What happened in Between
He walked one way. Then he walked the other. Then he walked back again.
"Edmund, you're going to where a hole in the floor," a small female voice said.
Edmund stopped his pacing, and looked over at his younger sister. The three siblings sat in the throne room of Cair Paravel. Glass windows were on every side to let in the bright sunlight, and marble stone reflected the floor.
"Sorry," he mumbled.
Lucy laughed.
"They'll come when they come. And the messenger said they would come today. So stop worrying," said Edmund's elder sister, Susan.
"It's been nearly two months since he left," Edmund said. "I think that I have a good reason to want him home faster."
"Peter is alright Edmund. You need to stop worrying and be patient."
Five minutes later, it was Susan pacing.
"I thought you said not to worry," laughed Edmund.
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Peter smelled the fresh air. It felt so good to be home. But he felt good about the events that had happened. They had stopped the northern barbarians from coming, and had made an alliance with Archenland.
"Two birds with one stone," he thought.
Though Archenland had been wonderful, and the king and queen had been generous, Peter had decided it was time to head home. They had invited them to stay longer, but Peter knew that neither he nor the other Narnians wanted to.
Peter looked to his left at a large centaur, the general Orieus. His steps had suddenly become lighter and freer. He then looked to his right. Miranda looked like she was about to pass out on her horse Onyx, but the light in her eyes shone bright. They could all feel it. The Narnian air that made them strong was quickly working on them.
"Want to race home?" He asked the companions beside him. He never got an answer. The next second, the two were running for Cair Paravel.
"No fair!"
Miranda and Orieus only laughed.
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Edmund suddenly heard pounding hooves. He raced from the throne room to an outer balcony overlooking the courtyard. Looking to the gates, he saw a centaur, and two human figures enter.
"Susan! Lucy!" Edmund shouted, as he raced down the stairs. He could feel his sisters behind him as they ran into the courtyard. A golden haired young man came down from his horse, and was attacked by his three siblings.
"By golly, give me room to catch my breath!" Peter exclaimed, but his voice was full of laughter. Miranda smiled, and took the reins of his white horse. She would let him spend some time with his family.
Leading Onyx and Peter's horse to the stables, Miranda sighed. It felt good to be home.
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Miranda had planned on sleeping in the next morning, but the morning would not let her. As soon as the sun came up, it shone through her window and woke her up. She opened her eyes, and looked around the room. Silk curtains hung inside a balcony facing the sea, and the room was the color of creamy stones.
"Why did I pick a room with a window that faces east?"
But as she got up and out of bed, she was glad that she had been woken up early. The morning was beautiful. Miranda watched as the sun rose over the sea's horizon. She heard the mermaids sing, and watched young centaur colts playing in the fields.
Miranda dressed in some fresh clothing, put her weapons on, and left her room.
"Warrior!" she heard in the hallway.
She turned around to see a faun running towards her.
"What is it good faun?" she asked.
"Werewolves have been seen near Lantern Waste!"
Miranda sighed. Would they ever be rid of the Witch's minions?
"Saddle Onyx and put provisions in his saddle bags! Then call up a group of ten to fifteen soldiers!" She ordered the faun. Then she went to find Tumnus.
She found him in the library looking over some documents.
"Mr. Tumnus," she said.
"Miranda, you are up early," Tumnus exclaimed.
"And it's a good thing too. Werewolves have been spotted near Lantern Waste. If you would inform their majesties of where I have gone, I would most appreciate it."
"Of course Miranda," Tumnus replied, but with an expression on his face that Miranda couldn't read.
"Thank you."
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Tumnus was worried. Miranda had not been home yet for twenty-four hours, and already they needed her to do something. It didn't seem right to him. But if she was determined to go, go she would. That was one thing he had learned about her.
He walked into the royal rooms were the Kings and Queens were just finishing breakfast. Tumnus smiled as he looked over at the High King. Already he looked much better after a full nights rest.
He bowed before them as he approached.
"Mr. Tumnus, good morning," Lucy said with enthusiasm. She was always happy to see her best friend.
"Good morning Lucy, your majesties."
"And a good morning to you too Mr. Tumnus," Peter said with laughter in his voice. "It is good to see you again."
"And it is good to see you as well your highness after all the worrying you had us in."
That set everyone laughing.
"You look troubled," Susan said suddenly, and Tumnus had to keep himself from rolling his eyes. No one could keep things hidden for long with her around.
"To be precise Queen Susan, I have come with a message from the warrior."
"Really?" King Peter said, surprised.
"Yes sire. Apparently, werewolves were spotted near Lantern Waste, and Miranda was asked to help immediately."
"And she went?" Peter questioned.
"It appeared to be urgent sir. And you know how she can get."
Peter closed his eyes. Yes, he did know.
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Miranda's sword dug into the heart of yet another werewolf, and she took a moment to look around her. When they said that they needed help, they needed help! It was a huge pack of werewolves; she thought about 30 to 40 of them. And they had to chase them for miles before they had gotten close enough for an attack.
She stood beside Hunta and Orieus as they surveyed the scene before them. All of the werewolves were dead, and thankfully, none of their own had been killed. Some were badly wounded, some were so exhausted that they couldn't stand, but the job was done. Miranda looked up to the sky. It was just after noon.
"Orieus, send a messenger to Cair Paravel to report on our success. Have the messenger also tell the Kings and Queens that we should be back at around dusk."
"Of course Miranda," the centaur general replied.
Miranda was exhausted. She walked over to Onyx, and rubbed his sweaty back.
"You did well most noble steed."
"As did you great warrior," Onyx replied.
"He is right Miranda," Hunta's voice said behind Miranda. "But to be quite frank with you, I believe that you need a rest."
"The fox is also right," Onyx commented.
"Oh wonderful! Now I have two talking animals looking after my welfare," Miranda said with a laugh.
Hunta and Onyx joined in the laugh with her, but quickly became serious again.
"Miranda, you are looking more tired than normal," Hunta noted.
"And paler as well," Onyx added.
