The North: Winter War

by Gilbert Stories

Winter has come and with it a lot of problems. The ongoing war between Denmark and Sweden has grown intensely and Arendelle finds themselves in the middle of it. Hans has no choice but to accept a deal he might just regret, leaving Anna and Elsa to protect Arendelle at all costs with help from Northuldra. But what will Hans do when he’s forced to reunite with his brothers?

1. The Messenger

Chapter 1:

The Messenger

Arendelle

1812

The Arendellian castle was full of people as they talked, chatted and even danced with one another. Celebrating Arendelle's new king who was crowned today.

But the king was not in the great hall. Nor in his throne. Instead the young king came out of a door where a beautiful garden had surrounded the patio.

He would have stayed even longer if he hadn't heard the overseer continually call his name down the hall.

"King Agnarr?" Called out the nervous overseer once more.

"I'm right here, Kai." Said the young king emotionless which he followed with a tiresome sigh as he joined the small group of individuals who had been waiting for him.

Had another minute gone by Kai would have informed the royal guard that the king had been kidnapped. Everyone was still on high alert ever since the tragic war with Northuldra.

"Ah, your majesty. Allow me to introduce to you his royal majesty from the Southern Isles, King Soren."

The young overseer bowed and stepped aside revealing a young man with his back to Agnarr. His cape was long and dark with bear cut surrounding the top.

He slowly turned around to show if full display his very fine clothing. Crimson and black surrounded him with fine touches with gold.

Next to the royal king were two of his royal guards wearing crimson and gold like unto the king with they're hands behind they're back, taking they're position even more serious than Arendelle's guards.

His crown was powerful, sharp and majestic looking. Arendelle's crown was gold with Arendelle's crest but King Soren's was ancient. Agnarr recognized the legendary crown by the textbooks and history he read about it.

"King Agnarr." Said the king with a slight nod.

His hands behind his back and his posture was firm. Be was tall without even trying, even a tad taller than Agnarr.

"King Soren." Said Agnarr as he bowed just slightly, showing respect to the king. "It is a pleasure to see you again and at my coronation nonetheless."

"It's a pleasure to be here." Said the king. "It's not everyday where we get to see a young man become king of Arendelle."

"Well, not as young as you were when you became king." Replied Agnarr with a gentle smirk. He too showing his respect with his hands behind his back.

Soren smiled for a while until he spoke up again. "Care to join me on a stroll? Perhaps show me around the majestic castle of Arendelle."

"Of course." Said Agnarr before he quickly turned to Kai and gave him a slight nod, sending the message to leave the two of them.

They quickly scattered back into the great hall before Agnarr gestured down to hall as the two of them walked shoulder to shoulder.

Only one guard of each representing kingdom stayed behind. Both of them followed the kings from far behind. Far enough to hear the conversation between the two but also fair enough to supervise and protect the both of them.

"Well. I suppose now that they're gone I can ask you the real questions." Smirked Soren as he quickly looked behind and then back to Agnarr.

"What do you mean, your majesty?" Asked Agnarr as he to looked behind to see if someone was close by besides the two guards.

"Speak to me plainly, King Agnarr." Smiled Soren as he placed a gentle but firm hand on his shoulder. "I've been crowned at a young age too so I understand how you must feel right now.

Agnarr was reminded how the two of them are practically the same age. Soren was also crowned young.

"Certainly a burden to carry today." Breathed out Agnarr tiredly and shaky. "But not as big as yours when you were crowned. At eight years old you must have felt far tiresome compared to how I am now."

The young Southern Isles king smirked as he gently patted King Agnarr's back. "You'll do just fine, Agnarr."

"Why do you say that?" Smirked Agnarr.

"The most important qualification to being a leader, is not waiting to be a leader." Said Soren as Agnarr said nothing but took to heart his words.

They walked around the castle as they each made conversation to each other. Soon enough the two were back at the start where the doors of the great hall remained opened just a few footages from them.

"I'll be in shortly." Said Soren as he gave a slight nod to his guard. The Southern Isles guard quickly bowed and went inside.

Agnarr did a similar expression as the Arendelle guard followed behind.

"So, now that we're alone tell me. How are you really doing." Said Soren with a more relaxed smile.

Agnarr snickered. "How do you think, Soren? Here I am. The youngest king of Arendelle ever and with not one of my family members around. Not even my own mother stepped out of her room."

"She's still grieving huh?" Said Soren as he crossed his arms.

"Nonstop. She won't even talk to me." Sighed Agnarr as he looked out to the crowd of people still dancing and mingling with one another.

"I can't be alone for one second without someone asking something from me. The council especially will not leave you alone."

"I know how you feel friend." Smirked Soren. "Back in the Southern Isles, the council is already pressing me to get married."

Agnarr's eyes widened. "Already? You're only 15!"

"Age is just a number to the council. They're afraid someone is going to overthrow our kingdom." Said Soren as he sighed and looked out to the crowds of people as well.

Agnarr let out a tiresome and shaky breath. "Sometimes I wish I could just trade lives with them for a day you know? Maybe sneak sour and enjoy the company of normal people."

"You haven't snuck out yet?" Said Soren with a devious raised brow. "I do it all the time. Especially when the council has given me more than three migraines."

The two started to laugh with one another before they turned to look at the busy crowd again. They both stared earnestly, wishing they could take off the crown on their heads just for one day at least.

But those days were over, especially for Agnarr. The whole kingdom was looking to him for answers. Even answers that he himself didn't know.

"I should probably head back in before they started freaking out again." Sighed Agnarr while Soren chuckled.

"Duty calls. You might as well get used to not getting enough sleep while you're at it." Smiled Soren.

"Already way ahead of you. I'm running on fours of sleep." Smiled Agnarr as he started heading back into the crowd.

King Soren's smile slowly faded as he watched the young king get lost unit the crowd as everyone started to greet him.

The corner of his vision suddenly got his attention as he noticed a auburn braided haired young girl pass through the crowds of people with another girl who had brunette hair while a woman with scarlet fire hair lead the way.

He watched them leave past the doors and disappeared to the night sky.

Leaving Soren alone to think of his thoughts

---

The Southern Isles

December 30th, 1843

The loud and powerful winds echoed through the whole kingdom. Even to the Southern Isles castle where the king stood firm with his hands behind his back as he looked out one of the large windows where he could see the blizzard completely overwhelming his whole kingdom.

His expression was serious and with no emotional at all. He was in no hurry to turn around or please anyone. It's as if he had calculated something in his mind and he was just waiting for the moment to speak.

Just across the castle there was a soldier trying to get to the castle with the reigns of his horse of his hands as they sped through the horrifying blizzard.

The cold temperature was like nothing any of the citizens had experienced. There was snow everywhere and everything was hard as rock or wet as water.

The people quickly hurried into their homes as they let the guard and his horse pass through the village. On the back of the horse was another soldier. He was laid across the horse and unconscious.

His blood left a trail in the snow as the horse corniness to sprint to the castle where guards awaited them at the gates.

The crown prince had been seeing the whole scene from the upstairs windows. He quickly dashed down the long stairs with purpose as his king brown hair followed his speed.

"Father?" Asked a young boy as he watched the crown prince jump of the final step.

"Stay upstairs, Soren." Demanded Prince Kaleb to his son as met the guards who were waiting at the doors in full attention. "Open the gates!"

The guards quickly did as they were told as they jumped forward and immediately did as they were told. One of them began to turn the large lever as the large gate descended to the ground. The horse and soldiers were able to cross the frozen waters stream below.

They didn't finish opening the large and mighty doors all the way. The horse burst through the doors as it neighed in panic without stop.

Several guards stepped forward and reached to calm the panicked horse. Even it's rider was trying to sooth the animal. There was blood all over the horse too but it was not his. It was the soldier laying in the back.

One of the guards grabbed the horses reigns and was able to seize the large animal as the soldier jumped off.

Kaleb walked past the group of guards with seriousness and impatience showing in his face as he grabbed a hold of the wounded soldier laying in the back and tugged him off the horse in one motion before he guided him to the ground.

The soldier was in very critical condition as he continued to spit out blood from and holding his body in pain.

"For God's sake bring the damn royal physician!" Demanded Kaleb angrily. "Now!"

"Yes, your highness!" Replied a couple of guards in union as they dashed down the grand halls to the physicians room.

"That's it now. Breathe.." Ordered Kaleb as he placed the wounded soldiers hands over his open wounded chest to prevent him from bleeding any further. "..And tell me what happened in Stockholm. What did my brother say."

The soldier gasped in pain once again.

"Speak!" Exclaimed Kaleb angrily at the soldier as he grabbed him by his uniform.

"I can report the news, your highness." Said the older soldier who had been riding the horse. He stepped forward and bowed his head.

"Well what are you waiting for?! Go on!" He exclaimed once more as he stood up to his feet.

"We arrived in Sweden two days ago. We presented the scroll of peace his majesty wrote out for Prince Lars as requested-"

"And?" Asked Kaleb.

"He tore the epistle to pieces. He ordered us out of Sweden. We tried to insist as we were told but he sent a small militia to run us out. Our small party of twelve were captured except us two. We were the only ones to escape barely alive.."

"And what of the other ten?" Asked Kaleb.

"We don't know whether they are alive or not, your highness." Replied the soldier.

Silence followed Kaleb at hearing this. It was as if he was hearing the story of a different man not his brother. Lars of all people?

The physician came running with the guards who had run off to get him. "Apologies, your highness." Said the physician.

He knelt beside the wounded soldier and began to inspect the wound and feel around his body to dictate the pain.

"He will need lots of treatment but he will live.. we must get him to operating table immediately." Said the physician

"Sigh.. All right get him off the floor and take him with the physician before he stains these floors even worse." Demanded Soren as everyone immediately helped the wounded soldier up.

The other soldier who had been riding wrapped his arm around the wounded soldier as they each carried him out with the doctor leading the way.

"And have this damn horse cleaned and put back in the stables!" Demanded Kaleb as he turned to his father.

Not once did king Soren turn around to acknowledge the soldiers. Nor did he look like he was even paying attention to what everyone had just said.

He was still staring out the other windows where the blizzard only grew worse. His hands were still behind his back and he couldn't even see the marketplace anymore. It was covered in deep snow.

The corner of his eye caught his attention where he looked up and saw his son kneeling down and watching from above like the curious child he is.

Soren sighed again as he turned to look back at his emotionless father who hadn't moved an inch at all.

"Father?" Asked Kaleb as he approached slowly the king.

"Hmm." Said Soren as he continued to stare out to the snowstorm. Not once even flinching as his eyes wandered.

"Father.. what shall we do. Lars refuses to-"

"I haven't seen winter this bad in Denmark in a long time." He said cutting Kaleb off who furrowed his brows at hearing the kings strange and quite random comment. "And it's only getting worse. Even our ports are filled with geese that have stayed during the winter with more coming in."

The king was focusing more on the migration of geese rather than the brink of war happening at the moment. Even Kaleb wasn't sure if he was speaking to the same courageous king or not.

"Father." Said Kaleb more sternly. "We must act now. Lars and his wife Queen Judith are not standing down. They've already captured ten of our men and our people are demanding answers. Word is going around that they're even calling for your resignation."

Soren said nothing. He have no expression. He only continued to stare out the window.

"Our militia is strong enough to go against them but I fear we won't have the support we usually have besides the Northern Isles. But even they are having their own problems with the people rioting without end. And I fear it won't be long until Stockholm convinces Queen Anna and Arendelle." Continued Kaleb.

As each second passed by he hoped his father would turn around and give a resolution or an order that would resolve all this. But the king didn't.

Kaleb grew more frustrated. He looked up to see that practically all of his nephews and nieces came to huddle together with their oldest cousin as they watched with curiosity.

Even their innocent minds were able to comprehend the vast problem going on in Denmark at the moment.

Kaleb closed his eyes and breathed out heavily. "Father. You are the king of kings. Surely there is something you can do-"

"Where is your brother Björn."

Kaleb furrowed his brows. He had no clue why he would bring up Björn at this moment.

"He.. uhh. He's still stationed in Oslo, father. He finished his tour a couple of days ago. I assure you he's in safe hands. No Swedish spies had been sent there." He replied thinking perhaps Soren was worried for his safety.

"And your sister Hanna. Has she left already?" He asked while still looking out the window.

"She left to Arendelle with our trading ships this morning father. She took several of her women soldiers with her and her lady in waiting. I would've stopped her but you gave no order to do so.."

The king took in a deep and slow breathe as it dogged up the window in front before the cold vanished it so he could see the viscous winter again.

And then he spoke.

"Send a message to Björn. Give him instructions that he is to go to Arendelle immediately." Said the king.

"Immediately Father?" Said Kaleb with a confused expression.

"Tell him to locate Hanna as quickly as possible. She'll be in the company of Queen Anna and Queen Elsa so it shouldn't take long."

The strong winds echoed the large castle as another powerful snowstorm began to develop.

"And then call a meeting with all your brothers for the next two weeks so that we may ignite a plan for all this." Ordered the king.

"Yes father." Said Kaleb bowing to him as he turned to make his leave and do everything he was told.

"Kaleb." Said the king which caused Kaleb to stop dead in his tracks and not take another foot.

He turned around to his father with his brows furrowed.

"Yes father?"

"All of your brothers."

---

The Four Peaks

January 1st, 1844

Sigh...

The sigh echoed throughout the cave as Hans was sitting in front of the warm fire he had started. He was wearing a coat he he had made from the skin of wild wolf he had recently hunted down. His hair had grown much longer since he had woken up from his near-death experience. His beard had as well, but not as much.

He was deep in his thoughts while the winter storm behind him raged on.

His deep thoughts turned towards his royal necklace, which he took out and started staring at his family crest.

While he did so, his mind started to drift towards the memories of his mother, Queen Nora.

Mother...

As he reminisced, Hans traced his finger over the crest, caressing it with extreme care.

Hans then ended his thoughts as he looked up from the necklace.

Sigh...

Hans sighed again, putting his necklace away and pulling out his Grandfather's dagger, and then grabbing a stick.

He then put the end of the stick in the fire, heating it up before he took it out and began using his grandfather's dagger to shave off the edges. Once that was done, he blew out the spark on the end.

As Hans picked up another stick to do the same, a shadowy figure was seen riding a horse and approaching the cave through the blizzard.

Click-click-click-click

Hans heard the sound the sound of horseshoes clacking against the stone, but he knew that someone was approaching the cave even before that. He could feel it.

The figure was revealed to be Elsa, wearing a dark blue dress with ice crystals and a green cloak around her shoulders. And her hair was in it's signature braid style, waving in the cold winter wind.

Normally Elsa wasn't bothered by the cold, but she could tell that this winter was much colder than any previous one she had experienced.

