Lysander bowed his head to the King and [i]his lady[/i] "Indeed, and goodnight. I know when I am no longer needed." He smiled then stood, stiffly, and left to retire. 

[i]'Best let them enjoy their time together while they still may. The more they grow attached to one another the easier they will be to manipulate...' [/i]

Meanwhile, Caspian sighed. He felt reassured as Celine's hand coiled around his own. "Celine... I shall with all my heart strive to be worthy of your trust and faith." He turned to her. "I only wish that it was not this tragedy that had brought you to the shores of Narnia..." Their hands clasped, her voice was soft and affectionate. "I will fight for you and your people, summon Aslan, and save your people because it is right... but I also harbor a selfish hope in my heart that... after we find peace we might... spend more time... together..."

He could feel his heartbeat in his ears. He remembered the mouse urging him to be forward with the girl, and declare his intentions honorably. Yet, here, holding hands, alone, their eyes locked, wasn't it obvious? Yet... if it was so obvious, and the words so certain, why were the so hard to say?

Frankly, it was hard to say anything at all. He was trapped by her gaze now, helpless. He felt like he was a stranded ship set afire whilst crashing against the rocks. Wasn't there something more gallant he could say? Poetic? He was the king of Narnia and this was the best he could manage?

"... if you would like."