Chapter 5: Anna's Arrival

The sun was setting over the Southern Isles, casting a golden glow over the dark and foreboding landscape. The air was thick with the smell of smoke and ash, a constant reminder of the kingdom's struggles. It was a place where hope was a luxury few could afford, and despair seemed to cling to every stone. In a grand, high-ceilinged room, Lars, the third in line to the throne, sat nervously, fidgeting with his hands. He had made a difficult decision, one that could potentially change the fate of his brother, Hans. He had sent for Anna, the queen of Arendelle, hoping that she could help Hans, who had been spiraling out of control. Lars had heard stories about Anna's kindness and compassion, and he knew that she was the only one who could reach Hans. He had tried everything to help his brother, but nothing seemed to work. Hans's mental state had deteriorated to the point where he had to be restrained to a bed, a shadow of his former self. As he waited for Anna's arrival, Lars couldn't help but think about the state of his family. His father, King Westergaard, was a harsh and brutal ruler, who taxed his people heavily and crushed any dissent. Lars's brothers, all 12 of them, were equally cruel and arrogant, except for Caleb, who was the crown prince and possibly even more ruthless. The door opened, and a servant announced Anna's arrival. Lars stood up, his heart racing with anticipation. Anna walked in, her expression stern, her eyes narrowing as she scanned the room. She was dressed in a long, flowing gown, her hair pulled back in a tight braid. "Your Highness," Lars said, bowing low. "Thank you for coming." Anna nodded curtly, her eyes never leaving Lars's face. "I didn't come for you, Prince Lars," she said. "I came for Hans. What happened to him?" Lars took a deep breath, trying to explain the situation. "He's...he's not well," he said. "He's been struggling with his mental health, and we've tried everything to help him, but nothing seems to work. He's become violent, and we had to restrain him to a bed." Anna's expression softened slightly, but her voice remained firm. "I see," she said. "And you think I can help him?" Lars nodded, his eyes pleading. "You're the only one who can, Anna. You've known him for a long time, and you've seen the good in him. I know he's hurt you, but I implore you, please help him." Anna sighed, her shoulders sagging under the weight of her responsibilities. "I'll do it," she said finally, "but not for Hans's sake. I'll do it for you, Lars, and for the sake of our friendship." Lars smiled, relief washing over him. "Thank you, Anna," he said, his voice filled with gratitude. As they walked to the room where Hans was being held, Anna's expression turned grim. She had not forgiven Hans for his betrayal, and she wasn't sure if she ever would. But she was willing to try and help him, for Lars's sake, and for the sake of their friendship. When they arrived at the room, Anna was taken aback by Hans's condition. He was restrained to a bed, his eyes sunken, his skin pale and clammy. He looked like a shadow of his former self, a man consumed by his own demons. Anna's heart went out to him, but she was determined not to let her emotions get the better of her. She would help Hans, but she would do it on her own terms, and she would not be swayed by his charm or his good looks. She was here to help him, not to forgive him. As she looked at Hans, Anna felt a mix of emotions: anger, pity, and concern. She knew that she had a long road ahead of her, but she was determined to help Hans, no matter what it took. She was ready to face the challenges that lay ahead, and to help Hans find his way back to sanity.