JL Merrow

In this fairytale inspired by a classic children’s story, weaver’s daughter Adrien is tired of turning down marriage proposals. So she disguises herself as a boy and sets out on a journey of discovery, accompanied only by her faithful piglet Ferkel. Rescuing a young monk named Felix from brigands, Adrien agrees to act as bodyguard on his journey to the King’s castle to present the princess with a telescope.<br><br>The lovely Princess Selene has also had more than her fair share of suitors, but she refuses to marry until someone gives her the moon. Felix’s telescope could grant her heart’s desire, but it’s Adrien who finds herself in love with the lively, beautiful princess.<br><br>Astonished to find Selene loves her in return, Adrien’s joy is short-lived. Surely Selene’s love will die when Adrien reveals her true gender? And in any case, two women cannot be married -- can they?

Capture the Moon

Adrien felt sure she too must have been altered by this outdoor life; but whether for good or ill, she neither knew nor greatly cared. It was enough for her that her stride grew longer and more confident, and that she awoke each morning eager for the new day and whatever novel delights might be in store. She noticed, however, that her companion’s steps grew ever slower the closer they came to their destination, and he seemed ever more eager to carry Ferkel whenever the piglet’s young trotters tired. Still, however much Felix’s steps dragged, it was not many days before they found themselves within sight of the king’s castle.


Adrien called to her companion to halt a moment. “Did you ever see such a sight?” she breathed, for the castle was mighty indeed.


“No,” answered Felix with a rueful shrug. “And alas! I cannot see it now, save for a looming, grey cloud that glowers upon the horizon. Sketch it to me, good Adrien, I pray you, that I may see it through your eyes.”


Chapter 6