A/N: I'm alive! Sorry it's been awhile! R & R! Beware: Major P/E fluff and hottness in next chapter. No, not straight out porn but probably lots of other stuff.

Disclaimer: Don't own the characters. C.S. Lewis does.

The melting ice dripped along the jagged edges of the stone wall, running down into the younger King's tunic. He did not flinch, but remained still just as everyone else does. Peter was beside him, staring blankly at the Stone Table in front of him. His head fell forward to rest on the palms of his hands, running his fingers from the top of his scalp down, feeling the thick hair straighten under his fingertips. Susan stood with Lucy at the entrance, leaning heavily on the wall as she dwelled in her thoughts. Lucy was shaking slightly, fear taking over. Caspian sat with the Professor, drinking in the awkward silence. Peter took a deep breath, turning his head to look at Edmund.

Edmund met his gaze before tearing it away to stare at the carving of Aslan. Peter followed his stare and looked upon the beloved face of the Lion, finally nodding. He stood to his feet, casting a glance upon Edmund before turning to Lucy.

"We need to find Aslan." The silence was broken as Peter made his way to Lucy, eyes pleading. "Do you think you could find him if we sent you back to where you first saw him?"

Lucy cast a sideways glance to Susan, nodding her head shortly after. Peter smiled at her gently, turning to Caspian. "Will you see to it that she is given a horse?"

Trumpkin, who had been sitting at the foot of the Stone Table, jumped to his feet and took a step forward. "That's your big plan!? Sending a little girl into the darkest parts of the forest!? Alone!?"

Peter took a step forward, hand balling into a fist. "It's our only chance!"

"And she won't be alone." Susan placed a warm hand on Lucy's shoulder, staring Trumpkin down.

Trumpkin just stared at him in disbelief, eyebrows furrowing as he shook his head. "Haven't you had enough of this already?"

"Nibabrick was my friend too, but he lost hope. Queen Lucy hasn't," the badger stepped forward from his place beside the younger King. "and neither have I."

Reepicheep stepped forward, unsheathing his sword and bowing his head. "For Aslan."

A Narnian bear mimicked the small mouse, holding his great furry paw to his heart. "For Aslan."

Trumpkin just shook his head, stepping closer to Lucy. "Then I'm going with you."

She shook her head. "No, they need you here."

"We have to hold them off until Susan and Lucy get back." Peter whispered, catching Edmund's eye. Edmund just nodded, biting his lower lip and lowering his head to stare at the ground. Holding them off meant fighting until they died, both Pevensie brothers knew it.

"If I may," Caspian glanced towards his professor before taking a step forward, "Miraz may be a tyrant and a murder, but as king, he is subject to the traditions and expectations of his people. There is one in particular that might buy us some time."

"Continue." Edmund spoke from his dark corner, eyes narrowed at Caspian.

"The leader, or king, of an army is to face in a single combat duel. Whoever is to fall first, their army must surrender." Caspian glanced to Peter. "It is usually the High King that participates."

"No!" Edmund stood to his feet, walking to where Peter stood. "There has to be another way."

"No, it works." Peter turned to his little brother, offering him a smile. "I need you to deliver the challenge to Miraz. Can you do that?"

"No, I won't." Edmund shook his head, helplessly glancing to Susan. "I can't..."

"Please, Edmund. Narnia needs us." Peter placed a hand on his shoulder. "Do this for Narnia."

Edmund lowered his head in defeat, nodding shortly and settling back against the rock. He heard Susan, Caspian, and Lucy leave to find a horse. Trumpkin, the badger and the bear followed to the weaponry room, preparing for battle. The Professor went wandering down the hallways, probably trying to find something to do with himself. Edmund just listened as his brother spread out the rough scroll, taking a quill and writing out far more intelligent words than Edmund knew. Peter finished the last part, turning around and handing it to Edmund. He took it carefully, shaking his head rapidly, struggling to hold the tears back.

"Ed?" Peter noticed the younger boy's inner turmoil and pulled him into a fierce embrace.

"Don't do this. Please." Edmund gasped into his brother's leather armor. "I can fight him. I can fight Miraz..."

"You know it is the duties of a High King." Peter took a seat on the edge of the table, pulling Edmund into his lap and gently brushing away the stray raven hairs. "It will be okay, Ed."

Edmund just shook his head, trembling in Peter's embrace. Peter placed his lips to Edmund's throat, placing a light kiss there before moving to the back of his neck and placing another kiss there. His lips grazed over the skin, placing soft kisses here and there in an attempt to comfort his brother. Edmund just continued to whimper, but no tears shed. Peter felt Edmund's hair tickle his nose as he placed a kiss to the top of Edmund's neck on the back. He strayed lower until he reached Edmund's shoulders, pausing there and resting his mouth against the soft flesh. Edmund shifted in his lap, turning to straddle his brother. Eyes sad and lost, he bent his head to rest his forehead on Peter's shoulder. Peter kissed the front of his neck, lips moving to every part of the bared skin, trying desperately to bring some comfort to the small body. Words didn't seem to be helping, so he was trying physical affection.

"Please don't do this." Edmund whispered, allowing himself to drown in the loving gestures. "Please."

