Chapter 2
"Mr. Tumnus!" Peter called somewhat urgently, knocking on that wooden door that was situated on the side of a mountain.
The door opened and a man poked his head out. "Your Majesty!" said the man, opening the door fully. He was not a man, as was first thought. He was a faun.
"A faun!" breathed Renetta.
"Your Highnesses," said the faun called Tumnus, bowing before them. Renetta and Maressa dismounted. They curtsied.
"How delightful! A faun! I've always wanted to meet one," Renetta commented.
"I'm delighted as well to meet you, Highness," said Tumnus.
"Please do call me Renetta or Ren. One does tire of hearing one's title over and over," said Renetta.
"Of course. But what of your sister? Do tell me your name, Highness," Tumnus spoke to Maressa.
"Princess Maressa Claire Surmia of Celadon, at your service. But you must call me, Maressa, or Resa, please," replied Maressa.
"To be sure. Now, would you please come in?" asked Tumnus courteously.
Peter who had been watching with some amusement, now spoke, "Oh yes, Tumnus. You do remember what we talked about?"
Tumnus nodded and he led them inside his home, closing the door behind him as he went.
"Welcome to my humble abode. I do apologize for the lack of regality, but it is all we can offer," said Tumnus a bit apologetically.
"You must be jesting. This place is perfect! I feel comfortable already," said Renetta, who had sat down in front of the warm fire.
"Thank you for your praise, High—I mean, Renetta," said Tumnus, bowing.
Maressa sat down in front of her sister, gazing into the fire.
"Would you like to see your room? I'm afraid you and your sister will have to share," said Peter.
"That's fine," replied Maressa and followed him down a small corridor, stopping in front of a door at the end of it. Peter opened the door, revealing two small beds and warm fireplace.
"Perfect! I have to thank you, King Peter, for helping us," said Maressa. "It was nothing. We will set off at the break of dawn tomorrow. I suggest we get dinner over with and get some sleep," replied Peter.
They went back and saw Renetta and Tumnus having an animated conversation.
"—something of music, then?" Tumnus was saying.
"Yes, I do. I know how to play the flute and the lyre, although Maressa is so much better with the lyre than me." Renetta grinned back at her sister. Maressa smiled back.
"I would very much like to hear you play," suggested Tumnus enthusiastically.
"She would be honored, I know," began Maressa as Renetta opened her mouth. "But don't you think we should have dinner first? As I recall, my sister's playing is very refined and you might want to sleep after hearing it. No offense meant to you, dear sister."
"None taken," Renetta muttered and Tumnus said, "Oh, of course. The kettle is, in fact, boiling, so I think that tea and a bit of meat and bread would do for dinner, with you consent, of course."
All three royals nodded. In a matter of minutes, the kettle and meal was set on the table and they were all seated. They ate steadily.
After about half an hour, the last place had been cleaned. They sat in front of the fire and rested.
"And now, for your performance, Renetta. Would you consent to play now?" asked Tumnus politely.
"Yes. Let me just get my flute," replied Renetta. She stood and rummaged through her bag which she hung behind the front door. She pulled out her flute and returned to her seat.
She began playing a lullaby. Its sweet melody made the others' eyes feel heavy and they slumped in their seats, but not yet asleep.
Sweet thoughts ran through their minds as they heard the music. After what seemed like hours, but it was only, in fact, for a few minutes only, Renetta finished.
"What kind of wondrous magic is that, Lady?" asked Peter.
"I told you her playing is very refined." Maressa smiled knowingly.
"You flatter me, but it wasn't extraordinary, that's how I play everytime," said Renetta.
"Renetta, I do believe you have a wondrous gift!" said Tumnus said enthusiastically.
"Lady, I think you have the answer to my brother's problem," said Peter.
"King Edmund? Pray, tell me why and how I should ever have a chance to help him," asked Renetta.
"My brother has been suffering from bouts of sleeplessness. I have tried every means I know of and exhausted all my resources in searching for such who can help him. I would very much appreciate it if you could help him," explained Peter.
"Oh, yes, of course. As soon as we get to your home, I will try my very best," replied Renetta.
"I should think it's time to sleep. I'm exhausted. May we talk about this tomorrow?" said Maressa, yawning. She could barely keep her eyes open.
"Oh, right. I apologize for my ignorance. We should talk about this tomorrow. I'll see you in the morning," said Peter as he stood up.
Renetta said good night and supported her sister on their way to their room. As soon as they lay on their beds, their eyes closed and they fell asleep immediately.
AHHH. Dumugo ilong ko dun. Ang lalalim ng mga words. RELIEF. Tapos na and that's just the 2nd chapter. Pagod na 'ko. Review and comment.
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