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. But what will Hans do when he's forced to reunite with his brothers?

5. Brothers In Arms

Chapter 5:

Brothers In Arms

Stockholm Castle, Sweden

Monday

January 8th, 1844

Lars exhaled heavily as he walked through the castle with obvious stress in his mind. He had just gotten out of the long morning meeting he had with the council.

It was problem after problem and it seemed whatever idea or resolution he planned out it was not enough. He was angry with himself because he knew he was highly intelligent

But figuring out a solution during this horrendous winter while the inflation continued to rise was only weighing him down more and more.

"Papa!" Exclaimed a little girl.

Lars stopped dead in his tracks as he quickly turned around to the familiar voice. His daughter was running to him at full speed with a wide smile on her face and a large book in her arm.

But she accidentally tripped over one foot and came down as she fell on her stomach with the large book escaping her arms and coming down with her.

Uff!

Lars eyes widened before he quickly ran to his daughter to help her up gently.

"Sweetie, are you all right?" He asked tenderly.

"I'm fine." Giggled the adorable girl as she stood on her feet.

"Be careful. Mama already said we can't have you running around the halls." said Lars as he adjusted his daughter dress.

"Look! I got volume three from the library!" Exclaimed his daughter as she held up the study of literary book in front of Lars face.

"Oh. I see.." nodded Lars as he took the book and rose to his feet. "Looks like it's in new condition still too."

"Can we read it together? Pleaaasseee." Pleaded his daughter as Lars smiled at her.

"I thought I'd find you here." Came another voice from a woman who was walking towards them with a tiara on her head as she smiled sweetly at them.

"Darling. I was just about to find you. You look wonderful." Smiled Lars as he pecked a kiss on her cheek.

"Yeah mama you look like and angel!" Exclaimed their daughter as Queen Judith chuckled.

"Well this angel needs you back in your room. We have to try on your new dress that the servants knitted this morning."

"Awww can it wait? Please? I really wanna read volume 3 with father!" Pleaded the little girl.

Judith turned to Lars and gave him a raised eyebrow as he cleared his throat.

"Let's listen to your mother, Linnea. Besides we can read it tonight before bed."

The little girl gasped excitedly. "Promise!?"

"I promise sweetie." Said Lars as he gently pinched her cheek before she ran off with one of the maids who was chasing after her.

Lars watched her disappear with a kind smile.

"She's just like you, Lars." Sighed Judith.

"You think so?" Said Lars.

"Are you kidding? You two are twins." Chuckled Judith as she rubbed her stomach again and inhaled deeply.

"You feeling better?" Asked Lars worrisome.

"Not really.." Breathed in Judith as she tried to not get lightheaded.

"Here we need to lay you down to get some rest. I'll have the servants prepare a tea-"

"Lars, please." Said Judith as Lars stopped. "I'll be fine. Really. You're doing a lot as it is."

"I can do more, Judith. Just tell me and I'll help you. Let me carry you to the room at least."

"I'll be fine, sweetheart. Besides I could use some fresh air." She said as she looked out the window only to see the violent winter storm continue to get worse. "On second thought maybe a nice walk around the castle will do."

"Let me accompany you." Said Lars as he held his arm out for her to take.

"No. I don't want to be a burden of distraction for you, Lars."

"You're never a distraction or burden, Judith." He reassured lovingly.

"Well it seems at the moment I am." Chuckled Judith. "You're going to all these council meetings for me and I'm just over here as sick as a dog-"

"Hey stop that. Come on you're doing fantastic as queen." Said Lars.

"Thanks for the encouraging words." Chucked Judith. "God knows my father wouldn't approve how little I'm doing for Sweden."

"You're doing more than enough, Judith. And I'm right by your side I promise." Said Lars as he grabbed his wife's shoulders. "I made a promise to you the day we married remember?"

"I know." Smiled Judith bitterly.

"I would serve you and Sweden with all my life. Even die doing so of it is necessary." Said Lars. "I promise wel get through this. I'll find a way."

"What about your father.. Lars I'm sure he's angered by how we've cut him off-"

"It was necessary, Judith. All that matters right now is our people okay?"

Judith smiled as she nodded and they touched foreheads.

"Lars?"

"Hmm?"

"There's... something I must tell you.."

"Your highness?" Came the sudden call from one of the Swedish guards as he interrupted what Judith was about to tell Lars.

Lars turned around with a serious face to the guard.

"The council is back from their break. They're meeting again." Said the guard.

"I'll be right there." Said Lars as he quickly turned to his wife. "Get some rest okay? I'll take care of things here."

Judith smiled as Lars kissed the back of her hands before quickly walking towards the guards as he followed him through the hall before they turned the corner.

The queen sighed heavily as she turned back to the window to stare at the viscous and never ending winter storm before she breathed heavily and massaged her sick stomach again.

---

Baltic Sea

The cold water splashed the ships as they continued sail onwards. Three ships sailing through the harsh waters with The Southern Isles being the one to lead way.

Everyone in the ships were huddled into their own groups as they discussed with one another, trying to pass the time as well as try to stay warm.

Hans made his way past his secretive brothers who stared at him and whispered with one another. But Hans paid no attention as he made his way to the end of the ship where Hanna, Cassandra and Björn along with the rest of the shield maidens were huddled.

Björn pulled up a small bucket that he had thrown into the sea. It was tied to a rope he made a tight knot around. Inside the bucket it was full of cold water and inside were several fishes swimming he had caught.

Björn grabbed one and handed it to Hans which he took and leaned back at the end of the ship.

"Thank you." Smirked Hans as he grabbed the live fish and took a bite out of the back of its head. Killing it quickly while he chewed on the meat raw.

"What are you smirking about?" Asked Cassandra with furrowed brows as they watched eat the meat with a grin on his face.

"Nothing. Just thinking." Replied Hans as he took another bite of the raw fish.

"I don't believe that for a second. Come on. You feeling thrilled being able to sail through the waters again? Must remind you of your days in the navy." Said Björn.

"Well yes. I must admit that it is nice but that's not what is it is." Said Hans.

"Well what is it then?" Pressed Björn.

"Just something father mentioned back in the Southern Isles." Said Hans.

"What did Father mention to you." Said Hanna who leaned forward on the ship as she continued to look out to the splashing sea.

"When we were in the meeting he mentioned that inflation is rising every day in Scandinavia and that our kingdom is the one being affected the most of all other kingdoms." Said Hans.

"Yeah.. and?" Asked Björn with a raised brow.

"It's not true." Said Hans as he took another bite of the raw fish.

Hanna's brows furrowed as she turned to look at her brother. "What do you mean it's not true."

"When I was in the room Björn had given me a spare key to sneak out and go where I please. I took the chance to sneak into the library and did my research." Said Hans.

"Whoa hold on.. you snuck out?" Asked Hanna as she walked towards her brothers.

"What did you find?" Asked Cassandra quickly, ignoring Hanna's confused question.

"I looked over the numbers. Denmark's inflation isn't as bad as it seems out to be. I mean its the worst it's ever been sure, but it's almost as if it's being drained from the inside." Said Hans.

"Are you suggesting that father has people working against him in his circle?" Said Björn with furrowed brows.

"I ran the numbers myself." Said Hans with a shrug as he took another bite.

"That's not possible. Father would know immediately, he has so many connections." Said Hanna.

"Had." Said Hans. "He had connections but many kingdoms are aligning with Lars. My theory is father knows he's being betrayed and it's not just by Lars."

"Then why is he sending us to Lars if he isn't the problem?" Asked Cassandra.

"I'm not saying Lars isn't the problem. He is. Lars wouldn't attack Denmark unless it was for a reason. What I'm saying is that father is being cautious of something else." Said Hans as they paid attention to him.

"Or someone.." he added as he looked back out to the cold sea.

Kaleb was in the middle of the ship as he spoke with its captain and several sailors surrounding him. They were looking down at a large map and studying the course as they spoke with one another.

"Right now we can't seem to find the correct path, Prince Kaleb. We have a good guess but we can't guarantee it'll take us directly where you want it to go." Said the captain who was surrounded with sailors.

"You can't take us to the shore? How hard can it be. We've already been sailing far beyond what we anticipated." Said Franz.

"The weather is being unfair to our sails. The cold winds are too unpredictable. We can follow the path but we can't guarantee it'll arrive at the beach." Said the captain.

"Which is unfortunate because that is the place where it's not as heavily guarded." Added the sailor.

Kaleb sighed frustratedly before he turned around to the end of the ship where the rest of his siblings were.

"Hans." He called out as he signaled him over. "Come."

Hans sighed as he smirked devilishly and he stood up. He took one final bite of the almost cleaned fish meat and then threw it back into the sea before he walked towards his brothers with the Hanna, Björn and Cassandra following behind.

"Captain blank says we're going to end up drifting elsewhere if we keep sailing forward." Said Kaleb.

"Well he's right. The current is not being obedient to nature so you can't steer the ship how you'd usually want it." Said Hans as he crossed his arms.

"So what do you suggest then?" Said Kaleb.

"Turn the ship around." He said.

They all looked at him with furrowed brows. Even the sailors and the captain looked at him with furrowed brows. Confused as to why he would suggest such a thing.

"What? I'm being serious. Turn the ships around and you'll be able to navigate closer to your destination." Said Hans.

"How is that even possible? If we turns the ships back it's only going to direct us back to where he came from." Argued Ivar with a glare.

"Or the current will turn you the correct path you should be sailing." Said Hans as Kaleb rolled his eyes and shook his head while the rest of his brothers murmured. "Look I've done it before. The condition of this weather will only get worse, this is the only logical option left."

"Since when are you logical." Said Erik as a couple of his brothers chuckled.

"And what if it doesn't work. What if we don't find land. A dangerous move like the one your suggesting could get us lost at sea forever." Said the captain.

"I know the seas. Trust me it'll work. But if you don't believe me release the ravens on the south side of the ship. You'll see they won't return." Said Hans.

Kaleb sighed frustratedly again. He couldn't trust Hans about anything. "Release the ravens." He finally said.

"RELEASE THE RAVENS!" Exclaimed the sailors to the other two ships who were following behind.

The ships all did as they were told as a couple of soldiers came forward with two baskets holding two ravens captive. They walked towards the south side of the ship and released them as they were instructed.

"What's going on?" Asked Kristoff as he approached Damien who was conversing with one of the Arendellian captains.

"They're releasing the ravens to see if there's land nearby." Said Damien turning to Kristoff.

"Wait hold on. We're lost?" Said Kristoff with widened eyes.

"It seems that way.." said Damien as he sighed heavily while Kristoff shook his head in disbelief.

Perished at sea.. of course. He thought to himself as they all watched as the ravens flew into the fog.

"If they don't return it's because they've found land. But if they return.." said Kaleb as he turned to face his youngest brother. "Than the only one getting lost at sea will be you."

Hans smirked as he watched him leave with a couple of his brothers following behind.

"Let's hope your right, brother." Said Björn as he stood next to Hans.

An hour passed by and everyone began to become impatient and anxious. The ravens had not returned but the sea seemed endless. They should have been back by now.

Then suddenly the sound of birds could be heard at last. All the passengers aboard the ship grunted and whispered negatively to themselves. Hans plans hadn't worked and now they were even more lost at sea.

"It didn't work.. they've returned." Sighed Kristoff heavily as he hung his head low in disappointment.

"I knew this would happen." Murmured Jørgen to Kaleb who was glaring out to the sea. "You should have never allowed him to even enter our ship. Now he's doomed us all-"

But then suddenly the sound of the birds grew louder. Everyone could hear the noise growing louder by the second. They all peeked out to see what it may be.

Erik stood up as his brows furrowed as the sudden fog began to drift away. That's when he saw it.

"SEAGULLS!" He exclaimed.

Everyone immediately turned and ran to where Erik was looking and there they saw the seagulls above the beach.

Everyone exclaimed in joy, even Kaleb exclaimed happily as they all cheered with one another.

Hans however stood still as he continued to look out to the approaching beach from the front of the ship with his eyes fixed at the approaching land and his mind focused.

"You did it brother!" Exclaimed Björn as he patted Hans on his shoulder causing Hans to smirk.

---

Arendellian Ship, The North Sea, Near The Southern Isles

As the Arendellian ship sailed away from the great kingdom of The Southern Isles, Elsa and Anna watched as the massive and legendary kingdom faded into the distance with its king who saw them off from the ports.

"Elsa?" Asked Anna suddenly.

"Yeah?"

"What're we going to say to our people when we get back? And how're they going to react to the news?"

Elsa sighed. "I don't know, Anna. I'm not the one who agreed to go to war."

"I did what I had to do." Anna retorted.

"Yeah, I know you did." Said Elsa.

Anna sighed this time. "I'm worried, though."

Elsa turned her head to look at Anna. "About what?"

"That our people may turn on me. And that they might see me as a tyrant."

Elsa's eyes widened. "Anna, you are not a tyrant."

"I doubt every single one of our people will see it that way."

"I mean, yes, there might be a few who disagree with your decision, but not enough that our people will turn on you." Elsa stated.

Anna sighed.

"Do you think Kristoff-" Elsa started after a moment.

"I don't want to talk about Kristoff." Anna replied firmly.

Elsa sighed. She hated seeing her sister so resentful towards the man she had loved so much. She knew deep down inside she still did.

"You still have Hans' pendant?" Anna asked.

Elsa furrowed her eyes. "Yes, why?

"Can I see it?"

Before Elsa could answer, someone else walked up to them. They were surprised to see who it was.

"Maren?"

Honeymaren had been feeling conflicted about what Bjorn had said to her before he departed with the rest of the force. She swallowed her pride and spoke.

"How can my people and I help Arendelle?" She asked with seriousness.

Anna's eyes widened even more at what Honeymaren said. Her emotions overtook her and she hugged the Northuldra warrior tightly.

---

Helsingborg, Sweden

Each ship perfectly aligned next to each other as they dropped the anchor and stopped in the cold beach sand.

They jumped of the ships and started walking towards the shore where Kaleb was already awaiting to give orders with his brothers.

"We're going to separate into two parties. Franz and I will lead the first party heading west into the forest. My brother Björn along with liutenant damien Mattias and the rest of the Arendellians will lead the party heading east." Said Kaleb.

Everyone turned to look at each other as they studied their assigned party. Hans however stayed still and quiet as he listened to Kaleb with boreness.