Peter didn't reply, but instead lifted his brother's chin with his free hand and tilted his head towards him. Seeing the tears that trailed down his brother's face, his heart slowly broke. He mouthed a few incoherent words before pressing his lips to Edmund's cheek and kissing away the tears that now fell. Edmund continued to silently beg him, trembling even more. Edmund was brave, strong and most of all he held his emotions back, but the thought of losing Peter made the dam break away. Edmund let out a quiet whimper as Peter kissed along his jaw line up to his ear.

"Please." Edmund begged before Peter pulled away, coming to rest his forehead against his brother's instead.

"Be brave for me, Ed. That is all I ask of you." Peter whispered, leaning forward till his breath brushed against Edmund's lips.

Edmund closed his eyes, sucking in a large breath before he slowly nodded. When he opened his eyes again, they were dark and unreadable, his barrier having reformed. "I don't like this, Peter. However, I understand that I am bound to the duties of a king and to disobey the High King would be ignoring the duties of the lower king. I shall only do this for you and because I trust you to do what is best for Narnia."

Peter closed his eyes, letting a loose smile work over his face. "Thank you, Edmund."

Edmund just nodded, standing up and with scroll in hand, started to walk towards the weaponry room. Peter watched him for a minute before calling out to him. Edmund turned to look at him, eyebrow raised.

"I trust that you will not let him refuse, correct?" Peter watched his brother nod and turn away, but once more he called out to him. "...and Ed?"

"Yes?" Edmund stood by the archway, eyes focused on his brother.

"You have never and will never be the lower king in my eyes."

Edmund smiled and turned away, climbing up the steps toward the weaponry room. He came to face Glenstorm, bowing his head in respect to the great centaur. He quickly explained what Peter wanted him to do and if he would be willing to escort him down to Miraz. Glenstorm nodded, deciding to take a giant along with them. Lucy was the one to suggest they each take a branch from a sacred Narnian tree as a symbol of peace. Edmund agreed and they started up the hill. It wasn't long before they crossed the soldiers, nodding their heads toward them despite the rivalry.

"I come to speak to Miraz." Edmund informed one of the guards.

"It's King Miraz to you, peasant." The guard hissed, gesturing the younger man to follow him.

"Actually, I'm king as well. It would serve you well if you weren't so quick to call me names."

The guard rolled his eyes before pushing Edmund into the tent entrance. Miraz took one look at him and laughed, white teeth flashing behind a crooked smile. "And who are you?"

"Edmund." He let a coy smile stretch across his face. "I know your nephew."

"What brings you here, boy?"

Edmund held up the scroll, his eyes focused on the tyrant in front of him. "My brother."

"Ah. Continue."

He let out a slow, agonizing breath before he rolled out the scroll, focusing his attention on the first line. "I, Peter, by the gift of Aslan, by election and by conquest, High King of Narnia, Lord of Cair Paravel, and emperor of the lone islands in order to prevent the abominable effusion of blood, to here by challenge Miraz to single combat upon the field of battle. The fight shall be to the death and the reward shall be total surrender."

He lowered the scroll, watching Miraz's face. Miraz just blinked at him before leaning back in his chair, studying the young man. "Tell me, Prince Edmund-"

"King." Edmund continued rolling his scroll.

"Pardon me?' Miraz looked at him in total confusion.

"It's King Edmund actually. Just king though. Peter's the High King." Edmund shrugged after he finished rolling the scroll. "I know, it's confusing."

"Why would you risk such a proposal when our armies could wipe you out by nightfall?" Miraz raised his hand in question before setting it down upon the table.

'Get him to accept. Get him to accept.'

"Haven't you already underestimated our numbers? I mean only a week ago, Narnians were extinct." Edmund had no problem with speeches or convincing people. It was just like sword fighting. It was all a matter of strategy and wits. Get inside there head, make them feel as if they have to.

"And so they will be again." Miraz whispered coldly.

"Then you should have little to fear." Edmund pointed out.

Miraz narrowed his eyes, sitting back in his chair before letting out a loud laugh. Edmund did not react to the laugh but stayed silent.

Peter, meanwhile, was perched upon the Stone Table, claiming it his new favorite spot. Squeezing his eyes shut, he thought of the future, of the battle he was about to bring upon himself. His heart shattered once again when he remembered Edmund's begging, his pleas not to do this, and his eagerness to fight instead. But no, Edmund had fought for him for too long, it was Peter who had led Narnia to this and Peter who was going to end this.

He felt someone take a seat next to him and he turned his head to glance at him.

Caspian.

An awkward silence passed between the two men before Caspian spoke. "I feel as if I should apologize for my actions."

Peter narrowed his eyes, opening his mouth to snap at him, but Edmund's words flashed through his mind. "I think I owe you an apology as well."

Caspian nodded, looking towards the carving of Aslan. His eyes lowered and he spoke gently. "Are you afraid?"

Peter took a deep breath, turning to the Prince. "Dying does not scare me. It's the fact that Miraz might win and destroy Narnia...and my family that scares me."

Caspian nodded again before turning to look at Peter as well. "I spoke to your brother. He told me that being king was never easy, the tasks and responsibilities were difficult and numerous. You must be willing to listen to those that try and advise you. You must be willing to make sacrifices for the Narnians, no matter what it is that you must let go of. He told me to let go of my desire for revenge."

