"No matter what happens here," exclaimed Caspian before the whole crew of the Dawn Treader, "every soul that stands before me has earned their place in the crew of the Dawn Treader."
He stood completely alone, at the top of the stairs as he addressed his men, "together we have traveled far, together we have faced aversity, together we can do it again! So now is not the time to fall to fears, temptations. We are strong. Never give in. Our World, our Narnian lives depend on it. Think of the losts souls we're here to save," Rhince's face dropped as his mind wondered to his wife but a determined look over came him as he listened to his King. Lucy who stood with Gale rubbed her arm soothingly as the girl also thought of her mother.
Dawn stood next to Edmund watching on proudly as Caspian talked and motivated his people.
"Think of Aslan," said Caspian strongly though Dawn could see the defeat in his eyes, "think of Narnia." Caspian began to descend the stairs toward the rest of his crew but faltered as a loud cheer errupted.
"FOR NARNIA!"
This cry rang out again and again and Dawn beamed, her eyes sparkling as Caspian met her gaze across the deck and she could see the hope return in his eyes. He may have motivated his people but they had motivated him.
It wasn't long before the ship completely disappeared into the thick fog that surround Dark Island, leaving them practically blind to their surroundings.
Dawn looked up into the coal black sky and staggered back as an erry green mist trailed down towards them and began to swirl between the sailors.
They were all about to be tested.
"I can't see a thing," spoke Drinian quietly to Caspian. Dawn was now at Caspian's side, to nervous to leave it.
Caspian suddenly heard a voice in his ear, "you are a disgrace of a King." Darting he around he just saw the mist fade. "Call yourself my son and act like a King" this time in his other ear, right behind where Dawn stood was a ghostly figure of his father. As he faded a musical giggle reached his ears and a cold feeling of fingers trailed along his neck, he once again shot around this time was faced a smirking Dawn, though he quickly blocked out whatever she was saying or doing focusing on the real Dawn at his side who, realizing what was happening began to whisper sweet nothings into his ear.
Edmund wasn't having much luck either.
"Edmund. Edmund."
Floating along next to the ship to Edmund's disgust was Jadis, the White Witch, who had wanted nothing more than kill his family.
"Join me, Edmund. Be my King. I'll let you rule," she said floating closer to him.
Edmund tried to hide whatever fear he was feeling, "go away. You're dead."
"You can never kill me," she replied in a sickly sweet voice, "I'll always be alive... in your mind, silly boy."
"NO!" cried Edmund angrily.
She faded away just as Lucy came up behind him, "Edmund, are you all right?"
Edmund gave a jerky nod before muttering a quick, "yeah."
Dawn feeling her brother's distress had fled Caspian's side not even thinking of the consequences. A dull ache began at her temple then grew into a dull pain then into blinding agony! She began to scream but being in such no noise came from her mouth as dozens of voices exploded inside her head!
"Power! It could be ours!"
"Give in!"
"You would never leave again! We could have everything!"
"Revenge!"
"Money!"
"Land!"
"Everything you ever wanted is right here in your head. Right at your feet!"
"Ready for the taking! Take it!"
"Take it!"
"TAKE IT!"
"Your deepest desires, even him."
A haunting green version of Caspian appeared before Dawn and she scrambled back quickly with a small whimper. She shut her eyes tight and forced with all her power into forcing this curse away from her mind, "never."
The ghostly figure of Caspian glared down at her with such hatred before it went up in white flames with a silent cry. Gone for good. Glancing around she noticed no one had seen her fight with the mist and was quite relieved and rushed to find her siblings.
As they sailed further into the Island a deep moaning sound, a strange howl seemed to be coming from inside and getting louder.
Eventually the noise became words, "Keep away!"
"Whose there?" called out Edmund to the mysterious voice.
"We do not fear you!" cried Caspian.
"Nor I you!" The voice boomed back.
Edmund, think fast, retrieved his torch and lit it, point it out into the darkness. After a short few moments he pointed it directly at a rock they were passing where which they voice was sounding, there stood an elderly men in rags with long, straggly grey hair.
"Keep Away!" the man shouted again.
"We will not leave," exclaimed Caspian determinedly.
The elderly men revealed a long, beautiful silver sword and held it high in a threatening way as he glared at the crew of the Dawn Treader, "you will not defeat me!"
"Caspian. Caspian! His sword!" cried Edmund.
"It's one of the seven!" exclaimed Dawn.
