An encampment was settled alongside the shore as the Arendellians, Northuldrans, and Russians rested for the night. Fires illuminated the darkness while people huddled around the flickering flames for warmth. Meanwhile, boats came and went from the submarine in the shimmering waters, reminding everyone of the vessel and its crew.

The queen of Arendelle took a spot by one of these campfires and busied herself in the handiwork that was knitting. Honeymaren helped with the materials but it was she who performed the work. They were not alone as the fire spirit sat atop of her shoulder resting its head while the Nokk splashed in the water by the shoreline. Elsa's eyes stole a glance from them every few minutes, reminded of their peculiarities. Her connection with these sentient beings was beginning to take hold of her while she could sense their intentions and desires from her.

A great siren called out to her, forcing the royal to see the fire spirit awakened as if the call demanded their attention. The source of the call still mystified her but once the barrier was broken, she could find out.

Her thoughts were broken the moment her Northuldran friend spoke. "You have a ring around your finger. Are you married?"

Elsa looked at her hand, realizing that it was about the marriage gift.

"It looks beautiful. Who is the man that your heart belongs to?"

The question reminded her of that night when the proposal was made. "A prince. It was a royal who was just like me. We had fallen in love and he recently asked for my hand before I came here."

"Congratulations!" The Northuldran remarked as she surprised the queen with a great hug before letting go, "There is something exciting about being committed to someone you truly love, and yet, it's enough to make you feel scared."

"You have put it in a way that I could never truly express. I should be happy about my betrothal but my heart aches for someone whom I lost."

That seemed to have sparked interest from Honeymaren as the girls stopped knitting. "There was another man in your life that you loved? It seemed important to speak about him despite your heart settled down."

"He was a Russian soldier, a Polis Ranger. When we first met, he had forgotten his memories and was a mere stableboy but one who I had grown accustomed to talking to. Then one day, he remembered and revealed his true identity," The queen's head was raised and saw the moonlight above. Somehow the winds were colder this evening, "If it were not for him, my life would have taken a different path, and perhaps I wouldn't have found Northuldra."

"Did he leave you behind? What changed?"

Elsa recalled the moment when the teleporter closed. "Bandits kidnaped my sister but he and many others fought to rescue her. Just as we left, the gateway between our worlds was severed. I had hoped he would return but his superiors did it was merely grief, Artyom died trying to save my family."

"He probably would not have it than any other way. There is no better death for a Polis Ranger such as that."

"What are you doing there?" The Northuldran wondered before the two turned around to find Uhlman leaning against the tree as the campfire light reflected off his face and his armor, "Is there a reason for that?"

The Polis Ranger had a toothpick in-between his teeth before his fingers pulled it out to properly talk. "It was about my comrade and I came to hear what her majesty wanted to say about him. I just wanted to state that men like us were fated to meet such a death."

"It seems like you treat it like a good thing."

"No, just pointing out the obvious," Soon the soldier stepped forward and squatted over his feet, "It is what was expected of him when he was inducted into our Order. That is the unfortunate reality our members must face. Even he knew that. It still doesn't change the fact that the loss of my comrade doesn't make me feel better. Though, I have a feeling he might not be truly dead."

Elsa's eyes lit up and took one good look at the Ranger. "You still have hope he's still alive even though Colonel Mel'nikov said they were dead men."

"He says that based on what he knows about the situation in the Caspian, ma'am. Fortunately, there might be a hint that perhaps he's alive."

"Do not give me false hope," Replied the queen as she shifted her body towards him, "I have drunk and cried enough. My heart does not need to suffer through any more grief."

Uhlman brushed the first signs of his beard with his hand but expressed a faint smile. "Believe me when I say this but I am just as skeptical about that thought; however, it wouldn't be out of place for me to say it's not the first time Artyom has proved me wrong."

It seemed so tempting to believe in his words. Elsa's desire for that friend she so dearly cherished to return home and run into her arms. What she wouldn't do for that moment but she needed to be clear-headed about the present lest the grievances of the past take over just like her grief with her parents.

"The Spartan Order uses a certain frequency for long-range communications. No one uses it except us but even if someone was able to decipher a transmission, we would have a code that only our people know. When I was back in Vladivostok, I heard this, just briefly. The only thing stopping us was the interference."

His reasoning had some merit and the queen enjoyed the possibility of that reality. Unfortunately, there were pressing matters to concern herself with but she would entertain the thought one more time with her other companion. "I don't know, what do you think, Honeymaren?"

"I honestly don't know what he's talking about," The Northulrdan answered as she leaned down on the ground, "You foreigners are weird sometimes. Perhaps too weird for me."

"Maybe I'm too hopeful about that?"

The radio on the Ranger was filled with a voice of a man trembling in fear. "Uhlman! Uhlman!"

Elsa and Honeymaren looked at him to find out what was the cause of the commotion.

"Goddamn it, answer the fucking call."

Soon the soldier reached the small black box on his shoulder and activated the button to reply. "Yeah, why are you yelling?"

"There's something massive coming this way," The man answered, "Ask the Northuldrans what it is?"

"Honeymaren?"

The local girl turned her full attention to him. "Yes, what's wrong?"

"Do you know anything about a massive creature that stalks these woods?" Uhlman asked with worry, "Something got the perimeter guard spooked."

"Ask him about the appearance."

He looked back to the radio and spoke. "What does it look like?"

"Imagine a walking mountain. Why the fuck does it matter?"

