The Commandant's Escape

In 1814, Fredrikstad Fortress was put to a severe test. Swedish forces, led by General Admiral Johan von Puke, had laid their plans. The Commandant of the fortress, Niels Christian Hals, received orders to take command. That same summer, the Swedes lay outside Strömstad with their fleet. On July 28, they set sail for Hvaler, and without resistance, they arrived at Kråkerøy on August 3. The Swedes landed in three different places with a force of 6,000 men. In the immediate vicinity of the Old Town, a small force was put ashore. Before attacking, Von Puke sent a request to Hals, asking that the fortress be surrendered to King Charles XIII of Sweden. Hals gave a categorical no and prepared for battle. That evening, on August 3, the Swedes opened fire. The city was bombarded with bullets and grenades, but the fortress fought back and kept the Swedes at a distance for a while. Early on the morning of August 4, the Swedes continued the bombardment, and shortly after, a white parliamentary flag was raised. Hals asked to capitulate, and an hour and a half later, the agreement on the fortress's surrender was signed. Commandant Niels Christian Hals was taken prisoner by the Swedes. Now, help the Commandant escape from Von Puke's men! You have two hours before the Swedes discover and imprison you! Hals has managed to sneak out and needs your help to find the secret exit, step by step. For each puzzle you solve, you get one letter. Find the 19-letter solution word, and you will find the way out to freedom!