"Our main objective is to make it to Gotenborg before nightfall. Lars is expected to be sending more men towards Denmark and we believe they're going to use that very route.

It doesn't matter who gets to Gotenborg first. The only thing that matters is staying out of sight and before nightfall. Now on your feet let's go! We have a long walk ahead of us."

"On your feet! Double time!" Exclaimed Franz as all the Arendellian and Southern Isles soldiers did as they were told as they started aligning themselves to each of their own party.

Kaleb walked up to Björn Hans and Hanna as he adjusted the warm covered uniform on himself.

"Stay out of sight and from harms way. If you see any suspicious activity send a messenger to us quickly."

"How is that even possible? We won't know where you are." Said Hanna.

"He's going to be beside the border of the beach the whole time." Said Hans suddenly as they turned to look at him. "Typical move so he can run away easier incase threat arrives-"

"I don't run away, brother. You do." Hissed Kaleb angrily. "I run to them."

The two stared at each other intensely but Hans never felt threatened. His relaxed composure and unimpressed face gestures always brought annoyance to Kaleb.

"Come on. Let's get going then all right? We're wasting time as it is." Said Björn as he stepped in the middle of the two of them.

"Stay out of sight." Said Kaleb to all his siblings before he walked off again to his party and his brothers who were waiting for him.

"Stay out of sight." Mimicked Hanna childishly with her annoyed face gestures as Cassandra chuckled.

"Come on, don't let him get in your head." Smirked Björn as he began to turned to address the party. "You've all heard my brother. Stay close and if you come across something or someone mysterious report it immediately."

"Yes captain." Replied the party.

"Lieutenant Mattias are your men ready?" Asked Björn.

"We are captain. We'll follow-." Said Damien as his eyes slowly drifted to Hanna who walked to stand next to her brother. "Ahem, we'll follow your lead."

Damien had to quickly clear his throat. For some reason the Princess distracted him for a bit.

"Let's move out then." Said Björn as they all began to march forward into the snowy forest.

The air was cold of course but the constant hiking and movement helped their bodies stay a tad warmer. Some were even jogging in place to make sure they're bodies heated up.

Small conversations emerged in the group during the long hike. Even Hans was participating in a debate with Hanna.

"Wrrooonnnggg." Proclaimed Hanna.

"Oh for Christ's sakes Hanna. You can't reload a musket faster than thirty seconds Hanna. It's just not possible!" Said Björn.

Hans was a little towards the front of the group as he slightly smirked at his siblings silly debate.

"Yes you can. I've done it before. Even Cass can tell you right?" Said Hanna turning to Cassandra and patting her arm.

"It's true. I've seen her do it with my own eyes." Shrugged Cassandra as her pet owl flew overhead of them as it too scouted for anyone near them.

"We have as well." Said Lagertha as the rest of her shield maidens agreed in union.

"I've been firing muskets since I could talk, Hanna. Trust me there's no way-"

"All right then. Give me your Musket." Ordered Hanna as she stuck her hand out.

"I'm not giving you my musket!" Retaliated Björn.

"Why?"

"Because.. I don't want your fingerprints on them." Muttered Björn with pettiness.

Hanna gasped as Hans chuckled to himself.

"I'm the cleanest one in our whole family. If anything if be doing you a favor by holding your damn musket." Said Hanna.

"That's debatable." Added Hans as he suddenly stopped and held his hand up, signaling everyone behind him to stop.

"What is it?" Whispered Björn as he approached Hans side.

"Shh." Whispered Hans back as they heard rustling in the snowy bushes.

Everyone in the party raised their muskets just slightly to point it at the direction where Hans stood.

Krristoffs eyes widened when he realized this could be it. His first ever battle. Then suddenly it jumped out.

It was a reindeer as it shook the twigs and snow off it's head as it stared at the party blankly before it sprinted off.

"Lower your weapons. It's just a reindeer." Said Björn as they watched the reindeer disappear into the snowy mist.

Kristoff swallowed nervously, relieved it wasn't Swedes. Then he sighed as it made him remember Sven. He wasn't even able to say goodbye to him and he suddenly felt guilty of it.

"Should we go after it? I'm getting kind of hungry now." Said Hanna.

"Hanna you're always hungry." Sassed Cassandra back.

"I'm a tall girl what do you expect?" Said Hanna. "Besides reindeer meat isn't that bad. It's just a little chewy."

"Just let it be. We wouldn't want to upset some people." Said Hans muttering that last part under his breath.

But Kristoff was quick to catch that sarcastic declare at the end as his brows furrowed.

"What do you mean by some people." Said Kristoff suddenly as some turned to look at Kristoff and then back at Hans.

"Oh you know the usual. Ice harvesters, reindeer lovers, fiancés of the Arendellian queen." Shrugged Hans sarcastically.

"Hans be nice." Smirked Hanna as she slapped her brothers arm as Björn chuckled.

"What? I'm simply making an observation. Is that a crime?" Said Hans.

Kristoff frowned.

"No of course not. A crime is when you do something stupid and horrible like locking in a dying Princess in the room or almost decapitating a queen and overtaking her kingdom." Said Kristoff as Damien tried to hide his smirk.

Even a few Southern Isles soldiers couldn't help but laugh at Kristoffs fiery clap back as Hans rolled his eyes while he continued leading the way with Björn.

"You would think he'd be grateful I practically parted the path for him to join the royal family of Arendelle but nooo. The mountain man wants to keep being miserable." Said Hans.

"All right that's enough. Both of you. Let's focus back on the journey." Said Damien as the laughing died down from party.

"I agree. We got a long trail ahead of us." Said Björn.

---

Arendelle

As the Arendellian ship arrived back home, a strong winter storm ensnared the kingdom with freezing cold winds. Once the ship was docked, Anna, Elsa, Honeymaren, and Ryder quickly disembarked, escorted by a select few royal guards who had been chosen to stay as a personal escort. As they hurried through the town and towards the castle, there were many people looking at Elsa and Anna very cautiously.

Anna had a hunch as to why. It seemed rumors of her joining the Southern Isles in the war had made it to Arendelle. But thankfully for now, they were only rumors.

Finally they reached the castle and entered where they were greeted my Kai and an excited Olaf.

"Anna! Elsa! You're back! Oh, I can't wait to hear all the-"

"Not now, Olaf." Anna sternly cut him off.

Olaf frowned as Anna walked past him. "But I just-"

"I said not now." Anna replied more firmly. "Kai, I'm calling for an important meeting with the council and the castle staff."

Kai's eyes widened. "Wh-which castle staff, your majesty?"

"All of them." Anna replied.

Kai's eyes widened even more. Immedately after he barked out orders to the nearest staff to spread the word. Once Anna, Honeymaren, Ryder, and the guards that escorted them to the castle had left, Elsa was about to go to join her sister when she heard something.

Sniff...

Elsa furrowed her eyes and turned to where the noise came from and saw Olaf sitting on floor looking sad.

"Olaf, what's wrong?" She asked, kneeling down in front of him.

"Anna's mad at me."

Elsa sighed. "She's not mad at you, Olaf. She's just... under a lot of stress."

"Yeah, well, her stress is taking it's toll on people other than her, too."

"Olaf..."

"I don't even think she's gave me a warm hug since she became queen." Olaf said sadly.

"Oh come on, there's no way that's true."

Olaf sighed heavily. "I'm gonna go see how Sven is doing.."

Elsa's heart ached as she watched the living snowman she had accidentally created walk sadly away toward the stables. She sighed and headed to the throne room.

in the throne room, all the castle staff had gathered as well as the councilmen. Anna was sitting on the the throne as Elsa made her way to stand next to her sister.

"Thank you all for gathering for this announcement. I know you all were hoping for the best news possible, but unfortunately I have both good news and bad news." Anna spoke to the crowd.

The staff and council members murmured worriedly.

"The good news is that our alliance with the Southern Isles will stand as we are getting more provisions from King Soren as per a contract agreed by both him and I." Announced Anna.

A sigh of relief was heard through the throne room as the council members whispered with each other in approval.

"What of the bad news, Queen Anna?" Said a councilman.

Anna pressed her lips and took in a deep breath.

"The bad news is that as part of that contract, I have agreed... to join The Southern Isles in their war against Sweden."

That statement was immediately followed by gasps of horror from the castle staff. The councillors followed up in an uproar.

"Preposterous!"

"Ridiculous!"

"Unacceptable!"

As the councilmen shouted their displeasure at Anna, some of the castle staff had begun panicking. Elsa turned to see Anna rubbing her forehead stressfully, clearly overwhelmed with everything.

And with the way they were reacting even Elsa had enough of it. So she decided to step in.

"That's enough!" Elsa ordered.

The councillors and staff immediately stopped following Elsa's authoritative shout.

"Have you all forgotten who is queen of Arendelle? I stand by my sister and her decision. The reason she signed that contract was so we could secure a future for Arendelle. You may not agree with it at this moment, but soon enough you will see that anything my sister does is for the betterment of Arendelle and it's people. Including all of you!"

The staff and councilmen murmured, but did not dare to talk back to their other queen as she continued to rebuke them.

"Yes, lives may be lost in the war, but if that is the price we must pay to keep our beloved kingdom, our home, from being erased from the map, then pay it we shall!" Elsa declared boldly.

Many of the castle staff members hid their face and they lowered their heads as Elsa finished her closing statements. But many councilmen who had listened in distraught were not at all pleased. But at last they stayed silent as they were ordered.

Anna was grateful for her sister's support. She stood up from the throne and finally gave her own orders.

"Upon the adjourning of this meeting, I want the Arendelle Printing Company to have the front page of their next issue of The Arendelle Guardian announcing our joining of the war. I want them to make sure everyone in Arendelle gets a copy of that paper so they all know the news. Is that understood?"

A mass of "Yes, your majesty." Filled the room.

"General Mattias?" Called out Anna as she looked around the crowd of her people.

"Yes, your majesty? Said Mattias as he stepped forward with his hands behind his back, displaying the badge and ranking of general.

"Queen Elsa and I ask that we meet with you privately to discuss further plans to reinforce The Southern Isles and our men who are already with Lieutenant Damien." Said Anna.

"Of course, your majesty. It shall be done." Said Mattias as he bowed before Anna and Elsa respectfully before stepping back

Anna nodded. "Then this meeting is adjourned."

Once the castle staff and clearly still upset councillors left the throne room, Anna turned to Elsa. "Thanks, sis."

"You're welcome, Anna." Elsa replied with a smile. "We're in this together okay?"

Just then, Honeymaren and Ryder stepped in.

"Sorry to interrupt but Ryder and I are gonna head back to Northuldra and inform Yelena and the rest of our people of the situation. We'll be back as soon as we get an answer from her." Honeymaren explained.

"Thank you, both of you." Anna said as she placed her hand on both of their shoulders.

"Don't thank us yet. Yelena might not approve of this." Ryder warned worriedly.

"We'll do everything we can. We promise." Said Honeymaren.

Anna pressed her lips and nodded as Ryder and Honeymaren walked away and left the throne room.

"Come on, we should head to father's study. General Mattias is waiting for us." Anna said.

"Lead the way." Elsa said.

Elsa followed her sister down the hall and to the study as Anna entered. Elsa was just about to enter as well when something made her stop. She reached into her hooded dress's blouse and pulled out Hans' pendent.

The pendant that he gave her.

Elsa stared at the familiar Pendant for a few moments before she put the pendant around her own neck. She already had her own royal pendant on her neck as well, so Hans' pendant with the Southern Isles' royal crest and lion now sat safely below her own pendant with her family's royal crest.

Then she headed inside the study.

---

Helsingborg, Sweden

They had marched for hours without taking a break. There was no point since the weather was so cold and there was snow everywhere. Constant moving helped the party stay warm and awake without fainting.

Now the night had arrived and Björn and Hans had been in the front the group still as they led the men and Hanna's shield maidens.

Bjorn stopped as he turned around to the group behind them. Many of them were out of breath and some even had chapped lips due to the freezing cold.

The shield maidens stepped aside as they let Hanna walk through and towards her brothers.

"What do you think. Should we rest?" Said Bjorn to his brother and sister.

Hans looked at the party behind them and then back at the remaining forest. There were still endless trees and snow in front of them.

"We've walked more than twenty five miles without stopping or taking breaks. I think we should rest. We're going to need it if we run into Lars tomorrow." Said Hanna.

"What do you think Hans?" Asked Björn to his younger brother who was still staring out to the forest in front of him.

"Kaleb and our brothers are probably thinking the same thing. Besides it's too dark out to keep marching. Just to be safe I'll scope out the area, make sure no one's around." Said Hans.

"I'll go with him." Said Cass volunteering as she stepped forward. Hans turned to look at her with a furrowed brows.

"I never said I would need company." He said.

"Pah. Please. Someone needs to watch over your arse." Said Cass as Hanna chuckled.

"That's fine with me. Fine with you?" Asked Björn to Hanna who nodded.

"Cassandra makes her own decisions. She's free to do as she please and I trust her." Smiled Hanna with crossed arms.

"Start a fire and set up camp then. We won't be long. Should be back in one hour tops." Said Hans as he adjusted the musket on his shoulder.

Björn nodded as he turned to the heavy breathing soldiers and shield maidens.

"All right everyone set up camp. We'll rest here for the night. We'll need five able soldiers and shield maidens to rotate every four hours to stand watch through the night."

"I'll take first watch." Volunteered Gundrith the tallest and strongest of the shield maidens.

A few others volunteered following her but none of the Arendellian soldiers had volunteered yet. Damien didn't expect them too. After all a lot of them were still new and in training.

Damien was raising his hand to volunteer but Kristoff raised his hand first.

Björn nodded as he wrote the list of names of people who were going to stand watch on his small notebook.

"Full name?" He said.

"Kristoff Bjornman captain." He replied with seriousness as Damien looked at him with a surprised face.

"All right. Everyone else set up camp and start on the food. The faster we get the fire going to the warmer we'll be." Ordered Björn.

"We'll be back." Said Hans to his twin sister and brother he turned around and walked to the dark forest.

"Stay safe." Said Hanna.

"Yes mother." Said Cassandra sarcastically to her as she followed Hans into the dark forest with only a lantern as their guide.

---

Stockholm Castle

Despite the fact that it was late at night, Lars was still in his study looking over lots of paperwork. He let out a sigh, signalling how he was clearly very stressed.

knock-knock-knock

"Enter." He permitted.

The door opened and Queen Judith walked in.