Caspian jumped forward, "Lord Rhoop!"
The man, now identified as Lord Rhoop, ran along the rock but Edmund kept the light on him as Caspian stood between Edmund and Dawn, his hand placed gently on Dawn's lower back. The crew of the Dawn Treader all were armed and ready with their crossbows pointed at Lord Rhoop. It took Dawn a minute to notice this but when she did she shuddered back remembering the last time she was in the presence of this many crossbows. She had died that day. It had been a slow, painful death as they had not hit anywhere to give her a quick one and she guessed this was on purpose. She had bled to death on the cold, hard stone of the Telmarine castle, alone and scared. She had yet to tell anyone this. Caspian and Edmund sensed her unease but weren't completely certain as to the cause but either way moved closer to her on either side, as though guarding her.
"You don't own me!" called Lord Rhoop.
"Stand down!" order Caspian and the men immediately dropped their weapons, "get him on board." Caspian couldn't help but notice Dawn relax just the slightest bit when the crossbows were removed form sight for the time being.
Several crewmen stepped forward with grappling hooks to bring them closer to the rock. But Eustace had other ideas and swooped in from behind, trapping the Lord withing his claws and dropping him onto the deck among the sailors and flying off again.
"Be calm, my Lord!" exclaimed Caspian quickly as Lord Rhoop began swing his sword wildly at them.
"Get off me, demon!"
"No, my Lord," spoke Caspian soothingly, stepping forward with a cautious step, "we are not here to hurt you. I am your King. Caspian." Dawn stepped up close to him, curling into his side as they waited for the man to respond to Caspian's declaration.
The Lord stuttered madly before turning around hesitantly, and laid eyes upon Caspian. His eyes grew to twice the size and he cried loudly, "oh, my Lord!" His hand rose up caressing Caspian's face with his fingertips as though unable to believe that he was there.
"You should not have come!" he cried suddenly to their surprise, "there's no way out of here. Quickly! Turn this ship around before it's too late!"
"We have the sword! Let's go!" spoke Edmund, saying what they were all thinking.
"Let's turn her around Drinian!" ordered Caspian, he grabbed Dawn's hand and pulled her with him after Drinian towards the ship's wheel.
"Aye, Aye, your Majesty!"
"Do not think!" cried Lord Rhoop throwing out a hand towards his King who stopped in his tracks and turned to look at the man in confusion. "Do not let it know your fears, it will become them!"
Caspian gazed down at Dawn and pulled her tightly to his side in worry. She returned his stare boldly. She was adjusting to the darkness of the Island, the evil and her magic was constantly battling it inside her and outside. She was stronger for the time being but like Lilliandil had said she couldn't fight it forever. But for now she was winning and she was not feeling as paranoid or as jittery as she had felt earlier. Feeling more herself.
Suddenly a groan filled the deck as Edmund said, "oh no..."
"Edmund! What did you just think of?!" demanded Lucy terrified.
"Ed..?" called Dawn nervously, her brother had quite a wild imagination at times, she just hoped this wasn't one of those times.
"Oh, I'm sorry!" exclaimed Ed as he ran to the railing of the ship. Everyone watched after him in absolute horror.
Dawn ran from Caspian's side to join Edmund to see what he was looking at and what she saw was not good. The crew followed her over at a slower pace, more cautious.
"Ed, why are the rocks movin- oh, Ed, REALLY?! THAT'S what you think of!?"
Before she could say anything else, the ship was rocked sharply to one side and everyone was thrown around the deck.
"Look!" exclaimed Caspian as he got to his feet and pointed out into the water, "what is that?" Edmund helped Lucy to her feet, while Dawn was helped up by Drinian before he rushed her back over to the King and Lord Rhoop.
"It's too late!" yelled Rhoop.
Dawn spotted something light coloured moving out of the corner of her eye and darted around.
"It''s gone under the boat!" someone cried just seconds before Dawn screamed, "GALE!"
Gale had ran away from everyone and had curled into a sack on the other side of the deck at the railing. Everyone gave gasps and yells of shock as they spotted the creature for the first time as it rose out of the water. A giant sea serpent.
"Run! Come here!" cried Dawn as rushed over to Gale and pulled her back to Lucy. Lucy grabbed the girl and held her close while the men unleashed the swords and Dawn readied her staff to fight. Eustace crashed down into the scene, a burst of fire exploding from his mouth right at the monster. And then latching onto the head of the sea serpent with Reepicheep along with him. The creature thrashed around wildly before Reep got flung off but he quickly grabbed onto a rope off the Dawn Treader. Eustace followed quickly and went soaring over the ship but caught himself mid fall and tried t attack again. But this time, the serpent was ready and grabbed him and dove back down under the water with him.