"It's a stone giant. We need to warn the others."

Elsa stole a glance from her and saw a hint of horror in her eyes. She stood up and started running towards the rest of the camp."

"Everyone, hide! Put out the lights! A stone giant is coming."

The encampment was forced to act as the campfires were extinguished with buckets of water and the collection of people gathered their family and friends to safety. Much to the queen's surprise was the cooperation with the Arendellians and the Northuldrans. As she rose, Uhlman was quick to copy the same act like the others while the royal fled to a large tree on her right. Its height overtook her as the shadow nearly blended her dress in the darkness.

Minutes passed as the last of the clean-up barely left no trace, save for the makeshift tents planted in the ground. Then the ground shook, frightening the girl in her place. Whatever it was, each step thundered like waves splashing against the rocks. Why was she thinking about that?

Another step shook the ground before the queen felt like she was sent to a strange location. The siren of the forest called out to her but why now of all times? When she blinked, her mind succumbed to the peculiar power that affected her.

Shoes pressed against the sands as Elsa found herself standing before a dark shoreline. Massive waves rose from the seas and approached her with unrelenting fury, only to subside into the beach or crash into the nearby rocks. Yet, not a single drop of water landed on her skin. It would be an intimidating sight for her but a whisper at the back of her mind encouraged her to step forward.

Why? What reason would she have to step into the water?

The queen turned away from the scene and attempted to explore around; however, an eldritch horror stood in front of her. A Dark One looked down at her with its alien eyes staring into her soul as if it was hinting at the message she had heard earlier. She could feel its thoughts and emotions but so did the creature. It spoke of a truth that she must embrace thanks to her powers; however, this parody of a human hinted at the magical barrier.

Was it trying to tell her that was where she needed to go? It nodded wholeheartedly with joy in her understanding of its message. The creature felt grateful that her kind managed to take in the message instead of lashing out in absolute terror. Nonetheless, it was an answer to a problem that she thought was impossible.

In a blink of an eye and the girl's mind returned to the reality she recognized. This time, she regained consciousness but stood out in the open. Before the young woman had a chance to seek shelter, her shoulders felt a strange unsettling feeling that someone was watching her. What was wrong with her?

The ground shook once again; however, the queen of Arendelle felt that the shockwave was closer than ever. Elsa looked around to find this mountain standing in her way but everything changed when it moved its head towards her. She became speechless at the sight of such a creature; yet, terrified beyond belief. All it would take to end her existence was another step from the stone giant.

What truly surprised her was the curious gaze - like a child seeing an insect for the first time. The girl reached for one of her gloves, prepared to rip it off her hand in case this would be her final fight. Then it knelt to gain a closer look as if it was judging her for what she was. Soon the siren called out to her but it also managed to grab its attention as well. A thought came to her as she whispered out to the creature. "Do you know the way?"

It nodded its head, inspiring a hint of hope that she would break the barrier between Arendelle and Northuldra.

A pair of footsteps ran up to her from behind before a strange red laser was aimed at the stone giant. "Your majesty, get away from it! My comrades and I will distract it."

"No, wait!" She yelled out and turned towards Uhlman standing before her with his assault rifle ready to fire, "It might lead me to someplace important. I need to follow him to break the barrier."

"Are you sure?"

Elsa nodded her head to affirm her decision. "Yes."

She thought about the vessel that Uhlman and the other post-apocalypse survivors came on and an idea popped into her head. One that may allow a message to be sent to the base camp on the other side.

"I have a request for you. Can you use your ship to bypass the barrier? My family is worried on the other side. It would give them some comfort if you told them I'm safe."

He lowered his weapon while staring at the creature past her. "Convincing Captain Baranov and Tom for their ship will be difficult but I'll try. What about you? You'll be at that thing's mercy."

The spirits of the forest began to reveal themselves from the darkness of the night. Gale identified itself through the gust of wind, carrying the fire spirit in the air before tossing the lizard into her hands. Then the water spirit materialized out of the darkness and brushed past the Polis Ranger. She chuckled at the question, knowing full well how much she was in good hands.

"I'll take your word for it. Good hunting, your majesty."

The Queen of Arendelle turned towards the kneeling stone giant as it placed its hands on the ground revealing the palm of its hand. The Nokk trotted forward and took its spot before Elsa joined the creature with the rest of her supernatural friends. It was an exciting moment for her as she was elevated off the ground and in the safety of this big friendly giant.

The hallways were busier than usual with rumors about military assets and personnel being allocated to Arendelle. Nothing about it was normal as Artyom traversed through the various OSKOM checkpoints with his wolf walking at his side. His men had been assembled in the teleportation chamber and they were all waiting for him.

He turned around the corner to see the entrance into the very room where his comrades resided; however, General Vinogradov was standing in the hallway and watching his men walk past him. Those who could afford the moment had saluted him for his presence as the young man approached him with a thought on his mind about the goings of the increased activity. "General, what's going on?"

"Artyom," The general turned his head as he slipped his hands into his pockets, "You're lucky I was able to schedule your people in. Colonel Mel'nikov will brief you on the situation once you get to the other side."

"Not going to tell me right now?"

He shook his head. "Unfortunately, no. I've got quartermasters and officers to attend to. Good luck."

Nothing needed to be said as the Polis Ranger pressed forward towards the door that was guarded by two heavily armored men. They stole a glance from each other and began to open the heavy door for him before allowing the wild creature and the stalker through.