Peter nodded. "Edmund is wise. What he speaks is true."

"Your brother is interesting." Caspian whispered after some thought. "He is silent, but his prescience alone seems to speak, if that's possible. He doesn't seem to question the good or bad, but follows his heart and does what is fair," a pause, "his silence confuses me. I mean, he has so much wisdom, so much experience and he could easily correct me or judge me, but he does no such thing. He just stays...silent."

"He..." A shaky breath. "I cannot explain his silence."

"His eyes are..." Caspian began, but could not find the words to finish the thought. "I read about him in the storybooks," a glance to the king, "I know what he did for you."

Peter raised an eyebrow as the prince continued. "I know he gave his life for you."

Peter just nodded, closing his eyes only to open them a moment later as painful memories passed under his eyelids. "More than once."

"His loyalty to you is unwavering. He does not question your motives or argue with your reasoning. For that alone, I admire him."

Peter turned and gave a grateful smile. "He is truly a blessing...a dark knight and a fallen hero. That is why you must promise me something, Caspian."

"Anything."

"If I don't defeat Miraz, I want you to protect him, to make sure he gets through alive. Tell him not to mourn for me, but to remember the good and laugh. Tell him I love him. I always have and always will, and I will never leave him." Peter looked down at his folded hands. "Tell that to him if I shall fall...promise me you will."

Caspian took a deep breath before nodding. "I admire your bravery, King Peter. You are as brave as they described you in the storybooks," a short laugh, "I used to say 'I'm going to be just like King Peter one day'. I could never say it around Miraz, obviously, but I wanted to be a leader like you, not one like my uncle."

"I doubt you still feel that way," Peter whispered, "after all I've done."

Caspian extended his hand towards Peter, palm facing upwards. "No. I still want to be a brave leader, whose heart is set in the right place."

Peter looked down at the extended hand, before taking his own and spreading it out across the flat of Caspian's palm. He felt the calloused hands and warm skin against his palm, eyes focused on their hands.

"Your brother said to learn from the past, but don't hold on to it. Can we put the past behind us?" Caspian whispered eyes on Peter.

Peter nodded, fingers bending to curve around Caspian's hand. "We've learned each other's weaknesses and we know how to deal with them now. I think we can do that."

Caspian smiled, his hand gripping Peter's now too. "Allies?"

Peter shook his head and pulled Caspian into a friendly hug, hands still clasped between them. "Brothers."

Caspian smirked and returned the embrace, before pulling away completely. "Thank you, King Peter."

"Peter." He gave a small smile. "I don't call you Prince Caspian every time I see you, now do I?"

Caspian laughed, "There is a difference in titles though."

They stood together, walking back to the weaponry room. There the plans were laid out in front of him, in case Peter were to lose or Miraz's army refused to surrender. Peter bent down to trace his fingers in a path across the map, explaining the archer's duty and positions along the upper walls of the How.

"He accepted." A voice behind him suddenly brought him from his thoughts.

Peter turned to see a broken Edmund standing behind him. Edmund just met his eyes before he handed him the parchment and turned to walk to the other side of the table. His hair fell in front of his eyes as he inclined his head to look at the battle plans before him. Peter stared at him for a minute before he continued on with the battle plan.

They finished discussing the backup plan, Peter walking down the hallways to prepare for battle, Edmund had already left to prepare. He pulled his tunic off, gently pulling the tight spandex like shirt over his head and down over his slim body, then placing the under lay of his tunic on again. He reached for the mail coat only to find it gone from the spot where he had laid it.

"Looking for this?" Edmund whispered, mail coat hanging in his hand.

Peter smiled and nodded, eyes following as his brother walked to stand in front of him. Edmund handed the coat to him, watching as he slipped it on over his head. Peter then stepped into his mail leggings, pulling them over his trousers and doing the lace in the front. Edmund handed him his tabard, helping him to pull it over his muscular chest. They finished adjusting his belt and Peter took a seat on the stone, Edmund sitting beside him and bending over to attach the pauldrons to his shoulders. He worked on the straps for several minutes, dwelling in the silence.

"Are you okay?" Peter whispered, careful not to move too much.

Edmund glanced at his face before going back to working on the straps. He didn't answer the question but gave a faint nod in response, before moving to attach the vambraces. When he had done so on both sides, he kneeled in front of Peter, working on the grieves and sabatons. When he was done, he sat back on his heels, staring at the ground.

"It's going to be okay, Ed." Peter whispered again. "Ed?"

Edmund said nothing but leaned forward and pressed his forehead to Peter's knee, squeezing his eyes shut. "I can't let you do it, Pete. I can't."

Peter breathed in deeply, fingers weaving into the thick raven hair. "Ed..."

"I can fight for you, Pete. I'm not afraid to die. I've been dying since the Witch, it will be a relief for my body to finally join my heart," Edmund's voice broke, "but you have so much to live for. You still have the heart I lost all those years ago. You don't deserve death, Peter. I do."

"Don't ever say that, Ed. Ever! You are just as good as me, if not better." Peter closed his eyes, before whispering, "Stand up."