They appeared again a few seconds later with Eustace being tossed around like a rag doll in the mouth of the serpent before being let go and flung off to the side and crashing into a large rock with a thud! The crew of the Dawn Treader watched on helpless to help the dragon who appeared to be done for but Eustace proved them wrong and sent another jet of fire right into the face of the creature which gave a screech of agony before disappearing back under the water.
Lord Rhoop suddenly pushed through the crowd, "back creature!" And he sent the seventh sword flying right at Eustace.
"The sword! The sword!" exclaimed Caspian fearing it to be gone, but even worse, it hit Eustace.
"Eustace!" cried Lucy and Dawn in horror. Eustace gave a mighty roar of pain before he flew off.
"No come back!" shouted Lucy but it was no good.
Lord Rhoop forced his way up to the wheel of the ship, "Fools! Fools! Turn this ship about!"
"Someone stop him!"
The ship swung to one side as Lord Rhoop spun the wheel but Drinian wasted no time and punched the Lord right in the face sending him sprawling to the floor, out cold, retaking control of the ship.
"Crew!" called Drinian, "to your rowing positions! Oars at double speed!"
The men all raced off to do as ordered while Lucy, Dawn and Edmund all gazed off in the direction that Eustace had disappeared into.
Dawn gazed up at the sky, desperate and stretched out her powers as wide as she was able and called in her head, "Aslan, please help us!" At that moment a small beam of light broke through the darkness and a seagull descended down towards them.
Suddenly the Sea Serpent reappeared and shot itself right over the boat and under it again. It was wrapping itself around the ship! Lucy darted after Gale and Caspian followed. Dawn was pulled along by Edmund when they realized their path was blocked. While Lucy put Gale in Dawn's quarters Caspian had ran up to take control of the wheel.
"ED!" shouted Caspian down to where he could see his lover and her twin brother, "we unwind the serpent! Smash him on the rocks!"
"Stir it port!" exclaimed Edmund as he glance around desperately, "I'll keep it at the bow!" He turned to Dawn, "cover me?"
She smiled and together the twins ran off towards the front of the ship to distract the serpent until they reached the rocks. Edmund climbed into the head of ship coming out of the mouth of the dragon while Dawn stood on its' snout, her staff raised as she shot several fire blasts and flaming arrows at the creator, as well as lightning shocks but it only seemed to annoy it.
Edmund lit his torch at it, catching its' attention, "Come on! I'm here! Try and kill me! I'm here!"
"Ed! What are you-!" Dawn didn't get to finish her shout as the sea serpent descended right onto them latching its' mouth right on where Dawn had just been standing.
Caspian and Lucy screamed in shock, calling for the twins. Edmund looked up realizing what had happened and called out, "Dawn! DAWN! Are you there? Where are you?!"
"Somewhere I don't want to be!" came the response. Looking up Edmund spotted Dawn holding on for dear life on the sea serpent's head. Looking up right above him, Ed spotted Dawn's staff and grabbed it. She would need it.
"Hold on!" cried Ed to her.
"What else am I going to do! It's not as fun as it looks up here!" she called back as she reach for her daggers she had attached to her hips. She was very glad for having more than just her staff.
"It doesn't look fun!" called Ed as he tried to think of a way to get her back to him.
"Then it is as fun as it looks!" Edmund couldn't understand how Dawn was able to make jokes while she was stuck on the head of a giant sea monster which he had accidentally conjured and was trying to kill them all.
Managing to get ahold of one of her daggers without loosing her grip and being sent flying Dawn plunged it hilt deep into the serpent's nearest eye, covering her hand in a thick black, oil like blood which made her give a dark grimace. It stank to high heaven. "That's not going to be easy to get out," complained Dawn as it stained her robe's sleeve. In its' pain the serpent leaned forward enough for Dawn to jump back onto the ship, much to her's and the other's relief.
Edmund helped her to her feet on the very top of the dragon's head on the ship as they once again faced the creature.
"We're still here!" cried Dawn.
An arrow shot passed them, sent by none other than Lucy using Susan's bow and arrows, hitting in the serpent directly in the other eye. It was now completely blind.
