Christmas had arrived in full force as the day of the holiday came. Yet, silence ruled the morning. Few people would be awake at this time since the final preparations were being brought to the finishing touches. Old habits awoke Artyom as he stepped out of the castle in an old Soviet greatcoat and a fur Russian hat with a red star on it. If he couldn't sleep he could always do some manual labor to get himself back to sleep. Martin's blacksmith workshop was out of the question but the stables were a good place to start performing his farrier duties that had been forgotten ever since he broke that strange spell by the Dark Ones.

He opened the doors to see the two horses belonging to Queen Elsa and Princess Anna. Soon the cold winds entered and startled the horses before the soldier closed the entrance and let the warmth build-up. Then he walked over to the horse stalls to see empty bags hanging from their door and so the young prince searched around for some fodder and filled them to the brim. "Don't tell anyone I fed you two."

Alastor walked forward and began to eat before Artyom walked up to the creature and began to pet him on the head. Even though it was the queen's horse, it had become his horse as well given how often he rode the creature around Arendelle. However, it deserved attention after the latest events. The beast was bred to ride royals to their destination not be a war horse that charged head-first into combat. His thoughts on the matter made him feel rather guilty about that particular detail. It was strange that this was how he understood Hunter's thoughts when it came to him.

The stable doors were being scratched from the outside. He could not ignore it as the young man walked over to the entrance and opened a crack to the world. His wolf companion was sitting in the snow, alone, looking up at him. "Hey there! You've survived."

It jumped up from the ground and crashed in his arms; meanwhile, the beast expressed its care by licking him in the face. Time had passed since he last saw the creature and the Polis Ranger was eternally grateful that this hunter of the wild survived ever since he rode into the thick of combat. Strange noises were made from its mouth as if it was expressing joy in his company.

Artyom looked at his watch to see the time reach further to the day. He had several hours left to himself before the castle and the town woke up to celebrate the holidays together. If there was nothing left to do, he could always rest with the straws. Being a survivor of the post-apocalypse wasteland allowed him to get used to being comfortable anywhere for sleep and this place was no different. He looked to his right to find a pile of hay in the corner of the room and it would be a suitable place to get some shut-eye. Soon he grabbed the attention of the wolf to follow as he jumped into the pile and closed his eyes. His companion crawled up beside him and rested its fur beside his tightly warm coat.

It was time to get some sleep.

Two men traveled outside of the town with axes in hand and slogged through the snow under freezing temperatures. Uhlman lead the way while a comfortable papakha was nesting atop his head. Unfortunately, Pavel's only headwear was a tank cap meant for the vehicle crews of the old Soviet army. He was somewhat jealous but it would be wrong to take away the only trace of the Polis Ranger's identity as a Cossack. "I can't believe the woman was that serious to send us out here on Christmas morning to chop down a tree."

"We kinda asked for that," The man answered as he rested the axe on his shoulder and referred to Gerda's punishment in the kitchen, "Sooner or later, we might have pushed the buttons of our hosts. I honestly think this is better than what could have happened. We should count ourselves lucky."

"How so?"

His question was answered as Uhlman's breath continued to huff up the hill. "Well, we could have looted the damn town of its valuables when they let us settle in this place. Having a punishment for getting seconds isn't too bad in comparison."

"Perhaps," The man did have a point. Pavel knew too well about the habits of the post-apocalypse armies. It was a miracle that relations didn't deteriorate into a situation that would involve some form of force. As his feet began to freeze with each step, he thought about the current task that Gerda demanded of them, "So all we need to do is cut up a tree and be done with it?

"Pretty much. The servants said that they marked the tree with a yellow ribbon."

They continued further into the wild as the town and castle by the fjord became smaller any time they looked back. Soon the ground was less uphill than before as the men encountered a shallow running river flowing from the mountain.

"Okay, now we are seriously pushing our luck," Uhlman remarked as he took his first step into the river and slowly made his way across, "Now this is a punishment."

He reluctantly joined him in the crossing as all of the heat in his lower legs began to fade. Pavel began to shake and tried to calm himself so that it wouldn't be that bad. Yet, his mind began to consider whether walking in a river was colder than walking in the snow. "Dear Lenin."

"There's a trading post not far from here. Oaken has a sauna there that we can pass by before we head back to the castle."

"Isn't that place also a listening post as well?" The officer asked, expressing that knowledge from the Order's circles when they visited the Arendellians or met with the other leaders, "Can they afford to help us with the tree?"