Miranda sighed and said;
"I needed more than one night of sleep to completely recuperate. But don't worry about it. A few days of better rest and I will be fine."
Hunta and Onyx said nothing more, and the matter was dropped. But Miranda did not know that even after that, both of them doubted that she would be given the chance to rest.
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It was now a week since they had come back, and Peter was beginning to worry about Miranda. He had been informed by Hunta and Onyx of their worries. And though Peter had tried to keep news of other raids or attacks from Miranda, someone always got word to her. And now, the toll of it was really showing on her.
Peter paced the throne room, waiting. Finally, his general stepped through the door.
"Orieus, thank you for coming so quickly."
"I had a feeling of what this was going to be about, so I didn't even hesitate to come sir," Orieus replied.
Peter looked right into the deep set eyes of the centaur.
"Miranda has been out doing things every day since we got back from Archenland. I have yet to see her rest, let alone get a moment to tell her to stop."
"I know your highness, but even I cannot keep news from getting to her. If it were reported to someone besides herself, maybe a solution would be found."
Peter turned around to look at the sunset. The sun had become a deep orange, and shadows could be seen on the grassy hills.
"She has enough on her plate without having to go out and fight battles that can be won without her." Peter turned to face his general. "Find some trusted men of yours. Put them up as captains for the scouts to report to. Unless absolutely necessary, I do not want Miranda going out for fights that others can win."
Orieus smiled, and bowed down to his young king. He left the throne room to do as King Peter commanded, and Peter went to go find Miranda.
He found her along the beach, asleep. He smiled. Surely now, things would get better.
As if she knew someone was there, Miranda woke up, and started when she saw him watching her.
"King Peter! Forgive me sire! I…"
"Miranda, it's alright!" Peter interrupted. "In fact, I am hoping to catch you asleep more often."
"Sir?"
"Miranda, name one day this week that you rested well."
Miranda didn't answer him.
"Exactly." Then Peter proceeded to tell her of his meeting with Orieus, and what they had decided.
"But, Peter…"
"No more buts Miranda!" Peter ordered. "Now go inside, get in your bed, and actually sleep. That is an order."
Peter watched Miranda's shoulders relax, and a smile light on her face.
"Thank you Peter."
Peter smiled. No sire. No your highness. No King. Just Peter.
"No need for thanks Miranda."
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Orieus looked over at Peter and the letter that he had just handed the King. The two were standing in the council room where they often held meetings of great importance or urgency. Maps hung on one wall, and portraits of past kings and queens hung on another. Both started when they heard the door opened. Miranda entered.
"You sent for me sire."
"Yes I did Miranda. I wish you to look at this."
As Miranda crossed the room, Orieus looked over them closely. Over three years ago, the two had never felt a sword before, and now neither went without one by their side. Back then, neither had fought before. And now, both held battle scars. Peter, now 18, had grown another 4 inches, and his shoulders were becoming broader. Miranda, now the age of 17, almost matched Peter in height; having grown 3 inches, and her hair now reached down to her chest. The two had indeed changed, and it made Orieus smile.
Orieus watched as Miranda read the letter, and as her expression quickly changed.
"Surely you are not really thinking about doing this!" Miranda exclaimed.
"I have to admit," Peter began, "I was surprised when I read the letter, but right now, I am considering it. It would be good to have peace with Calormene."
"Yes, it would be good, but impossible," Miranda protested.
"Impossible! Miranda, think of all the good that could be done through this. We could finally have peace with a country that has never wanted peace before."
"Do you not see what it says though Peter?! Over 50 of them would be here! I do not protest upon peace talks, but only one or two, possibly three people are needed for that. 50 is asking too much."
"Do you really think so?"
"I do."
Peter stroked his chin for a few minutes.
"What if I asked them to lessen the number, say, by at least half of what they ask?"
"Are you really wishing to do this sire?" Miranda asked in a disbelieving voice.
"I wish for peace Miranda," Peter replied, agitation showing over her concerns.
"Then do as you wish sire," she said in a defiant tone, "Just don't ask me to be any part of this!"
With that, Miranda left the room.
Peter paced the floor. Suddenly, he stopped to look his general in the eye.
"Am I being unreasonable Orieus?"
Orieus had to admit that even he was surprised at Miranda's reaction. It was unlike her to argue or disagree with anything King Peter said. This was very unlike her.
"I do not believe so sir?"
"Then why did she react like that? You know her better than many of us."
"Yes sire, but even I am surprised how she just reacted. It is very strange for her to react that way at all!"
"That is what is puzzling me Orieus. That reaction, that attitude, it's something she would not normally do."
"I wonder what is troubling her so much about this your highness."
Peter looked at the open door that Miranda had exited through.
"So do I Orieus. So do I."
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Miranda's hair whipped across her face as she rode Onyx, running as fast as his legs could go.
What was Peter thinking? Bringing so many Calormenes here? Peter saw only the good that could come out of the peace talks. But Miranda saw a great deal of bad. Why would they ask for such a large number of men to come for a peace talk? It was too many. Even cutting the number by half was asking her too much. 25 of them within Cair Paravel would be enough to capture all 4 kings and queens without any problem at all.
It was Miranda's job to make sure that the kings and queens were safe. But Peter's actions in doing this made it a lot harder than it needed to be. Sighing, she reined Onyx in and turned him around, back to Cair Paravel.
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4 days later in Calormene, a young man named Rahashan read a letter sent from Narnia. A smile crept up his face as he read its contents.
"Perfect," he muttered.
"What is perfect?" a voice questioned.
Rahashan looked up from his letter. He was sitting at the head of a long table, where 9 other men sat, all sitting on cushions of silk. The room had a tall ceiling, and 10 windows looking out from every side. There were foreign markings on the walls, and two arches over the entrance doors, with gold bars over them. Last of all was a tile mosaic of their god, Tash, on the ceiling.
"I have just received a letter from the high king of Narnia. He welcomes us and graciously accepts meeting us for our… peace terms."
The men around the table smiled and laughed.
"But, he does have one request…"
The men fell silent.
