**Chapter 4: Recovery and Reflection**

The warm glow of the setting sun cast a golden light upon the modest village, illuminating the thatched roofs and the somber faces of the villagers as they gathered around Iduna. Her brown hair, styled in an elegant updo reminiscent of Elsa's coronation look, cascaded down her back like a rich, chestnut waterfall. The villagers' curiosity and suspicion were palpable as they gazed at her, their eyes lingering on the bruises and scrapes that marred her skin. As the villagers parted, King Westergaard approached Iduna, his tall, imposing figure commanding attention. His kind face and gentle eyes put Iduna at ease, and she felt a sense of relief wash over her as he drew near. "Your Majesty," Iduna said, her voice barely above a whisper, as she nodded in greeting. King Westergaard smiled and nodded, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Please, call me Westergaard," he said, his voice low and soothing. "We are not formal here, at least not with those who are injured and in need of care." Iduna smiled weakly, feeling a sense of gratitude towards this stranger. "Thank you, Westergaard," she said. "I am grateful for your kindness." As they talked, Iduna learned that Westergaard was a just and fair ruler, beloved by his people. He was intrigued by her presence, and Iduna found herself telling him about her journey to Ahtohallan, and the shipwreck that had brought her to his kingdom. She also spoke of her daughters, Elsa and Anna, and her husband, Agnarr. Westergaard listened intently, his eyes filled with compassion. When Iduna finished speaking, he nodded thoughtfully. "You are safe here, Iduna," he said. "We will do everything in our power to help you recover and find a way back home." Iduna's eyes welled up with tears as she looked at Westergaard. She felt a sense of gratitude towards this stranger, who had taken her in and was willing to help her in her time of need. As Westergaard turned to leave, one of the villagers approached him and whispered something in his ear. Westergaard's expression changed, and he turned back to Iduna with a look of surprise. "Iduna, I believe I know who you are," he said. "You are the Queen of Arendelle, are you not?" Iduna's eyes widened in surprise, and she nodded, feeling a sense of trepidation. She had not expected to be recognized so quickly. Westergaard nodded, a look of respect on his face. "I had suspected as much, given your hair and your bearing," he said. "I am honored to have you in my kingdom, Iduna. We will do everything in our power to help you and your family." Iduna smiled, feeling a sense of gratitude towards Westergaard. She knew that she had found a friend in this stranger, and she was grateful for his kindness. As the villagers continued to care for Iduna, she began to feel a sense of belonging in this foreign land. She knew that she had a long road to recovery ahead of her, but for the first time since the shipwreck, she felt a glimmer of hope. The news of Iduna's identity spread quickly through the village, and soon, the villagers were gathered around her, asking her questions and seeking her blessing. Iduna was happy to oblige, and she found herself enjoying the attention. As the sun began to set, Iduna felt a sense of peace wash over her. She knew that she was safe, and that she had found a friend in Westergaard. She closed her eyes, feeling grateful for this turn of events, and drifted off to sleep, surrounded by the people of the Southern Isles. Iduna slept soundly, lulled by the gentle hum of the villagers' conversations and the soft rustle of their movements. She was vaguely aware of the sounds of the village, but she didn't stir, lost in a deep and restorative sleep. When she woke, the sun was high in the sky, casting a warm glow over the village. Iduna felt refreshed and rejuvenated, her body and mind both at ease. She smiled, feeling a sense of gratitude towards the villagers, who had taken her in and cared for her. As she sat up, a gentle hand touched her shoulder. It was Westergaard, who smiled at her with a warm and kindly expression. "Good morning, Iduna," he said. "I see you're feeling better. We'll do everything we can to help you recover and find a way back home." Iduna smiled, feeling a sense of gratitude towards Westergaard. She knew that she had found a friend in this stranger, and she was grateful for his kindness. "Thank you, Westergaard," she said. "I am grateful for your help. I just wish...I wish I could see my daughters again." Westergaard's expression softened, and he nodded. "I'm sure you will, Iduna," he said. "We'll do everything we can to help you find a way back home. But for now, let's focus on getting you better. You have a long road to recovery ahead of you." Iduna nodded, feeling a sense of determination. She knew that she had a long way to go, but she was ready to face the challenges ahead, knowing that she had found a friend in Westergaard and the people of the Southern Isles.