FANFIC | Of Hearts Unknown - Chapter 03
Title - Of Hearts Unknown - CHAPTER THREE: Obligations
Author - Kitoky
Fandom - Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian (Movie Verse)
Characters/Pairings - All; Susan/Caspian
Rating - Chapter Rating: T, Overall: M
Status - Not Complete
Summary - Summary - It was supposed to be simple. They open the gates, draw the bridge, and infiltrate the castle. It was supposed to be simple, but not easy.
WARNING - This is basically an alternative story to Prince Caspian. It's movie!based but there are some book-mentions for background information. Chapter rated T for some violence. Also very unbeta'd.
Disclaimer - All rights go to CS Lewis and Walden Media [and not Disney because I'm being petty and angry with them].
Of Hearts Unknown - Chapter Three: Obligations
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The two Kings of Old and their fellow centaur comrades arrived swiftly back to the How where they called a meeting immediately. Glenstorm greeted their return with a respectful bow and escorted them back inside. Peter quickly asked the three centaurs to gather all the troop leaders to the war room along with Queen Lucy.
“You both took much longer than I had anticipated,” the centaur said. “Gibri delivered Caspian three hours ago.”
“We weren’t exactly coming back by Gryphons,” said Edmund, ducking his head to avoid the solid stone edge of the entranceway as he rode his horse into the How. Peter followed suit, as did Glenstorm.
“We were able to discover something interesting though, and it might give us a chance to strike back against the Telmarines,” Peter said. He dismounted off of Destrier and patting the sturdy horse. “Mighty fine horse you are. You tread very lightly…”
“My Kings, can we risk another attack on the castle again? Our numbers have nearly been cut in half.” The centaur was right to have his concerns. Though his loyalty to the Kings and Queens of Old stood unwavering, he had his own responsibilities towards his fellow Narnians.
“Rest easy, Glenstorm,” replied Peter. “It won’t be an attack on the castle.”
“And we’ve been discussing the entire way back on how we can avoid having any more Narnians die,” said Edmund, who tied his horse to the make-shift stable in the How. Peter did the same. “Well, as many more Narnians anyways. It’s impossible for there to be no fatalities at all, but we think we’ve got a way to minimize them.”
Peter gave Destrier one last pat beneath the mane and said, “We’ll explain it all soon, but we should get to the others. We don’t have much time.”
The three proceeded to trudge deeper into the How weaving through where the fauns and the minotaurs were producing weapon after weapon to fit the Narnian’s skills. Edmund fell back to inform the minotaur who oversaw the operations to increase their supply of bows and arrows, quickly. The minotaur nodded in response and Edmund thanked him politely, as politely as you may need to be with a minotaur. The Just King did not forget how adamant they stood by the White Witch and how hard it was to win them over during their reign over Narnia.
Edmund joined the others in the war room, sliding in quietly along with some late Mice and Panthers. Lucy waved enthusiastically over to him and Edmund couldn’t help the smile that tugged on his lips. Lucy always made things brighter… even in an age like this. He made his way over to her and sat next to her on the most uncomfortable rock seat in the entire room. Peter took note of all the troop leaders making their way into the meeting and was surprised to see one person of particular importance missing.
“Where’s Caspian?” asked the High King.
Nikabrik was more than happy to answer, “We saw that the boy was of no great benefit to us, so why include him in our meetings at all? When we called him last to discuss how we would rectify his mistake in the Queen’s capture, he didn’t even show.”
Edmund sympathized with Caspian. He cared about Susan as much as they did, but he had the guilt and Peter had been laying it on him hard, even if it was just silent accusations. Edmund knew what it was like to have guilt. Edmund was about to retort, to say something to defend the confused Telmarine prince but someone else beat him to it, and in a way that was far more satisfactory than what he was contemplating.
“Oh, shut up,” Lucy said, completely annoyed with the negative little not-so-dear friend. She ignored all the shocked looks, both from the black dwarf and from her brothers, and turned to Trufflehunter, who she insisted needed to attend the meeting. “Could you please go find Caspian for us?”
Trufflehunter nodded and left the room to retrieve the Telmarine.
Edmund grinned at Lucy and Peter ambled his way over to them. “That was brilliant, Lu,” Edmund said under his breath as the Narnians started to converse amongst themselves and Nikabrik had gone to grumble silently. “Perhaps you’ve learned a bit from us after all.”
“Let’s hope that I don’t learn your big-headedness,” quipped Lucy, giving Edmund a playful smile and Peter a long look. Peter gripped his sword and looked away, knowing what the Valiant Queen was implying. She had not quite forgiven him for doing what he thought was right… at the time. They waited a few minutes for the last of the leaders to arrive and finally Caspian, who slumped in behind Trufflehunter, clearly nervous about being summoned.
Peter gave him a solid look, something akin to a look that said ‘Stop moping and sit down.’ Peter shifted a bit. ‘Please?’ he silently added and Caspian obliged, settling himself next to Bulgy the Bear.
“Narnians,” Peter addressed them all. “Wise centaurs, brave dwarves, good fauns, courageous Mice. Our last offensive strike against the Telmarines wounded us deeply in our numbers, something I may take full responsibility for.” At this, Lucy and Caspian looked up in surprise. Lucy because he knew her brother was as stubborn as a mule about his mistakes and Caspian because he had fully taken the blame already. “But it was not completely in vain. If anything, we have learned that we are strong against adversities and adamant against overwhelming odds. I give you my thanks, my respect, and my loyalty to you as your King. And as your King, and fellow soldier, stand by me again as we make another attack on the Telmarines.” His jaw tensed and he saw the hesitation and even outrage is some of their faces.
