Author's Note: I'm sorry this took so long, please forgive me (*Lucy-pout*)

Chapter 3: Take to the Woods

It was a great risk that the monarchs were taking, to be executing a plan that was hurriedly structured. After studying the map of Narnia for hours of the day, it was agreed that Edmund would be riding ahead to Owlwood, where the Beavers had mentioned their last hiding place with the princess. Edmund, though, would not make himself known once he arrived at the area, thus he would wait until he caught sight of the princess and her escort, Mr. Beaver. Susan (it was decided that Princess Eleanor would be most comfortable around another woman instead of a man) will meet the princess and take her on horseback to Cair Paravel, with Edmund following from behind unnoticed, and ensuring their security. Upon the last two miles to Cair Paravel, Edmund will ride off directly to the stables by use of the old trail. After that will be played by ear, for Peter and Lucy will have remained in the castle (by doing so will reduce the suspicion of the monarchs leaving the castle for unknown reasons,) waiting to welcome the princess.

Dusk couldn't come fast enough for Edmund. He couldn't make out the different feelings that ran through and within him. Some ideas presented themselves to the king: excitement, anxiety, and agitation. All together, such emotions caused him much discomfort. If I were any more uncomfortable than at the moment, he had thought to himself, I'd probably be jumping off of the balcony of the Throne Room and onto the rocks lining the Great Eastern Ocean.

Finally, the moon had rose midway into the dark sky, signaling the first phase of the plan. Edmund had already saddled Philip, without Durmin's knowledge, for the mission was to remain secret, and both headed off quietly north of Narnia to Owlwood by the way of the Old Trail to escape notice.

In a bit over a quarter of an hour and at full gallop, Philip had taken his way on the trails of Owlwood and halted near the heart of the growth of the forest at Edmund's instruction.

"Where would you like to remain?" Philip snorted in an attempt to block off the early evening cold that wove its way through the land. Edmund looked up. The trees had blotted out most of the moonlight, as well as that of the stars, leaving him hardly any sufficient lighting good enough to see his map. The young king remained calm, however, thankful that he had reviewed the mission over and over again in his head that afternoon. With confidence, and after studying the trees around him, Edmund pointed to a tall Birch tree and said, "Passed the Birch, Peter had said. We should ride at an easy gait for another ten minutes and wait until the princess and Mr. Beaver appear on this trail."

Philip nodded and trotted off. After the said time of riding, Edmund turned Philip to face the trail and found it quite difficult to see passed the large growth of trunks. Edmund grumbled, "Aslan help me that I'll be able to see the princess passed this dense growth."

Philip nudged the king gently on his foot, "He will."

While all this has been taking place, walking on the path of Owlwood were two beings: one, a human, tall, cloaked in black and accompanied by a talking beast of Narnia.

"Beaver, wait."

Mr. Beaver turned and said gently, "Eleanor, we must keep moving. It's not safe here, and the queen will be there to meet you."

Eleanor knelt on the ground, her face hidden by the hood of her cloak, though she managed to take a golden chain of a necklace before her. Late in the morning, when the Beavers had mentioned what they had planned for her to ensure her safety, Eleanor was furious, but it soon dawned on her that arguing would be out of the question, for the monarchs had already promised they were going to find a way to take her safely from the woods to the castle. Still, the young princess could not make out why she had agreed so easily. And though she may not know it, the explanation was simple: she was tired of fighting, fighting for her life, and her safety, fighting her surroundings, and fighting her self. Over the years, all these ordeals had left her spirit exhausted.

"Please," Eleanor pleaded, "This is not the first time you are attempting to save my life. And though I do not remember how this necklace came to be in my possession, I remember that it is Narnian, and I wish to give it to you-"

"No, Eleanor," Mr. Beaver held his paws on Eleanor's folded hands and held them in place, "That necklace, I am sure, is in your possession for a reason," said he, "Now don't argue with me," he added as he saw Eleanor's lips part to speak, "Please, Eleanor. Treasure it, and let us be on our way."

The princess stood again and stared up at the looming trees above her. She swallowed as remnants of a terrible dream haunted her thoughts. Trees, a whole forest of them seemingly just growing taller and taller and casting away the light, enveloping her and swallowing her into a dark oblivion, drowning her horrified screams and cries to the sky. Eleanor, before she could remember any more, ran after Mr. Beaver and was unsure of how she felt about what was yet to come.