When he entered the room, those souls encountered and commanded during his travels from the Caspian to Novosibirsk were present. Every able-bodied man who fought for him was present, from the loners with old rifles to the well-armed troops of the Metro factions. Their eyes turned on him once more, looking to him for his leadership.

Roman approached him with a smile on his face as Pavel stood near the teleporter. Then the loudspeakers acknowledged their departure time like a train about to leave with its passengers. "The teleporter will be active in three… two… one…"

A portal ripped through reality itself as the inexperienced men were taken aback by the moment while the others smiled at their bewilderment. It was a moment that Artyom appreciated after being so used to the travel between worlds. Finally, he was coming to a place worthy of being called home.

He was the first to walk towards the opening as the others followed him. When the soldier passed through, he returned to the motor pool where he first departed from Arendelle to save Princess Anna. What truly surprised him was the assortment of weapons, equipment, and vehicles being inspected. More strange sights followed with a contingent of Polis Rangers gathered together on the opposite side of the room, past the armada of armored fighting vehicles that seemed to be brought back into pristine condition.

Artyom approached the group as his men followed him. He stole glances from the maintenance crews, who paused in their work, taken aback by this sudden influx of soldiers. Yet, he paid them no attention as the Polis Ranger heard the commander of the Spartan Order talk to the gathered men. As he walked closer, the colonel's back was facing him while he addressed a majority of the Rangers standing in front of him. "Comrades, the factions of the Moscow Metro will have divisions arriving at this motor pool. You will all be in charge of their numbers and use them to the best of your ability. Set up positions around the castle as we'll be expecting a full-scale naval assault on the fjord to try and capture the capital."

"Is that who I think it is?" Wondered one of the men, "Colonel, behind you."

"This better not be a fucking prank. Take this seriously."

Mel'nikov turned around but his face turned pale when his eyes met with the young man. One could say that he had seen a ghost; however, Artyom could not blame his superior for reacting in such a manner. Seldom did the soldiers of the Order survive their encounter with death himself. Nonetheless, he took the time to smile and greet the commander with a salute and the snapping of his boots. "Sir, reporting for duty."

"I thought you were dead," The colonel began before looking past him, "I recognize that some of the guys behind you are from the expedition we had earlier but who are the others."

"They're people I picked up along the way before we arrived at Novosibirsk by train."

It was an emotional moment for him as the commanding officer stepped forward and gave him one massive hug. "Good to have you back. You've come into a dire situation."

"How bad are we talking about, sir?" He wondered before seeing his superior's expression grimace at trying to scrounge up the words to speak, "Don't hold back on the assessment."

"We are at war with Prince Hans. Right now, he's preparing an army in his homeland made up of German mercenaries from the Holy Roman Empire and the Caspian bandits who kidnapped Princess Anna."

The mention of the prince's name almost made his blood boil but there will be a time to deal with his treachery. "I knew there was something off about that man when he smiled while the portal closed. Unfortunately, there was nothing I can do about it from my end."

"It's fine. Right now we're making preparations for the invasion of Arendelle. We're shoring up the defensive works and trying to coordinate with the locals but there is so much we can do without Queen Elsa's assistance."

"Where is she now? I was going to see her as soon as I got back."

Colonel Mel'nikov crossed his arms while everyone in the room watched him. "She's on an expedition to the North, heading to a place called Northuldra. Some kind of magical barrier separated her from the expedition. We don't know what's going on up there and I need my full attention here."

"No worries," He assured him as his hands rested on his assault rifle, "I'll head North and find her majesty."

"Good. We just fixed up some trucks so we'll ferry you and your men up there as far as we can."

He had been hesitant on his voyage back home but it was necessary now that the facade of his relationship with the queen had been broken. Prince Hans was fortunate that his family had been away in mainland Europe on vacation. Sure, his fathers and brothers excluded him from their enjoyment by forcing him to maintain the kingdom at home. However, it also meant that he had the power to make decisions while they were away, including the Southern Kingdom's treasury and its military. If he succeeds in this political machination for the Arendellian throne, perhaps his father's opinion would finally change.

Stepping off the boat was an experience in itself as the dockworkers were bringing out crates from the warehouses to be placed on the anchored man-of-war ships. Yet, they were not the only ones present as the sights of the Baron's finest formed small squads around campfires, smoking like an orientalist. Then there were the disciplined regiments of German mercenaries from the Holy Roman Empire, who were willing to fight for the coin they may not see in the future. After all, it would be a bloody affair in Arendelle when he would return as a conqueror.

He traversed his way from the docks to his family castle as the passing citizenry were quick to show their respect before continuing in their lives. His position as royalty was the only social rank they truly respected as they shared their sentiments with his family. What also did not help was his brothers playing cruel jokes on him by passing ill-conceived slights against him behind his back to help suppress his relationship with the common folk.

Prince Hans knew they would eat their words when he set forth with his army. He would show them all that he was not the runt of the litter but the one who would leave an ever-lasting impression on the Southern Isles. The throne of Arendelle will wash away all the horrible memories he had to endure in the place he was supposed to call home.

The castle gates opened at the arrival of the royal and his retinue of Landsknects. As he passed through the gates, his kingdom's Life Guard Horse Regiments were present in the courtyard. Cavalrymen were mounted atop of their horses in full uniform and cuirass. They would also accompany him on the journey to solidify his authority in the foreign land. While he walked past them, each soldier drew their swords and saluted him in complete silence before the trumpets blew to honor his return home.