Elsa then dismounted from Sitron, Hans' dutiful steed that she knew very well, and gave him a nice pet on his neck, thanking him.

Hans turned around to look at Elsa and Sitron. He hadn't seen seen her since December 17th of last year, as it was early in the new year now. Elsa had left for Arendelle a day before her birthday, and stayed for the holidays.

Elsa then turned to look at Hans, who turned away shortly after. Elsa furrowed her eyes at that. She then took a bag off of Sitron's back and walked over to him, her dark blue winter boots clacking on the stone ground.

"Brought you some things from Arendelle." She said.

"Oh, how kind of you." Hans replied with a hint of sarcasm.

"You know, I could've just brought you nothing." Elsa retaliated.

"And I would've been just fine." He responded.

Elsa rolled her eyes and turned around to retrive more things before she turned back to look at Hans' strange new apparel.

"Where did you get that cloak?"

"Ran into a wolf in last weeks hunt." He replied emotionless as he continued to sharpen with his grandfathers dagger.

Elsa sighed and rolled her eyes again. It took little to no time for her to register what he meant by that. "Poor wolf.."

"I don't believe there's a crime for hunting for food in Northuldra is there Queen Elsa?" He asked with obvious sarcasm.

"Whatever." Sassed Elsa as she bent down and picked up the closed bag before throwing it into Hans arms which he caught by surprise. "Hurry and see for yourself if there's anything you wish to have me return."

"Guess someone's excited to head back to Arendelle aren't we?" He retaliated as he began to open the bag.

"More like excited to get away from you. Now hurry up. I have to go check the camp if they need my help with anything." She said.

Hans began to take each item one by one. He rolled his eyes at seeing the pair of scissors and shaving bag. Practically his sister and Elsa had been nagging him about it endlessly.

He retrieved more things but all of them were practically necessities to cover with what Hanna had left that first time she had left back to Denmark. It was obvious Elsa was just refilling and replacing all of Hans needs.

But in reality Elsa was simply keeping her word she gave to Hanna. To watch over her brother.

Hans brows furrowed when he pulled out a strange looking headwear that was knitted horribly and seemed raggedy.

"What... is this..." He said as he held it up with disgusted and furrowed brows.

"It's a knit cap. Ice harvesters use it while working in the cold weather. I asked Anna's fiancé if he had extra he could lend." Said Elsa.

"No way in hell I'm wearing that." Rebuked Hans as he tossed the knitted cap to the side.

Elsa shrugged. "Suit yourself. Freeze your ears off for all I care."

He closed the bag once he finished looking through and put it to the side. He reached for the knitted cap and handed it to Elsa. Then he picked up the dagger again and continued to sharpen the stick.

Elsa walked over to the rest of the bags that were on top of Sitron and stuffed the knitted back into one of those bags as she saw the strong howl of wind passed through again.

"When I was on my way here I saw one of the trade ships making its way to our ports." She said turning to Hans again and fixing her braided hair to be back of her ear.

"Guess my sister can't go more than six weeks without seeing me." He replied dryly.

"Be nice, okay? You're lucky as it is that you have someone visiting you. A loved one for that matter." Replied Elsa.

Hans smirked as he was the stick down next to the fire and stood up on his feet. He turned around to Elsa where they were at eye level now.

"I know." He replied before he started to make his way out the cave with Sitron following behind. "Guess we should go wait for her at camp till she gets here then."

"Yeah about that.." said Elsa as she took a step forward and crossed her arms in front of her.

"Oh Jesus... now what?" Said Hans as he turned around with arms outstretched and a annoyed expression filling his face.

"Anna's coming too."

"With Hanna?" Asked Hans.

"That's what she told me. She always welcomes Princess Hanna at our ports but this time she's going to be coming with her." Said Elsa as she began to pet Sitron again.

"Okay what's the big deal? I haven't seen Anna since we kicked the league out last year." Argued Hans.

"The thing is she's not coming alone.." Said Elsa.

"What do you mean?" He asked.

"Her fiancé is coming too."

"You mean Christopher?"

"Kristoff. Gosh how many times do I have to correct you? And yes." Said Elsa with an annoyed expression.

"Okay I get it. I won't give Anna's man any reason to hate me okay? Oh wait. Too late for that right?" Smirked Hans devilishly as he turned his back to Elsa again.

Elsa growled inwardly as she watched him pick up his weapons and strap them around his waist before he clicked his tongue for Sitron to follow him.

Elsa quickly followed behind as they exited the cave and were met with the viscous storm. Hans bent down and adjusted the cloak around him before adjusting the reigns on Sitron's mouth.

"Just don't do anything stupid okay? It's bad enough that he has to come face to face with the man who almost murdered his soon to be wife." Said Elsa who bent down to meet his gaze from the other side of where Sitron stood.

Hans continued to focus on tying the last reign on Sitron as he ignored Elsa's plea.

"Hans!"

"I get it! Geez! I won't do anything stupid." Retaliated Hans as he stood up.

"And why do you keep bringing your weapons every time you visit the camp? I had hoped you'd lose that habit of yours already by the time I came back." Said Elsa as she watched him jump on top of Sitron.

"Well I gotta have something to protect me from your future brother in law." He retaliated. Elsa's eyes widened. "I'm kidding. Now can we go? We don't all have magical powers that can protect us from this winter."

Elsa rolled her eyes. "You're absurd. I can still feel the cold too you know?"

"Ah, but does it bother you?" Asked Hans with a brow raised.

"Shut up and scoot over." Said Elsa as she placed one foot on Sitron to climb on. Hans offered his hand but Elsa quickly slapped it away with regalness.

"Suit yourself." Snickered Hans as Sitron neighed happily.

Elsa climbed on top with ease with her two legs extended out and away from Hans so they weren't physically touching at all.

"If you fall off it's your fault." Said Hans.

Elsa dismissed him with a wave of a hand as she looked away with pettiness.

Hans and Sitron looked at each other with a smirk. Hans raised his shoulder with a a careless expression. Then he clicked his tongue. "Yah!"

Sitron neighed again even louder and started making his way down the mountain.

---

Arendelle

There was barely anyone outside. Most of the market shops and restaurants had closed down due to the unforgiving blizzard.

Only those who possessed essential jobs throughout the day were outside. Everyone was practically covered in winter clothes with the only thing visible to see was someone's eyes.

Inside the castle it was quiet. There were no future events planned nor any important visitors from other countries coming this time soon except Princess Hanna which is naturally arranged every two weeks.

It was warm inside. Every fireplace of every room and corner of the castle was lit up. Even inside the council room.

"-and let's not forget the growing threat of Stockholm's rebellious faction. As per our new alliance with the Southern Isles, should they and Sweden go to war, we would need to send some of our own soldiers to fight with the alliance militia." Said one of the councilors.

At the head of the table, Queen Anna of Arendelle was sitting down with her right hand over her left hand, both of them sitting on her lap as she listened to the council with a look of seriousness on her face. Instead of her usual coronation dress, the young queen was wearing an Arendellian green dress with a black regal jacket and her Northuldra sash made in Arendellian colours, as well as black pants, green slip on heels with black socks, and of course she had her golden tiara atop her head.

"I am very aware of the growing threat, councilor. I am also very aware of the terms of the new trade agreement." Anna replied with a regal tone. "Which is why, until a war actually breaks out, we shall remain neutral in this conflict. Now, if there is nothing else to discuss-"

"Your Majesty, if I may, there is one more thing you should know." Said a different councilman.

"And what is that?" Anna asked with a raised eyebrow.

"There have been some inquiries from about ten families, all of whom have sons that are in the Arendellian military, that claim their sons are missing."

Anna's eyes widened. "...What?"

"Yes, they say that none of them have heard from any of their sons. They did not return during the holidays and are starting to fear that something may have happened to them."

"Why was I not made aware about this before?" She demanded.

"We just received word this morning, your majesty." Replied one of the councilmen.

This information intrigued Anna. "Well, have we heard any word of these missing soldiers?"

"No, your majesty. But, we can send word to where they are stationed."

Knock-knock-knock

Suddenly there was a knock at the door.

"You may enter." Anna permitted.

The door opened and Damien walked in with his hands behind his back and with Kai holding the door for him.

"Your majesty. Councilors." He greeted with a bow.

"Lieutenant, is something wrong?" Anna asked.

"No, your majesty. I just came to inform you that a ship from the Southern Isles has arrived." He explained.

Anna's eyes widened. She knew what that meant.

"Well!" Anna said as she stood up from her seat and clasped her hands together. "Excuse me councillors, but I have a guest to welcome. However, I want you all to proceed with an investigation into the ten missing soldiers. Starting with sending word to where they are stationed. Understood?"

"Yes, your majesty." They all replied.

"Then we are adjourned." Anna declared.

---

After leaving the council chambers, Anna walked through the castle halls until she met up with Damien, who joined her as they walked together side to side in a respectful distance.

"Your majesty, I happen to know those ten lost Arendellian soldiers. They were some of the first recruits I helped train with my uncle general Matthias." Said Damien.

"Is that so? So you're telling me they're beginners?" She asked.

"More or less. This is barely their second tour. For a group to go missing like this is rare. They're not permitted to be alone just yet." Said Damien as they continued to walk down the hall.

"Well let's hope nothing has happened to them. Do you think you can send word from where they're supposed to be deployed now?" Asked Anna. "Our main priority is that they're safe."

"Yes, your majesty. I'll send word." Said Damien as he nodded and continued to walk.

They met up with Kristoff, who was waiting at the front doors as he paced in circles. He seemed stressed out by the way he was constantly fixing his collar like he was uncomfortable.

His expression also seemed like he was carrying a heavy burden. Almost as if he didn't want the truth to slip out of his mouth.

"Hey Honey." Anna greeted her soon-to-be husband. Kristoff quickly turned around and he flashed a gentle smile at her as she went up and gave him a kiss on his cheek. "You ready?"

"Ready as I'll ever be." Chuckled Kristoff nervously before he turned to the doors again. "It's pretty bad out there, Anna."

"I know. Which is why I wanted to ask, can you help me get my winter gear on?" She winked at him.

"For you my queen? I'd do anything." He replied lovingly.

Anna giggled.

While Kristoff took Anna's Arendellian Green and Purple cloak off it's coat hook, Anna retrieved her green fingered winter gloves, as well as her green head warmer with fur on the inside to keep her ears nice and warm. After Kristoff tied Anna's winter cloak around her shoulders, Anna took off her shoes and put on her green winter boots.

And then they were ready. The couple and their royal guard went to the doors where the guards were waiting for orders.

"Open the doors, please." Anna requested.

The guard bowed and opened the doors.

WHOOOOOOOSSSHHHH!

A huge gust of freezing cold wind smacked the four people in the face. Braving the cold, Anna and Kristoff, hand in hand, went outside the safe warmth of the castle and into the blizzard, with Damien in tow.

At last they reached the dock where the Southern Isles ship was ported. There were six women standing near the gangplank, three dressed in warm winter dresses with fur all around the inside, while the other three had simple black cloaks covering their bodies below the neck.

"Princess Hanna!" Anna called.

The woman wearing the blue winter coat with white fur turned to see who called her name. She smiled and walked over to Anna, pulling the queen into a strong embrace, which caught Anna by complete surprise but she quickly returned the embrace just as strong.

"Good to see you again, Queen Anna!" Hanna said after they pulled away and curtsied to show her manners and respect.

"It's good to see you too, Princess Hanna." Said Anna to her. "I hope the journey wasn't too troublesome."

"Longer than usual but thanks to the Lord we were in safe hands." Said Hanna smiling before she turned to look at Kristoff.

"Hello, sir Kristoff." She said nodding at him.

Kristoff cleared his throat and quickly bowed before the Princess. "Princess Hanna."

Hanna smiled at him but she then noticed who was standing beside the soon to be married couple. There beside them was Damien standing tall and as regal as ever.

His hands behind his back and his Arendellian winter coat covering him. His stare was not at all challenging. He seemed very intrigued by everything the Princess did.

"Hello Damien." She said softly at him with a small smile in the corner of her lips.

Damien couldn't help but smirk back. "Princess Hanna."

There was a long silence between the two as the looked at each other. It wasn't until Cassandra finally bugged in and cleared her throat that they snapped out of it.

"Uh, I don't mean to cut this short, but can we please head inside where it's warm?" Asked Cassandra, who was wearing a coat similar to Hanna's except this one was pure black. "Kristina's not used to such cold weather."

Kristina, Hanna's lady-in-waiting, was also wearing a similar pure white coat with a black bow on the bosom. Despite that, she was shivering as if she were wearing clothes not suited for winter at all. "S-so... C-c-cold..."

"Oh my, of course! Please, all of you, come with me! I'll have my staff get you ladies all some hot chocolate." Anna said as she walked over to the freezing Kristina and helped her to the castle. With everyone else following.

---

After returning to the castle, Anna immediately ordered Kai to have the kitchen staff to make hot chocolate for the visitors. The staff retrieved their winter coats and the group all headed to the parlor where there was a warm fireplace that Kristina instantly darted over to and sat down in front of.

Shortly after the rest of the group made themselves comfortable as they engaged in small talk. Gerda came in with a tray of cups filled with hot chocolate. Hanna took a sip from the cup given to her before she smiled.

"This hot chocolate truly is wonderful, your majesty." Said Hanna.

"It really is." Said Cassandra who also took a sip. Even the rest of the shield maidens and crew were enjoying the hot beverage. The cold made any hot drink incredible.

Anna smiled. "Thank you, Princess Hanna. I myself am a fanatic of all kinds of chocolate. You can call me an expert of sorts. I always want to make sure our chocolates are up to par."

"Well, you've certainly succeeded with that in my eyes."

The small party chuckled as they continued to consume the hot chocolate.

Over the next hour, the group chatted amongst themselves and caught up on how things have been as of recently with this harsh weather.

"Luckily Denmark still has a strong hold of provisions. With this strong winter it's becoming almost impossible to determine who will help or who will not." Said Hanna as Anna nodded in agreement.

"Not to mention the fact with the political war ongoing." Added Cassandra with a deep sigh.

"I've heard." Sighed Anna. "I can't imagine how stressful this must be for your kingdom and for your father.."

"He's taking it better than I imagined. I.. don't know why." Said Hanna in a confused tone. "We lost about thirty percent of our trading partners but I haven't seen him do.. anything."

"What of the Northern Isles?" Asked Anna as she gently shook Kristoffs shoulder to make sure he stayed awake.

He couldn't help it. A warm fire and hot chocolate? They were practically poisoning him to pass out in front of them.

