AN: Update Aug. 3rd

Hiya *waves awkwardly* I know I said I would upload this chapter quite a while ago but life gets in the way. In my case, my life needed a lot of fixing up which has improved but there are some things that need attention still. Also the rewrite for this chapter had gotten deleted TWICE, not once but two times. The first one being nearly completed. I had such a heartache over it I literally cried. All those hard working months gone in an instant. T^T

Good news I am FINALLY finished rewriting the chapters I had up before. I promise those would be up soon enough. I swear to you the changes I made will surprise you. You would not even see it coming. At least I hope it does because it has definitely been for me. Oh the plot bunnies I have for these "stories" are gonna be sweet nectar. *evil laughter*

Okay enough chit chat. I will leave you to enjoy this long awaited chapter. Also ignore the line break in the beginning, I can't get rid of it. ;-;

Enjoy my fabulous readers!

Disclaimer: See the first chapter!

Chapter Four

The Truth

I slowly open my eyes still heavy with slumber. I stare up at the ceiling trying in vain to remember my dream but like all dreams. It trickles away like water leaving only a few details behind. I had dreamed I returned home to my family when the war had finally ended. They were so happy, they ran to me almost causing us to fall over. I care not whether either of us has a physical injury. The fact we were united was all that matters. We spent the remainder of the dream catching up like it was old times. It was going so well...until I felt the notions of waking come washing over me. Oh how it pains me to know the one dream I enjoyed was an illusion. An ugly nightmare disguise as a beautiful dream.

Last nights argument came to the forefront of my mind unwanted like sickness. Guilt settles in my heart as heavy chains bound it in place. I had no right to intrude on the private on going of Peter and Susan's family life. It is beyond what an ordinary, sane, normal person would done. I should have left things alone. Just turned the other cheek ignoring the situation entirely. It was hard to do when it was in front of my eyes.

'Go back to the United States.'

Susan's words stung almost making me burst into tears then. The corner of my eyes pricked as unwanted tears begin to form as my lungs constrict tightly. Susan has no idea how lucky she is to have her siblings in one place. To have her family in the same country except for her father. While I am alone, stuck on another continent separated from my own family. All because of this stupid war. With all of this, some might think I blame or resent Susan but I really don't. It is only bitter, jealous thoughts I some times have.

Getting back to the matter on hand, I hate suggesting this let alone think of it. I suppose I could be the bigger person and... apologize... for my atrocious behavior. I might have met them fleetingly before but it is still unbecoming of my character. They were not exactly nice either but I was pushing their buttons til the blew up. Whether we learn to agree or disagree, our temporary stay at Professor Kirke's will not be enjoyable. We were sent to the countryside for our own safety from the war. We best shape up and some to terms with another. We will be each others company for God knows how long.

Heavens above, I can be an idiot at times. Who in their right mind would from England to the United States by swimming alone? I know I was angry and inept to think properly but could I at least come up with a better tic tac than swimming. The particular activity will be the last thing I will ever do. I don't think I ever could since that accident.

I am startled out of my wits as I feel the bed dip a little from an unexpected weight. I prop unto my elbows twisting my body to see Lucy. I risk a glance over my shoulder to see Susan still asleep on the other bed.

'How interesting. Susan is usually awake before Lucy.' I directed my gaze to Lucy sympathetic. 'Lucy must not have slept well.'

"Oh Lucy," I feign surprise, "I haven't the faintest idea you were up." I lay back down turning around to face her properly.

"I didn't sleep all too well." Lucy admits, a frown upon her lips. "My dreams were plagued of everyone calling me a lair. Narnia, Mr. Tumnus were fake, a tale made up by my imagination." Lucy sniffs. "Why would Edmund lie? He was there with us?" Lucy whispers in a broken voice.

I stare wide eyed with my mouth open a little as Lucy stares at me with teary blue eyes. My heart lurch in pain as the reflects all the pain, sadness, the doubts swim to the surface.

I grab her pulling Lucy into an embrace as she release the bottle emotions. I rub her back stunned by it all. I know Lucy is upset with Edmund lying and how her tale is real. I did not know Lucy's spirit was deeply hurt. I guess finding Narnia twice within a few hours and finally having other people believing too. Only to have one lie to the rest making it even worse. Why must Lucy be the bearer of all of this? What has she done to deserve thus?

"Lucy, I beg of you not to say those words. Your dreams are nothing but untold lies. A nightmare." I notice the subtle shifting from Susan. "I may not know why Edmund lied but be proud you have gotten to shown us Narnia." I pull back to look straight into Lucy's eyes. "Narnia is real as is Mr. Tumnus. Remember that." I tell her in a firm voice.

"But what of Peter and Susan?" Lucy has/had accepted my handkerchief to wipe her face/cheeks dry. "They still don't believe me. They will not listen to you either." she explains.

I search my brain for a suitable reply. "Maybe next time I will be seeing five of you."

My brow crease an inch as I am reminded of Mr. Tumnus farewell. Surely he cannot be true.

"It may be true but there will come a day Peter and Susan will see Narnia too. You just need to be a little patient." I nudge her a little.

Lucy sniffles bit she smiles making her light blue eyes shine. This time they speak of hope.

"How about we go get dressed and head down to the kitchen for breakfast." I speak out loud.

I place my finger upon my lips to silent Lucy. She gave me an inquiring gaze on not knowing what I am planning. I stand up slowly creeping to the window ablaze with light from the sun. I half smile mischievous in Susan's 'sleeping' form currently facing the window.

I pull the beige curtains closing my eyes from the intensity of the brightness of the sun. I am soon rewarded by the most beautiful sound.

"Claire!" Susan cries out as Lucy giggles. "You did that on purpose!" She complains as she pulls the covers over her head. "Wipe that smirk off your face Claire." Came her muffled reply.

I continue to smile regardless. "Rise and shine Susan. It is going to be a beautiful day." I chirp skipping over to the dressers and wardrobe containing my clothes.

"Ugh, both of you shut up." complains Susan.

I place my picked clothes on top of the dresser as I decide to make up the bed as I wait my turn for the bathroom. Then I thought to write a little in my journal since I still had a little time. I grab my red leather bound journal out of the drawer. I wrote down my journey with Lucy to Narnia, to Mr. Tumnus, and the argument I had with Peter and Susan.

A violet ribbon is put between the ink filled pages to remember my place as I close the journal. I trace the image of hydrangeas designed into the worn leather with familiarity. This particular journal used to belong to my grandfather before he gave it to me on fourteenth birthday. I was surprised as much as everybody when he handed my the red velvet pouch the journal belongs in. Everyone in my family knew the journal was given to him by his mother, my great grandmother. It was the last thing grandpa had of her or his father after their unknown passing. Mom would not answer any of the questions we had on grandpa because she herself never knew much on them either. I had asked grandpa why now did he decided to give away the journal. What he said surprised me.