Soon the servants opened the doors for him and permitted him into the entrance hall. On the other side of the room were the bandits who served in his schemes. An old man leaned on his cane, wearing the fresh cotton clothes that had been offered to him during his stay. His wrinkled face spoke much about his age while he was accompanied by heavily armed men with firearms. They were not seen as professional as the Russian soldiers from the other world but these men would have to do.

The man twice his age had spoken in a calm voice. "So you must be Prince Hans of the Southern Isles? We finally meet after all of this time. I am honored to be a guest in your humble home."

"I should be honored, Baron of the Caspian," He countered with his reasonings, "Were it not for you and your men, my plans would not have gotten far as they have been."

"Indeed. Nonetheless, I should thank you. You've given me quite a future for me and my men to settle down. So? Where do we begin?"

Did it have to be right now? He just got here? "We will depart to Arendelle soon. The Rangers and their friends know of our intentions so speed will be our absolute necessity."

"If that is the case, I will delegate one of my lieutenants to assist you in the fighting," The Baron replied as he gestured towards a bald man in a ragged uniform covered in sand and dust, "This is Saul. He is one of my men who first made their incursions into Arendelle but is a reliable man in these troubling times. So how will this invasion begin?"

"It is expected that the fjord into Arendelle will be heavily defended but I have no intentions of landing there. What I intend to do is land north so that we may rally our forces together and use the numbers to overwhelm the Arendellians and the Russians before they could properly defend the coast."

His ally nodded his head. "It sounds all very good and well but we do have a backup plan just in case you encounter serious resistance."

"Such as?" Wondered the prince, "What can you offer me?"

"Poison gas. It is a weapon of war in our world but few ever dared to use it due to the risk of reprisal. However, those days are long gone and the risk is negligible. Should you encounter our foes in the field and they refuse to concede, this will inconvenience them"

Strange that this weapon was being introduced to him at this moment but he paid it no attention. All he could do was smile at the otherworldly tools of war being at his disposal. The sweet taste of victory was at hand all that was needed was the will to perform the act. "Very well. We will bring them with us."

"Pardon my interruption but I must leave for my kingdom," Stated the old man as he turned his back on the prince, "Internal matters demand my attention but I pray for good fortune in the war to come."

The old emperor strolled through the forests surrounding the base camp full of Arendellians and the otherworlders. His assistance with the royals had been limited but he had hoped that they would eventually break that barrier down one way or another but for how long? His body had seen better days and he would have to return to St. Petersburg, disappointed that this would be the end of his family. Somber thoughts about being on his deathbed did little to comfort him, knowing his relatives suitable for the throne would pester him about who he thinks would be a better ruler than their peers.

Off in the distance were the strange sounds of machines that were brought from the strange land that also called itself Russia. They were his people; however, the advancements in both society and technology made them feel distinguishable from those living under his rule. Nonetheless, he would care for them as Princess Marya did marry one of their people.

His body reminded him of his ailing health as his lungs demanded his full attention. Mikhail looked around, only to find a log that rested against the ground. He sat atop as his heart coughed and his hand dug into his pockets for a handkerchief to place over his face. Then it began to become violent as the poor man's throat revulsed in pain. When it stopped, the tsar took one long look at the results with the white cloth covered in splatters of blood.

Was this a sign that death was coming for him?

Footsteps brushed against the grass and crackled the branches lying around. He turned around and found one of the soldiers from the other world. His armor was clad in black and grey as a cloak was wrapped around his body. The stranger's weapon was lowered while slung around the man's shoulder. "Sir, are you okay?"

"I am an old man and my health is catching up to my age," One look at his face made him pause as if a hint of his daughter was present. Yet, he reigned in his hopes, "Just a parched throat."

"Your handkerchief says otherwise."

Mikhail stole a glance from the blood and knew full well he had been caught. "As I said, I am old."

The soldier walked forward and pulled out a canteen, unscrewing the top in his approach.

"There is no need for that. This is just a reminder that my time is coming and it will be close," He looked to the young man, who had taken a seat beside him, "Tell me, what brings you here?"

The liquid container was closed and returned to the man's belt. "I am heading north to look for a friend whom I've grown to love. Even though I should rest from my injuries, my conscious needs to express my feelings once and for all."

"Ah, young love. It is an experience so thrilling to personally enjoy but it can also be a source of trouble. Whoever this person is, I hope good things go in your favor."

"Thank you."

Muffled voices echoed from the black box on his person. "Comrade, the guys have just dismounted with the heavy equipment. We're almost at the base camp."

"Understood," He answered the voice, "I'll meet you there."

The old emperor pointed in the direction of the camp. "It's over there. I hope that helps."

He nodded his head and rose from his seat before gesturing his departure with a silent nod. As the soldier walked away, there was something about this moment that elevated the tsar's mood. Why a conversation with the man felt so euphoric, he knew not but Mikhail appreciated this to heart.

Iduna watched as the tsar's men offered their help to rescue her daughter through brute force. Kegs of gunpowder were concentrated in a single place as the soldiers of Russia's finest regiment quickly backed away from the site. The camp had to be moved further away from the magical barrier because the artillerymen were setting up cannons and howitzers to face such a target. She stood behind the crew as the officer in charge looked over to his men with their lighters ready. "Fire!"

They complied with his order as the former queen covered her ears and witnessed several dozen cannons fire at a single volley. Shot and shell screamed across the way and igniting the gunpowder into a massive fiery explosion. The dirt kicked up into the air as the officer brandished a spyglass to get a closer look. She was curious about the results but as the smoke cleared, he voiced his annoyance.