"They're suffering.. my brothers new regime has affected them greatly. They've been forced to take up arms against their own people. It seems Swedens influence reached to them greatly. They acuse my cousin Erik of being my fathers puppet. And now our kingdom and our people are beginning to do the same." Said Hanna as she took the last sip of her hot chocolate.

"A people against its own king is not a good thing.." Said Anna. "Do you have any idea why your brother is doing this? I'm just trying to understand what his purpose is. Especially to go against your own father."

"Lars has always been a rule keeper. Never once wanting to do the wrong thing. He's a man that's very straightforward to the books and prefers factual evidence before making an argument. There's absolutely no reason why him and his wife Queen Judith would rebel against my father. My brothers tried reaching out to him. Even I have. But he refuses to talk to any of us. Last I heard was that my father sent a small party of soldiers to Stockholm in hopes to negotiate a truce and possibly convince Lars to sit down with my father."

"Has he agreed?" Asked Anna.

Hanna shrugged. "I left before they could return so I don't know what occurred. But I've been praying everyday my brother has a change of heart.. We've already sent troops to aid the Northern Isles. And won't be long enough until we have to the same with our kingdom.."

Anna studied Hanna's response as she looked over to the crackling fireplace. She could tell just by the tone of her voice that this ongoing conflict has even affected her.

Even Damien could tell by how affected Hanna was by everything going on with her own kingdom. He was about to open his mouth to add a word until Kristina decided to instead.

"Mmm, yum." Said Kristina suddenly as they all turned to look at her who removed the now empty cup from her mouth. She had left a chocolate mustache on her face. "That was delicious."

Hanna smirked and shook her head as she leaned over and began to wipe Kristina's mouth with her hand.

"Well I suppose I should have Kai and the rest of my staff guide to your respected rooms. That is unless you would like to visit your brother in Northuldra first instead." Said Anna.

"I would like to visit him first if it is okay with you, your majesty." Said Hanna. "I.. haven't seen him since the beginning of last month."

"Yeah and he's not much of a writer." Added Cassandra as the other woman chuckled.

"Then it's settled. We'll go to Northudlra." Said Anna as she rose to her feet.

"Wait, what?" Said Kristoff suddenly as he awoke and stopped a snore from escaping his lips.

"You'll come with us Queen Anna?" Asked Hanna as she too and the rest of her party rose to their feet with a giant smile on her face.

"Surr. Why not." Shrugged Anna. "I've been wanting to visit the Northuldra for quiet some time now."

"But.. Anna-"

"Besides I gotta get Olaf out of this castle. He's been driving me insane being clogged up in here and continuing to ask me when we're gonna go visit the forest." Said Anna.

"Your highness won't you be cold out there? The weather is very strong." Said Kristina suddenly to Hanna.

"Ah, what she said." Kristoff said suddenly.

"Don't worry, Kristina. I'll be all right! We'll all be fine. Besides don't you want to come and visit your boyfriend?" Said Hanna.

Kristina gasped as her cheeks turned bright red while the rest of the woman laughed. "He's not my- he's.. he's just a-"

"You're turning as red as a tomato kid." Said Cassandra as she wrapped her arm around Kristina.

Anna chuckled. "Then it's settled. We'll leave at once. First let's take your luggage to your rooms."

All the woman followed Kai and Damien up the royal stairs happily as they engaged in conversation again.

"Anna." Said Kristoff as he came to his fiancés side. "Northudlra? Now?"

"Why not." Shrugged Anna.

"But Anna it's cold outside. You never know what could happen. And Hans-"

"What about Hans?" Asked Anna with furrowed brows.

Kristoff closed his mouth and swallowed. He didn't expect that to come out of his own mouth either if he was being honest. "I just.. want you to be safe."

Anna chuckled. "I'll be fine, Kristoff. You can come too you know? Bring Sven along so he can be with his own kind for a little bit."

"That does sound tempting." Shrugged Kristoff.

"Besides! You love going to the forest don't you? Catch a little break from the kingdom and what not." She said as she tip toed up to place a kiss on his cheek. "Now come on. Before it gets any darker."

Kristoff smiled as he watched Anna go up the royal stairs. "You betcha!"

As soon as Anna turned the corner and disappeared down the hall his smile vanished and the same stressful expression from before returned.

---

Northuldra

The whole forest had been covered in snow. There was not one spot that was not. Many of the reindeers had their antler covered in fur due to the weather change.

There was hardly anyone outside their huts unless it was absolutely necessary. If not they were inside warming with the fire in the center for all families.

Honeymaren and Ryder were in the reindeers ranch were it was just a few feet away from the camp. There they stood in the center, herding all the hundreds of reindeers as they ran in a perfect cyclone.

It was quiet an impressive thing to see. Even Hans had to admit. The reindeers did this as a defense mechanism against anyone they felt was a predator. Often with wolves, bears or even humans.

Honeymaren and Ryder had purposely frightened the reindeer to cyclone. They needed them to move around and guide them down the snowy hill where they can be seen better.

Ryder placed his lips on the small crafted instrument and blew on it causing a similar grunt as the one a reindeer would usually make.

One by one the reindeers stopped to raise their heads and stare at Ryder. He blew on the instrument again and then all of them stated going down the hill as they followed Ryder to an open field where they could have more space and be seen.

"Come on, go go go!" Said Honeymaren as she patted a reindeer who passed by her.

The air was so cold that Ryder and Honeymaren and many of the Northuldra were covered in reindeer coats which they fashioned themselves normally during this time of weather.

Even a hood was designed in the back that they put over their heads to protect the cheeks and ears from the viscous cold.

"That's quite the strategy." Deadpanned Hans who was approaching her on top of his horse.

Honeymaren furrowed her brows at hearing the familiar voice. She turned around with her hand on on top of her head so the wind didn't blow the hood back.

"What are you-"

"Don't worry I brought you a guest." Said Hans cutting her off before she went off on him.

He turned Sitron to the side where Elsa was visible to see behind Hans as she waved at Honeymaren. She still sat regally with her feet to side and avoiding Hans back side.

"Well. Look who decided to finally pay us commoners a visit." Smiled Honeymaren as she approached the two of them. Her gaze only focused on Elsa of course.

Elsa jumped down from Sitron and met Honeymaren with an embrace. "It's good to see you."

"You're telling me. It feels like you've been gone for years." Said Honeymaren smiling as she pulled out of the hug.

Ryder came from behind, using his staff to go up the snowy hill. He focused his eyes until he could finally see who his sister was with.

"Elsa!" Smiled Ryder as he made his way to her. Half of his face still covered by the reindeer coat they wore.

Elsa smiled and waved before Ryder joined his sisters side. "Hello Ryder."

"It sure is a surprise to see you again. We thought you were never going to come back." He said.

"Well I'm sure if I didn't come back you'd all be fine without me." Said Elsa with a smirk.

"Pah, I don't know about that. Yelena has been asking us every day if we knew when you'd be coming back." Said Honeymaren.

"She has?" Said Elsa.

"She's just worried about how this winter is going. You know how it is." Shrugged Ryder.

"Are the provisions and grains we stored not enough?" Asked Elsa with furrowed brows.

"I think so. I mean we haven't t had run into any problems-" suddenly the wind picked up and cold blizzard passed through all of them.

Honeymaren and Ryder ducked their heads to avoid the gnashing cold. Even Hans turned around to cover his face into Sitrons coat. It felt like a thousand cold needles hitting your face.

The only one who didn't flinch was Elsa. Who simply squinted her eyes as the cold breeze passed through them all. She could see this weather was only getting worse.

"Except maybe that problem!" Yelled Honeymaren as she and her brother hugged each other trying to avoid the cold.

"Come on let's head back to camp!" Yelled Elsa through the powerful wind as she jumped on top of Sitron again with Hans following as well.

Ryder and Honeyamren quickly jumped on top of their reindeers and began to follow Hans, Elsa and Sitron down the viscous and cold trail that led back to the camp

---

Northuldra Camp

The weather didn't get any better even when they arrived to the camp where no one was to be seen. All except a young girl walking from one of the huts with a basket of things in her hands.

Just like Ryder and Honeyamren, she too was covered in reindeer coat fur.

Her eyes furrowed when she saw the group approaching. But then they widened when she realized who it was when she pulled her hood back.

"Elsa! You're back!"

"Hi Rhanda." Smiled Elsa who still sat on sitron with Hans in the front.

"Oh! I'll see you soon I have to take more medicine to a couple of families!" She said as she ran off into another hut.

"Medicine?" Elsa's brows furrowed.

"Just a few of us have gotten a cold from the weather. Ryder technically still has one." Said Honeymaren as she gestured to her twin brother.

"I'm gonna need more hot lemon tea from Rhanda.." replied Ryder as he spat a loogie of boogers to the snowy ground.

Honeyamren furrowed her brows in disgust.

Everyone had been huddled into one single hut where a fireplace was burning inside to keep everyone in the hut warm.

"Come on! I left the fireplace on in our hut!" Yelled Honeymaren as she and Ryder quickly jumped of their reindeers and tied them near their hut.

Unlike humans reindeers were exceptional at surviving cruel winters like this one. Which is why Elsa questioned why Hans was doing the same for Sitron.

"You sure he'll be okay out here?" Asked Elsa as Hans finished tying Sitron next to the hut as well.

"Horses can survive under thirty degree below. He'll be all right." He replied loudly as the loud breeze passed by.

"Are you sure?" Asked Elsa with furrowed brows.

"Look if he does get cold he'll let me know. Don't worry about it." He replied as he patted Sitron and then walked past her into the hut where Honeymaren and Ryder entered.

Elsa turned to Sitron again and brushed her hands on Sitron gently. "We'll be right here okay?"

Sitron neighed as Elsa smiled and then she too walked inside the spacious hut where the loud winter noise somewhat drifted away.

She could immediately feel the warmness take over. The fireplace provided heat for everyone in the hut as well as light.

"There you two are! I was starting to get worried." Said the Northudlra twins mother, Teresá as she rose to her feet before she started to cover her mouth from her coughing.

"Has your cold gotten better eadni?" Asked Honeymaren in her native tongue as she approached her mother.

"I'll be fine." Said their mother as she cleared her throat. "Rhanda should be here with some medicine soon anyways."

She turned to Elsa who stood next to Hans who was dusting off the snow from his coat. "It's good to see you again, Elsa."

"It's good to be back." Smiled Elsa.

"We can't say the same about you however." Said Honeymaren as she gave a annoyed glance at Hans who simply rolled his eyes.

Teresa's mother jabbed a elbow at Honeymarens side, scolding her to be nicer.

The drapes opened and in came Rhanda with her bag to her side and full of medicine.

"All right. Let's take a look now shall we?" Said the young Northudlran nurse as she walked forward and bent down for Teresa as she started to run a inspection on the roof of her tongue with a smooth stick.

Meow

Hans eyes widened as he turned to look down where she could see Rhanda's cat entering with its fur covered in snow. The Norwegian cat moved its little body to dust itself from the snow.

Hans grew nervously. He could already feel his allergies kicking in and even Elsa could tell. She wouldn't admit it but she was enjoying seeing Hans be terrified for once. And of a cat nonetheless.

"Oh man. I think I forgot my instrument at Áile's hut." Sighed Rhanda as she looked through her bag.

"I-I'll get it!" Said Hans suddenly as they all turned to look at him with the most confused look. "Be right back."

Elsa quickly cleared her throat as she tried to hide her chuckle that had been building up before she turned to Bridgette and began to run her hands gently on her back.

---

The ship slowed down near the forest where several Northuldrans were already waiting outside. The wind was so strong and a lot of the river was frozen. Many of the sailors had to break the ice for the ship to sail.

Yelena stood in the front with her staff firm in her hand and her reindeer coat covering her all the way to her head.

The plank settled quickly on the ground and Damien quickly dashed down, making way for Queen Anna who was following close behind with Kristoff, Hanna and the rest of the party.

"Hello, Queen Anna." Greeted Yelena with a smile.

"Hi Yelena- Whoa!" Anna was cut off as another strong flush of wind flew by. Even catching Hanna and the others behind her by surprise.

Cassandra's brows furrowed when she saw Damien grab Hanna by the shoulders to shield her from the viscous cold.

"Right. Let's not stand here, this way." Said Yelena as she guided the party back to Yelenas large hut where she and several other elders would meet to discuss about their people.

Yelena sent word to one of the patrolling Northuldran warriors to inform Elsa and the others that Queen Anna and Princess Hanna had arrived. And it didn't take long till Elsa arrived with Honeymaren and Ryder as everyone started to engage in small talk.

Then the drapes opened again and out came Hans.

"Well look who's still alive." Said Cassandra as she gestured to Hans. Hanna walked past the fireplace and wrapped her arms around him tightly.

"Oof, okay.." said Hans as he tried escaping his sisters strong embrace but the Princess was strong and made sure not to let go until he hugged her back.

He quickly gave a hug back and patted Hanna's shoulders. Elsa who had been watching smirked.

But Kristoff was hidden behind the group, not too far from Anna. He was watching Hans like a fox. The hair on his arms stood up at seeing him again. And it wasn't just from the cold. He liked the cold.

But seeing this man again was bringing out a bigger grudge than what he remembered.

"I haven't seen you in so long!" Said Hanna as she finally pulled out of the hug, giving Hans chance to breathe again.

"It's only been six weeks, Hanna." Said Hans.

"That's still a long time!" Exclaimed Hanna as she punched her brother in his arm to which he hissed and rubbed it soon after.

They were distracted by their own conversation that they heard no one else beside them.

"Hey sis." Smiled Elsa as she hugged Anna. "Kristoff." She also nodded at her future brother in law to which he waved back.

"Long time no see." Replied Anna teasingly with a wink.

"Wait.." Said Ryder as he out his finger on his chin. "Didn't you two just see each other this morning?"

Hans rolled his eyes as everyone stared at Ryder in silence.

"She was just teasing dummy." Said Honeymaren very annoyed as she elbowed her twin brother in the stomach. "I'll handle the adult talk, Ryder. You, go find your girlfriend."

"Right. Wha-no, Maren! She's not my-! Ugh, she's just a friend okay!" Argued Ryder back as Hanna and the rest of her Southern Isles party smirked and giggled.

"Ryder, Maren. Please." Said Teresá.

"Kristina is at the ship tending our things if you want to go say hi." Shrugged Hanna

"You know what. I will. Hmmp." Said Ryder as he gave his sister a glare before he stormed off.

"And there he goes." Smirked Honeymaren as she watched her brother march back to where the ship was left.

"Come everyone. Come near the fire and warm yourselves. No reason to torture ourselves with this winter." Said Yelena as she guided everyone into the circle around the fire.

"Kristina?" Exclaimed Ryder as he approached the ship. "Kristina you here?"

He made his way around the ship wondering where she could be. Then he heard a light humming noise from inside. He peeked his head in and that's when he saw her folding a few things that obviously belonged to Hanna.

