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.

*

After a breakfast where the crew tries to be calm but fails in hiding the joy of finally setting sail towards home, everyone makes for the docks - this includes, of course, the crew of the Dawn Treader as well as the entire household of Lord Bern and further guests. Rhince and his family set over from Narrowhaven early to say goodbye. To Luna's relieve, Helaine seems happier than the previous day - maybe a possible future away from these isles brightened the woman's spirits. She pulls the warrior into a warm embrace of silent understanding,

» Have a good journey, « her voice drops for her next words,

» And congratulations. « Luna blinks, only mildly surprised - she is wearing a ring, after all. She smiles at the couple as Rhince slings an arm around his wife and daughter each,

» Farewell, my friends. I hope to see you again sooner than later. « They chuckle, waving as the warrior continues the round of goodbyes in what feels like a whirlwind.

» You'll write, will you? « Sanna hugs her new friend tightly,

» I'll write to you as often as a ship leaves for Narnia. « Luna laughs, squeezing the younger once more before stepping back,

» Of course! As soon as I can. « Valanya pats her sister's shoulder before clasping Luna's hands. Their parting wishes are cut short by the youngest daughters of Lord Bern, though. While Teona - as usual - asks a hundred questions, Noemi clutches to the Crown Shield's leg. Looking down into those green, slightly teary eyes, Luna cannot help but pick the girl up to comfort her.

» Tete, dear, I'm sure you will meet Lady Luna again. « Lady Orianna nudges her granddaughter forward,

» Now say goodbye. « With a mumbled apology the girl places her arms around Luna's waist, expertly avoiding her younger sister's feet.

» Bye, « she presses out. The warrior hesitates, a little overwhelmed with two children clutching onto her. Lady Melian comes to her aid, taking Noemi. After sending the older woman a thankful smile, Luna bends down to Teona,

» How about I'll write to you too? « she offers,

» And, some time, you all visit Narnia, huh? « Teona nods, a twinkle springs to her eyes,

» Then you'll teach me to fight? «

» If your parents allow it – I promise there will be lessons. «

Meanwhile Caspian makes sure to exchange a few parting words with everyone. In comparison to their prior visits of islands in the Eastern Sea, this is by far his favorite. The people here seem different, easier to talk to maybe – with exceptions, of course. Altogether the king feels the connections he made are not solely for political purposes. He treasures the relationship with Lord Bern, a man he can look up to. Someone who knows the Telmarines and the Narnians, managing to mend his strict upbringing with the come true fairytales. Someone who sees the wrongs of this world and tries to better them – sometimes even risking his own safety while seeking peace. And someone who knew Caspian's father well. The lord smiles at the young king, clasping his forearm with one hand and his shoulder with the other. Though wrinkles frame his eyes they have a spark in them Caspian has rarely seen.

» Safe passage, my king, « Bern chuckles as the younger bows his head. It is clear that such formal salutation from an older friend makes Caspian uneasy. Yet, the way the lord says it is warm, affectionate, and still respectful.

» May we meet again soon, « the young king smiles,

» Cair Paravel will always welcome you. « Now Lord Bern bows his head in thanks, letting go.

» We are honoured to visit as soon as the islands are in better shape, « he glances at Melian with such contentment, Cas wishes this to be himself in a few years. His heart swells at the thought of the last evening which made such a future very possible. As the lord leans closer, he snaps out of these daydreams,

» One last thing, Your Majesty... « Caspian follows Bern's line of sight to the gangway where four of the formerly lost lords wait to board. They will accompany them to Narnia, eager to see their families and their old home again.

» Please keep an eye on them. Getting used to the new Narnia could be... difficult. « The king considers this for a moment before giving a graceful nod.

Luna finds herself at the end of the line with Lord Bern and Lady Melian who holds Noemi's hand. Caspian bows to their hostess and turns to her husband, making space for Luna. Melian smiles motherly, pulling the warrior close.

» Thank you for everything, « says Luna. Their hostess chuckles, stroking her back before releasing her to arm's length. Placing a hand on the younger's cheek, she tilts her head slightly,

» It was a pleasure. Farewell, dear, and write if you need anything. « They share a last smile before Luna turns to the gangway, following Cas aboard the Dawn Treader.

The people on the quay wave and call last farewells to the majestic ship and her crew. The king and his Crown Shield stand up on the front deck, out of the sailors' way, waving as well. Occasionally, their hands brush and they share a timid, sideway smile. Drinian, Tavros and Rynelf bellow orders to row out of the small harbor and into the strait between the three isles. Luna's eyes trail over the crowd. She isn't fond of yet another goodbye and will miss their newfound friends. Though, unlike others, there is hope to see them again. She turns her head towards Caspian, noting his gaze wandering as well. In his eyes, however, stands less sadness upon their parting as a sparkling joy to return home. As if he feels her gaze rest on him, his hand encloses hers.

» Onwards, « says the king,

» To old and new horizons. «

*

The Dawn Treader glides through the water, pushed by the strength of the men at the oars. Drinian stands at the wheel, contently. The wind brushes up and soon will redeem the sailors from this duty. A strange solemnity takes hold of the captain's heart. Despite being an old sea bear whose home are the trusted planks, the creaks of sails and ropes and the wind tugging twirling around him, he longs to see Narnia again. Seeing he was raised a Telmarine all that proves they have come a long way since the revolution. And with King Caspian he is hopeful all that should further improve – especially with a queen at the young monarch's side. Drinian smirks ever so slightly as his eyes come to rest on the fresh couple. They fit together nicely, he must admit, and they make each other happy. That is a fact the entire crew is certain of; their expressions and demeanor in each other's presence attests it clear as day. The captain only wishes the rest of the Narnians to be as receptive to this relationship as the sailors.

Anyways, he sighs, turning back to his duties. The Dawn Treader reaches the mouth of the strait between the Lone Islands. The waters to come will be easy enough to manoeuvre – compared to the seas beyond the isles just about everything seems easy. He huffs, giving the order to adjust the course north-west. Onwards home.

*

All the while, Elrik grins from ear to ear. He simply can't help it. Seeing his dear friend at the king's side, their shy smiles, and touches, is heart-warming. Sailing with someone means to always be in close quarters, spending lots of time together. So, naturally, it also means getting to know people well. Luna and Elrik have been acquaintances before this voyage, if not friends. Now, the young sailor is proud to call her a good friend – their lassie. And as such, he could tell something is going on between Caspian and her before even King Edmund grew suspicious. He wishes them well; may Aslan have an eye on them.

With that the sailor returns his full attention back to their surroundings. From his position in the crow's nest he can still make out the Lone Islands shrinking behind them. Far on the western horizon the Calormene coast is a thin, golden line. A shudder runs down Elrik's spine at the thought of said country. He has seen the cruelty of war, felt it. Gruesome and gory. Becoming a sailor whisked him away from all of it, pushed back the memories, just as he intended. The ocean, however, is cruel in another way. Though, at least, it washes away the blood from wounds it cut. He blinks to drown the resurfacing echoes of the past. There, something catches his eye. Something moves in the distance. He quickly snatches the telescope from the second lookout. As he finds the spot again, only the water moves, sloshing against rocky islands. It must have been merely a shadow.

Hey everyone!

Writing the main part of this, I sat by the ocean on vacation. Now, I'm back home and present you this new chapter. I hope you have a great summer? And please let me know what you think.

~ Lola