amazing.
The children began to cheer and clap at hearing that while Elsa continued to giggle and smile at the happy children.
Even Yelena chuckled. "She must love working with the children. She seems so passionate."
"Oh are you kidding? Elsa loves knowledge. And even more so she loves to teach it. So when given the chance like she is right now it's very exciting for her. She practically lives for this kind of stuff." Smiled Honeymaren with her arms crossed.
They watched as Elsa congratulated every single one of the children. "Now run along to your families, we'll practice our spelling later this afternoon!" She called out as she stood to her feet.
"They seem to be learning well if they're that excited to come back to your class." Smiled Honeymaren with her arms still crossed as they watched the children run off.
"They are." Replied Elsa with a gentle smile. "In fact they're probably be done before the year ends if I'm being honest."
"Well let's hope so. After all we don't want the end of this year to be full of trials now do we.." said Yelena.
Elsa bent down to pick up the chalkboard and the chalk Anna had let her borrow from the castle.
"I know why you came, Yelena." Said Elsa as she pushed the chalkboard under her arm. "I assure you everything should go according to plan this winter. It'll be a tough one but nothing we can't handle."
"Elsa's right. We already have enough grain harvested for the next three months, I took a look myself. Worst case scenario we could use last years supply." Added Honeymaren.
"What about provisions?" Asked Yelena as she rested her two hands on the staff.
"Anna will be sending the whole supply of provisions this week. January will be our hardest month by what I can tell by the weather, but we'll have more than enough already granted." Explained Elsa.
Yelena smiled at Elsa and Honeymaren proudly. "Well then I suppose there's nothing I should worry about."
"Nothing at all, Yelena. I mean look at me! If I'm not stressing than you know we're good." Said Honeymaren as she started to notice one of the young Northudlra children making a ruckus. "Hey! Áron! Don't make me walk over there and tell your sister. You leave Sahkka's braids alone!"
Elsa and Yelena chuckled as they watched the ruthless Honeymaren walk over to the kids, ready to break up the little tussle they were in.
Elsa turned to look at the Northudlra chief and sighed heavily. "You know, Yelena. You should've told me that you were related to my mother. You're basically a great aunt to Anna and I."
Yelena smiled bitterly as she remembered her late brother, Elsa's grandfather and father of Iduna.
"I just didn't think it was the right time.." said Yelena as she turned to look back at Elsa.
"Well no more secrets, okay?" Smiled Elsa as she gently grabbed Yelena'a shoulder. "You're basically the only living relative Anna and I have left."
"For now." Smiled Yelena. "If you're lucky you won't end up like me, no children of any kind."
"Being you wouldn't be such a bad thing." Chuckled Elsa. "Besides, I don't think I'm meant to be a mother.."
"Well I think you're wrong, fifth spirit." Smiled Yelena. "Seeing how well kids act around you, I think you very much are destined to be a mother one day."
Elsa forced a smile at her as she watched the older woman walk away and continue to check up on her people.
Elsa couldn't understand what Yelena meant. She didn't believe that of herself. Her a mother? Pah. She can't even take care of Olaf who is stuck with Anna.
But she can't wait for the day she meets Anna's children. Whenever they may come.
She turned back her attention to Honeyamren who had Áron in her arm, Rhanda's energetic and trouble making little brother. He was squirming uncontrollably, trying to break free of Honeymaren hold.
"GRR! Let me go you poop head!"
"You can try to squirm all you want little dude you aren't going anywhere." Sassed back Honeymaren.
"How's the scar?" Asked Elsa approaching her.
"Huh?" Asked Honeymaren as she turned to look at Elsa with furrowed brows. When Elsa gestured to her own neck she nodded. "Oh, that. Good. Well it's just that, it's a scar now and a pretty decent one if I'm being honest."
Honeymaren moved the right side of her long braided hair to reveal the rather long scar that ran from the right side of the neck in the back, all the way down to her trapezoid muscles.
"You sure it doesn't hurt?" Asked Elsa.
"Nah. I forget it's there honestly. Good thing I can hide it too but you know.." Said Honeymaren as she carried Áron over her shoulder who continued to kick and squirm around. "It is what it is. It could be worse and I could have scars like you know who."
Elsa smiled at that before her curiosity overtook her.
"Where is he by the way?" She asked.
"Pfft. Where else do you think he'd be? Hiding in that cave like the loner he is. Rhanda is up there with his sister and Cassandra. Probably saying their goodbyes before she leaves." Said Honeyamren as she started to walk away with Áron on her shoulder.
"If you do go up there do me a favor and let Rhanda know her little brother is being an absolute butt." Said Honeymaren as she teasingly pulled one of Áron's dark hairs.
Elsa chuckled as turned her attention the large four peaks that still stood behind the large trees of the forest.
She sighed deeply as an idea came to her. A crazy idea.
"Hey Gale?" Called out Elsa as the wind spirit quickly whistled and made its way next to the fifth spirit. "I'm gonna need a favor from you..
Arendelle
Much like the forest, Arendelle was also busy this early morning. The townsfolk were already opening shop and the dock workers were busy at work as they retrieved new cargo coming in.
There was a long line of children following their teacher hand by hand as they were guided to their classrooms to start their school day.
Anna watched from her fathers study window with her hands folded in front of her. There was already a pile of paperwork in her fathers study waiting for her.
She was quiet as she observed her people, making sure everything was as normal as any day in Arendelle.
And it was. Despite the ever increasing weather change, it still felt like a beautiful day in Arendelle as the last of the autumn leaves fell.
Knock, knock
"Your Majesty?" Came the voice from the overseer of the castle as he peeked his head in.
"Come in, Kai." Answered Anna as she continued to look out to the window.