Edmund slowly rose to his feet, eyes still downcast. Peter rested his hands on either of Edmund's shoulders. He leaned forward, mouth coming to rest at the shell of Edmund's ear. "I'm doing this for you. To protect you."

Edmund choked out a sob, clumsily pressing forward until he was in Peter's embrace. His body trembled as he let out every emotion he had been holding back. Peter just held him there, shielding him from the world, from the hurt that it gave.

Edmund pulled back, words spilling out of his mouth. "What if you die, Pete? What am I supposed to do without you? I couldn't live without you...I couldn't..."

Peter gently slid a hand along Edmund's jaw, taking his chin and tilting it up towards him. "It will be okay."

"But what if it's not," Edmund let out a rush of air. "What if-"

Peter just lowered his head, eyes on Edmund's lips. He slowly pressed his lips to Edmund's, the kiss so soft, it was almost ghostly. Eyelids fluttered closed, heart pounding in his chest. Full red lips pressed to thin pale, black and blonde mixing as foreheads rested against each other, breathing in perfect harmony.

It suddenly dawned on him that he was kissing his brother, his baby brother and he pulled back sharply, abruptly ending the kiss. A stream of apologies fled from his lips, eyes diverting from Edmund's. "I shouldn't have done that, it's just...it seemed like the only way to shut you up. I'm sorry, I really didn't mean to. I don't know what I was think-"

His apologies were cut off by the thin pale lips, a cold hand resting on the back of his neck. When he pulled back and glanced up at his older brother, his eyes were dark. "Sorry. Seemed like the only way to shut you up."

They both blushed, immediately avoiding each other's gaze. Before any of them could muster the courage to speak again, the horns were sounded and Edmund found himself short of breath. His eyes darted to Peter's, helplessness clearly read in them. Peter just nodded, taking his helmet and placing it on top of his head. He grabbed his shield and made a move for his sword, but Edmund shook his head.

"I want to carry it out for you." Edmund looked down at his feet. "I want to walk beside you."

Peter smiled at him carefully. "Alright."

They turned and walked down the tunnel together until they arrived at the exit of the How. Edmund nodded towards Peter, eyes hard and ready for battle. Peter emerged from the tunnel, a determined look set on his face. He could hear Edmund behind him, the same expression plastered on his. Narnians let out small encouragements as he passed them and when he came to the dealing ground, they swept into silence. Edmund extended the sheath out to him, Peter gripping the hilt and pulling out the sword. Narnians cheered with all of their might, encouraging Peter to go on.

He stepped out onto the battleground, boot clanking against the cold stone, pushing the kiss into the back of his mind.

Miraz laughed coldly, extending his hands out at his side. "There is still time to surrender."

"Well, feel free."

"How many more must die for the throne?" Miraz's eyes were dark in the sun's glare, his sword extended in front of him.

"Just one." He pushed the visor down and took off towards a boulder, pushing off of it and bringing his sword down on Miraz's. Armies on both sides let out encouraging hollers.

A strike went to Miraz's left, but struck the shield instead. A slam to Peter's helmet and he staggered backwards, almost losing his footing.

Block, strike, block, strike.

It fell into an easy rhythm, a simple dance in a field of warriors. He avoided the attacks he knew were too heavy for him to parry, and ducked from the ones made at his neck. He slashed Miraz's back, sending him staggering forwards. He gave a small smile under the visor, jogging forward, metal clashing with metal. Miraz had somehow gotten the upper hand and slammed his shield into Peter's face, helmet falling to the ground.

'And you know what they say: there's few who go through them gates that come out again.'

Peter watched as his brother's lone figure disappeared behind the gates.

Edmund's breathing quickened, his throat suddenly dry.

It was a weird thing to be running for your life, but at the same time running from your brother. Peter does not feel the snow dampen his pant leg as he stumbles towards the woods, running from the sleigh behind him. He can almost see Edmund's twisted smile saying 'I finally got even'. It hurts more than anything to know that Edmund is the reason they are running, but somehow Peter feels that Edmund isn't smiling.

Peter held up his sword to block the incoming attack. He fell back against a rock, jagged edges scraping against flesh. One attack to his shoulder made him forget the pain and focus on the battle ahead of him.

"Hello." Dark eyelashes fluttered against pale skin, body thin from lack of food. Sisters rushed to hug him, wrapping their small arms around his thin body. Peter stayed behind, unmoving, untrusting. Only when Edmund turned to walk up the hill did Peter call out to him.

"Try not to wander off." Smiles were shared and bonds were restored.

Miraz left an opening and Peter took it, slashing at the flesh of his knee.

"Aslan believed you could..." A deep inhale of the cold morning air. "...and so do I."

Miraz faltered, gripping his knee in pain. Peter took a step back, gathering his breath and pushing the aching pain away. He let out a small cry and raced forward, missing Miraz's shoulder and instead finding himself on his back. He let out a moan of pain, widely searching for his opponent.