"Brace your selves!" came from below as the serpent was crushed right up against the rocks. Dawn and Edmund were sent flying into the serpent as they were tossed forward then sent tumbling down onto the deck of the Dawn Treader. The fall being very high causing disorientation and a lot of bruises.
Dawn forced herself up as a lion's roar erupt in her ears, "Eustace" she mumbled.
"What?" groaned Edmund from next to her as he also got back up onto his feet.
She just gave him a weak smile, "nothing." Turning her smiling face up in the direction of the black sky, but her mood quickly fell as the creature began to glow gold.
Caspian reached them and grasped Edmund's shoulder before turning to Dawn and roughly crushing his lips to hers. After a couple of passionate seconds in which Edmund watched on in disgust they pulled apart. Caspian stared down at her in terror, "you are crazy!" Another rough, bruising kiss. "But that's just one of the reasons I love you!"
The turned back to the problem at hand as the reason for the glowing was revealed. The creature opened! It flattened itself out showing millions of sharp, needle like spikes. It hissed down at them threateningly. Caspian realizing what was about to happen gave a yell, "MOVE!" He ran, grabbing Dawn and Edmund in mid jump and together the three crashed back down onto the wooden floor of the deck.
Caspian grabbed a sword just in front of him before darting around quickly and slamming the sword down on one of the spikes, slicing right through it. It then faded into a green mist.
Caspian's hard gaze looked from the mist that was now disappearing to look directly at Dawn, "we can beat this!"
Getting to their feet once again with each other's help, the serpent snapped its' jaws around the mast and was trying to snap and tear the sails.
"We have to get closer!" exclaimed Edmund running away from Caspian and Dawn much to their shock.
"All hands to the main deck!" ordered Drinian.
"Ready the harpoons!" demanded Caspian.
"Edmund!" screamed Dawn in terror as her twin brother launched himself off the boat and grabbed onto a free rope just at the right time and swung himself back and began to climb up the serpent's height.
Caspian grabbed Dawn's shoulder's and spun her around to face him, "Caspian, we need to help Ed!"
He just shook his head, "Edmund can look after himself. I need to ask you something!"
Dawn rolled her eyes in exasperation and pulled the two of them down just in the nick of time as a large piece of wood came flying right at their heads.
"No time like the present!"
"How about a later present!"
"That doesn't make sense!"
"We are fighting a giant sea serpent conjured from my brother's fears! What here does make sense?!"
Caspian pulled her to him and once again crashed his mouth on hers in passionate, love filled kiss.
"Us," he whispered against her lips, "I'm asking you to marry me."
"What?"
Everything around them seemed to disappear and silence fell as though they weren't in the middle of a battle with a magical monster. All there was was him and her.
"Marry me, Dawn. Be my Queen."
"Caspian, I-"
"Your Majesty! The harpoons!" called Tavros as he reached them and handed on to both Caspian and Dawn. Caspian closed his eyes in irritation for a moment as the couple came back to the situation at hand. Neither being able to look at one another.
They all got into position about a dozen of them stood with harpoons facing the beast ready to fire.
"Ready!" called Caspian, "FIRE!"
Dawn threw her harpoon, forcing her magic behind it. Each one hit its' mark yet that was only half the battle.
"Pull it back down!" commanded Caspian.
They all pulled with all their strength as they creature screeched and wrenched itself backwards but they were stronger and were succeeding.
Dawn glanced upwards and saw her brother just barely in the darkness, climbing up the ropes towards the beast.
They tugged the creature down and it crashed against the ropes on which Edmund was clinging onto, "ED!" screamed Dawn. Without a second thought, she let go of her rope and raced off towards her brother. Using a powerful gust of wind, she propelled herself high into the air.
As she moved at top speeds towards her twin, she noticed he had found his balance in the crow's nest but now was facing a sickly green figure, Jadis. Forcing her magic to go faster she grabbed hold of the crow's nest railing and pulled herself up.
"What did you think Edmund?" asked 'Jadis', "That you're a man. I can make you that."
"Ed!" cried Dawn as she pulled hopelessly on his arm but it seemed as though he couldn't hear her.
"I can make you my King!"
Dawn wrenched on Edmund's arm but he still wouldn't budge, "Don't listen to her, Ed! It's just the mist!"
"Just take my hand."
A load crash from below sent Dawn leaning over the edge, "CASPIAN!" She watched in horror as the ropes holding the harpoons that were tied firmly to the ship's side tore the wall from the ship and the power behind the creature sent them all soaring through the air and crashing back down.