The duo continued further uphill that it seemed like they were approaching Queen Elsa's ice palace on the North Mountain. "Probably. It's Christmas and they don't have much to do. Those poor bastards have the misfortune of trying to listen to the radio waves for anything interesting in a world where electricity is a commodity."

"It makes you wonder," He began as his thoughts considered the state of affairs in this world and the future they would be changing by simply barging in. It was quite strange to be in an alternative past where monarchies were as common as the clouds. Once the war was over, Pavel thought about what the future had in store for the people of the Red Line. Would there be a global revolution to change the world? "I wonder how we'll move on by the time we rip Prince Hans a new one."

"There is always something to do. It just depends on where you look for it."

Uhlman stopped as he pointed ahead and grabbed the communist's attention. Pavel looked past the ranger to see a massive tree tower over them but the important part was the yellow ribbon wrapped around the trunk the size of a single person. The question was how they were going to transport it after they finish. "We're going to need more than a couple people to bring this back."

"Let's cut our problem one at a time," He replied before eagerly rushing forward to take his position by the base of the tree. Then he gripped his ax and slowly practice the motions of swinging it against the bark before stealing a glance from his company, "Are you going to stand there? Take your spot on the other side."

"We still need to transport it by the time we finish."

Soon the officer stood on the other side of the tree with his ax ready. Uhlman swung into the wood before pulling the blade out and waited for Pavel to join. "Come now, focus on the cutting."

Pavel swung his ax and landed where his comrade made his mark. When he pulled his tool back, the cutting motions repeated once more. Minutes passed as two men circulated their blood in the middle of winter to bring down a tree that seemed like it would require an entire platoon's worth of soldiers to carry back to the castle. As time passed so did splinters litter the snow as inches of bark was being chopped away by the combined efforts of two men trying not to freeze in the morning. The structural weight made it groan thanks to their axes reaching the center of the tree's diameter.

"We're halfway there," He commented as his swinging pace increased, "We'll take a break afterward."

They continued for a mere moment before the tree was disconnected from the ground, leaving behind a stump. Soon it began to lean and groan before the cossack pushed hard enough to cause a fall. The massive trunk heaved onto the side as the two men stepped aside and watched it fall. Then they turned their eyes away from the impact as the tree came crashing down into the ground and kicked up snow that covered their eyes.

Pavel wiped the snow from his face as he looked to see his handiwork. "Now to bring this damn tree back."

He was caught by complete surprise as the ground shook. The nearby trees began to shake the snow off their branches, further covering the men in white. Soon his eyes looked to the left to see a snow monster approach them with its house-sized form. The axe remained steady out of instinctual fear before the creation of Elsa began to smile. "Marshmallow heard a crash. Did you cut the tree?"

"Yes," The major answered honestly as he lowered his ax. He looked to Uhlman to find him resting with one knee on the ground, "We're bringing a Christmas tree back to the castle."

"Elsa says it's going to be fun. I want to come."

The cossack joined the conversation. "You can if you help us with this tree."

"Really?" It seemed surprised by the question, "You'd let me help you? People don't normally let Marshmallow near them."

"Eh, they haven't spent time with you long enough. Carry the tree, everyone's going to be expecting us and we're not going to disappoint."

Queen Elsa's bedroom had become Artyom's. He did not mind that since he was getting closer to her than before but the young man had his reservations. The room was still her place and he did everything he could to keep it that way, which also meant that he had to limit the space for when he needed to change. His normal apparel was not suitable and his formal wear was being cleaned by the local servants. All he could do was wait while he hid away with just a pair of the Order's finest pants and a blue-striped blouse.

The prince stood by the edge of the window and leaned against the wall. His eyes watched Pavel, Uhlman, and Marshmallow bring in a massive tree within the confines of the castle square. A dozen servants came outside the main entrance to help put fragile ornaments onto the branches. All he could do was smile at the sight of a communist officer helping people for a holiday he would never believe in. Artyom could not judge him too hard since the people of the Red Line were a contentious group when it came to beliefs.

When Elsa knocked on the door and called out his name, his attention was taken away. "Artyom! Are you awake?"

"Yep. Is there any news on my clothes?" He walked over and unlocked the door, only to find the Queen of Arendelle standing outside looking away from the doorway in a dark blue gown and cape. Her head was turned away as if someone else had gotten her attention before looking at what stood before her. The royal's eyes widened as her cheeks blushed red. He wondered why she seemed so speechless. "Elsa?"

"Sorry! Here are your clothes, your stepfather finished drying them."