Edmund toyed with his sword occasionally unsheathing it and sheathing it again. He wasn't bored. He just knew he had to have his hands do something before he lost his nerve waiting for the mission to truly take action. Philip had suggested, and had every reason to, that perhaps it was good that Edmund kept his hands busy, but why did he have to keep busy with a blade? Edmund had chuckled lightly at the remark but fell silent almost instantly, and found himself toying with the blade anyway. The skin at the back of Edmund's neck prickled, and the sensation continued its way down his spine. He shivered.

"Edmund?" Philip asked concerned. Edmund cleared his throat, "I'm all right, Philip. I just feel…funny." What a poor word, Edmund thought to himself.

"You are nervous?"

"No. I get the feeling we're being watched, and I don't know why."

Philip whinnied softly, "Fear not, Edmund," said he, "We have done well so far, and Durmin and the other fauns noticed nothing."

Edmund smiled and reached out to scratch the stallion behind his ears when a horrible thought crossed his mind, True. Durmin and the other stablehands had been unaware of our work, but what of another being we are unaware of ourselves?

Edmund angrily pushed the thought away and resumed unsheathing and sheathing his sword when Philip suddenly pricked his ears up and held his head high, "They're here," said the stallion, and Edmund felt Philip's hindquarters tense beneath him. The king nodded determinedly, "Stay quiet for the rest of the mission," he reminded and saw a dark cloaked figure run quietly down the trail. Sword at the ready Edmund rode behind, still hidden within the forest.

Susan breathed in deeply. She was just a mile behind the border of the woods, waiting for the princess. What would she be like, I wonder, thought the queen then she recalled the abstract pattern of the Borovian monarchy in Edmund's assigned book from Ortemius. She recalled seeing the young princess, so young and bright-faced. Would she be the same now? Perhaps not, having lived long years in fear, and maybe even anger towards the woods and Narnia itself. Thistleberry, the bay mare Susan rode, shifted her stance and nudged on Susan's foot, "I hear them coming, Susan."

Susan looked down the trail and at first saw nothing. Then, a few moments later Mr. Beaver scurried forward a few feet away and a cloaked figure followed quietly behind. Susan did her best to look through the trees surrounding the trail. She smiled. Edmund was so well concealed by the forest to the point that she failed to neither see nor hear him. Whilst waiting for the princess and Mr. Beaver to approach her, Susan leaned forward and whispered in the mare's ear, "Can you sense Edmund and Philip?"

Thistleberry pricked her ears one way and another and nodded her head, "Faintly. I smell only Birch and some Pine. I supposed they are well hidden behind the trees, but yes, I can sense them."

Susan nodded, "Thank the Lion."

At that moment Mr. Beaver had arrived at Thistleberry's forelegs and the cloaked figure stopped short behind him and curtsied lightly, "Your Majesty," came a soft voice. Susan nodded and said to the beaver, "Will you be on your way?"

"Aye. I'll see you in the morn. I'd best return to the dam where Mrs. Beaver will be waiting," Mr. Beaver took Eleanor's hand and the young woman lowered her hood. Susan smiled kindly as she saw the princess's face for the first time. Her hair, quite similar to the abstract pattern, was now a deep glossy auburn. And the gentle waves that fell around her shoulders were still there, just as Susan remembered from the pattern. Eleanor's eyes were iciest grey the queen had ever seen (though Susan dwelt no more in them, for Eleanor's eyes seemed to hold many an emotion, and perhaps even concealing a thousand more) and her face was pale from the cold. Susan held out her hand to her, "Behind me," she said, "I could not afford to take another horse, for we needed to reduce the suspicion of you coming here."

Eleanor nodded and allowed herself to be helped up on the saddle behind the queen. She looked behind her and noticed that Beaver had already gone silently away. Susan looked behind her, "Are you ready, princess?"

"Yes, Your Majesty," Eleanor replied. Thistleberry shook her mane in anticipation and cantered quickly towards Cair.

Edmund coughed hoarsely as the cold air rushed into his throat while following stealthily behind Susan. Philip, considering he was not on the smooth trail, cantered sure-footedly passed the trees with ease. Edmund saw Eleanor a few feet away only a few minutes ago. But he had only seen just a glimpse of her face before Susan had heaved her onto the saddle. Still, the king had no doubt it was the same girl from the pattern, for her hair was the deepest of auburn. Philip maintained a steady pace and observed a fair distance to hide within the trees. By now making out the sight of Susan and her steed, Thistleberry, as Edmund had heard the name, had become a little more difficult because both horses were now making haste through the forest to the borders. Edmund trusted Philip to watch his way most of the time so as to keep an eye on those he was meant to guard. The king and his stallion had galloped for about another mile when Susan disappeared beyond the borders. Edmund followed and was soon in full view on the open grassy plain. He reined Philip and aligned with Susan, still keeping at least twenty feet worth of distance. Edmund, forgetting the cold night air, spoke, "Philip, you know the instructions within the two mile sight of Cair, yes?"