"Damn it. The fog is still there. We can try again if you wish?"

The woman brought her hands to her side as her hopes were dashed once more by disappointment. This was the third time they had tried this but there was nothing she could do about it. "No need. Third time's the charm they say and it would be insanity to try a fourth time."

"Understood," He replied in his thick Russian accent before he spouted orders to his men, "Collect the guns, we're finished here."

She turned away from the fog and walked through the heart of the camp as both Russian and Arendellians greeted her with a bow or a nod of the head in acknowledgment of her presence. Yet, no amount of smiles or good greetings could match the euphoria of returning to her daughter. It was bad enough that she had to suffer being away from her daughters but losing Elsa was taking its toll on her but she had to try and keep going for her sake.

The flaps of the royal tent were open as her husband sat on a stool and read through the journal that Elsa carried from her close friend. When she entered, Agnarr stole a glance from her and rose from his seat, hugging her with the greatest care in the world. "How was it dear?"

"It didn't work," Iduna added before she let go of her hug on him and found a seat in a wooden chair that was across from her husband, "I have a feeling it will be impossible to get to the other side without having magic with us. None of my potions work and even the mightiest of arms is not enough."

"I know but we've been through worse. Part of me thinks that Elsa needs to deal with whatever exists on the other side."

She raised her head, concerned about Agnarr. He normally was cautious when it came to magic but this was the first he seemed to accept it wholeheartedly. "What make's you think so?"

"Somehow I feel that it has to do with Elsa's powers. Our daughter was born with them and I have been hesitant to let her display them for the fear of her safety. Perhaps this is a punishment for my fears?"

Her head reached out to his and grimaced at that thought. The love of her life didn't deserve to fall into despair concerning their daughter.

"Maybe I'm overthinking it?"

They looked to the entrance of the tent to find Gerda expressing distress. "Majesties, more troops are coming from the other world."

"More?" Iduna asked herself. What can more soldiers do to change their situation? "Are they here to help?"

"Somewhat but they claim that they are survivors of the Caspian expedition."

Agnarr closed the journal in his hands and placed it on top of a chest beside him. Then he began to ask questions about them. "That's odd. I heard from the others that they were presumed dead."

"Yes, sire," The old woman answered before stealing a glance out of the tent, "It's just that I recognize some of the men who were sent there."

Soon the former queen took the lead by rising from her seat and walking toward the entrance. "Let's see what they can do for us. Where are they now?"

"Follow me, your grace."

The two royals followed their servant through the small city of tents littered across the open fields. However, Iduna noticed some of the otherworldly Russians making their way towards the south side of the camp. As they got closer, she noticed a path being created towards her royal tent before they encountered an old friend along the way.

Sukhoi slipped his hands into the pockets of his jacket and remarked on the moment. "Do you know what's going on?"

She shook her head at the situation. "Unfortunately, we have to meet with them. Gerda claims that they are the survivors of the Caspian expedition."

"That cannot be? Is it possible?" The question was directed at himself as he looked in the direction of the commotion, "I have to see."

The Russian was quick on his feet as Iduna gestured for the others to follow after him. Why was he so eager to great these men himself as the Northuldran almost lost him in the sea of people? It was hard to think about it as members of the camp celebrated their arrivals with cries of joy through their battle cries. More men from the Moscow Metro arrived, laughing and smiling at their return.

She was taken aback as Iduna saw her daughter among the crowd, screaming someone's name out. "Pavel!"

Several soldiers provided an opening as the monarchs saw Anna embrace a stranger with open arms. When they hugged, the clean-shaven man lifted her off the ground and spun her around with laughter. "My dear, you have no idea how much I missed seeing you. I surely regret saying those words before we got captured."

"You are forgiven," The princess replied as if the moment almost caused her to burst into tears, "All that matters is you're back and alive."

As her mother, it was time to inquire about this stranger who had charmed her daughter. "Anna, who is this?"

"Mother?! Father?!"

The young woman turned around to find her parents standing over her. She tried to present her relationship with some formality before stealing a glance from this Pavel. "I would like to introduce both of you to Pavel Morozov. We met during Elsa's visit to the Metro and he's a close friend of mine."

"It is nice to meet you," Spoke Agnarr with a hint of surprise in his voice, "What brings you here?"

When it was the Russian's turn to speak he turned towards them before continuing to speak to the princess. "I was accompanying a friend of mine who led us away from the Caspian bandits and over to Novosibirsk"

Then his eyes rolled towards Anna. "When did your parents return?"

"Just after you were cut off from us," The princess answered before bringing up a question of her own, "Speaking of that, if you're here is Artyom alive as well?"

"Yes. He's here. I just saw him with his stepfather."

Iduna paused for a moment and realized that the man who had stolen Elsa's heart was alive. She did not want to admit it but what made him special for her daughter to love so dearly? The royal needed to determine the kind of caliber of that man as Pavel grabbed everyone's attention.

"Come with me, I know where he went."

The party followed this stranger they moved past everyone else. Meanwhile, the former king came to the side of his wife and whispered into his year. "It might not be appropriate but seems our daughters have taken fancy to these foreigners quite well. Here I thought our daughters would have trouble trying to find someone to be with."

"Not the time to make observations, dear," She remarked while reminding herself to keep her voice low enough to avoid their daughter's attention, "We can fret over suitors when we return home."