"It was never mine to possess in the beginning. I was meant to hand it to a person worthy to weld it." Grandpa smiles at me. "That person is you sweetheart."

"Weld it? Grandpa, you are turning a ordinary journal into a treasured jewel or a weapon even." I replied. "I mean worthy? What kind of journal is this?" Grandpa is the most sane person you ever think of. However, the bedtime stories he used to tell us when my brothers, sister, and I were small were the best ever.

Grandpa only gave me a secretive glance. "When the time comes Claire, you will understand everything."

I thought about what grandpa had told me but it didn't last long. I was too busy rubbing it in to Marie how grandpa gave me his most valued item. She was totally jealous, by the way. It was the last time I talked to grandpa because a week later he passed away. His death was a crippling blow to my family. He was a father figure to me and my siblings since...

"Claire, aren't you going to get dressed?"

I snap my attention onto Lucy standing before me with Susan fully dressed. I raise my eyebrows in surprise. 'How long was I gone for?' I have the tendency to slip into my own world long enough for time to go from a few minutes to a couple hours. I should probably work on that.

"Uh yeah. J-Just give me a few minutes." I stash my journal back in its place in the drawer. I grab my clothes standing up from the bed as I head over to the bathroom.

I gather my clothes in my arms as I take a short way down the hallway and into the bathroom. I use the back of my left foot to close the door. My back presses against it as I lean closing my eyes as I let out a long/deep sigh. As much as I like to relive the past, I must focus on the present or some memories I don't want might surface.

I push myself from the door and begin my bathroom routine. I change out of my nightgown to replace it with a white skirt and a lavender shirt with a flowery design. I cringe from the image my birds nest of a hair looks in the mirror. I begin the daunting task of combing/sorting out some of the knots in my hair. Once done I put my hair into a side ponytail. I smile at my reflection satisfied of my appearance.

I gather my nightgown in my arms and exited the bathroom. I spot Peter leaning against the wall waiting for his turn. I give him a small smile before walking back into the bedroom. I stop when I see Lucy was no longer in the room but Susan sitting patiently on the bed.

"I told Lucy to go ahead and we will be there shortly." Susan said, smoothing down her grey skirt.

I simply nod as I focused on putting my nightgown away in the drawer. I have a feeling in my gut we won't be there "shortly". Nonetheless, whatever this may lead I will follow it.

"Listen Claire," begins Susan standing up. "I want to apologize about last night. I was out line." Susan was still playing with her skirt.

"I too apologize. It wasn't my place to get involved in your family matters." I said, feeling a little better than I was previously.

Susan smiles a little bashful feeling the same as I do. "Let us begin a new and forget about our past troubles." Susan holds out her hand. "Hello I'm Susan Pevensie. It is a pleasure to meet you." Her shoulders are shaking with silent laughter.

My face splits into a huge grin as I can not contain my giddiness. "Hi I'm Claire Jones," I grasp Susan's hand. "The pleasure is all mine." We let go. "How about we go discuss our renewed friendship over breakfast." I opposed to start our day off with a good start.

"Why yes, I would love that very much Claire." said Susan. Even though we might have disagreed on a few problems, we can't let them cloud our judgement on the duration of our stay.

We walk out of the bedroom in happier spirits than we were previously. We chatted about our every day activities in our lives pervious of the relocation. It was bizarre to be asked questions about my home country and how is it similar but different than England. We even made future plans to hang out later when the threat from the Germans have passed over.

"Peter!" exclaims Susan, unexpectedly.

I jumped in fright nearly crashing into a planted corner. My ears buzzed with white noise as I lean against the wall. I take deep breaths to steady my heart from Susan's outburst. My gaze turns heated with annoyance as I wish I was warned before. She practically shouted in my ear almost making me go deaf.

Peter goes still for a second before facing us. I look between the two siblings my curiosity piqued. Why, you may ask? Well Peter, for some odd reason, is red as a tomato looking guilty. Why is he guilty? He has done literally nothing for the day just barely begun!

"Peter, you were eavesdropping on us." Susan scolds. "Mum has told you it was a nasty trait to have." Her hands are placed on her hips transitioning to a younger version of their mom I believe.

Peter went from guilty to scandalous in a blink of an eye. "I was not eavesdropping on you! I was walking by when I happened to over hear you two. It is not my fault the hallway is quiet." Peter ranted to get the limelight off him. "I bet the whole household heard you two yapping." muttered Peter.

I feel the need to save Peter from his false accusation. "You know Susan, Peter is right. I mean we were not talking about anything secretive unless you were and I totally missed it." I thought it over for a second but didn't detect anything. "I'm hurt you referred us as dogs Peter." I jut out my bottom lip in a pout to feign hurt.

Peter did not even try to be sympathetic to me. "I call it as I see them. Or hear them in this case." He said plainly.

I gape at him shocked. "Rude! Susan, you can scold Peter like the little boy he is!" I stomped away from the two huffing down the hallway and around the corner missing the teasing smirk Peter had while fuming.

"Hm, this reminds me of the story how mum met dad." speak Susan to the now quiet hallway.

I pause twirling a stand of my hair as I debate whether I should listen or not. My face burns hot as my common sense attacks me for being nosy. I am such a hypocrite right now. I say to mind my own business and yet here I am eavesdropping on someone's conversation. I'm worse than Peter but I take a cautious step towards the end of the hallway. Close enough to hear but hidden to not get spotted.

'I am going to get in trouble.' I thought while telling my conscience to shut up.

Peter looks to his sister terrified what her discovery would lead. "How is this similar? If I recall correctly, they met during a school outing and they didn't get into arguments the next couple of days." said Peter, trying to dissuade his sister off the path.

Susan hums in reply. "Perhaps not but this is a different situation than mum and dad's were. Dad teased mum when he fancied her." Susan fixes her brother with an intense gaze that unnerved Peter. "You fancy Claire, don't you Peter?" ask Susan. "Boys do like to tease the girl they like."

Time froze around me as my face heated up from this question. My heart was doing overtime as I stand in place with a surprise look. My mind recycles the question over and over like a continuous loop as a record except without the white noise. I lean against the wall everything around me a buzz as I cannot compute what was heard.