"Well met, Edmund," Philip snorted, assuring the king. Edmund, if it were not for the sword in his hand, would have patted Philip pleasingly on his neck. Silently, they rode on.

"Queen Susan!" Eleanor stated in alarm, giving herself a mental kicking for sounding like a young deer afraid of the calm evening shadows. Susan jerked her head behind her, "What is it?"

"We are being pursued, Your Majesty."

Susan entrusted the way to Thistleberry and looked behind Eleanor to find Philip's brilliant chestnut silhouette under the moonlight, galloping steadily from twenty feet away. A snort and nod from Thistleberry validated her thoughts.

"It's no matter, Princess," Susan said, "That is only my brother, King Edmund. He is following us to secure our ride to Cair Paravel."

Eleanor couldn't help it as she felt a relieving smile play on her lips. Beaver was right, she thought, The monarchs had planned well.

Edmund saw the princess glance back at him during the ride, and soon Susan had taken a look too. Philip laughed under his breath as he continued galloping, "She has sighted us. Your sister must have assured the princess that we are their guards."

Edmund smiled unable to say anything (he had regretted speaking earlier, for his throat could never have felt more sore.) Soon enough Cair Paravel's large marble and stone structures appeared ahead and Edmund quickly estimated the two miles before him. Reining Philip to the right and to the direction of the Old Trail, he held up his sword to signal Susan.

Susan looked to the right and waved her hand once in reply. She was amazed at Edmund's skill on the saddle that even amidst a full gallop on the horse, he had managed to sheath his sword safely into its belt. I suppose it comes with being a man, she thought, and having to handle a blade instead of a bow and arrows.

"Where is he headed, Your Majesty?" Eleanor asked questioningly.

"His job finishes here," Susan explained, "If we are to enter Cair Paravel's main gates we will do it on one horse just as I had left."

Eleanor nodded and thought that perhaps there was another entrance behind the great castle. She watched as the chestnut horse and its rider disappeared farther east of them, once more amazed at how well the plan had been built.

As Philip trotted down the Old Trail, Edmund found his breathing to have become heavy and difficult. Philip nickered a greeting and Edmund wondered why until he saw Peter walk from around the corner of the castle, "Ed?"

Edmund swallowed and nodded, "What are you doing here?"

Peter approached Philip, who by now had halted, and held the reins near the bit, "Meeting you. You look tired."

Edmund laughed and found that it was a painful deed, for his throat had become so much sorer than it had been last. Peter wore a worried expression on his face, "You need warm mead. I had some prepared for you and Susan if she wants any inside," the king smiled as he patted the stallion on his neck, "I hope you'll be happy with your oats. That's all I managed to do without making myself known to the stablehands."

Philip whinnied and said, "Thank you. Your gesture is appreciated."

Edmund grinned gratefully and dismounted. His legs had grown numb from his long ride in the cold. Peter laid a hand on his brother's back, "Susan and the princess?"

"Safe, thank the Lion," Edmund decided not to mention that he had felt as if he were being watched while waiting for the arrival of the princess in Owlwood. The last thing he and his siblings needed was his little brain still worried for the remaining survivors of the Witch's spies that still prowled the deepest areas of the Narnian forests. Edmund and Peter conversed about the ordeal as they walked Philip back to the stables.

Susan trotted through the main gates and was pleased to find that the guards had left to change shifts, "We arrived at just the right moment," the queen said to both of her companions. Thistleberry nickered, "So we have, or we will be facing the difficulty of explaining the presence of Princess Eleanor to the guard."

Eleanor shifted uneasily in the saddle as she heard Thistleberry for the first time. She knew that the Narnian beasts could speak, but she had never been so close to a Narnian before. She had spent most her time with the dryads and other trees of the Western Woods. Susan trotted around a trail and down the path to the stables when Thistleberry stopped short. Susan and Eleanor jerked in the saddle.

"What is it, Your Majesty?" Eleanor asked tensely. Susan awaited the mare's reply.

"I can hear something," was what the horse said. Susan grumbled, "The stablehands should be off by now."

Dismounting, Susan handed the reins to Eleanor, "Wait here until I come back, all right?"

"Yes, Queen Susan," Eleanor replied and wondered if she saw Susan smile at her politeness before she walked away. Eleanor set the matter aside as Thistleberry nudged her foot gently, "Little one, how fair thee?"

