**Chapter 7: Diplomatic Visit**

The somber atmosphere that had settled over Arendelle began to lift as the kingdom prepared for a diplomatic visit to the Southern Isles. Queen Iduna, Princesses Elsa and Anna, and a small entourage of trusted advisors and guards made their way to the docks, where a majestic ship awaited to take them on their journey. The royal family's visit was intended to strengthen the bonds between Arendelle and the Southern Isles, and Iduna was determined to make a good impression. As they boarded the ship, Iduna's thoughts turned to her late husband, King Agnarr. It had been a week since his passing, and the wound still felt fresh. She took a deep breath, pushing aside her grief, and focused on the task at hand. Elsa and Anna, sensing their mother's emotions, stayed close by her side. The ship set sail, and the royal party was soon immersed in the intricacies of diplomatic protocol. Iduna, Elsa, and Anna attended meetings with King Westergaard and his family, exchanging gifts and words of friendship. However, amidst the pomp and ceremony, Iduna couldn't shake the feeling that something was off. As they prepared to leave, Iduna noticed that Hans, a young friend of the royal family, was noticeably absent. She asked one of the attendants about his whereabouts, only to be told that he had been left behind in Arendelle. Iduna's heart sank, and she felt a pang of worry. She had grown fond of Hans, and his absence was a reminder that not everyone was as fortunate as they were. The ship arrived at the Southern Isles, and the royal party was greeted by King Westergaard's imposing figure. Iduna's instincts told her that something was not quite right about the king, but she pushed aside her concerns, focusing on the diplomatic mission. As they entered the palace, Iduna caught glimpses of King Westergaard's sons, Crown Prince Caleb, Rudi, and Runo. They seemed to embody the very essence of their father's demeanor – entitled, spoiled, and arrogant. Iduna's unease grew, but she maintained her composure, determined to see the visit through to its conclusion. The days that followed were a blur of meetings, feasts, and ceremonies. Iduna, Elsa, and Anna played their roles to perfection, but Iduna's mind kept wandering back to Hans. She couldn't help but wonder what had become of him, and why he had been left behind. As the royal party prepared to depart, Iduna made a mental note to find out more about Hans's situation. She had a feeling that something was amiss, and she was determined to get to the bottom of it. Little did she know that her life, and the lives of those she loved, were about to take a dramatic turn.