"Darling." Lars greeted. "Is everything alright?"

"I'm fine. And Linnea is sound asleep. But Lars, please come to bed. It's late, and there's something I need to tell you that I didn't get to earlier."

"I remember, Judith. And believe me, I would love to just sleep peacefully for once, but I can't go to bed."

"Why not?"

"I got word that three ships uninvited ships arrived to our shores in Helsingborg this morning."

Judith suddenly was filled with worry. "Oh goodness..."

Lars noticed his wife's worry and finally got up from his study chair. "Don't worry, Judith."

"How can I not worry, Lars? Aren't you terrified of what may happen to our little family?"

"Of course I am. Which is why I'll take care of it by sending army captain Hendrick and his battalion after them." Said Lars.

"But Lars.. what if it's your father who sent your brothers or-"

"I don't know who it may be darling. But we'll handle it. I promise." Said Lars as he turned to ok of the nearby guards. "Guard."

"Yes your highness?" Said the Swedish guard as he walked up to the prince with widened eyes. Surprised he was suddenly summoned.

"Tell Captain Heindrick that he's being summoned."

---

Deep in the forest of Helsingborg

Hans was leading the way as he held the lantern. Cassandra was behind him as she held tightly the handle of her blade and a her musket over her shoulder while scoping out their surroundings.

It was very dark and quiet. Only but the sounds of their boots digging into the snow was heard.

Hans stopped and kneeled down and noticed a few animal prints on the snow. He gently felt the print with his fingers before lifting it up to his nose to smell.

"Wolves?" Asked Cassandra as she leaned forward looking at Hans and then back up.

"Two. Maybe three if one of them is a pup. Which seems like it is." Said Hans as he looked up to the dark forest.

Suddenly they heard a rather loud growl. Cassandra gasped as she quickly raised the musket up and pointed it to the direction it came from.

There in front of them were a pair of glowing eyes. A wolf staring at the two of them with threatening eyes. His fur was black.

Cassandra kept her musket pointed at the wolf while Hans slowly rose to his feet.

The wolf growled louder when he saw Hans stand up straight. It's eyes glowing as it continued to growl.

And naturally of course Hans emerald eyes began to glow as it stared right at the growling wolf. The two of them engaged in a intense stare down.

"What do I do Westergaard." Whispered Cassandra with terror to Hans as her index finger threatened to pull the trigger.

"Lower the musket." Said Hans as he continued to stare down the threatening voice.

Cassandra raised her brow as she turned to look at Hans with a questionable expression.

"Are you drunk? Let's just shoot it." Retaliated Cassandra.

"If you shoot you're going to alert the whole pack and what we have in front of us just so happens to be the alpha." Said Hans.

Cassandra continued to hold the musket tightly as she looked at Hans and at the wolf.

"Shouldn't that be more reason to shoot it? He dies than they all back off-"

"Lower the damn musket, Cass." Said Hans firmly as his emerald eyes glowed brighter. "They're a lot faster than you think."

Cassandra was unresponsive for several seconds. She wanted to shoot it. She didn't want to trust Hans word but how couldn't she? He was Hans.

"Fine." She breathed out as she finally lowered the musket.

The growling didn't stop. In fact it only grew louder and soon enough it was joined by a choir of growling wolves.

The wolves slightly stepped forward which caused their eyes to also reflect and glow. Soon enough there was a whole multitude of grey furred wolves growling at Hans and Cassandra.

Cassandra didn't dare move a muscle but she slowly put her hand on her sword handle just in case. But Hans stood his ground. His stare still cold and serious as his emerald eyes never left the alphas.

ROAR!

But suddenly the alpha wolf gave a loud growl of an order which caused all the approaching wolves behind him to immediately seize their growling.

All of the wolves slowly backed up and returned back into the deep forest leaving the alpha wolf as he continued to stare at Hans while Hans did the same.

Then the giant alpha wolf slowly turned around and in doing so revealed a female grey wolf and a young pup who shared the similar black fur as the alpha who followed them behind.

Cass let out a long held in breath when they finally disappeared as Hans glowing emerald eyes began to dimmer down.

"Let's head back to camp." Said Hans as he started walking back to the same trail they had come from.

Cassandra was quick to follow next to him as she took the glove of her right hand and began to move her wrist and fingers around as she winced quietly to herself.

Hans noticed it as he turned to look at Cassandra. "You still do that thing?"

"What thing?" Said Cass turning to look at him.

"That thing with your hand. You still move it around like you sprained it or something. I told you years ago to get that checked." He said.

"It's not necessarily hurting." She replied as she grabbed her right hand with the other and began to rub it.

"What do you mean by that? It never hurt you? Then why do you keep doing that." Said Hans with a brow raised.

"It's phantom pain." She replied.

"Phantom pain?" Asked Hans this time with pressed brows. "But you're hand looks perfectly intact. I mean it looks fine."

"A long time ago. I was with Rapunzel and she used a hurt incantation, despite being told not to. She needed to destroy some kind of magical tree, but it got out of control so I tried stopping her and well.."

"You got burned." Said Hans as he looked at Cassandra's hand and then back up at her. "You never told me that story."

"There's a lot I haven't told you, Westergaard." Sighed Cassandra as they continued their trail.

"But didn't you say her magical hair can heal people?" Said Hans.

"Well.. used to. Not anymore. She gave up that magic." Said Cassandra.

"Then your pain is more physiological. When you're feeling anxious or something." Said Hans.

"I guess so." Said Cassandra as she put the glove back on her hand. "But every time it feels uncomfortable it makes me think of her."

Hans noticed the slight sadness in Cassandra's eyes.

"She hurt me... I forgive her, but... it doesn't make the pain any lesser." Cassandra said softly and quickly.

But Hans knew her well. She hid the pain well much like he did.

"Anyways. Enough about me. What about you?" Said Cassandra.

"What about me." He said.

"Oh don't give me that. Come on isn't it obvious? Back in the Southern Isles? I could've sworn you made an oath you'd never set a foot in your kingdom ever again." Said Cassandra.

"Believe me I didn't want to. I would much rather be dead right now." He grunted.

"And yet here you are. Breathing and walking. The thing is you had a choice to die and you didn't take it." Said Cassandra.

"What's that supposed to mean? You'd rather have me dead?" Questioned Hans.

Cassandra erupted into laughter before shaking her head and continuing to speak.

"You and your dark humor. Never gets old." Sighed Cassandra. "What I mean to say is I know you well, Hans. You could have escaped, you could have offered yourself to die and you could have even gone back to Corona but instead you chose to actually honor Arendelle's contract with your father."

Hans stayed quiet as he pressed his lips and looked away.

"Why." She added.

A long silence fell between the two of them. Hans sighed heavily before he finally answered.

"I don't know." He said.

Cassandra raised her brow up. "You don't know. Interesting. I'm pretty sure that's the first time I've ever heard you say that."

"Yeah well don't get used to it." Sighed Hans as Cassandra chuckled. "Win or lose this war there's nothing left for me anyways."

Cassandra pressed her lips as she looked at him. "Nothing?"

"Nothing." Reassured Hans.

"What about Hanna?" Said Cass.

"Okay that doesn't count." Said Hans rolling his eyes as Cassandra smirked. "Besides it seems you two are taking care of each other now."

Hans looked over to Cassandra when she didn't say anything to that.

"What? You guys aren't a thing anymore?" Questioned Hans.

"We've never been a thing Westergaard. She's like a sister to me."

"Yeah a sister you sleep with." Said Hans with a raised brow.

Cassandra laughed as she shoved Hans almost making him trip over himself.

"Shut up! Besides you know your sister. She doesn't like settling down for a man. Least of all a woman. She's stubborn like that and so am I." Said Cassandra.

They walked further and further and every now and then they would engage in conversation.

He had forgotten how easy it was to speak with Cassandra. They had spent years together traveling the Mediterranean Sea.

"What was that place called? The beach where we last spent the night together before you took me to the Southern Isles." Asked Cassandra as she snapped her finger trying to remember the name.

"You mean Ibiza?" Said Hans.

"That's It! Ibiza! Oh how I wish I was there right now enjoying the weather and not this freezing fucking snow." Said Cassandra. "I always think about that place."

"Why cause we fucked there?" Said Hans.

Cassandra rolled her eyes. "We fucked everywhere, Hans. And you wish that was the reason why. Get your mind out of the gutter."

Hans chucked as Cassandra digged into her pocket and pulled out a small pocket watch. The same watch Hans had given her.

"My grandfathers pocket watch.. You kept it?" Asked Hans with a surprised brow raised.

"Duh. It's a good compass." Said Cassandra as she pressed on the gold button which raised the watch and unveiled a compass pointing north.

"It still looks brand new." Said Hans.

"What can I say? I like to take care of my stuff." Shrugged Cassandra as Hans smirked and looked out to his surrounding again.

"I miss it too you know." Said Hans.

"Miss what?" Asked Cassandra with confused brows.

"Ibiza. The food, the beach and the people. One of my favorite places in the world. Simpler times back then." Said Hans.

"We were outlaws." Said Cassandra reminding him.

"And yet I felt free.." Said Hans softly as Cassandra pressed her lips again.

There was a silence between the two as Cassandra glanced quickly over to Hans emerald yet soft eyes. She could tell he was imagining the simpler times back then.

"Thank you.. by the way." She added suddenly.

"For the watch?" Asked Hans.

"And for protecting us back there from the wolves. Said Cassandra as she gently tapped Hans shoulder.

Her hand slightly brushed his muscular back before she retrieved her hand away.

"Yeah well.. I didn't want the wolves chewing on used meat." Said Hans sarcastically with a smirk as Cassandra gasped with widened eyes.

"Used meat!? I'll show you used meat, you asshole!" Hissed Cassandra as she quickly reached down for a handful of snow as Hans ran forward.

Hans let out a genuine laugh for what seemed the very first time in a while as Cassandra threw the snowball to him hitting the back of his neck as he continued to outrun her.

She reached down for more snow before she chased after him.

---

Helsingborg Camp

Camp was set up as were a few fireplaces the soldiers had created to keep themselves warm from the freezing cold.

The men and woman had lined up in two files to pass out supper. Björn was among the ones helping helping them receive a bowl each.

It was potato Danish soup with a loaf of bread for each soldier. It was delicious in taste and creamy but more importantly it was nutrition they needed to refill their energy from the long walk and to get through the cold night.

Kristoff was one of the first in line for the hot soup so when he had returned with the wooden bowl and spoon in his hand he sat down by himself in front of a empty fireplace.

He sighed heavily as he looked up to the cold night sky while the warm evaporated soup descended from the bowl.

Suddenly Kristoff heard boots digging into the snow. He turned around just slightly where he could see Damien approaching Kristoff as he too sat down just a couple feet away from him in the fireplace.

"How does it taste?" Asked Damien as he made himself comfortable.

"I haven't tasted it yet. But it does smell good I suppose." Said Kristoff.

"Anything sounds appetizing when you've walking all day in the middle of a blizzard." Said Damien with a smirk as he began to mix the potato soul around with the wooden spoon.

Kristoff smirked slightly as he began to look out again with pondering thoughts overcoming his head.

"Mm. So.." Said Damien as he brought the wooden spoon up to his mouth and swallowed before mixing the soup again. "When were you planning to tell me you forged your application?"

The sudden and blunt question made Kristoff eyes widen as he turned to look at Damien with a shocked expression.

He struggled bringing himself to say something back to him. Only stuttering words came out of his mouth.

"I-I don't know what you're talking about-"

"Save your breath." Smirked Damien. "I caught the forged application from the minute you stepped on the ship."

Kristoffs brows furrowed as Damien continued to speak calmly.

"It's impossible for any man to get recruited that quickly into the army. It'a usually a two month process. Six weeks if you have connections to the royal family. But besides that there's not one one man that I don't know about who applies." Said Damien.

Kristoff stared at Damien with a surprised expression as he brought more soup to his lips. He was surprised how calm he was.

"If you knew all that than why didn't you stop me.." He said.

Damien quickly wiped his lips with a handkerchief. "At first I figured I might as well put you to the test. Queen Anna already approved anyways. But you proved yourself to be very diligent."

Kristoff brows slightly raised when he heard Damien praise him.

"You're very strong and you present no issues to our small group. You're also a lot more mature than the other new recruiters." Said Damien.

Kristoff stared at Damien as he continued to eat. "There's something else you want to say.. don't you.."

Damien sighed as he grabbed the piece of loaf bread and tested a piece off before he began to dip it into the soup.

"You and Queen Anna aren't together anymore are you." He said bluntly.

Kristoff sighed as he looked up to the cold sky again. His silence confirmed it.

"I could tell something was off by the way you two were bickering at each other on the ship. At first I thought it was just a little disagreement that would pass through but in the past couple of days it's only proved to me that you two are not even on speaking terms."

Kristoff raised his brows tiredly and nodded.

"Is that why you joined the Arendellian army? To win her back or protect her?" Asked Damien.

"I don't know." Sighed Kristoff as he looked up to the cold sky again. "At first I thought I was doing it for her own safety. I questioned her choice of even going to Denmark but.. I've realized that there is simply no point."

Damien pressed his lips. "I'm sure after all this is said and done you two will-"

"No." Said Kristoff to Damien in a soft but blunt way. "It's over between us. For good."

They we're silent again with only the crackling fire and chatter from soldiers nearby. Damien nodded slowly. "So that's that?"

"That's that. We're two entirely different people. It's better this way anyways." Said Kristoff.

"Well.. regardless. I do have to give you the unfortunate news that what you committed is a crime." Said Damien. "Forging paperwork to enlist in our army without authority approval is.. well illegal."

"I know" Sighed Kristoff.

"I'd had hope things between you and queen Anna would've gotten better at this point. She's the only one who can withdraw the charges." Said Damien.

"She won't withdraw them." Snickered Kristoff as he shook his head. "And besides we don't need to bring this to her attention. What's done is done. I'll take responsibility and face my consequences as soon as we return to Arendelle."

Damien nodded again with a slight smirk appearing on his lips as he looked up again to the gentle snowfall. "If we even make it back."

"Do you think we can win this war? I mean.. do we have a chance?"

"I've never been in a war." Said Damien.

Kristoffs eyes widened. "You haven't?"

"A battle is much more different than a war, Kristoff. I'm used to battling raiders, criminals and small neighboring cities. But not nothing this big with other countries." He explained.

