**Chapter 4: The Southern Isles**

The sun was setting over the Southern Isles, casting a golden glow over the rugged landscape. Iduna, still recovering from her ordeal, gazed out the window of her chambers, marveling at the unfamiliar sights and sounds. She had been in the Southern Isles for several days now, and while she was grateful for King Westergaard's hospitality, she couldn't shake the feeling that she was a prisoner. As she turned away from the window, Iduna noticed a servant waiting in the doorway, a respectful bow on his head. "Your Majesty," he said, "King Westergaard requests your presence at dinner." Iduna nodded, smoothing her coronet braid, which was still a bit askew from her ordeal. She followed the servant to the grand hall, where King Westergaard sat at the head of a long table, his sons arrayed around him. The Southern Isles' royal family was a large and boisterous one, with twelve sons, all of whom seemed to be vying for their father's attention. Iduna's eyes scanned the table, taking in the array of faces. There was Rudi, the eldest, with his haughty expression; Runo, with his cruel smile; and Lars, the youngest, with his kind eyes. As she took her seat, Iduna noticed that one son was absent. "Where is Prince Hans?" she asked King Westergaard, curiosity getting the better of her. King Westergaard's expression turned cold. "Hans is...indisposed," he said, his voice dripping with disapproval. "He's a sensitive soul, that one. Not suited for the rough-and-tumble world of politics." Iduna's eyes met King Westergaard's, and for a moment, she thought she saw a glimmer of genuine concern. But it was quickly extinguished, replaced by a calculating gaze. As the dinner conversation turned to the topic of trade and commerce, Iduna listened intently, learning more about the Southern Isles and their economy. But she also caught glimpses of the harsh rule of King Westergaard, and the suffering of his people. The king's sons, except for Lars, seemed to be spoiled and entitled, taking their privileges for granted. They joked and laughed, but their humor was cruel and mocking, and Iduna found herself feeling uneasy in their presence. As the evening wore on, Iduna excused herself, feeling a bit overwhelmed. As she left the grand hall, she caught a glimpse of Lars, who smiled kindly at her. "It can be...difficult," he said, his voice low. "But I assure you, Queen Iduna, not all of us are as... unsympathetic as my brothers." Iduna smiled, feeling a sense of gratitude towards Lars. She knew that she had a lot to learn about the Southern Isles, but with Lars as a guide, she felt a sense of hope. As she retired to her chambers, Iduna couldn't help but wonder about Prince Hans, and the circumstances that had led to his absence from dinner. She had a feeling that there was more to the story, and she was determined to learn the truth.