Hanna had insisted it was not necessary but Kristina was too helpful. She insisted in finishing up on a few things before she headed to the camp.

"Kristina?" He asked again as he made himself inside the ship.

Kristina's eyes widened when she turned around. Not just surprised because she saw Ryder again but because he was in the royal ship.

"Ryder!" She hissed in a hushed tone as to not be heard by the crew. "Get over here!"

She quickly grabbed a hold of her arm and dragged him down the plank until the two of them were out of the ship. "Whoa!" He exclaimed as he almost tripped.

"You can't just walk into a royal ship without permission! You're lucky the captain didn't see you!" She exclaimed.

"What? It's an Arendellian ship I'm sure it's no big deal to Anna." Said Ryder looking at her. "Hey.. has your Norwegian gotten better?"

"I've.. been practicing. Princess Hanna has been helping." She said shyly before she shivered at how cold it was outside.

"Come on." Said Ryder as he wrapped his warm reindeer coat around Kristina. Practically hugging her for protection of the cold. "Let's head back to the hut. There's a warm fire already started."

Kristina smirked as the two walked shoulder to shoulder.

---

Supper came and went and everyone seemed to be engaged in talk. It was inevitable to discuss about the winter and the supply everyone had stored.

Kristoff would continue to glare at Hans from time to time as he too was engaged in the conversation. Speaking with ease as if he did nothing years ago. It was started to annoy Kristoff.

At times Hans would catch Kristoff looking but Kristoff was quick enough to look away. Hans would simply ignore it and continue on with the conversation.

He still didn't k ow who the man was but he had a feeling. He looked somewhat familiar.

"Thankfully our provisions have helped us greatly during this tough winter. We haven't run into any problems at the moment. All thanks to the treaty Arendelle and the Southern Isles formed." Said Yelena.

"Well I'm glad to hear that." Nodded Hanna. "This winter has been hard for many kingdoms. Including our own. We're going through much adversity at the moment."

"Is Lars still being an ass?" Asked Hans as he leaned over to grab the last fry bread just at the same time Kristoff was reaching.

The two stared at each other for a moment as to who was going to get the final bread. Even everyone else waited impatiently to see who was going to get it.

But Kristoff quickly grabbed the fry bread and took a large bite in front of Hans to which Hans simply stared at him with annoyance like a child had candy stolen from another child. He wanted that native fry bread.

"Ahem. As I was saying.." said Hanna as everyone turned their attention back to Hanna. "Father sent twelve our troops to deliver an epistle from father."

"And?" Asked Hans.

"That's the last I heard before I sailed to Arendelle." Answered Hanna.

"Look I'm sure Lars will come back to his senses once fathers men get in contact with him. He's too much of a rule keeper." Said Hans as he took a sip of the warm reindeer milk.

"I hope your right.." sighed Hanna.

"Well then. I suppose we can go and stretch our legs for a few minutes before you all return to Arendelle again." Said Yelena.

"Outside? In this weather?" Said Ryder who sat next to Kristina.

"It settled down for now." Said Honeyamren as she peeked her head outside the drapes.

"That sounds fine with me. I need to get Olaf's energy out before we head back to Arendelle." Said Anna as she turned to Damien who was standing politely. "Lieutenant, will you please go check if Olafs awake yet?"

"Yes, your majesty." Replied Damien before he exited the hut.

"Who's Olaf?" Asked Hans as he leaned in to whisper at Hanna.

"Apparently he's some living snowman Elsa created. I'm pretty sure I've seen him running around the Arendellian castle. At first I thought I was going insane and hallucinating." Replied Hanna.

Hans furrowed his brows at the strange claim before he looked at Cassandra again who nodded in agreement. "It's true. I've seen him."

Hans realized something as his eyes concentrated on Cassandra's. Her brows furrowed this time as she realized Hans hadn't taken his eyes off her.

"What?" She asked.

"You're hairs gotten longer." He said as he tilted his head just slightly.

"You noticed?" Smirked Cassandra as she ran her fingers through her dark hair.

It's true. For once Cassandra's hair actually reached past her shoulders. It was a strange and intriguing thing to see for Hans. He always knew Cassandra with short hair.

Elsa watched as the two talked. She wondered perhaps if the two were linked in a relationship again or something. Since she knew the two had a history.

If that's the case maybe that'd be good for him she thought to herself.

---

Elsa and Hans were walking with Hanna and Cassandra as Hanna continued to explain everything going on back home while Ryder and Kristina were sitting on a boulder as they continued to talk to one another.

And back at the shore where the Arendellian ship was currently anchored, Anna, Kristoff, and Sven were watching as Olaf rode on Nokk's back, giggling like a happy child.

Kristoff would have preferred to be with Ryder and in the reindeer fields but Ryder was too focused on Kristina at the moment. He looked like a joyful puppy every time she spoke.

He wondered why he even came in the first place.

"Well, looks like Olaf's heart is pure." Anna said with her arms crossed.

"Huh... Does Olaf actually have a heart?" Kristoff said without much thought.

"Kristoff!" Anna said as she glared at him for his rude comment.

"Oh, I just mean literally." He clarified.

"Oh. Huh, never thought about it." Replied Anna.

At that moment Nokk returned Olaf to land, dissolving back into the water.

"How was it?" Anna asked.

"Safe to say, the Nokk has ruined me for regular horses. Not that I've ever ridden a regular horse, but one can assume..." Olaf said.

Suddenly Kristoff gasped as the Nokk reappeared behind him.

"Uhh..." He said as he backed into Anna, who turned around in surprise.

The Nokk stared at Kristoff for a few seconds before it started rubbing it's head against his strong shoulders and arms.

"Ah, hello!" Kristoff replied as Anna giggled.

"I think he's offering you a ride." Anna said.

"Oh. uh, heh, that's great." Kristoff said as he stepped back away from the Nokk. "Ahem. Ladies first."

Nokk then dissolved and reappeared on the oppsite side near Kristoff.

"I think he clearly wants you." Anna said.

"Heh, yeah, thank you Mr. Nokk, but um... I'm good." Kristoff said, crossing his arms.

"Are you afraid?" Olaf asked.

"Ha, no. Afraid of what?"

"Afraid he won't see truth in your heart, and he'll drown you." The living snowman added.

"Uh..."

"Are you?" Anna asked.

"What? No, course not."

"Then get on." Olaf said.

Anna tilted her head in suspicion.

"Ah-ha. Okay, Happy to. This'll be great." Kristoff said as he mounted the Nokk. "Um... Anna..."

"What?" She asked.

"Uh-" Before Kristoff could say, the Nokk took off faster than an racing horse. "WAA! Whoa!"

Kristoff hung for dear life onto the Nokk's back, but quickly realized everything was fine and he sighed in relief.

"See? I knew it would be fine." Anna said while looking at Olaf.

"AAH!"

SPLASH!

"KRISTOFF!" Anna exclaimed as she looked back to see nothing but ripples where the Nokk and Kristoff were.

Suddenly Kristoff emerged from the water with a gasp. "I'm okay! I'm-MMPH!" Kristoff was cut off as he was dragged back underwater by the Nokk.

"Uh, except for the part where his heart's full of lies, apparently." Olaf said.

Anna quickly discarded her cloak, head warmer, and gloves before diving into the water to save her Fiancé. Thankfully the water in this particular area was not freezing cold thanks to an underwater outlet similar to the one from the hot springs further away.

Meanwhile the Nokk slammed Kristoff into an underwater ridge, but Anna quickly arrived to rescue him and bring him back to the surface where they both gasped for air and Kristoff coughed up some water.

"You okay?! You good?" Anna asked with concern.

"I'm good. Thanks honey." Kristoff replied gratefully.

"Except you're lying about something." Anna said, raising an eyebrow.

"No. No, there's nothing-" Kristoff was again cut off when the Nokk splashed him. "Nothing big, anyway."

"Well, how about you say it before he comes back?" Anna suggested.

"Wh-Okay. Uh, I don't like soap pants."

Anna looked at him in confusion. "Oh! That's okay. I prefer you in leather-wait that came out wrong... Anyway so, We're good!"

"Yeah."

"So that's it?" Anna asked.

"That's it." Smiled Kristoff.

Although that was not it apparently as the Nokk splashed him again.

"Yeah, there's one more thing, I don't fancy shoes, or regal jackets." Added Kristoff.

"Not a problem." Said Anna.

"WHOA!" Kristoff was suddenly launched back by the Nokk. "I DON'T LIKE CEREMONIES OR POLITE CONVERSATIONS!"

Sven was worried for his best friend and was about to go help but Olaf stopped him.

"Ah, ah, ah! Best not to get involved." He said.

Kristoff yelled as he landed a couple yards away from where he just was, with Anna swimming as fast as she could to him.

"Anything else?!" She asked with raised brows.

Suddenly Kristoff started getting dragged through the water, with Anna holding onto his hands.

"How about ice mastering and delivering?!" She yelled.

"No! Because it's not a thing!" He yelled back.

"Formal dinners and ballroom dancing?!"

"No, and no, and dancing feels like torture! And I hate manners, for the sake of manners! And big crowds!" He blurted out.

By now Nokk was leading Kristoff straight towards a bunch of sharp rocks.

"Do you even like your life in Arendelle at all?!" Anna asked, worried she already knew the answer.

Kristoff didn't answer but he was growing scared when he saw the Nokk pushing Kristoff near a group of sharpened rocks.

"JUST TELL ME THE TRUTH!" She yelled.

"NO! I DON'T LIKE MY LIFE IN ARENDELLE!" Kristoff finally confessed.

Just then the Nokk stopped dragging Kristoff and they came to a stop, just before the sharp rocks.

They stared at each other for a moment before Anna spoke.

"So, it was all a lie? All of it?" She asked with disappointment.

Nokk then appeared and took them back to the spot where Olaf and Sven were watching.

Her heart felt like it broke into a million pieces right there in that moment. She felt as if she had been with a man who was faking his happiness all long.

She turned around trying to hide her tears building up.

"Anna... I-" Kristoff couldn't bring himself to continue after Anna started walking away.

But then she stopped dead in her tracks before she barely tilted her head to the side to answer.

"I don't think we should get married." Anna said in a soft and saddened tone.

Kristoff's eyes widened at the words that came out of Anna's mouth. His heart felt heavy as he watched her walk away.

---

Hans was whistling a sailors melody as he finished shaking off the last drip of his urine before tightening his breachers again.

He had separated from the group to do his business and promised Hanna he would say goodbye before she headed back to Arendelle.

He found it ridiculous since they were going to see each other the next day but he agreed nonetheless.

He bent down and pulled out his canteen before splashing water into his hands as he began to wash them.

His whistling continued as the last splashed of water hit the ground before he began to close his canteen and dry his hands with his coat. But suddenly he stopped.

His eyes jolted forward. He could feel someone was behind him. And even though it was freezing outside, he just knew it wasn't Elsa.

He stood up to his feet and turned around to meet Kristoff who was standing straight with his arms folded in front of him.

He took off his coat and wore a tan colored coat and breachers with boots that seemed too expensive or worthy for someone such as him.

But his glare was furious and stared deep into Hans.

He was a brawny and large man. Hans could tell by how his arms and forearm seemed to show through his coat. It was obvious the man did hard labor outside.

"You must be Queen Anna's fiancé." Said Hans suddenly.

It didn't take long to put two and two together. It was obvious this was the man who Elsa talked so much about when defending him every time Hans mentioned Anna.

But Hans also remembered him from somewhere. And it wasn't just from the supper they had in the hut. Elsa never confirmed to him this was Anna's fiancé. But she didn't have to. He could tell right away.

He remembered him briefly from when he had almost killed Elsa years ago. He could've sworn he was wanting to come up and confront him instead until Anna stopped him. Only for her to punch him.

"I don't believe I ever had the pleasure of meeting you." Added Hans.

"I wouldn't necessarily say it's a pleasure." Retaliated Kristoff with seriousness in his voice as his glare never once left Hans.

Hans smirked and let out a slight breath. "Right.. Almost killed your fiancé correct?"

Kristoff said nothing. He only glared.

"Or should I say our fiancé. I mean she was engaged to me before-"

"Watch it." Said Kristoff cutting him off.

Hans smirked again and let out a small chuckle. "I'm only teasing big man. No hard feelings all right?"

He began to walk away but a fire inside Kristoff suddenly erupted because he marched towards Hans and grabbed ahold of his shoulders before turning him around and punching him straight across the face as hard as he could.

"Uff!" Hans grunted as he went stumbling backwards. Only lucky enough to catch himself with the nearest tree.

Hans was surprised. That actually hurt him. The punch he landed was lousy and had terrible form but he had to give it to him. The man was strong.

"Well, that escalated quicker than I thought." Said Hans as he spat out blood and began to massage his chin before turning around to face him.

"That was for Anna." Said Kristoff angrily as he clenched his fists.

"Congratulations. How very cliché of you. Yearning for revenge from your fiancés ex." Retaliated Hans.

"You are no fiancé in my book!" Bit Kristoff back.

"I beg to differ, she said yes to me after all." Said Hans with his devilish brows up.

"HEY! Watch what you say about her!" He threatened.

"Or what?" Chuckled Hans darkly. "You're gonna punch me again? Or better yet kill me?"

Kristoff's glare grew angrier. "Not the first time I thought about it."

"Well then you better get in line son. You and countless others want me dead and yet I'm still here. Alive." Said Hans with a sadistic stare. "Now I'm gonna let you have that one. An eye for an eye."

"You should be dead for what you did to Elsa and Anna." Said Kristoff angrily.

"Oh please. Dead for what? Watching over Arendelle while you and the Princess were playing hooky in the mountains?" Said Hans as Kristoffs eyes widened with rage.

"For almost murdering them!" Yelled Kristoff.

"Oh Please! I did what I had to do. And I have no regrets. Now look where I'm at? And now look where you are. Only a wedding day away to becoming prince consort of Arendelle. If anything you should be thanking me for laying out your next destiny in front of you-"

"I love Anna for who she is. Not for what she has. Queen or not I could care less. I'm not marrying her simply for a shot at the throne like you tried." Argued Kristoff.

"Jesus grow up will you? Everybody got their happy ending. You're about to marry into money and royalty. You're future children and their children will be protected for life. They're going to fed on a silver platter and you're still crying about the past?" Said Hans.

"No. I'm here for the future." Said Kristoff as his fists clenched. "Stay away from Anna and better yet stay away from Elsa too. Stay away from Norway! Go anywhere else! I don't care but stay away from us."

"Or what? What are you gonna do?" Challenged Hans. They continued to glare at what another with pure anger in their hearts and in their eyes.