She looked back to her twin and Jadis. The mist Jadis, her hand stretched out towards him.
"Just give in."
Dawn began to feel the pounding in her head return, stronger then ever before but she forced herself forward. Her knees began to give way as the pain in her head spike but then, a bright blue light appeared, coming from her and her twin's hand. The sword and staff were glowing blue, just like the seven Lord's swords did when together.
"DO IT!" cried Caspian from below.
Dawn and Edmund shared a look, the mist's power snapped inside of them and lost all hold. Turning away, the twins held out ther weapons towards the Sea Serpent.
"COME ON!" they screamed together.
Dawn glanced at Ed as they waited for the creature to make it's move, "I love you, Ed."
Ed smiled at her before turning back to the serpent, "I love you too, Dawnie."
And with that it shot forward, its' mouth wide to swallow them whole but they were prepared.
Edmund's sword pierced right up through its' head and Dawn's staff sent a giant last of blue flames right down the creature's throat, burning it from the inside out.
"NOO!" cried the mist Jadis behind them as it disintegrated.
Blinding blue lightening shot out of the creature and into the sky as it once again glowed gold on the inside of its' skin. Cascading backwards until it hit the water with a giant smash! Eventually it disappeared from sight, disintegrating also into a green mist.
Beams of pure white light began to break through the dark clouds and black fog, it was over. They had done it.
"The spell," spoke Lucy in awe from near the front of the ship, "it's lifting."
As Edmund and Dawn were climbing back down to the deck, their limbs all shaking from the adrenaline and the cold, wet as they climbed and were careful not to slip. They were completely drained and dead on their feet (and hands as they were climbing down the rope using all four limbs), they heard Lucy calling their names, "EDMUND! DAWN! CASPIAN! Look!"
The black clouds were fading to white and then to nothing, the murky black water below became a glistening crystal blue and just through the light grey fog were several boats. Being up so high, Edmund and Dawn got the full blast of the beauty that now surrounded the ship, as fresh sunlight broke through and flooded the deck and warmed their skin.
As Dawn and Edmund eventually reached the deck, Lucy and Caspian raced to meet them.
"How many times do have I tell you, not to scare me like that!?" cried Caspian with a laugh as he literally swept Dawn off her feet and swung her around to great cheers from the crew.
"At least once more!" They met half way in a sweet kiss, lips moving in perfect sync as they came to terms with the idea that they had won and they were all alright. Caspian's hand caressed her face gently, fearing as though she would break before pulling back and gazing down at her with total adoration, "you are amazing."
"You weren't so bad yourself, your Majesty." He swooped down for another kiss but stopped short, "wait. How is there not a hair out of place on your head?! It looks exactly how as perfect as it did before the battle!"
Dawn smirked at him and pecked his lips cheekily, "magic!"
Caspian just laughed along with Edmund and Lucy before they joined the rest of the crew as they all waited for everything to clear up.
"The Narnians!" cried several sailors.
"It's the Narnians!"
Lucy and Dawn shared a look and glanced over at Rhince and Gale who were searching across the water desperately for any sign of Helaine.
The two girls approached them and Dawn placed a comforting hand on Gale's shoulder and pumped a slight bit of magic into the young girl directly at her eyes. Gale gave a small gasp as she realized she could see clearer and further and then gave a yelled, "MUMMY!" As soon as she jumped from Dawn's touch the spell fell but she had seen what she needed.
"HELAINE!" screamed Rhince just seconds after his daughter also catching sight of his wife.
Gale lept right off the ship into the soft waves below. Rhince jumped in after her and the two swam together towards the boats.
Edmund came up behind his two younger sister and smiled, wrapping his arms around them tightly, as they all shared wide smiles as they watched on as Rhince, Gale and Helaine reunited. Dawn and Lucy placed their heads softly on Edmund's shoulder who gave them both a tight squeeze. Looking over at her sister, Dawn noticed the sad look in Lucy's eyes. Lucy wanted to go home. She missed mum and dad. Dawn could tell that Edmund felt the same, not as much but he did. Dawn couldn't help but feel a little guilty that she didn't miss them near as much as she should, not even Peter or Susan.
"Let's help them on board! Clear the decks!" ordered Caspian proudly and the crew were more than happy to follow his orders.
Caspian came up beside Dawn and slipped his hand into her's, lacing their fingers together with a soft smile as they relished in the pleasant feelings the received from just the simple touch that they other gave.