What did Susan mean by Peter liking me? I know what she meant but I fail to believe Susan's illogical conclusion. It is true that some little boys tease girls they like without knowing it. This I know all to well since I experienced it first hand. Back home, James Rodgers was a right bully to me when we were six. Of course, that changed drastically but in a good way. Either way, the majority of the population won't get into a verbal fight with the one they like at least that is not the way I show my attraction to my crush. That is a story I won't tell to anyone because it is embarrassing. Back to the matter at hand, I won't have a crush on someone I had a disagreement with not once but twice. I can guarantee Peter thinks the same as I do.

In my brief moment of panic, the silence is broken by Peter's constant struggling to speak if his stuttering is to go anything by. I would to should I be in his place.

"Are you out of your mind Susan?" ask Peter, rhetorical. "Claire is a nice girl but I don't fancy her. I cannot like a girl after having disagreements the moment we met." He tells her straight out. "Yes I do tease Claire but as a friend. I do the same to your friends as well."

I nod siding with Peter. I do not mind the teasing as long it stays friendly and not mean. Of course, I will respond back with my own teasing for fun. Satisfied, I decided now is the time to leave. I have stayed long enough and I don't want to be caught like Peter. Susan can be scary when in parental mode and I do not want to be the focus of it.

A loud gurgle disrupt silence of the hallway. I quickly scan the hallway of any living being before placing a hand on my stomach as it rumbles again. Thank goodness no one is to hear of my stomach talking in hunger. That would have been embarrassing.

"You will be feed soon stomach. Soon." I said to myself patting my stomach.

"Are you talking to yourself Claire?" ask Peter coming up from behind.

My face goes red as my hand drops to the side silently hoping he heard nothing. "Don't be stupid Peter. I was not talking to myself-" Heat now has a permanent residency along my face as I contradict myself.

Peter only smirks as my stomach growls once more, watching my face turn a deep scarlet than before. "I think you just proved my point." He teased lightly.

"Well, it is a good thing the kitchen is around the corner." said Susan. She had/has the decency to not laugh at my plight. However, I knew she was being subtle with her amusement. There was no way Susan did not find this funny. I would should it have been someone else.

Together we enter the kitchen fully intent on getting breakfast. I stop upon seeing Edmund and Lucy already sitting at the table but on opposite sides. The atmosphere in the kitchen is subdue as the younger two try to ignore one another. It barely works for while one is busy with their meals the other risk a glance and vice versa. Well, this is gonna be interesting.

I feel a tap on my shoulder bring me out of my thoughts. I peer over my shoulder to see Peter behind me. "What?" I ask in genuine confusion.

"Claire you are blocking the entry way to the kitchen." replies Peter, feigning irritation. He proves by trying to get pass me but the space between the door and I was small.

I furrow my brow as I inspect the space with a closer eye. Well, a closer eye than I can manage without some help. After inspecting it, I rolled my eyes folding my arms while giving Peter a disproving glare. "You call this blocking? The door is wide enough to slip on through."

Peter contemplates on the matter and test out the theory. He walks by me without trouble and he avoids my eye. "What do you know you can get through." said Peter, awkward.

I shake my head as a smirk takes over my lips. "Trying to get me all ruffled up won't work, Pevensie." I refer Peter by his last name as a last resort.

Peter raise an eyebrow at being called by his last name. "Is that so? Well, Jones you happen to be wrong. I was not doing any of that sort." he said, daring to look me in the eye.

Now I'm the one staring at him with both eyebrows raised. To hear Peter utter my last name was surprising to say the least. If Peter wants to play this game, fine I will join alongside him. "Hmm, I will let you slide this once Pevensie but rest assured it won't happen again." I warn him although I was smiling through it all.

Peter smiles in kind. "I expect nothing less Jones."

"Honestly, you two." Susan steps in between us interrupting our silly banter. "Quit acting like small children. If you want to flirt, I suggest to do it elsewhere not where we eat." scolds Susan, annoyed by our banter.

Peter and I break eye contact as the usual rosy hue takes place on our faces. The both of us reminded of the conversation the siblings had I purposely spied upon. Gosh, me flirting with Peter is absurd. I just thought we were having a normal, silly banter amongst friends. Besides, I am awkward when it comes to flirting with boys. I know, it was embarrassing when it happened.

"Good, you guys shut up now." remarks Susan, satisfied. "Now go eat your breakfast." she commands in parental mode.

I send Susan a reprimanded look. "Yes mom." I reply with sarcasm dripping from my words.

I squeeze past Susan sitting down at the brown rectangular table. I pick a spot where no one would at least sit next to me. I glance up to catch Edmund's eye. He divert his gaze away from me to the food in front of him.

I bite the inside of my cheek as a spike of frustration peaks from Edmund. It is not out of sudden either but it lays/lies in the shadow from last night. I reach for the plate of scrambled eggs scooping some onto my own settling it back down as I grab a piece of toast and pour a pitcher of orange juice in a glass. I stab a fork into my eggs with subtly in a venting motion. The feel of eyes on the back of my neck cause me to glance under my eye leashes to watch Peter gaze inquisitive towards me. Hm, I apparently I was not as subtle as I thought.

After breakfast, Peter has suggested to go outside while the day is in perfect weather. It would be best to improve the somber atmosphere that has surrounded us. There is also the idea of everyone wanting to explore the massive grounds the professor has to offer. For one day to simply be the kids they are meant to be while away from the city and out in the country. Today is the day to have fun. The double doors open to reveal the perfect blue sky with a few fluffy, white clouds that almost resembled cotton candy. The bright sun high up in the air to provide plenty of light for our adventures outside. To give shade when we sit underneath the trees as the fresh breeze cool us from the warmth.

I smile feeling all that is pent up leave me in one single breath as I take in the fresh air. My feet went ahead before the thought of running enter my mind. The grass bounce back as my foot tramps on it so to speak. I plop down running my fingers through the green blades of grass. I close my eyes allowing my mind to stop the flow and relax. To enjoy the nature we have been given today.

"Claire, we are going to explore the grounds." A shadow blocks out the light from my closed eyelids.

I open an eye to see Peter standing above me. "Why? I am perfectly content laying here on the grass."

Peter eyes me doubtful. "You are such a liar."

I prop myself on my elbows to give Peter a scandalous look. "I am not!" I exclaim. "I enjoy taking a lay in on a wonderful day."

"I did not watch you run/ran like a lunatic who has tons of pent up energy." stated Peter as he thought of my reply. "Join in the fun Claire. Who knows what is waiting out there." He kneels down to my level. "Are you willing to join me on this expedition?" Peter holds out his hand as if already knowing my answer.

I thought his offer through while biting my lip to keep from smiling. "I am not a child with a wild imagination. I don't expect things to happen out of the blue." I reply, sitting up.

