**Chapter 3: The Revelation**

As Iduna regained consciousness, King Westergaard's expression transformed from curiosity to calculation. His eyes narrowed, and he leaned forward, his voice taking on a more sinister tone. "Queen Iduna, I must admit, I was surprised to learn of your identity. I had not expected to find the Queen of Arendelle washed up on my shores." Iduna's eyes widened as she realized the implications of being discovered by a foreign king. She tried to sit up, but a wave of dizziness washed over her, forcing her back onto the bed. King Westergaard's gaze lingered on her, and Iduna could sense the wheels turning in his mind. "I'm afraid I don't understand what you mean, Your Majesty," Iduna said, trying to keep her tone neutral. King Westergaard's expression turned cold. "Oh, I think you do, Queen Iduna. You see, I have... interests in Arendelle, and having you here could be... useful. Your presence could provide me with leverage, a pawn in my games of power." Iduna's heart sank at the king's words. She knew that she had to tread carefully, for her own sake and for the sake of her daughters. She recalled the stories she had heard about King Westergaard's harsh rule and his reputation for treating his family with disdain. As she lay there, Iduna learned more about the Southern Isles and King Westergaard's reputation. She heard whispers of his cruel treatment of his family, particularly his sons, and his ruthless suppression of dissent. Iduna's instincts told her that she needed to be cautious, that King Westergaard's intentions were far from pure. The door to the room opened, and Prince Lars walked in. "Father, I see our guest is recovering well," he said, his voice laced with a hint of concern. King Westergaard nodded, his expression unreadable. "Yes, Prince Lars. Queen Iduna is fortunate to have washed up on our shores. She will be staying with us for a while, I think." Prince Lars's eyes met Iduna's, and she detected a flicker of kindness in his gaze. "I'm glad to hear that you're recovering, Your Majesty," he said. "If there's anything I can do to help, please don't hesitate to ask." Iduna smiled weakly, feeling a sense of gratitude towards Prince Lars. "Thank you, Prince Lars. That's very kind of you." As Prince Lars left the room, Iduna couldn't help but wonder what lay ahead for her in this foreign land. She knew that she had to be careful, that King Westergaard's intentions were far from clear. But for now, she was safe, and that was all that mattered. The sound of footsteps echoed outside the room, and Iduna's brown braided hair, done up in a bun, seemed to weigh heavier on her head. She was Iduna, Queen of Arendelle, and she would not be intimidated by this strange new world. She would navigate its complexities with caution and determination, for her own sake and for the sake of those she loved. Iduna's thoughts drifted to her daughters, Elsa and Anna, and she wondered what they were doing back in Arendelle. She hoped they were safe and happy, and that she would see them again soon. With a newfound sense of resolve, Iduna settled into her new surroundings, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. King Westergaard's voice broke into her thoughts, "I'll have my men keep a close eye on you, Queen Iduna. For your own safety, of course." Iduna's heart skipped a beat as she realized the true extent of her situation. She was a guest in a foreign land, at the mercy of a ruthless king. But she was not one to be intimidated, and she was determined to make her presence known in this foreign land. The door closed, and Iduna was left alone with her thoughts. She knew that she had to be careful, that one misstep could mean disaster. But she also knew that she couldn't give up, not now, not ever. She was Iduna, Queen of Arendelle, and she would fight for her freedom, for her daughters, and for her future.