“We can’t afford another attack on their castle,” Nikabrik spat. “We’ve lost half of our army! For what? To see if we’re good enough to injure the Telmarines? We know we can do it! We can do it by our own terms!” Few of the others agreed with the dwarf’s proclamation, though none had the courage to speak it.
“Then it will be on our own terms that we make this next attack,” Peter volleyed back and looked around encouragingly at the others. “The raid was on Telmarine grounds, and they had the clear advantage in territory, but it will be on our territory that we can strike them hard.”
A faun spoke up, “How do you suppose that will happen? We can’t exactly just lure them out into the forest.”
“They’ve already come,” Edmund said. “A portion of the Telmarines will be traveling along the Great River from Cair Paravel tomorrow evening.”
“Cair Paravel?” Lucy asked, “What were they doing there?”
“Hopefully just to see the sights,” Peter responded. “We have reason to believe that Susan is still alive and have misdirected the Telmarines.”
“How do you know?” Nikabrik asked, harshly. “Where are the Mice? Did they tell you this?”
“No,” said Peter, unconsciously gripping his sword tighter.
“Then perhaps this is another one of your foolish missions just to get more of us killed!” Nikabrik was shouting at this point. “Perhaps it’s a trap set by the Telmarines to draw us out of the How. We’re not safe outside these walls!”
“And you’re barely safe within them, you---,” Peter stopped himself, his anger starting to swell up inside.
“I believe him.” A new voice sounded. Both Nikabrik and Peter turned to see Trumpkin, standing up from his seat beside Edmund.
“Why?” Nikabrik asked angrily.
“The Telmarines could never stage an ambush near those ruins,” Trumpkin said, standing. “In order to get there straight from their castle, they would need to cut through the River Rush and we all know there are no crossings. All along that river is nothing but trees. It’s a poor path for any army. There’s no reason for them to stage an ambush there. If they were to do that, it would’ve been all the wiser to stop before the Great River splits into the Rush.”
Peter gave the red dwarf a grateful nod. “We’ll have archers stationed in the trees along both sides of the river and from the front. We’ll have to split into three parties and our line of communication will be through the Gryphons. When the Telmarines pour along the River, we fire. We need as many archers as we can. Anyone who has any skills in the bow, or have had at least some minimal experience, will be useful. Here’s an opportunity to give them a punch, however small. Are you all with me?”
There was a momentary pause among the Narnians and Peter was afraid that he had lost them. He looked around, tension escalating in him until Glenstorm came forth and gave a bow, “We have sworn our allegiance to you, My King. We intend to keep it.” Other centaurs followed this example and to his great surprise, the minotaurs were the next. Soon the Leopards and the Tigers came forth, along with the fauns and the Hedgehogs. Peter smiled triumphantly, pride and confidence filling him once more.
He returned a bow of his own, “My allegiance is also yours, dear Narnians.”
“Will you be leading us, King Peter?” A Knightly Mouse spoke up, his tail swaying here and there.
“No,” Peter said, and Edmund frowned. “Caspian will.”
At this, everyone looked at the Telmarine prince, who was still rooted in his spot.
“Me?” Caspian asked, wide-eyed. “But I…”
“You know the Telmarines’ tactics better than anyone here. You’re the right person for the job,” said Peter and glanced around. “Go. Inform your troops, gather as many available. Prepare to leave early tomorrow morning.”
~*~*~*~
"Look at this, Susan!" cried Lucy. The fourteen year old grabbed a hold of her sister's arm and pointed through the window of the shop. Susan turned back, her other arm weighed down by the bags of groceries that their mother had sent them off to buy. She peered through the dirty window to see what Lucy was pointing at. Her eyes landed on a small statuette of a mighty lion, almost a mock up of the monument in the city. "It looks so much like Aslan! And the background of the statue, it looks as though he was on the rocky cliffs at Beruna." her sister said with such enthusiasm.
"Aslan?" scoffed Susan. "Is that from that little world of yours again?"
Lucy frowned up at her sister, "You really should stop it, Susan. I know why you're doing this."
"Doing what?" she asked incredulously. "Just because you haven't quite grown up doesn't mean I have to always play along, Lu. I don't quite have your imagination. Or would you like me to talk about the flying unicorn that made friends with the lame tortoise just yesterday afternoon?"
Her little sister didn't say anything back, but there was an expression of defiance on her face and a hint of hurt as well. Susan sighed, feeling guilty. She was being horrible, just like Edmund when they first went to live with Professor Kirke during the early years of the war.
"I'm sorry, Lucy. It's just.... I don't know what you're talking about half the time and it's hard. Come on, Mum's expecting us soon."
Lucy didn’t move against the hand that tugged at her shoulders and squinted up at her against the sun, "You mean... you really don't remember?" Her eyes were hopeful as though she really did wish Susan would stop acting so unreasonable and just join her in the memories of Narnia even if neither could go back anymore.
Susan stared down at her, getting an unsettling feeling as though she had not been quite awake her entire life. Even if she slept, she did not truly sleep and she actually was missing part of her life, something forgotten that should not have been.
"I..." She stumbled on her feet, dropping the bags. Her head felt heavy and she pressed her hand against her hair. "I..."
"Susan? You don't remember?"
Susan looked up to her sister again, but it was not her sister, but someone else, another girl that had her sister's face but was dressed in some sort of intricate dress from the Middle Ages. Lucy's gaze was void and uncaring, so very different from who Lucy was.