Peter nods in understanding. "I am not saying you are. Do you not hear the forest calling? Waiting to be explore?" He offers me his hand once again.

The resistance I hold cracks as I unwilling allow Peter's 'deal' to sway me. I sigh in defeat peering at Peter sideways. "Oh all right. I will join in on this adventure since you made it sound mystical." I grab Peter's hand and raise along with him. "If this adventure takes a sour turn, then I will be disappointed in you Peter." I smooth out my skirt and shirt for any dirt and wrinkles.

Peter places his hand over his heart. "I swear you won't be disappointed Claire scouts honor." He swore.

We set off at once heading to the trees that shadow the grounds. The canopy of the trees creates another world as the sunlight filtered through the open spaces of the branches. Even though we were on Professor Kirke's property, the image creates a mystical place that transport you to another place. Perhaps I was too quick to judge Peter after all. However, one thing I did notice that neither one of us has came into contact or view of the others. Maybe they went ahead of Peter as he came back to get me?

A noise from afar caught my attention. "Did you hear that?" I ask, peering into the foliage.

Peter inspects the area nonplussed. "No, I hear nothing."

I furrow my brow. "But I swear I did." A distinct crackle is heard but louder this time. "See there it is again. Tell me, I cannot be the only one hearing this." I somehow grab unto Peter's arm in a frightful manner. The sound was making me jumpy I am afraid to admit.

Peter had/has no choice but to come to terms with the sounds. It is hard to ignore when such sound is getting louder. While we are in the country, the grounds are surrounded by an nearby forest which we are currently located. Neither one of us has a inkling as to what lives in the forest but we can guess to be wolves at least. The unknown is quite frightening to bear.

His eyes peer into the tree above all trace of curiosity gone. "Let us go venture elsewhere Claire. It is obvious someone is playing a trick on us." said Peter, his tone held annoyance.

While in agreement, I gaze above to see Edmund peering down with a wicked sneer twisting his features. I met his sneer with a glare as I do not approve his joy of entertainment.

"It must be such a shame to feel fulfillment in other people's misery." I quipped in retort.

Without a word in reply, Peter and I go a different way leaving Edmund to brood in all his lonesome. Must he always be such a stick in the mud/prick? Are we not allow to spend one single second being carefree and have fun?

"Penny for your thoughts?" Peter prompted. He lead us to a boulder that has a smooth, flat surface. It was perfect to use as a seat.

"If I may be so bold," I inquire waiting until Peter gave me permission. "Why does Edmund act like such a downer? You needn't tell me since it is not my business." I twirl a piece of my hair in boredom.

Peter was thoughtful as he toys with a fallen branch. "Edmund was not always like this. He was much like a happy child when we grew up." Peter pauses as he chooses his words carefully. "When word spread of war breaking out, our dad enlisted himself into the army. Mum wasn't pleased when this occurred."

'At least your dad left for a just cause.' I thought with bitterness. "I can only imagine how distraught your mom must have been. People change when someone important they love leaves." I said, imaging how my life would have been if he stayed. I stopped that thought at once because it brought an old wound I long since relinquished. Too many memories I whether keep buried and forget I ever had.

"Sounds like you know from experience Claire." said Peter. He was unaware of my internal battle.

I lean back resting my palms on the boulder. "What can I say. I'm separated from my family for the last two years thanks to the war. Should any of them or my friends see me now, they would be surprised how shy and recluse I have become." I admit showing my real personality of being open and outgoing than the one I developed in my stay in England.

"I believe you meant being mean to others Claire." Peter teases looking up from his handiwork. It consisted of a bunch of designs and scribbles in the dirt.

I know he was teasing me but I pretended to be offended. "I'm being mean? My goodness, here I am having a good conversation with you and you are the one being mean Pevensie." I stand up brushing off any dirt on my person. "Good day." I left Peter sitting on the rock by himself. I made sure to ignore his calls and kept on walking.

After I made my way through the forest, I head back into the house to fetch my journal. The forest inspired me to write a couple nature poems. I scout for a suitable place to sit which happens to be under an oak tree. It provides plenty of shade for me to just sit for ages. I open my journal to an empty page and begin to write the flowing words that guided my pen.

"Are you writing a poem?" ask Lucy peering over my shoulder.

Startle, I snap the journal shut almost resulting a paper cut in the process. "Uh... maybe?" I questioned with indifference.

"I love poems! Can I read it?" Lucy prompt, sitting down next to me. A book clutched on her hand.

"Well you see Lucy... I think..." I am stumped to find a reasonable answer to deny Lucy such an act. "I would let you read the poem Lucy but it is not ready for the world to see." I decided to remain truthful in my response.

I watch as Lucy narrow her eyes not believing me. "But I read a couple of verses you wrote. Claire, they really good not as messy you want to believe they are." Lucy smiles with honesty.

My cheeks flush as I glance at my journal bashful. "Thanks Lucy." I said genuine. I inspect the book in her hand. "What kind of book are you reading?"

I raise a brow as Lucy becomes uncomfortable. Why? It was a simple question but then I was not as forth coming when she asked me about my poem. However, it is completely different as the poem is of my own hand whether the book Lucy carries should not matter in the slightest.

"Alice in Wonderland." Lucy mutters. Her eyes remain on a page in the open book.

'How ironic? A book solely on Alice's adventure through Wonderland. Then it was discovered it was nothing but a dream.' The temptation to roll my eyes is huge but I resist the urge. 'I hope Lucy likes the book and not use it as a way to hurt herself.' I thought to myself. Just thinking about it makes me upset.

"A great book to read." I commented keeping it neutral.

"Claire, Lucy."

We look over to see Peter a reddish-brown ball secure in his hand. He tosses between his hands to busy himself.

"What do you want Peter?" I ask since Lucy opted not to. "It must be redundant for you to interfere our peaceful time." I snip turning back to my journal. That time I could not resist my natural ways when it comes to Peter.

Peter appears offended. "I have you know. I came to see if either one of you would like to play cricket." Peter points somewhere behind him. "We found a shed not far from the house. The bat and ball were inside and thought a good game would be nice."

As Lucy declines his offer, I offer Peter a blank stare. "Cricket?" I repeat. "Is it that ball game that almost resembles baseball in the States?" I remember my friends talking about cricket and taking me to a couple games. I can never understand how it works because I often confuse it with baseball.

"The rules to cricket and baseball are different from one another." explains Peter. "I can offer to help you play. It is easier to show than talking through it." Peter offers smoothly while fiddling with the ball.

