**Chapter 12: Getting to Know Hans**

As the days passed, Iduna, Elsa, and Anna grew more accustomed to having a five-year-old Hans in their lives. The palace, once a somber and quiet place, was now filled with the sound of laughter and playful chatter. Hans' auburn hair and bright blue eyes sparkled with excitement as he explored every nook and cranny of the palace, asking endless questions and seeking out new adventures. Elsa, who had initially been hesitant about having a new person in her life, found herself growing more fond of Hans by the day. She was surprised by how much she enjoyed playing with him, watching as he chased after snowflakes in the palace courtyard or built elaborate snowmen in the gardens. Hans' infectious laughter and joyful energy were a balm to Elsa's reserved nature, and she found herself smiling more and more in his presence. Anna, on the other hand, had taken to Hans like a duck to water. She loved having a new playmate, and the two of them were quickly becoming inseparable. They would spend hours playing games, having tea parties, and going on wild adventures through the palace. Iduna would often watch them with a warm smile, happy to see her daughters forming a bond with the young prince. As Iduna got to know Hans better, she was struck by his curious and adventurous spirit. He was a child who had been given a second chance at life, and he was determined to make the most of it. Iduna found herself feeling a sense of maternal instinct towards Hans, wanting to protect and guide him as he navigated his new life. One afternoon, Iduna decided to take Hans on a special outing. She bundled him up in a warm coat and hat, and they set out into the palace gardens. The sun was shining, and the air was crisp and cold, filled with the scent of snow and pine. Hans' eyes sparkled with excitement as Iduna led him to a hidden grove deep in the gardens. Inside the grove, Iduna had set up a small ice rink, where Elsa and Anna often practiced their skating. Hans' eyes widened as he took in the sight of the ice, and Iduna couldn't help but laugh at his enthusiasm. "Would you like to try skating, Hans?" she asked, taking his hand. Hans nodded eagerly, and Iduna helped him onto the ice. At first, he was a bit unsteady, but with Iduna's guidance, he quickly found his footing. As they glided across the ice, Hans' laughter echoed through the grove, and Iduna felt a sense of joy that she hadn't felt in a long time. As the sun began to set, Iduna and Hans made their way back to the palace, tired but happy. As they walked, Hans looked up at Iduna with a serious expression. "Thank you, Iduna," he said, his voice filled with sincerity. "I'm so glad I'm here. I feel like I'm home." Iduna's heart swelled with emotion as she looked down at Hans. She knew that she had a lot to offer this young prince, and she was determined to help him grow and thrive in his new life. "You are home, Hans," she said, smiling. "You're part of our family now."