**Chapter 10: A Glimmer of Hope**

As the days passed, Iduna continued to care for Hans, nursing him back to health with a gentle touch and a compassionate heart. She had always been a protective and nurturing person, and now she channeled those qualities into helping Hans. Her brown hair was styled in a coronet braid, a testament to her royal upbringing, and her eyes sparkled with kindness as she looked at Hans. Hans, still recovering from his intoxication, was grateful for Iduna's care. He had never felt so vulnerable in his life, and he was surprised by the comfort of her presence. Iduna's soothing voice and gentle touch seemed to calm his frazzled nerves, and he found himself looking forward to her visits. As Iduna cared for Hans, she began to see a glimmer of hope in him. She realized that he was not like his brothers, who were cruel and heartless. Rudi, Runo, and Caleb seemed to take pleasure in belittling and bullying Hans, and Iduna couldn't help but wonder why. But Lars, on the other hand, seemed different. He was kind and compassionate, and Iduna had seen him show Hans kindness and understanding. One day, as Iduna was helping Hans sit up in bed, Lars appeared at the door. "Hans, how are you feeling?" he asked, his voice warm and concerned. Hans smiled weakly, and Iduna helped him adjust his pillows. "I'm fine, thanks," Hans replied, his voice still hoarse from his intoxication. Lars nodded and sat down beside him, taking his hand in a gentle grasp. "I'm glad to hear that," Lars said, looking at Iduna with a hint of gratitude. "You've been taking good care of him, Your Majesty." Iduna smiled, feeling a sense of warmth towards Lars. "Please, call me Iduna," she said, her voice gentle. "I'm just trying to help Hans recover." As they talked, Iduna realized that Lars was not like the other princes. He was kind and compassionate, and he seemed to genuinely care for his brother's well-being. She felt a sense of hope rising up within her, and she knew that she had to help Hans and Lars bring about change to the southern isles. But for now, Iduna's focus was on helping Hans recover. She helped him take a few tentative steps, holding his hand and offering words of encouragement. And as they walked, she noticed that Hans seemed to be looking at her with a newfound appreciation. "Thank you, Iduna," he said, his voice sincere. "I don't know what I would have done without your help." Iduna smiled, feeling a sense of pride and satisfaction. "You're welcome, Hans," she said, her voice warm. "I'm just glad I could help." As the sun began to set, Iduna helped Hans back to bed, 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. And with Lars by his side, Iduna knew that Hans had a chance to overcome his struggles and find his place in the world.