**Chapter 9: The Sponge Bath**

The pungent smell of sweat and ale wafted through the air, mingling with the scent of soap and water as Iduna prepared to give Hans a sponge bath. She had been caring for him for a few days now, ever since Queen Marie had asked for her help. Iduna's brown hair was styled in a coronet braid, a testament to her royal upbringing, and her eyes sparkled with compassion as she looked at Hans. Hans lay on the bed, his auburn hair mussed and his skin hot and flushed. Iduna gently took a rag and a bowl of warm water, preparing to clean him. She had always been a protective and nurturing person, and now she channeled those qualities into helping Hans. With gentle hands, she began to clean Hans's body, her touch soothing and calming. She washed his face, his neck, and his arms, using a soft rag to wipe away the dirt and grime. As she worked, she sang a soft melody, one that she used to sing to her daughters, Elsa and Anna. The warm water and gentle cleaning seemed to bring Hans some relief, and he stirred slightly at the sound of Iduna's voice. As she continued to care for him, Iduna couldn't help but think about her own children. She remembered the countless nights she had spent caring for them, nursing them back to health when they were sick or injured. And now, as she looked at Hans, she saw a glimmer of that same vulnerability. Iduna's thoughts were interrupted by the sound of Hans's labored breathing. She gently wiped away the sweat from his forehead, her touch gentle and soothing. She pulled the covers up to his chin, making sure he was comfortable and warm. As she sat beside him, watching over him as he slept, Iduna couldn't help but think about the harsh realities of life in the southern isles. King Westergaard, the ruler of the kingdom, was a brutal man who cared little for the welfare of his people. He believed in the survival of the fittest, and those who were weak were left to fend for themselves. Iduna had seen the effects of King Westergaard's rule firsthand, and she had vowed to do everything in her power to help those in need. And now, as she looked at Hans, she saw an opportunity to make a difference. She would help Hans, not just as a favor to Queen Marie, but because she believed that he deserved a chance to thrive. And as she sat there, watching over him as he slept, she knew that she would do everything in her power to help him find his way. The sun was setting outside, casting a warm orange glow over the castle. Iduna smiled softly, feeling a sense of hope that she hadn't felt in a long time. Maybe, just maybe, she could help Hans find his way, and in doing so, help bring about change to the southern isles. As the darkness gathered outside, Iduna settled in for the night, watching over Hans as he slept. She knew that the road ahead would be difficult, but she was determined to help Hans overcome his struggles and find his place in the world. And as she sat there, surrounded by the quiet of the castle, she felt a sense of purpose that she hadn't felt in a long time.