"…that we lessen our number of representatives to half."
The men seemed to breathe a sigh of relief.
"Half?" the voice at the other end of the table spoke. A dark skinned man with a scar over one eye smiled. "That is still enough."
"Yes," Rahashan whispered. "It is enough."
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A few days later, Peter read another letter. Similar to the last one he had received, but with a reply. A smile crossed his face.
"Finally," hethought, "Our two kingdoms will have peace!"
Peter tensed when he heard footsteps outside of the council room. He had ordered no one to come in. Putting a hand to the hilt of his sword, he waited for the doors to open.
The doors burst open, and Miranda stepped in. Peter's muscles relaxed, but he felt slightly angered by the scare.
"I ordered no one to enter for a reason Miranda! Please do not startle me to death."
"Forgive me sire, but I did have a matter that had to come past the orders of the king."
"What does that mean Miranda?"
"It means that I had to really sneak past Orieus to get in here."
Peter burst into laughter. Whatever anger he had felt vanished. She really did have a good reason to see him, especially to get past Orieus.
"What is it then?" he said, trying to sound serious, but failing.
"Calormen sir, are at the outer border of Narnia, near the great falls."
"Already?!" Peter gasped.
"Ah," Miranda sighed, "I had a feeling that you had gotten word."
"Yes, but I did not expect them so suddenly!"
"Obviously sir, they took the meaning of your letter well. They probably began packing the minute they sent that," she replied, looking at the letter in his hand.
Peter put his hand on Miranda's shoulder and said;
"Thank you so much for this information. I need to get out there to greet them immediately!"
Peter nearly ran to the doors, and was just about to open them when he heard Miranda's voice speaking to him.
"I believe that I owe you an apology my king." Peter stopped and turned around. Miranda's head was bowed low, and her words were soft. "It is not my place to be so harsh upon the decisions that you make. You are trying to do what is best for your kingdom, and I nearly bit your head off."
Miranda took a deep breath, and continued.
"It was neither my wish to part the way that we did. I ask your forgiveness sire."
Peter let out a relieved sigh. For the past week, they had not talked at all about what had happened. Come to think of it, Peter couldn't remember talking much to each other at all. But here Miranda was, apologizing about her reactions and what had happened.
"Apology accepted Miranda. And I thank you," Peter replied, and then opened the door.
As he was closing the door, he noticed Miranda had not moved.
"Aren't you coming?" Peter asked.
"If you please Peter, allow me a few minutes for Orieus to get away before I come out."
Peter had to contain his laughter.
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Rahashan allowed a small smile to cross his face as he saw the kings and queens of Narnia riding out towards them. Behind them were other Narnian representatives and creatures.
He looked at the golden haired boy, who must be the High King Peter, and had to keep himself from laughing. He must be no more than 18, younger than Rahashan had expected. A golden crown with high tiers in the shape of leaves rested over his golden hair, and sea blue eyes were noticeable as he wore robes of midnight blue and gold; riding a horse of purest white. To his right, another young boy rode on a chestnut horse, his hair and eyes dark brown. A silver crown with vine shapes covering it sat on his head, and he wore silvery blue robes. To the left of the kings, Rahashan saw two young girls; the queens of Narnia. One was nearly a woman, with a crown of golden blossoms in full bloom shaping over her dark brown hair. Her blue eyes were accentuated with the violet dress she wore as she rode a dark brown horse. The youngest of the rulers rode a gray horse, her dark brown hair holding a crown of small silver flowers. Her eyes were the same blue as her sister's, and she wore a dress of crimson red and gold.
Rahashan bowed before the kings and queens as they approached, as did the 25 other representatives from Calormene.
"Welcome to the land of Narnia! Arise weary travelers," the high king's voice shouted.
"Your welcome is most appreciated your majesty," replied the Calormenes.
"If I may ask, whom is your chosen leader?" his voice rang out.
Rahashan stepped forward, and said;
"I am sire. These men chose me as their leader."
"Then please come forward," the King requested, dismounting his horse.
Rahashan walked towards the young king, and they grasped each other's hands.
"I see that you took no time to get here," the King Peter laughed.
Rahashan laughed with him.
"Yes sire, we did not want to waste any time."
"I am glad to hear that. Now if I may make official introductions sir…."
"My name is Lord Rahashan, of the House of Shasta."
"Then, Lord Rahashan, may I introduce my brother, King Edmund the Just," he said, indicating his brother. Rahashan bowed as the king nodded his head, "And my sisters, Queen Susan the Gentle, and Queen Lucy the Valiant." Again Rahashan bowed.
"And if may introduce the General Orieus," he continued, indicating perhaps the largest centaur Rahashan had ever seen.
"And, "the king began, raising his hand to behind Rahashan, "the Warrior of Narnia."
Now, I think it important for you to know just what went through Rahashan's mind before he turned around. The thoughts in his head went somewhat like this;
"Aha, a warrior! Probably just the biggest and stupidest of bodyguards they could find. Should not be too much trouble."
But as Rahashan turned around, his thoughts immediately turned the other direction. He then thought;
"I might be wrong."
What he saw was a young woman with piercing hazel eyes that seemed to look straight through him. She wore clothes of a man, with a sword and dagger hugging her waist, and a bow and quiver full of arrows on her back. She brought her hand towards him, and he grasped it in a handshake. Her eyes never left his face, and Rahashan flinched. Would she not stop staring at him?
"This is Miranda the Courageous, Lord Rahashan," King Peter stated, bringing him out of his reverie.
"Pleased to make your acquaintance," she said.
"And your's Warrior," Rahashan replied, but didn't really mean it. She made him feel quite uncomfortable.
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Miranda reflected on the meeting with the Calormenes as they rode back to Cair Paravel. So far, they seemed perfectly calm and controlled, but Miranda had noticed the way that Rahashan's eyes had flinched when she looked at him.
She turned to look at the other Calormen. All of them were dark skinned and dressed in brightly colored silk clothing. Only one of them looked at all different from the others. That one was dressed in black, and a she noticed a scar across his right eye. Something seemed familiar about him; but what?