"You don't remember then, Susan? Really?"
"Ahh," Susan cried out as the ache in her head grew and she braced the ledge of the window for support. "Oh my... it hurts." She turned into the window and looked up unconsciously to the statuette that Lucy had pointed out, and was surprised to see that it was missing from its copper base and in it's place a real lion moved around freely. His mane swished in an invisible wind, his tail flicked in an almost cat-like fashion.
The lion gradually grew to a great size, too big to fit in the small window of the shop. It set its eyes on her and she stumbled backwards away in fear.
With a great roar, it leapt at her breaking the glass and her sight was engulfed by the image of sad eyes, giant whiskers, and long fangs.
Susan gasped, a scream being muffled in her throat as she sat up abruptly. Her hands were still chained and she had only been slouching uncomfortably against the wall behind her. It was the second dream she’s had since her imprisonment. She knew they weren’t memories as she wasn’t familiar with any part. Not Peter saving her from a social party, and certainly not her trip to the grocer’s with Lucy. Their mother had never let them go to the markets alone. Susan shifted from her position and only groaned when she settled herself in another uncomfortable angle.
She didn’t know how long she’d been asleep, but if her recent dream had any indication, not for very long. Susan was disgusted to hear the fireworks scream and the people cheer as Miraz was crowned King. Afterwards, she listened closely to the shakes and noises that rang throughout the castle as Miraz released his army to march towards Cair Paravel (she hoped).
A squeak sounded out and she was certain it was not her. Looking around suspiciously, she jumped a bit when she caught sight of Reepicheep gazing up at her.
“My Lady!”
“Oh, dear Aslan…” Susan sighed, “You are more stealthy than I anticipated, but it is good to see a familiar face.”
Reepicheep smiled and left the cell through the gaps in the door briefly to retrieve his fellow Mice.
“Quite the rescuing committee,” Susan chuckled to herself. Reepicheep jumped onto the Queen’s knee and scuttled upwards to the locks of her chains, keying them with his rapier. With a click and another click, Susan’s arms fell limply and she sighed in relief. “Thank you, Reep.”
“We were ordered to simply see if Your Majesty was still alive and we are relieved to find that you are,” Reepicheep bowed. “We believe we have secured a passageway out. Erphus awaits us outside.”
Susan only nodded and stood. One of the Mice had long since picked the lock of the cell and swung the door open.
“Wait,” gasped Susan. “My quiver… and my bow!”
“There is no time, My Queen.” Reepicheep cried, “We must leave.”
Susan hesitated, but nodded once more, following the Good Mouse out of the cell and up the stairs with the other Mice trailing her. She was following Reepicheep blindly, as she has not seen much of the castle aside from during the raid and from inside her cell. Susan made sure her steps were light and that she didn’t peak too far at any place without Reepicheep’s direction. They turned down a hall and spotted two guards roaming towards them from the other end. Reepicheep ushered Susan back and gestured to his two Mice to take care of it. They both obliged and slinked their way along the sides of the wall, hidden and unnoticed.
As they heard the swiping of small metal rapiers, Reepicheep darted across the hall and Susan followed him closely. The sound of footsteps surprised them and both the Good Mouse and the Gentle Queen turned to see three Telmarine guards and a man Susan noticed dressed much like the man who had interrogated her earlier.
“It’s the prisoner!” The man cried, and pushed the guards to attack.
“Run, My Queen!” Reepicheep pressed quietly. They charged and Reepicheep had only the opportunity to engage one. Susan didn’t like the idea of leaving Reepicheep behind but she obeyed, missing the precious gifts that Father Christmas had given her.
She was quick to realize that she had no idea where she was running, she just ran. Susan could feel her heart beat rapidly against her chest as she heard the echoes of the rapid footsteps of the Telmarines going after her. She could almost feel them closing in on her until she heard cries and distinct swipes of a blade. Susan turned to see that there were was no longer anyone in pursuit of her. As she glanced back, her throat was captured in a tight hold and she stared up at the menacing eyes of the man that ordered the guards to go after them.
“There’s no escaping here, girl,” he gritted through his teeth, and she grabbed at his hand only causing him to hold on tighter. “My, you are a pretty one. If only I had gotten to you first, you would be treated much more… pleasantly.”
He pulled back slightly when more Telmarines scurried up to them, “Lord Donnon?” one of the asked.
Lord Donnon pulled her and threw her out to the guards, who grabbed her forcibly. “You had better keep a better watch on this girl. She may be the key to winning this silly battle against those filthy animals. I want her locked up, in a different cell, and put two locks on her door. Have two men posted outside her cell and two men outside the dungeons.”
“Yes, My Lord,” they replied in chorus and Susan struggled in their grasp. She gave him a glare and he only looked down his nose at her in response.
Susan hoped that next time if she should have the opportunity to escape, she’d have her bow and arrows.
If there was next time.
~*~*~*~
“Caspian?” Edmund repeated, flabbergasted. “You’re letting Caspian lead? Why?” The Just King watched his brother test out a crossbow in the weapons room. Peter angled it, and aimed with it. Lucy observed them both curiously, mulling over her own thoughts about this next attempt at an attack without Aslan.
“You said yourself that I can’t expect him to be the perfect leader,” Peter said, juggling the crossbow again to see its weight. He shook his head and threw it back into the pile and picked up a true bow. “So here’s his chance to learn.”