It was not long when they found Sukhoi alone with another. He and a younger man gave each other a massive hug with a grip so strong that it could tear through the wood. Tears ran down his cheek while he held this man in his arms. The older Russian could barely speak before he expressed his fatherly love. "My boy, I thought we had lost you forever."

"So did I. Just as before, I have returned."

They broke the family embrace before turning towards the Arendellians. Iduna took a good look at the soldier who was brought under her friend's wing. He seemed tired as if deprived of sleep from his journey; yet, his heart still had the strength to express a faint smile to those around him. His armor differed from most soldiers of the Metro that Iduna had seen with his chest full of pockets and armor branded by the dangers of man and beast alike. "You must be Artyom."

When the stepfather and his son were noticed, they welcomed them with goodness in their hearts. The young man addressed them so openly. "You are the parents of the girls. I was looking forward to meeting you two ever since I saw your faces. It's just that it wouldn't be under these circumstances."

"What are you talking about?" Asked Agnarr as he approached him with questions, "Did you not want to understand who I am?"

"It's just that I am here to rescue Elsa from her current situation. Did anybody attempt to break through the fog?"

Iduna shook her head. Her disappointments had been stacking up these past weeks. "No. I don't think we can at this point. I already asked for the Imperial Russians to blow up some of their gunpowder to breach it but to no avail."

"Then damn it all," Artyom looked down and released a breath of air, "There has to be a way inside-"

Everything changed when the atmosphere changed. Someone screamed to the top of their lungs as if the camp was under attack. "Dark Ones!"

She did not know what they meant by such an alert but she noticed the otherworldly Russians reach for their weapons as if this was truly a threat to contend with. Was this one of the many monsters that ruled the wastelands in-between the few settlements of human civilizations? Had they managed to get through the portal and followed them here?

"Stand down, stand down! Show me where they are."

It was a surprise to hear the young man command the scene as if he was familiar with such creatures. Many of the Russians guided him in the direction the young man needed to be as the former queen of Arendelle and the others followed after him. The soldier sifted through the sea of men as they reached the edge of the camp and found a dozen tall humanoids in an ominous formation. Matched by their alien nature were the platoons of soldiers aiming at their clad-black skin.

Iduna took one closer look at the creatures to see their dark shades of eyes observing them. Their intentions remained unknown but Artyom stepped in front of the gun line and placed his hand out. "Lower your weapons, they're not here to inflict harm."

"How can you be so sure about that?" Wondered Agnarr as he hesitantly stood beside him, "What reason do these creatures have to be here?"

"They're here to help us. It's not the first time they have come to Arendelle to reveal themselves to humans. If they wanted to attack, we would have never known."

His last question disturbed her as she felt compelled by his logic. It was as if he had encountered these creatures long enough. Then everything changed when Artyom stepped forward with confidence which was a stark contrast to the fear that filled the camp. "What are you doing?"

"I'm going to talk to them," replied the young man as his focus was on the Dark Ones, "Whatever happens, do not attack."

She had no words to describe the moment only that Iduna was surprised when she blinked and the young man had slumped to the ground. The situation was tense as the woman stole a glance from those beside her. Even Pavel's friendly demeanor was replaced with a cold ruthless gaze while his hand reached for his holster. What would Artyom discover?

They had reached the northernmost shore as the stone giant gently placed its hand down on the sandy beaches. Elsa mounted the Nokk as the water spirit walked out of its palm before she looked up at the big friendly giant. "Thank you."

It acknowledged her compliment with a nod of its hand before walking away from the scene. The ground shook but with every step, the thunder echoed faintly in the air before the beating of the dirt as if it was matching her heart. Now that they have arrived at their destination, the queen of Arendelle let out a deep breath as Gale revealed itself and fluttered past the oncoming waves underneath the darkened skies.

"I suppose this is where we need to be?" The Nokk let out a neigh as it trotted into the thunderous sea as its footsteps transitioned from crushing sand into splashing in the water, "Alright, let's go."

The fire spirit crawled over her shoulders and she could feel its paws clench hard onto her skin. Elsa felt that it was trying to latch on and stay with her throughout the journey. Soon the siren called out to them and then spurred the water spirit into action as the trot turned into a gallop. Wave after wave, the queen overcame the dangers of the sea. Yet, it was only the beginning as a massive wave was obstructing their way.

"How are we going to get over that?!"

None of the spirits would reply but then the Nokk hastened its pace and accelerate into the wave. The fire spirit held on to her hair as she grabbed hold of the horse's icy reins and held her breath before her face was smashed against the freezing temperatures. Elsa took a glimpse of the world beneath the surface only for a moment. However, the longer she remained in the water, the harder it was to maintain the air supply.

She was fortunate when they had passed through the wave and escaped the depths of the sea. As the girl took the time to regain air in her lungs, the waters started to calm down and rays of sunlight penetrated through the clouds. Then she saw an island of snow and ice getting closer thanks to the Nokk's speed.

Was this the place she needed to be? The source of all her power? What would she find in this magical place?

When they had reached the island, Elsa dismounted as her high heels met the snow. She grabbed her braided hair and felt annoyed that it had been drenched in water but that was to be expected. What had surprised her was when the fire spirit jumped down to the ground and ignited a fire on its own; however, the flames were not enough to engulf her. The queen had spent a minute drying herself beside the creature as she looked to her left to find an entrance into a dark passageway.