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Peter woke up the next day with a nagging feeling. It wasn't like he thought something bad was going to happen, or that he had done something wrong the day before. It was that sort of nagging that made you think that you had forgotten something.
He got out of his bed and took a deep breath. The morning air smelled good. He opened his eyes and glanced around his room. Scarlet red curtains hung by a wide window, held back by gold rope. The furniture was of purest ivory, and the bed was midnight blue. A large tapestry of the Battle at Beruna hung on the wall facing the west, and a painting of Aslan faced the north.
He quickly got up and dressed in clothes fit for sparring. He put his sword, Rhindon, on his waist, and ran out of the room. He felt good this day. He felt as if a huge weight was being lifted off his shoulders with the arrival of the Calormen.
He stopped by the kitchen to grab a small roll of bread, then raced down a flight of stairs to a circle of grass where he and his brother normally sparred. Edmund was already there, his sword in hand.
"You're late!" Edmund said strictly.
"I know, I know. I slept in late," Peter replied apologetically.
"Well, come on then. I'm going to lose anyway," Edmund whined. Orieus had very nearly ordered them to do this every morning, just to keep their skills sharp. While the Peter enjoyed the exercise, Edmund hated them. He never could get the upper hand of his brother.
"If I may watch your majesties," Peter heard from behind them, and turned to see Rahashan. Peter suddenly became wary, though he didn't know why. He was about to protested, but then he saw Miranda approach them out of the corner of his eye. Orieus was right behind her.
"Of course, Lord Rahashan," Peter replied, relaxing.
The two kings drew their swords, and attacked. Peter went for the defensive, and blocked every blow that Edmund tried to deal him.
"Watch your feet," Peter heard Miranda say, and he saw Edmund's foot position change.
Edmund tried from the left, then the right, then right again, but Peter gave him no opening. He then tried one of the sword tricks that Orieus had taught them, but Peter saw it coming and moved his sword away. Then Peter went into his offensive mode, and his brother went into the defensive. Peter slammed his sword again and again, and could feel his brother's grip on his sword weaken. Finally Edmund shouted;
"Enough Peter! I've had enough!"
"Well, that was mighty short king brother," Peter grinned.
"That is because I didn't practice at all while you were gone. It was longer than yesterday's though," Edmund protested, making Peter laugh.
"If you want a long duel sire, I can give you one," Miranda said from behind them.
Peter turned around, and the nagging feeling came back. Had he forgotten something?
"Are you certain Miranda? Last time we dueled, it was quite short, and I won."
"The last time we dueled was three months before we left for battle sir. I think that I want a rematch."
"Very well Miranda," Peter relented. But secretly, he was happy for the challenge.
He picked up his sword that he had dropped on the ground, and took position. Miranda drew her sword, Alanosa, and took her own position. Peter fully expected her to take the offensive and begin attacking, but Miranda just stood there, not moving. Peter took that as a challenge, and threw Rhindon on her. Alanosa was raised high, and the blow was blocked. The duel had begun.
One moment, Peter seemed to have the advantage, but then, Miranda made a move that would turn the table, and she would have the upper hand. Peter would slam his sword down on her in offense, the next second; he would have to quickly take the defensive. He was surprised at the quickness and fierceness of her attacks, but then, she would stop and take the defense. It was all so confusing!
Then, finally, something stopped the circle. Miranda suddenly jumped onto a higher rock and flipped over Peter, causing him to turn very fast. Head swimming, he swung his sword, missing her entirely. She landed on the soft grass floor, and kicked his legs out from under him. Peter fell, stunned. The next moment, he saw her sword inches away from his face.
"You lose," she pronounced, breathing heavily.
"So I do Miranda," Peter replied, sweat pouring from his brow. "You have greatly improved. Now, you need to teach me that last maneuver that you did."
"With pleasure your majesty," Miranda replied, obviously pleased.
"High King, never have I seen such a duel before!" Rahashan exclaimed from the side. "Such skill, such quickness, absolutely incredible!"
"I am glad that you have enjoyed yourself Lord Rahashan. Now, if it please you to gather the other representatives of your land, I shall meet you in the council room in half an hour."
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As soon as Rahashan was out of eyesight, his features quickly changed from pleasure to panic. He had been telling the truth when he said that he had never seen such a duel, but he lied by trying to make it a compliment.
That king fought like no Calormen he had ever seen! He was quick, cunning, skillful, and watched the moves of his opponent closely. And that warrior! Never had he seen someone that would have matched the king, yet this girl had. She had even beaten him! Maybe with a surprise move, but she still had.
They may have to change their plans.
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Miranda stood just outside the council room, pacing the floor. Every person in there had no weapons, and the kings and queens were surrounded by other Narnians. Why then was she so tense and worried? She didn't want to be. She wanted to be as happy and relieved about this as her monarchs were.
But she couldn't. A huge conflict arose within her. She wanted to help her kings and queens, but Miranda didn't see how they could have peace with a nation that did not share their love for Aslan. She did not even see a reason why they should have any dealings with people that worshipped another. It was dangerous, more dangerous than their majesties knew.
She continued to pace the floor when she felt someone behind her. Hand on her sword, she swung around, and gasped;
"Father Christmas!" she exclaimed.
He laughed at her surprised face. His long white-blonde beard reached down to his chest, and his round belly jiggled.
"If my calendar is correct, it is not Christmas yet," Miranda said, still surprised.
"Yes, yes I know. But it is another tradition for me to show up at every person's 18th birthday," he replied.
Miranda closed her eyes. How had she forgotten her own birthday? When she woke up, she knew what day it was, but it slipped her mind the rest of the day. Come to think of it, it seemed like everyone had forgotten, except one.
"Aslan told me to give you his best wishes," Father Christmas continued.
Scratch that. Two had remembered.
"Now, judging by the look on your face, you forgot."
Miranda laughed, and said;
"Yes sir. Things have been busier than normal."
"Yes young warrior, and I share your concern."
