**Chapter 3: The Southern Isles**

The warm sunlight danced across the rolling hills and verdant forests of the Southern Isles, a stark contrast to the turbulent sea that had deposited Iduna on its shores. As she lay on the soft, emerald-green grass, the gentle breeze carried the sweet scent of blooming wildflowers, and the sound of birdsong filled the air. The villagers who had discovered her had taken her to King Westergaard's castle, a sturdy fortress built on a hill overlooking the sea. Iduna's thoughts were still reeling from the shipwreck and Agnarr's passing, but she was grateful for the kindness of the villagers. As she sat up, taking stock of her surroundings, Iduna noticed the castle's stone walls, adorned with intricate carvings of the royal family's crest. The Southern Isles' emblem, a golden crown on a blue background, seemed to gleam in the sunlight, a symbol of the power and prestige that lay within. The physician who had tended to her wounds earlier entered the room, followed by a tall, imposing figure with a commanding presence. King Westergaard's piercing blue eyes seemed to bore into Iduna's very soul as he approached her. The king's rugged features and sharp jawline spoke of a man who was not afraid to make difficult decisions. His dark hair, flecked with grey, was a testament to his age and experience. Iduna felt a shiver run down her spine as he looked at her, but she stood tall, despite her exhaustion. The physician bowed slightly, announcing, "Your Majesty, this woman was washed up on the beach after a shipwreck. She appears to be of noble birth." King Westergaard's gaze lingered on Iduna, and she felt a sense of unease. What did he want from her? And what would happen to her now? The king's eyes seemed to hold a hint of curiosity, and Iduna wondered if he could see the pain and grief etched on her face. She took a deep breath, trying to gather her thoughts, and began to speak. "I...I'm Iduna," she said, her voice still hoarse from the saltwater. "I was traveling to Ahtohallan, seeking to understand my daughter's powers." King Westergaard's expression changed from curiosity to surprise, and Iduna sensed a spark of recognition. "Ah, I think I know who you might be," he said, his voice deep and commanding. "You are the Queen of Arendelle, mother of Elsa and Anna." Iduna nodded, feeling a mix of emotions. She was relieved that her identity was known, but also worried about the implications. King Westergaard nodded, his expression softening. "You are welcome here, Queen Iduna. You may stay in my castle, and receive medical attention as needed." Iduna thanked him, feeling a sense of gratitude. As she lay back on the bed, she noticed a painting on the wall, depicting the royal family of the Southern Isles. The crown prince, Caleb, and his brothers, Rudi, Runo, and Lars, were shown standing proudly beside their parents, King Westergaard and Queen Lirien. Iduna's gaze lingered on the painting, and she wondered what kind of people they were. Little did she know that her life was about to become intertwined with theirs, in ways she could never have imagined. As she drifted off to sleep, Iduna felt a sense of unease, but also a glimmer of hope. She was alive, and she would find a way to protect her daughters, no matter what lay ahead. The sound of footsteps outside her room broke the silence, and Iduna's eyes snapped open. A gentle voice spoke, "Queen Iduna, I have brought you some food and drink. You must be famished." Iduna smiled weakly, and the servant entered with a tray, bearing a steaming bowl of soup and a cup of tea. The aroma wafting from the bowl was heavenly, and Iduna's stomach growled in response. As she ate and drank, Iduna felt a sense of peace wash over her. She was safe, for now, and she would face whatever challenges lay ahead, armed with her courage and her love for her daughters. The Southern Isles, with all its mysteries and dangers, lay before her, and Iduna was ready to face them head-on.