I own only the idea ;)
Chapter 1: The Invitation
Avaris hadn't meant to spy. Normally at this time of day she would have been with the princes studying. However today King Edmund had appeared at their classroom door and announced that King Lune had sent him to collect Cor. The tutor had then dismissed Avaris and Corin a few minutes later because Corin had tendency to get distracted easily, and when Avaris tried to get him focused again they always ended up fighting. With nothing to do till lunch was served she had decided to go looking for Queen Lucy in the royal garden. It was there that Avaris had then stumbled onto King Lune, King Peter and the rest of the Archenland court and the visiting Narnian lords. They appeared to be discussing something of a serious nature. As a rule she would have kept clear, but just as she was about to turn and leave she heard Cor's name. Her curiosity getting the better of her she ducked behind a convenient magnolia tree, to listen.
"…there are times when I see that he still conducts himself as if he were a slave, By Aslan your majesty I don't know what to do" lamented King Lune.
"It will take some time for Prince Cor to get used to his new station in life," encouraged Lord Dar "what is it that they say 'old habits die hard', be patient My King"
King Peter placed a reassuring hand on King Lune's shoulder, "My friend I know this troubles you but please accept our offer I believe it will help" he said.
"Thank you King Peter," sighed King Lune as he took a seat, "Oh Aslan how my poor boy has suffered… Where is he now?"
"King Edmund wanted to show Prince Cor the new horse he brought for him," offered Lord Periden.
"Ahh here they are" smiled Lord Darin as Edmund and Cor walked up to the group. Both bowed politely,
"I am sorry I did not bring Prince Cor directly" smiled Edmund
"That is perfectly all right your majesty, "My son, come sit with me," smiled King Lune. As Cor sat down the Narnian Kings and Avaris saw the cause for King Lune's distress. Cor being the crowned prince had the right to sit at his father's side. Cor however had sat on the ground at his father's feet. 'A slave's proper place' thought Avaris. King Lune reached down and placed a loving hand on Cor's shoulder. "Thank you for your respect my son, but it would please me more if you would sit next to me." Cor nodded and took the seat next to his father. "Cor the Narnian Kings have a proposition for you."
King Peter gave King Lune a small nod of thanks before beginning to speak,
"Prince Cor it has been a year now since you have been restored to your family, and to celebrate this we wish to give you an opportunity not offered to many. The centaur elders wish to invite you to spend the summer in Narnia so that they may tutor you in your academic and martial studies" Cor's eyes widen in surprise,
"Surely High King I am not worthy of such an offer" he said.
"Nonsense," smiled King Edmund, "We have spoken to your tutors, they have told us that you are a bright and capable student,"
"Moreover if you accept, it will give our royal family the opportunity to get to know you better," finished Peter.
"Well what say you Prince Cor?" asked King Edmund. The young boy looked to his father,
"is it all right if I go Father? I am still behind Corin and Avaris when it comes to….. Well everything, "said Cor, a hint of shame coloring his speech." And this would give me the chance to catch up." Even from where she hid Avaris could see the looks of understanding that the noble men gave the Prince. It couldn't have been easy for him to admit his shortcomings in their presence.
"Of course it is all right with me if you go, it is a great honor for me to have a son of mine tutored by the wisest scholars of Narnia."
"Excellent! Then its settled when we leave tomorrow, young prince you shall go with us," said King Peter
"I suspect you might miss young prince Cor when he is away." Avaris gave a little gasp and turned to see Queen Lucy smiling at her.
"I was just….umm" she stammered.
"Don't worry Queen Susan and I will keep you all well informed as to his progress and well being."
"Lu is that you?" called Peter.
"Yes dear brother," she took Avaris's hand, "We were just looking for you. Have you asked Prince Cor yet?" Lucy asked while giving Avaris's hand a playful squeeze.
"I think it is safe to say Antares will have a new student this summer," replied King Edmund.
"Oh how wonderful,"
"But you and Su are not allowed to visit him for a least a week," said King Peter smiling slyly.
"Yes!" agreed King Edmund laughing "he doesn't need to be babied his first week away from home."