"Sir?" Miranda questioned, puzzled.
"I don't like them here anymore than you do," he explained.
Miranda felt her breathing become heavy.
"What am I supposed to do sir? Does Aslan have any advice for me?"
"No young one, but I do," he replied, "Continue to do what you have been doing so far, and stick to them like glue."
"That shouldn't be too hard," she said.
"No, it should not," he chuckled. "Now, I believe that we have postponed this long enough."
As he said the words, he pulled a small box from his pocket and held it out to her.
"Happy Birthday Miranda," he said, giving her the box.
Miranda took the box, and held it in front of her. What could it be? She opened the lid, reached in, and pulled out a necklace. But it was like no other necklace she had ever seen. A leather string twisted itself around a sword shaped pendant. The sword itself was made of silver and gold, with a small red ruby embedded at the hilt.
"This necklace is a special necklace indeed Miranda," Father Christmas began. "I give one of these to every person on their 18th birthday, and not one of them is exactly like another."
Father Christmas took the necklace from her hands, and slowly put it on her, tying it in place.
"Not one of them is exactly like another?"
"Not one Miranda," he whispered. He gave her a fatherly kiss on her forehead and said once more;
"Happy Birthday," and then, in a flash, he disappeared.
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One week later, Peter held a dance (they didn't call them balls in Narnia) in honor of their guests. Naiads and dryads, satyrs and fauns, centaurs and talking animals, the Calormenes, and the royal majesties.
Peter laughed as he watched his youngest sibling dance in a wild circle with Mr. Tumnus. He saw Lord Rahashan looking over at Susan, and had to keep himself in check. And he watched as his brother danced with a satyr.
Peter smiled at them all. Everything was going well. Then out of the corner of his eye, he saw Miranda in the shadows, her hand on her sword. He almost ran to her and began the screaming that he had been longing to do for days. But, knowing that it would make nothing better between them, he didn't.
Three days ago, Peter had come to her, asking her opinion on one of the peace matters they were settling.
"I thought that I made it quite certain sire, that I was not going to have anything to do with this," she said.
"Miranda, we need peace with Calormene," he replied.
"No, Peter! The last thing we need is to have peace with them! The last thing we need is to have any dealings with…"
"Silence!" he shouted, "I will hear no more of this Miranda! No more of your incompetence of this situation, and no more of this disagreement about it! If you are not going to comply, you might just have to leave Narnia!
That was the last time they had spoken, and they had not tried to make up after that. Peter thought that Miranda was just being unreasonable, but every time he saw her, he saw pain. Then he thought maybe he was wrong. Then he would see a Calormen, and his opinion would be as before.
He danced with a naiad, but at the corner of his eye, watched Edmund approach Miranda. They stood there for a long while, with Edmund sometimes nodding his head. Peter, ever watching, noticed Miranda wiping her eyes, and watched Edmund's hand pat her shoulder in sympathy.
A few moments later, Miranda left Peter's line of vision, and Edmund approached him.
"Peter, could I have a few moments?" his brother asked.
"Of course," Peter replied, hiding his agitation well. But it didn't fool his brother.
"Just do it," Edmund said through clenched teeth. Peter bowed to the naiad and followed his brother.
They went to the garden just outside of the throne room, and went just far enough for privacy. It was then that Peter said;
"Alright, what were you two talking about?"
Edmund sighed and said;
"Nothing gets past you brother."
"You're right Ed. Nothing does. Now, what were you two talking about?"
"Peter," Edmund began, shifted his gaze, then looked his brother straight in the eye, "Do you know what you have done?"
"I have tried to make peace with Calormene," Peter quickly replied.
"Yes, but do you know the damage you have done to Miranda? Do you know the severity of what you have said?" Edmund asked, his voice strained.
Peter was silent.
"Exactly Peter," Edmund said, exasperated, "You do not know the damage of what you have done to a friend Peter. Not a Calormene, but a friend, a Narnian, a person who has fought by our sides and saved both of our lives. One who has done all she can to protect us. You have broken the friendship you had!"
"What?!"
"Peter, the words you said that day have stayed with her. They have eaten her alive. She thinks that you hate her, and that the friendship that was becoming strong has split. You have not spoken to her, in fact, you have avoided her. And frankly, it has torn her apart!"
Peter felt his eyes go wide, and his breathing become shallow. But still, before he went to her, he had to know something.
"Ed, why does she fear this alliance so much?"
"She tried to tell you Pete, but you wouldn't listen. She does not think it wise to have any ties to a people that do not share our love for Aslan. Especially a people that worship another."
Peter's head dropped as he finally understood.
"Where is she Edmund?"
"By the beach Peter."
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Miranda breathed in and out slowly, trying to catch her breath as she lay on the sandy floor of the beach.
She had come to cry. As ashamed as she was to think it, that was the reason she had come. The emotion that she had held in for three days had finally taken a hold of her, and she could not keep it in anymore.
As her breathing calmed down, she felt the flute on her belt. Taking it out, she looked at the way the moonlight reflected off of the mahogany wood. She didn't feel like playing, but brought the flute up to her lips, and played a song. The waves seemed to become silent, and mermaid heads popped up to the surface, listening to a song that came from the heart.
When the final notes of the song faded away, Miranda heard a voice say;
"That was quite lovely Miranda."
Miranda jumped up, her hand going to her sword.
"Easy Miranda, it's just me," a familiar voice said, and Miranda recognized King Peter.
"Your highness, I did not realize that you were there," Miranda whispered. "I'm sorry, if you wish…"
"I'm sorry Miranda."
Miranda's eyes went wide.
"Sire?"
"Miranda," Peter began, taking two steps closer to her, "I am sorry. I was wrong, and I had no right to talk to you the way I did. I had no right to hurt you the way I did, and make the alliance of a Calormene more important than the feelings of my friend," he stopped, and Miranda realized that there were tears in his eyes.
"Peter, it's okay."
"No it's not Miranda. I hurt you. I…"
"Peter, you were looking for a way for peace. You were looking for a better life for Narnia."
