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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She is standing at the edge of a field; it is parted into two long lanes parallel to each other. The sandy ground is dug over, trampled from hooves and armour-clad feet. On the opposite side, a crowd of people is lined up, shoving, and bumping into each other to get a better view. They are onlookers, waiting for the jousting tournament to begin. Luna's eyes wander over the unknown faces until someone clears their throat next to her. The warrior turns her head to the side to find a herald looking around as she did before. He is a middle-aged man with dark hair that greys here and there. Whereas his skin is brown like it is common for the people of Galma, his eyes are light blue.
» Milady, the joust's about to commence, « his voice is strong, laced with an unmistakable northern accent – similar to the dialect in the villages of Ettinsmoor. Luna nods and moves to return to the stands where she was seated along the rest of the Dawn Treader's crew. However, the herald rushes to walk with her.
» The lady invites you to sit with her, « he explains,
» If you would follow me, please. « Surprised by this proposal, the Crown Shield allows the herald to guide her to the private stand of the Duke of Galma and his daughter. Though, it doesn't sit quite right with Luna to abandon Drinian and the others.
As they reach said stand, the guards eye her from top to bottom, suspicious of the sword at her side. The herald bows deep in front of his master and takes his place behind the duke who is seated on a chair faintly resembling a throne. His daughter sits to his right – a petite girl who seems quite shy as she avoids eye contact whenever possible. As the Dawn Treader arrived in Galma about a week ago, Luna already figured out why. The lady is cross-eyed. Yet, that doesn't belittle her beauty. Her olive skin shimmers in the sun and her freckles dance when she smiles. Just like now. She looks up from her hands which are toying with a handkerchief.
» Ah, Lady Luna, I'm glad you accept my invitation, « she says, her voice always so quiet,
» Please, take a seat. « She gestures to the spot next to her. The invited does as told with a stiff nod,
» Thank you, milady. « The lady seems like she wants to say more but a wave of cheers and applause cuts her off. Both females turn their attention to the tournament in process.
Two opponents took their places on each side of the field. Luna's gaze is focused on the one on the right. King Caspian steps up next to his horse. He is in full armour, his sword at his side and a helmet in his hands. His hair is held back to not disturb him during the joust. This is the last fight for today. All other competitors are eliminated, these two are the last and it is now to be decided who will claim the prize. The duke hosts this event in Caspian's honour with the first dance with his daughter to win as well as a surprise. Luna is curious, though, and a certain suspicion makes her feel uneasy. It isn't that Caspian takes part in such fights, he can handle himself and – apart from a few cuts and bruises – everyone will probably come out just fine. The Crown Shield can't place it, really, it may be a mere feeling.
