**Chapter 4: The King's Dilemma**

King Westergaard's eyes narrowed as he studied Iduna, his mind racing with the implications of her presence. He had been ruler of the Southern Isles for many years, and in that time, he had encountered his fair share of refugees and travelers. But there was something about Iduna that caught his attention, something that set her apart from the usual castaways and wanderers. As he looked at her, he noticed the fine lines etched into her face, the determined set of her jaw, and the piercing green of her eyes. She was a woman of strong character, that much was clear. And yet, despite her strength, she was also vulnerable, her body battered and bruised from her ordeal at sea. The king's advisors, gathered around him, whispered among themselves, their voices hushed but their words laced with speculation. They had heard stories of a queen from Arendelle, a woman with a mysterious past and a daughter with extraordinary powers. Could this be her? As Iduna slept, King Westergaard called for his most trusted advisor, a wise old man named Erik. "Erik, I need your counsel," he said, his voice low and urgent. "This woman, Iduna, I believe she may be more than just a castaway. I think she may be the Queen of Arendelle." Erik's eyes widened in surprise. "Arendelle, Your Majesty? But what of the rumors? The stories of a queen with a daughter who has... unusual abilities?" King Westergaard nodded, his expression thoughtful. "Yes, I've heard the rumors. And I believe this woman may be the key to unlocking the truth." Erik nodded, his face set in a determined expression. "Then we must treat her with the respect and care due to her station, Your Majesty. We must learn more about her and her connection to Arendelle." As the king and Erik discussed Iduna's fate, the castle's staff bustled about, preparing for the queen's arrival. Iduna's room was upgraded, and a team of servants was assigned to care for her. The king himself visited her, bringing with him a small token of his hospitality - a delicate silver necklace with a small crystal pendant. When Iduna awoke, she was greeted by the king's warm smile and the soft glow of candlelight. "Welcome, Queen Iduna," he said, his voice low and courteous. "I hope you are feeling better. I must admit, I am intrigued by your story. I would like to learn more about you and your... situation." Iduna's eyes met the king's, and she saw kindness and curiosity there. She knew that she had to tread carefully, to balance her desire for information with her need for caution. She told him of her journey, of her daughters Elsa and Anna, and of her quest to understand Elsa's powers. As she spoke, King Westergaard listened intently, his expression growing more and more thoughtful. He knew that he had a difficult decision to make - to help Iduna, or to use her situation to his advantage. But as he looked into her eyes, he saw something there that gave him pause. He saw a spark of determination, a fire that burned bright and true. And in that moment, the king knew what he had to do. He would help Iduna, and in doing so, he would find a way to benefit his own kingdom. The fate of the Southern Isles, and that of Arendelle, hung in the balance. The king's decision would set off a chain of events that would change the course of history forever.