**Chapter 5: Humiliation**

The grand hall was filled with the murmur of conversation as King Westergaard's sons gathered for a meeting with their father. Iduna, still recovering from her ordeal, had been invited to observe the discussion. She took a seat at the back of the hall, her eyes scanning the room as she tried to make sense of the complex web of alliances and rivalries between the princes. Prince Hans, the youngest son, stood at the edge of the group, his auburn hair a stark contrast to his brothers' darker locks. He seemed nervous, fidgeting with his gloves as he waited for the meeting to begin. King Westergaard, a tall and imposing figure, stood at the front of the room, his eyes surveying his sons. "Today, we will discuss the future of our kingdom," he announced, his voice booming off the stone walls. "And the role that each of you will play in it." As the meeting progressed, Iduna watched as Prince Rudi and Prince Runo, the fifth and sixth sons, began to mock and belittle Prince Hans. Their words were laced with venom, and Iduna could see the pain and humiliation etched on Hans's face. The princes' conversation turned to the topic of taxes, and King Westergaard's harsh policies were revealed. Iduna learned that the king's taxes had left many of his people struggling to survive, and that his sons were more interested in maintaining their own power and privilege than in helping those in need. Rudi and Runo's taunts grew more vicious, and Hans's face reddened with anger and shame. Iduna could see the tension building, and she knew that the situation was on the verge of escalating. Suddenly, Hans's face crumpled, and he stumbled backwards, his eyes welling up with tears. "I...I don't know if I can do this," he stammered, his voice shaking. The room fell silent, and Iduna felt a pang of sympathy for the young prince. She knew what it was like to be humiliated and belittled, and she could see that Hans was on the brink of a breakdown. Without warning, Hans turned and ran from the room, leaving his brothers and father staring after him in shock. Iduna rose from her seat, concern etched on her face. She knew that she had to find Hans and help him. As she turned to leave, she collided with Queen Alice, Hans's mother. The queen's face was pale with worry, and Iduna could see the fear in her eyes. "What's happened?" Iduna asked, her voice low. Queen Alice hesitated before answering. "Hans had a...a moment. He tried to harm himself. I found him, and I...I need someone to take care of him." Iduna's heart went out to the queen, and she nodded. "I'll help," she said, her voice firm. "I'll do everything I can to help Hans recover." Queen Alice smiled, a look of gratitude on her face. "Thank you, Iduna. I knew I could count on you." As Iduna followed Queen Alice from the grand hall, she couldn't help but wonder what had driven Hans to the brink of despair. And what she could do to help him heal.