Hans rolled his eyes and finally gave up as he turned around and began to walk away. It wasn't worth it. "Go run along back to Anna."

Suddenly something overcame Kristoff and he sprinted towards him and tackled him down and soon the two of them were tumbling down the snowy hill. As soon as they landed Kristoff began to throw punches at Hans on the ground as hard as he could.

He lands two punches to Hans but the third one Hans quickly grabbed a hold of his wrist and countered by kicking him forward.

Hans jumped back up to his feet but Kristoff did too. He drove straight through Hans and wrapped his arms around Hans body to take him down.

His strength helped too because the tighter he wrapped his arms around Hans stomach the more Hans struggled to escape and breath.

But Hans quickly drove his knee to Kristoff's forearm. Then Hans threw a series of combos to Kristoff before kicking him across the stomach which sent him flying backwards to a tree.

Kristoff struggled to get back up as Hans cracked his neck and loosened his hands. Now he was done being reasonable.

"Fine. You wanna dance? Let's dance mountain man." Said Hans as he removed his wolf covered coat as his eyes began to turn deep emerald

"You're on pretty boy." Said Kristoff sadisticly.

Kristoff charged forward, yelling in anger and so did Hans. They each changed various blows. Kristoff's were straight to the point and each strike felt like a boulder. The man was strong.

He would even grab Hans by shoulder and throw him across the snowy field. Kristoff tried to do it again but Hans quickly jumped out of the way and this time threw him across the field.

Kristoff started to even use hard kicks and as clumsy as they were they still hurt.

But Hans had skill and so at times he would counter and strike too. But occasionally was shaken up when Kristoff beat the odds and struck Hans.

Hans moved his head and just barely missed a large hand from Kristoff. But he quickly took advantage and rolled across the snow to elbow Kristoff calf muscles which took him down grunting in pain.

Then Hans quickly turned him over and began throwing a series of hard punches. Causing Kristoff to bleed from the nose. Hans was going harder now.

Hans raised his right elbow to the sky, ready to drive it down Kristoffs skull. But Kristoff with all the strength he could summon caught Hans elbow with his hand.

Hans struggled to drive it across his forehead and so Kristoff then grabbed ahold of Hans throat with his two hands as hand began to choke out a breath.

Than much today Hans surprise, Kristoff rose to his feet with his hands still wrapped in Hans neck and began to power bomb him straight through a fallen tree which shattered into sticks and branches.

Hans was losing conscious each time the back on his head hit the snow covered ground. But when Kristoff tried doing it again Hans quickly wrapped his legs into a triangle choke hold on Kristoff.

The submission move was so tightly and perfectly wrapped that Kristoff immediately began to turn red. Veins were beginning to pop out from his head and his eyes were rolling backwards.

If Hans kept this up Kristoff was going to die and Hans knew that. He was about to let go and declare victory when suddenly a large blast of ice hit Hans and Kristoff and sent them both backwards into the trees.

Hans rolled his eyes as he massaged his sore stomach from the blast. Who else could summon a power like that?

"ENOUGH!" Exclaimed Elsa got in the way of the two with her hands gestured at the two of them, showing a warning that she would blast any moment if needed.

Kristoff was coughing a lot as he tried to catch his breath while Hans stood to his feet to face Elsa with a annoyed expression.

"What happened!?" Exclaimed Hanna as she came up next to her brother.

Anna quickly came behind with an already attentive Damien ready to do whatever he was commanded. She furrowed his brows as she saw Kristoff still trying to catch his breath and Hans holding his stomach while talking with Elsa and Hanna as he tried to argue his case.

Anna was about to open her mouth and say something when Kristoff finally spoke.

"We were just tussling around. That's all." He said slowly.

Anna furrowed her brows. Elsa looked at Kristoff like he was crazy until he turned her attention back to Hans who also was staring at Kristoff with a confused expression.

He was even worried that perhaps he had hit Kristoff too hard on the head or something.

"Is this true?" Asked Elsa to Hans with a raised and suspicious brow.

Hans looked at Elsa with widened eyes. Suddenly he looked back at Kristoff who gave him a annoyed but sure nod.

"Y-yes. Just boys being boys.." He finally said slowly.

Eveyone else who had arrived were confused by the declaration. Even Honeymaren couldn't believe it.

Elsa stared at him with a unsure and unsatisfied expression. Not at all convinced by either their stories. But she wasn't going to question it further.

"Fine. Just.. clean yourselves up and say your farewells. It's a long sale to Arendelle in this weather." Sighed Elsa as she began to walk away.

Hanna leaned in and whispered to Hans. "Tell me later what happened.."

Hans nodded as he quickly hugged his sister goodbye.

Damien followed behind as well as the shield maidens and with Ryder and Honeymaren. The only one left was Anna who was staring at Kristoff as he rose to his feet.

They met each others eyes but not for long. Anna quickly looked away and began to walk away. Clearly still hurt by their conversation. And now witnessing this? She was not pleased.

Kristoff and Hans stared at each other one last time. Each of them with grudge still in their hearts and longing to fight again. But that would have to wait.

Instead Hans gave him one last glare as he begin to walk away. Leaving Kristoff alone with his thoughts as he looked up to the sky and sighed heavily.

---

The Four Peaks

He sat across the fire as he warmed his hands and waited till the hot glogg was finished boiling.

Hans quickly reached for his cheek and winced. Kristoff had surely left his mark on him. He was going to feel it tomorrow morning and he knew it.

"Making hot glogg?" Came the familiar voice.

Hans turned around where Elsa stood next to Sitron as she gently patted his horse on the back.

"How'd you figure?" He asked as he turned to the fire again.

"Lucky guess. Also I could smell it on the way here." Said Elsa as she walked forward and stood in front of Hans.

"Yeah well I suppose it's one good thing you brought be back from Arendelle." Replied Hans.

"You know a simple thank you wouldn't be so hard." Retaliated Elsa.

She bent down and reached for Hans face to inspect.

"Let me see it." She said as Hans tried to jerk away. "Let me see it!"

Hans sighed as he let Elsa grab his chin and inspect the bruises on his face thanks to the fires light.

Elsa sighed heavily as she frustratedly let go of his face. "Did you really have to pick a fight with Kristoff? Can you not go one day without revolting anyone?"

"Hey don't look ay me he started it! I was just minding my own business and taking a piss." He said arguing his case.

"What even started the argument?" Asked Elsa as she sat across Hans on the other boulder.

"Literally nothing. The guy came at me first. I was being civilized." Said Hans.

"Doesn't seem like something Kristoff would do." Said Elsa as she began to pour herself hot glogg.

"Well you clearly don't know your future brother in law and yea by all means be my guest and have some of my hot glogg." Said Hans sarcastically.

"Yours? I'm the one who brought it from Arendelle." She retaliated.

"Whatever." Said Hans as he took another sip as Elsa did the same.

"So in regards to your brother.." said Elsa removing her lips from the cup.

"The troops will get in contact with him and it'll be fine. Trust me this will all get resolved. It's probably some kind of tactic or loophole Lars found in the treaty between my father kingdom and Stockholm's or something." Said Hans.

"It doesn't sound like it." Argued Elsa as she took another sip of her hot glogg.

"Look within a week or two everything will go back to normal. Lars would rather be put to death than break any rules. Let alone betray my fathers kingdom." Said Hans.

"Well let's hope your right. Arendelle is remaining neutral in all this." Said Elsa as Sitron came up to her. She began to rub his face gently.

"Predictable. Sounds like something Arendelle would do." Said Hans.

"It's the smart move to do. We don't want any conflict. Not this early in the year for that matter. Look at this weather. It'd be Suicide to have a way during this time." She said as she finished the last drop of her hot glogg before she stood up on her feet again.

"I'm leaving. You know it'd be nice if perhaps you wrote an apology letter to Kristoff when you have time." She said.

"Me? Apologize to him when he arrived threw the punch at me first. What's next? You want me to take Olaf dancing? By the way. Why would you create a living snowman. What's the point?" He asked.

"By mistake. I don't have the capability to put him down. He's part of my family." She argued.

"Pah, more like a child." He said taking the last sip of his hit glogg.

"And quit changing the subject. At least think about making amends with Kristoff." She said as she began to walk away.

"I thought about it." He retaliated quickly as Elsa rolled her eyes.

"Make sure he stays out of trouble okay?" Said Elsa as she gently caressed Sitron which the steed grunted back before continuing to walk down the mountain. "Remember. The spirits are watching you."

"How pleasant." He said as he rolled his eyes this time.

He placed Elsa's finished cup to the side before retrieving his own. He reflected on his argument and fight with Kristoff and it only reassured one thing.

He still didn't like him.

He threw his cup to the side in frustration before he rose to his feet and headed inside the cave to call it a night before he got any angrier and headed to Arendelle to find him.

---

Arendelle

The ship had returned back to Arendelle. They exited the ship and quickly headed inside the castle. It was extremely cold during the night. Just as worse throughout the day.

Everyone headed to their rooms. The only one left was Hanna and Anna who walked side by side with Damien following close behind of course.

Anna was being polite and showing her to her room. She didn't have to but chose to do so anyways as a true example of a queen.

"I wanted to apologize again on behalf of my fiancé, Princess Hanna." Said Anna as she and Hanna walked side to side with Cassandra following closely behind.

"There's nothing to apologize for, Queen Anna. Boys will be boys. I grew up with thirteen of them." Shrugged Hanna. "And the good thing is that they're still alive at the end."

"For now." Added Cassandra as Hanna shot her a glare.

"I just don't know what came over him. He's never usually like this. He just.. cares about me a lot I suppose.." sighed Anna.

"That means he loves you then, Queen Anna." Said Hanna as she smiled and placed a hand on her shoulder. They now arrived to her guest room. "And it's quite incredible of him to give up his whole life and follow you into this new world called royalty. God knows this isn't for everyone."

Anna's eyes widened.

"Pfft, I'll say. Royal life is not for me that's for sure. You got yourself a keeper if he's happy to be a part of it." Added Cassandra as she walked from behind.

"Oh.. yeah.. right." Said Anna nervously as she swallowed and looked away. The painful conversation she and Kristoff had at the forest still bothered her mind.

"Well good night, Queen Anna." Said Hanna as she and Cassandra bowed to her.

Anna returned the gesture with a forced smirk. "Good night." She said as she watched them return to their room, leaving her by herself with the lantern in her hand.

She inhaled deeply and let out a stressful and tired sigh as she slowly walked herself back to her room without Damien who she dismissed. The guards stood straight when they saw the queen approaching her quarters.

She said nothing to them. Her head still hung low as she opened the door and entered, immediately shutting them behind her as she leaned on the door.

She closed her eyes and sighed again as sadness and stress filled her face. She slowly opened her eyes again and very slowly removed the flats of her feet until she was barefoot.

She reached for her tiara only to throw it to the floor as it it made a small echo against the fine material of baton diamonds.

She walked past it as if it was a piece of trash on the ground. She walked to her giant window and sat in the edge of the bed and stared out the night cold sky.

He's not happy.

That was all she could think about.

He's not happy and he lied to you about it.

A small tear escaped her eyes as it came down her cheek. Her throat was already wanting to choke out a cry but she would not let herself. She couldn't.

She raised her petite and smooth hands where she could see her ring. That beautiful ring he had given her. The one he has proposed with.

She stared into the fine material. The first time she had put it on she was obsessed. Constantly showing it off and staring at it like she was a little girl who had just gotten the most amazing toy in the world.

But now it meant nothing. She saw nothing and only felt emptiness.

I don't think we should get married.

That's what she told him and that's how it had to be. For his sake so he wasn't forced to give up his happiness to be stuck in misery for the rest of his life.

So she took off the ring from her finger and stood up to change out of her clothes. Then she walked out of her quarters again.

Kristoff didn't sleep in the castle that night. How could he? He didn't know what to say. There was nothing to say because he had to told her the truth.

But now it's as if he regretted even opening his mouth. But what else could he say? He had to be honest.

Sven was already asleep in one of the hays of the castles stables where he was in. He sighed heavily as he made himself comfortable.

But suddenly his brows furrowed when he heard a light rustling just outside the stables. He bent forward where he could see just outside the stables door a light. It was obvious someone was outside with a lantern.

He stood up and walked over where he opened the door and peaked inside. But no one was there. He looked around and found no one. He looked up ahead and that's when he saw what appeared to be Anna walking back up hill to the castle.

He could tell it was her. He recognized the back of her head anywhere even if it was covered in a gown. She was still barefoot and walked on the snow too. It was clear she had come and gone as quickly as she could.

He stepped out but stopped dead in his tracks when he felt something tough in the soles of his feet. He looked down and moved his foot where he could clearly see what he had stepped on.

And there it was.

he bent down and picked it up in his hand. The ring. The same ring he has proposed to her with. She had returned it back to its owner.

Kristoff closed his eyes and sighed. He covered the ring with his whole hand and looked up to the sky helplessly as the cold wind continued to blow.

Anna had officially broken off their engagement.

---

January 2nd, 1844

Arendelle

Morning had come. Anna hadn't slept at all that much last night and every time she did she only woke up to be reminded of her hard reality.

She was tempted to write to Elsa or even visit her in the middle of the night but she didn't wanna be a bother and vent to her.

And to top it all off she had also started her monthly menstruation last night of all times so it was safe to say it was a bad night. A night full of emotional pain and cramps. It was a miracle she had even stepped out of her room.

She was at the breakfast table with Hanna and all of her guests. Each of them engaged in some sort of conversation. But she seemed to be the only one that wasn't.

She had been stirring the sugar in her tea for what seemed hours. But time didn't exist to her at the moment. She only stared into the twirling hot beverage.

"Not hungry, your majesty?" Asked Hanna suddenly.

Anna's eyes widened at hearing Hanna and she was drawn back to reality as she blinked several times. She was not at all focused.

"Huh? Oh uhh.. no not that much." She replied emotionless as she stood up straight again.

"Everything all right?" Asked Cassandra.

Anna felt like she was spotlight at the moment. All eyes were on her even by her own servants.

"I started my menstruation last night. So I'm dealing with quite some discomfort." She replied. Technically she wasn't lying.

"Ahhh." All the women said in union as she nodded their heads in agreement. All woman know the feeling.

"We understand what you mean. Please don't force yourself to be out here with us, Queen Anna." Said Hanna.

"Yes please rest! Don't feel bad on our account." Added Kristina.

"No no! I'll be all right.. I'm taking it easy today anyways and I'm not cramping too bad at the moment." Said Anna as she held the bottom of her stomach.

"Would you like for me to heat up some ginger tea, your majesty?" Asked Gerda respectfully.

"That'd be nice. Thank you, Gerda." Smiled Anna as Gerda curtsied and walked off to the kitchen with several servant following behind.