“By telling him that he’ll be in charge of an already risky attack on the Telmarines?” Edmund crossed his arms, “You might as well ask me to lead.”
“Don’t be like that,” Peter grumbled and tugged at the bowstring. “Besides I’ve got another job for you, a more important job.” At this, he looked over at Lucy and she raised her eyebrows in response.
Edmund glanced between Peter and Lucy, furrowing his brows and his frown deepening. “You’re not letting me come with you? You’re going to need as many men as possible.”
“I’ve got it, okay?” Peter said, picking out sturdy arrows. “Besides, you’ve always been a poor shot with the bow even with Susan’s attempts at teaching you.”
At this Edmund’s face turned permanently sour and Lucy gave a small smile.
Peter dropped a few arrows into a quiver and placed it aside, going to sit beside Lucy. “I think it’s time I’ve admitted my mistake, Lu. Will you forgive me?”
Lucy only smiled at her brother, whose eyes begged with a playfulness that she had missed since they ran into Caspian. “It’s not me you should be asking,” she said and moved to hug him. “But for all intents and purposes, I do forgive you.” Peter laughed quietly and return her hug.
“So what’s this you want us to do? Build a fire? Make treaties for everyone when they get back?” Edmund asked.
Peter gave him a look and Lucy stared up at her oldest brother in curiosity.
“I want you two to go search for Aslan,” he said finally. Lucy smiled at him gleefully and gave him another forceful hug.
“Search for Aslan? Who knows how long that will take.” Edmund said. “What if something happens?”
The High King only shook his head, “Don’t worry about that. I’ll handle it. Between Caspian and I, we can hold the weight. I want you specifically to go with Lucy, I only trust you and Susan with her.”
“I don’t need to be looked after, Peter.” Lucy said defiantly and got up in her anxiousness to look for Aslan.
“Remember the wild bear, Lu?” Peter got up as well and placed a hand on her shoulder. “I would feel better if Edmund went with you.” He looked up at the aforementioned Pevensie. “Will you? Please.”
Edmund gave his brother an ‘are you stupid?’ look. “Of course I will.”
Lucy grinned at Edmund and Peter nodded to them both, “Two Gryphons will go with you, just in case.”
Lucy had scrambled to unlock the cover for her cordial and pulled it out, “Here. If something happens, you should use this.”
Peter covered up the cordial with his hand, shoving it back into her palm and closing her fingers over it. “No, this is yours and must always stay with you. Don’t worry, Lu. I’ll see you both off in the morning when we leave. For now, get some sleep.”
“You as well, Peter,” Lucy said. “You’re driving yourself to your end with all this.”
Peter took up his bow and quiver. “I know,” he said and left the room to leave Lucy and Edmund to discuss what they needed to prepare for the search. He strapped the quiver on his shoulder and readjusted it against the belt of his sword. He had never used a crossbow and felt more comfortable with the bow. He was never near as good as Susan, but he could make some shots. Peter turned down a tunnel that led to the outdoors, intending to get in some practice. He was just about able to see the exit when he heard someone call him.
He turned and Caspian came running to him, holding the hilt of his sword in its sheath. Peter looked down and noticed Reepicheep as well.
“Good Reepicheep!” said Peter. “What news? Is she alive? Where are your men?”
Reepicheep bowed, a sad expression on his whiskers. “My Queen is alive and moderately well, My King.” Peter looked up at Caspian who mirrored an expression of relief. “We had attempted to rescue Her Majesty but we were foiled and, in the process, lost two of my men.”
Peter relayed his sympathies, “Their deaths will be honored for their bravery in the attempt to rescue Queen Susan. Thank you, Reepicheep. If you find your men, they would be happy to inform you of our next battle plan.” The Mouse bowed once more and withdrew himself to do so.
“She’s safe,” Caspian smiled.
“No, she’s alive,” Peter said. “So let’s make sure we make the best of what she’s set up for us.”
Caspian nodded and swallowed. “King Peter… may I ask. Why do you choose me to lead this operation? Not mere hours ago, you were making it quite clear what you felt about me.”
Peter sighed, “I’ve realized that although you’re an idiot--” Caspian winced, “--and impulsive--” another wince. “You do everything for the Narnians and you were willing to die for my sister, although I have to say once again, very stupid in hindsight. You’ve got good intentions, Caspian, but you’re still too new to all this. I think you’re little in over your head.”
Caspian looked down in silent admission.
“As am I,” Peter added. “You know more about the Telmarines than anyone here, and I can teach you how to lead these Narnians. The promises you made to them if they helped you win this war will mean nothing if you don’t win it. You owe it to them, so don’t go martyring yourself. Susan… as much as I’d hate to admit this, she can handle herself. You have an obligation to the Narnians, not to Susan.”
The Telmarine prince nodded slowly, largely aware of his promises but his concern for the Queen of Old was still in him. A concern that he had only recently discovered was not just out of respect for the lady. Since their return from the raid, his thoughts were constantly on his mistakes and how she may be faring. He was extraordinarily surprised, and gratefully relieved to hear Reepicheep’s news. Miraz did not keep prisoners alive out of kindness. If Susan was indeed still alive, that would mean one of the Lords had particular interest in her and have convinced Miraz of her uses. But who? He wondered.
“You should get some rest, Caspian.” Peter said and moved to the exit.
Caspian watched him leave before saying, “Thank you.” He had tremendous respect for the High King and was grateful for this opportunity to prove himself.
The High King paused in his step, and tilted his head a bit before continuing on his path to the outside.