When she passed the ancient Soviet uniform into his hands the question of her blushing remained. "You seemed surprised to see me in my blouse."

"Well, I am," The queen replied as she stepped into the room and closed the door for their privacy between the two, "It's just that I've never seen a man without his dress shirt on and… I can see why."

"Am I that much of an eye-catcher? I should be the one being surprised since I'm not renowned for being handsome."

She giggled before taking a few steps closer to kiss him on the cheek. "That's the thing, you're handsome even when you're not trying."

"I don't know if you're exaggerating or not but I'll take your word for it," Artyom did not know what to believe as he began to change into his fresh formal clothes. He eagerly switched out his black pants for green khaki trousers before buttoning a clean white shirt around his blouse. Then he tucked it below and locked it away with his belt. His attention then shifted when Elsa brought forth his tie and wrapped it around his neck, adjusting its length before carefully tightening the nose that didn't restrict his breathing. The young man smiled at her assistance before reaching out for his jacket and fastening the buttons across his stomach. Once he was finished, he grabbed his peaked cap and placed it under his left arm to ensure it wouldn't be tangled with the aiguillettes on the right side of his uniform. "How do I look?"

"Perfect. It's been a while since I've last seen you in this. Was my coronation the last time that you showed up in this uniform?"

He nodded his head in confirmation as he slipped his socks on before snatching the large black boots to finalize his appearance. "Yes. I just never had the opportunity to wear it again since then."

"That will change," She replied before walking outside the door and waiting for him, "My prince, we have a Christmas to celebrate. Sukhoi and your grandfather are waiting in the main hall."

Artyom followed after her as they made their way through the halls and stairways. Everything was different now that he was a prince but part of him didn't want to accept the role that was expected of him. This place was more or less his home and it would be hard for the Polis Ranger to leave the castle behind for some palace in Imperial Russia. Still, there was much to look forward to and his attitude as a post-apocalypse survivor shouldn't diminish the optimism that the future had in store.

They arrived at the main hall, tables of warm meals, cold drinks, and delightful desserts were carefully prepared by the servants. Artyom saw his stepfather in the company of the Russian tsar and the Arendellian royals, conversing among themselves before Sukhoi turned his head to see him walk in with Elsa and smile. "You look good in that uniform. I expected it to be a bit tight but you proved me wrong."

"You're welcome," He placed both of his hands on his shoulders and expressed one long look at him from top to bottom, "It's going to be cold do you want a coat?"

"I'll be fine. It shouldn't be as cold as this morning."

The conversation among the royals slowly ceased as the former ruler of Arendelle approached in his uniform. Yet, he recognized him for his distinct red hair "You probably do not remember me but we have met once."

"We have," Artyom acknowledged as he turned to face Elsa's father. It shouldn't have been imposing but his soul was fearful knowing he would have expectations to meet, "Back then, you were a fisherman and I was a Polis Ranger."

"My wife has told me how much Elsa loved you and I am both fascinated and curious about how you two will get along in the future."

A hint of fear took place in the back of his mind; however, he did his best to maintain the facade of being delighted to meet King Agnarr. "I pray that I don't do anything to disappoint."

"You are Hunter's son. There is nothing for you to prove," He replied as his hands were resting behind his straightened back, "Your father was my friend and I will honor his memory by being yours."

The tsar of Russia approached with a graceful smile trying to maintain a healthy demeanor despite the failures of his age. "My grandson, you are awake. Are you ready to celebrate with her majesty?"

"Yes sir," Artyom answered as he thought about his previous experiences with the holiday, "This would be the first time I've celebrated in Arendelle. What would the kingdom do for everyone to celebrate?"

"If my knowledge is correct, a bell."

Elsa corrected him as the group turned their attention to her. "The Yule Bell to be precise. We ring it and everything begins."

Iduna grabbed everyone's attention. "The Christmas tree is set, everyone. They're going to bring it to Yule Bell. Let's get ready."

"So who is going to ring it?" The queen asked, "Someone has to have the honor."

"It's always the ruler who pulls the rope."

The entourage of royals made their way outside and into the castle square with the Christmas tree in the center. Hundreds of people entered through the main gates as the Yule Bell was being brought by Kristoff, Sven, and Martin. Arendellians, Northuldrans, and Russians alike were present at this moment. All of those who had encountered over his journey between this world and the broken one stood together, regardless of their affiliations and beliefs. For the first time, they were united as one whether by shared bonds of friendship or the bloodshed of war.