I think over his suggestion. "Perhaps some other time. I feel content sitting on my perch and simply watch you guys play instead. Maybe even cheer you on for support." I smile as a rosy hue takes over Peter's face. 'Surely he must have some girls cheered for him when he played with his friends?' I decide to not acknowledge this.

Peter covers up his little slip by tossing the ball up. "With your support Claire now I have to make sure I win this game."

I smirk as I continue to write in my journal. "I am counting on you to." I saw Peter walk out of view. "Boys I swear." I mutter with a chuckle.

I sense myself being watched by the unease feeling I get. I peer around to find myself under the watchful eye of Lucy's inquisitive eyes. "Yes?"

My eyebrows shot up in alarm as Lucy marks the page in the book to face me fully. My heart sped a little as I try to find anything that could be wrong. It has to be important for Lucy to look serious. I wait with baited breath as my curiosity takes over.

"Do you have a crush on my brother Claire?"

My eyes almost bulge out of my head as the previous thought shatters. "Ex- Excuse me?" I hear myself sputter in reply faintly.

"Do you fancy my elder brother, Claire?" ask Lucy, her face still serious.

I begin to stutter like a babe as the familiar telltale sign of blush appears again! My entire face is covered in heat including my ears! 'Good lord, how many times must I continue to blush?! I never blush this much back home!'

"Wha-no! I do not have a crush on Peter!" I clamp a hand over my mouth as the last statement was louder than I intended. I glance quick to see Peter and the others start playing. I breathe a sigh of relief knowing Peter did not hear me. I cannot deal with that particular subject now. I won't string anyone along a false trail.

The sound of giggling captures my attention. I stare at her as she attempts not to laugh. "Oh relax Claire." Her blue eyes sparkling like gems. "I was joking. I know you don't ha-ah!"

I lunge at Lucy making her scream in mid speak. I rain my hands upon Lucy my fingers digging into her sides causing her to burst into laughter. We spent the last ten minutes laughing as I tickle Lucy as she struggles about.

"Peter winds up and poised to take yet another wicket!" Peter narrates. He pitches the reddish-brown ball towards Edmund, the opposing team's batter.

Alas there is a small tiny detail: Edmund was a bit distracted. His mind is far gone as he gazes in nowhere in particular. Edmund gets brought back to reality by a loud smack. The pain flares up on his left thigh as the ball hits him.

"Ow!" cries Edmund, rubbing the sore area on his leg.

"Whoops! Wake up, Dolly Daydream." Peter teases as his younger brother glares at him.

Susan, as the catcher, runs to the area the ball landed. She comes back throwing the ball back to Peter.

I giggle in amusement. "Dolly Daydream? Who in the world says that?" I ask. It is such an odd saying to me.

Peter threw me an exasperated look. "I say it all the time. It is a catch phrase we say." he explain deadpanned.

I stare at him incredulous. "Truly... but I never heard of it." I inquired, puzzled by this new knowledge.

"Perhaps it is not where you live but Dolly Daydream is said during school." Susan clarified for me.

"Interesting." I fold my arms leaning back against the tree. "You may continue your game." I ponder over this new discovery going over the area by Aunt Polly's house. Now that I am thinking on it there were some people who did say the phrase. Huh, I must have forgotten about it. 'Well that is obvious Claire.'

Edmund, on the other hand, has a different idea. "Why can't we play hide and seek again?" ask Edmund.

Lucy stops in her reading in five seconds to stare at her second older brother. Her expression was unreadable before returning to her book.

"I thought you said it was a kids game." Peter said, tossing the ball back and forth.

"Besides, we could all use the fresh air." pips in Susan from behind.

Edmund looks back at his sister. "It's not like there isn't air inside." he counters back, earning a strange look from her.

I scoff at his remark. "You may get air inside the house but it is filtered air. It is best to get fresh air once in a while since it is good for you." I recounted back playing with a strand of my hair.

Edmund is in the motion to argue but Peter puts an end to it. "Are you ready Ed?" He ask loudly.

Behind Peter's back, I stick out my tongue at Edmund in victory. Again, Edmund glares at me as Susan shakes her head at my childish ways.

Edmund focuses his attention on Peter. "Are you?" He beats the ground with the bat getting ready to swing.

Peter swings his hand back pitching his hand forward as he releases the ball in a hard throw. Edmund tightens his grip on the bat swinging as the ball made his trajectory. The bat made a connection with the ball. The strength behind the bat slams into the ball knocking it in the air. The ball sails high through the sky until it went straight through one of the upstairs windows. The sound of broken glass follow by a metallic clang from the room itself.

We stare wide eyed, mouths agape at the broken window. Horrified by the prospect of Macready finding out the issue and getting in trouble for it. Who knows what kind of punishments the scary woman has up her sleeve? None of us wants to find out.

In a flash, we run through the grounds all items lay forgotten as we go to the front doors. Then we went up the flight of stairs passing and running in the hallways until reaching upon the room. Slowly, all of us stepped inside glancing at the broken window to the fallen suit of armor with a noticeable dent on the floor littered with glass.

The intense silence gets broken by Peter. "Well done Ed!" He snaps.

Edmund looks to Peter outrage as he should. "You bowled it!" He retorts, panic stricken.

I had enough of the two complaining. "Oh shut up. Peter you threw it, Edmund you hit it. It would not matter to Mrs. Macready. All of us are going to be in trouble either way." I snap at them both earning myself their glares knowing I'm right but won't admit it.

"What on earth is goin' on?" A familiar voice questions down the hall. "If I catch any of you children causin' a ruckus, you will get a punishment." Macready drones on.

"The Macready!" Susan and I cry at once.

"Come on!" urges Peter, leading us out of the room.

The desire to be far away from the crime scene is strong. We run down the hallway going in the opposite direction. No matter where we go or how far we managed to get, there are always footsteps around the corner, down the hall, or behind the doors. Every single time we are force to back track and find another way.

"How in the world does Macready get here so quick?" I mutter under my breath.

Peter answers my unheard question. "Well she does know the house far better than we, the guests, do."

My cheeks stain with pink again. To be fair, no one was supposed to hear me but then again, Peter is standing in front of me. I see my flustered state amuses Peter to no end. Instead of saying anything I gave him a slight shove to keep on moving since we were in the back.

Going around the corner, Edmund goes in one hallway to a door. He opens it to see the close is clear and signals the rest to follow. We rush in behind to come upon-

-the wardrobe.

Edmund runs to the wardrobe unfazed reaching out to open the small door. "Come on!" He suggested to the dead silence.