"Will your fiancé be eating with us?" Asked Hanna.

Silence overcame the giant ballroom again as they stared at Anna for answer. Anna looked to the empty chair beside her.

"Ahem, I'm afraid Kristoff won't be joining us today." Said Anna pressing her lips as she straightened her dress and sat back up again.

"Let's hope him and Hans aren't fighting again." Teased Cassandra as everyone started to laugh.

All except Anna who quickly cleared her throat wanting to move past the subject or any mention of her former fiancé.

Or fiancés for that matter..

"Ahem, so in regards to next months trading supply." Began Anna as everyone turned to her to pay attention. "Would we be able to trade for a little more grain this time around?"

"I don't see why not?" Smiled Hanna. "Last I checked we had a good portion of provisions set for shipment. I can check with my council but there shouldn't be a reason too."

"Good because our farmers haven't been able to meet their deadline. It seems this winter has taken a tougher tole on us than what we had originally planned for. I hate to be a burden.." said Anna.

"No burden at all." Replied Hanna. "It is very important our kingdoms support one another during this time. Especially our ice harvesters. They haven't had much work going on due to our winters being too violent."

"Is that so?" Asked Anna with a brow raised.

"You'd be surprised how cold it gets in Denmark, your majesty." Said Cassandra as she took a sip of her hot drink. "And this is coming from a German myself. They're winters are unforgiving."

"Which is why our ice harvesters haven't had much luck with work. I hope I cannot say the same here though correct? It seems ice harvesting here is in good business this specific winter." Said Hanna.

Anna cleared her throat awkwardly again as Gerda returned with her ginger tea before she laid it in front of her. She reached for it and put to cubes of sugar before she began to mix it. "I will get with Kristoff and see where we are at."

"That would mean a lot to us, your majesty." Smiled Hanna as Anna quickly took a sip of her tea.

---

Just outside the castle there were several Arendellian sailors who were stationed near the docks. Many of them were next to each other as they talked with one another at what they were looking at.

Even gesturing to the open and frozen sea as if they were seeing some sort of creature descending from the waters.

"All right what's all the commotion that you insisted my men to come get me to see?" Asked Damien as he stepped in the middle and several sailors stepped aside for him and his men to enter.

"Lieutenant a ship is approaching." Said one of the sailors.

"A ship? Are you sure?" Asked Damien.

"Aye sir." Replied the sailor as he took out a spyglass from his coat before handing it to Damien.

Damien grabbed the spyglass and opened it as he put it in his eye to see with the other eye closed.

He could barely see it but there it was. Covered in the cold winter fog was a ship. A large ship from what it looked like and it was coming at high speed.

"Do we have shipment coming in today?" Asked Damien.

"No sir." Replied the sailor.

"We'll it's probably one from yesterday. It is winter after all so there was probably a delay." Said Damien as he continued to stare out.

"Sir we checked and no ships are set to arrive today at all. What you're looking at isn't a trading ship. It's a naval ship.." said the sailor.

Immediately Damien's eyes widened and his heart fell to his stomach. Goosebumps rose and it wasn't just cause of the cold.

"Have you informed her majesty yet?" Asked Damien as he pulled away from the spyglass and closed it before giving it back to the sailor.

"No sir not yet."

"Good. I'll inform her majesty. For right now I need you to order your men to hold the docks down in case of any surprise attack. Make sure no citizens are near the streets." Ordered Damien.

"Aye sir!" Exclaimed the sailor as he started yelling commands and letting the nearby citizens know to return to their homes.

"Private." Said Damien as he turned to one of his soldiers. "Go to the queen and to Princess Hanna. Ask if there are any ships coming in today. Come back here as soon as you get word."

"Yes sir!" Said the private as he ran off to do what he was ordered.

"The rest of you form in position!" Exclaimed Damien.

When the private entered the castle he found the women engaging in light conversation. Anna was actually involving herself this time much to her surprise.

He quickly but respectfully stepped forward and stopped before bowing respectfully. "Queen Anna, if I may?"

Anna was surprised by the sudden interruption. She gestured him to step forward. "Yes soldier is everything all right?"

"Lieutenant Matthias and several sailors spotted a naval ship arriving our docks." He said.

"Wait what? A naval ship?" Said Anna as she shook her head and stood up to her feet. Even the rest of the woman did the same.

"Yes you're majesty. The lieutenant asked I inquire from her majesties if there is a delay in shipment that was supposed to arrive today or anything such in that matter?" Asked the private.

"No. Not less a naval ship the least. Princess Hanna?" Asked Anna turning to her.

"N-no. Not at all." Said Hanna with furrowed brows as she shook her head.

"I shall inform the lieutenant." Said the private as he bowed again.

"Yes please do. And bring me word as soon as you identify who they are." Ordered Anna as the private bowed once again and left out the doors back to the docks.

Anna began to worry as she turned back to the rest of the group. "Quickly. We must take cover in case of anything."

Damien and the rest of the men were there waiting. Many of them were in formation and Damien was in the very front with his shield in his hand.

"Private?" Asked Damien.

"Her majesties confirmed there is no delay. They do not know who this naval ship is." Said the private.

Many of the sailors began to murmur against themselves as the intensity began to rise.

"We'll we're about to find out." Said Damien as he drew his sword out. "Get ready."

Several sailors jumped on their own navy ships as they began to line up near the docks, blocking out the approaching naval ship from escaping.

Usually this formation was like a trap where any ship wanted to avoid. But this naval ship didn't seem bothered by it and only kept sailing forward.

"We fire on my command!" Shouted the sailor.

The ship approached and at last it stopped in from of them where the fog disappeared and the large and mighty ship could be seen.

Damien's eyes widened. It was like nothing he had seen before. Even the sailors were in awe. The ship was large and of fine material.

Suddenly a loud horn was heard. The sailors recognized the familiar Scandinavian call coming from the ship. It was obvious it was a viking horn usually used when presenting oneself or a way of warning the enemy. And with the largeness of the ship it did look like a creature that came from the misty sea.

It stopped right in front of the docks as everyone stared at it, waiting for something to happen but nothing did.

A whole minute of silence passed by and Damien was tired of waiting. He was growing impatient.

"Identity yourself!" Shouted Damien with his sword pointed out with the rest of his men behind him.

The rest of the sailors were lined up with their muskets and rifles pointed at the ship while the other naval ships had canons pointed and ready to blast.

Suddenly they heard boots approaching and echoing the ship with each step he took. A man appeared in front of them right at the front of the large ship.

All the sailors and soldiers stared. Confused yet amazed at who they were staring at.

"May I enter your kingdom?" Asked the man in a calm yet fearless tone.

"You will not find us good company!" Retaliated Damien. "You have entered our waters without our permission."

"I'm sure your majesty would beg to differ." He responded. "I bring a message."

Damien furrowed his brows as the man raised his hands in the air calmly. He held a royal epistle in his left hand.

It wasn't until the rest of the fog behind him vanished that they could see what seemed hundreds of his own sailors behind him. Each of them with muskets and rifles in their hands. Canon pointed and ready to fire at command.

But the man in front of them all seemed less worry to do so. As if he wasn't looking for a fight at all.

"Stand down." Said Damien finally as his soldiers began to do so. The Arendellian sailors looked at Damien like he was crazy. "Do it."

One by one each of the sailors did as they were told. All of them lowered their muskets and canons.

The mysterious man in the ship turned to one of the men and gave an order. Damien furrowed his brows. That language was definitely not Norwegian.

Immediately all the sailors behind him began to do the same thing and soon everyone in the docks and everyone in the ship were not pointing their weapons at each other.

"What do you want.." Said Damien. "Who are you?"

Just across the snowy field was Kristoff who had been witnessing the strange interaction with Sven beside him. He still remained in the stables and had barely returned from ice harvesting when he witnessed a massive ship entering the Arendellian waters.

He had a uncomfortable feeling at the pit of his stomach. Something seemed off and he didn't like it one bit. And even though they weren't engaged any longer, he still wanted to make sure Anna was in safe hands.

"Stay low buddy. Something smells fishy here.." whispered Kristoff before he started realizing a uncomfortable smell coming from behind him.

His eyes widened when he realized what it was. "Guess I was wrong.. it's not fish."

Sven gave a cheeky expression as Kristoff glared at him. "And guess who has to clean up your mess, Sven? Oh that's right. Me."

Kristoff sighed as he went to retrieve the shovel to bury Sven's mess.

---

Anna and the rest of the women had come out of hiding when one of the guards informed them that they had all stood down and some men were disembarking from the large ship.

The large doors opened and Damien quickly entered the castle where Anna and the rest of the group including Hanna were anxiously waiting.

"Well lieutenant?" Asked Anna. "Who are they?"

"They are naval ship. That is confirmed. A large naval ship from a different kingdom. They've come with its prince." Said Damien.

"Prince?" Asked Anna with widened eyes.

Had word already gotten around that her engagement is off? She rolled her eyes inwardly at the thought of princes already lined up and throwing themselves at her to be married.

"Prince Björn of the Southern Isles."

"The Southern Isles?" Asked Anna with widened eyes.

"Björn!?" Said Hanna stepping forward. "Björn is here?"

Damien nodded as he waited instructions from Anna who was pacing back and forth with her arms crossed.

Great. Another Westergaard wanting to get his shot at the throne. She thought to herself. It's like she was destined to be cursed with that family forever.

"He says he brings a message, your majesty." Said Damien as Hanna widened her eyes.

Anna was silent for a moment until she looked back at Hanna who was giving her an encouraging stare as if she was asking her to trust her and her brother.

She didn't want to. She just broke off her engagement and she didn't feel like having three of four more. Maybe Elsa's philosophy of staying single wasn't so bad after.

Finally Anna nodded and turned to Damien before she sighed. "Bring him."

Damien nodded and left back to the ports as quickly as he could.

"Hanna.." whispered Cassandra. "Why the hell is Björn here?"

"I-I don't know. I..." Hanna was lost for words.

"Did your father send him?" Asked Anna.

"Bjorn's supposed to be in deployment. Unless he ended his tour already.." said Hanna with furrowed and confused brows.

This week couldn't have started off any stranger. First her engagement broke off and now a brother of Hans has arrived to her shores? What's next. Olaf has a girlfriend?

This was the last thing Hanna wanted to deal with.

"I hope this isn't an attempt for one of your brothers to marry me, princess Hanna.." said Anna.

Olaf who just so happened to me walking by heard the whole thing. He gasped and whispered to himself.

"Anna is getting proposed to? And it's not Kristoff??" He gasped again before he ran off.

"Of course not! I would never allow such a thing Queen Anna--"

But then suddenly Damien returned and with him a small party following behind. They were hard to see with the many guards who were surrounding them.

"Queen Anna I give you prince Björn."

Damien stepped aside and in stepped forward Prince Björn finally at full display.

Anna's eyes widened.

He was tall. Taller than Hans. Even as tall as Kristoff. He had blue eyes and his hair was blond. Short tot he aides but long at the top. Combed handsomely like a sailors and freshly shaved.

His apparel was that of a sailor. Full of rankings and metals. He was dressed with the colors of his country and kingdom.

He was in great shape and that was probably thanks to his service as a sailor. His muscles could be seen through his clothing. He was definitely a Westergaard by his features but he looked different compared to Hanna and Hans. A little more square in the jaw too.

"BJÖRN!" Exclaimed Hanna as she ran forward and jumped to give her brother a large and warming embrace. Catching Anna by surprise at her reaction.

Björn laughed and hugged her sister as he twirled her in circles. "There's my little sister!"

"Oh my goodness I haven't seen you in ages!" Said Hanna as Björn set her down and she grasped his defined shoulders.

"Ah come on. It's only been a little over a year." Winked Björn as Hanna have him a hard but friendly punch on his arm.

Anna's eyes widened. She really did grow up with brothers.

"That's still a crazy long time bozo!" Chuckled Hanna as she wrapped her arms around him again. "Oh it's good to see you again!"

"And you as well, sis." Smiled Björn as he looked up to see Cassandra with her arms crossed. "Cass."

"Björn. Surprising seeing you here." She said smirking at him.

"Oh! Where are my manners. Come Björn!" Said Hanna as she grabbed her brothers arm and pulled her to where Anna was standing with her hands folded in front of her.

"Queen Anna. Please forgive me for forgetting my manners. Let me introduce you to my brother. Well one of them. This is Prince Björn." She said as she stepped aside to show off her brother.

"Ahem, welcome to Arendelle Prince Björn." Said Anna as she straightened herself regally. "We were not expecting you but nonetheless WHOA!-"

She gasped when she felt her hand be grabbed. It all happened tom fast but Björn had grabbed her hand and took a knee in front of her.

Oh God. Not again. She thought to herself. Last time a Westergaard took her by the hand and took a knee in front of her was when Hans proposed to her. And that didn't end well.

"Your majesty." Said prince Björn as he bowed his head respectfully. "It is a great honor to be in your presence. And even though I am not worthy of it. I ask forgiveness for the cruel acts my brother Hans committed to Arendelle three years ago."

He placed his lips on her hand.

"Uhmm.." Anna said as her cheeks grew hot red. She could hear several of her young servants behind her already giggling and whispering at how handsome he was. And truth be told he was.

"I am but a faithful servant to my kingdom and to Arendelle. I am forever in your debt." He finished.

The servants were giggling even more so now. Finally Anna was able to find her voice. "Right. Umm. Please rise to your feet, prince Björn."

He did as he was told as he rose to his feet again with his hands together behind his back.

"What are you doing here anyways? I mean not that I'm not glad to see you!" Said Hanna as she came to her brother's side again.

"Yeah aren't you in deployment, Björn?" Asked Cassandra.

"I ended my tour last month actually. We're stationed in Oslo right now." Said Björn.

"Oh is that so? So you thought of coming to visit Princess Hanna. Well you are more than welcome, Prince Björn." Smiled Anna.

"Yeah. Anytime..." Said one of Anna's young servants with wandering eyes as the rest of the servants giggled again.

Anna shot them a glare to which they all straightened themselves and quickly returned to their composure.

"As much as I love seeing my sister Hanna, your majesty. I'm afraid I've come under different terms." Said Björn.

Oh God... here we go. Let's get this over with. She thought to herself as she prepared for the exaggerated speech as to why she should marry him.

"Different terms?" Asked Cassandra.

"Not so good ones.." he said.

Anna's brows furrowed. She thought he'd be on his knees already. But this didn't sounds good. Now what?

Even Hanna was confused by the sudden change of tone in his voice.

"Björn?" She asked.

"I bring a message from my father, King Soren."

Anna inwardly sighed. That wasn't a good sign.

"Umm. Very well." Said Anna shaking her head by the response. "Please, all of you come sit down and have breakfast with us. And tell me what's going on."