He fell, eyes screwed shut in pain as his hands clasped at the wound, as if trying to find a way to relieve himself of this pain. He fell to the ground, his body finally catching up with his state of mind. The pain of his memories mixing with the pain in his body. Peter could only watch as his brother fell, unable to save him, unable to catch him. He had never been there to catch Edmund, only stood by and watched as he fell, just like he did now. He had stood by and watched as Edmund began to fall after their dad left for the war. He had watched as sweet Edmund had turned bitter, falling even farther away. He had watched as Edmund had fallen into the White Witch's hands. That thought alone angered him. He would no longer watch him fall; he would be there to catch him now.

Peter stood to his feet again, charging blindly at the enraged king. He found himself once again flipped onto his back, totally at Miraz's mercy.

Tears flowed down bloody cheeks, armor clashed together as they embraced. Disbelief hanging in the air as the brothers once again were reunited in life. They pulled apart, blue meeting with brown.

"When are you going to learn to do as you're told?" Smiles were exchanged and they once again found each other in the other's arms.

Edmund was no longer falling, Peter had caught him.

He felt his shoulder rip out of place as Miraz slammed his foot down against his shield. He let out a loud cry of pain, eyes screwing shut. His breathing quickened as hot white pain coursed through his shoulder. He slammed his sword into Miraz's, forcing the king off of his shield, so he could free his arm.

"There you are." Peter came to rest on the railing beside his brother. "I've been looking everywhere for you."

Edmund turned and smiled at him. "Sorry. I was just studying the stars, that's all."

Brothers stared up at the stars together, pointing out the different consolations. They smiled at each other, pleased with each other's presence and happy not to be fighting for once. Tonight, they had become kings of Narnia and tonight, they had become friends again.

Miraz brought his sword down against Peter, forcing the younger king to roll away in order to avoid the blows. He gasped every time he rolled onto his shoulder, pain screaming through his body.

He pulled his younger brother into a fierce hug, no intention of letting go. Edmund squirmed in his embrace, letting out a short chuckle as he pulled away. "Sorry, but you were suffocating me."

"You've been gone for six months, Ed. What do you suspect from me? A handshake?"

Edmund laughed, allowing himself to be pulled back into the embrace. He could only smile as he listened to Peter rant on about how he was never letting Edmund leave for that long ever again. Two months was the maximum Edmund could be gone now.

"I missed you, Pete." He managed to whisper in Peter's ear, smiling as his brother's grip tightened around him.

"I missed you too."

He rolled backwards, tripping the other king and climbing to his feet. He glanced towards where Edmund stood by the sidelines before turning his attention back to the duel. His attention, however, was grabbed by the incoming hoof beats. He glanced up to where Caspian and Susan rode towards him.

Fingers traced pale cheekbones, eyelids fluttering closed as the nightmare faded away.

'Broken glass,' Peter thought, 'Beautiful, just as a glass sculpture, but broken. So very broken.'

"Does his Highness need a respite?" Miraz taunted, short of breath himself.

"Five minutes?" Peter choked out, trying to inhale as much air as his lungs would allow him.

"Three!" Miraz spit out, turning from Peter before he showed any sign of true pain.

Peter limped towards the sidelines, Edmund meeting him halfway and helping him back to the stool. Concern was washed over his face, but he said nothing, just continued to help Peter and retrieve his helmet. Peter spotted Susan coming towards him and rushed out to meet her, panic in his eyes.

"Lucy!?" He weakly questioned.

"She got through." Susan gestured towards Caspian. "With a little help."

Peter bowed his head to Caspian, breathing heavily. "Thanks."

"You were busy." He half smirks, but immediately frowns when pain flashes through the blue eyes.

Peter orders Susan to stand with the archers and does his best to return her embrace but can only cry in pain when she does so. Edmund comes to his side, helping him down onto the stool. He speaks shortly with Caspian before kneeling down to wipe Peter's sword with a cloth. Caspian came to his side, gently prying the shield from his hands, but only received a pained cry from the king. Caspian immediately took the shield and returned to set it against the wall.

"I think it's dislocated." Peter hissed through clenched teeth.

Edmund hurried to him, gently placing his hands on the tender area, careful not hurt him further.

Peter stared ahead, deep in thought. "What do you think happens back home if we die here?"

Edmund pauses, breath catching in his throat. He doesn't want to believe that Peter might not make it, that Peter might not return to him. The thought of living without Peter was enough to send a shiver down his spine. Peter was everything to Edmund. He was the reason Edmund still lived, still breathed in air, and still fought for Narnia. Without Peter, Edmund was nothing. The balance would be disrupted, the sun would no longer shine, it would always be night, and always bitter...chaos would erupt.

"You know you've always been there and I never really-"

He snapped his brother's shoulder back into place, struggling with the emotions welling up inside of him. He wouldn't allow Peter to say goodbye...not yet. Peter had to come back, he just had to.

"Save it for later."

Peter watched as his brother hurried away from him. He stood to his feet, moving towards him. "Ed?"

Edmund turned to him, Peter's sword in hand, and backed away from him. "Please, not right now."

"This might be the last chance we have." Peter whispered, immediately regretting it when panic flashed in Edmund's eyes.

"No. Don't say that." Edmund choked. "Please."

He saw the pain burning in those brown eyes, the fear of losing someone so close to him. He took his shield once again before nodding at Edmund. "I love you, Edmund. Don't forget that."

