Harold, torn by doubt, finally yielded. He could not resist Nils’ pressure, backed by papal authority and his own thirst to prove his piety to Christendom.
But Nils, ever perceptive, knew a hidden truth: Queen Sophia and Princess Astrid were one and the same. This secret became his weapon, for a reunion between brother and sister threatened to unravel his carefully woven schemes.
*"I must lead this campaign myself,"* Nils whispered, staring at his reflection in a silver goblet. *"My presence will inspire the troops and ensure victory."* But in his heart, another voice spoke—cold and ruthless: *"I must conquer Kolvan and destroy Astrid-Sophia. This wild land will be my stepping stone to absolute power over Denmark. Nothing will stop me."*
Thus, war—fueled by greed and lies—cast its shadow over two kingdoms and two hearts divided by betrayal.
Under the cloak of darkness, while the townsfolk slept, the treacherous Nils unleashed his army upon Kolvan. Flames lit the sky; screams of terror and the clash of steel filled the once-peaceful streets. Though caught off guard, Kolvan fought fiercely—but the odds were hopeless.
Amid the chaos, surrounded by loyal guards, Sophia battled with desperate fury. Each sword stroke echoed the pain in her heart as she witnessed her people’s slaughter. Yet even in this darkest hour, she did not lose hope.
*"We must break through!"* she cried, dodging a treacherous blow. *"All is not lost!"*
A few loyal warriors carved a path through enemy ranks. Seizing the moment, the queen fled with her defenders into the night.
The pursuit was relentless, but the cover of darkness and knowledge of secret marshland trails allowed them to escape. Wounded but unbroken, they vanished into the dense forests, leaving behind a burning Kolvan.
Hope flickered in the warrior queen’s heart like a lamp before an icon. The battle was lost, but the war was not over. As long as she lived, Kolvan had a chance.
Astrid—now Sophia—fled the burning Kolvan with only a loyal page and two brave squires. They headed east, toward Slavic lands, seeking refuge. The journey was grueling: scorching heat gave way to torrential rains, turning roads to mud. They fought wild beasts and bandits alike. Hunger and exhaustion tested their resolve, but Sophia refused to yield. In her heart burned the determination to reclaim her kingdom.