**Chapter 5: Royal Recognition**

King Westergaard's piercing blue eyes scrutinized Iduna as she stood before him, her slender figure still recovering from the ordeal of the shipwreck. The warm glow of the candles and the soft rustle of the silk fabrics in the throne room seemed to fade into the background as the king's gaze locked onto hers. Iduna's brown hair, worn up in a coronet braid, framed her heart-shaped face, and her bright green eyes sparkled with a mix of caution and determination. "So, you're the queen of Arendelle," King Westergaard said, his deep voice commanding attention. His words were laced with a hint of curiosity, but his expression remained guarded, like a fortress protecting its secrets. Iduna curtsied, her body still weak but her spirit unbroken. The silk fabric of her dress rustled softly as she moved, and the delicate gold embroidery on the hem seemed to shimmer in the candlelight. "Your Majesty," she said, her voice steady, like a gentle breeze on a summer's day. King Westergaard nodded, his eyes never leaving hers. "You're a lucky woman, Iduna. Many people don't survive the storms that rage along our coast. I'm glad you're here, and I'm willing to offer you my hospitality." His words were courteous, but Iduna sensed a hint of calculation behind them, like a chess player contemplating his next move. As the king spoke, Iduna couldn't help but notice the grandeur of the throne room. The high ceiling seemed to stretch up to the heavens, and the large windows let in a flood of natural light that illuminated the intricate tapestries on the walls. The air was thick with the scent of old books and polished wood, and Iduna felt a sense of awe wash over her. Despite the opulence of her surroundings, Iduna's mind was still reeling from the events that had led her to this moment. She thought back to the shipwreck, the sound of the waves crashing against the hull, and the feeling of helplessness that had washed over her as she clung to the debris. She remembered the exhaustion, the pain, and the fear that had gripped her as she washed up on the shore. But as she stood before King Westergaard, Iduna felt a sense of determination rising within her. She would not be intimidated by the king's power or his palace. She would use her wit and her courage to navigate this new and unfamiliar world. "I appreciate your kindness, Your Majesty," Iduna said finally, trying to sound gracious. "I'm grateful for your help, and I'll do my best to repay you." Her words were measured, like a carefully crafted poem, and she hoped that they would convey the sense of gratitude and respect that she felt. King Westergaard smiled, his eyes glinting with amusement. "I'm sure you will, Iduna. I'm sure you will." His words were cryptic, like a riddle waiting to be solved, and Iduna wondered what lay ahead. The king rang a small bell on his desk, and a servant appeared. "See that Queen Iduna is provided with everything she needs," he said. "I want her to be comfortable here." His voice was commanding, like a general issuing orders, and Iduna felt a sense of relief wash over her. As the servant led her out of the throne room, Iduna couldn't help but wonder what the future held. She knew that she had to be careful, and that she had to protect herself and her daughters at all costs. But for now, she was content to rest and recover, surrounded by the luxury of the palace. The soft carpet beneath her feet, the warm fires that crackled in the hearth, and the gentle hum of conversation from the servants all seemed to conspire to soothe her frazzled nerves. As she walked, Iduna felt a sense of hope rising within her. She would find a way to get back to Arendelle, and to her daughters. And she would make sure that they were safe, no matter what it took. The thought of Elsa and Anna gave her the strength to face whatever challenges lay ahead, and Iduna steeled herself for the journey that was to come.