"We did it!" exclaimed Lucy happily, "I knew we would!"
"Wasn't just us though," said Edmund in a sad tone.
"You mean-" spoke Caspian but they were cut off by a shout of "hey!" from down below in the water.
"Hey! Hey, Dawn! I'm down here!"
Sharing a strange look with the others they all headed over to the port side of the ship and glanced over, "hey Dawn! I'm in the water! Dawn! Lucy!"
"Eustace!" exclaimed Dawn excitedly.
"I'm a boy again! I'm a boy!" he cried his face practically split in two by the size of his grin.
"Eustace!" exclaimed Reepicheep as he appeared out of nowhere like always, "I see your wings have been clipped!" And with a might laugh, he launched himself into the water to join the once dragon now boy.
The four of them standing watching from the Dawn Treader all laughed merrily as Reep began to sing, "Where the skies and water meet, where the waves grow ever sweet! It is sweet! It's sweet!"
Then something ahead of them in the distance caught their attention.
"Look!" cried Reep as he climbed up onto Eustace's shoulder, "Look!"
"We're here," exclaimed Dawn in amazement.
They could just make out white flowers, water lilies bobbing on the surface as a great wave stood frozen in time going for miles and miles and out of sight.
"Aslan's Country," spoke Caspian softly, "we must be close."
"No," said Dawn grabbing all their attention, "this is just the gateway."
"You speak as though you have been there before," wondered Edmund.
Dawn smiled out towards the small strip of sand followed by its' giant wave and following after it's sea of snow white water lilies, "Because I have. It seems so long ago, yet only just more than a year." The other three stared at her in confusion as she smiled nostalgically, but didn't question further.
"Well, we've come this far," spoke Edmund after a short silence.
After a quick change of clothes, together the four of them, along with Eustace and Reepicheep boarded a long boat and with Caspian and Edmund rowing they headed off though the water lilies.
Dawn trailed her fingers through the warm, glass like water, her fingertips licking across the petals of pure white.
"So what was it like? When Aslan changed you back?" asked Edmund.
"No matter how hard I tried, I just couldn't do it myself," explained Eustace.
Dawn smiled, "I know the feeling."
"What?" asked Eustace.
"Last time I was in Narnia, I was killed and Aslan gave me a choice. Pass on into his country or complete a mission for him and once it was complete I could live on. But to complete this mission, leading Lucy to him with her being none the wiser, I had to be in the form of a lioness. I apparently can still turn into it, but I have yet to try. I grew from a cub into a fully grown lion as my task was completed," she explained.
"Wait," spoke up Caspian confused, "you were that lion cub, Aurora?"
"Yes, did I forget to tell you that? Opps!"
"You didn't tell me that bit either!" exclaimed Ed with a laugh.
Dawn just gave a sheepish smile and shared a laugh with Eustace and Lucy, "must have slipped my mind."
"I wondered what happened to that cub, well now I know," exclaimed Reepicheep happily.
"Why don't we let Eustace continue his story," spoke Dawn as she smiled at him expectantly.
He gave a small nodded as everyone waited silently, "then he came towards me. It sort of hurt, but it was a good pain. You know like, when you pull a thorn from your foot. Being a dragon wasn't all bad." He glanced back at Dawn and Lucy with a shy smile, "I think I made a better dragon than I was a boy, really."
He then looked up at both Caspian and Edmund, "I'm so sorry for being such a snob."
"It's okay, Eustace," said Edmund sharing a smirk with Caspian, "you were a pretty good dragon!" Which caused them all to laugh silently and Dawn could practically feel the happiness at being accepted coming from Eustace and the contentment from everyone else. Caspian sent her a blinding smile that she couldn't help but return. She brushed a hand back through her messy brown curls that were kept back from her face by a waterfall braid around the back of her head before settling it back in her lap.
"I think, my friends, we have arrived," breathed Reepicheep, causing all of them to look up.
It was just as Dawn remembered it, the wave constantly there, always moving yet never moving forward. Just as beautiful and as mystical as it had been when she had first seen it. The power radiating from it was heavenly and brought an even bigger smile to Dawn's face as it wrapped around her like a comforting hug or warm blanket, much like the magic of Aslan when she was in his presence.
Caspian lept from the boat, aiding Dawn out as she lifted the skirt of her long brown dress revealing her sandled feet, stepping into the shallow water before together, the two ventured out across the beach. Caspian's face filled with wonder and amazement. Dawn stopped walking as the others continued on, not noticing her pause.