And so they followed Anna back to the table as they each took a seat to eat and listen to what Björn was about to explain.

---

Northuldra

Much to everyone's surprise, Hans had joined the camp early in the morning and was helping Ryder and several others clean the reindeer meat for the hot stew later today.

Elsa was inside the hut teaching all the children the next lesson in reading and literature. She was quite impressed how the children seemed to be faster learners than the adult themselves.

They were all sitting down with legs crossed as they listened and repeated after Elsa. She enjoyed teaching. It was as if it gave her some inner peace and satisfaction.

"All right everyone that's it for today. Now go back to your families and please stay warm." Said Elsa as she noticed one of the children raise their hand to ask her a question. "Yes Delle."

"Do you feel the cold fifth spirit?" She asked innocently.

Elsa smirked. "I can still feel it I just don't suffer from the cold as you would in a normal cold temperature. But in Ahtohallan it is very cold."

"How come?" Asked another boy.

"Well because it's a magical place so I'm able to feel the cold and it is freezing." She explained.

"Can you catch a cold?" Asked another child.

"Surprisingly, yes. I can get sick. Not fun at all." She replied innocently to then.

"Do you ever wish you didn't have you powers Fifth spirit?" Asked another child.

Elsa didn't expect such a bold question. In fact she couldn't even remember the last time she herself had thought about that.

"What are you taking about!? Of course she doesn't wish that!" Replied a little boy as he turned to look at the girl like she was crazy. "She's got the coolest powers in the whole world!"

Elsa chuckled as she gently raised her hand with calmness. "Now now. It's just a question. And a very good one I may add.. truth be told I used to think that growing up. It wasn't easy.."

Painful memories returned to her mind as she thought about her childhood and how she didn't get to even enjoy her life growing up. She's barely starting to even know a world outside of Arendelle.

"..but it's a gift. A precious gift I must use responsibly." She Said finally as she looked up at them again with a tender smile. "Now that's enough questions for today. Go home and eat. Have a good day children."

"Good bye, fifth spirit!" They all said in unión as they rose to their feet.

"Please just call me Elsa. I prefer that name very much." She said smiling at them.

"Good bye, Elsa!" They repeated again together as they all left one by one through the hut with their reindeer coats on as the harsh winter blew again.

Elsa was careful enough to watch the children make it back to their huts as quickly and as safely as possible. Once they were there she headed back inside and began to put everything away.

The question that little Northudlran girl asked kept making its way to her mind. She couldn't lie, she always wondered what it might be like to not have these powers.

Perhaps she would've liked to study abroad and visit many countless of other kingdoms. She probably would have had more time to prepare for her royal duties too.

Elsa sighed as she finished putting the books away and returned to the question that little Northudlran girl asked. Regardless of any outcome, she was indeed a fifth spirit and she accepted a long time ago she was different. Even though Yelena tries to convince her otherwise.

Suddenly the huts draped slightly opened as she saw Gale the wind spirit bring in a envelope to Elsa's hand. Elsa retrieved the envelope. "Thanks Gale."

The spirit whistled as it drifted away again. Elsa opened the letter and began to read Anna's handwritting. Elsa brows furrowed as she read each sentence. Never had her sister written a letter so serious.

Elsa,

I need you to come to Arendelle and bring Hans with you as quickly as you can. Yes that's right. Hans. I promise this is not some cruel prank, nor am I drunk.

Long story short it seems Arendelle may be caught in a political war after all. Even longer story short, Hans brother Prince Björn is here.

He arrived to Arendelle just hours ago with a message from King Soren and things aren't looking good right now. I may also need your counsel.

Please come as quickly as you can. Things just keep getting worse.

Love, Anna

Elsa furrowed her brows. What did she mean by things just keep getting worse? But that thought quickly went away. Prince Björn? Brother of Hans? Well, one of the brothers.

One of the very few Hans get along with from what she remembered him mentioning. Why was he in Arendelle? And why would he bring a message from King Soren?

Elsa quickly jumped to her feet and went to search Hans. She asked around and it wasn't until Rhanda guided her to the other side of the camp where she found him cutting logs to start a fire for the stew.

"Looks like someone finally wants to help." Said Hans.

"Oh hey Elsa!" Said Ryder as he waved and quickly retrieved another log.

Elsa quickly went to up to Hans. "Hans I must speak with you."

"Well hang on I'm almost- whoa!" Said Hans as Elsa quickly tugged him away. "Jesus what the hell was the for-"

"Why is your brother here." She said cutting him off.

Hans furrowed his brows. "What?"

"Your brother, Björn. What is he doing here, Hans?" She asked with more seriousness.

Hans furrowed his brows again but then rolled his eyes. "Nice try."

"Hans!"

"Look Björn is probably on deployment. And I haven't talked to him in years. This is probably some cruel prank by Hanna or someone is impersonating him." Said Hans as he returned to retrieve his axe.

"He's at my castle with my sister, Hans!" She exclaimed following him. "He arrived with a whole naval ship with a message directly from your father. Now I need you to tell me what is going on."

"I don't know!" Exclaimed Hans. "And even if I did you would know before me. Hanna just came from the Southern Isles. As far as I know Björn has no ties with the Southern Isles or with my father because he is in deployment."

Elsa sighed and rubbed her forehead as she looked out to the increasing winter. Finally she said it. "I have to take you."

Hans immediately stopped dead in his tracks and turned to Elsa with furrowed brows. "What?"

"Anna has given me order to bring you to Arendelle." She said with a deep sigh.

Hans took one step towards Elsa. "why?"

"Because you are needed."

"So you can imprison me or hang me in front of Arendelle?" Said Hans with fury in his eyes.

"No!" Exclaimed Elsa. "As satisffying as that would be for the people of Arendelle.. no. Anna is the one calling you."

"I don't trust you or your sister." Said Hans as he started to walk away.

"Oh and you think we trust you!?" Yelled Elsa as she turned to follow after him. "You think it's easy having you around??"

"If it weren't for me Arendelle would've been starving right now. So nag at me all you want--"

"I'm not nagging!" Exclaimed Elsa as she marched in front of him with anger in her eyes. She breathed in slowly trying to calm her temper. "Look.. do you trust your sister?

"What kind of question is that?" Asked Hans with furrowed brows.

"Just answer the damn questions Hans.." sighed Elsa as she rubbed her the bridge of her nose.

"Fine. Yes of course." He finally answered.

"Well I trust mine." Said Elsa. "You have mine and Anna's word. Nothing will happen to you. But you are needed in Arendelle."

Hans sighed and rolled his eyes as he turned and looked out to the clear white snow. Why? Why is Björn here? They had to be lying. There's no way Björn would be here.

Finally he turned to Elsa and spoke. "Fine. Take me."

---

"Maren?" Said Elsa as she popped her head inside the hut. Honeymaren and her mother were making hot stew. Even Rhanda was helping with her little brother Aaron.

"Oh there you are. Come we're just about to stir the ingredients in." Said Honeymaren as she started to drop some freshly chopped reindeer meat.

"Actually I have to go back to Arendelle." Said Elsa as she walked inside. Hans followed behind her as he too stepped inside. "As a matter of fact. We have to go to Arendelle.."

"We?" Repeated Honeymaren with a brow raised as she stood up on her feet. Ryder had come inside the hut just in time with more cleaned meat. "You mean this guys included?"

"Don't look so shocked. I am pretty popular in Arendelle after all." Smirked Hans as Honeyamren crossed her arms and glared.

Elsa rolled her eyes.

"Yeah popular for the wrong reasons." Said Elsa shaking her head. "Look we both have to go to Arendelle because it seems Anna is in a... complicated situation."

"And you need to bring him why?" Asked Honeyamren as she pointed as Hans with her knife while Ryder set the reindeer meat in front of his mother.

"It involves the Souther Isles as well.." sighed Elsa.

"How are you going to hide him?" Chuckled Ryder as he picked up a piece of carrot his mother just chopped and popped it into his mouth. His mother then slapped his hand. "Ow!"

"I.. haven't thought of that yet." Said Elsa as she turned to look at Hans with furrowed brows. "I'll figure it out."

"Well. Good luck I suppose." Shrugged Honeymaren before she turned her attention back to Hans. "Just don't let the sociopath go crazy again."

"Hilarious." Retaliated Hans as he rolled his eyes and headed out the hut.

"We'll be back. Promise." Smiled Elsa at Honeymaren and rest of everyone as she quickly followed Hans behind.

Honeymaren breathed in slowly as a worrisome feeling followed her. Having Hans go back to Arendelle seemed like the last thing Elsa would want.

But if Anna was that desperate for even him to return then something was up. And she was going to get to the bottom of it if Elsa didn't tell her soon.

---

"Okay let's leave before nightfall gets here." Said Elsa as she quickly walked to the waters with Hans following behind.

She stuck her hands out and with her magic created a boat of ice just for the two of them. Elsa was the first to step inside but Hans quickly followed behind.

"The Nokk will help us arrive there faster." Said Elsa as she summoned the water spirit.

Immediately two glowing blue eyes could be seen from the frozen waters. The boat of ice started to move until it took off at high speed.

This was incredible to see for Hans. He had never been on a ship nonetheless a boat at this speed. It's like if the boat had some sort of mechanism helping them.

"I want to make something very clear, Hans." Said Elsa who had been looking out to the ocean. "You are stay by my side at all times."

"Yes mother." Retaliated Hans with his sarcasm.

Elsa turned to glare at him. "If I see for one second that you are trying to hurt anyone or if you do anything remotely close that will concern me- believe me when I say this. I will freeze you to death."

Hans slowly leaned forward. His expression laid back and emotionless yet very powerful. "That sounds tempting."

"Don't push your luck." Warned Elsa. "Now. Swear to me that you'll listen to me.

Hans smirked and stared at Elsa with his unamused stare. "For the record it is you and Anna who are forcing me to come. Not me."

"I am aware." Retaliated Elsa.

"Good. Then you have my word." Said Hans as he leaned back again and raised the furry coat hood over his head to keep warm against the fast winds.

He took a large apple from his home kingdom that Hanna had brought him and cleaned it up before he took a bite of it.

He closed his eyes to feel the cold hit his face. Meanwhile Elsa looked away to the frozen ocean as they sailed onwards

---

Arendelle

Hans squinted his eyes to see where Arendelle was. With the the unforgiving weather in the way, it was very hard to see the kingdom. The only thing he could see is the frozen fjords in the way.

According to his sailors knowledge, Arendelle should be here. At least that's what he came up when using his sailors knowledge and reading the weather and sea.

His eyes slowly focused on the icy wind and then suddenly he could see the fjords and the kingdom more clearer. As if it descended from the snowy fog.

Hans stomach didn't settle well for a moment. He hadn't seen this view in years. Never in his whole life did he think he would ever see it again. The kingdom looked much bigger than what he remembered.

Elsa was relieved they arrived and nobody was around. She was afraid someone would see them and already think the worst. Knowing her people they'd probably go and lynch Hans.

The only ones at the docks were a few sailors who were too busy at work. They arrived slowly and Elsa quickly jumped out. "All right come on. Anna's waiting inside- what are you doing?"

She panicked for a little because Hans was not following her. But when she turned she found Hans standing up and staring at the large ship in front of him.

Elsa had been so focused on getting to the castle quickly without being seen that she didn't notice it. There in front of them and stationed in the dock was a massive ship.

The design was unlike Elsa had ever seen. It was grand, majestic and of fine work. She walked toward the front where she could clearly see the coat of arms hanging in full display.

"I haven't seen a ship like this in... who knows how long." Said Hans as she continued to admire the great ship before him.

The way he looked at the ship was as if he had been separated from his child. Elsa couldn't expect less from a former sailor. But this was not the time.

"We need to head inside now. Otherwise someone is going to see us." Argued Elsa.

Hans sighed heavily as he took one last glance at the ship and then at the coat of arms. "Fine."

He officially stepped into the Arendellian soil and adjusted the large coated hood over his head so to not be seen. The feeling of being officially back in Arendelle hadn't hit him yet.

"Come." Demanded Elsa as she led the way quickly. Making sure nobody was around.

The wind was so powerful that Hans could have sworn he lost Elsa for a second. Luckily he saw the castle just right in front of him. Elsa was already approaching the large doors as the two guards quickly bowed to her in respect.

"Your majesty." They welcomed her before they quickly opened the doors for her to come in. She didn't even have to say a word.

"This man behind me is a guest, sent by Queen Anna herself. Please let him enter. He will be with me at all times."

"Yes your majesty." The guards replied as they quickly stepped back to give space for the two of them to enter.

Elsa entered first as the warm temperature of the castle quickly took over. When she turned around she was surprised Hans wasn't behind her.

Instead Hans was still outside. He hasn't even taken one step. He seemed alarmed as if he was ready to retaliate at whatever came him way. And by the way the guards were staring at him and growing suspicious, it seemed he was ready to fight.

"Hans." Demanded Elsa.

Hans furrowed his brows when he heard Elsa boldly proclaim his name. The guards eyes widened and now fully realized who it the stranger was that was handing before them.

But Hans looked back at Elsa who had her hand extended and gestured him to come in. Hans glanced at the cautious guards one final time before he finally stepped in to the warm castle.

He removed the hood from his head and fixed his hair to the back of his neck again as he breathed out the exhausted cold weather from outside. The guards quickly closed the doors so to not let any snow inside.

Hans looked around the familiar castle. It all seemed new to him yet familiar. He could very clearly see the details of the whole ballroom. Even the large painting and the architecture.

The feeling was strange to say the least. Not just because he was at a castle but because he hadn't seen modern architect in years.

Even Elsa could see how strange this all was for him. It was rather interesting to see how a former prince looked around her castle as if he just stepped out into the real world for the first time.

"This.. is strange." He finally said as he continued to look around.

"What's strange? Seeing a castle again or being back in Arendelle." Deadpanned Elsa.

"Both." He said finally before he turned to look at Elsa again.

A long silence fell before he breathed in. "All right. Are you getting to the part where I'm under arrest now?"

Elsa's brows furrowed. "What are you talking about?"

"Come on isn't it obvious? There's three of your men hiding behind those plants." He said as he gestured to the set of plants where not one person could be found. "There's also several men lurking around the corner over there."

Again Elsa looked at him like he was crazy. She looked over and found no one.

"I assume the rest of the militia is upstairs. Right?" He said with a louder voice as it echoed the empty castle.

But suddenly Elsa heard a familiar and exaggerated sigh. "All right everyone out."

Immediately there were as much as fifty Arendellian soldiers come out of every single place Hans had mentioned. Elsa couldn't believe it.

Then Anna stepped forward with Hanna and Cassandra following behind.