"Yes, but in the wrong place. Edmund told me of where you stand. And you are right."
"Not all of the time sire. You were the one that made peace with Archenland, not I. In fact, I was not sure of that peace either. But you proved me wrong that time. I made a mistake, and you were right."
"Not this time," he said, head dropping.
"Peter, we all make mistakes. Remember the first battle we did together, the one with the White Witch?"
"How can I forget?"
"Remember what happened afterwards?"
"Yes," Peter said, "You felt so guilty about not keeping a better eye out on Edmund, that it took him and I both to convince you that it was just a mistake."
"Exactly Peter. That day, I realized that I am human, and that I will always make mistakes. And I also realized that other humans will make mistakes too." She smiled, and said; "Even kings."
Peter smiled back.
"All is forgiven my king, my friend."
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Lord Rahashan sat in one of the private rooms they had been given with the ten other men that he most trusted.
"We will need to do it soon," the man with the scar said.
"I know, but we can't go for all four. They all can fight, I have watched them. And their warrior watches well. I have not seen hardly any of them without seeing her."
"Then get the high king. He is the most valuable, and the most trusting yet."
"Yes, but then what," Lord Rahashan said, frustrated.
"Hold him for ransom."
"Then what? We don't need more money!" Rahashan exclaimed.
"Not for money. For the kingdom. For a legal hand in marriage. Threaten them with the death of their king and brother, and they will comply."
Rahashan smiled, and looked over to the scarred man.
"I like how you think."
The Calormenes within the room cheered. Then, Lord Rahashan took a goblet of wine.
"A toast, to Lord Bacatan, the right hand man of Narnia." Ten goblets were raised, drank, and set down.
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The next morning, Peter sat in the council room with Lord Rahashan. There was something he needed to say, and he believed that the wisest thing to do was to bring it before their leader.
"Lord Rahashan, a certain issue has come into my mind which we must settle before any other talks of peace are made."
"And what sort of issue would that be King Peter?" Rahashan asked coolly.
Peter took in a deep breath, and began.
"Sir, our two nations cannot have peace if our beliefs differ so greatly," Peter said. "You worship Tash, but our loyalty is with Aslan. I know for a fact sir, that none of my family, or I, or perhaps anyone else in Narnia will turn to Tash, so I am asking you to give your love to Aslan."
Lord Rahashan's eyes widened.
"King Peter, you ask me to go against everything that I have ever believed in. To go against Tash is to go against Calormene."
"I know Lord Rahashan, but I am not asking you to accept it yet. Take some time, talk to your men, and maybe if you meet Aslan, your mind will change."
Two Hours Later
"Miranda, what do you think?" Peter asked her in the council room.
"I'm thinking that you have taken the right step, but that I am not sure how the Calormenes will take it."
Peter sighed, closed his eyes, and ran his hand through his blonde hair.
"I have come this far. I won't stop now, not after what I said."
Miranda was silent for a moment, then said;
"I believe that I owe you an apology Peter."
Peter looked at her, puzzled.
"I should have told you sooner. I should not have waited so long, no matter what you would say."
"Miranda, it's not …" but Miranda cut him off.
"I know. But I still should have told you sooner."
Peter smiled, knowing that Miranda would not let this issue slide off.
"Alright Miranda. Alright. Apology accepted."
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Bacatan stood by Rahashan, and leaned in close enough to whisper;
"Make it tomorrow."
Rahashan smiled. The high king's birthday.
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"Miranda, Miranda wake up."
Miranda sat up straight in bed, her dagger at hand.
"It is I Miranda. It is alright," a familiar voice said.
"Orieus!" Miranda exclaimed, "Don't scare me like that."
"I'm sorry Miranda, but there is a matter that needs your attention."
"Orieus, it's four in the morning! Aahh, never mind, talk to me," Miranda ordered, wide awake now.
"A rogue giant from the north has been spotted in the Western Wood. If it was any other situation, I would not have asked you to come."
As Orieus was speaking, Miranda had shot out of bed, and was grabbing clothes out of her trunk.
"Get as many of the strongest soldiers you have. Meet me outside in 15 minutes."
"15 minutes Miranda? Do you really need that long?" Orieus questioned. And Miranda knew why. Normally, she only needed 5 minutes.
"I have one extra thing that I need to do General."
Orieus nodded and left the room, and Miranda threw on her clothes. She took her weapons from the wall they were hanging on, and put them on. Then, taking a small box from the table by her bedside, she left the room.
She went through 3 passageways full of tapestries and torches, and entered a room with double doors. She smiled at the figure in the bed. The high king truly only looked peaceful when he was asleep. Going to the table beside his bed, she left a box and a note.
"Happy Birthday my king, my friend."
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Peter woke up three hours later, and the first thought was;
"By golly, it's my birthday!"
He smiled as he threw the sheets off, and was just about to jump out, when he saw the note and box beside his bed. Curious, he opened up the note, and read;
Dear Peter,
I'm sorry that I won't be there today for your birthday. Fights that could not be fought without me came up this morning. I just wanted to be the first one to say "Happy Birthday." Here is your present also. I shall see you later on today. Until that time, have a great day.
Miranda
Peter mentally kicked himself. That nagging feeling was because she had forgotten Miranda's birthday! How could he have forgotten it? He never forgot his family or closest friend's birthdays! And it was his and Miranda's tradition to be the first ones to say it.
His head shot up. He would find some way to make it up to her. Then he looked at the box in his hand. Deciding not to wait, he opened the box, and pulled out a silver band. He put it on his wrist, and admired the way it caught the light. As he looked closer, he saw that it was engraved with the word "Magnificent."
Smiling, he got up from his bed, and threw on some fresh silk clothing that was not too elaborate. He raced down the hall, and greeted his family in the dining hall. His favorite breakfast was on the table, and the hall was set in colors of red and gold.
After they had breakfast, his siblings bombarded him with their presents. From Edmund came a dagger, long and sharp. From Susan came a cape of deep purple, for special occasions. And from Lucy came a vial of her cordial, telling him that Father Christmas had given her a little extra.
