**Chapter 5: The King's Recognition**

The gentle rocking of the horse-drawn carriage was a welcome respite from the pain and discomfort Iduna had endured for weeks. As she sat up straight, her brown braided hair, done up in a neat bun, bobbed slightly with the motion. Grimbold, the weathered fisherman, sat beside her, offering a reassuring smile. "Are you comfortable, Your Highness?" he asked, his voice gruff but kind. Iduna nodded, wincing slightly as a sharp pain shot through her head. "Yes, thank you. I'm just a bit stiff." The carriage continued on its journey, passing through rolling hills and verdant forests. Iduna marveled at the scenery, taking in the unfamiliar sights and sounds. She had been on the Southern Isles for weeks, but she had never ventured this far inland. As they rode, Grimbold told her about King Westergaard, the ruler of the Southern Isles. "He's a just and fair king," he said. "He'll do his best to help you regain your memories and find your way back home." Iduna's thoughts turned to her family, and she wondered if they were searching for her. She hoped that King Agnarr and her daughters, Elsa and Anna, were safe and well. A pang of sadness washed over her, and she felt a lump form in her throat. The carriage crested a hill, and Iduna caught her first glimpse of Westergaard Castle. The imposing structure rose from the landscape, its stone walls glinting in the sunlight. She felt a surge of trepidation, wondering what lay ahead. As they approached the castle, Iduna's anxiety grew. What would King Westergaard be like? Would he be able to help her? She pushed aside her doubts, focusing on the present moment. The carriage drew up to the castle entrance, and Iduna was greeted by a liveried servant. "Welcome, Your Highness," he said, bowing low. "King Westergaard awaits you." Iduna took a deep breath, steeling herself for what lay ahead. She stepped down from the carriage, her legs trembling slightly beneath her. Grimbold offered his arm, and she accepted, grateful for his support. Together, they entered the castle, and Iduna was immediately struck by the grandeur of her surroundings. The high ceilings, the ornate tapestries, and the polished stone floors all contributed to an atmosphere of opulence and power. As they walked, Iduna caught glimpses of the castle's inhabitants. Servants and guards bustled about, attending to their duties. She saw a few courtiers, dressed in fine attire, who nodded or bowed as she passed. The servant led them to a large throne room, where King Westergaard sat on his throne, his piercing blue eyes fixed on Iduna. He rose as she approached, his expression warm and welcoming. "Ah, Queen Iduna," he said, his voice deep and resonant. "I've heard a great deal about you. I'm glad you're safe and well." Iduna curtsied, feeling a bit awkward. "Thank you, Your Majesty," she replied. "I'm grateful for your hospitality." King Westergaard smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "You're welcome, Your Highness. I think I can help you regain your memories and find your way back home. But first, let's get you settled and comfortable. You must be exhausted from your journey." As Iduna followed King Westergaard to her chambers, she noticed a commotion outside the throne room. A young man, dressed in fine attire, was being carried on a stretcher, his face bruised and battered. Iduna's concern was palpable, and King Westergaard noticed it. "That's Hans, the youngest son of the Duke of Weselton," he explained. "He's been in a bit of trouble lately. His brothers and I had a... disagreement with him, and things got out of hand." Iduna's eyes widened in concern. "I'm so sorry to hear that," she said. "May I see him?" King Westergaard nodded. "Of course, Your Highness. I'm sure he would appreciate your kindness." Iduna followed King Westergaard to Hans' chambers, where she found him lying on a bed, his injuries severe. She felt a pang of compassion for the young man and knew that she had to help him. Over the next few days, Iduna spent a lot of time with Hans, nursing him back to health and listening to his story. She learned that he was a kind and gentle soul, who had been abused and manipulated by his family. Iduna's heart went out to him, and she knew that she had to protect him from his family's cruelty. As Hans recovered, Iduna grew closer to him, and she realized that she had a chance to make a difference in his life. She was determined to help him, and she knew that King Westergaard would support her. Together, they would face the challenges ahead, and Iduna would find a way to protect Hans from his family's abuse. The queen's instincts were stirring, and Iduna knew that she would do everything in her power to help this young man, who had been so cruelly treated by those who were supposed to care for him.