"Liutenant Damien Matthias as you requested, your majesty." Said Kai as he stepped in with a respectful bow as Damien followed pursuit.
"Ah yes. Thank you for coming, Damien. Please take seat." Said Anna as she turned around to him, finally walking away from the large window.
"The honor is mine, your majesty. Of what can I be of assistance?" Said Damien as he waited respectfully for the queen to take a seat before he did.
Anna leaned back and crossed one leg over as she sat her crossed hands in front of her. She adjusted her posture and sighed. "How are you Lieutenant?"
"I am fairing well, your majesty. We just received the new recruits this morning so they're going through they're first day as we speak." He replied as he crossed his own hands together.
"I'm glad to hear that lieutenant. But.. I'm curious to know how you're really doing. Ever since we returned from the forest three weeks ago." Said Anna more firmly.
Damien was silent for a moment as he registered what the queen was really trying to ask him before he answered. "All is well, your majesty. I have not told anyone what had occurred. Not even General Mattias."
"I am impressed that you've been successful to not even disclose what has happened to your own uncle of all people." Smiled Anna. "But you mustn't worry. I already informed him."
"You have?" Asked Damien with a surprised expression.
"As far as we know the only ones who truly know of Hans existence and what really occurred in the forest are Queen Elsa, Princess Hanna and her party. Kai and myself." Said Anna as she quickly looked over to him who nodded. "And you of course."
Damien was silent again for a moment as Anna stared at him. He finally cleared his throat and leaned forward. "I give you my word, your majesty. I won't ever disclose what happened at the forest to anyone. I am faithful to you and Queen Elsa."
"And I'm glad to hear that, Damien." Smiled Anna. "You've come to be one of my most trusted associates in this castle. And I hope that continues."
"Of course, your majesty. Anything you need.. but forgive me for being bold but if I may ask.."
"Ask away, lieutenant." Replied Anna.
"Do you trust him?" Blurted Damien. "I mean.. can you really trust him over there with Queen Elsa and with our allies the Northuldra.. after everything he did to you--"
"No." Said Anna firmly.
Damien was taken back by the queens bold response and how sure and confident she seemed with her reply.
"I don't trust him. In fact I don't think I ever will." Deadpanned Anna, not holding back her very real response." I don't like him. I hate him. If he were here right now I'd probably order you to execute him."
Damien listened carefully at Queen Anna's bold words. Even Kai adjusted his collar and wiped away a nervous sweat.
"But.." sighed Anna as she looked towards the painting of her sitting on the throne and Elsa posing royally next to her on the day of her recent coronation. "I trust my sister. And if she says we can make alliance with the Southern Isles and contain Hans well then... all I can do is trust her."
A long silence passed as Anna stared at the study desk in front of her. She gently rubbed her thumb over her fathers initials. The large study desk that once belonged to him.
"That's why I'm going to need you by my side more than ever lieutenant." Said Anna as she looked up at him again. "From here on out you are going to be my eyes and ears. My most trusted source. I will need all information you hear from Arendelle or from the Southern Isles to be directed back to me. That includes Princess Hanna as well."
Damien's eyes suddenly looked up at the queens at hearing the mention of the Southern Isles princess as she continued to speak.
"There will be things I ask if you that will seem harsh at times. Do you think you are up to that, lieutenant?" Finished Anna.
Damien quickly composed himself and nodded. "Anything you need, your majesty. I will be at your service always."
Anna smiled softly at him. "I am happy to hear that. From now on you'll have another title within your duty as lieutenant. The Queens Royal Guard."
Damien was taken back by the title as he blinked several times making sure he heard correctly.
"From now on only you will have as close contact with the queen besides my own fiancé and my council." Said Anna. "And my sister of course."
Damien pressed his lips and bowed deeply. "It shall be my honor, Queen Anna."
"I couldn't be happier that you accepted this position lieutenant. Now let's hope Arendelle is as accepting as you were when they eventually find out the former prince of the Southern Isles is alive.." Sighed Anna heavily.
"When do you suppose your majesty will inform the people?" Asked Damien curiously.
"I'm not sure.." Sighed Anna again stressfully. "They're going to find out eventually. Something tells me the king of the Southern Isles will know soon. And pretty soon the word will get out like wildfire."
Damien smirked at the way Anna explained things while she adjusted the Tiara on her head.
"Things will get ugly. But for now.. let's enjoy the feeling they don't." Chuckled Anna as Damien chuckled with her. She stood up to her feet as Damien quickly did the same.
"Thank you for coming in Damien." Said Anna.
"Whatever you need, you majesty." Smiled Damien as he bowed respectfully once more. He turned to leave but stopped until he suddenly turned to face Anna again. "Queen Anna. You mentioned things would get ugly. What do you mean by that?"
Anna's mouth slightly opened at hearing that. Her eyes who were focused on Damien's began to slowly fall as her memories were taken back to three weeks ago.
Ahtohallan
3 weeks ago
"...And now they're all gone. They have a new leader named Hanzo but they swore to leave the forest and never come back." Finished Anna who had been retelling the story to their mother with a very quiet Elsa.
"And how's Hans? Is he alive?" Iduna's spirit asked with her hands folded in front of her as she listened in full attention.
"He's with his sister being treated by Rhanda. He's in critical condition, so we're not sure if he's gonna wake up or not." Elsa replied emotionless.
"Oh no..." Sighed Iduna as she hugged her stomach with worry much like Elsa does.
"So yeah there's that other issue now.." said Anna stressfully as she adjusted the warm coat on herself. "If he dies there's no deal with the Southern Isles which means our people would starve so.. that's great."