Edmund just handed him his shield, avoiding eye contact, and then offered him his helmet, which he refused. He extended his sword in front of him and took off at a full sprint, eyeing his target, weighing the possibilities of all the different angles he could use. He chose the left vertical angle and slashed down, Miraz blocking his attack.

"You're Majesty!" The fawn scrambled towards him, dipping into a low bow. "I bring dire news."

Peter furrowed his eyebrows, glancing to his left and sharing a worried look with Susan. "Continue."

"King Edmund the Just has been severely injured in a battle against the Giants. He is in no traveling condition, Sire. We could not transport him back to Cair Paravel without risking his life."

No...

Once again, he found himself on his back, looking up at Miraz. Metal came crashing down onto his sword, but Peter blocked it and swung his ankle around, knocking the man to the ground. They both stood up, slashing uncontrollably at one another. Miraz lost his sword in the midst of things and used his shield as a weapon instead.

"Race you!" They took off into a flat out sprint, neck-to-neck with each other. Edmund was the quickest of his siblings though and he soon passed Peter, tagging the tree long before Peter came to it. Peter went on about how Edmund had cheated, but Edmund just laughed and jumped onto Peter's back, knocking them to the ground.

He made a move to finish Miraz off, but instead had his sword ripped from his hands, leaving him defenseless. He could do nothing now but try and block the blows with his fists. He gripped the rim of Miraz's shield, twisting it so that he was now behind Miraz. Miraz elbowed him before pushing him back onto a rock. He doubled over it, gasping in pain. He moved just as a sword slashed down beside his ear. He saw the last chance he had and he went for it. He clenched his metal glove into a fist and slammed it into Miraz's injured thigh.

"Pete?"

Peter looked up from his studies, struggling to open his bruised eyelid. Edmund pulled out a chair across from him and straddled the back of it, folding his arms over the backrest.

"You okay?" His voice was quiet, barely a whisper.

"Yeah." He glanced back down at his studies, ignoring the way Edmund shifted uncomfortably.

"You know, I hurt too." Edmund slowly whispered. "I miss being king just as much as you do."

Peter closed his eyes, his bangs covering his eyes as he lowered his head. He gripped the pencil in his right hand and moved his left hand to run through the thick blonde hair atop his head. "You don't...get it..."

"I understand more than you think I do." Edmund stood to his feet.

Cheers erupted from the Narnians as Miraz sunk to his knees, holding up his hand and begging him to 'just wait'. Peter held his fist up, ready to strike at any given moment.

Lips gently connect, eyelids closing. Peter loses all sense of direction and feels himself being lifted from his body, from his prison, but instead feels himself lost-drowning-in Edmund.

"Now's not the time for chivalry, Peter!" Edmund called from the sidelines.

Peter glanced up at him briefly, holding his fist back, and waiting. He just lowered his fist, shook his head, and made his way back to Edmund. He would not kill Miraz; he would not stoop that low.

"Look out!" Edmund took a step forward, hand immediately gripping the hilt of his sword.

Peter turned around, dodging the attacks from the injured king, but managing to somehow take a hold of it and drive it into his gut. He held it there for a moment, studying the shock on his face. It looked and felt so familiar, the shock, the situation, the feelings...

He pulled the sword out of the flesh, letting Miraz drop to the ground. Edmund had been the one in this situation before, that's why it was so familiar. The shock on his face when the spear had been driven into his abdomen mirrored that of Miraz's shock. He pulled the sword back, ready to kill the tyrant.

"What's the matter, boy? Too cowardly to take life?" Miraz taunted despite his lack of oxygen.

Peter stared at him in shock for just a moment, deciding whether he really wanted to kill Miraz or not.

"I never behead them. I never drive my sword into their hearts. I slash at their throats, not deep but enough to make them fall. I go for their legs and arms, but I am not a murderer," a long drawn out sigh escaped the dark haired boy's lips, "for I know what it feels like to be the victim."

It wasn't his decision to make. It was Caspian's. "It's not mine to take." He stated calmly.

He turned to face Caspian, offering him the hilt of his sword. Caspian stepped forward, briefly making eye contact with Peter before wrapping his hand around the hilt, taking it from the king. Peter walked back to Edmund, nodding in his direction but not stepping any closer. The air was tense, a certain level of darkness radiating from the prince. Peter saw the hate that burned in his eyes when he had taken the sword, saw how much he wanted to avenge his father. Caspian held the sword up, one hand on the hilt, the other resting against the metal blade. He and Miraz spoke only in whispers, the others could not hear. All of the Narnians were silent, as well as the Telmarines.

An enraged cry tore from the prince as the sword was driven downwards, but not into Miraz's heart.

Caspian had spared Miraz's life and when he turned, Narnians erupted into cheers. Edmund carefully patted Caspian on the back, a reassuring smile on his face. Peter nodded at him before he heard an uproar behind him. He turned just in time to see Miraz fall to his knees. The man that had killed him, a trusted advisor, accused them of the murder. There was to be a war, no doubt now.

"Get ready!" Peter yelled up to the archers.

"Peter!" Caspian pointed to behind him.

Peter turned just to see a Telmarine move towards him. He attacked, finding his old strength again. He did what he had never done before and beheaded the man. He wasn't really thinking love and compassion anymore, just a way to win this war.