Eleanor hummed peacefully at the mare's kind tone, "Well met, Thistleberry."

Edmund was just finishing his story of his experience in the woods as Peter helped him unsaddle Philip and rub the horse down when they heard the soft crunch of footsteps approaching them. The brothers spun around. An excuse hastily formed in Edmund's head if he had to explain anything to a stablehand when he and Peter saw Susan walk from around the corner of the long line of stalls, "Oh," she whispered carefully so as not to awake the other horses, "I thought probably you'd be Durmin."

Edmund was unable to contain himself, "Did you leave the princess outside? Alone?"

Susan huffed, "She's not alone, Ed. I trust Thistleberry," Susan turned to leave after adding, "I'll call them in."

As Susan walked to the horse and rider she smiled, "It's nothing. My brothers are just giving Philip a rub down," Susan walked alongside Thistleberry. Eleanor took in a breath. She was going to meet two out of the remaining three monarchs she had not yet met.

Peter set down the large bucket of oats in one corner of Philip's stall, "There," he said, "Thank you for aiding us, Philip," Peter gave the stallion a pat on the neck as he walked out of the stall, latching it as he did. Edmund let out a sigh and was about to open his mouth when he heard motion behind him. Turning he saw Thistleberry's dark silhouette walk towards him and stop in front of her stall as Susan waited for the rider to dismount. Saying a few words to the princess, Susan began unsaddling her horse and the princess walked timidly towards the two kings. Peter bowed modestly, as did Edmund, and both began the exchange of greetings. Peter introduced himself first, "High King Peter, Your Highness. This is my brother."

Eleanor watched patiently as a young man, who appeared to be around her age, nodded his head and said, "King Edmund."

Eleanor, being very observant, noticed that King Edmund had more likeness with Queen Susan than High King Peter. Both had dark hair, though perhaps the queen's was much lighter, and the paleness of their skin was almost identical. That's where their relations ended, for King Edmund seemed to carry an air of calm authority so similar to the High King's, only he projected it rather differently. That would be one way a person could tell the two kings were siblings.

Eleanor nodded, "I am only Eleanor, Your Majesties."

Edmund took note of the tone in the princess's voice. She had said her introduction rather bluntly in his opinion. But there were other things that Edmund had taken note of, even before Eleanor had begun speaking. He noticed that she walked with the silence and grace similar to a dryad's. Mr. Beaver's words returned to Edmund's thoughts, 'She studied the way of the dryads and was therefore the stealth in the woods.' Eleanor's hair was much darker from what he remembered in the pattern. It was only her soft waves that seemed exactly the same. Edmund's eyes fell on the princess's grey ones. He caught them and almost at once had to avert his gaze. You would never imagine the emotions that pierced through the young king after he beheld Eleanor's icy stare. What he saw and felt was so great that it had plunged him into surefire confusion. Anger, hatred, melancholy, hopelessness coursed into Edmund's mind, and he found it rather uncomfortable. Yet, if those emotions were truly what he saw in those sliver eyes, then Edmund could not help but feel a sense of protection for the lady.

Susan's voice brought Edmund out of his trance, "So you've met my brothers," she smiled kindly at Eleanor and laid a gentle hand on Edmund's shoulder, "Our guard -- a job well done, Ed."

Edmund smiled modestly, "Thanks."

"And the one responsible for most of the plan's structures – many thanks," Susan looked at her older brother, and Peter smiled, "Well met, Su."

"Now," Susan said and turned her attention to Eleanor, "You needn't call us 'Lords and Ladies' or they, my brothers 'Sires.' Nor will you have to call any of us your kings or queens or majesties," Susan added with a grin, "We simply cannot get used to it."

Whatever that meant. Most people of importance would have found the queen's speech unusual, but Eleanor, being uneducated of common royal courtesies only smiled politely and said, "Then what shall it be?"

"Our names," Susan said, grateful that the princess made no objection, "I am Susan, and here are Peter and Edmund."

The brothers smiled kindly – though Edmund, more nervously, and bowed.

"And what shall we call you, Princess?" Peter asked kindly. Eleanor cringed under the address and nearly made a rude remark when instead, upon careful examination of her words, said, "Peter, I am princess-of-none. Eleanor will do."

Edmund was struck by the words, To be stripped off of one's kingdom, people and family, he thought as he shivered lightly, Would have taken this much out of me as well.

Peter nodded, his smile unwavering as an attempt to keep the air loose and friendly, "Eleanor it is. Shall we make for the castle? Lucy, our younger sister, will be worried."

