**Chapter 4: The Royal Court**

As Iduna regained consciousness, King Westergaard's expression transformed from curiosity to calculation. His eyes narrowed, and he leaned forward, his voice taking on a more sinister tone. "Queen Iduna, I must admit, I was surprised to learn of your identity. I had not expected to find the Queen of Arendelle washed up on my shores." Iduna's eyes widened as she realized the implications of being discovered by a foreign king. She tried to sit up, but a wave of dizziness washed over her, forcing her back onto the bed. King Westergaard's gaze lingered on her, and Iduna could sense the wheels turning in his mind. "I'm afraid I don't understand what you mean, Your Majesty," Iduna said, trying to keep her tone neutral. King Westergaard's expression turned cold. "Oh, I think you do, Queen Iduna. You see, I have... interests in Arendelle, and having you here could be... useful. Your presence could provide me with leverage, a pawn in my games of power." Iduna's heart sank at the king's words. She knew that she had to tread carefully, for her own sake and for the sake of her daughters. She recalled the stories she had heard about King Westergaard's harsh rule and his reputation for treating his family with disdain. As she lay there, Iduna learned more about the Southern Isles and King Westergaard's reputation. She heard whispers of his cruel treatment of his family, particularly his sons, and his ruthless suppression of dissent. Iduna's instincts told her that she needed to be cautious, that King Westergaard's intentions were far from pure. The door to the room opened, and Prince Lars walked in, his eyes scanning the room with a hint of concern. "Father, I see our guest is recovering well," he said, his voice laced with a hint of skepticism. King Westergaard nodded, his expression unreadable. "Yes, Prince Lars. Queen Iduna is fortunate to have washed up on our shores. She will be staying with us for a while, I think." Prince Lars's eyes met Iduna's, and she detected a flicker of kindness in his gaze. "I'm glad to hear that you're recovering, Your Majesty," he said. "If there's anything I can do to help, please don't hesitate to ask." Iduna smiled weakly, feeling a sense of gratitude towards Prince Lars. "Thank you, Prince Lars. That's very kind of you." As Prince Lars left the room, Iduna couldn't help but wonder what lay ahead for her in this foreign land. She knew that she had to be careful, that King Westergaard's intentions were far from clear. But for now, she was safe, and that was all that mattered. The door to the room opened again, and a procession of the Westergaard family members filed in. There was Crown Prince Caleb, tall and lean with a cruel smile on his face. Prince Hans, younger and more reserved, stood beside him, his eyes downcast. Iduna also caught a glimpse of Prince Rudi and Prince Runo, who seemed to be arguing in hushed tones. Iduna's brown braided hair, done up in a bun, seemed to weigh heavier on her head as she watched the Westergaard family dynamics unfold. She sensed a deep-seated tension within the family, one that seemed to simmer just below the surface. King Westergaard cleared his throat, drawing everyone's attention. "This is Queen Iduna, the ruler of Arendelle. I trust you'll all make her feel... welcome." The room fell silent, and Iduna felt a chill run down her spine. She knew that she had to navigate this treacherous new world with caution, but she was determined to make her presence known. The Westergaard family members nodded or murmured greetings, but Iduna could sense their wariness. She also detected a hint of curiosity in their eyes, a desire to know more about the Queen of Arendelle who had washed up on their shores. Iduna steeled herself for the challenges ahead, knowing that she would have to tread carefully in this foreign land. As the family members began to disperse, Iduna caught Prince Lars's eye, and he offered her a reassuring smile. She smiled back, feeling a sense of gratitude towards the prince. In this cold and unforgiving world, Iduna had found a glimmer of hope.