"I forget the last time we were in a war was with Northudlra.." Said Kristoff.

"And even that didn't count. And by the time Norway reached the conflicts with Sweden in 1814 only our navy saw action. The Arendellian army had joined them too late for the cause. We were defeated.

But now with this.. where all Scandinavian countries are at war? This has never been done since the history of our people began.."

Kristoff listened attentively. He could even slightly see Damien's worries brows.

"So.. what are you saying?"

"This could be the end of Scandinavia, Kristoff." Sighed Damien. "The end of our world as we know it."

Kristoff watched as Damien return to his soup with his mouth open. Unable to say anything, completely speechless before he turned to his soup and began to finally eat.

Everyone had been eating the soup and chatting with one another. Making conversations of what they'll do when they make it back home or who is waiting for them.

Hans and Cassandra made it back to camp where Hanna and Björn were sitting with the rest of the shield maidens near the boulders and the fireplace.

"That was fast. You weren't even gone an hour." Said Björn surprised as the two made their way to the sitting group.

"Yeah well unfortunately we didn't have a choice." Said Hans as he made his way next to Björn and sat next to him.

"Yeah why's that?" Asked Hanna.

"There were a pack of wolves crossing by about six miles from here." Said Hans as he retrieved the bowl of soup and bread from Hanna.

"More like a whole family. It seemed like there were thousands of them." Said Cassandra as she sat next to Hanna and took the bowl of soup and bread as well.

"How'd you get away?" Asked Björn as he stuffed a piece of bread into his mouth.

"How else do you think? Good ol Westergaard charm." Smirked Cassandra teasingly.

Hans rolled his eyes and dipped the bread in the hot Danish soup before taking a bite.

Everyone who was finishing eating were washing their bowl and putting them away before they returned and made themselves comfortable near the warm fire to retire for the night.

Pretty soon all of them had retire to bed. The only one remaining awake were a few night guards and the Westergaard siblings with Cassandra who were talking with one another.

Hans was staring into the fire as he listened to them converse with one another.

"Do you think we'll survive the day tomorrow?" Asked Cassandra who was sharpening her sword with a smoothing stone.

"Not with that way of thinking. We have to be positive. Besides we need Lars to snap out of it first." Said Hanna who was adjusting the warm cot on herself.

"You think there's a chance he'll stand down?" Asked Cassandra with a brow raised.

"He's our brother. Why not?" Asked Hanna before turning to Björn.

"Lars is a reasonable guy. I'm sure he'll understand that it's best we don't even start conflict." Said Björn.

Hanna turned to look at her twin brother who was still staring into the fire emotionless.

"What do you think Hans?" She asked.

He was silent for a long period of seconds. But finally he answered.

"I think I'm going to kill Lars."

The sound of the sword being sharpened stopped immediately. The three of them couldn't summon any words as they looked at Hans. They knew he was being serious by the sound of his tone.

Finally Hanna sighed. "Hans.. don't joke around like that.

"I'm not." Replied Hans. "Our brothers couldn't bring themselves to do it either. Not even Kaleb."

"Brother come on. I know your angry with Lars but-"

"Angry? Oh I'm way past angry." Replied Hans calmly. "When I see Lars I won't be seeing my own blood. Instead I'll be seeing the man solely responsible for me being here in the first place."

"Okay stop! Hans cut that shit out right now." Said Hanna as she leaned forward. "He is our brother whether you like it or not. Just like Kaleb and the rest of them so drop this attitude of yours!"

Hans shook his head as he finally looked up at Hanna.

"What?" Questioned Hanna with furrowed brows.

Hans eyes were beginning to glow.

"When will you ever learn, Hanna." He said firmly before he turned his gaze to the crackling fire again. "I will kill Lars."

Cassandra, Björn and Hanna were left speechless as they saw his emerald eyes glow. Staring into the fire like a wolf plotting his next kill.

All while the cold blizzard continued to storm on.

---

Arendelle

Many had returned to their home to retire for the night early since it had gotten so cold and dark outside.

But while the majority of Arendelle was asleep, the paper boys who worked for The Arendelle Guardian, Arendelle's daily newspaper, rode on their horses throughout the night, delivering the next issue to every house in the village and even some of the nearby farms. Ensuring that everyone in Arendelle would get the news.

The news that Anna had agreed they were going to be joining The Southern Isles' war against Sweden.

A news that was sure to divide the kingdom.

---

Somewhere in Sweden

Tuesday

January 9th, 1844

Nobody had woken up through the whole night. Only the few who were assigned to stand watch. Kristoff had completed his shift and before they knew it they had breakfast and were on their way through the cold snow again as Hans, Björn and Hanna led the way.

Thankfully the wind was not violent and strong like yesterday. Even the snowfall seized as well. They arrived at a small stream and ordered everyone to stop.

"All right you got ten minutes. Fill up your canteens and stay in sight." Said Björn as they all began to do what they were told.

Kristoff grabbed his water pouch that was made of reindeer fur. A gift Ryder had given Kristoff. He walked towards the stream and refilled the pouch with cool water as many others did the same.

He filled it with water completely before bringing the pouch to his lips and began to drink. He let out a satisfied breath as the cold water ran down his throat.

He raised the pouch and began to drink again but then suddenly.

ZING!

A arrow hit the reindeer pouch Kristoff was drinking from which made him fall backwards with a astonished face as everyone turned to where the sound came from.

Hans brows furrowed when he saw Kristoff holding up the reindeer pouch in shock as water began to leak. Then his eyes widened. It could only mean one thing.

"Swedes! Take cover!" He shouted. Immediately more arrows began to fly forward.

ZING! ZANG! ZONG!

The arrows and spears were coming out of nowhere. No one could see where they were because the Swedes had hid themselves so well.

A few cries were heard as the arrows collided with soldiers and wounding them. Hanna immediately shouted an order to her shield maidens as they all began to surround Hanna and raise their shield up, covering their whole torso from danger.

"Stay together!" Exclaimed Björn as another soldier was hit by an arrow next to him.

"Shield wall!" Exclaimed Hans as everyone began to do exactly that. Raising their shield in a large wall that covered them all completely.

Hans turned to Kristoff who was still laying in the ground speechless as he watched the arrows fly past him.

Everything seemed like it was moving in slow time for him yet the arrows and spears flew in their normal speed. He was in shell shock.

Hans growled as he ran towards Kristoff and grabbed the back of neck collar and raised him to his feet.

"Get the hell up!" Yelled Hans as they ran back to the shield wall.

Hans pushed Kristoff into the center where his shell shock finally snapped out of him and he could see every man and woman holding the shield up to defend themselves.

All the arrows and spears began to shoot at the wall but none of them injuring them do to the strategic move. Only the ones who were left on the ground injured were impacted with more arrows as they shouted for help.

A spear went through Hans shield and almost touched his nose as he stared at with widened eyes. This continued on for several seconds until finally it seized.

There was a long silence that came. Only the wounded and dying soldiers grunted their last breaths as they tried crawling to the shield wall.

Hans lifted his shield just slightly where he can look around through small gap. No one had come out. No sign of Swedes anywhere.

Then suddenly a large uproar was heard as several Sweden soldiers in yellow uniform came out of the trees and bushes and began charging at them.

"STAND!" Exclaimed Hans as the whole shield wall stood together as they waited for the charging Swedes.

Kristoffs breathing grew heavier and heavier as the loud approaching footsteps got closer. He could even see the yellow uniforms approaching them.

Finally the Swedes collided with the shield as they tried kicking, punching and even slashing their way into the shield.

"BRACE!" Exclaimed Hans as they continued to hold the shield wall.

Despite the Swedes efforts in trying to break through they were unable to. Kristoff still laid on the ground in complete shock as he watched them hold the line as loud grunts and screams filled the air.

"Gunnhild!" Came the exclaim from Hanna who was next to her warriors as she held back the Swedes. "Get in position!"

Gunnhild, Hanna's large shield maiden followed Hanna's order as she stepped forward next to Kristoff who was still laying on the ground with a bow and arrow in her hands.

"Arrow ready!" Exclaimed the tall shield maidens as she held the bow and arrow up ready to shoot.

Hans and Björn quickly glanced at her and then back at the shield wall.

"OPEN!" Exclaimed Hans.

Hans and Björn moved their shields away for a second creating a large gap for a Swedish shoulder to come running through.

But Gunnhild was quick and shot the arrow striking the Swedish soldier hard in his chest and sending him flying backwards before Björn and Hans closed the gap with their shields again.

One of the Swedish soldiers tried piercing a spear through the wall but Hanna quickly countered and ran her sword through the man's face as Kristoff cringed at the bloody display.

The Arendellians were helping in keeping the shield wall braced but it was the Southern Isles along with Hans, Björn and Hanna who were giving orders and doing the most in combat. Their experience clearly showed above the rest.

A Swedish soldier clawed his way through the shield wall and landed on the snowy ground. His body and face full of cuts but when he noticed Kristoff staring at him in fear he quickly rose to his feet and charged after him.

"YAHHHH!" Shouted the soldier with all his rage.

Kristoffs eyes widened as the man's sword was raised above his head to strike him but suddenly a sword sliced the man's head clean off as his blood splattered all over Kristoffs face.

Kristoff panicked as he quickly tried brushing the blood away before he looked up again. It was Damien who had stopped the Swedish soldier from advancing towards Kristoff.

"GET UP BJÖRNMAN!" Shouted Damien to Kristoff.

The battle continued and Hans could see from the gaps a man that seemed to be shouting.

There he could see the captain of Swedish army shouting orders in their native language to advance. It was obvious he was the captain by the different ranks he possessed in his uniform.

But the shield wall stood firm. Gunnhild continued to shoot arrows at the Swedish soldiers while Hans and Björn held the line and slayed a good portion of Swedish soldiers.

"OPEN!" Ordered Hans again as he caught a spear trying to strike through the shield as him and Björn opened the gap again. Gunnhild shot another arrow towards the Swedish soldier going straight through his heart.

Even Hanna was shouting orders at her shield maidens as Cassandra joined in executing many of them.

The captain of the Swedish army grew worried as he blinked nervously. They were falling quickly and they weren't able to kill one man since the surprise ambush.

"HOLD THE SHIELD WALL!" Ordered Hanna again as they noticed more Swedish soldiers trying to claw their way in.

One of them was able to pierce a spear through a Southern Isles soldier but the soldier did not hesitate and instead pulled the spear from his belly and continued to attack.

Kristoff stared in disbelief.

"What do we do captain!?" Shouted one of the Swedish soldiers to Swedish captain.

The Swedish captain was afraid as he swallowed nervously as he watched his final men fall to their death.

"Fall back.." he muttered frightfully under his breath before finally exclaiming it out loud. "FALL BACK!"

"ADVANCE!" Exclaimed Björn as soon as he heard the Swedish captain say fall back. He knew they had their number.

And so they all charged as they finished executing the final Swedish men who were still alive.

Hans noticed the Swedish captain and a few other Swedish soldiers running away but wasted no time as he turned to look at his sister.

"Hanna!" He shouted at her.

Hanna quickly turned to Hans and then to the escaping Swedish soldiers. "Capture them!" She ordered.

Quicky Cassandra and a few other shield maidens ran after them and tackled them to the ground as they grunted in pain before they were tied up in bands.

And then as soon as they knew it the battle was over as the remaining Swedish soldiers were to their death.

Suddenly a large number of men came running from the snowy woods but they were not Swedes. In fact the men leading them was Kaleb.

Him and the rest of his brothers looked around the slaughter and then to Hanna and Björn who approached them with the Swedes blood on their faces and uniform.

"What happened?" Asked Kaleb as he suddenly noticed his younger brother in the back.

Hans was slowing down his breathing. His face was covered in blood but it was not his. It was from the men he had slain.

He walked passed a shell shocked Kristoff and towards the back of where the shield wall once stood as he crouched down and sat on the snow next to where the fallen Southern Isles soldier laid dead at last.

He held his blooded sword on his lap as he continued to catch his breath before putting a gentle hand on top of the slain Southern Isles soldier stomach as his eyes glowed emerald green.

---

Arendelle

Elsa's brows furrowed as she woke up. She heard something. It almost sounded like... chanting?

She blinked several times, making her realize it wasn't a dream. There was actual chanting going on, and it seemed to be coming from outside.

Elsa's eyes widened as she jumped out of her bed, wearing nothing but her purple nightgown, her bare feet padding on the floor as she ran over to her window and opened the curtain. What she saw made her gasp in shock.

A large crowd of her own people were in front of the castle gates. Many of them holding pitchforks, torches, and wooden signs.

"Warmonger! Warmonger!" They chanted loudly.

Elsa was still in shock but suddenly something came to her mind that filled her with worry.

Anna! She thought as she quickly ran out of her room and dashed to her sister's room with her nightgown still on.

Once she entered, she found that Anna was already awake and dressed as she stood in front of her window overlooking front of the castle, including the mob in front of the gates.

Elsa sighed in relief and approached Anna slowly.

"They've been going at it outside since five in the morning." Anna said suddenly as she continued to look out.

Elsa felt saddened as her sister sighed and the people continued to protest.

"You should get General Mattias to order them back to their homes." Elsa suggested.

"No, I'm not doing that. They have a right to protest. Plus, it'll make them despise me more than they already do." Anna replied.

Elsa was worried for her sister. "Are you okay?" She asked.

Anna answered after a moment. "I don't know..."

knock-knock-knock

"Come in." Anna permitted to whoever was knocking on the door.

The door opened and Gerda walked in.

"Everyone is waiting, your majesties." She said, the look on her face showing she was worried as well.

Anna nodded. "Thank you, Gerda. We'll be right there."

After Gerda closed the door, The sisters immediately started getting dressed. Since Anna had already been awake for some time and showered, Elsa changed into her deep purple regal dress before helping Anna finish changing into her casual Queen dress. Elsa had showered last night before retiring to bed anyways.

Then they left Anna's room and headed to the great hall, where the council, servants, and even the castle guards and army soldiers were all waiting.

They are practically pacing as Elsa followed alongside her sister while she braided her messy morning hair into her signature braided look.

Anna quickly walked to the throne and sat down as Elsa followed and stood next to her.

"Thank you all for gathering here this morning." Anna said. "Now, to discuss the next steps-"

"Your majesty. Please excuse my sudden interruption but if I may suggest, we should send the protesters back to their homes." General Mattias said.