Eleanor, even though she knew not of the regular customs of royalty, knew this much: how did it come that four kings and queens ruled an entire empire all at once? There was a prophecy that the dryads and beavers had conveyed to her years ago. It was about two sons of Adam, and two other daughters of Eve will come to Narnia and restore peace to put an end to the long winter. Eleanor was not sure if it was wise to hope on such a ridiculous belief but seeing now as the prophecy came true changed her mindset. Still, all four monarchs at once? She did not press the matter, however, and decided to follow the three siblings to Cair.

Faun guards had opened the main doors of Cair Paravel for the monarchs and their evening guest. If ever the guards had been surprised to see Eleanor so suddenly, they did an excellent job concealing their thoughts and instead greeted everyone a hearty good evening. As Eleanor stepped into the castle with the three royals she looked around the main hall, a vast room situated at the first floor, which served as the main entrance hall for all guests. It would have taken her breath away if she had seen this when she was still a young child, but by now Eleanor had somehow lost the bit in her that actually enjoyed things. She looked around slowly and her eyes took in the beautiful scarlet and gold tapestries by the tall glass windows framed by deep mahogany, the ascending carpeted staircases that led to other floors of the castle, and great marble pillars that held the entire magnificent structure upright. Everything was so elegant in an amusingly simple way. Flowers in tall porcelain vases stood in almost every corner of the main hall, permeating the air with their sweet fragrance. Eleanor felt terrible. She couldn't seem to bring herself to enjoy such beauty. Was it because she knew, that somehow, she had once a castle of her own just as beautiful as this, and maybe even more and she had shared it with a family of hers that used to exist? Eleanor swallowed hard to fight the tears that threatened to stream down her pale cheeks. How had she forgotten so much of her past? How had her mind grown to become so twisted and confused, too able to fight back the dark memories enough to forget them?

None seem to notice her discomfort. At least she hoped.

Edmund walked silently while Susan and Peter conversed among themselves about the mission. He longed to clear his aching throat but was too afraid that he'd make too much noise and it would hurt like everything. Then Edmund noticed that the air between he and the princess was terribly choked, for while Peter and Susan were left to talk among themselves, he and Eleanor held back and walked side by side a few feet away; to make matters worse, Edmund was never really a good conversationalist. He marveled at how easily his elder siblings could do it. The young king stole a glance at the princess and watched her as she took in her surroundings. What he saw certainly was not what he expected. Eleanor looked as if she wanted to run away. The color of her skin was still as pale as ever, maybe even paler.

I hope she isn't ill, Edmund thought and continued to watch the princess. Her grey eyes, he felt, looked as if they used to glisten brightly and dance only to find that the twinkle on those eyes must have died down and ebbed away years ago. Edmund thought that it wasn't fair to have such beautiful jewels lose their luster just that way. But then again, to think that Eleanor's eyes had seen those dark times while so young, and maybe even relived each moment in her dreams, then perhaps her vision in and out would certainly have darkened the way they were now. At the present, all Edmund could see was an icy gaze with no emotion except mainly of those of sadness and fear. Who knew what else was hidden behind them?

Finally the group had arrived in front of great double doors. Peter held one door ajar as Susan led in Eleanor and Edmund. Peter followed shortly after closing the door behind him. Eleanor looked around the homey yet richly furnished room. As with the other rooms of Cair Paravel, Narnian embroidered tapestries hung from the corners of the rooms behind flower vases. The curtains though were not red. They were white with streams of light gray silk, clean and smelling of fresh pine. In one corner of the room was a great fireplace wherein burned a small but comfortably warm fire. Eleanor noticed the Narnian coat-of-arms hanging just above the frame. She followed the monarchs to a set of couches where waited a young girl, perhaps a year or so younger than Eleanor, holding some sort of flask with red liquid (which she quickly put away after what she seemed to have conducted a brief examination of Eleanor) and standing to meet them.

"Lucy," Peter said and gestured to Eleanor. Remembering that she had no desire to be addressed as Princess, Peter gave Lucy a look, which the younger sister quickly understood, "Welcome to Cair Paravel, Your Highness," Lucy smiled as she ran over and stood before the Borovian. Eleanor would have been put ill at ease to have been addressed so by a girl younger than herself but Lucy's welcoming smile and easy gestures gave Eleanor courage to speak softly, "Please, Your--"

Susan cleared her throat. Eleanor continued, "Lucy. Do call me Eleanor. I have no desire to be addressed in any other way," Eleanor mustered a hesitant smile, which Lucy minded not and said graciously, "Very well," said the queen, "Now come, all of you. Sit and tell me everything," Lucy led everyone to the couches and waved her hand over a knee-high table, "Tea and cakes," said she, so friendly that Eleanor felt a little more comfortable. Lucy and Susan insisted that she had something to eat, for she looked deathly pale. Eleanor thankfully conceded. Lucy smiled thoughtfully and looked at her brother Edmund to inquire but he appeared as if he was hiding something, and what ever it was seemed to be paining him, "Edmund? Are you all right?" she asked in a gentle tone. Edmund opened his mouth to speak but instead found himself in a fit of coughs. Peter jerked in his seat, "By the Lion," he exclaimed and made for the door, "I'll go get some mead, Ed. Rest yourself."