If this place was calling to her, would that mean that this would be the way forward? She looked at the lizard enjoying the moment it had with her before making a request. "Hey, could you light the way? Thanks for drying my hair."

It looked at her with a smile before leaping towards the entrance with gusto as Elsa followed after. As she walked, the Nokk remained in place.

"Are you not coming?"

The water spirit looked at her and shook its head, implying that it would not come with her for the rest of her journey. She left her paranormal companion behind, walking deep into the caverns of frost.

It should have been pitch black darkness before her but that was not the case. When the siren called out to her mind, lights shimmered through the glacial walls as if they were carefully crafted. Soon the flame of the fire spirit flickered out ahead of her and Elsa felt concerned about the creature's wellbeing. She rushed forward while the siren's echoes grew stronger in volume.

The queen turned around the corner and slipped down a slide. She tried to gain a footing but the ice was too slippery for her heels as she awaited what the passage had in store for her. At the bottom was the fire spirit standing on what had appeared to be the edge of the exit but closer inspection made her realize it was leading down into a cliff. "Watch out!"

She cried out hoping it wouldn't lead them to their imminent doom. The lizard jumped high in the air to land atop her head before the royal found herself flying mid-air with an endless black chasm below. Desperation for survival took over as her hand reached out and shot ice out of her palm, creating a pillar from the ground. It grew in height but was quick enough for the young woman to land.

Elsa's heart pumped with adrenaline; however, she wondered if this was some kind of trap for her. What was she searching for? Her question would be answered when her gaze looked around, only to find a small entrance for another passageway deeper into the island. The queen repeated her construction, creating several descending pillars in the entrance. After her fingertips were finished with that detail, she connected them all into a flight of stairs with rails.

The siren's voice felt… close. Lights shimmered within the walls as the queen of Arendelle followed the entrance of another cavern leading into a room. It was strange to see this construction as if it was designed in a masterful way that would fulfill the theme of ice but also be habitable for people in mind. Pillars were on the ground and obstructing her way, causing the magical royal to do with them as she saw fit. Her powers moved these ice pillars to the side; however, she set them upright so that they were set in an orderly ranking as she walked past them.

This cleared the way for her and what remained was a door placed on the other side of the room. The fire spirit leaped into action and ran up towards it, bursting into flames and the room was surprisingly frozen enough not to melt with it. Meanwhile, the siren's frequency was getting faster as the lizard burned away the frozen doors.

Elsa cautiously walked inside but she stole a glance from her companion, only to find him sitting on the ground with his tongue out as the flames were put out. She had to admit it was quite helpful so far and it was time to reward the creature with a flurry of snowflakes falling down on top of it. The lizard eagerly reached its tongue out to taste one while she pressed forward to learn the truth about herself.

The room was pitch black and the queen waited for something to happen. Suddenly, the girl heard the siren call to her as if someone was whispering in her ear. "Show yourself."

Her command did not go unheard as several minutes passed in complete darkness. Then small shards of ice floated in the air, earning her full attention throughout the room. It was as if she was looking at hundreds of stars in the middle of the night but it became surreal that this was now part of her. Then these shards moved with grace and began to form the outline of spirits. Some in the form of the stone giants, another when it came to the Nokk. Soon they began to concentrate in number, forming into four large ones. Each surrounded and spun with the queen at its center.

What was happening?

The clothes of the queen had changed into something different. The vibrant royal dress had transformed into snow-white as pieces of the shards broke off to make her glitter in the light. She looked over her shoulder to find a translucent cape attached from the back. She would need a mirror to take it all in. The siren called out and this time the frozen walls showed glimpses of memories throughout time. Some even went as far as her father's experiences in Northuldra.

Clouds of snow began to fill the room before the atmosphere changed with light shining above. Elsa was speechless with the experience as the snowflakes began to settle. Then she looked around and felt a cold chill on her shoulder before the room was occupied by forms of memories shaped in snow. Most of them were about her memories at the castle with Anna and her family but not all of them were related to her. Others were about how her mother and father had their special moments with each other.

What truly surprised her the most was the memories involving Artyom as it included his as well. She explored the entire room and looked towards the one involving the Russian. Most of it involved combat of some sort but unlike the other memories, the queen could hear the horrors of the Metro come to life as well. One memory had Artyom, Colonel Mel'nikov, and Uhlman fighting in a circle with several other men as mutants surrounded them. Another had the young man trying to avoid the clutches of a strange monster with tentacles.

Why was this place showing Artyom's life as well? She took one more look at another scene but she felt horrible when he was on his knees and his weapon was at his side. Bodies of men and monsters alike were strewn across the ground. The queen heard his sorrow. "I am sorry I have failed you. All of you. We all fought to save but it was not enough."

He paused.

"Why am I cursed with the knowledge that I live while you have died?"

Elsa walked up to this form to get a closer look at his face. She knew he wasn't really there but she saw tears in his eyes, the pain in his heart, and the torture in his soul. He had never spoken of this nightmare but it was a memory that was important enough to be here. A pang of guilt fell over her, knowing that her friend would never be at peace.

Her ears perked up when she heard the voice of her grandfather in the distance. The royal tried not to get bogged down with the other memories but then she saw King Runeard being accompanied by his guards. As she sifted past the others, the queen was able to drown out their voices for theirs as the guard spoke to the former monarch. "Sire, is there a need for the honor guard to be with us? They have no ill will against us."

"Not yet," Her grandfather answered in a firm but cold tone, "The Northuldrans possess magic and that magic will be enough to defy the rule of a king. I cannot tolerate such an obstacle to our colonization of the North."