"Go!" He screamed to Caspian, before sprinting to the end of the arena, Edmund on his heels.

They stood, side-by-side, brother and brother, king and king, man and man. They did not flinch when the catapults landed near them or shrink away in fear as the army approached. A horn sounded and Peter began to count, knowing Caspian was in harmony with him below ground.

"One. Two."

More dust flew into the air, Edmund's sword extended by his side.

"Five. Six."

The army was covering distance quickly and Edmund felt his heart beat with the familiar adrenaline.

"Eight. Nine." Peter took a deep breath. "Get ready!"

Half of a second passed and then slowly, steadily, the ground gave out beneath the horses. They stumbled and fell, riders slipping from their backs as arrows dove through their armor. He turned to look at Edmund, only to see him jump onto a horse and take off galloping towards the army.

"Charge!" Peter ran out, thrashing at his enemies, cutting them down without a second thought. He glanced up to see Caspian charging through the center, sword raised high. Another look to his left and he saw Edmund on horseback with a crossbow. He was deeply engrossed in battle, just as they all should be.

He looked forward, heart racing as he saw the rest of the Telmarine army march forward. It was a bigger army than he had ever imagined an army could be. He turned to glance at Susan, questioning her on Lucy. He wouldn't cause Narnians' their lives this time. He was going to protect them this time.

He turned around to see Caspian and Edmund fighting on horseback beside each other. He raised his sword into the air, and made sure he was heard. "Back to the How!"

They sprinted back, but skidded to a stop as the entrance collapsed. Susan hung from above, only to be dropped safely onto a platform two feet below. Caspian came up beside him and he briefly wondered where Edmund was. He turned back around and the sudden realization that they were trapped came upon him.

Edmund came up beside him, dropping the crossbow and unsheathing his sword. He glanced at Caspian, then to Susan, then to Peter. His eyes told them he was willing to fight and silently asking if they would fight to the death with him. Peter admired his brother's bravery and nodded towards his brother. He turned to face forward and then started to run, Caspian, Susan and Edmund flanking him.

He drove his sword through the heart of a soldier, kicking another out of a way, parrying an attack to his right shoulder and moving forward. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Edmund wield a second sword, then drop down one knee and slash at the other's ankles. He pushed another guard away and then glanced towards Peter. Peter held his gaze for a moment, wishing he was there beside him, holding him and shielding him from this world. Both of them knew that unless Lucy found Aslan, they would die, but at least they would die fighting for the kingdom they loved. Edmund's eyes did not show near as much as Peter's did, but they held enough to know that he was concerned for Peter's welfare.

Edmund slowly mouthed the words 'I love you' before he turned and slashed away at the soldiers. It was a strange thing fighting, knowing you will die or become a prisoner.

That was until they heard a large thud and turned to see the trees moving towards them. It was a weird sight, no doubt. Peter walked to the ditch and helped Caspian climb out. Susan and Edmund came up behind him, both looking around in disbelief.

"Lucy." Peter whispered, turning around to smile at Edmund. He then extended his sword and raced forward. "For Aslan!"

The Narnian army echoed him as he ran beside his siblings and the prince. They kept their pace even with each others until they reached the river. Swords extended in front of them in case any were to threaten them. Edmund crept up on Peter's right, a sword placed in his right hand, having lost the other sword.

They looked forward to see their younger sister and Aslan on the other side of the bridge. As the army charged forward, Aslan let out a mighty roar, stopping everyone in their tracks. The water level began to lower and from the north, a large water like man rose to his full height. In one mighty move, he had pulled the bridge apart and swallowed the general with it. They stared on in amazement, transfixed.

When the water calmed, Edmund was the first to wade into the water and make his way towards Aslan. Susan followed and then Peter and then Caspian. They emerged from the river, side by side as usual, glancing at Edmund before sinking to their knees.

"Rise, Kings and Queens of Narnia." The Pevensies did as they were told, but Caspian remained.

"All of you." Aslan finished.

Caspian shifted under the Great Lion's gaze. "I do not think I am ready."

"It is for that very reason that I know you are." Aslan nodded his head towards the Prince.

Caspian slowly rose to his feet, glancing at Edmund and remembering the advice he had been given by the Just King. Perhaps, he might be worthy of being a king. Maybe, just maybe, he had proven himself to Narnia.

They moved aside as an injured Reepicheep made his way towards Aslan. After Lucy had healed him and Aslan had restored his tail and all other business had been dealt with, did Edmund finally turn to Lucy and gather her in his arms.

"I'm so proud of you, Lu." He pressed a kiss to her forehead. "Your faith has saved us all."

Lucy smiled before pulling away to congratulate the others. Peter glanced in Edmund's direction, catching the younger's eye. Edmund just swallowed and looked down, gently laying his hand on the prince's arm and steering him away from the group. Peter tried to push away the hurt that entered his heart, looking away from the two towards Lucy. Lucy smiled, throwing her arms around his waist.

"Pete! Oh, isn't it great!? We have brought peace to Narnia again." Her smile shines in his head, pushing away the darkness.

