Disclaimer: I don't own Narnia or any characters you may recognize from the books or the movies, I wish I did but I don't...
Summary: "Swimming is freedom."
A/N: This snippet was requested by Lady Hannah and is part of my A Light in the Darkness universe. Enjoy!
The Freedom of the Waves
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The water was not too cold. In fact, it was quite pleasant in the warmth of the summer sun. Long, graceful strokes carried her to the surface briefly. A single glance was all she needed to confirm that the beach was still deserted. She dove back down and a swift kick propelled her forward. There were seashells of the most beautiful colors littering the sand. Vibrant reds, regal purples, indigos, even greens and yellows. She swam toward them and plucked three of the most delicate spiral-shaped shells, red, purple, and indigo, then deposited them in the small bag hanging from her waist. They would be perfect for her beading.
She surfaced again, taking a deep breath, and then floated on her back. The movement of the waves was soothing and beckoned her to forget the troubles of yesterday. Soon enough she would have to return and resume her responsibilities but for now she could rest. The gentle warmth of the sun kissed her upturned face and she let out a sigh. It was a pity she could not stay out here long enough for all her cares to simply float away.
The soft warning cry of a Hawk reached her ears. The signal from Neera. With a sigh, she dove beneath the surface once more. The sea seemed reluctant to release her and she was reluctant to leave, but it was past time to return to her duties. Surfacing behind the shelter of a trio of large rocks, she waded to shore. Only two of her ladies were waiting. The Nymph held out a long, dark cloak, which she wrapped around her shoulders, concealing her wet shift. The young Doe pricked her leaf-like ears. "Did you enjoy your swim, Your Majesty?"
"Yes, Faline, thank you." She handed the bag holding the seashells to the Nymph. "Would you see these are dried while I go up and change?"
"Yes, Your Majesty."
Faline walked alongside her as she hurried up to the Cair. "When will your brothers and sister be looking for you, Your Majesty?"
"Not for some time. I believe my brothers are still at the good General's mercy and my sister is still abed." She pulled her cloak closer together as she passed a group of soldiers but they only bowed respectfully, murmuring quiet good mornings.
It was not until she entered her chambers that Faline spoke again. "May I ask, Your Majesty, why do you not wish anyone to know you go swimming most morns?"
Susan looked at the Doe then smiled. "Swimming is one of the few pleasures I may claim in private. And if it were known that the Gentle Queen enjoyed swimming in the Eastern Sea as much as her sister, how would I escape my odious suitors? They come and sit while I sew or attempt to accompany me when I go riding or for a picnic. Swimming is one of the few pleasures I do not share with suitors or petitioners save for the occasional Mermaid who desires I carry a message to my sister. Swimming is freedom."
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A/N: Please Read and Review! So Lady Hannah wanted to know what the girls do for fun and this is what Susan revealed. Leave a review and let me know what y'all thought about this one.