A long silence fell throughout the cold and magical glacier. Iduna watched as Anna rubbed her forehead. Than she turned to Elsa who was playing with her fingers as she stared into emptiness.
"And what about you, Elsa? How are you feeling?" Iduna asked clearly knowing her daughter wasn't okay. "You had to take someone's life, after all."
"I-i don't know. I don't know how to answer that, mother.. I'm still in shock. It all happened so fast and my hands still tremble a bit. I have blood on my hands now. I honestly don't know how to feel about that." Elsa told her still with no emotions.
Elsa didn't even know if she wanted to cry or not. She didn't know how to feel. She had murdered someone in the most crucial way she could imagine.
With her own magic.
"You did what you had to do for a good cause, Elsa. Hans would've been dead if not for you." Iduna said.
"Shouldn't he be?" Shrugged Anna with no emotion herself this time.
Iduna turned to Anna and took one step towards her. "Now why do you feel that way darling? Because he almost killed your sister?"
Anna stayed quiet as she looked away. Not even Elsa could say anything to that if she was being honest. Anna had taken the words right out of her mouth.
"You have every right to feel angry at him for what he did to you and Elsa. But at the end of the day I know who you both are." Said Iduna as she addressed Elsa too this time.
"And what's that?" Asked Elsa as she looked up at her mother.
"You're my daughters." Smiled Iduna sweetly at them. Elsa and Anna couldn't help the emotions as tears started to build in there eyes.
"And never forget who I am. You're mother. That same mother who came from the forest and saved you're father even after all you're grandfather did to my people.
There was a brief moment where I thought I should just leave him and let him suffer death. But he didn't deserve it because I knew there was good in him. And it was my sister Nora who reassured me that all of Arendelle isn't evil."
Iduna slowly took another step towards her two daughters again. This time at eye level with both of them.
"There is good in Hans my children." Said Iduna with tenderness. "I know there is. Even if you don't see it now just be patient. There is good in him..."
Iduna stared into her daughters eyes with such firmness and assurance as if she was sure about it. Neither Elsa and Anna could say anything to that.
"I'm so very proud of both of you, my darlings. You have protected my home and my people. Both in Northudlra and in Arendelle.
I know that if you two and your allies could handle those assassins, you can handle anything. Which is why I must warn you that there will be more trials to come. This is only the beginning." She said.
Elsa and Anna looked at each other, sharing the same concerned expression as if they couldn't believe what they just heard from their own mothers mouth.
More than what they just had gone through with the assassins? With theyre people about to starve? With Hans? How could this possibly not be the end?
"What are you saying mother--"
"Time will tell, Elsa." Said Iduna cutting her off as she turned to look at her. "But until then you must be ready. And always have each others back."
Elsa and Anna both nodded together as they looked down to the ground not wanting to disagree with their mother but with that worry of the future still roaming in her mind.
"I love you both so very much." Said Iduna as she smiled gently at them as they looked up to meet her tender loving blue eyes. "Never forget that."
Arendelle
Present day
Anna's thoughts vanished as she looked up back at Damien, flashing him a forced smile and replied. "Just a feeling."
Damien nodded. "Well if you'll excuse me, your majesty."
Anna watched as he bowed once again and made his way through the doors that Kai had been holding for him to go through.
Anna was left alone as she began to ponder her mothers words again.
Tap-tap
Anna furrowed her brows at hearing the noise. She turned to window from where the noise came from and there was Gale with an envelope floating just outside her window.
She made her way and opened the small window where she than reached for the envelope.
"Thank you, Gale." Anna said with a small smile as she retrieved the envelope back inside. As expected there was Elsa's name in the front of the envelope.
She quickly opened the envelope as her eyes settled in and started to read through the letter.
Knock-knock
She was just finishing the letter when she heard the gentle knock coming from the large doors. There in front of the doors was Kristoff.
"Hey Feisty Pants. You ready for breakfast?" He asked with a tender smile.
Anna smiled lovingly back at him. "I sure am. Just one last thing I have to do before we head out. Kai?"
She said turning to the overseer who stepped forward from the doors and bowed. "Yes, your majesty?
"I have a special request for the stable boys." Anna replied.
The Four Peaks
The wind was colder up in the four peaks. There were snowflakes already forming and ice starting to settle on top of the boulders.
Rhanda sat on one of them as she leaned forward, concentrating on the stitching she was performing.
"You're recovering much faster than I thought you would." Rhanda said as she was finishing changing the oldest stitches in a muscular abdomen and installing new ones.
There sitting across from her was Hans with no shirt. Nothing but his dark breachers and boots. His curiosity beating him as he watched the stitching take place with a observant expression.
Just a couple feet away from Hans was his sister Princess Hanna who had small trunks of provisions she had brought from the Southern Isles. Strictly for him.
She was pulling out every item from the trunks and explaining what she got and why she got it for him and even giving instructions. All while Cassandra stood to the side right next to the cave with the rest of Hanna's shield maidens.
His sister reminded him so much of their mother in this moment.
"Almost done here..." Said Rhanda very concentrated as Hans sighed and continued to listen to his sister.
"I also got you more shirts and breachers. Different colors too so you're not wearing the dark and grey all the time." Said Hanna as she started to show him the variety of colors she brought for him.
"I like dark and grey." Deadpanned Hans as Cassandra chuckled and rolled her eyes.
"I got you shampoo, more soaps and macassar oil oh, and please, shave that beard before my next visit." She said as she pulled out a razor and threw it at him which he caught easily.
He rolled his eyes and shot his sister a glare. "Thanks but no thanks. I like my beard. And it's not like I'm following royal protocols remember? Not a prince anymore."