Peter left the dining hall with his siblings, and for the rest of the morning they played Narnian games with the fauns, satyrs, and talking animals. Later on that day would come more celebrating, but Peter enjoyed the calmness of just being with his family.
After the noon meal, Peter started heading toward his room, to change into something a little more formal. But he was suddenly approached by Lord Rahashan.
"Sire, good day and best wishes for your birthday!" Lord Rahashan exclaimed.
"I thank you Lord Rahashan. Your best wishes are greatly accepted," Peter replied.
The two were silent for a moment, then Lord Rahashan said;
"Your majesty, if I might have a quiet word with you."
Peter was wary, but seeing no weapon on Lord Rahashan, went with him.
"I hope that you are not offended by my reaction's yesterday," he began.
"Of course not lord of Calormene."
"But I do wish you to know that it did not take me long to make a decision."
"Really?" Peter said, his heart slightly lifting.
"Yes high king, I have decided," he said, with a strange glint in his eye.
Peter suddenly felt very wary. He stopped, and looked around him. Something didn't feel right.
Suddenly, Calormenes sprung up from all around him. Peter quickly drew his sword, and just barely managed to stab at an armed Calormene.
He tried to shout for help, but three Calormen came on top of him, muffling his shout. They forced his hand to let go of his sword, but as he dropped one weapon, he drew out another. The dagger from Edmund killed two more, but their hands never left his mouth. They were finally able to force the dagger out of his hand as well. Then, Lord Rahashan stepped forward, and said;
"I decided to take over Narnia."
Peter, burning with anger, lunged at him. Suddenly, a Calormene hit him behind the neck, and everything went black.
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"Where could he be?"
Edmund searched all around the castle, searching for his brother.
"Peter, if this is some kind of joke, it's not funny!"
But Peter never came out. Edmund went down the hall towards Peter's room, hoping to find him there. He looked to his right for a second, and then stopped. Turning around, he looked down the corridor he had just past, and saw a body. His heart in his throat, Edmund ran toward the end of the hall, and gasped.
Three Calormene lay dead on the ground. Looking around, he saw the sheath of Peter's sword lying on the ground. He took another quick look around, and saw a piece of paper put on one of the stone pillars, held by a dagger. As Edmund got closer, he realized it was the dagger that he had given Peter. Looking at the paper, he read;
If you wish to see your brother alive, then you will do this. You will give me the hand in marriage of Queen Susan the Gentle, and the rule over all of Narnia. If your answer should be no, then your brother dies. Send the answer by way of an eagle. You have until midnight.
Lord Rahashan
Edmund's eyes widened, and he raced through the castle until he got to a beech tree in one of the gardens.
"Get word to the Warrior! Get word to her that the high king has been captured!"
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Miranda stood by the side of the dead giant at dusk, a strange expression on her face. She gazed to the northern sky, and saw the clouds become dark.
"Oh, no," she whispered.
Running toward her horse Onyx, she yelled to Orieus;
"You are in charge! Make sure that the wounded are tended to!"
"But Miranda," Orieus shouted, racing towards her as she lifted herself onto Onyx, "Where are you going?"
"Somewhere where there is some trouble Orieus. Trouble that I hope is not the one I fear." Turning Onyx around, she raced through trees and rivers, heading towards the Dancing Lawn. No tree ever told her what had happened.
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Peter could slowly feel himself going back into consciousness. He felt his hands tied behind his back to a tree, and he quickly realized that he was bound and gagged.
What a fool he had been! Why of all things did he not expect this? He was the one who normally saw through things like this. But there act had been too good. They had seemed so pure. But their hearts were like rotten apples.
Peter listened as Rahashan spoke with another Calormene.
"Do you think that she will give me her hand?"
If Peter could gasp, he would have. The she could only mean Susan.
"Not willingly Rahashan, but faced with the choice of that or the death of her brother, it will be more than likely that she will give her hand."
Peter pulled as hard as he could at his bonds, but the ropes were strong, and would not budge. Peter stopped pulling when he realized he was drawing blood. His head dropped in defeat. What could he do?
The answer was simple. He could do nothing.
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Miranda watched the band of Calormenes closely, then surveyed the spot that Peter was tied, right at the edge of where they had camped, his hands toward her. Smiling, she thought that it seemed almost too easy.
"Onyx, I need you to be ready for something…"
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Peter pulled on his bonds again. Nothing budged.
He started when he felt a pair of hands on his. A masked voice said;
"Do not be afraid my king. Help has come."
Peter relaxed as the bonds were cut, and he was guided slowly around the tree to a spot where they could not be seen.
Suddenly, a voice shouted;
"He's gone!"
"Okay, I wasn't expecting it to be that quick," Peter heard his rescuer say, recognizing the voice. It was Miranda!
But before he could do anything, he felt a horse in front of him, and a quick shove from behind him. He then heard her shout;
"Get him to Cair Paravel as fast as your legs can carry you," and Peter almost fell over as the horse beneath him bolted. Pulling off his gag, blindfold, and the remainder of the rope, Peter turned around to see nothing but trees. No Miranda, no Calormenes.
Peter pulled on Onyx's reins, and said;
"We have to go back! She will not survive with all of them on her!"
"Sir, she just gave me a direct order to get you back to safety," Onyx replied, pulling forward on the reins.
"Onyx, they won't spare her the way they spared me! Her life has no value to them!" Peter could feel a shudder go down Onyx's spine.
"Your majesty, if I might point out that we are only two against possibly twenty, and you have no sword."
"That can easily be fixed," Peter replied, whispering to a tree.
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Miranda took out her bow and three arrows. Aiming carefully, she shot, and three of the Calormenes fell dead. Drawing her sword and dagger, she went head to head with another Calormene. Within moments, he too was dead.
Miranda felt a sudden pain in her shoulder, and turned her gaze to see an arrow puncturing her skin. Pulling it out, she stood up to continue fighting, but a rope was suddenly thrown on her neck, and she was pulled down. Four other ropes were put on her arms and legs to keep her from moving.