.:..:..:..:..:..:..:..:..:..:.
End Chapter 03.
Author - Kitoky
Fandom - Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian (Movie Verse)
Characters/Pairings - All; Susan/Caspian
Rating - Chapter Rating: T, Overall: M
Status - Not Complete
Summary - Summary - It was supposed to be simple. They open the gates, draw the bridge, and infiltrate the castle. It was supposed to be simple, but not easy.
WARNING - This is basically an alternative story to Prince Caspian. It's movie!based but there are some book-mentions for background information. Chapter rated T for some violence. Also very unbeta'd.
Disclaimer - All rights go to CS Lewis and Walden Media [and not Disney because I'm being petty and angry with them].
Of Hearts Unknown - Chapter Three: Obligations
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The two Kings of Old and their fellow centaur comrades arrived swiftly back to the How where they called a meeting immediately. Glenstorm greeted their return with a respectful bow and escorted them back inside. Peter quickly asked the three centaurs to gather all the troop leaders to the war room along with Queen Lucy.
“You both took much longer than I had anticipated,” the centaur said. “Gibri delivered Caspian three hours ago.”
“We weren’t exactly coming back by Gryphons,” said Edmund, ducking his head to avoid the solid stone edge of the entranceway as he rode his horse into the How. Peter followed suit, as did Glenstorm.
“We were able to discover something interesting though, and it might give us a chance to strike back against the Telmarines,” Peter said. He dismounted off of Destrier and patting the sturdy horse. “Mighty fine horse you are. You tread very lightly…”
“My Kings, can we risk another attack on the castle again? Our numbers have nearly been cut in half.” The centaur was right to have his concerns. Though his loyalty to the Kings and Queens of Old stood unwavering, he had his own responsibilities towards his fellow Narnians.
“Rest easy, Glenstorm,” replied Peter. “It won’t be an attack on the castle.”
“And we’ve been discussing the entire way back on how we can avoid having any more Narnians die,” said Edmund, who tied his horse to the make-shift stable in the How. Peter did the same. “Well, as many more Narnians anyways. It’s impossible for there to be no fatalities at all, but we think we’ve got a way to minimize them.”
Peter gave Destrier one last pat beneath the mane and said, “We’ll explain it all soon, but we should get to the others. We don’t have much time.”
The three proceeded to trudge deeper into the How weaving through where the fauns and the minotaurs were producing weapon after weapon to fit the Narnian’s skills. Edmund fell back to inform the minotaur who oversaw the operations to increase their supply of bows and arrows, quickly. The minotaur nodded in response and Edmund thanked him politely, as politely as you may need to be with a minotaur. The Just King did not forget how adamant they stood by the White Witch and how hard it was to win them over during their reign over Narnia.
Edmund joined the others in the war room, sliding in quietly along with some late Mice and Panthers. Lucy waved enthusiastically over to him and Edmund couldn’t help the smile that tugged on his lips. Lucy always made things brighter… even in an age like this. He made his way over to her and sat next to her on the most uncomfortable rock seat in the entire room. Peter took note of all the troop leaders making their way into the meeting and was surprised to see one person of particular importance missing.
“Where’s Caspian?” asked the High King.
Nikabrik was more than happy to answer, “We saw that the boy was of no great benefit to us, so why include him in our meetings at all? When we called him last to discuss how we would rectify his mistake in the Queen’s capture, he didn’t even show.”
Edmund sympathized with Caspian. He cared about Susan as much as they did, but he had the guilt and Peter had been laying it on him hard, even if it was just silent accusations. Edmund knew what it was like to have guilt. Edmund was about to retort, to say something to defend the confused Telmarine prince but someone else beat him to it, and in a way that was far more satisfactory than what he was contemplating.
“Oh, shut up,” Lucy said, completely annoyed with the negative little not-so-dear friend. She ignored all the shocked looks, both from the black dwarf and from her brothers, and turned to Trufflehunter, who she insisted needed to attend the meeting. “Could you please go find Caspian for us?”
Trufflehunter nodded and left the room to retrieve the Telmarine.
Edmund grinned at Lucy and Peter ambled his way over to them. “That was brilliant, Lu,” Edmund said under his breath as the Narnians started to converse amongst themselves and Nikabrik had gone to grumble silently. “Perhaps you’ve learned a bit from us after all.”
“Let’s hope that I don’t learn your big-headedness,” quipped Lucy, giving Edmund a playful smile and Peter a long look. Peter gripped his sword and looked away, knowing what the Valiant Queen was implying. She had not quite forgiven him for doing what he thought was right… at the time. They waited a few minutes for the last of the leaders to arrive and finally Caspian, who slumped in behind Trufflehunter, clearly nervous about being summoned.
Peter gave him a solid look, something akin to a look that said ‘Stop moping and sit down.’ Peter shifted a bit. ‘Please?’ he silently added and Caspian obliged, settling himself next to Bulgy the Bear.
“Narnians,” Peter addressed them all. “Wise centaurs, brave dwarves, good fauns, courageous Mice. Our last offensive strike against the Telmarines wounded us deeply in our numbers, something I may take full responsibility for.” At this, Lucy and Caspian looked up in surprise. Lucy because he knew her brother was as stubborn as a mule about his mistakes and Caspian because he had fully taken the blame already. “But it was not completely in vain. If anything, we have learned that we are strong against adversities and adamant against overwhelming odds. I give you my thanks, my respect, and my loyalty to you as your King. And as your King, and fellow soldier, stand by me again as we make another attack on the Telmarines.” His jaw tensed and he saw the hesitation and even outrage is some of their faces.