"Than at least trim it! For Gods sake it was fine in the beginning but now you're starting to look homeless." She retaliated.
He sighed and rolled his eyes again. He quickly ran his fingers through his beard and he was surprised. He hadn't realized he hadn't trimmed in quiet some time.
"Yeah being unconscious for three weeks will do that." Added Cassandra as Hans rolled his eyes again.
"I'll think about it." He said grudgingly.
"You better." She said as she closed the trunks shut.
That's it. You're done." Said Rhanda raising from the boulder as she brushed her over Hans stitches, making sure the peeling wasn't coming off. "You know the drill, keep it dry, don't pick on it and wear a tunic underneath or something."
"Yeah I got it." Replied Hans.
"He really does. He's got a new scar to add to the collection too." Smirked Cassandra as Hans rose to his feet and made his way to Hanna.
"Here try this on." She said as she handed him a navy blue tunic to which he grabbed and started putting it on himself.
He adjusted it to fit just perfect and was surprise by how smooth it felt and new it smelled like.
"There you see. No more dark grey colors." She said as she started going in circles to make sure it fit just right.
"Yeah uhh... listen. Thanks for the clothes and provisions, truly but I don't even have a home. I wouldn't know where to put all this stuff and--"
"We're going to relocate you to a new home as soon as I get back from Denmark. Queen Anna gave me her word. I'm sure she's trying to find something but in the meantime just put all these things in the cave or something." Answered Hanna.
"Is that really what Anna said?" Asked Hans as he crossed his arms together as if he didn't believe it.
"It's all part of the deal they signed." Added Casandra as she joined Hanna's side. "So it looks like you're gonna be living free soon Westergaard."
"I've been living free on my own for the past three years now." Retaliated Hans with a small smirk at her before he turned to Hanna again. "But what are you gonna do when father finds out."
Hanna was quiet for a moment and sighed heavily. When she returned to the isles she was going to have to hear the wrath of the king.
"What is there else to do, Hans? I'll have to tell him the truth. " She said as she closed the final trunk. "I don't know what will he be more mad about. The fact that Queen Anna only requested that I come or the fact that you're still alive."
"Orrrr... maybe he'll just be mad because you did sneak out you know?" Added Cassandra sarcastically.
"Thanks Cass. I nearly forgot about that." Said Hanna sarcastically before she turned to Hans again. "We'll see what happens. Regardless I will be back in three weeks. Even if I have to sneak out again."
Hans smirked at his sister. But there was something else troubling her. He could tell there seemed to be some sort of worry crossing her mind.
"What's been going through your head lately? Ever since I woke up from the coma you've been... different." He asked.
"Oh I don't know. Does anything with almost losing my twin brother have anything to do with it?" Replied Hanna sarcastically.
But Hans knew her so well. "Hanna." He said firmly.
Hanna pressed her lips and looked back up at Hans who was still staring at her, waiting to hear whatever may come out of her mouth.
Cassandra and the rest of the woman ended up making conversations with Rhanda and so Hanna took advantage to pull him aside.
"Come." Said Hanna with a deep sigh as they started to walk near the edge of the mountain where they're back can be to them so they couldn't even see or hear what they were talking about.
"What's up." Hans demanded, still holding his bandaged stomach with one hand.
Hanna sighed deeply as she looked out to the landscape again, wishing to find a distraction of some sort but the hard reality sat and so she began to speak.
"The Southern Isles is on the brink of war."
Hans furrowed his eyes. "What?"
Hanna sighed. "A coalition of Swedish kingdoms are threatening to cut off ties to the Alliance of kingdoms loyal to our father."
Hans' eyes widened. "How many?"
"Half of the 60% that pledged allegiance."
"Hanna, that's 30%!"
"And that number most likely will go up if they rally more to their cause."
"Well... what about Lars? He's married to the princess of Stockholm, which is the capital, maybe he could convince King Karl IV to force these renegades to fall in line?" Hans suggested.
"That's exactly what father should do first. Except..." Hanna hesitated to continue.
"Except what, Hanna?"
"Except that King Karl is no longer the reigning king of Sweden." Hanna revealed. "He abdicated about a month ago and his daughter succeeded him. She and Lars now rule over Sweden."
"Alright, so then have father tell Lars to get-" Hans began.
"Hans." Hanna said with a serious tone as she turned to look at him with the same seriousness in her eyes.
"Lars and Stockholm are the ones who founded this renegade coalition." Hanna revealed.
Hans stared at his sister in disbelief.
"...what? No, Lars would never-" Hans struggled to find his words. "H-how? How do you even know all of this?"
"I may be a bit a bit of a renegade myself, but I still attend royal meetings. At least, up until I left against father's demands to come see you." Hanna said with a shrug.
"How long has this-"
"Two weeks after King Karl abdicated, Lars sent a letter to father threatening to cut off all ties to the alliance with The Southern Isles." Hanna explained. "And since then, it's gotten worse."
"How much worse can it possibly get?!" Hans exclaimed.
"Björn sent me a letter a couple days ago. He says several neighbouring kingdoms in Denmark are threatening to overthrow father. The Northern Isles are barely holding on by a thread. Cousin Eric, Queen Ariel, ugh, and poor little Melody." Hanna's hands went over her heart as it ached at the thought of her adorable second cousin and what she must be going through. "Things aren't looking good, Hans."
"Have you told Anna or Elsa yet?" he said after a long while.
"No. But they're going to find out eventually. There's no stopping with what's going on in Scandinavia right now." Replied Hanna.
Hans had nothing to reply with. He was so stunned by these revelations that he didn't notice Tadashi and his group arrive at the Four Peaks with bags on their backs.
"Are you ready?" Tadashi asked.