"I've already decided that they may protest for as long as they wish, so long as they stay peaceful." Anna replied firmly.

"As you wish, your majesty." Nodded Mattias.

"Now General, were you able to recruit more men?"

"Yes, we were. They're already being prepared to be sent to sweden to join with Damien's forces." He explained.

"Perfect. How soon can they leave?" Asked Anna.

"I'm sending 190 of our best men with Lieutenant Damien. It still won't be enough in comparison to The Southern Isles large army but the rest of my men must stay in Arendelle to defend in case of a attack." Explained Mattias.

"Agreed. It's best we reinforce our kingdom. Council?" Said Anna turning to the whispering councilmen.

"We agree, your majesty." Answered the senior councilman.

"Good. Now to the next order of business. King Soren was able to send aid with us when we came back to Arendelle. Have you all counted on how long these provisions will last us?" Asked Anna.

"We have, Queen Anna." Said the only councilwoman in the group. "The provision should last for at least two weeks. But after that I'm afraid we'll need another shipment sent."

"I've been reassured by King Soren himself that he would send more within a week. The winter does make our logistics more complicated than what it used to be but I'm confident the Southern Isles will prevail." Said Anna.

"You're majesty if I may?" Said the admiral of Arendelle respectfully as he stepped forward.

"Yes Admiral Halvorsen?"

"May I suggest that we put more guards in our shores borders? Not just for any enemy ships but also to keep an eye out if we spot any of the Southern Isles ships with our provisions." Said the admiral.

"Yes please do that. In the meantime I want word sent out to our sheriffs that they go to each home and to inquire of the people what provisions they may need." Said Anna.

"I will inform the sheriffs but I must warn, Queen Anna. Many of the people will most likely express their distraught in her majesty.." said Mattias.

Anna sighed as she looked at Elsa briefly and then back at them.

"Let them speak." Said Anna. "The rest of you must be attentive at all times. Please report any suspicious activity and make sure our people are being watched over."

"Yes your majesty." They all said in union.

"Then this meeting is adjourned."

---

Somewhere in Sweden

"What else happened? How long were you here? Did anyone else see any of you?" Kaleb had been questioning Hanna and Björn with many questions even after they had explained everything that occurred.

"For the billionth time, Kaleb. We had just arrived to rest and refill our canteens. It didn't take more than a minute until they started shooting us from the hidden bushes." Explained Hanna.

"She's right, Kaleb. That's all that happened. We were quick to respond but that doesn't mean we weren't hit." Said Björn.

"How many casualties?" Asked Kaleb.

"I counted five last time." Replied Björn.

"Make that eight." Said Erik the tenth oldest as he was seen dragging the corpse of a dead man while the twin brother Rudi and Runo did the same with other dead corpses. "They weren't able to survive their injuries."

They stacked them next to each other with the rest of the fallen soldiers. Kaleb walked forward to the grave that was being dug for them and inspected them closely.

"All of them are our men." Said Kaleb with a serious expression as he looked at all of them.

"There are three Arendellian soldiers injured but no sign that they will submit to their injuries. As far as I saw they can still make the travel." Said Franz the second oldest.

Kaleb sighed heavily as he turned around but his gaze stopped when he saw Hans whistling a calming tune as he approached the captive Swedish soldiers while bouncing a apple he just washed in the stream off his hand and catching it with ease.

The Swedish soldiers were all clearly afraid of him. Even their captain. But he forced himself to keep a serious face.

Kaleb and the rest of his brothers turned to follow Hans. Even Hanna did the same as soon her shield maidens followed and then before they knew it everyone went to see what Hans was going to do to them.

Hans grunted as he sat himself in front of the Swedish captain and pulled out his grandfather's dagger. At first everyone watching behind him thought he was going to start torturing him.

But Hans instead began cutting pieces of the large apple and plopping them to his mouth. Then he cut another slice and offered it to the confused captain.

But the captain didn't say a word. He remained silent. Confused by the mind games Hans was playing with him.

Hans shrugged and plopped the apple slice into his mouth.

"Vem är du?" Asked Hans in Swedish which in translation meant "Who are you?"

"I am Heindrick. Captain of the Stockholm army." He replied in his Swedish tongue.

"Captain? And your prince sent you to detain us?" Said Hans with brows raised as he took another bite of a sliced apple piece.

"He sent me to have you surrender and sail back to Denmark. If not then execute you in the spot." He replied with seriousness.

"Wow. You hear that brothers? Lars doesn't want us to pay him a visit." Said Hans sarcastically as he turned to his siblings.

A few of them couldn't help but chuckle. Except Kaleb of course. He only stared at the Swedish captain with anger in his eyes.

"How about you tell us where Lars is and how we find him sooner. It seems we aren't too far from Stockholm and perhaps you know a quicker route than we do." Said Hans.

The Swedish captain remained silent and Kaleb was losing his patience. He was about to step forward to strangle the man but Björn quickly held a hand out.

"Hold brother. We all know that if anyone can get information out of anyone and be persuasive it's Hans." Said Björn.

Kaleb growled.

"Or.. how about I just kill you now?" Said Hans calmly.

"Then you'll have nothing to bargain with." Retaliated the captain.

Hans smirked deviously as he pulled out his bloodied axe and began waving it carelessly in front of Heindrick's face.

"I have this." Said Hans.

The Swedish captain took in a deep breathe before letting it out.

Kristoff had been in the back of all the huddled soldiers trying to understand what they were talking about. Only able to understand a few words here and there.

"Kill me if you want. But I know I shall be saved by my Lord Jesus. For I defended my Queen and my kingdom honorably. And the Lord shall strike you down and your corrupt kingdom at the last day." He preached boldly.

Hans raised his brow as he turned to his family again. And once again a majority of them couldn't help but laugh as he turned back to face him.

"We'll there's two things wrong with that holy preaching you just did there, Heindrick. Number one, you didn't defend your queen or kingdom honorably because you lost."

Laughter from the Southern Isles camp escaped their lips once more.

"And secondly, praying to your God won't save you." Said Hans as he ran his right index finger through the bloodied axe blade and then raising it to the captains forehead, drawing a bloodied crucifix on it. "Because here I am judge, jury and executioner."

The captain swallowed nervously. Unable to flaunt his bravery no longer.

Hanna smirked.

---

Northuldra

Honeymaren was walking through the camp with Ryder following closely next to her. They had just arrived after a day and a half, which was the usual travel time from Arendelle when going on foot.

Everyone looked at the two of them carrying their travel packs made from reindeer fur as they welcomed the two back home.

"Maren! Ryder!" Came the voice of the teenage healer as she ran up to them. "Welcome back!"

"Hello, Rhanda. How is our mother recovering?" Ryder asked.

"She's doing much better now, actually. Would you like to see her?"

"Not right now, we need to speak to Yelena. Do you know where she is right now?" Honeymaren asked suddenly.

Rhanda's eyes widened. "Uh, yeah, she's in the Tipi of The Elders. But I think she's currently meeting with the other tribe leaders."

"Maybe we should wait until they're finished, Maren." Ryder suggested.

"No, we're not waiting. This is an urgent matter we must bring to Yelena and the other elders' attention." Honeymaren replied firmly.

"What urgent matter?" Rhanda asked with furrowed eyes.

"You'll find out later." Honeymaren replied as she patter Rhanda's arm before she and Ryder headed to where the Tipi of The Elders was.

The tipi was larger than the rest of the other tipis. It was built to hold up to thirty people in one setting.

"Yelena? It's Honeymaren. Ryder and I have something urgent to tell you. May we come in?" Honeymaren asked from outside the Tipi.

"Yes, you may enter." Yelena answered after a moment.

Honeymaren moved the fabric concealing the Tipi's entrance and entered, with Ryder following. They immediately saw Yelena and the other six tribe elders sitting around a warm fire in the center of the Tipi.

"Honeymaren, Ryder, welcome back. I assume your journey with the Arendellians was encouraging?" Yelena greeted.

The other tribe elders simply nodded at the twins. Each elder had wore similar reindeer fur like them, but each had it's own unique color.

"Well, in a way, yes. But there is something very urgent you all must know." Honeymaren replied before taking a deep breath and telling them what happened.

"Queen Anna agreed to aid the Southern Isles in their war against Sweden."

"Ah, so she's finally showing her true colors." Said the male elder of the Moon Tribe, Dávvet.

"Chief Dávvet!" Yelena hissed. "Queen Anna is our ally, as is her sister, Queen Elsa. Who I will remind you is the Fifth Spirit of Nature! Were it not for them, the mist would still be cutting us off from the outside world."

"I am aware, Yelena. I am also aware that they are the grandaughters of King Runeard. His blood runs in their veins." Dávvet shot back.

"He has a good point, Yelena." Replied the female elder of the Reindeer Tribe, Edel.

Yelena sighed. "Even so, Queen Anna's decision does not affect us. Right, Maren?"

Honeymaren didn't answer right away, which made Yelena worry.

"Maren?"

Honeymaren sighed. "She asked for the support of our warriors to help defend their homeland."

This outraged the other elders as they rose in uproar. All while Yelena sat with wide eyes full of shock and disbelief.

"Yelena, you of all people know we cannot, and must not agree to this." Said the male elder of the Wolf Tribe, Rástoš, who's tribe had the most elite and skilled warriors out of all the Northuldra tribes.

"We never should've left the old ways." Said the female elder of the Tree Tribe, Verá.

"Everyone, please calm down." Yelena requested. "My tribe and Arendelle are now Allies. We must look forwards, not backwards on our history."

"Oskár? What do you propose we do?" Asked the male elder of the Fish Tribe, Sálmo.

The other six elders turned to the final and oldest of them all. The elder of the Life Tribe, Oskár.

He rubbed his face for a moment and sighed before finally answering. "I believe a vote is in order. Those in favour of supporting Arendelle?"

Yelena raised her hand, hoping at least one of her fellow elders would side with her.

But none of them did.

"Those against?"

Yelena lowered her hand while the other six elders raised theirs.

"Then it is decided. I'm sorry, Yelena. But if you wish to fight with Arendelle, you'll fight alone." Oskár declared.

Yelena sighed as the other elders rose to their feet and began to exit the Tipi and return to their respective tribes.

Honeymaren and Ryder stepped aside as the elders all exited the tipi. Yelena then stood up to her feet and turned to them.

"What happened?" She demanded.

Honeymaren and Ryder's eyes widened. It was clear that Yelena was not happy. She had been hiding her anger until the elders had left.

"Queen Anna was worried that if she didn't agree to join the war, Arendelle would collapse." Honeymaren explained. "And if that happened, we would lose our cut of the provisions."

"We survived inside the mist for over thirty years, Maren. We do not need Arendelle's support. And yet now you expect me to just agree to send you two and our warriors off to help defend Arendelle?"

"Yelena, I assure you that I will do everything in my power to make sure nothing happens to our people." Honeymaren reassured.

"Yelena. Queen Anna expects an answer of your support soon." Added Ryder who stepped forward next to her sister.

Yelena shook her head and sighed deeply again. "Give me some time to think on this."

The twins nodded as they watched Yelena walk past them and very conflicted.

After Yelena left the Tipi, Honeymaren and Ryder exited soon after.

Honeymaren sighed as she rubbed the back of her neck.

"Maybe you should summon the wind spirit to inform the Arendellian queens." Ryder suggested.

Honeymaren looked at Ryder with an eyebrow raised, to which he shrugged.

Honeymaren then called for the wind spirit the same way that Elsa and her mother did.

"Ah~ Ah~ Ah~ Ah~"

---

Somewhere in Sweden

Kristoff had been staring at his reindeer fur water pouch endlessly. Rubbing his thumb over the whole where the arrows spear connected to.

He couldn't believe he was this close to death. And it wasn't the first time either. As an ice harvester his life was always at high risk of danger.

Hiking through the cold snow and fjords was always dangerous. Even passing the glaciers where he could fall and be trapped forever.

But this time. This time he felt different. Because it was different.

He'd never been in a battle to the death before. The only combat he was even in was with other ice harvesters on the job when there was confrontation or when they wanted to pass time and find a way to stay warm by wrestling with each other.

But nothing compared to what occurred today. He could see his whole life flash before his eyes. He froze worse than reindeers at night.

Kristoff blinked several times when he heard boots approaching from behind him. It was Damien as he wiped the the few drops of blood from his uniform and from his face.

"You okay?" Asked Damien as he sat across from him.

"Y-yes.." Said Kristoff clearing his throat quickly as he put his water pouch again. Trying to act as if nothing was going on.

But the uncomfortable silence did not help him look past it. Especially not when he had Damien staring at him as if he was waiting for a explanation.

"I... froze.." Kristoff finally muttered.

"I know." Nodded Damien as he looked away and then back at Kristoff. "It happens to all of us at some point when we experienced what we just did."

"How.. how do you get past this." Said Kristoff as he closed his eyes. "I don't want this to happen again."

"You don't get past it." Damien said as Kristoff looked up at him with furrowed brows and his mouth open. "You accept it, pray God for help and move on. It's what a soldier does."

Kristoff sighed heavily as he looked away before he noticed everyone starting to rise to their feet again and huddle towards Kaleb and his brothers who were shouting everyone to come forward.

"Hurry up! On your feet you bastards!" Exclaimed Franz the second oldest as he rushed everyone.

"All right let's move out before it gets dark. Double time. We're in enemy territory now so if you separate from us or can't keep up than you are on your own. I'll leave you to freeze to death or be eating by the wolves if I have to because we are not waiting for you. MARCH!" Exclaimed Kaleb.

Immediately they started leading the way this time Björn, Hanna and Hans weren't in the front since Kaleb was already taking charge.

Hans noticed Kristoff from the corner as he adjusted the traveling back on himself. He growled inwardly and walked towards him

"Do me a favor. Next time you're planning to kill yourself can you at least get it over with quicker? That way I'm not dragging your sorry ass back to safety." He said.

Kristoff rolled his eyes and looked away. "Shut the hell up. I didn't need you to save me."

"And yet I did. Imagine the madness that will go down when Anna finds out-"

"Keep your name out of her damn mouth." Said Kristoff firmly as he glared at Hans.

"Then get your shit together and stay focused. We don't need you slowing the group down." Hans retaliated.

"I am not slowing the group down! W-why am I even talking to you. Should you be up there with the rest of your corrupt family!?" Said Kristoff.

"Is everything all right gentlemen?" Asked Damien suddenly as they turned to look at the lieutenant who approached them with his hands behind his back.