"It's wonderful, Lu." He lifts her off the ground in a strong embrace, pressing his cheek to her hair. "I love you."

Once Lucy is lowered, she raises an eyebrow in his direction. "Oh Pete, why are you sad? We have victory!"

Peter just shook his head, turning away from his sister and walking up the side of the bank. He stares at the ground, kicking away at the small pebbles, listening to the clank it makes against his metal boots.

"Son of Adam."

The mighty voice shook him from his thoughts and he turned to look upon the Great Lion. He noticed Edmund and Caspian standing before him, Caspian on his knees, Edmund standing by his side. Aslan gave a gentle nod, his soft eyes observing the young man. "My son, you have won a great battle yet your heart holds much sorrow."

Peter was taken back by Aslan's statement, his shock written on his face. "Yes."

"Why is this, dear one?"

Peter glanced at Edmund, though his brother didn't return the look. "I have failed you."

"How so?"

"I doubted you and I cost the Narnians their lives." Guilt dripped from his voice.

Aslan sat back in front of Peter, closing his eyes temporarily. "Son of Adam, you must not dwell on your mistakes, but learn from them instead. Do you understand?"

"Yes." Peter whispered. "I'm sorry, Aslan. I really am."

"I've already forgiven you, Peter. You've learned a valuable lesson, just as your brother did. Take it to heart and may you never forget it." Aslan laid a paw on Peter's shoulder, a faint smile appearing on his muzzle.

"Thank you."

"Your welcome, my son. I will always love you and always deliver you from your pain. Remember that, dear one." Aslan nodded his mighty head, before turning away from Peter to the younger of the brothers. "Well done, Edmund."

Edmund bowed his head, a smile gracing his lips. "Thank you, Aslan...for everything."

Aslan nodded his head once again, before turning and padding away. Edmund remained quiet, as well as Caspian, for several moments. Caspian finally turned to Peter and placed a warm hand on the broad shoulder. "A battle well-fought on your part, King Peter."

Peter smiled, clasping Caspian's arm. He turned to Edmund, smile immediately fading when he saw the grim look on his brother's face. Edmund caught his eye, and then looked down, clearly ashamed. Peter grasped his brother's arm, pulling him back.

"Ed, can we talk?"

Edmund shook his head, the inner turmoil showing through his eyes. "Not right now, Pete. It's not the right time."

With that said, the dark haired boy turned on his heel and walked out, leaving a rather distraught Peter in his wake. He took a deep breath, before following the trail of his brother, but remaining several yards behind him and the prince.

"Pete!"

Susan pulled on his shoulder, forcing him to slow his step to match with hers.

"What's the matter, Peter? Lucy said you looked upset."

Peter shrugged, glancing up to his brother and then back down at the ground, studying the cold gray pebbles and the way they seemed to shine in the afternoon sun.

"It's Edmund, isn't it?" Susan slowly started.

Peter glanced at her, taking a deep breath and then nodding.

"Don't hate me for asking, Peter, but is there...you know...something," a long pause, "...going on...?"

A shrug.

"There is, isn't there?" Susan whispered. "Don't be ashamed, Pete. I've always suspected it."

Peter raised an eyebrow. "You have? There's not really anything going on. It was just something that...that happened."

"Do you love him?" Susan shook her head, keeping her voice low. "Okay, stupid question. Do you like him, you know, more than a brother should? You can tell me, Pete."

An uncomfortable silence paused before Peter slowly nodded, a chocked sob coming from deep within his throat. "I can't seem to do anything right, Su. Edmund and I were getting along fine, and I had to go and ruin it. I just had to muck things up...again."

"What did you do?"

"I-I...I kissed him." A blush spread across his cheeks and he cast his eyes to the ground, studying the silver pebbles once again. "On the lips."

Susan paused for a moment, slowing her steps even more so they would not come to close to the boy walking in front of them. "Did he kiss you back?"

"No, not the first time." Susan raised an eyebrow at this remark. "The second time, he kissed me."

"When did this happen?"

"Right before my duel with Miraz. He was upset and I was just trying to com..." He seemed to loose his trail of thought, before slowly continuing in a hushed tone. "Now, he won't talk to me. I think he's ashamed of what happen."

Susan slowly brushed her hand over Peter's arm, dodging a tree as they trudged up the hill towards the castle. "Peter, Edmund's probably confused, not ashamed."

"What do I do, Susan? Just forget about it?" Peter slowly whispered.

"No, talk to him. Tonight." She pulled him up towards the front of the group, flashing Edmund a quick smile as she walked between the two brothers.

What if Edmund turned him away? What if he told him that it was wrong and disgusting? What if he told him the kiss was a mistake? What if he never spoke to him again? What if he hit Peter for being so sinful? What if he laughed and called him names? What if he refused to ever to speak to him again?

So, Peter continued to hammer himself with 'what if' questions, his heart beating rapidly against his chest as they made their way back to the castle. Eyelids fluttered close, the image of black curls, soft pale skin, and thin lips still fresh in his mind.

Sucks I know. I actually kind of liked the scene with Miraz and the flashbacks, I had fun writing it. Next chapter is major fluff and just P/E hottness. But only if you review! Let me know what you thought of the kiss, cause I was so unsure about that! Love ya guys!