"Ready for what?" Hans retaliated.
"Not you, your sister. She offered us a ride along to drop us off in Germany on her way home."
Hans turned to look at Hanna with furrowed eyes. "You did?"
Hanna nodded. "I did. It's in the way there anyways."
Hans turned back to Tadashi, who approached him as he adjusted the bag on his back with his men following behind.
"So, Germany huh? What the hell do you plan on doing there?" Hans asked casually, but also with a hint of seriousness.
"Not sure yet. Maybe we'll take a page out of your book, work as mercenaries for a bit." Tadashi replied.
"Mercenaries?" Said Hans.
"Lady Cassandra told us there is a lot of underground work for mercenaries all the time. She's got connections." Said Ivan the large Russian.
"She says the pay is good." Added Isla the Kenyan with his heavy accent.
"Is that so?" He said sarcastically as he turned to Cassandra with a brow raised as she approached the group with a smirk of her own.
"I may know a few connections at the old Snuggly Duckling. Besides you know what they say. Once a mercenary, always a mercenary." Replied Cassandra with her arms crossed.
"You literally just invented that phrase." Replied Hanna as Cassandra chuckled to herself.
"Well I guess there's not much else that would fit for you all. Good luck guys." Hans said, offering a handshake.
"So long my friend." Said the large Russian man as he wrapped his arms around Hans to pick him up into a heavy hug.
"Still... hurt..." choked out Hans.
"Oops! Sorry!" Said Ivan as he let Hans go. He immediately started to cough and hold his stomach in pain again.
The Arabian former league member approached Hans and gave a farewell of his own as he planted to kisses on each of Hans cheek. "Mae Asalama."
Rhanda snickered and covered her mouth from the laughter trying to escape her mouth. Even Hanna and Cassandra wanted to laugh while the shield maidens whispered among themselves.
"Still not used to that..." Deadpanned Hans as he wiped his cheeks with his hand.
"Farwell young Hans." Said Isla as he grabbed ahold of Hans broad shoulders. "And never remember what I taught you. A man who uses force is afraid of reasoning."
"Thanks, Isla. I'll remember that." Said Hans as he accepted Isla's manly embrace.
Then there was Tadashi left. The group made way as he approached him, not once taking his eyes off him. There was a long silence between the two as they stared at each other, that is until Tadashi stuck out his hand.
Hans looked down at his hand for a moment before he accepted it and shook firmly.
"Take care of yourself." Said Tadashi.
"You too." Hans replied.
"Alright well I suppose we should be leaving soon. You guys head down with Cass, I'll join you shortly." Hanna said.
"Bye everyone!" Waved Rhanda innocently as she waved at the men and woman who started to depart.
"Bye kid." Waved the large Russian man.
And so the former league members started making they're way down from the cave. One by one until Tadashi was the last to disappear into the trail.
Cassandra and the shield maidens were following behind until she stopped suddenly dead in her tracks. She turned to look at Hans who was staring back at her with an unimpressed expression.
"I'll see you around Westergaard." She said as she gently touched Hans face, looking into his emerald eyes she had missed seeing. Just like his sisters.
Her hands gently brushed his face as Cassandra left and followed the group behind while holding her swords handle before her unexpected owl landed on her shoulder as it started to coo.
Hans watched her leave clueless yet curious. He turned to his twin sister who was approaching him ready to extend her arms out for an embrace.
Hans returned the gestured and met halfway for the hug.
"Take care of yourself okay?" She said as rubbed her brothers back and hugged him tighter.
"Okay mom." He replied sarcastically.
"I'm serious, Hans. I don't want my next visit be met with you in a body bag." Said Hanna as she pulled out of the hug.
"A lot of people would love that." He winked at her.
"Not me." She replied firmly.
"Aw, you two are cute."
The twins were caught off guard when the sudden voice of Queen Elsa came into their ears. They turned to see her standing there with a teasing smile and her hands neatly in front of her. Bruni sat on her shoulder.
"That feels like an invasion of privacy, Queen Elsa. Not to mention creepy." Hans snapped.
"Pft. Come on." Elsa replied as she rolled her eyes and titled her head in a cute way. "It's not everyday we get to see you act somewhat like a human.
Hans growled inwardly as Hanna laughed at that.
"Queen Elsa, would you care to walk with me down the mountain?" Hanna asked.
"Hanna, she just walked all the way-"
"Did I ask you?" Hanna retaliated sharply before turning to Elsa again. "Your majesty?"
"Hey..." Hans said under his breath.
"I'd love to." Elsa replied with a gentle smirk as she started heading back down to the mountain.
Hanna turned to Hans and placed a kiss on his cheek to which he moved his head away like a little child.
"See ya twin. Love ya. Catch you later and stay safe okay? And write me!" She yelled suddenly as she stopped herself from walking any further down the trail where Elsa headed. "If you don't I'll kill you."
"Fine." Replied Hans with rolled eyes as he watched his sister disappear leaving him empty once again.
"Oh Hans!" Said Rhanda suddenly as she turned to face him. "I forgot to put the cream on you. Come."
"Coming." He said as he walked over to the boulder again where he sat across from her.
"You're gonna miss her huh?" Said Rhanda as she started to apply the cream on her hand.
"What makes you say that?" Asked Hans as he lifted his new tunic Hanna got him.
"I feel the same towards my little brother." She said as a small smile started to tug at the end of her lips. "As annoying and rambunctious as he may be, at the end of the day he's my brother and I love him to death."
Hans smirked as Rhanda lowered the bandage and began to apply the cream on the exposed wound. "You can say that again."
Elsa and Hanna walked down the mountain trail as they engaged in small talk. This wasn't like the first time they met. They were far more comfortable talking to each other and you could see it Elsa's body language.
