This is the tale of a journey that takes Luna not only to discover the world beyond Narnia's borders; she will find a purpose that goes deeper than protecting her king.
» That's why. I can't protect you the way I should... « As she looks into his ey...
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A COOL BREEZE WAKES CASPIAN from his slumber. The King of Narnia blinks into the afternoon sun, slowly coming to his full senses. The peaceful silence of the Star's Island must have lulled him to sleep. Just a few feet ahead of him sits Luna, perched on one of the larger rocks atop the cliffs. Her dark hair flows down her back, unhindered by the braid she usually keeps it in.
Previously, the warrior was basking in the sun beside Caspian on the wooden bench – one of the sailors crafted it for the star's daughter as this is her favourite spot to gaze into the east and watch the sky. Lilliandil showed the visitors this place after they returned from the utter east and decided to winter here – as Drinian put it. If only to give the Dawn Treader a thorough inspection and repair, to rest and allow the rescued Lone Islanders time to readjust to the "normal" world, including four of the seven previously lost lords. The latest events still gnaw at everyone, imprinted in minds and souls alike – the long journey including all its adventures and dangers, the battle against the sea serpent and the green mist, and finally the Silver Sea and what happened beyond. For Caspian two of these events are particularly unsettling: his short-lived wish to leave for Aslan's Country and the repeated loss of Edmund and Lucy. He knows the King and Queen of Old are alright in their own world, the Spare Oom as legends tell, with Aslan watching over them. Yet, they are never to return to Narnia, the last people he considered his family have left. Yes, at home await Trumpkin, Trufflehunter, Lord Dandren and Lord Elmas... all dear friends. None of them could ever fill the void in the king's heart, the longing for both – a partner he can share everything with, and the feeling of really being home. Now, as he gazes upon the sleek form of his Crown Shield, he realizes said is void is long filled. Luna feels like home, she is home. With a fond smile he remembers the days of their friendship. Maybe he always felt this way, maybe Aslan gave it in time – it doesn't matter. Even though there are plenty, Caspian doesn't need more reasons to love this woman. She is his family, has been for years, a constant in his life.
He takes a deep breath. The strives they have had are cleared – more or less – but courting is very different from the friendship they share. Things become awkward at times. Sometimes Luna retreats into herself. The events beyond the Silver Sea affect her too, more than she lets on, or more than she is ready to share with Caspian. As she lays her head back, looking up into the sky, a jolt of fear strikes the king. A feeling which has become familiar as the thought of losing her has plagued him in nightmares, even now as the mist is defeated. Past losses and experiences have made him cautious. So, what if he loses her? To strive, to her fears, to another man, or even to death... Then, Caspian would really be alone. The guilt over the selfishness of these thoughts is drowned by a stinging heart, like a needle pricking it. With a sigh he reminds himself to live in the moment. They are both here, safe and sound at the near end of the world. Soon the Dawn Treader will set sail again, carrying them home where duty and everyday life await. For now, the young king is determined to make the best of the time away from it all.