The four of us stare between Edmund and the wardrobe in skeptic. Does he really think the wardrobe is capable of holding five people? It barely had room for three! Besides, it is not a good place to hide from Mrs. Macready since she knows the house at the back of her hand.

Susan stares at Edmund to the wardrobe in disbelief. "Oh, you have got to be joking."

"Edmund, you do realize none of us are going to fit inside." I inform him, gazing upon up on the wardrobe. The three of us barely fit last time."

I continue to look at the wardrobe feeling a slight pull of kinetic energy leading me to it. It also gave me a strange, excitement feeling as though I will finally find an answer to a question I long since asked. As though we were purposely lead to the wardrobe, to where Narnia lays beyond in secret. The adventure into the unknown and our fates held have begun. I know Mrs. Macready knows the house and its shortcuts better than we ever will but she isn't young either. She would not be able to get from one area of the house to the other in a split second. Is the magic inside the wardrobe led us here?

"Claire!"

I am brought out of my musing by Peter grabbing onto my hand and tugging me forward. Unexpected by the movement, I stumbled on my feet with the help of Peter balancing me.

Before we could speak, the footsteps grew louder outside the room. They stop directly behind the door.

"Hurry!' Peter whispers, racing to the wardrobe with me behind him.

Peter let's me go in front of him as climb in afterwards. He reaches out for the door nearly closing it all the way.

"Get back!" whispers Peter. He is aware not to trod on me from behind.

The wardrobe is engulf by darkness leaving only a sliver of light from the doorway.

With five people huddled together in a small wardrobe it became near impossible to move. It was an amazement we all manage to fit inside. It went away as problems raised.

Utter chaos ensued.

Somewhere in the back or around the wardrobe an argument breaks out between Edmund and Lucy. It is about someone stepping on whoever's toe or foot. If it were not the distinction of their voices, none would know who was speaking in the pitch black of darkness.

It was mind numbing but that was the least of my worries. I find myself occupied by an object poking into my side. It was barely noticed if it were not for the sudden jab as though one was being stabbed which thankfully that was not the case. I reach out for the source to feel the faint brush of wool on my finger tips that materialize into the form of an arm.

"Who is that?" question Susan to the right of me.

Odd I thought she was in front of me. The jabbing in my side reminds me why I sought out Susan. "Susan, you are digging your arm into my side." I said in a pain laced voice.

I sense Susan moving about. "You are talking nonsense Claire. I'm barely touching you!" she said.

My mind cannot grasp the explanation as it addled with pain from this constant jabbing. "Then why am I getting poked on the side you are on?" I stressed out anger overcoming the pain.

Susan scoffs as she tries to make point by pulling away from me. "I don't know why Claire! Maybe a hanger or a coat but it is most definitely not me!" Susan retorts, getting angry herself.

"How could it be a hanger when they are by our heads and not our sides?" I asked, questioning the logic.

"Have you thought it must have fallen?" She fires back. Susan knows she made a logical point in our battle of wits we are currently having. "The hook could have catch onto your shirt."

I open my mouth to respond but nothing came to mind. It is possible but why does it keep persisting? Maybe the hook got caught on my shirt and the metal point is the one jabbing me? I can sense Susan being smug as I got nothing for her to argue. Stubborn I try to find the hanger but my fingers found nothing that did not resemble a hanger.

"I didn't find a hanger Susan nor did I find a coat. Even it was a coat, I doubt the fabric would be that rough." I said. "What I'm saying is, move your arm!"

Susan and I continue our intellectual debate blocking out Peter's attempt to put a stop to it.

...

"Everyone be quiet!" Peter hisses to his arguing siblings and Claire. If they do not lessen, Macready will find them and punish them for the mess they made. Peter cannot even fathom as to what caused the others to get combative with each other. Perhaps the space of the wardrobe is getting to them.

'Cramped like sardines.' Peter thought with discomfort. "Susan, Claire, stop it right now!" order Peter as the oldest amongst the five.

The girls did not even hear him. He is not going to attempt to talk to Edmund and Lucy since they are further back than him. Peter wishes the day had gone normal. Why must things always happen to him?

None of the debating group had notice they have not reach the back of the wardrobe yet nor that the branches hidden amongst the fur coats. That they are slowly edging away from Professor Kirke and from England. With each step taken they get much closer to a new destination that waits for them beyond the wood.

Peter's heel catches on an object losing his balance falling back. Unfortunately, Susan and Claire stumbled over his feet squealing/shrieking in surprise. They land on either side of him.

Peter feels the icy cold biting into his hands. His pants getting a tad saggy the more he sat on the ground. He flex his hands to feel the mush of snow moving in the palms of his hands.

Peter, along with Susan, turn to see a forest, an entire forest behind them. It is snowing. Tiny snowflakes fall from the cloudy sky. It is the most incredible sight of the older Pevensies have ever seen. It stunned them to the core, their belief system, to be in a snowing forest while not a few minutes ago they were in Professor Kirke's house in England, in the middle of the summer.

"Impossible." breaths out Susan. Eyes wide as her mind tries to get the logical side of things.

Claire smiles up at them with snow dusting her dark hair. "All things can be possible. You just have to be willing to find it."

"Don't worry." Lucy brings her hands behind her back. "I'm sure it is only your imagination." she said in a mocking voice to her older siblings.

Peter faces his siter. "I don't suppose saying we're sorry would quite cover it." said Peter, in hopes she forgives them at their blatant refusal of this all.

Lucy stands there thinking about it for a moment. It secretly pleases her to watch her brother squirm. "No, it wouldn't." She ignores Claire giving her a suspicious look. "But this might!"

Claire ducks out of the way as a snowball flies over her head. She watches in satisfactory as the snowball pelts Peter.

Peter swayed sideways by the force of the unexpected attack. He wiped bits of melted snow off his face.

A giggle came from Claire that soon becomes an unstoppable laughter. She stops abruptly when Peter swoops down to scoop up a handful of snow. He compacts the snow in the shape of a ball. His eyes trained on Claire.

Claire's posture goes ridged, alert. "Don't you dare, Pevensie." she warns.

"I dare Jones." Peter replies evenly, his eyes twinkling mischievous as his lip twitches.

Claire ducks as Peter throws the snowball at her. "Ahaha you mi-"

Claire recoil back as a snowball hits her in the face. She spats out a mouthful of snow. A look of pure revulsion on her face. "Ew, there were bits of grass in it!" She clutches her stomach in dramatics.

"Quit being dramatic." Peter said with a roll of his eyes.

Peter is thrown off balance as he is assaulted by not one but two snowballs. The first being by Claire understandably but the second surprisingly by Susan.