“We can’t afford another attack on their castle,” Nikabrik spat. “We’ve lost half of our army! For what? To see if we’re good enough to injure the Telmarines? We know we can do it! We can do it by our own terms!” Few of the others agreed with the dwarf’s proclamation, though none had the courage to speak it.
“Then it will be on our own terms that we make this next attack,” Peter volleyed back and looked around encouragingly at the others. “The raid was on Telmarine grounds, and they had the clear advantage in territory, but it will be on our territory that we can strike them hard.”
A faun spoke up, “How do you suppose that will happen? We can’t exactly just lure them out into the forest.”
“They’ve already come,” Edmund said. “A portion of the Telmarines will be traveling along the Great River from Cair Paravel tomorrow evening.”
“Cair Paravel?” Lucy asked, “What were they doing there?”
“Hopefully just to see the sights,” Peter responded. “We have reason to believe that Susan is still alive and have misdirected the Telmarines.”
“How do you know?” Nikabrik asked, harshly. “Where are the Mice? Did they tell you this?”
“No,” said Peter, unconsciously gripping his sword tighter.
“Then perhaps this is another one of your foolish missions just to get more of us killed!” Nikabrik was shouting at this point. “Perhaps it’s a trap set by the Telmarines to draw us out of the How. We’re not safe outside these walls!”
“And you’re barely safe within them, you---,” Peter stopped himself, his anger starting to swell up inside.
“I believe him.” A new voice sounded. Both Nikabrik and Peter turned to see Trumpkin, standing up from his seat beside Edmund.
“Why?” Nikabrik asked angrily.
“The Telmarines could never stage an ambush near those ruins,” Trumpkin said, standing. “In order to get there straight from their castle, they would need to cut through the River Rush and we all know there are no crossings. All along that river is nothing but trees. It’s a poor path for any army. There’s no reason for them to stage an ambush there. If they were to do that, it would’ve been all the wiser to stop before the Great River splits into the Rush.”
Peter gave the red dwarf a grateful nod. “We’ll have archers stationed in the trees along both sides of the river and from the front. We’ll have to split into three parties and our line of communication will be through the Gryphons. When the Telmarines pour along the River, we fire. We need as many archers as we can. Anyone who has any skills in the bow, or have had at least some minimal experience, will be useful. Here’s an opportunity to give them a punch, however small. Are you all with me?”
There was a momentary pause among the Narnians and Peter was afraid that he had lost them. He looked around, tension escalating in him until Glenstorm came forth and gave a bow, “We have sworn our allegiance to you, My King. We intend to keep it.” Other centaurs followed this example and to his great surprise, the minotaurs were the next. Soon the Leopards and the Tigers came forth, along with the fauns and the Hedgehogs. Peter smiled triumphantly, pride and confidence filling him once more.
He returned a bow of his own, “My allegiance is also yours, dear Narnians.”
“Will you be leading us, King Peter?” A Knightly Mouse spoke up, his tail swaying here and there.
“No,” Peter said, and Edmund frowned. “Caspian will.”
At this, everyone looked at the Telmarine prince, who was still rooted in his spot.
“Me?” Caspian asked, wide-eyed. “But I…”
“You know the Telmarines’ tactics better than anyone here. You’re the right person for the job,” said Peter and glanced around. “Go. Inform your troops, gather as many available. Prepare to leave early tomorrow morning.”
~*~*~*~
"Look at this, Susan!" cried Lucy. The fourteen year old grabbed a hold of her sister's arm and pointed through the window of the shop. Susan turned back, her other arm weighed down by the bags of groceries that their mother had sent them off to buy. She peered through the dirty window to see what Lucy was pointing at. Her eyes landed on a small statuette of a mighty lion, almost a mock up of the monument in the city. "It looks so much like Aslan! And the background of the statue, it looks as though he was on the rocky cliffs at Beruna." her sister said with such enthusiasm.
"Aslan?" scoffed Susan. "Is that from that little world of yours again?"
Lucy frowned up at her sister, "You really should stop it, Susan. I know why you're doing this."
"Doing what?" she asked incredulously. "Just because you haven't quite grown up doesn't mean I have to always play along, Lu. I don't quite have your imagination. Or would you like me to talk about the flying unicorn that made friends with the lame tortoise just yesterday afternoon?"
Her little sister didn't say anything back, but there was an expression of defiance on her face and a hint of hurt as well. Susan sighed, feeling guilty. She was being horrible, just like Edmund when they first went to live with Professor Kirke during the early years of the war.
"I'm sorry, Lucy. It's just.... I don't know what you're talking about half the time and it's hard. Come on, Mum's expecting us soon."
Lucy didn’t move against the hand that tugged at her shoulders and squinted up at her against the sun, "You mean... you really don't remember?" Her eyes were hopeful as though she really did wish Susan would stop acting so unreasonable and just join her in the memories of Narnia even if neither could go back anymore.
Susan stared down at her, getting an unsettling feeling as though she had not been quite awake her entire life. Even if she slept, she did not truly sleep and she actually was missing part of her life, something forgotten that should not have been.
"I..." She stumbled on her feet, dropping the bags. Her head felt heavy and she pressed her hand against her hair. "I..."
"Susan? You don't remember?"
Susan looked up to her sister again, but it was not her sister, but someone else, another girl that had her sister's face but was dressed in some sort of intricate dress from the Middle Ages. Lucy's gaze was void and uncaring, so very different from who Lucy was.