Sven pulled the cart with the old bell to the front of the castle entrance where the royals stood before Martin and Kristoff were handed a rope from above. A group of Arendellians eagerly joined the duo as they attached the bell to the rope and pulled. With each haul, their strength allowed the object to rise above the crowd. Anna jumped in excitement as it was placed carefully into position. Then someone dropped the bell rope and Artyom looked above to see someone give him the thumbs up.

Queen Elsa reached for the rope as the crowd's excitement seemed to be held back. "Ladies and gentlemen, let the holiday begin!"

A single pull was all it took as the Yule Bell rang out and commenced the celebration. Many cheered but a post-apocalypse survivor stepped out from the crowd and approached Artyom. Pavel took off his tank cap and spoke, "Chuvak, I heard that you liked to sing on Christmas."

"Wait, you can sing?" The ruler of Arendelle wondered as she turned to a surprised young man, "Why didn't you say?"

Artyom was embarrassed by the attention he was receiving. He did not know what to do; however, he wondered how the communist knew about his holiday tradition. "Where did you learn that?"

"Your friends and neighbors from your station," The major answered as he looked back to the crowd. A group of post-apocalypse survivors was assembling into organized ranks despite their differences in uniforms, "Join us, all the people you led in the Caspian to Novosibirsk want to form a military choir."

"Next time, I'll run a background check on you."

He laughed as he walked over and patted him on the back. "I'd like to see you try. Let's go before I freeze my balls off."

Letters and newspapers from abroad had informed the young man about the whereabouts of his family. Prince Hans was in his father's office dealing with the daily affairs of the state while his father was out in Paris trying to cozy up to various diplomats and ears of foreign rulers. News of his war would reach him due to the scale and magnitude of the fighting. What was worse was the inability to replenish losses after his departure from Northuldra. His defeat and the departure from his Landsknecht mercenaries had reached the officers on the higher chains of command. He had sent out letters of appeal to send more regiments into his kingdom's service; however, no amount of gold could convince the members of the Imperial Army of the Holy Roman Empire.

Other options were considered to be exhausted but it would be a sign of desperation on his part. Mustering the kingdom's able-bodied men would have reached his father's ears and doing so would earn the ire of the local nobility. His Life Guards were battered and needed time to recover; yet, they wouldn't be able to hold out against the coming storm of the post-apocalypse armies supported by Arendelle and Imperial Russia. To say he was frustrated was an understatement.

A loud commotion was heard outside of the office as the young man looked across his desk. Two doors swung open as the Caspian bandits arrived with their leader. The Baron walked into the room with his cane as two of the prince's bodyguards were tossed to the ground and at the mercy of his guards. His expression was filled with disappointment as he reached the desk and placed his can atop the workspace full of papers. "Princes Hans, you promised me a victory. Where is it?"

"There has been a setback," He replied with a hint of hesitation. His combat experience with the post-apocalypse survivors had made him fearful of the men he referred to as allies. There was little he could do to placate them after his failure, "I am trying to work up another plan to give what you are owed."

"Do not bullshit me, boy. I gave you a chance with my men to take the kingdom and help me in the long run. It's a shame that it's all wasted at this point."

Hans needed his trust once more. "Give me more time. There's still another chance for us to win. It's just that-"

"Excuses!" The old man's cane was slammed against his head. Blood splattered across the papers as a great pain thumped near his mind, "I gave you one of my best lieutenants to guarantee your victory. Saul brought you poison gas to deal with your threats once and for all. Now's lying in the dirt and I have to deal with the consequences. I am currently dealing with a slave rebellion and my neighbors are a bit happy that my numbers have been cut down thanks to you. How did you fuck this up?"

"Magic. Queen Elsa had magic and her allies brought strange war machines that I have never seen before."

The Baron reached across the desk and snatched his collar to him. "You should have thought about that before commencing this little invasion force in the first place."

One of the royal guards who were lying on the ground had spoken up, "Don't you dare touch his highness!"

"Put a bullet in him," He ordered one of his men as he focused his wrath upon the young man. A bandit slammed his foot down on the insolent Life Guardsman and brought his barrel downward on his victim. Soon a gunshot rang violently throughout the room as more blood stained the confines of the kingdom's palace, "Since you couldn't put your end of the bargain, I have no choice but to seek compensation for your clusterfuck."

"What do you want?"

His hand shoved him into the chair on his side of the desk as he gripped his cane with both hands. "Everything. I am going to tear through this fucking kingdom of anything I deemed as valuable and you are going to watch from a dungeon."