"Just stay the hell out of my way." Said Hans lastly before he marched away and headed back with Hanna and Björn.

Damien nodded when Hans walked past him and then he too turned around to keep on walking.

Kristoff growled inwardly as he watched Hans join his siblings.

"I really really hate that guy.."

---

The Southern Isles

The castle was quiet. His grandchildren were running around and being playful while his daughter in laws watched over the children.

But it was not the same without any of his sons home.

He sat on his great throne with his youngest grandchild in his lap as she watched her cousins play and wrestle with each other while she clapped her hands.

But Soren's thoughts have drifted to his sons and the war. Nothing seemed important to him at all.

"Your majesty?" Came the sudden voice from the captain of the guard.

Soren's brows rose quickly as he leaned forward with his granddaughter in his lap.

"Speak." He ordered.

"We have just received word that the princes and Princess along with the rest of our armed troops and ally's have just made first contact with the Swedes." He said.

Soren let out a breath before speaking. "Any casualties?"

"A handful sire. But none of his majesties children I am happy to report." Said the captain as Soren let out a breath as did his married daughter in laws. "We're sending our officers to the kingdom to inform the families who've lost their soldier in the war. I just thought you should know."

"Thank you, captain. And please give those families my condolences." Said Soren as the captain quickly bowed to the king before quickly marching away.

Soren leaned back on his throne as he rubbed his beard. Pondering what he had just heard as something came over his head.

"Captain." Exclaimed Soren again as the captain quickly came back to Soren.

"Yes your majesty?"

"Send more provisions to our men in Sweden and more spies into the kingdom. We cannot risk losing more men, even those who are about to join them with Arendelle."

"Yes your majesty. Anything else?"

"Yes. Send a decree that if there are any able and strong men from the Northern Isles to step forward and we will give them our uniform to wear and our sword to wield." Said Soren.

"Your majesty even the refugees?" He said with a brow raised.

"Yes. Everyone." He said.

---

Borders of Stockholm Sweden

They knew they arrived at last to the borders of Stockholm by the way the border had completely closed. There was a steep hill of snow for anyone who was trying to access the border that seemed to encircle the large kingdom of Stockholm.

Kaleb growled angrily as Hans smirked and shook his head while inspecting the large steep snowy hill. "Lars you son of a bitch. Clever."

"Jesus Kaleb it's gonna take a whole team to get us up the hill. By the time we get up there we would have already blown our cover." Said Jørgen the fourth oldest.

Rudi and Runo tried working together as Runo used his large and muscular back to hoist Rudi up. Rudi crawled a few times but ended up slipping and falling into Runo as the two twins yelped.

Hanna burst out laughing at the two of them.

"Can we have dinner already? I'm starving!" Said Aksel the sixth oldest.

Kaleb rolled his eyes and sighed. "All right everyone listen up! We'll camp here for the night and try to figure a way up the hill."

While everyone began to pitch their tents and start the fire for dinner something came over Kristoff. He walked up to the large steep hill and inspected it carefully.

Then he ran his hand over the cold snow as if he was feeling and connecting with the hill.

"Typical Lars move. He knew by doing this it would only give his men more time to see a struggling battalion trying to enter his kingdom. Smart move I gotta give it to him." Shrugged Hans who was kneeled down and fetching his canteen.

"Hyah! Yah!" Grunted Hanna as she drew her sword and slid it across the steep hill before jabbing it with her metal shield in hopes to break it up.

But it made no difference. Snow fell from the hill like water drops. Not at all affected by the strikes.

"Nothing, it's far too strong." She said knocking on the hard snow. "It's like Queen Elsa used her powers on it or something."

"We should've brought her." Said Magnus the seventh oldest with a devious smirk. "She definitely would have given us a advantage."

"Magnus the only advantage you dream of is your dick inside the queen." Said Erik the tenth oldest as a couple of his brothers chuckled while Hanna rolled her eyes and Hans stayed quiet but annoyed.

"Haha OW!" Exclaimed Erik as he rubbed the back of his head. Hanna had collided her strong hand against the back on his head.

"Be respectful of the way you speak of Queen Elsa doofus! Besides you're all too ugly to have a chance with someone as beautiful as her." Said Hanna.

"Preach!" Teased Cassandra as the shield maidens and Björn chuckled.

"I'm just admiring her beauty, Hanna. Everyone knows the queen is beautiful right?" Argued Erik as several of his brother shook their head in agreement. "Geez you all act like it's a crime to do so." Argued Erik.

"When they're as ugly as you it's a crime for sure brother." Teased Hans as Björn erupted into laughter as did a couple of other of his brothers.

"All right will everyone shut up! For Gods sake we need to figure a way to get the up that hill." Growled Kaleb.

"I have an idea." Came the sudden declare from Kristoff as they all turned to look at him.

Damien who had been too preoccupied looking over his soldiers and giving directions turned around to see Kristoff who had approached the crown prince.

"You do?" Asked Kaleb with a brow raised and his expression serious.

Hans furrowed his brows as he took a sip of his water.

"I'm an ice harvester. I have been my whole life. I climb hills and mountains like this every day." Said Kristoff.

"Hold on. Are you not the fiancé and soon to be prince consort of queen Anna?" said Gunter the fifth oldest.

Kristoff was quiet for a mime until he finally answered. "I am."

Clearly lying through his teeth. That was not the case anymore.

"What's your name?" Asked Franz the second oldest who stood next to Kaleb.

"Kristoff. Kristoff Björnman." Said Kristoff clearing his throat.

"Ice harvester huh? Whoever knew the queen of Arendelle had a type." Chuckled Ivar the eleventh oldest with a devious smirk.

"Have some respect my brothers. He is after all going to be a prince soon." Said Kaleb as he looked at Kristoff again. "Now. Tell us what you had in mind."

"In Norway our fjords are large and long. Probably some of the largest in all of Scandinavia so we're accustomed to traveling up hill and over them. And the only way to get over is by using pickaxes and rope." Said Kristoff.

"We don't have pickaxes, and the rope we have isn't long enough to make such a climb." Argued Ivar.

"No but you have axes. That could work and I could fashion more rope. I just help locating linden trees."

"You mean lime trees? Pah. Good luck. It's the middle of winter you won't find any of that anywhere." Said Günter.

"Not if we try looking first. Look I can still make it work. And it's our best shot at climbing up the snowy hill." Argued Kristoff.

"And if the rope isn't stable enough. What if it breaks." Said Ivar as they all turned to look at him and then at Kristoff. "Then we'll fall to our death."

Kristoff was silent for a moment before he finally sighed. "We won't know until we try."

Kaleb stepped forward as everyone waited for him to speak.

"Okay. We will follow your plan."

---

Nobody had gone to sleep. They all stayed awake through the night as they tried to look for the tree.

Much to their surprise they were able to find lime trees that were in the beginning stages of their growth.

Everyone had supper quickly but immediately got to work and began fashioning ropes. They learned through Kristoff and followed his lead while Hans, Björn and a few other tied the knot to the long rope they already processed.

Once it was finished Kaleb called a meeting for everyone as they all took a knee in front of him while he began to speak.

"At midnight we will be crossing up the snowy hill. It will be the darkest time of the night so we want to make sure we are not seen so that means we will be crossing through with no fire, no lanterns of any kind and quickly." Said Kaleb.

"How the hell are we going to cross without any light? It's a suicide mission." Argued Rudi as several Arendellian and Southern Isles soldiers agreed.

"Shhh, quiet." Ordered Kaleb as everyone ceased. "This is where Kristoff comes in and explains his plan."

Kristoff cleared his throat and walked forward before he began to address them.

"The secret is going to be your axes. We will use them to scale up the hill in a slow but sure pace while the rope is tied to our bodies." Said Kristoff.

"Great but who's going to scale up first and tie the rope to the nearest tree so they can guide and help us up?" Said a Southern Isles soldier.

"I will climb first. The rest of you will follow behind slowly. But it's important you use your axe for balance. Otherwise-"

"Otherwise what?" Question Cassandra.

Kristoff pressed his lips. "Otherwise you'll fall and if you do survive you'll be paralyzed for the rest of your lives.

Many of the soldiers began to murmur as Kaleb and Franz tried to silence them all. Hans stayed quiet with his hands resting on his armored collar as he observed and paid close attention.

"Look I know it sounds crazy but it'll work. Trust me. We just need to stay focused. That's all." Said Kristoff.

"You heard Kristoff. This is our best shot as reaching Stockholm." Said Damien as he stepped forward. "Ready your gears and positions!"

"Agreed. Let's go! Quickly!" Shouted Kaleb as everyone began to scramble and grab their gears and provisions.

Kristoff walked towards the rope and began to tie it on himself until suddenly he felt a tug. He turned around with furrowed brows and his eyes widened when he saw who it was.

"No. No I'm going alone." Said Kristoff as Hans tied the rope on his waist.

"Agreed. But you need someone to maintain your balance while you climb. If not you'll eat the ground." Said Hans as he finished tightening the rope. "Now let's go."

Kristoff sighed and growled as he turned to face the large snowy hill again. "Fine."

And so they began to climb.

---

Arendelle

It was late at cold out but the crowd of the Arendellian citizens outside the gates had grown larger as they still chanted and accused Anna of being a warmonger. They had even brought pitchforks and torches with them as they continued to protest.

Mattias had pled with Anna to at east provide some sort of safety measure. Therefore Anna approved and ordered for guards to surround the entrance of the castle in case they dared barge in.

But if they're protest was still peaceful and they were causing no harm to anyone around them or any property then they could continue cursing her name as much as they wanted.

Elsa and Anna had been in the study chambers all day going over provisión numbers. The night had come and they were using many lanterns around them to provide lights and continue working.

Knock-knock

"Enter." Replied Anna with her face resting on her palm as she continued to stare was the paperwork in front of her with a pen in her hand.

The door opened and General Mattias entered.

"Yes, General?" Anna asked.

"Your majesties, I have received word from one of my nephew's men. They have made contact with the Swedish army." Mattias explained as he closed the door behind him.

Anna tensed up at hearing that. The war had begun.

"Ready the new men so that they may depart for Sweden first thing tomorrow morning." Anna ordered as she quickly shook her head.

Mattias nodded and left, making Anna sigh heavily and rub the bridge of her nose stressfully.

Elsa pressed her lips as she saw her sister from the corner of her eyes. The stress wasn't getting any better.

"Ahem." Elsa cleared her throat. "Do you think we should finally have a sisterly talk about Kristoff-"

"No, Elsa. Drop it please." Replied Anna without looking up at her as she flipped through paperwork.

"Anna-"

"I SAID NO!" Anna exploded, making Elsa's eyes widen.

"Anna, this is really something you should talk about-"

"Elsa, I don't want to hear that bastard's name come out of your mouth again! Nor do I want to talk about anything regarding him! As far as I care, if he hasn't died already, he is dead to me! Do you understand?!" Anna shouted again.

Elsa sighed. And although she was tempted to rebuke her sister and retaliate with an attitude of her own, she chose not to and swallowed her rebuke.

"I'm gonna make myself a tea." Said Elsa sternly as she stood up from her chair and left the study chambers, closing the door behind her.

Elsa sighed heavily as she pinched the bridge of her nose and shook her head. Reminder herself that she was the big sister and she needed to be the bigger person.

But oh how tempted she was to yell back at that moment..

She needed a friend to talk to right now. And there was only one friend she knew who would listen to her and not talk back like Anna could.

Sitron.

She went to the stables and entered. She found the brown horse resting his head on his stable door. He looked kinda sad.

Probably because he misses his dad. Elsa thought.

"Hey Sitron." Elsa greeted.

The steed perked up at hearing his other owner.

"You doing okay, boy?" Elsa asked, putting her cool hand on his neck.

Sitron whined slightly.

"I know it's hard, being stuck here while your dad is away at war. But if there's anything I learned about Hans over the past 6 months, it's that he's a very capable fighter. So I think he'll be just fine." Elsa said with a smile.

Sitron leaned his head on Elsa's shoulder , to which Elsa hugged his neck gently in response, petting him softly.

All while her thoughts lingered on her soldiers, Kristoff and.. even Hans. Wondering if he was safe.

---

Borders of Stockholm Sweden

Kristoff and Hans had made it to the top of the hill. They looked down where there was a twenty to twenty five foot descend. The night time had come and the air was colder than yesterday.

Hans and Kristoff worked quickly as they tied the new fashioned ropes to the trees to make sure they would hold steady.

"Okay. We're good to go." Said Kristoff running back to the end of the hill where the large group of Arendellian and Southern Isles soldiers were waiting below.

Kaleb closed his eyes and sighed. "Let's hope this works. Ready your positions."

Everyone formed line below the ropes before Kristoff called out to them.

"Only one at a time. Once you see the person in front of you has reached the middle then you can start to climb." Said Kristoff.

"You heard him. Let's go." Ordered Damien.

Immediately the first group began to climb as they used their axes to dig into the hill and host themselves up.

And this they did as they went further up slowly as Hans and Kristoff helped them up.

---

Stockholm Castle

Lars was in bed, asleep with his wife. His glasses were off, but he found himself putting them on when he heard something, or rather someone, next to him.

"Papa?" Came the gentle and soothing voice of his daughter, Linnea.

"Linnea? What's wrong? It's awfully late." Lars asked with a yawn escaping his mouth.

Linnea was silent for a moment, but answered eventually.

"I had another bad dream." She replied with a truthfully sad look on her face.

"Oh sweetie..." Lars replied as he hugged his little girl. "Come, sleep with mama and papa for tonight."

Linnea nodded softly and made herself comfortable between her mother and father.

There was silence for a moment before Linnea whispered.

"Papa?"

"Hmm?" Lars hummed in reply with his eyes closed.

"When will I be able to see all my cousins again?"

Lars' eyes widened. But he couldn't blame her for asking. Her innocent little mind was completely oblivious to the war and everything else going on.

He turned to look at her innocent and gentle face.

"I'm not sure..." Lars replied after a moment.

Linnea cuddled with her dad as she feel asleep, leaving Lars with worried thoughts again as he sighed heavily.

---

Borders of Stockholm Sweden

Wednesday

January 10th, 1844

Hans grabbed a hold of his sisters hand and pulled her up as she landed her feet steadily on the snow before looking around her as Hans helped Cassandra up and then the rest of the shield maidens.