"You don't remember then, Susan? Really?"
"Ahh," Susan cried out as the ache in her head grew and she braced the ledge of the window for support. "Oh my... it hurts." She turned into the window and looked up unconsciously to the statuette that Lucy had pointed out, and was surprised to see that it was missing from its copper base and in it's place a real lion moved around freely. His mane swished in an invisible wind, his tail flicked in an almost cat-like fashion.
The lion gradually grew to a great size, too big to fit in the small window of the shop. It set its eyes on her and she stumbled backwards away in fear.
With a great roar, it leapt at her breaking the glass and her sight was engulfed by the image of sad eyes, giant whiskers, and long fangs.
Susan gasped, a scream being muffled in her throat as she sat up abruptly. Her hands were still chained and she had only been slouching uncomfortably against the wall behind her. It was the second dream she’s had since her imprisonment. She knew they weren’t memories as she wasn’t familiar with any part. Not Peter saving her from a social party, and certainly not her trip to the grocer’s with Lucy. Their mother had never let them go to the markets alone. Susan shifted from her position and only groaned when she settled herself in another uncomfortable angle.
She didn’t know how long she’d been asleep, but if her recent dream had any indication, not for very long. Susan was disgusted to hear the fireworks scream and the people cheer as Miraz was crowned King. Afterwards, she listened closely to the shakes and noises that rang throughout the castle as Miraz released his army to march towards Cair Paravel (she hoped).
A squeak sounded out and she was certain it was not her. Looking around suspiciously, she jumped a bit when she caught sight of Reepicheep gazing up at her.
“My Lady!”
“Oh, dear Aslan…” Susan sighed, “You are more stealthy than I anticipated, but it is good to see a familiar face.”
Reepicheep smiled and left the cell through the gaps in the door briefly to retrieve his fellow Mice.
“Quite the rescuing committee,” Susan chuckled to herself. Reepicheep jumped onto the Queen’s knee and scuttled upwards to the locks of her chains, keying them with his rapier. With a click and another click, Susan’s arms fell limply and she sighed in relief. “Thank you, Reep.”
“We were ordered to simply see if Your Majesty was still alive and we are relieved to find that you are,” Reepicheep bowed. “We believe we have secured a passageway out. Erphus awaits us outside.”
Susan only nodded and stood. One of the Mice had long since picked the lock of the cell and swung the door open.
“Wait,” gasped Susan. “My quiver… and my bow!”
“There is no time, My Queen.” Reepicheep cried, “We must leave.”
Susan hesitated, but nodded once more, following the Good Mouse out of the cell and up the stairs with the other Mice trailing her. She was following Reepicheep blindly, as she has not seen much of the castle aside from during the raid and from inside her cell. Susan made sure her steps were light and that she didn’t peak too far at any place without Reepicheep’s direction. They turned down a hall and spotted two guards roaming towards them from the other end. Reepicheep ushered Susan back and gestured to his two Mice to take care of it. They both obliged and slinked their way along the sides of the wall, hidden and unnoticed.
As they heard the swiping of small metal rapiers, Reepicheep darted across the hall and Susan followed him closely. The sound of footsteps surprised them and both the Good Mouse and the Gentle Queen turned to see three Telmarine guards and a man Susan noticed dressed much like the man who had interrogated her earlier.
“It’s the prisoner!” The man cried, and pushed the guards to attack.
“Run, My Queen!” Reepicheep pressed quietly. They charged and Reepicheep had only the opportunity to engage one. Susan didn’t like the idea of leaving Reepicheep behind but she obeyed, missing the precious gifts that Father Christmas had given her.
She was quick to realize that she had no idea where she was running, she just ran. Susan could feel her heart beat rapidly against her chest as she heard the echoes of the rapid footsteps of the Telmarines going after her. She could almost feel them closing in on her until she heard cries and distinct swipes of a blade. Susan turned to see that there were was no longer anyone in pursuit of her. As she glanced back, her throat was captured in a tight hold and she stared up at the menacing eyes of the man that ordered the guards to go after them.
“There’s no escaping here, girl,” he gritted through his teeth, and she grabbed at his hand only causing him to hold on tighter. “My, you are a pretty one. If only I had gotten to you first, you would be treated much more… pleasantly.”
He pulled back slightly when more Telmarines scurried up to them, “Lord Donnon?” one of the asked.
Lord Donnon pulled her and threw her out to the guards, who grabbed her forcibly. “You had better keep a better watch on this girl. She may be the key to winning this silly battle against those filthy animals. I want her locked up, in a different cell, and put two locks on her door. Have two men posted outside her cell and two men outside the dungeons.”
“Yes, My Lord,” they replied in chorus and Susan struggled in their grasp. She gave him a glare and he only looked down his nose at her in response.
Susan hoped that next time if she should have the opportunity to escape, she’d have her bow and arrows.
If there was next time.
~*~*~*~
“Caspian?” Edmund repeated, flabbergasted. “You’re letting Caspian lead? Why?” The Just King watched his brother test out a crossbow in the weapons room. Peter angled it, and aimed with it. Lucy observed them both curiously, mulling over her own thoughts about this next attempt at an attack without Aslan.
“You said yourself that I can’t expect him to be the perfect leader,” Peter said, juggling the crossbow again to see its weight. He shook his head and threw it back into the pile and picked up a true bow. “So here’s his chance to learn.”
“By telling him that he’ll be in charge of an already risky attack on the Telmarines?” Edmund crossed his arms, “You might as well ask me to lead.”