"You had it coming Peter." Susan chirps, another snowball in her left hand.

A game of a snowball fight begins!

While the four of them are having fun, Edmund keeps to himself. He is lost to his own thoughts once again. He absent mindlessly look in another direction while the others play around.

Susan has taken a notice to Edmund being secluded from the game. With determination to include her younger brother, Susan throws the snowball. It hits him in the arm.

"Ow!" Edmund complains, rubbing his arm. "Stop it!"

Everything has stopped at once as both

Peter and Susan realize the truth. Everything Lucy had told them was true. Claire and Professor Kirke were right in their findings. Edmund was the one who lied the whole time.

"You little liar." said Peter menacing. He steps advance towards Edmund.

Edmund takes a step back as fear gets a hold of him. "You didn't belive her either!" replies Edmund.

A twinge of guilt bubbles in Peter's stomach. He knows Edmund was right but he shoves the logic aside. "I said apologize to Lucy." It intensify his anger as Edmund remains quiet. "I said say you're sorry." Peter implies a bit force to his words.

Edmund has bulked under the glare he is on the receiving end of. "All right, I'm sorry!" Edmund tosses out fast.

Peter cam feel the heated glare burning a hole in his back. He can give a guess who it is from. He would get no consultation prize for that one.

"Peter," begins Claire in a firm voice, "whether you take my advice I care not but do not force Edmund. He does have a mind of his own. Let him be the one to apologize on his own terms. Not yours." Claire reprimands Peter. She is astounded by the hostility Peter gave onto Edmund. An act he did not deserve no matter what he did.

Peter can feel his blood rushing up his neck. It has been a few years since Peter has been scolded by his mother. He can handle being scolded by Susan since with her it is far and few when he has done something she does not improve. With Claire doing the scolding he feels a little humiliated at best.

For one second, Edmund has sent Claire a doubtful yet relieved look. Claire became confused because she saw a brief glimpse of regret or remorse mixed in as well but it was too quick for her to tell. She dismisses it as nothing and focus on the present at hand.

"That's all right. "Some children just don't know when to stop pretending."" Lucy quotes the words Edmund spoke last night.

"Oh very funny." Edmund reply sarcastic.

Susan brings her arms closer to her person. She runs her cold hands up and down her forearms to bring back the warmth to her body. "Maybe it is best for us to go back to Professor Kirke's." Susan suggests as she shivers from the onslaught of the cold.

At this Edmund widen his eyes. "But shouldn't we at least take a look around?" ask Edmund, a tinge hopeful they might agree with him.

"I think Lucy should decide." Peter places his input on the subject.

All eyes go to Claire has they wait to hear on her thoughts. Claire looks up to find all of them staring at her. She realize what they want and her cheeks colored a little as she mentally berated herself on her part.

"Well, I too belive Lucy should be the one to decide what to do." Claire sees the incredulous looks from Susan and Edmund. "I mean she was the one who told us about Narnia in the first place." She explains to them her reason.

Lucy gasps as an idea struck her. "I'd like you all to meet Mr. Tumnus!" exclaims Lucy beaming.

"Well, then Mr. Tumnus it is." Peter seconds after Lucy.

Claire crosses her arms taping a finger on her chin in thought. "I wonder what Mr. Tumnus will say when he sees a large group of people on his doorstep." she amuses out loud.

Susan shivers as an icy wind blows. "But we can't go hiking in the snow dressed as we are. We are wearing summer clothes not winter." She explains the obvious.

Peter gives a silent sigh as he walks back to the wardrobe. Trust Susan to be the logical one to damper the joy.

Claire agrees with his train of thought. "Susan, we gotten here through the wardrobe that is filled to the brim with fur coats." she states dryly.

Peter grabs a few coats nearest to him. "I'm sure the professor wouldn't mind us using these." He hands the girls each a coat of different types of brown. "In a way if you think about it logically," a glance to Susan, "we're not even taking them out of the wardrobe." Peter hands a coat with a mix of gray and black to Edmund.

Edmund is in pure horror by the coat. "But that's a girl's coat!" He cries in protest.

"I know." Peter has made sure to find a woman's coat for Edmund. He knows how much his brother would react to such a thing.

Edmund glares at Peter for a minute before he grudgingly takes the coat. He swears he will get Peter back for this.

When they put the coats on, the cold no longer chilled them to the bone. Lucy starts the journey through the forest. As they walk on through, they came upon the iron lamppost. The spent a few minutes asking Lucy questions and she tries to answer them as best as she could.

Next they tread carefully down a steep hill. Peter runs forward stumbling as he meets the snowy floor with a laugh. Susan plops herself on the ground making a snow angel. Claire runs forward spinning in a circle with her arms spread out until she gets dizzy. She falls the snow cushioning her fall.

They laugh as they finally enjoy their time away from Professor Kirke. The only one who isn't having none of the nonsense is Edmund. He remains silent as he observes the four with disinterest. He thinks of them to be childish and a hindrance.

"...lots and lots of lovely food and we'll have lots and lots of..." Lucy trails off as she stares off in the distance.

Peter looks to see Lucy staring at a wooden door hanging off its hinges. The door appears to be broken into be a strong force.

"Oh no." Claire mutters, afriad.

Peter catches her eyes to see sadness and fear coming from them. He furrows his brow with a shake of his head in confusion. Catching on Claire mouths, 'Mr. Tumnus,' gazing from Lucy to the broken/smashed door.

Peter's eyes widen as he finally got the message. "Lu?" Peter ask his frozen sister. "Lucy?" He takes a tentative step forward.

Lucy gasps breaking into a run/charging straight head on to the invaded home. She did not think of there being any danger in the home. She thought of her friend, Mr. Tumnus and if he is okay.

"Lucy!" Peter and Claire yell in alarm.

"Lucy, wait! You don't know if someone is still there!" Claire cries, fearing for the worst.

They chase after her thinking up conclusions like there could be intruders lying in wait for their next victim. The outside may appear undisturbed but the inside is unknown hiding whatever that caused this destruction. The very thought urges them forward to the house. When they enter the house, they can see the debris of a ruined home. The furniture were upturned or thrown into bits of pieces the cushions ripped apart. The bookshelves knocked over as the books lay on the floor with ruined bindings and ripped pages. Broken glass littered the floor as well as the white stuffing and wooden splinters. It looked like a bomb went off and exploded but it confined in the small space.

"Who would do something like this?" Lucy ask.

Peter wraps an arm around Lucy as she hugs herself over to him for comfort.

"It is best you don't know Lucy." said Claire in a broken voice. "Whatever happened to Mr. Tumnus, we should not get involved in it."

