**Chapter 2: Arrival in the Southern Isles**

The ship docked at the Southern Isles' port, and Hans was taken to the palace, his mind reeling with thoughts of his failed coup in Arendelle. As they walked through the palace gates, Hans caught a glimpse of the sprawling complex, with its stone walls and Gothic spires. The air was thick with the smell of saltwater and the sound of seagulls filled the air. The cold, grey stone seemed to absorb the little sunlight there was, casting a gloomy shadow over the entire scene. As they entered the palace, Hans was greeted by his brother Lars, who looked concerned about Hans' mental state. "Hans, I'm glad you're back," Lars said, his voice cautious. "Father will want to see you." Hans nodded, feeling a sense of trepidation. He knew that his father, King Westergaard, would not be happy to see him. The palace corridors were dimly lit, with only a few torches flickering to light the way. The walls were adorned with cobweb-covered portraits of Hans' ancestors, their stern faces seeming to watch him as he passed. As they walked to the throne room, Hans could feel the weight of his father's disapproval bearing down on him. The throne room was cold and imposing, with high ceilings and stone walls that seemed to absorb the light. King Westergaard sat on his throne, his face stern and unforgiving. "So, Hans, you're back," the king said, his voice dripping with disdain. "I see you've learned from your mistakes. You're a failure, just like I always thought you would be." Hans felt a surge of anger at his father's words, but he knew better than to speak out. He bowed his head, feeling a sense of shame and defeat. King Westergaard's eyes seemed to bore into his soul, searching for any sign of weakness. Over the next few days, Hans' mental state began to deteriorate rapidly. He became paranoid and agitated, unable to sleep or eat. He started to experience hallucinations, and he became convinced that everyone was out to get him. His brothers, Rudi and Runo, mocked him and made his situation worse, and Hans felt like he was losing his grip on reality. Lars, who had always been concerned about Hans' well-being, decided to take drastic action. He ordered Hans to be placed in restraints on a bed in a secluded room, hoping to protect him from himself and others. The room was small and Spartan, with only a single window that let in a sliver of light. Hans was placed on a narrow bed, his wrists and ankles bound by heavy leather restraints. He felt a sense of despair wash over him as he realized he was trapped. As the days passed, Hans' condition worsened. He became catatonic, unable to move or speak. His skin was pale and clammy, and his eyes sunken. Lars knew he had to act fast, or risk losing his brother forever. Lars sat down at his desk and wrote a letter to Anna, Hans' ex-fiancée. He explained the situation, and asked for her help in caring for Hans. Anna had always been kind and compassionate, and Lars hoped she might be able to reach Hans, even when he seemed lost to himself. The letter was sent, and Lars could only hope that Anna would receive it, and come to help her brother. As he waited, he couldn't help but feel a sense of unease. What if Anna couldn't help Hans? What if he was too far gone? The thought sent a shiver down Lars' spine. He knew that he had to do everything in his power to help Hans, and he was willing to try anything. As he sat there, waiting for a response to his letter, Lars couldn't help but wonder what the future held for his brother, and for the Southern Isles. Lars decided to send one of his trusted men to Arendelle to hand-deliver the letter to Anna and bring her back to the Southern Isles. He chose a man named Erik, who was known for his discretion and loyalty. "Erik, I need you to take a letter to Anna, Hans' ex-fiancée," Lars said, handing Erik the letter. "She's the only one who might be able to help him now." Erik nodded, taking the letter. "I'll make sure it gets to her, Your Highness," he said. As Erik set off for Arendelle, Lars couldn't help but feel a sense of hope. Maybe, just maybe, Anna could help Hans, and bring him back from the brink of madness. The Southern Isles, with its dark and foreboding atmosphere, seemed to be holding its breath, waiting to see what would happen next. The fate of Hans, and the future of the kingdom, hung in the balance. The cold, grey stone of the palace seemed to absorb the little sunlight there was, casting a gloomy shadow over the entire scene. The air was thick with tension, and the sound of silence was oppressive. But Lars held onto hope, a glimmer of light in the darkness. He knew that Anna would do everything in her power to help Hans, and he was willing to try anything to save his brother. As the hours ticked by, Lars couldn't help but wonder what the future held for Hans, and for the Southern Isles. Would Anna be able to help Hans, or would it be too late? Only time would tell.