“Don’t be like that,” Peter grumbled and tugged at the bowstring. “Besides I’ve got another job for you, a more important job.” At this, he looked over at Lucy and she raised her eyebrows in response.
Edmund glanced between Peter and Lucy, furrowing his brows and his frown deepening. “You’re not letting me come with you? You’re going to need as many men as possible.”
“I’ve got it, okay?” Peter said, picking out sturdy arrows. “Besides, you’ve always been a poor shot with the bow even with Susan’s attempts at teaching you.”
At this Edmund’s face turned permanently sour and Lucy gave a small smile.
Peter dropped a few arrows into a quiver and placed it aside, going to sit beside Lucy. “I think it’s time I’ve admitted my mistake, Lu. Will you forgive me?”
Lucy only smiled at her brother, whose eyes begged with a playfulness that she had missed since they ran into Caspian. “It’s not me you should be asking,” she said and moved to hug him. “But for all intents and purposes, I do forgive you.” Peter laughed quietly and return her hug.
“So what’s this you want us to do? Build a fire? Make treaties for everyone when they get back?” Edmund asked.
Peter gave him a look and Lucy stared up at her oldest brother in curiosity.
“I want you two to go search for Aslan,” he said finally. Lucy smiled at him gleefully and gave him another forceful hug.
“Search for Aslan? Who knows how long that will take.” Edmund said. “What if something happens?”
The High King only shook his head, “Don’t worry about that. I’ll handle it. Between Caspian and I, we can hold the weight. I want you specifically to go with Lucy, I only trust you and Susan with her.”
“I don’t need to be looked after, Peter.” Lucy said defiantly and got up in her anxiousness to look for Aslan.
“Remember the wild bear, Lu?” Peter got up as well and placed a hand on her shoulder. “I would feel better if Edmund went with you.” He looked up at the aforementioned Pevensie. “Will you? Please.”
Edmund gave his brother an ‘are you stupid?’ look. “Of course I will.”
Lucy grinned at Edmund and Peter nodded to them both, “Two Gryphons will go with you, just in case.”
Lucy had scrambled to unlock the cover for her cordial and pulled it out, “Here. If something happens, you should use this.”
Peter covered up the cordial with his hand, shoving it back into her palm and closing her fingers over it. “No, this is yours and must always stay with you. Don’t worry, Lu. I’ll see you both off in the morning when we leave. For now, get some sleep.”
“You as well, Peter,” Lucy said. “You’re driving yourself to your end with all this.”
Peter took up his bow and quiver. “I know,” he said and left the room to leave Lucy and Edmund to discuss what they needed to prepare for the search. He strapped the quiver on his shoulder and readjusted it against the belt of his sword. He had never used a crossbow and felt more comfortable with the bow. He was never near as good as Susan, but he could make some shots. Peter turned down a tunnel that led to the outdoors, intending to get in some practice. He was just about able to see the exit when he heard someone call him.
He turned and Caspian came running to him, holding the hilt of his sword in its sheath. Peter looked down and noticed Reepicheep as well.
“Good Reepicheep!” said Peter. “What news? Is she alive? Where are your men?”
Reepicheep bowed, a sad expression on his whiskers. “My Queen is alive and moderately well, My King.” Peter looked up at Caspian who mirrored an expression of relief. “We had attempted to rescue Her Majesty but we were foiled and, in the process, lost two of my men.”
Peter relayed his sympathies, “Their deaths will be honored for their bravery in the attempt to rescue Queen Susan. Thank you, Reepicheep. If you find your men, they would be happy to inform you of our next battle plan.” The Mouse bowed once more and withdrew himself to do so.
“She’s safe,” Caspian smiled.
“No, she’s alive,” Peter said. “So let’s make sure we make the best of what she’s set up for us.”
Caspian nodded and swallowed. “King Peter… may I ask. Why do you choose me to lead this operation? Not mere hours ago, you were making it quite clear what you felt about me.”
Peter sighed, “I’ve realized that although you’re an idiot--” Caspian winced, “--and impulsive--” another wince. “You do everything for the Narnians and you were willing to die for my sister, although I have to say once again, very stupid in hindsight. You’ve got good intentions, Caspian, but you’re still too new to all this. I think you’re little in over your head.”
Caspian looked down in silent admission.
“As am I,” Peter added. “You know more about the Telmarines than anyone here, and I can teach you how to lead these Narnians. The promises you made to them if they helped you win this war will mean nothing if you don’t win it. You owe it to them, so don’t go martyring yourself. Susan… as much as I’d hate to admit this, she can handle herself. You have an obligation to the Narnians, not to Susan.”
The Telmarine prince nodded slowly, largely aware of his promises but his concern for the Queen of Old was still in him. A concern that he had only recently discovered was not just out of respect for the lady. Since their return from the raid, his thoughts were constantly on his mistakes and how she may be faring. He was extraordinarily surprised, and gratefully relieved to hear Reepicheep’s news. Miraz did not keep prisoners alive out of kindness. If Susan was indeed still alive, that would mean one of the Lords had particular interest in her and have convinced Miraz of her uses. But who? He wondered.
“You should get some rest, Caspian.” Peter said and moved to the exit.
Caspian watched him leave before saying, “Thank you.” He had tremendous respect for the High King and was grateful for this opportunity to prove himself.
The High King paused in his step, and tilted his head a bit before continuing on his path to the outside.
.:..:..:..:..:..:..:..:..:..:.
End Chapter 03.