Edmund would've argued that he'd go get it himself but seeing as that might make Peter only insist he smiled gratefully instead. Lucy trotted to him and gave her temporarily mute brother a hug, "Oh, Edmund!" she scolded playfully, "Did you not bring a cloak?"

Edmund smiled and whispered hoarsely, "I did."

Eleanor bit her lower lip. The beavers said that she was the youngest in her family with two older siblings named Ludwig and Mathilda. As Eleanor watched Lucy pour out loving affection for her brother, Eleanor couldn't help but wonder if she had ever been the same with Ludwig. Forcing the thought from her mind, she decided to thank Edmund properly for his role in the evening mission, just as she had thanked Susan. She looked at the young king and said, "Thank you, Edmund, for keeping guard over our ride to Cair Paravel."

Edmund was slightly taken aback by the address and he caught Eleanor's grey stare again. The smile on her face never reached her eyes. Susan spoke, "We were all willing to take you here, Eleanor," said she gently and Eleanor looked to the queen as she continued speaking, "We promise you a home and friendship here at Cair Paravel."

Lucy smiled, "Absolutely," she added. In silence they all sat, contemplating on their thoughts and listening to the quiet flames that crackled in the fireplace. Lucy looked at her two siblings, who both seemed to be cast deep into their own thoughts, then to the princess, who looked as if she were caught up in a battle in her own world.

A broken spirit, poor girl, Lucy thought as she watched Eleanor set her eyes low and staring at the carpet, fumbling with her hands and gripping her cloak (which she had the good manners to have folded the moment she stepped into Cair Paravel.) Lucy let out a soft sigh and decided to see if she could somehow look passed the princess, beginning with her present air. It felt so restrained around her, as if there were thick invisible stone barriers protecting her from anyone who wished to reach her. Lucy knew that, from experience with Edmund when he was still bitter towards she and Peter and Susan, breaking through such barriers would be a difficult task, for such structures were purposefully built by the person as if to cast a fortress around himself hoping that the world will never find him or reach him, also that he will never reveal who he really was. It was said that building such a structure so great made one strong, but Lucy knew that it was a lie. People who did such things were actually deeply wounded inside, and the longer they kept within their barriers, the more difficult it will be for others to break in to them, and even more for them to break out to others. Lucy felt a pang of sympathy for Eleanor, imagining that if she were in her place, she would fair no better, for the young queen could not imagine life without Mother, Father, Peter, Edmund, and Susan. No. She'd much rather die than lose all of them, and the fact that Eleanor still seemed to be alive—'barely'— and suffering the losses of her family and people was something for Lucy. I want to help her, thought the young girl as she watched Eleanor sag back in her seat, But I may not be quite the right person to do it. Once again the door opened and Peter entered carrying in his hand a goblet of mead. He handed it to Edmund and said apologetically, "Very sorry that slipped my mind, Ed. Drink at once so your throat can be relieved."

Edmund had no argument to that and drank the warm, sweet liquid as it soothingly passed down his throat and, after a few hearty sips, felt much better and spoke normally, "Thanks, Pete," he said and smiled contentedly and turned to Eleanor, "And I meant to say that you're most welcome, Eleanor."

Eleanor looked at Edmund. Hearing his true voice for the first time was a little strange, for she had heard everyone else's. The princess nodded weakly and looked to the fireplace, watching the flames dance within. Edmund spoke again, softly and carefully, "Is everything all right, Lady?"

Eleanor looked at him, her expression never softened and Edmund flinched slightly, "Indeed," said the princess and stared at her hands, "Does anyone else know of my coming here?"

Susan hesitated for a moment but decided upon answering honestly, "None but we and the Beavers," she added, "And of course, the horses Philip and Thistleberry. Why do you ask, pray tell?"

Eleanor shook her head and let out a choked smirk which she hadn't intended, "Make of it what you will but I do not want so many people to know who I am."

