One, two lords want to kill Caspian. Possibly more. Two, arsenic poison may be their weapon of choice. Butthey have a counteract-plan. These thoughts roll through Luna's head in a continuous loop. Fana already threatened to tie her down to make her sit still for at least an hour. The Crown Shield cannot help herself – nervous anxiety has her fidgeting every waking moment she is not training her weakened muscles, going over the plan searching for holes and blind spots or preparing in any other way possibly needed. She knows her friends do not rest, all uneasy as well. She knows there is little left for her to do now apart from waiting, memorizing the plan. She knows she should rest. But, Luna being the stubborn warrior she is, has changed her nightgown for her usual clothes – a pair of dark trousers, a blouse under her tunic and nearly knee-high boots. She misses the weight of her sword – but the trusted blade was lost in the battle at sea, sinking into Aslan knows what darkness in its depths. Ivelle would be too heavy for her to wield in this state, anyways. Plus, a sword should never be the first choice when in a crowd. A small consolation. Instead, the twin dagger to Caspian's is at her side – sleek and lion-headed, the dark blade will hopefully protect her well this evening. Tonight. She quickens her pace at the thought. Thanks to regular exercise under Fana or Tary's watchful eyes, Luna has gained strength. She is not her old self, but not too far from it to feel entirely insecure. It is a slow process that never had a chance to be completed in the roughly two weeks they had until Caspian's return. But what eventful days they were...
*
Six days prior. Luna has settled on a chair which's cushions are a bit too soft and make the occupant sink in a bit too deep. Alas, she holds her face into the afternoon sun, relishing in its warmth and the quiet out here. Like every day, Novice Tary has brought a cup of tea mixed with medicine to Luna's bedside. A concoction tasting faintly of cinnamon and ginger – the warrior doesn't care to elaborate the herbs and other ingredients. Today, she escaped with the cup to this garden roof, tucked away between the roofs and turrets of Cair Paravel. Since she awoke, she barely had a moment alone and, so far, she didn't realize just how much she needed one. In the past, she would simply saddle Tanath and ride cross country. Now, she doubts she would get farther than saddling and mounting without being exhausted. Blinking against the light, she looks out towards the Great River which – not far from the palace – leads into the sea. The soft hills rolling along this side of the riverbank end in steep cliffs. Perfect places to train endurance and strength. Also, the many natural caves and alcoves help schooling the eyes of a prospective Crown guard or Shadow – any movement must be spotted on duty. Too many attempts on the king's life have made Luna a strict teacher. At the thought, her content smile falters. Caspian – wherever he might be right now – her heart longs for him. The Crown Shield in her would like nothing more as to jump into the saddle and find him.
With a sigh, she lifts the cup. The tea has cooled enough to sip it comfortably.
» Oh, apologies, I didn't know someone was here. « Luna turns, startled as she did not hear the door open nor any steps. A woman stands on the patio, a hand still on the handle of the glass door. Her dark blue eyes meet the warrior's and a gentle smile blooms on her lips. Luna studies the newcomer, she doesn't remember having seen her before. She must be new to court – but her fine gown speaks of the rank of a noble.
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Journey of Trust | A Narnian Story
FanfictionThis 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...