It was midnight and Kristoff's planned had worked. Everyone had made it to the hill. Only a few were left below but they were making it up the hill in no time.

"It worked." Said Hanna with her hands on her hip as she looked around. "We've made it to Stockholm and without getting noticed."

"For now" Said Hans as he helped the last of Hanna's shield maidens up.

"What? Look we made it." Argued Hanna.

"Don't get ahead of yourself, Hanna." Grunted Bjorn as Cassandra helped him up. "We can't keep our guard down."

The rest of the Westergaards brother made it up as Franz helped Kaleb up the hill. He then walked over to the group where Kristoff, Hans and Björn were as all the other soldiers followed behind him.

"Great. Now what." Said Kaleb.

"That's.. all I had." Said Kristoff as he cleared his throat. "I got you guys up here but I'm just a ice harvester."

"Is anyone else not worried at the fact that now we're in Lars territory? He could send a dozen of patrolling soldiers to attack us any minute!" Hissed Ivar.

"We already have a few men keeping an eye out, Ivar." Said Björn before he turned to his oldest brother. "It's two in the morning. Knowing Lars he's probably still asleep."

"It's Lars. No way in hell he's sleeping. He's plotting something." Said Erik.

Then suddenly a sudden shot of a musket filled the air as a bullet flew across the Westergaardss brothers and hit a Arendellian soldier on the leg as he yelped in pain.

"AMBUSH! TAKE COVER!" Exclaimed Damien as everyone quickly dashed to hide themselves as more arrows shot forward.

The sky was so dark that nobody could see the bullets shooting at them. Just the noise of the musket was heard.

"Where's it coming from!?" Exclaimed Kristoff who had hid himself behind a boulder as a bullet hit the boulder six inches from his head.

"I don't know but keep your head down and try not to go to shell shock again would ya!?" Said Hans ducking his head behind a bush.

In the woods there was a Swedish soldier who had been patrolling the borders before returning back to the castle. He was on his way back when he noticed the battalion.

He reached for his musket and reloaded it with powder before he raised it up and pointed it at Kristoffs head that could be seen poking out of the boulder.

He was about to squeeze the trigger until suddenly.

"Need some help with that?"

The Swedish soldier furrowed his brows and turned around to find the large twins glaring at him. Rudi smirked when the soldier gasped in terror. Then he clotheslined him across the throat knocking him unconscious.

The soldiers noticed that the firing had stopped as they peeked their heads out to see what happened but they only saw two large men coming from the woods.

"Rudi?" Said Björn noticing his brothers as he stood up on his feet.

He had the unconscious soldier on his shoulder as he walked towards them with his twin brother next to him. Once they met with the group they dropped the unconscious soldier to the ground.

"Your welcome." Smiled Rudi.

"Well that's just great. Now our cover is blown! Some plan." Growled Ivar to Kristoff who was furrowing his brows.

"Relax." Said Kaleb as he studied the Swedish soldier.

"Relax. How can I relax, Kaleb!?" One of Lars men caught us. He probably already alerted them and called for back up. Lars could be here any minute with the whole Swedish army!

"We can negotiate." Said Hanna.

"With Lars? How?" Said Franz.

"We have his man hostage. We could send a message that we'll return him after we speak with Lars." Said Hanna.

"It's Lars. He's not going to give in to that." Retaliated Ivar.

"He's right." Said Hans suddenly as they all turned to look at him who was kneeled down and starting to draw on the snow with a branch stick.

"What's he right about." Said Kaleb sternly.

"In the next few hours or so Lars will be notified of our arrival. They'll suspect it once they realize one of their soldiers hasn't returned after their shift." explained Hans as he continued to draw on the snow.

"What are you suggesting then?" Asked Magnus the seventh oldest.

"We need to outsmart Lars." Said Hans after a long moment as he looked up to his brothers who erupted into laughter.

"Outsmart Lars? Are you sure you aren't drunk brother? Or has that Arendellian air affected your brain." Mocked Aksel the sixth oldest.

Hans looked up at him with a annoyed expression and a brow raised.

"Hans. We're in Lars territory. He already has an advantage." Said Björn.

"Not if we cut their food supply." Said Hans.

Sudden murmurs and whispers were heard at hearing what Hans just suggested.

"Food supply?" Said Björn with furrowed brows as everyone else shared the same expression.

"Look." Said Hans signaling to all his brothers and the large group of soldiers as they surrounded him.

"The Stockholm castle is here." Said Hans pointing the stick at the very center where Hans drew a castle on the sand. "Now we already know that Lars has a lot of men patrolling inside and outside the kingdoms borders. But in doing so he also gave more access for us to enter the food shelters that are across the kingdom."

Hans pointed at all the food shelter he drew around the kingdom in the snow.

"And what do we do with their food shelters? Steal it?" Asked Damien.

"No. We burn them." Said Hans as the whole group gasped and spoke with one another about his plan. "At least not all of it. But just enough to drive Lars insane and force him to lead his army to the outskirts of the eastern borders."

He drew a line from the castle he drew all the way to the a border he drew around the kingdom.

"Where we'll be waiting for him." Said Hanna with her hand on her chin. Now clearly understanding her twin brothers plan.

"Precisely." Said Hans nodding.

"I don't know about this, Kaleb. Burning all of Stockholms food shelters? Stockholm is a large kingdom." Said Franz.

"This plan could take two, three or four days to achieve. Maybe even a week if we're lucky enough to hit them all." Added Erik.

"Time is at our side." Argued Hans. We will be patient and in the mean time have time to heal our injured soldiers but Lars will not. He will grow furious and lack sleep as more shelters are hit."

Kaleb sighed as he paced back and forth and rubbed his perfectly trimmed beard.

"How do you even know where the shelters are?" Questioned Ivar bitterly.

"I was always on tour in the navy and have been in Sweden many times. And unlike you brother, I actually visited Lars when he moved to Stockholm."

Ivar crossed his arms and shook his head.

Kaleb finally stopped and took a deep breath before he turned to look at Hans.

"Lead the way."

---

Stockholm Sweden

Monday

January 22nd 1844

Almost two weeks had gone by. Two long weeks.

Lars was shaking his leg uncontrollably as he tapped his pen at the desk and reviewed the food shortage number for the week.

They're food inside the storages had been going bad and turning into ashes causing their economy to collapse by double digits in less than two weeks.

He growled angrily as he crunched up the statistical paper and threw it to the trash can full of other crunched up and torn papers before he removed his glasses, sighed stressfully and rubbed his forehead.

"You're highness!" Exclaimed one of the co captains of the guards as he barged into his study chambers.

"Jesus Christ now what!" He exclaimed as he put his glasses on again and faced the guard.

"Forgive me your highness. But I come with news." Said the guard bowing apologetically.

"Let me guess. You did what I told you and found Captain Heindrick and his men yet? Or did you find the men responsible for burning our food!" Exclaimed Lars angrily.

"I'm afraid not, your highness... and we just got word from the county of Naka in Hellasgården.." said the guard.

"What happened said Lars slowly standing to his feet with widened eyes.

The captain swallowed nervously before he answered.

"Another food shelter has been hit-"

"DAMN IT!" Exclaimed Lars as he threw his study chair across the room angrily as some few guards standing beside the door moved away so it wouldn't hit them.

He paced back and forth angrily and stressfully before he fixed his hair and turned to the guards.

"Form a small army." Ordered Lars as he approached the guard. "Prepare them with all valuables and ready my horse. We leave immediately to Hellasgården."

"Lars?" Came the sudden and tender familiar voice as they all turned to the open chambered doors

Judith was entering with a worried expression as she noticed the study chair laid onto her floor and broken in pieces.

"W-what's going on?" She asked as she entered and all the guards bowed to to her, paying respect to their queen.

"Judith. There isn't much time but you must take our daughter and go to the bunkers" said Lars as he grabbed his wife's arms.

"Why? What happened?" She asked as she looked up at her husband worriedly.

"Look there's no time to explain. But another food shelter has been hit-"

"Another one!?" She gasped with widened eyes.

"Yes. And we need to go and capture the men doing this to us before it gets worse. So stay with our daughter and I'll be back I promise." Said Lars as he began to walk away.

"Wait Lars!" Called out Judith as Lars went to the coat hanger to retrieve his coat where the servants were waiting to help him put it on. "Lars there's a blizzard out there right now. You can't go out in this weather!"

"We'll be fine the blizzard will pass through soon. What's important now is that we try to catch up to them before they get far." Said Lars as they began to put the coat on him.

"What's important is that you stay with us! Me, your daughter. For Gods sake Lars your working yourself to death!" Argued Judith.

"We need to win this war, Judith." Replied Lars as he adjusted the coat on himself.

"What we need is you, Lars. My husband, our daughters father. You haven't even been spending time with Linnea anymore. I mean.. do you even care!?"

"Of course I care!." Exploded Lars. "Why do you think I'm doing all of this? It's not for me, it's to protect us! Our daughter, our future and our people. I need to save Stockholm-"

"I AM STOCKHOLM!" Exclaimed Judith so loudly that it made everyone inside the chamber silence and tense up. Even Lars. "I am it's queen! It's chosen ruler! Nothing happens without my final word!"

There was dead silence in the whole castle. Judith's words had echoed throughout the whole castle that it made even the kitchen staff seize their cooking.

Lars stood silently as he watched his wife who was tearing at him angrily yet with tears about to escape her eyes.

"Everyone leave. Now." She ordered as all the guards and castle staff immediately exited out of the chambers as quickly as they could before closing the giant doors behind them.

As soon as they were alone Judith shook her head and turned away, sobbing uncontrollably as she walked to the corner of the wall and fell to the floor as she hugged her knees and cried unto them.

Lars immediately rushed over next to his wife and tried to comfort her but she tried to push him away. But Lars continued to sooth her and hold her arms.

"I'm sorry, Judith. I stepped out of line. You are Queen of Stockholm and I have been a poor prince and a poor husband. Please forgive me, darling." Said Lars as he gently soothed her.

Judith looked up with swollen eyes and tears flowing down her cheeks as Lars gently wiped them away with his handkerchief.

"Oh Lars.. I'm s-so s-scared..." she whined out.

Lars sat next to her and hugged her tightly as she cried on his shoulder.

"Shh. It's okay darling. I am too.." said Lars as he held her and rubbed her shoulders and arms.

"What are we going to do.. all my people are depending on me and I feel.. s-so weak-"

"You are the strongest woman I know, Judith. And I know this all seems so frightening but we will get through it. I know it." He as they held one another.

"Lars... there's something I must tell you." She said gently.

"What is it darling?" He said.

"I'm pregnant."

Immediately Lars eyes widened as he looked at her with a surprised and almost anxious expression. He couldn't believe what he just heard.

"H-how.. how long-"

"I missed my bleeding last month. And I'm coming up on my second month and have felt no cramps. Just dizziness and tiredness. I went to visit our doctor who confirmed it to me as well." She said.

Lars could feel his whole world turning more than it was already as he looked at her with a blank expression.

"Are you upset.." she said.

"No! No of course not. I just.. this is surprising.." he said.

"A baby during a war.. I'm scared.. And I know the costs that come with it, Lars. But that is why I want to keep it a secret. Just between us and only a few we trust." She said.

"Yes. Of course. No one should know about this." He said as he grabbed her hands and rubbed them with his thumb gently before raising them and kissing them gently. "I promise we'll get through this."

"Just promise me one thing, Lars." Said Judith.

"Anything." He assured.

"Promise me you won't kill yourself." She said as Lars stared at her. "I need you. Linnea needs you."

"I swear my life to you my queen." He said as he gently kissed her.

"Now go. But please come back." She said as tears filled her eyes again.

Lars kissed her one last time and helped her up as they stood up on their feet. He walked towards the doors. He looked over to her one time before he smiled and left.

He let out a scared and stressful sigh as he rubbed his forehead. Now he had three family members and a whole kingdom to protect.

"Your highness?" Asked one of the captains as he approached Lars.

"Let's go." He said quickly as he marched past him as he adjusted the arm gloves on himself and walked through the castle and out to the cold blizzard.

His face determined to finish it once and for all.

---

Hellasgården

Hans and the rest of the party had made themselves at home by making camp at Hellasgården. The once beautiful forest that stood with dozens of roses was covered in pure white snow.

It was a place where many visiting countries often visited. A high place for tourism and to enjoy time at. But during these times it was not.

Everything was cold and frozen. Even the lake had frozen as the winter continued to be dreadful to many in Scandinavia.

Hans, Hanna and his brothers along with Kristoff, Cassandra and the shield maidens had all surrounded the fire that was being threatened to be put out due to the cruel wind.

Even Damien has joined as he sat next to Kristoff.

No one was talking. It was just a waiting game. For two weeks they've been camping in the garden waiting for Lars to arrive.

They had just burnt the final food storage which happened to me only meters away from Hellasgården.

Kristoff sighed boringly as he blew hot air to his hands to warm himself up.

There was nothing to do except train, rest, eat and train some more. It was boring and they all felt useless.

Although Kristoff felt he learned a lot in the last two weeks training with Damien and learning to duel with him.

Franz reached for his chapped lips as he ran his fingers softly. His lips had chapped badly and the blood had dried up.

"Bloody winter.." Muttered Franz grudgingly. "Anyone have any medicine for chapped lips?"

All of them shook their head boringly.

"I can tell you how to fix that." Said Hans who had been fashioning sticks together to pass time.

Franz rises a brow up as he looked at Hans. "Really? How?"

"You pick up one of those horse apples on the trail. Rub it around your lips." Said Hans as he gestured his hand and moved it around in front of his lips.

Franz furrowed his brows as he continued touching his chapped lips. "Seems like an odd cure.."

"It won't cure them. But it'll sure keep you from licking them." Said Hans with a small smirk in the corner of his lips as he continued fashioning the sticks.

Franz looked at Hans again with a questionable expression. Several around the large circle began to chuckle softly. Even Kristoff couldn't help but do the same.

"On your feet!" Announced Kaleb who stepped forward. "Everyone on your feet now!"

Immediately everyone rose to their feet and went to the small fort they had created where they can't be seen.

"What is it Kaleb?" Whispered Björn.

"Shh. Look." Said Kaleb as he signaled to the other side of the forest where the trail led.

There were several horsemen going up the trail towards the burnt food storage. And from far away that's when they saw him.

"It's him. It's Lars." Breathed out Erik as he quickly loaded his musket.

