**Chapter 7: The Introduction to Hans**

As Iduna walked through the cold stone corridors of Westergaard Castle, the flickering torches casting eerie shadows on the walls, she couldn't shake off the feeling that she was being watched. Her brown braided hair, done up in a bun, was a testament to her dignity, despite the ordeal she had faced. The castle's grandeur was imposing, but Iduna's thoughts were focused on her own recovery and the mysterious circumstances that had brought her to this place. She had heard whispers of the royal family's dynamics, of King Westergaard's harsh rule and his treatment of his own family members. Iduna had caught glimpses of the king's cold demeanor, and she wondered what lay beneath his gruff exterior. The sound of footsteps echoed down the corridor, and Iduna turned to see a servant approaching her. "Your Majesty, Queen Maren requests your presence in the royal quarters," he said, bowing his head. Iduna followed the servant, her heart beating slightly faster. What did Queen Maren want to discuss with her? She had been a guest at the castle for only a short time, but she had already sensed the complex web of relationships and alliances within the royal family. As they entered the queen's chambers, Iduna was greeted by Queen Maren herself. The queen's expression was kind, but her eyes betrayed a hint of concern. "Iduna, I'm glad you're feeling better," she said. "I wanted to speak with you about your stay here at the castle." Iduna nodded, taking a seat in the chair indicated by the queen. "I'm grateful for your hospitality, Your Majesty," she said. "But I must admit, I'm still trying to understand the circumstances of my arrival here." Queen Maren nodded sympathetically. "I know it must be difficult for you to adjust to life here at the castle. But I assure you, we will do everything in our power to make your stay as comfortable as possible." The conversation was interrupted by a knock at the door. "Enter," Queen Maren called out. A servant entered, bowing his head. "Your Majesty, Prince Hans has been injured by his brothers, Rudi and Runo, and his father, the king. He's in a bad state." Iduna's eyes widened in shock. She had heard rumors of King Westergaard's cruelty, but she had never imagined it would extend to his own son. "What can I do to help?" she asked. Queen Maren looked at her, her eyes pleading. "He needs care and attention. Would you be willing to help him, Iduna?" Iduna nodded, her heart filled with compassion. She would do everything she could to help Prince Hans, even if it meant putting herself in an uncomfortable situation. As she followed the servant to Prince Hans's room, Iduna couldn't help but think of her own daughters, Elsa and Anna. She had to protect this young prince from his family's abuse, just as she would protect her own children. When she arrived at Prince Hans's room, Iduna was taken aback by his condition. He was battered and bruised, his body covered in cuts and bruises. She approached him, her heart filled with sorrow. "I'll do everything I can to help you," she said. The servant nodded, his eyes grateful. "Thank you, Your Majesty. Queen Maren will be grateful too." As Iduna tended to Prince Hans's wounds, she noticed that he was unconscious. She would have to give him a sponge bath, as Queen Maren had requested. With the servant's help, Iduna carefully bathed Prince Hans, her hands gentle as she worked. As she worked, Iduna caught glimpses of Prince Lars, who was watching her with a mixture of curiosity and concern. She smiled weakly at him, grateful for his presence. With the sponge bath complete, Iduna dressed Prince Hans in clean clothes, her hands moving with a quiet efficiency. As she finished, Queen Maren entered the room, her eyes filled with gratitude. "Thank you, Iduna," she said. "You've done a wonderful job. I don't know what we would have done without your help." Iduna smiled, her heart filled with compassion. She had found a new purpose in this strange and unfamiliar place. She would protect Prince Hans from his family's abuse, no matter what it took. And she would do it with the same love and devotion she would give to her own children.