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...
Oops! This image does not follow our content guidelines. To continue publishing, please remove it or upload a different image.
Hands behind her head, Luna stares at the ceiling of the canopy bed. The previous evening flashes in her mind, and even the smallest moment lets her heart leap. It all began with the relief she felt after the hearing was over and the Dawn Treader set back over to Avra. Then the walk with Caspian. Barefoot running through soft grass, the long blades tickling her thighs. The gentle touches exchanged between the couple, alone the memory sends tingles through her body. The shared laughs. And finally, the question of all questions. The image of Cas on one knee in front of her sends her soul in a sparkly state, warm, joyous to the extend where she fears the fireworks to break out of her any moment. Luna smiles brightly at the embroidered stars above her, her eyes outshining them – emulating said firework of emotions. Only a few heartbeats later, gentle peace floods her chest. The warrior's smile changes, softens, just like her very essence finally transformed last evening. Protector and lover are one now, molded into the form of a new Luna – at least, it feels that way. She relishes in the feeling of unity within her. The ever-raging storm stilled. Right now, everything seems to have fallen in place, the world perfect. Of course, she knows, reality is far from perfect. Yet, the Crown Shield is confident that, with Cas by her side, everything will be fine. They made a promise to each other, the silver band on her finger bears witness to it. Further, it is proof, a monument of sorts, that Luna can protect her king while being with him - and vice versa. Slowly, it dawns on her that the two always did both, never ceased to love each other - not in friendship nor in quarrel, neither in adventure nor war. Yet, the feeling of the ring is still alien; her thumb cannot cease spinning it.
Luna closes her eyes as the first rays of sunlight filter through the high windows - she didn't bother shutting the curtains as she returned last light. It was quite late, after all. The couple remained outside for a while longer after Cas slipped the engagement band onto her finger. They laid in the grass side by side, hand in hand, watching the sun set behind the Lone Islands - ending the day and an era, leaving the stars to reign alone as the moon was barley crescent. They spotted the one or other freshly named constellation of the eastern skies. This day now, Luna muses, marks the beginning of a new era. Times of friendship and courting are over, the engagement has begun. Her thoughts swirl with what that might entail. As they reach the court of Cair Paravel, they darken and her heart leaps frantically. No, the Crown Shield can practically hear her mentor's voice, one step at a time. First, they'll set sail and make for Narnia. Drinian said, it will be a good three weeks to the shores of their country. Then she can worry about the next step.
For now, the warrior decides to rise and prepare for the day. After an extended morning routine of a full bath - the crew won't get another for a few days at least - getting dressed and stretches, she packs the few things she brought from the ship. Stepping out of her chamber, she finds Caspian already strolling down the corridor. He spots her and his smile brightens as her feathery steps carry her towards him. Unknown to the Crown Shield, the smile on her lips weakens his knees. She is fully occupied trying to tame her own heartbeat - it cannot decide if to beat fast or calm upon seeing the king. Caspian already extends his hands for hers to slip in between. They greet each other with loving glances and whispers as well as a brief touch of their foreheads.
