Chapter 22

Two weeks Lucy laid upon Caspian's giant bed without waking. Worrying the man who sat in the window seat rarely leaving. Caspian parted ways with Carter four days ago, only after Carter was reassured of Lucy's wellbeing. Caspian had repeatedly told Carter of his plans for Lucy. It was only after Carter sat in silence as watched Caspian gently urging broth into Lucy's mouth that he was completely satisfied with leaving Lucy in this man's hands.

Leaning his head against the chilled window Caspian's eyes searched the stars until they landed on the familiar form of Zosma, the Delta Leonis. A form the locals named after the mighty Aslan. "Do something," he begged, "please." Squeezing his eyes closed he inhaled a long deep ragged breath.

"Capsian?"

His head shot forward to see Lucy's brilliant eyes staring back at him. She was smiling at him, though her coloring had still not improved. Her clammy skin was easily blendable with the pale sheet that rested just below her chin.

Caspian rushed to her side taking her right hand within both of his. "You're awake. How do you feel?"

"Tired, but from the looks of you," She smiled again. "I have slept long enough."

"You needed your rest." He assured her bringing her palm to rest against his stubble cheek. "Don't worry, we will be home soon and all will be well."

The remainder of the voyage was uneventful. Lucy first remained in bed until after she gained her strength back, than began taking short strolls on deck with the aid of Caspian or Eustace.

They arrived back home to a joyous fanfare. People lined the streets to celebrate the success of the trip, as well as many who welcomed home their missed loved ones with open arms.

Upon reaching the castle, Lucy was surprised to see Ulisia and Camberlin standing proudly at the top of the stone steps. As the party dismounted and made their way to the castle doors. Ulisia made a spectacle of herself by running to meet Caspian and kissing him in front of the kingdom.

Lucy laughed, for among the cheers very faintly were softs boos. Many watched as Caspian embarrassingly pulled the locked girl from around his neck.

"Please," he cleared his throat, "may I have a moment to wash properly?"

Camberlin laughed as he joined his daughter and future son-in-law, playfully slapping Caspian on his back. "Of course, my boy. Your men should rest and bathe for tonight," he looked towards the crowd throwing his arms wide, "we celebrate the return of our king."

The crowd cheered as all turned to wave. Eustace hooked Lucy's arm through his own. "These kings and their parties. Let's show them how to really party, eh Lucy?"

Lucy smiled everyone walked inside, her eyes never leaving the young pair in front of her. It was a reminder that she was still unwanted in Narnia. She smiled to her cousin, "Yes that would be jaw dropping. Only, what would I wear?"

Again they laughed as the castle doors closed shut behind them.

Eustace came through when earlier he informed Lucy not to worry about her dress. She was draped in silk and satin of silver and violet vining their way against a pearl background. The bodice was tight against her chest accenting her upper curve, and at her narrow waist it explained outwards into a full skirt. It was one of the most beautiful ball gowns Lucy had ever worn, in London and in Narnia. It was so delicate that she was afraid even touching it would ding its beauty.

Her hair was another matter entirely. Eustace had instructed one of the maids to take extra time with her hair. Taking a hot iron from the burning coals of the fire, curling a small portion of hair, and returning the iron rod back into the coals. A repeated process that took hours. Once complete, she than sewed each curl to the top of Lucy's head; by the time she was done the array of curls were artistically piled atop of her head with small curls framing and enchanting Lucy's face.

Lucy's couldn't recognize her own reflection once she was dressed. She had never thought she looked like a fairytale princess but tonight she truly was. Eustace entered and let out a two toned whistle from back home.

"You look great, Lucy." He smiled and moved to stand behind her. "An angel amongst humans. A princess." Than he frowned. "No, not a princess." He brought his hand to the top of her head and pressed lightly. When he removed them Lucy's Narnian crown was sitting in its rightful place atop of her head. "A queen. High Queen Lucy."

Lucy couldn't contain the tears and her shaking fingers brushed the diamonds and jewels imbedded into gold. "Where did you find this?"

Eustace shrugged, "At the castle, when Caspian first started construction. I figured you might want it back some day."

Lucy spun on her heels and embraced Eustace in a hug. "Thank you, Eustace. You have made tonight perfectly wonderful."

Eustace laughed as he looked down at his cousin, "And just think we haven't even attended the ball." Stepping back he bowed, "Your Majesty, may I have the honor of escorting High Queen Lucy to tonight's gala?"

Lucy giggled and curtsied, "The honor is all mine, dear sir."

They walked down flights of steps until they reached the active ballroom filled with guest. A satyr stood proudly at the top of the stairs announcing new arrivals. When he saw Lucy and Eustace he smiled and bowed. Upon standing he called out, in a voice that rang throughout the room.

"Announcing her Royal Highness, High Queen Lucy of Narnia, and her escort, Sir Eustace."

One by one the room lowered into bows and curtsies until only one man stood. His eyes transfixed upon the goddess staring at him.

Caspian.

A/N:

Hello one and all!

I am so sorry this has taken FOREVER to post but I was debating how long I wanted it to be as well as rethinking some new PLOT TWIST! At the moment this story can take eighteen different turns. It's all on how the next few chapters come out. But I hope you enjoyed this little teaser. Would love to get some feedback from you.

THANKS FOR READING!

~KyssMe007