Peter swallowed, "People believe that you are-" before the High King could think of the proper word Eleanor nodded, "Dead. I am aware." Sitting stiffly in her seat Eleanor said, "Still," Eleanor kept her gaze at the monarchs, "Please speak nothing of my identity."

Eleanor hated appearing vulnerable in front of anyone like at the moment. She set her jaw until finally, Peter spoke, "Well met, Eleanor. If anyone shall ask, we will all but say that you are a guest."

Eleanor bowed her head, "I pray thee well," said she, relief running richly in her voice. Lucy nodded, "Well then," said she, "Eleanor looks exhausted, as the lot of you," she stood and gave a look to each of her siblings. They understood what she was up to. Lucy smiled at Eleanor, "It's late. Come, and I shall personally take you to your quarters."

Eleanor conveyed her thanks and bid the rest of the monarchs good night. Afterwards, Lucy had already led her out of the room.

"In here, Eleanor," Lucy said warmly and took a key from within the folds of her dress as she unlocked one of the guest quarters. She opened the door and beckoned the princess to go in ahead of her. Eleanor entered and instantly found that the room was already prepared. A small fire crackled in its place on the far right of the room. The four-poster bed that stood before her had nightclothes laid out on the fresh sheets. To the left of the room Eleanor made out a charming arrangement of a dressing screen, a vanity and wash area. But what caught her eye were two large doors that led out to a balcony overlooking the Narnian fields. The doors were left a little ajar to allow some cool night air. The curtains fluttered gently in the weak wind. Lucy smiled, "You approve?"

Eleanor looked behind her and returned gratefully, "A charming room, Lucy. Very charming."

"Good," said the queen and walked Eleanor to a closet. Eleanor had to restrain from reaching out and fingering the intricate Narnian carvings of dryads and flowers on the mahogany. Lucy opened the closet and Eleanor could not contain her surprise to see it already fitted with a few good articles of clothing. There was a riding dress and cloak for, as Lucy mentioned, if ever Eleanor saw it fit to ride. Aside from that were two petticoats, some undergarments and three pairs of shoes. The first pair, as it obviously looked, was riding boots that could lace above the ankles. The second pair was made of soft leather, for casual occasions and regular strolls outside. Eleanor soon found that it was to match with three informal gowns that hung aside the riding dress. But the last pair, Eleanor was surprised to see, had low heels that were stitched elegantly with beads. They were to match with a beautiful ball gown for the most formal occasions. What else have the monarchs thought of? Eleanor thought, clearly surprised, "Lucy," said she, nearly lost for words, "How can I ever thank you and your siblings enough?"

Lucy smiled and clapped delightedly, "No matter. This isn't even half of your wardrobe. The dryads, your dear friends, always made my clothes along with Susan's, Peter's and Edmund's. They said they would more than gladly do it for someone such as you."

Eleanor again fought back bitter tears. The dryads truly were her dear friends. Perhaps, even, the only true friends she ever had next to the Beavers. Lucy held her arm, "Eleanor," she said gently. Lucy's dark eyes said but one message, You have wept long enough. Allow me to console you.

Eleanor suddenly felt a sudden blaze of anger within her. How she hated weeping, showing her decrease in strength. The princess put on her best posture and smiled at Lucy, "Friend," said she, "Worry not."

Lucy nodded, "I suppose you're tired," she added, "Know that you are on the side of the guest quarters. We, my siblings and I, are on the other side. Not so much of a walk, so if you need anything," Lucy smiled. She also walked Eleanor to the bedside where there was a silver bell with a chain attached and hanging under it, "For the servants," said the queen. Eleanor nodded and said, "I thank you for your kindness, Lucy. I thank you for a thousand leagues."

Lucy smiled, "You are most welcome. I shall now leave you to rest." Lucy walked to the door and opened it, ready to leave, "Sleep well, Lady," said she and closed the door.