"But-"

"No buts," Susan cuts in, "Lucy you charged in here not knowing if there was any danger still." Her gaze softens. "You could have gotten hurt."

Lucy stares at her shoes realizing what Susan said. "I'm sorry I was not thinking."

"It is okay. The only thing matters is you are safe now." Peter tells Lucy reassuring her.

Everyone jumps to when a sound of glass breaking amplify the quiet house. They spend a few seconds searching for the source, afraid who or what destroyed the house is back. They could be hiding in the shadows waiting until the opportune moment to strike.

In the end, it turned out Edmund had stepped on to a fallen portrait of an older faun. A breath of relief is release as their fear was/is for nothing. Still their guard hasn't been completely lowered. They remain up until they are safe elsewhere.

"What is that over there?" question Claire, noticing a piece of parchment attached to the wall.

Peter walks over to the wall ripping the parchment off the nail it was connected to. He examines the fancy script as the girls peer around Peter to get a closer look as well.

'The faun Tumnus is here by charged with High Treason against Her Imperial Majesty, Jadis, Queen of Narnia, for comforting her enemies and fraternizing with humans.

Signed Maugrim, Captain of the Secret Police

Long Live the Queen'

"Jadis?" Claire spoke out loud. "Why does the name sound familiar?" She stays quiet a thoughtful expression on her face.

"All right now we really should go back." said Susan worried.

"But what about Mr. Tumnus?" Lucy speaks out. "We can't just leave."

"Lucy, if he was arrested just for being with a human, I don't think there's much we can do." Susan argues knowing this is a lost case.

Peter feels Claire go rigid beside hin. He turns around to see her face go pale. Her eyes darts from the debris, to the parchment, and land on Lucy. Something must have clicked as a small gasp escapes her lips.

Unaware of Peter, Claire continues to stare at Lucy in disbelief and... disappointment? "Everything he told us... were true. Yet we returned here... forgetful." she whispers with a frown.

Peter places his hand on her arm. Claire did not jump but she met his eyes with her tearful ones.

He is surprise/startle by her guilty appearance. "Why are you..." He stops unsure how to go on from this.

Claire understood where Peter is going/what Peter meant. "It is a bit difficult to explain."

"You don't understand, do you?" Lucy's voice breaks the spell Peter and Claire are currently under. "I am the human. She must have found he helped me." said Lucy, realization dawning her.

This snaps Claire out of her mind. "That wouldn't be impossible. The first time you came here by yourself with no knowledge of Narnia. The second time I went with you but even... then-" Claire furrows her brow as she thinks of other possibilities. Then she peers over their shoulders to gaze at an object with narrow eyes in suspicion.

Peter glance behind to see only Edmund within sight. However, Edmund must have catch onto Claire's meaning and glares at her for her unheard assumptions. His brother turn to him and shakes his head dismissing Claire's suspicions.

"Maybe we could call the police." Peter suggested. "I'm sure they would help us get back Mr. Tumnus."

Susan grabs the parchment out of his hand. "These are the police!" she snaps, waving the paper in his face.

"Uh huh, I'm sure they will help by arresting us for being humans." Claire replies cheerful with a smile.

Peter stares at Susan and Claire thinking they have gone mad. He brings Lucy closer to him. "Don't worry Lu. We'll think of something to help your friend." he comforts his youngest sister.

"Why should we even try to help him?" pipes in Edmund. "I mean, he's a criminal for goodness sake." explains the third sibling to the group. "This Mr. Tumnus could be a danger to us!"

"Do not say that about Mr. Tumnus!" Claire snaps giving Edmund the evil eye. "You barely know him!"

"And you think you do with a few hours spent with the faun." Edmund gaze at Claire in disbelief. "Please."

Claire's gaze hardened and if looks could kill, well Edmund would not be standing. "In those few hours, I managed to get to know Mr. Tumnus. I discovered he was a kind man- faun I had the pleasure of meeting." She eyes him up and down. "I can't really say the same for you. You didn't show me the same courtesy." she sneers.

Edmund's face colored as he opens his mouth to retort. Peter steps in putting an end to the argument. He mutters lowly to Claire how she is not treating Edmund with kindness. She faces the other way folding her arms with indifference.

"Psst."

Everyone looks to one another in confusion.

"Did you...?" Peter attempts to ask Claire.

Claire shakes her head. "No. You?" she directs her question to Edmund. He stands next to the doorway. He is the one closest to the door.

Edmund shakes his head no.

"Psst."

By the door, a bright red Robin sits upon a branch closest to the door. There was no other living person or thing standing outside but the bird. Could that mean...?

"Did that bird just... 'psst' us?" ask Susan. She must be hearing things but it still does not explain the sound.

Claire grabs Lucy's hand as the rest follow Peter outside, in to the unknown. As they inch ever closer, the robin flies away disappearing from their line of vision.

A loud rustling is heard amongst the bushes to the right.

They peer in the general direction alert.

Then another sound of scurrying with the crunch of snow shifting from an unknown weight. It comes to the left of the group.

It is at this point Peter forces everyone to stop, to not move another muscle in the area. It has been brought up no one really knows what type of creatures live in the forest. Narnia is different from Earth. Narnia is a world where your imagination can run wild thinking impossibilities.

The snap of a twig amplifies in the front as quick scurrying moves to the bushes. They rustle about in jittery movement from the new intruder.

Peter's pulse quickens as he tries to think of a plan. He knows of it to be fruitless as they are surrounded by the animals. Maybe he can fight the animals long enough for Edmund and the girls to retreat back into the house. His heart missed a beat as he thought of the other animals going after them as he fight the one in front of him.

Peter can sense the girls gathering behind him For protection. Edmund stands alone glued to his spot out of fear to move any further. Someone grab unto Peter's hand with their own shaking.

"Peter," the face of his father appears in front of him. "I am relaying on you to take care of your mother and your siblings. You are the man in charge when I leave." He places a hand on Peter's shoulder. "Protect them at all cost, understood?"

Peter had promised his dad/father almost a year and a half ago to watch his family. He intends to keep his end of the bargain no matter the cost. Until his father is back from war, Peter will do anything to keep them safe.

Peter breathes deep to steady his scattered nerves. He stands tall shoulders back as he becomes determined to protect and save everyone. He will do whatever it takes for them to remain injured free. Peter will fight no matter the cost.

AN: So, what do you guys think of this new development? Love it? Hate it? Please tell me your thoughts in the reviews! If you spot any mistakes dealing with grammar or anything, let me know. I expect honest criticism to improve my writing!

Until then, review!