Aslan appeared at her side, the others ignorant to this fact and continued on forward. Aslan and Dawn followed them, Dawn's fingers lost in Aslan's mane as they did so, Aslan leaning into her touch.
Eustace was the first to notice shadows behind them and Dawn's absence and spun around, "Aslan!"
The others shot around at the name and spotted Aslan and Dawn standing side by side looking at them with ever-knowing eyes.
"Welcome, children. You have done very well. Very well indeed," complimented Aslan proudly as he padded around them softly not even making a sound or mark in the sand.
Dawn left his side and joined Caspian.
"You have come far, and now your journey is at its' end."
"Is this your country?" asked Lucy kindly.
Aslan also gazed at the giant wave, "no, my country lies beyond, as I am sure your sister has told you." Lucy blushed slightly and nodded causing Dawn to smile at her, sweetly.
Caspian's eyes trailed upwards at the top of the wave, certain he could make out mountain caps on the other side, "is my father in your country?"
Aslan turned his large golden orbs to the elder of the Kings, "you can only find that out for yourself. But you should know, that if you continue. There is no return."
While the others stared at Caspian waiting for him to respond, Dawn could only stare at her feet.
Caspian didn't glance back and strode forward towards the wave. He placed his hand among the water, holding it there. Edmund's eyes darted down to his younger twin who now watched Caspian intently.
But then Caspian's hand fell back to his side. Dawn's relaxed and fell back to their usual position. She knew what this meant, Caspian was letting it go.
Caspian turned back to them, his eyes dark and glassed over as he walked back to them, right into Dawn's open arms.
"You're not going?" asked Edmund, quite relieved.
"I can't imagine," began to Caspian, kissing Dawn's head, "that my father would be very proud to give up what he died for. I spent to long wanting what was taken from me and not -" he gazed down at Dawn with a soft, loving smile, "what I was given. I was given a Kingdom. People. Love."
Letting go of Dawn he approached Aslan and stated strongly, "I promise to be a better King."
"You already are," replied Aslan.
He then turned to the Pevensies and Scrubb, "Children."
Lucy beamed at him but what Edmund said next made that fall, "I think it was time we went home actually, Lu."
"But I thought you loved it here?" said Lucy. Dawn was also shocked. Edmund wanted to leave, go back to England. She couldn't survive without her twin, could she?
"I do," agreed Edmund, "but I love home, and our family as well. They need us." Edmund looked sadly to Dawn.
Before anymore could be said between them, the sound of someone clearing their throat was heard from below. It was Reepicheep. He hopped forwards to Aslan.
He bowed low before Aslan, "your Eminence, ever since I could remember, have dreamt of seeing your country. I've had many great adventures int his world, but nothing has dampened that yearning. I know that I am hardly worthy, but with your permission, I would lay down my sword for the chance of seeing your country with my own eyes."
Aslan smiled kindly down at the mouse, "my country was made for noble hearts, such as yours. No matter how small their bearers be."
"Your Majesty," exclaimed Reep with another low bow.
"No one could be more deserving," spoke up Caspian.
"Well, I-" Reep tried to counter the compliment but Edmund cut across him.
"It's true," exclaimed Ed giving a small bow of his head to the mouse, which Reep returned.
Then Reep turned to Lucy who was watching on sadly, she approached the little mouse and got down on her knees in front of him with a shy smile, "May I?" she asked.
Reep looked slightly sheepish, "well, I suppose, just this once-eugh!" Lucy pulled him into a tight hug but they could all see he appreciated it. "Goodbye Lucy," he whispered into her shoulder. Once Lucy placed him down on the ground, Reep turned to Dawn to say his goodbyes.
"It has been an honour knowing you," said Dawn as she gave a deep curtsy, holding out the sides of her dress and bowing her head respectively to the mouse, "and I hope the tail comes in handy."
"My tail.. but I.. I thought.." he pointed to Aslan who smiled and shock his head.
"You have the young Queen to thank for your tail," stated Aslan with a small chuckle.
"Thank you ever so much, your Majesty, and I hope you and the King find happiness together," spoke Reep ecstatically.
Dawn blushed and smiled down at him, "May I as well?" This time Reep just nodded as she crouched down but unexpectedly she began to shrink until she was about his size and they shared a proper hug but to the amusement and shock of the others.