Eleanor watched as Lucy left the room. Then, she was alone. How terrible it was to feel alone. Eleanor walked to the mirror in the vanity and saw her reflection: auburn hair, winded and in knots, cheeks coloring slowly as she warmed up, eyes looking tired and longing for rest, even though Eleanor never quite had a good rest because of her strange dreams; she always found herself waking in the middle of the night, heart pounding in her chest, sweat dripping from her brow. Eleanor looked down at her chest and saw the Narnian necklace resting against the skin below her collarbone. She held it before her and looked at the mirror. Fingering the gold engravings of a lion, said to be a representative of Aslan, Eleanor's eyes filled with tears. Why can't I remember who gave this to me? She thought bitterly at herself and walked away from the mirror and wiped her tears with a part of her cloak. She sat on the edge of the bed and her mind remained blank, as if it were taking its time choosing something to think about. It was then that an image of King Edmund appeared in Eleanor's head. She thought of the sound of his voice, deep, gentle, reassuring and kind; and the expression on his face when she first caught him watching her. His eyes, dark and expressive, showed some sort of sympathy and concern. Eleanor grunted at the thought. She didn't need any of that, she thought. She was all right by herself. Eleanor walked across the room and laid a hand gently on the doors that led to her balcony. It opened with ease, the hinges hardly making a sound. Quietly, Eleanor walked onto the terrace and hugged herself as the wind picked up and whispered in her ear. The princess rested her elbows on the railings and looked above. She could see the silhouettes of griffins flying gracefully through the night sky. They made no sound as they swooped around the castle. It took only a moment for Eleanor to realize they were guards. Then Eleanor looked below and saw that she could see the courtyard. It looked so quiet and peaceful. She saw the ground of the courtyard was slightly beige. Perhaps it is a special kind of sand, thought the princess. She sighed and let her thoughts swim, not minding the image of the just king that lingered at the back of her head.

Lucy rushed back into the receiving room where Peter, Edmund, and Susan waited patiently for her. Closing the door she walked to her siblings and said, "She's resting now, I hope."

Susan nodded, "The poor dear looked exhausted."

Edmund spoke quietly, "Well, if you've lived life her way in the woods, you'd think time would do those things to you."

Peter hummed in agreement, "Truth be told," said he, "Now, Lu. What was it you wished to speak of?"

"From the way she seems to me," Lucy said worriedly and sat beside Susan on the couch that faced Edmund and Peter, "The princess looks as if she has wounds."

Edmund took this literally, "Pardon?"

Lucy smiled weakly, "Not the wounds you think, Edmund. I mean wounds of the heart. Wounds so deep and painful that over time they have grown numb, only for us to find out they may be incapable of being healed."

The words hit Edmund like a hard angry slap on the face. Peter and Susan seemed to feel the same way. Lucy continued sadly, "She just seems so broken to me."

"But," Susan began, "She seems so reserved. I was beginning to wonder if she even wants to be here."

Peter shrugged, "Remember what Mr. Beaver said?" he recalled, "Her trust is hard to win. It may take some time before she opens her doors."

Edmund had kept quiet for some time now and finally said, "I was thinking…"

Peter nodded, "Do say."

"Should Ortemius know about this?"

Lucy shifted uneasily, "I don't think we should make any rash decisions, Ed," she said gently. Susan gestured with her hands, "But the Teacher, and no doubt the entire Council, knows of Borovia so well."

"As do Archenland, Galma, and those other countries," Peter pointed out, "I'm with Lucy on this one. The Beavers had nearly made a misstep of a decision to take her to Cair Paravel without confiding with her first. What more if we reveal her identity without her even trusting us?"

Edmund nodded, "Well put," he said and suddenly felt sick. Today certainly had been a full one, he thought. He awoke from a nightmare and lacked a good deal of sleep. He had ridden out in the cold in order to ensure the princess's safety along with that of Susan's, and Lucy mentions wisely that there are more hardships ahead. Edmund stifled a yawn and Susan stood and walked over to him, "We're all tired," she said, "I think it would be best to talk to the Beavers tomorrow. After all, they promised to be here by morning."

Susan laid a gentle kiss in Edmund's hair to bid him quiet good night and did the same for Peter and Lucy. She took the tea tray from the table to take outside, calling a wish for sweet dreams over her shoulder as her siblings replied accordingly. Lucy hugged Peter and bid him good night and trotted out of the room. Edmund and Peter were left on the couch watching the fire begin to die down. Peter patted Edmund's knee, "You all right, Ed?"

Edmund smiled, "I'm fine. Just a bit nostalgic."

Peter nodded, "Best get some sleep then," he said, "You go on ahead. I'll put out the fire."
Edmund conceded as he bid his older brother good night and walked out the room.

Peter watched after the younger brother as he walked to the fireplace and leaned against the frame with a supporting arm. His fingers brushed lightly against the coat-of-arms and he looked up to see the silhouette of the Lion as the main emblem. He sighed, Aslan, guide us, Peter looked back at the flames, Let us be an aid to the last Borovian in the Narnian Empire.

Author's Note: So there it goes. Please review! I love hearing your opinions, especially since this is the first encounter with Eleanor, Princess of Borovia – or as she says: Princess-of-None. Pretty please? :) By the way, the prologue is written differently now. Same sequence of events, though :)