"Your majesty, this would upset the Soviets who have come here as part of our relations."

The two Arendellians seemed to walk down a set of stairs leading into a different cavern. She quickly followed before Runeard stopped and turned towards his servant. "Let them. Their presence is allowed because I tolerate them enough. If they interfere with my conquest, then let them feel my blade, even if it is that Romanov from another world."

"But sire," He continued, "The major is the last of that royal bloodline."

"They were a royal bloodline, not anymore in their world."

Elsa continued to follow the figures into the next level below but the staircase was cut off by a massive chasm that was perhaps larger than the previous one she had encountered. Yet, the glacial walls painted a rather familiar picture for her as she observed her surroundings. Part of the chasm showed a mirror, revealing the dam that she had seen when she had first arrived. This room entailed a curious feature as she descended from the edge of the stairs and summoned a pile of snow to soften the landing.

Her descent was graceful but there was something odd about this place. For the first time in her life, the queen of Arendelle felt like she was freezing in the middle of winter. Her magical powers never bothered her in such a way until now. When she regained her bearings and stepped out of the snow, numerous frozen trees littered the room.

What was the purpose of this room? What more could this place do for her? She rubbed her elbows before turning around a tree, only to find a form of Prince Hans standing there. What was this place trying to show? There was no time to form her thoughts as the prince encountered a group of warriors with firearms and greatswords. One of the men became curious and spoke. "What does a prince need of us Landsknechts? There are no wars to be had in the Southern Isles? It better be worth our time."

"No worries, captain," Prince Hans answered as he tossed a pouch towards him, "That is pay for a single man and my father's treasury can be enough to field an army."

"Alright then, who do you want to fight?"

The royal smiled as his hands were placed behind his back. "I intend to take the throne of Arendelle by swooning its queen with love and affection but I have a problem. She has befriended an army of soldiers, which would ruin any attempt at a coup. Hence why I am coming to the soldiers of the Reich. Help me take over Arendelle and all of you will be given a handsome reward. Do you accept?"

"Risky move, sir," The mercenary replied before taking a look at his share of gold, "But the risk is the life of the Landsknecht. We accept."

There was nothing she could say or do. The discovery of Prince Hans' betrayal and treachery had begun to kill her. Elsa had grown fond of him and loved the man when she needed someone there for her. To learn that it was nothing except a ploy for her crown made her cry. She thought about that moment when she encountered the ice harvester and he tried to warn her about the prince's machinations. Why didn't she believe in him earlier? Nothing will ever be the same when she returned home.

Elsa tried to move; however, she lost all sensation in her legs. She looked down to see that she was slowly being frozen in place but then she noticed her arms and hands. They began to slow down and tried to break away; however, it was not enough. Her body began to freeze into place at an incredible pace that she barely had time to comprehend how she would be doomed to this fate. The horrifying thought of all was that she would never be able to return to her family from this point on.

Most of her body had been frozen as the last of her soul was near her neck. Suddenly, a voice called out to her, one she didn't have time to register. "Elsa!"

The queen turned her head to the right to find the Nokk descending from the stairs above but someone was mounted on its back and approaching her with great haste. What little light from the room revealed a Polis Ranger wearing a cloak. She could barely see his face as the man dismounted and came to her aid. When he was a few steps away, she recognized him as her mouth became frozen and the man was the last she would see of him.

Artyom reached out for her and the moment his touch had met her skin, every aspect of her body was unfrozen. Due to the strange position of her body, she nearly collapsed on herself as the soldier quickly swept Elsa off her feet and carried the queen in her arms. "I got you. Are you alright?"

"You're alive," A flurry of emotions flowed through her body unable to understand, "How is that possible?"

"It's… It's a long story."

His voice implied that he was having a hard time trying to explain it.

"The Dark Ones told me that you sent Uhlman and the submarine through the fog. I was able to reach them and make our way over to this place."

She began to cry. A moment ago, the world felt like fate was being a cruel mistress but all the queen could do was wrap her hands around his neck and bring him close. Their eyes met for a mere second and the moment demanded action from her. Long had she waited for such an opportunity to be open to her. Not a second later, the queen of Arendelle kissed the Polis Ranger of the Spartan Order.

Khan returned to Northuldra with more knowledge he could possibly want. The Soviet Union's intention for Arendelle was a horrible thought that came into his mind but those days were over. The old crimson authority was no longer around to spread fear into people both foreign and domestic. As he trekked through the forests, he arrived at the edge of the tree line, not far from the base camp.

He had seen the arrival of Artyom and his entourage before the Dark Ones revealed themselves. It was an odd moment indeed as the ancient Mongolian remembered the days when he knew nothing except the Metro. Life was different then but perhaps some good may come out of it after all of this time. Exposure to this world had been rubbing off on the Russians to a positive outcome. Sure, there were rough edges around the spot such as the Fourth Reich but maybe the future will tell otherwise.

The fog separating Arendelle and Northuldra began to move. Khan's hope in Queen Elsa was not misplaced. She still has much to learn but is perhaps adapting to the changes in her life that others would not be so capable. He put his thoughts at ease when a gap opened between the magical barrier opening the two lands together after all of this time. A massive field stood between the camp and the forest the fog once protected.

His business with Northuldra was over. The only quest he needed to complete was the fate of a single man. A bloodline to be saved, a throne to be claimed, and a family to reunite.