**Chapter 3: The Journey to Westergaard**

As the carriage rumbled along the winding roads, Iduna's thoughts swirled with questions. Where was she being taken? Who was this king that Gudrun had spoken of? And what did he want with her? The memories of the shipwreck and her time on the shore were hazy, but she recalled the kindness of the villagers and the concern in Gudrun's eyes. The carriage ride was long and arduous, but eventually, they arrived at the castle. Iduna's eyes widened as they passed through the gates and into the courtyard. The castle was imposing, with stone walls and towers that seemed to stretch up to the sky. She felt a shiver run down her spine as the carriage came to a stop and the door was opened. A liveried servant helped Iduna out of the carriage, and she stood tall, taking in her surroundings. The courtyard was bustling with activity, with guards and servants rushing to and fro. Iduna's gaze was drawn to a large throne room, where a tall, imposing figure sat on a throne. The servant led Iduna into the throne room, where King Westergaard sat, his eyes fixed on her. Iduna's heart skipped a beat as she took in the king's imposing presence. He was a tall, muscular man with a stern expression, his eyes cold and calculating. "Ah, welcome," King Westergaard said, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "I've been expecting you. You are...?" Iduna stood tall, despite her weakness. "I am Iduna, Queen of Arendelle," she said, her voice steady. King Westergaard's eyes narrowed, his expression calculating. "Ah, Queen Iduna," he said. "I've heard a lot about you. Please, come closer. We have much to discuss." Iduna's gaze was drawn to the king's family, who stood beside him. There was Crown Prince Caleb, a tall, arrogant young man with a sneer on his face. And then there was Queen Maren, a kind-faced woman with a gentle expression. Iduna also caught sight of Prince Lars, a charming young man with a wary expression. As Iduna approached the throne, she noticed the king's wife, Queen Maren, watching her with interest. Iduna's brown braided hair, done up in a bun, seemed to draw the queen's attention. Queen Maren's expression softened, and she took a step forward. "Welcome, Queen Iduna," Queen Maren said, her voice warm. "We don't often receive visitors of your... stature. I trust you are feeling better?" Iduna smiled, grateful for the queen's kindness. "Yes, thank you," she said. "I am feeling a bit better. But I am still a bit... uncertain." King Westergaard snorted, his expression dismissive. "Uncertain? Ah, yes. I'm sure you are. Well, we will do our best to... enlighten you." Iduna's eyes narrowed, sensing the king's hostility. But she stood tall, her head held high, as she replied, "I would be grateful for any information you can provide." The king's expression turned cold, and he nodded to one of his guards. "Show Queen Iduna to her quarters," he said. "She must be tired from her journey. We will speak again soon." As Iduna was led out of the throne room, she caught sight of Prince Lars watching her with a curious expression. She smiled, feeling a sense of hope. Perhaps, just perhaps, she had found an ally in this strange and unfamiliar place.