"I wanted to thank you, Queen Elsa. What you did for me. For my brother... it can never be repaid." Said Hanna as she played with a tree branch in her hands.
Elsa couldn't help but notice how similar her and Hans were. Even in body language.
"It was you who helped us, Princess Hanna. The deal we made with the Southern Isles will surely help us through the future." She said with her hands still folded in front of her.
"I must inform you however. Right now my kingdom is in a bit of a predicament." Said Hanna.
Elsa furrowed her brows. "How so?"
"You probably already heard about King Karl IV abdication to the crown." Said Hanna as she threw the small twig she was playing with to the side.
"Of course. His daughter Queen Judith succeeded the crown. We were invited to the coronation but I was not able to attend due to.. all this going on. But Anna went." She explained.
"Well you see that's where the problem lies." Said Hanna. "My brother is prince consort of Queen Judith. He and the queen had been arranged since they were young. But we never expected them to start a renegade coalition.."
"Renegade coalition? Stockholm??" Asked Elsa with widened eyes. "But.. why..."
"I don't know. This is very unlike my brother. He's very knowledgeable in all things and he knows this affects us. Half of the 60% that pledged alliance to my father are already starting to cut ties." Said Hanna.
Elsa needed no explanation. She was a queen herself and knew what this meant for Denmark.
But she couldn't believe what she was hearing. It seemed like a dream. "How did you hear about all this? I haven't heard a thing and I'm usually the first one in Norway to know anything."
"Things were startling to escalate before I came. But my brother Björn sent me a letter two days ago and it's gotten worse. News should spread to Norway either tomorrow or the day after. I thought you should know before you read on the newspaper. Or hear it from Queen Anna." Said Hanna as she started to gently massage her neck.
Elsa swallowed nervously. "If this keeps expanding, Princess Hanna, then Denmark and Sweden could very well be meeting at war by beginning of next year.."
"I know." Sighed Hanna as she looked up towards the cold sky. "It seems God is testing us."
They were quiet for a moment until Hanna look at Elsa again who was already biting her nail nervously.
"I wouldn't worry too much on it Queen Elsa. As far as we know this pertains nothing to Arendelle. Or Norway for that matter." Said Hanna.
"But now we are in alliance with The Southern Isles. And with Stockholm. This is only going to stress my sister even more when the people start demanding explanations." Sighed Elsa as she rubbed her forehead.
"We'll take it one day at a time. In the meantime I will be updating everything I hear on my end in the Southern Isles." Said Hanna.
"Yes, please do." Said Elsa turning to face her.
"Thank you, Queen Elsa. For everything." Said Hanna with a gentle smile.
"Likewise-- Uff!" Said Elsa as She was surprised to be found wrapped in Hanna's strong yet loving embrace.
She was tense for a moment but very quickly enough Elsa returned the hug herself as they quickly parted ways.
"And please watch over my brother. I know it's silly of me to ask from you and he can be a big handful. But he's my brother. He's.. all I have left." Said Hanna with her tender emerald eyes.
Elsa smiled and nodded. "I will. You have my word."
Hanna smiled as she curtsied respectfully before the queen before she began to walk down back to camp where everyone else was waiting.
Elsa turned around and began to walk back up to the four peaks.
Northuldra
Back at camp the Northuldrans were surrounding the large ship that had its anchor near the land, waiting for people to fill it up with its captain ready to sail it home.
Many of the Northudlrans took a liking to Hanna and even began to give her parting gifts which her shield maidens took for her and helped board inside the ship.
And much to Tadashi's surprise they even began to gift him and his men things. He didn't even know how to feel if he was being honest.
"Do you really have to go?" Asked Ryder who was sitting in one of the tree trunks with Kristina in the other as they held hands.
"I'm sorry." Frowned Kristina. "But I have to return home with princess Hanna. She needs me."
"But I love spending time with you! And my Danish has gotten better!"
Kristina chuckled at that. "I know it has. But keep practicing until I return okay?"
Hanna walked past several of the people who were wishing her a safe passage until she stopped in front of Yelena and Honeymaren who were waiting to bid her farewell.
"We wish you a safe passage Princess." Said Yelena with a tender smile.
"Stay safe out there. The fog can be dangerous." Added Honeyamren with a smirk.
"Thank you for everything smiled." Hanna at the two of them.
Ryder was still lost in Kristina's blue eyes and soon both of them were both slowly leaning in for the kiss, ready to accept whatever may come out of it.
That is until a familiar voice called out to Kristina and ruined the mood.
"Come on kiddo! We haven't got all day. Kiss you're man goodbye and let's go!" Yelled Cassandra as the rest of the woman also watched with a grin on their face.
Kristina sighed. "Well I guess this is it. Until next time Ryder."
"When will I see you again?" Said Ryder like a lost puppy as he quickly stood on his feet with Kristina.
Kristina chuckled at him. "I'll come back as soon as I can I promise. I'll convince Princess Hanna I have to tag along."
There was a long painful silence again. None of them not knowing what to do next.
"Well... bye..." Said Kristina softly as she quickly waved and began to walk away towards the ship.
But when she looked back she saw Ryder standing there like a sad child who lost his puppy as he looked to the dirt floor.
But then something came over Kristina. She immediately ran towards Ryder and planted a quick kiss on Ryder's cheek, completely catching him by surprise.
Ryder stood speechless as he stared at her as she stared back. Her cheeks immediately burning hot red.
"Eep!" She squeaked as she ran back to the ship where Cassandra was waiting with a giant smirk while the rest of the shield maidens waited and applauded at Kristina.