"All right let's get this over with." Said Rudi who was about to jump from the fort.

"Wait." Said Kaleb firmly as he held his brother back.

"Why?" Argued Rudi.

"Yeah why." Said Ivar firmly who was eager to attack.

"It might be an ambush. So let's wait this out." Said Kaleb as they truene back to look at Lars and his men.

Kristoff was trying to control his breathing and calm his nerves as he grabbed the handle of the axe tightly.

Damien noticed it and went up to him as he put his hands on Kristoffs broad shoulders.

"You can do this, okay?" Said Damien as Kristoff breathed in again and slowly nodded.

Hanna was going up to her shield maidens one by one and giving each one a kiss on the cheek and a hug.

Much to Kristoffs surprise the shield maidens seemed less nervous then the men. Especially him.

Hans on the other hand had never once turned his gaze and focus from Lars. He was stalking him like a wolf hidden in the woods.

Kaleb turned around to see what they could o in the meantime. Something that would throw Lars completely out of focus.

Then something came to his mind as he turned to look at the injured and barely living Swedish soldiers. All of whom were being held captive for two weeks now.

"I have a plan."

---

All of their guard was up when they finally arrived to Hellasgården. Waiting to hear any kind of sudden movement but nothing came. Just the wind.

Lars led the way as they patrolled for any sign of unwelcomed visitors and tyrants. He jumped off his horse and walked towards the food shelter that was simply ashes at this point.

He bent down and slowly ran his fingers through the still warm pieces of firewood before he brought them up to his view and began crumbling it into little pieces.

He growled angrily as he watched the small pieces be carried away by the cold wind.

"You're highness." Came the sudden declare from one of the co captain as he came up behind Lars. "Over there."

Lars eyes furrowed when he followed the co captains pointed indexed finger where there stood a man sitting up and holding a spear as if he was a guard himself of sorts.

Lars furrowed his brows in confusion.

"Come on." Said Lars as he wasted no time and jumped back on top of his horse before gently kicking his side to go onward.

And so the horse did as other captains with horses and many men followed quickly behind. Lars and three other captains slowly approached the man with the spear.

But the closer they got they noticed that the man was dead. He was without uniform and his skin was pale and his side had the wounds of an arrow that struck him. And for some odd reason he died in that same position trying to keep his stand.

Lars furrowed his brows as he pulled out his ace and gently tapped the spear the deceased man was holding before it lost him to ability to stand tall as he came crashing down lifeless to the ground.

And then suddenly..

HORNNN!

Lars and his men turned to the direction of the familiar horn and that's when he noticed a familiar face smirking at him devilishly.

Ivar one of his youngest brothers had sent a signal. Lars rolled his eyes as suddenly a large group of men came from out of the snow covered forest where they had been hiding.

A large group of Arendellian soldiers and Arendellian soldiers and Southern Isles soldiers all came out and lined up respectfully to each side.

And then Lars brows furrowed when he saw all of his brothers come out of the forest to stand in the middle of the two kingdoms. Along side even his sister and her warriors.

Of course it was them all along. He thought to himself.

But then his eyes slightly widened when he saw Hans. His youngest brother standing in between Björn and Erik.

His stare was cold and fixed on Lars. He looked calm yet menacing at the same time. This was the most dangerous Lars ever saw Hans look.

All of Lars men including him glared to the army as they glared back. There were no words said. No sudden movement.

Just the cold wind.

---

The Southern Isles

One of the servants was walking by the great hall when he noticed the king standing in front of the large window as he stared out to the cold blizzard.

But this time he was not pondering. He wasn't executing a plan in his mind or thinking of anything particular.

His whole demeanor looked frozen and tense. The hands behind his back were slightly shaking too.

"King Soren?" Asked the servant as he slowly approached the king worriedly.

But Soren did not answer. He didn't even turn around. His eyes were fixed to the blizzard as if his kind was completely blank at the moment.

"You're majesty are you all right?" Asked the servant once more.

But the king could not hear anything. Everything was silent around him. His heart beating fast and his hands slightly still shaking.

And the pupils in his blue eyes were dilated as he let out a nervous breath. He could feel something was wrong..

---

Hellasgården War

There was terror and loud screams of war as the sounds of shields, spears and spears filled the air.

All of the Swedish soldiers had lined up and were trying to fight off the Arendellians and the Southern Isles armies.

But the two allied kingdoms held their ground as they pushed shield against shield while the collision of blades continued forward. And in the front of the the two kingdoms were the Westergaard brothers who were leading the charge at the very front. Hans included.

The battle had already gone over forty minutes. Many were sweating and starting to get covered in blood due to the amount of bloodshed being spilled.

Kristoff stood inbetween Damien and Hans as he pushed his shield against the Swedish shields while the yelling continued.

A Swedish soldier came charging to Hans and Björn but Hans was quick and moved to the side before colliding his shield against the back of the head of the Swedish soldier which sent him falling to the ground.

He held the shield on the soldiers neck as he struggled to breath and jump up. Hans looked up to look around where he saw Kristoff kick a soldier before striking him with an axe.

Then he looked to his left where he saw his sister hold her own with two men before stabbed each of them.

Then he looked up again to see where Lars was within the large crowd in front of him but he could not see him.

Hans growled and stabbed the men he was holding down twice into the Swedish solders stomach before rising to his feet again as the battle raged on.

"Keep the shield wall!" Yelled Lars as he moved his messy hair out of the way and dodged to the side from two charging Southern Isles soldier before striking them down with the two axes he held in his hand.

Hanna fenced off many strikes from a Swedish soldier as used her shield better than any soldier. She collided her shield against the man's face and then pierced her sword through his heart as she growled.

One of her shield maidens beside her got struck by an arrow on her leg as she fell to the ground. Hanna was about to reach for her when suddenly a shield came between her.

On the other side of the shield was a Swedish soldier who tried striking Hanna when she was helping her warrior.

And it was Kaleb her older brother who stopped the Swedish solder. He looked at Hanna with a focused stare and then back at the Swedish soldier before pushing him backwards until he fell on his feet.

Kaleb shouted angrily a cry war and then stabbed the soldier to his death. Hanna quickly returned to the battle and began to fight again.

Cassandra who had been close by ducked a spear that was heading to her at full speed and rolled frontwards before slashing her sword through a soldiers legs as they came clean off.

The soldier cried in agony as Cassandra rose to her feet and ran past him as she pulled the injured shield maiden off from the battlefield.

Franz the third oldest was defending himself with his shield as a Swedish soldier tried to cut him until Ivar suddenly came behind the Swedish soldier with a large dagger as he sliced the soldiers throat.

He fell to his knees trying to grab ahold of his throat until a axe pierced through his back and instantly killed him.

Ivar began to chuckle devilishly as he screamed again and began to attack more Swedes as Franz sighed and rolled his eyes before he too began to engage in battle again.

Hans had been pushing several solders with his shield and stabbing many of them when he finally saw his brother Lars standing behind the Swedish army.

Two more men made it through past the shield wall and came charging at Lars. One of them being Arendellian but he was quick to kill both of them.

When Lars rose to his feet again his eyes met Hans who was staring at him coldly with his emerald eyes glowing.

Both brothers followed each other slowly as they stared at each other with anger. Only the shield walls separating the two of them and none of them saying a word as the armies continued to battle with one another.

Lars stopped walking when he reached the end of the shield wall and turned to the captain of his army as he gave him tap on his chest. A signal.

The captain of the army blew his horn loudly making Hans eyes widen. Almost all of the Swedish soldiers who were holding the shield wall fell back and stood next to Lars in a charging position as hand raised his axe to sky slowly.

Hans knew exactly what they were going to do. "BRACE! BRACE! BE READY! STAY ON YOUR FEET!" Exclaimed Hans as he ran down the line of the shield wall.

"GO!" Exclaimed Lars as he brought his axe down.

YAHHHH!

The Swedish solders exclaimed in union as they came charging towards the Arendellian and Southern Isles armies.

It didn't give the two armies enough time to process what Hans had been shouting at them and soon thereafter they found themselves being charged by the Swedish soldiers at full speed as they knocked them down to the ground.

The shield wall had broken apart and Kristoff was among them who fell backwards while his axe and shield were knocked out of his hands.

Hans charged through the multitude as he shoved them with his shield violently before he reached Kristoff who was having another shell shocked moment as he stared at everyone.

"Get up!" Exclaimed Hans as he shielded Kristoff and landed his sword in a man's abdomen and then another piercing him through the stomach. "Get up!"

Damien had also joined Hans side and he too was shielding Kristoff to give him more time to rise to his feet.

Kristoff quickly snapped out of his shell shocked moment and reached for his axe. He was on his knees when a soldier came charging at him with a sword over his head.

But Kristoff quickly countered the sword and drove his axe to the man's knees, breaking them completely and then to his side.

Kristoff rose to his feet and repeated the same encounter, this time throwing him over to the ground before driving his axe at the men's chest.

Kristoff turned around where Damien was staring while out of breathe. Damien gave Kristoff a reassuring nod before he drove his sword to a soldier who was trying to attack him by surprise.

And now with the shield walls broken it was every man for himself and the Swedish soldiers were falling by the bloodshed.

Kaleb was powering through the soldiers with his powerful strength while yelling furiously. Almost berserk like.

But Hans was the one going forward. His whole demeanor had become furious and he had grown tired of Lars games. He had begun moving forward to where the Swedish soldiers were fighting and he was doing it while killing all the soldiers who had approached him.

First he drove his shield hard into a soldiers chest which not only sent the soldier crying but also broke his shield in the process.

Hans wasted no time as he threw the broken shield to the ground and continued to move forward while countering every attack at him and killing them in the process.

Lars was shouting orders at his soldiers and then his eyes widened when he saw Hans was going through his men at full speed.

Lars eyes widened larger as he began to slowly fall back. But Hans did not stop. He struck three approaching soldiers before driving his sword into each of them.

Björn quickly struck his shield against a sprinting Swedish soldier that was coming right at him across his head and into the air with his shield.

Another tried sneaking up on him but Björn countered and drove his shield into the man's face. He rose to his feet when he saw Hans leading the area.

"I'm with you brother!" Exclaimed Björn as he threw the axe through the air before it landed at another Swedish soldiers chest.

Hans was so smooth with the sword that he would punch, elbow and strike with his sword. This is he did with several others who were trying to stop him.

He made it past four of them and his eyes were still glowing emerald as he slaughtered the fourth man too lol up he at Lars who was growing nervous at the amount of number of people that were falling.

An Arendellian tried charging at him but Lars quickly stabbed him. And then from out of nowhere a shield maiden had jumped from behind and knocked down Lars to his feet.

She yelled as she went to jab her shield at him but Lars quickly moved away and stood up his feet. The shield maidens went after him again but Lars quickly countered and drove the axe at the shield maidens body several times as she yelped and fell to the ground dead.

Lars quickly looked up to see that his sister Hanna was standing a far off to the side where she had just witnessed him kill one of her warriors.

Her stare was much like Hans in that very moment. Angry and her eyes glowing emerald too.

Björn quickly stepped aside from a charging soldier before he swung his shield at the man and then continued to beat the man down with the shield on his head repeatedly before he was finally dead.

Then he quickly grabbed his axe that had fallen to the ground before running to catch up to his brother.

"HANS!"

Hans was already way ahead as he flicked away a Swedish soldier and his spear with his sword.

The soldier tried piercing him but Hans grabbed the edge of the spear quickly with one hand and lifted it up to block another spear coming down at him.

Then he struck both of them dead with his sword as they fell to the ground. Another soldier with a spear took the back of the spear to knock him out but Hans quickly lifted his arm above his head to block it before striking him down and killing him too.

Another soldier charged at him with an axe and shield in hand. He went to strike Hans head but Hans was quick to duck and grab his arm as he sent him tripping forward and letting go of his axe which Hans now possessed in his hands.

Hans looked up to see Lars staring at him with frightening eyes and only standing ten feet away from them as he was starting to back up.

Hans lifted the axe over his head and threw it at him with power and no hesitation. Lars quickly ran away as fast as he could with other soldiers follwing behind to cover him as he disappeared into the crowd.

A Swedish solder with an axe took advantage while Hans was distracted and tackled him to the ground to give Lars more time to escape. But Björn who was running behind quickly tackled the Swedish soldier down to the ground with power before striking the axe into his stomach as he died.

"RETREAT!"

Came the shouts from the surviving Swedish soldiers as they ran away.

"FOLLOW PRINCE LARS!"

Hans quickly rose to his feet. His eyes still fixed at where the axe had gone. He walked forward to a man laying on his side and struggling for breath with an axe that had gone into his chest. The same axe Hans had thrown.

Hans rolled over the man with his foot. He had Lars brown hair, his comb over, his glasses and even his clothes but at last...

It was not Lars.

Hans brows furrowed when he saw it wasn't Lars. Even Björn who was walking from behind could tell it was not their brother, even if he did look a lot like him.

They both heard a horse neigh from afar off and that's when they spotted their brother Lars running back to his horse where he was quickly helped up.

Hans eyes were glowing of emerald and anger when he realized what just happened. Lars had used a decoyed, a soldier to purposely look like him so he can have time to distract his brothers while he retreated.

He had outsmarted them.

Lars quickly grabbed a hold of the reigns before looking back to his brothers and sister who were all approaching where Hans and Björn stood.

He stared at Hans with a angry and anxious stare as Hans stared angrily in return.

"Yah!" He said as he slapped the reigns on the horse before it took off in retreat as all of the Swedish soldiers followed behind.

"He got away.." Sighed Franz angrily as he looked at Kaleb who was also fuming in anger before he turned around and marched off as his brothers followed behind.

Damien and Kristoff were approaching hans and Björn, both of them out of breath and also covered in bloodshed from the battle.

"You fought well today, Kristoff." Said Björn who was hunched over trying to catch his breath as he put his arm on Kristoffs shoulder.

"Thank you." Nodded Kristoff also trying to catch his breath as Hans turned to look at him.

"You have a lot to learn." Said Hans with seriousness to him before he marched away as Björn and Kristoff watched him go away.

"Let's go." Said Björn slapping Kristoffs chest as he followed Hans behind.

Kristoff breathed in heavily and stressfully before he too followed behind and walked through the fallen soldiers that laid dead on the ground.

Hanna was kneeled down over her fallen shield maiden Lars had killed as she gently closed her dead eyes.

She then looked up to where Lars had run away too and breathed angrily.