"It is that warrior!" she heard Lord Rahashan scream angrily.
"Yes, it would seem so," the scarred Calormene said, his voice harsh and cold. A voice Miranda recognized.
"Why do I know you?" she whispered hoarsely.
"Perhaps it is because it was you that gave me this," he said, pointing to his scar.
Miranda vaguely remembered a battle, two years ago, against a man called;
"Bacatan," she whispered.
"Yes," he jeered, "You spared my life, but it humiliated me.
Bacatan looked over to Rahashan and said;
"We do not have much time. We must leave this land as soon as we can. But I do not suggest that we leave this one alive," Bacatan said, gesturing towards Miranda.
"I agree," Rahashan replied, the anger evident in his voice. "But I do not wish her to just be killed. Make her suffer!"
"With pleasure."
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Peter listened to the trees as they shook and whispered.
"Do you think any will answer the call," Onyx asked.
Just as the words exited his mouth, five centaurs, headed by Orieus, burst through the forest.
"We have come at your bidding my king. Where is the warrior?"
"At the Dancing Lawn. Now, let's go."
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"AAAHH," Miranda screamed as the whip lashed her back again. Her back was torn up from the endless lashings, and she could feel the blood trickle down. Her hands were tied with a long rope that one Calormene pulled, while another pulled her tied legs.
"Scream Louder!" Bacatan shouted.
The whip cracked again, and another mark was made on her back.
"AAH," she screamed.
"I want to see her die," Rahashan shouted.
"Sire," a Calormene shouted, "I hear something!" But no one listened.
Miranda braced herself for another lash, but the whip stopped in midair. Her eyes glanced up, and she saw a figure she knew all too well.
"Orieus," she whispered hoarsely. The centaur had taken a hold of the whip, and was quickly wrapping it around his arm, pulling it away from Bacatan.
"Release the Warrior!" a familiar voice ordered. Miranda turned her head to see King Peter on Onyx, his eyes cold as steel.
"Why should we?" Rahashan questioned. "Her life is in our hands."
"Harm her anymore, and your lives will not be spared," Peter replied.
Miranda suddenly felt her head being pulled back, and a knife pushed close to her throat.
"Come any closer, and your warrior dies!" Bacatan's voice shouted.
Suddenly, a flash of red flew past 4 Calormene, and jumped onto Bacatan's face, pushing him back. He released his hold on Miranda and uttered a shout. Turning her body, she saw another familiar face.
"Hunta, glad you could join us," Onyx neighed.
"I wouldn't miss this for the world," Hunta replied.
"Now, release the warrior and leave Narnia forever," Peter ordered, his voice becoming colder by the second.
"Not for the world high king!" Rahashan screamed, and the Calormene attacked, waving large scimitars.
The Narnians pulled out their own weapons, and he battle began.
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Peter retrieved his sword that the Calormenes had taken, and began slamming it down on them, and Onyx pushed and kicked his way through the battle, trying to get close to Miranda.
"Come on, come on," Peter urged.
Onyx finally managed to get through, stopping a few feet away from Miranda. But just as Peter dismounted Onyx, Bacatan got in his way.
"You will not help her. Not if I have anything to say about it," he growled.
"And if I have anything to say, it is that you will do her no more harm."
Peter raised his sword high, and Bacatan blocked. And a duel began. Bacatan swung for his middle, but Peter easily blocked it. Then he swung high, but Peter ducked. Bacatan then tried lower, aiming for his legs, but Peter jumped just in time.
"No more games," he growled, and he began a series of wild attacks that Peter could just barely keep at bay.
"Let me help you," a sarcastic voice said, and Bacatan suddenly fell over. Peter looked to see that Miranda had managed to free her legs, and kick Bacatan's feet from under him. He quickly took his sword and brought it to Bacatan's throat.
"No more will you harm Narnia or its people. You will wait in the cells at the fort near the Ford at Beruna, and await the sentence that Aslan will give to you. Now get up."
Bacatan slowly stood up, and a centaur took his hands and tied them.
"Sire," Orieus called out. Peter turned to address him. "We killed 10 of the Calormene, and 8 are now prisoner."
"Very good Orieus. Now, you centaurs, get these men to the fort near the Ford at Beruna. Aslan alone will decide their fate."
"Yes your highness," the five centaurs said in chorus.
As the centaurs left with the prisoners, Peter, Orieus, Hunta, and Onyx surrounded a very still figure.
"Is she still alive," Onyx whispered.
Hunta came up close, and nuzzled his nose close to Miranda.
"She still breathes. She has become unconscious from the pain," Hunta replied.
"Moving her would not be wise," Orieus said. "She is bleeding badly."
"Wait a moment!" Peter exclaimed, then pulled a small vial from his belt. He opened the top, and poured a single drop on Miranda's torn back. Before their eyes, the bleeding stopped, and the skin began to heal, revealing places where there would be scars.
Miranda's breathing became faster, and her eyes shot open in fear. She bolted up, but Peter's hands stopped her from moving too fast.
"Easy Miranda. You are still healing."
Miranda's eyes shot at him, then they looked at Onyx.
"I thought that I said to get him to Cair Paravel!"
"Yes you did, but his orders were to attack the Calormene and rescue you," Onyx calmly replied.
Miranda looked at the close circle around her. A king, a centaur general, a talking horse, and a talking fox captain.
"Thank you," she said. "Thank you all. You saved my life."
"No problem warrior. You would have done nothing less for any of us," Peter replied. "Now, let's get back to Cair Paravel. We have some celebrating to do."
"Yes we do," said Orieus. "A rescue, and two birthdays."
"Two?" Miranda questioned.
"Oh, yes," Peter laughed. "We forgot yours, so now we just have to celebrate both of ours on the same day. I hope you don't mind."
Miranda threw back her head and laughed.
"After tonight, that sounds perfect."
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Okay, this is the end of chapter four. So sorry about the length. I was not counting it to be that long. In future fanfics, no chapters will be this long! NONE!!!