Once back to her normal size, Dawn smiled, "I always wanted to use that spell." Causing those around her to chuckle merrily once more.
Eustace moved forward next, his face slightly red and tears leaking from his eyes as he crouched down in front of Reepicheep.
"Don't cry," soothed Reep sadly.
"I don't understand," spoke Eustace, "will I not see you again? Ever?"
Reep stared up at him, "what a magnificent puzzle you are, and a true hero. It has been my honour to fight beside such a brave warrior and a great friend. With one last bow, the little mouse scampered off towards the wave where a little wooden boat lay waiting.
He unsheathed his sword and pierced it into the sand, "won't be needing this anymore."
Suddenly a thought came to Dawn, she turned to Aslan who was already watching her. He sure knew her well. He gave a bow of his head in agreement.
"REEP!" The little mouse turned back to face the Enchanting Queen.
"Yes, your Majesty?"
Dawn raised a hand holding it horizontally and began to make graceful hand movements above it with the other, "if you are not bring your sword with you, bring this one instead."
Everyone watched as her movements collected speed until they froze and she brought her hands together and then pulled them apart vertically very carefully, chanting under her breath as she pulled as though pulling a delicate piece of string. And then there, balance carefully between her fingers was a perfect replica of the seven swords placed at Aslan's table.
She approached Reep and kneeled on one foot, she knighted Reep on one shoulder then the other and handed him the sword, "you are now a member of the Enchanted Guard. And such a member must have a worthy sword." Reep stared at the sword in awe as he carefully took it from her.
As she got back to her feet, "I told you I would see what I could do about getting you one in a smaller size," she laughed. Reep's teary eyes stared up at her, "thank you. Thank you, my Lady. I will never forget this. Another gift from you which I can never repay."
Reepicheep pushed his little boat out onto the water as Dawn returned to her family, wrapping a comforting arm around Eustace as they watched the little mouse disappear over the wave to have even more adventures.
Aslan finally turned back to them and Lucy exclaimed, "this is our last time here, isn't it?"
Aslan nodded sadly, "yes, you have grown up, my Dear One. Just like Peter and Susan."
Lucy ran her fingers through Aslan's mane, "will you come visit us in our World?"
"I shall be watching you always," comforted Aslan as tears trailed down Lucy's face. She tried to wipe them away but they kept coming. She knew it was coming but now that it was here, it was so hard to face.
"How?" asked Lucy desperately.
"In your World, I have another name. You must learn to know me by it. That was the very reason you were brought to Narnia. That knowing me here, for a little – you may know me better there."
"Will we meet again?" asked Lucy trying to contain a sob.
"Yes, Dear One. One day."
With a mighty roar from Aslan, a giant cavern appeared going through wave, their portal home to England.
They all made a circle together with Caspian.
"You are the closest thing I have to family," spoke Caspian glancing to the side he noticed Eustace looking rather shy, "and that includes you Eustace!" He gripped Eustace's shoulder strongly which Eustace returned with a wide smile, "thank you."
He hugged Edmund first, who then walked away unable to watch anymore as tears fell down his cheeks. Then Caspian hugged Lucy tightly. Edmund bowed his head to Aslan unable to find any words to say after which Lucy threw herself onto the Lion with a giant hug.
"Will I come back?" asked Eustace as he stopped short from following Edmund and Lucy towards the cavern.
"Narnia, may still have need of you," spoke Aslan, making the boy smile.
Then Aslan looked to Dawn was stuck in the middle, "I believe you have a choice, my Little One."
"What?" asked Lucy stepping forward.
"To stay," spoke Dawn not meeting anyone's' eyes, "or to go."
Dawn knew without a doubt this would be the most difficult decision of her life. To remain with Caspian in Narnia or return with her family and die just after she turns eighteen, not that any of the knew this.
It was time to make a choice and no one could make it for her.
"Dawn. Dawn! Wake up!"
"We're leaving today, get up and finishing packing."
Dawn opened her sleepy eyes and took in her surroundings and saw a blurry figure kneeling next to her bed, "wake up! Since you when are you this lazy!"
Dawn sighed, it had been such a good dream.
"Do you think mum and Dad missed us?" asked Lucy as she folded her clothes and placed them in her case. They were joining their family at last.
"I don't know, Lu." Lucy sighed sadly and left the room most likely going to the bathroom or to check on breakfast.
Dawn fell back on her bed, her mind completely conflicted had she made the right choice.