"Whoa. Didn't see that coming, you all right?" Asked Honeymaren with Áron still on her shoulders.
Ryder couldn't even talk. He was completely spaced out.
"Okay.. I'll just uhh... leave you alone then." Said Honeymaren as she walked away.
Ryder was as frozen as one of Elsa's ice statues. He couldn't move a muscle.
"Bye everyone!" Waved Hanna goodbye as the Northudlra saw them off. "Hope to see you all soon!"
The Four Peaks
When Elsa arrived back on top of the mountain she found Hans with Rhanda standing in front of a tree that had been obviously dug in with his sharp axe.
He was standing behind her, showing her how to position herself and when to let go when throwing one.
"You want to make sure you're grip is firm and steady." He explained.
"Okay firm and steady." Said Rhanda shaking her and breathing out as if she was prepared to go on a run.
"Now the secret of a good throw is a good calculation. You have to feel it in you and always be observant of when it's time to let go. Anyone can throw an axe but what's important is when." He said as he gently grabbed Rhanda's elbows.
"Like this?" She asked as she held the axe with both hands behind her head.
"Yes. Now focus on your target and feel it inside you when to let go." Said Hans as he slowly backed away.
Rhanda closed her eyes and took in a deep breath. She opened them again and began to focus on her target. Dead center of the tree. And then she let go.
SLING!
The axe flew across and landed dead center of the tree. Right where Rhanda had been pointing at.
"Oh my.. I-I did it.." Said Rhanda with widened eyes.
"You sure did." Smirked Hans as he went to retrieve the axe from the tree. "I couldn't have done it better myself. Well done kid."
"I didn't believe I had it in me.."'She said as she covered her mouth. Still shocked by how accurately she threw the axe.
"Remember. Always think with this." Said Hans gesturing to his head before he went to where his heart was located. "Not this."
"Ahem. That's some strange analogy right there." Said Elsa as they turned around to look at her.
"Oh hey Elsa!" Waved Rhanda happily.
"You again? Don't you get tired of spying your majesty." Said Hans with an annoyed tone.
"If you mean do I get tired of making sure you aren't plotting a devious plan to destroy us all then no. I don't get tired of spying." Retaliated Elsa with her brows raised.
"Wanna see me throw Hans axe, Elsa? He just taught me." Smiled Rhanda.
"I did you see throw the axe, Rhanda. And you did very well. But I've actually come to talk to Hans about an important matter." Said Elsa as she gently tapped Rhanda's shoulder before walking towards Hans.
Oh.. and Maren wanted me to tell you that she has Áron captive so he doesn't run away." She said suddenly as she turned to her.
"Ughhhh! Again!? I'm gonna kill that little brat." Growled Rhanda as she started marching down to the camp.
Elsa smirked before she turned to face Hans who was rolling up the sleeves of his new tunic past his wrists.
"I assume you are feeling better." Said Elsa unamused as she walked towards the spot he stood in front of the great at view.
"Is that disappointment I hear in your voice, Queen Elsa?" He asked.
She shook her head. "Whatever happens to you is none of my concern. Only your sisters."
"So is that why you murdered Rha's to save my life?" He asked with a brow raised.
Her shoulders quickly tightened as she remembered the cruel image of her magic piercing the former league members chest.
She pressed her lips as she forced herself to remember her mother words and that what she did was for a good cause. She even had to repeat it to herself.
"To save Northuldra? Yes." She deadpanned.
"And me?" He retaliated.
"If that's what helps you sleep at night then go ahead and believe that." She said coldly.
He smirked devilishly as he drove the axe to a nearby log where it would stay still next to the already chopped logs. "Why are you here, Queen Elsa. You haven't came since I woke up three days ago and something tells me it isn't because you missed me."
She was quiet for a moment as he watched him throw logs into the pit where she remembered he started fire at. It was getting cold enough to the point you can leave the fire on even all day.
"I came because we have important matters to regard." She said with her hands still folded in front of her.
"Such as?" He replied as he threw the last log into the pit before holding his stomach from the already built up discomfort.
"You're living arrangements"
"What about them?" He asked with furrowed brows.
"I promised Princess Hanna that you would locate to a new home where she can visit you as she pleases. That way you're not living in the wilderness any longer." Said Elsa.
"So that's still on the table huh?" Said Hans.
"It's part of the deal. Signed and sealed by Anna and myself. Now I was thinking that perhaps we can locate you to the east part of Arendelle near Risør. It's a small community full of retired folks man so chances are not many will recognize you." Said Elsa.
Hans watched as she pulled out a map from her back. The latest edition that was produced just last year with all of Norways towns and cities.
"If not there's always Tyholmen. It's the oldest town in Arendelle and very suburban. Of course you'd be living in a single cabin home away off the neighborhood area--"
"I've already made my decision of where I'm going to live." Hans said cutting her off.
Her brows furrowed and she blinked several times. "What?"
"I've already decided." He repeated.
"But-- how. Where?" She added.
"Well... Here." He said gesturing to the top of the mountain they stood on.
She furrowed her brows. Could she be dreaming? "Why here.."
"It's quiet. Privacy. No one knows I'm alive or that I'm here. Well.. not yet anyways but still." Explained Hans.
"Hold on. Let me just rethink this through.." Said Elsa as she started to walk slowly around in circles. "You would rather live here. In Northudlra than actually live back in normal civilization."
"Why not?" He said shrugging.
"Is there a reason you're wanting to stay here." She demanded as she turned to look back at him again, trying to read any tricks he may have up his sleeves.
"I just told you all my reasons." He reassured. "And this would only benefit you and Anna so you're not stressed out that I'm living with people again. You'd be here to supervise me and could kill me if I cross any line."
