**Chapter 5: A Glimmer of Hope**

As Iduna walked alongside Elara, Luna, and Kael, the darkness of the night began to recede, replaced by a glimmer of hope. The stars above twinkled like diamonds, and the sound of the waves crashing against the shore created a soothing melody that calmed her frazzled nerves. The journey to King Westergaard's court had begun, and Iduna felt a sense of determination rising within her. She would find a way back home, no matter what lay ahead. The group traversed the sandy beach, their footsteps quiet on the shore. Kael led the way, his eyes scanning the terrain as he navigated through the darkness. Iduna stumbled occasionally, her legs still weak from the ordeal, but Elara and Luna were always there to catch her, their hands grasping hers to steady her. As they walked, Iduna's thoughts turned to her family, her daughters Elsa and Anna, and the life she had left behind. She wondered what they would be thinking, whether they had given up hope of finding her. The pain of being separated from them was still raw, and Iduna's heart ached with every step. The hours passed slowly, the only sound the crunch of sand beneath their feet and the occasional cry of a night bird. Iduna's eyes began to droop, her exhaustion catching up with her, but Elara and Luna kept her going, their gentle chatter and words of encouragement spurring her on. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, the first light of dawn began to creep over the horizon. The sky turned pink and orange, casting a warm glow over the landscape. Iduna's eyes widened as she saw the outline of a small village in the distance, the thatched roofs of the huts peeking out from behind a cluster of trees. "We're almost there," Kael said, his voice low and gravelly. "King Westergaard's court is just a short distance from here." Iduna's heart quickened with excitement. She was one step closer to finding help, to regaining her memories and finding her way back home. The group walked in silence, their footsteps quiet on the sandy path that led to the village. As they entered the village, Iduna saw that it was bustling with activity. People went about their daily business, their faces curious as they watched the group pass by. Kael led them to a large hut, the door guarded by two imposing men who eyed Iduna and her companions warily. "Wait here," Kael said, his voice low. "I'll announce your arrival." Iduna nodded, her heart pounding with anticipation. She had no idea what to expect, but she was ready to face whatever lay ahead. Kael disappeared into the hut, leaving Iduna, Elara, and Luna to wait. The minutes ticked by slowly, Iduna's anxiety growing with every passing moment. She wondered what King Westergaard would be like, whether he would be able to help her. The questions swirled in her mind, but she pushed them aside, focusing on the present moment. Finally, Kael emerged from the hut, his face expressionless. "The King will see you now," he said, his voice low. Iduna took a deep breath, steeling herself for what lay ahead. She followed Kael into the hut, her heart pounding with anticipation. As they entered the throne room, Iduna's eyes widened in surprise. King Westergaard sat on his throne, his eyes piercing as he gazed at her. "Welcome, traveler," he said, his voice deep and resonant. "I see you're in need of help. Tell me, who are you, and what brings you to my court?" Iduna hesitated, unsure of how much to reveal. But something about King Westergaard's kind eyes put her at ease, and she began to tell her story, the words spilling out in a rush as she recounted her journey from Arendelle to the Southern Isles. The King's expression changed from curiosity to surprise, and Iduna saw a glimmer of recognition in his eyes. "You're the Queen of Arendelle," he said, his voice filled with certainty. "I've heard of your... situation. I'm here to help you, Your Majesty." Iduna's heart swelled with gratitude. She had found an ally, a friend in this foreign land. And with King Westergaard's help, she knew she would find a way back home.