Chapter 4: A Glimmer of Hope

The days passed slowly as Lars waited anxiously for a response from Arendelle. He had sent a messenger with a letter explaining Hans's condition and his hopes that Anna would come to help her former love. Lars knew that Anna had every reason to hate Hans, but he also knew that she was a kind and compassionate person who would not turn her back on someone in need. As he waited, Lars couldn't help but think about the state of the Southern Isles. His father, King Westergard, was a harsh and unforgiving ruler, feared by his subjects for his brutal tactics. The streets were filled with poverty and despair, and the people lived in constant fear of the king's men. The Southern Isles were a place where only the strongest survived, and the weak were trampled. Lars's brothers, all of them, were cut from the same cloth as their father. They were cruel and arrogant, with no regard for the welfare of their subjects. Caleb, the crown prince, was just as ruthless as their father, using violence to get what he wanted, and feared by all who knew him. Rudi and Runo, who were fifth in line, were just as bad, spoiled and arrogant, with no regard for anyone but themselves. In contrast, Arendelle was a beacon of hope and happiness. Elsa, the queen, had brought peace and prosperity to the kingdom, and her sister Anna was a shining example of her kindness and compassion. As Lars waited for a response from Anna, he couldn't help but think about the contrast between the two kingdoms. While the Southern Isles were dark and foreboding, Arendelle was a place of light and joy. Finally, after several days, the messenger returned with a response from Anna. Lars's heart sank as he read the letter. Anna had agreed to come to the Southern Isles, but it was clear that she was only doing so out of a sense of duty and loyalty to Elsa. Lars knew that he couldn't blame Anna for her reluctance. Hans had hurt her deeply, and it was only natural that she would feel wary of him. With a heavy heart, Lars set out to make arrangements for Anna's visit. He knew that it wouldn't be easy, but he was willing to try anything to save his brother from himself. As he made his way to the room where Hans was being held, Lars couldn't help but feel a sense of trepidation. What would Anna think of Hans's condition? Would she be able to help him, or would she turn her back on him? When he arrived at the room, Lars found Hans lying on the bed, his eyes fixed on the ceiling. He looked up as Lars entered, and for a moment, Lars saw a glimmer of the old Hans. But it was just a fleeting moment, and soon Hans's eyes clouded over again. Lars sighed, his heart heavy with worry. He knew that he had made the right decision in calling for Anna, but he couldn't shake the feeling that it might already be too late. The room was dimly lit, with only a single candle casting a faint glow. The air was thick with the scent of sweat and despair. Lars approached the bed, his footsteps quiet on the stone floor. Hans's wrists were bound to the bedpost with thick leather straps, and his ankles were similarly restrained. Lars's heart ached as he looked at his brother, reduced to a mere shadow of his former self. "Anna will be here soon, Hans," Lars said softly, trying to keep his voice steady. "She's coming to help you." But Hans just stared at him, his eyes empty and unresponsive. Lars knew that he had to stay positive, to hold on to the hope that Anna could save Hans from himself. He took a deep breath and tried to focus on the future, on the possibility of redemption and recovery.