"Your majesty." He said nodding at Anna with obvious sarcasm in his tone.

"Hans. Apologies for the way you were welcomed but we can never be too sure of a former convict of Arendelle can we?" Anna deadpanned.

"Is that your way of saying welcome back?" Smirked Hans.

Anna rolled her eyes and gave a dismissive wave with her hand. "Everybody out."

Immediately all the soldiers began to leave their post one by one. All except Damien of course. They all exited the castle in the same direction Elsa and Hans came from.

Almost all of them were giving Hans a grudging glare. Hans only stared back with his unamused and challenging smirk. The last of the soldiers left the castle as Elsa and Hans turned to look back at Anna.

"Why am I summoned." Hans suddenly demanded. "Or did my sister put you up to this."

"Hey!" Exclaimed Hanna as they started following Anna down the royal steps with Cassandra and the group of women following behind.

"Good question right?" Sighed Anna as she finally touched the floor. "Why don't you ask your brother why I was in such a hurry to bring you back to Arendelle of all places."

Hans rolled his eyes. "Okay. How long will this prank gonna last? Why would a brother of mine be here--"

"Hans." Said Hanna as she stepped forward. "It's Björn."

Hans brows furrowed at hearing that name come out of his sisters mouth. "Björn?" He repeated.

"Guess you can't stay out of trouble can you!" Came the sudden large exclaim. Everyone turned to the voice and could see the tall handsome prince come from the corner with a smirk on his face.

He indeed was handsome. Even Elsa could tell. But she could also see immediately how Hans emerald eyes widened and suddenly came to life with joy.

"Holy Christ.." said Hans slowly as a smile suddenly overtook his face. "What the hell are you doing here!?"

They met halfway and immediately wrapped themselves into a brotherly hug as they laughed with one another as they patted their backs.

A small smirk appeared in the corner of Elsa's lips. It was so strange to see this side of Hans.

"I could ask you the same thing!" Chuckled Björn as they stepped back from the hug and grabbed a whole of hand face and began to slap his face in a brotherly way. "And with a beard? Look at you you're starting to look like father."

"Shut up!" Chuckled Hans as he pushed his brother who also returned with a laugh.

Elsa glanced at Hanna who was smiling at her two brothers. Even a small tear filling her eyes. It was clear she loved them both. But more importantly, she loved seeing Hans smile again.

Björn sighed as he grabbed Hans shoulders. "Still causing a ruckus everywhere you go huh little brother? I was scared I was going to have to step in and stop you from using grandfathers dagger."

"You knew?" Replied Hans with a smirk.

"I knew it had to be you who stole it the same night you went missing." Chuckled Björn.

Björn turned his attention to Elsa who was standing behind Hans and watching the interaction. He quickly stepped aside and walked over to Elsa before he took a knee and grabbed her hand much in the same manner he did with Anna.

"Your majesty, you must be the great Queen Elsa." He began.

"Oh! Uhh.." said Elsa as she quickly glanced at Anna who raised her shoulder. "You are so kind.. prince Björn. It is an honor to meet you."

"I assure you the honor is all mine, Your Majesty." Said Björn as he was about to place a gentle kiss on Elsa's back of the hand. "I am but your humble servant."

All the young servants were giggling again as they turned red in the cheeks.

Elsa quickly cleared her throat and brought her hand back before he could kiss it. "Yes well.. thank you Prince Björn. And for traveling all this way to see us."

She had to admit the prince had manners. He was well trained. Then again so was Hans when he was prince. Guess all the Westergaard boys are the same.

"Yeah why are you here man." Said Hans as he stepped forward. "Not that I'm not glad to see you but.. did Hanna invite you?"

"Nope. Trust me you would have known if I did." Replied Hanna.

"I wish I came with good news brother. But the truth is.. I don't." Said Björn.

"What news?" Said Hans with furrowed brows.

"Yes, please explain to Queen Elsa and Hans what you told me, prince Björn." Said Anna as she quickly sat in her throne with Elsa who came to stand next to her.

Elsa was eager to find out what was going on and even began to get a little nervous.

"Father.. brings a message." Sighed Björn.

"Father? What does he want." Said Hans as Hanna came to his side.

Björn took a deep breath. "The war with Stockholm has gotten worse Hans."

Elsa's eyes widened.

"How much worse?" Asked Hans. "I thought father would have handled this already."

"He can't anymore, Hans. Half of Denmark in the north is already turning against our cousin Eric. The people are revolting. Their kingdom is running out of provisions and their farmers don't have enough to crop anymore. It's too far in the winter."

"What?" Asked Elsa with a worried tone as Anna began to rub her stressful headache.

"On top of that father sent twelve of our men to negotiate with Lars." Said Bjorn's

"Yeah Hanna told me about that. And? Did they return?" Asked Hans.

"... Only two." Replied Björn worrisome whispers and mumbling filled the room. "The two that returned were greatly injured. Our doctor could not save one of them."

Hans eyes widened again before he quickly shook his head. "No.. you're lying."

"I wish I were brother." Sighed Björn as he followed Hans who walked a few steps before turning to look at him.

"Why is Lars doing this? I don't get this. Have you not reached out to him?" Asked Hans.

"We all have, Hans." Retaliated Hanna. "We've tried and he refuses to listen. He's already declared a decree that if anyone steps a foot into Sweden without their permission that they will be slain."

The nervous mumbling returned.

Anna sighed heavily. "This is not good.."

"Our cousin in the Northern Isles has been hit hard. The people have gone against Eric and riots have already begun. They had to evacuate a quarter of the kingdom because of the madness." Added Björn.

"Father can't just stand there. Have they sent back up to the Northern Isles yet? Send Kaleb to stop Lars. Do something!" Argued Hans.

"We've tried everything, Hans." Said Björn. "Nothing can be done. Which is why I'm here.. with you today."

Hans furrowed his brows again. "What are you getting at?" He asked suspiciously. Even Elsa was confused by the sudden statement.

"Excuse me, if I may?" Said Elsa as she stepped forward. "While this all sounds extreme upsetting I just fail to undertake how this would pertain to Hans. He shares no border with Sweden or Denmark."

Björn's attention turned to Anna as if he was waiting for her to say something. Quickly everyone else caught on and they all turned to look at Anna.

Anna sighed and stood on her feet as she retrieved a royal epistle in her hand. Hans could see the Southern Isles crest stamped on it.

Anna opened the epistle and began to read:

Queen Anna of Arendelle,

I, King Soren of the Southern aisles. King of Kings. Declare that Hans Christian Westergaard. Former prince and citizen of the Southern Isles, is to return to Denmark immediately.

By way of decree he is to report to our castle as early as next week to answer for all his crimes against the Southern Isles and must face probation--

"What!?" Exclaimed Elsa by mistake. "Forgive me but King Soren cannot demand Hans to return when we have a clear contract with him."

"I'm afraid he can Elsa.." said Anna.

"How?" Questioned Elsa.

"My father has found a loophole." Sighed Hanna who has her arms crossed. "He found a loophole through one of our old laws that any man who commits crime against the Southern Isles is to be held responsible regardless."

"But Hans crimes were committed in Arendelle. Not the Southern Isles." Argued Elsa.

"But he escaped imprisonment in the Southern Isles.. thanks to me." Sighed Hanna.

"There's nothing I can do, Elsa. It's way beyond my jurisdiction. I must respect Denmarks law. Especially from a king of kinds." Said Anna.

Elsa turned to Hans who had his back to them as he shook his head in obvious annoyance. "I knew this was a set up."

Elsa widened her eyes and was about to speak until Björn came forward.

"The thing is Father knew that is the only way to bring you back to the Isles, Hans." Said Björn as everyone listened with widened and confused eyes. "He knew you wouldn't agree if he just simply told you to come."

"What are you trying to say?" Asked Hans with confused and furrowed brows as he turned to face him.

A long silence fell before Björn finally looked at him and answered. "He wants all his sons to return to the Southern Isles immediately. All of us. He's calling a meeting and he specifically said you need to come to."

Hans eyes widened. "What?"

"We're being summoned, hans. You and I and the rest of our brothers."

"All twelve of you?" Asked Cassandra.

Björn nodded as Elsa looked at Anna who also straightened forward in attention.

"No." Argued Hans as everyone turned to look at him."

"Hans-"

"No." Said Hans cutting his sister off before she can get a word in. "I'm not returning."

"We don't have a choice, Hans. We're being summoned." Retaliated Björn as Hans started to walk away from him. "And you're being ordered!"

"I do have a choice. I'm not a prince anymore.. as far as I'm concerned I'm not a Westergaard either. This is fathers problem not mine. He is king and he has Kaleb to fix this." Argued Hans.

"Hans father is ordering it. If you refuse then..." said Björn.

"What?" Asked Hans as he turned around.

Björn sighed nervously. "Father will have you killed. And he will break the contract alliance with Arendelle."

Elsa marched forward in anger. "How absurd! How dare King Soren do such a thing to us! We have remained neutral during this conflict the whole time."

Björn turned to Anna again as everyone else followed.

Anna returned her attention back to the epistle and continued to read:

Failure to comply with Denmark's law will grant the Southern Isles to break any treaty with any other kingdom that hold such hostage.

And if hostage refuses then they will be imprisoned for life or be executed.

The loud murmuring returned. A dark and vengeful smirk filled Hans as he shook his head in disbelief. But then again this was his father after all. Why should he be surprised.

"Why do they need him? I don't understand that. Are there not twelve of you already?" Asked Elsa with authority.

"He needs all of his sons. He had instructions for all of us and is willing to make a deal with Hans if he accepts." Said Björn.

"I don't make deals with the devil." Retailed Hans.

"Hey! Stop that!" Said Hanna slapping her brothers arm for talking about their father that way. "Björn, please. There has to be something else we can do. Arendelle can't be involved in this!"

"And we won't be involved." Said Anna as she started to walk down to the group. "With all due respect, prince Björn. You have come to our kingdom with this audacious threat. Arendelle has remained neutral and will continue to do so. We will not be blackmailed by other kingdoms such as yourself."

"There is another thing.. you majesty." Said Björn.

"What is it." Ordered Anna.

"Those ten Arendellian soldiers that have been missing.." said Björn as Anna's eyes widened. "They're being held as prisoners with our men.. in Stockholm."

Anna's heart stopped. She could feel the anxiety immediately hit her that she had to take a seat as Elsa quickly grabbed her sister to help her.

"No.. no this can't be." Said Anna as she covered her mouth.

"All ten of them are alive, your majesty. But I don't know for how much longer.. by the way my bother Lars has been behaving... they might not live long. The conditions they are in... are not humane."

Anna grabbed her head with her hands as stress began to overcome her.

Elsa swallowed and took over her sister. "Please. There must be a way we can negotiate. Our ten missing soldiers are young men and they have families here worried for them. Surely theres something king Soren can do."

"We can't, your majesty. The only hope is that Hans returns with me. And he returns today." Said Björn.

A long and painful silence filled the room before it was overcome by murmurs again. This time the council had stepped in and began to argue their case. Anna simply say I'm her throne as she continued to massage her ever increasing headache.

It had turned into a practical argument between all of them. But Hans and Elsa remained quiet. Elsa looked up to see Hans who was staring at the chaos in front of him.

And once again he was the cause of it.

---

Stockholm Sweden

The dungeon doors opened as several guards pushed the men inside with aggression. They walked down the dungeon, passing many empty cells.

It was freezing inside the cell and not one inmate could even light a small fire to keep warm.

"W-where are you taking us." Said a young and helpless young soldier as the prison guards continued to drag them and push them back.

"Inside. Now." Ordered one of the prison guards in his Swedish language as they arrived to the cell.

The young soldiers were hesitant trying to understand what the Swedish prison guard said. It did sound like he ordered them inside.

But they but were given no choice, because soon thereafter the guards started to pushed the young soldiers inside the cold cell.

They were ten of them and each one wore the same uniform with green color coating and the crest of crocus. It was clear that they were Arendellian soldiers.

The Swedish guards locked the cell behind them and were about to leave when several of them jump forward and began to yell. "P-please! Don't leave us in here! We're Arendellian soldiers we have nothing to do with Sweden or the Southern Isles!"

"Let us out!" Exclaimed another soldier as they all soon joined him in panic.

Suddenly the large doors were unlocked again as the winter breeze and white snow appeared before the doors were shut again.

Slow and chilling steps echoed the dungeons and some of the Arendellian soldiers slowly backed away as the steps grew louder and louder.

A man stepped into the lantern light which the guard was holding. He wore a Swedish royal uniform with the Swedish colors of yellow and coat made of fine material showing the Stockholm royal crest with the large crown surrounded by three other crows much like the guards had on their shields.

"I'm sorry but I cannot allow that." Said the man in a firm but gentle voice before he finally raised his head to show his face.

The Arendellians soldiers eyes widened.

His hair was brown and combed to the side. His skin was fair with rosy cheeks from the cold. He was tall and thin but with obvious strong physique. And he wore round glasses with strong jawbones.

You're... you're Prince Lars Westergaard.. Son of King Soren.." Said the Arendellian soldier who still had his hands on the bars and shivered from the cold.

"I am." Nodded Lars calmly and collectively. His hands were folded behind him as he stood tall and confident.

The Arendellian soldiers looked at each other and then back at him. Still unsure why they were here in the first place and yet growing very afraid as they realized a Westergaard of all people put them behind bars.

"W-why are you doing this?" Asked a young soldier as he covered his arms from the cold.

"I have my reasons." Said Lars after a long while as he looked around with his hands still behind him as if he wasn't bothered one bit by the situation.

The Arendellians grew worried as they looked at each other and then back at Lars. Afraid they were going to be executed at any given moment.

Lars finally stared at the young Arendellian soldiers with a emotionless grim.

"Enjoy the company." He finally Said as he turned around to leave and began to walk back to large dungeons doors with several guards following behind him.

The Arendellians were confused and looked behind them to see what he was taking about and if there was someone else in the cell with them.

The lantern lights shined across the cell where there were ten badly injured soldiers also. Except there coats and crest was not that of the Arendelle.

The coat was red and gold and it's crest of a golden roaring lion. They were of the Southern Isles.

The same ten soldiers who were thought to have been killed when king Soren had sent them.

The Arendellian soldiers quickly jumped forward again as they began to plea.

"PLEASE! PLEASE DON'T LEAVE US IN HERE!" The Arendellians begged once again.

Soon thereafter the southern isles soldiers also joined in the plea but they were a lot more demanding and even began to challenge the remaining guards.

"LET US OUT!"

It didn't take long for the guards to attack the soldiers. All of them were getting beaten on or trying to fight for their lives.

But Lars ignored their plea and he began marching back to the castle, and the begging voices faded from his ears as the horrendous winter storm rolled on.