"You're saying this all with ease." Said Elsa as she crossed her arms unamused.
"Look if I wanted to take over a forest with magical spirits wouldn't have I done that already? Besides you're the most powerful person in this whole forest. With the spirits on your side. There's no stopping you from killing." Said Hans.
Elsa was silent for a moment as she stared at him. She actually couldn't believe that Hans of all people wanted to stay so excluded from the world.
At her display nonetheless. She would know at all times if he was plotting anything remotely cruel or evil.
"Well. That settles that then." Sighed Elsa annoyingly as she folded the map back into its place and tugged it behind her back again. "All that work for nothing."
"You're welcome." He replied pridefully as he started to walk back to the pit to start the fire.
"Okay well if you're gonna live here we're going to need to set up some ground rules." Began Elsa.
"Oh God. Please don't tel me you're gonna name of list of requirements. I'm gonna live up here. What rules are needed here??" Retaliated Hans with a annoyed expression.
Elsa wanted to punch him so bad.
"Okay fine. But you're going to need a way of transportation. Especially when scouting around." Said Elsa.
"If you think I'm gonna ride those smelly and hideous looking creatures called reindeer than you are not as intelligent as I thought, Queen Elsa. I'll kill them, I'll eat them but I'll never sit in one." He said bitterly as he crouched down to star the fire.
"How dare you! My intelligence should not come into question when it comes to your hatred of reindeers, or anything for that matter!" She retaliated before she took a deep breath to calm herself. "But I wasn't speaking about reindeers."
Elsa puckered his lips and blew a soft yet firm whistle. PHEWWW!
NEEIIIGGGHHHH!
Hans eyes widened at hearing the familiar neigh. His heart seized as nostalgic memories filled his mind.
He slowly stood up on his two feet as he turned to the trail leading up to the mountain where he could hear the hooves colliding with the ground as it grew louder and louder with the heavy breathing from the familiar steed.
Hans couldn't believe it. He knew who it was even without seeing him.
NEEEIIGGHHHH!
Exclaimed the beautiful and elegant horse as it jumped out of the trail and sprinted around in circles freely.
"Sitron!" Exclaimed Hans as he ran towards his old friend, even ignoring his injury that gave him discomfort because in this moment he felt none of that. Instead he felt happiness.
"I can't believe you're here! It's been so long!" Said Hans as he started to pet and hug the giant horse who kept leaping with joy, even bumping Hans from time to time. "I don't need to ask if you've been fed well, you're strong!"
Elsa couldn't help but smile and giggle as he watched how happy Sitron was around his master. And seeing Hans grin from ear to ear like he was a little child also brought strange happiness to her heart.
Hans smiled as he patted his horses face and massage his strong back like he loved. But then much to his surprise he saw Sitron turn his attention to Elsa who still stood with her hands folded in front of her and with a giant grin on her face.
Sitron immediately began to charge for her. Hans was about to yell at him to stop, afraid he was going to knock over Elsa. But much to his surprise none of that happened.
Instead he watched with an astonished expression as Sitron lovingly and playfully roamed around a cheerful Elsa.
Hans couldn't believe it. Sitron never behaved like that towards anyone except Hanna.
"He seems to take a fondness for you.." Said Hans with a raised brow as Sitron gently caressed his head on Elsa's.
"I told you. He's the one that taught me how to ride. I would visit him everyday. Isn't that right?" She said lovingly as she caressed Sitron's nose and placed a gentle kiss in between the eyes.
He was speechless. It's as if she was the owner of his horse.
"We'll I suppose I should head back to camp." Said Elsa as she continued to pet Sitron. "I'll inform Princess Hanna that you've decided to stay in Northudlra."
"Fair enough." Nodded Hans as he crossed his arms.
"But I want to make one thing clear, Hans." Said Elsa as she started to approach him. "I don't trust you. I never will. And believe me that I won't hesitate to kill you if you ever put my people in danger again. Especially Anna."
Hans smirked and straightened himself. "I wouldn't put it past you."
There was silence for a long moment as the two stared at each other. Even Sitron could sense the tension. He felt as if he was watching his parents fight.
"Well I suppose I should be going. It's almost lunch time and everyone is bringing a large amount of food so."
Elsa began to walk away but Sitron began to follow her. "No no. Stay with your dad okay?" Giggled Elsa as she placed another gentle kiss on Sitron who neighed happily.
Hans turned and stared back out to the snowy landscape in front of him. Winter was here.
"Everyone is going aren't they." Said Hans as he continued to look out to the landscape.
"Yeah." Said Elsa as she hugged Sitron. "How'd you know?"
"Rhanda told me. Well... invited me." He said.
"Well I'm sure Yelena wouldn't mind. That is if you want to go. But knowing you you'd probably prefer--"
"I'll go." Said Hans much to Elsa's surprise. He slowly turned to face her and repeated. "I'll go. Sitron's gonna be hungry anyways."
Nothing was heard except the cold winter sky as it passed through them. None of them knew what to say.
Elsa never expected him to ever say that and neither did Hans either if he was being honest. But here they were regardless.
She finally nodded slowly. "Well then let's go."
Hans nodded as he quickly walked towards one for the luggage's and fetched a large apple from his homeland to which he gave to Sitron who devoured it happily.
Then both he and Elsa walked side by side, shoulder to shoulder with Sitron down back to the camp as the cold winter wind continued to blow.
With the future unkown.
THE END.
This book is dedicated to Rhanda. A dear Helsa friend who passed away two years ago when this story began.
Through the blessing of her brother, we decided to keep her memory alive through this story and future stories.
Follow us on Twitter @TheNorthSeries
The North Vol 2 coming soon...
