"I see your mission was successful, your Majesty," complimented Aslan with a low nod of his great head, "well done."
Caspian wrapped his arms tighter around Dawn who had completely collapsed into unconsciousness, "thank you, Aslan. Their world was very... alien, I suppose."
Aslan gave a deep chuckle, "that is one word for it."
Caspian kneeled down and placed Dawn on the soft sand at his feet, Edmund rushing to sit next to her. Ed caressed his twin's forehead with the back of his hand, it was ice cold, which completely conflicted with the warm breeze that blew across the strip of beach. It was as though all the life had been striped from her, skin white as snow, lips almost blue and her pulse almost none exisitent. He remembered the first time she turned 18 during the Golden Age, she had been gravely ill and none had understood why and everyone feared the worst until Aslan appeared to them and within a few hours she was just how she had been before.
"I am pleased to see you have returned, your majesty," greeted the Lion.
Edmund turned his attention to Aslan for the first time since he arrived only moments ago, "I couldn't live without Dawn in my life. After what happened at the Telmarine Castle those few years ago, I know I wouldn't be able. It's like being broken or being split in two, part of you is just gone. It's unbearable."
"I always wanted a brother," said Caspian softly with a smirk down at Edmund who returned his smile.
Aslan chuckled merrily, "and now you have one."
"Will she sleep for long?" asked Edmund as he studied his twin sister closely, she was ever so slowly regaining her colour, a slight pinkness rising to her cheeks, the rise and fall of her chest becoming stronger, more steady.
Caspian smiled down at her, his eyes alight with worry and placed his hand on her cheek, relieved to feel warmth returning to it as he caressed the soft skin.
"Not much longer," replied Aslan as he too settled down beside Dawn, understanding that this transition was not an easy one for her, with the process being so much shorter and involving so much more power it must be utter agonny for her, yet her body showed no signs of it. All trapped inside her mind.
Caspian and Edmund gave a shout and flopped backwards onto their backs onto the sand in shock as Dawn's back arched dangerously and an ear spliting screach filled the air around them.
Caspian and Edmund covered their ears. It sounded as though her vocal chords were being ripped out and if they weren't they would be once the noise ended. Her eyes were wide. Wider than should be possible. And they were bright gold, like how they used to be when she was younger and when she used really powerful magic.
Aslan gave a sorrowful sigh and nussled his large head against the Enchantress in hope of soothing her pain.
Her body fell back to the ground, her eyes half closed and it appeared as though she wasn't breathing until... a golden mist came from her lips. It was over.
"There," spoke Aslan, "now she just requires rest. She will be weak for some time."
Edmund chuckled darkly, "maybe so, but that has never stopped her before. She normally keeps going until she literally drops, thinking it best not to worry anyone."
"Sounds like her," remarked Caspian fondly as he returned to running his fingers through his love's hair. He was greatly pleased when she instinctly leaned into his touch, giving a sigh of relief along with Edmund.
The sand around Edmund and Dawn rose and gathered around them like a cloak before shifting and become fabric, bright red in colour.
"Caspian refrained from informing his crew of his quest and I believe he wishes for you both to be a surprise," explained Aslan as the two young men studied the cloaks in awe.
"Yes of course," responded Caspian with a sly smile, "anything to give my crew a little shock."
"During the Golden Age when Dawn and I used to sail regularly," began Edmund, "we would always play pranks on our crew. They would do the same to us, of course. But it was always great when we would have new crew members who would have this look on their face after them, they never saw them coming. A lot of the time they would be laughed at or Dawn or I would give out to them only to stop half way because we couldn't handle it and burst out laughing." He laughed cheerfully at the fond memories of their time of which felt like hundreds of years ago, even though technically it was. Just not for them.
The two men and the Lion continued to converse for another hour or so. They moved around, both of them propped up against Aslan's warm side with Dawn settled in Caspian's lap. Their conversation was abruptly halted as Dawn began to toss violently around in Caspian's arms.
"She won't wake!" exclaimed Caspian in terror.
"What do we do?" asked a panicked Edmund.
"Try singing to her, your majesty," advised Aslan.
Edmund nodded, "Dawn told me how much she loved your voice, when you would read to her or sing with her. She told me it calmed like nothing else."
Caspian gripped the thrashing girl firmly and silence fell across the beach as Caspian opened his mouth and sang softly, his words seeming to carry across the water all the way out to the Dawn Treader which waited patiently for them just within sight.
"For one so small, you seem so strong,
my arms will hold you, keep you safe and warm.
This bond between us, can't be broken,
I will be here, don't you cry."
His song had immediate effect as Dawn curled into him once again, her breathing steady, her limbs relaxed in his hold but Caspian continued, seeing the affect he had on her pleased him.
"Cause you'll be in my heart,
yes, you'll be in my heart.
From this day on, now and forever more.
You'll be in my heart,
no matter what they say,
you'll be in my heart.
Always."
"Always"
But it wasn't Caspian that sang the last word.
"Dawn!" exclaimed Edmund as he leaned over the now conscious girl, "how do you feel?"
"Tired," she replied.
With the help of Aslan and the two men, Dawn was up on her feet. She barely gave her new cloak a glance before she threw her arms around Aslan, "I've missed you."
"As I have missed you, my Little Lioness."
As Dawn pulled away Aslan looked to Caspian who once again wrapped her in his arms, as though he feared she would disappear again.
Aslan gave a sad sigh, "I suppose I will have to hand you off to another man soon, to be under his protection and have little lions of your own."
"I know the feeling," agreed Edmund as he smiled sadly yet fondly at his younger twin sister and her fiancé.
"Even when I am old and grey, I will look to you both for guidance and love, for you both have a special place in my heart."
"Wow, room in there next to Caspian, is there?" joked Edmund, "I know he takes up most of it."
Dawn laughed and gave her brother a light shove which would have been harder but her arms still felt incredibly heavy.
"I believe you have a ship to get too, what has been only a couple of hours for you, has been over three days for them, they must be worrying for the well being of their King," exclaimed Aslan.
"Three days?" marveled Caspian as he too gazed across the water at the ship.
"And none of them know besides Drinian?" wondered Dawn, remembering him telling her earlier.
"Yes, I wanted it to be a surprise for them but I wouldn't be shocked if they guessed," chuckled Caspian. Dawn layed her head on Caspian's chest and sighed, breathing in his scent and smell of the Narnian ocean.
It was good to be back.
Caspian rowed the longboat back through the snow white water lilies, which Dawn and Edmund were over-joyed to be seeing again. Caspian mostly kept his concentration on his task but every so often his eyes would rise to meet with Dawn's which he could just make out from under her red hood. He couldn't help but notice how the red seemed to contrast so much with her dark hair and pale skin in an amazing way, making her even more seductive and enticing. He wanted her all the more. Just when he thought he couldn't love her any more than he already did, he really did have to stop that. He would just have to accept that he was going to love her more and more as their lives together continued.
He couldn't even imagine how much love he would feel for her when they finally are married and have children of their own.
Edmund's hand was tightly clamped around Dawn's and Caspian quickly realized that they must be silently communicating with each other. He was never quite sure if they could do that because of Dawn's magic or their twin connection. Maybe it was a bit of both, they were twins after all so Edmund must have a bit more magic in him than the rest of their siblings.
"What do you think is going to happen now that we're back?"
"I'm not sure Dawnie. We'll return to the new Cair Paravell with Caspian, you'll get.. get married. Start a family and rule Narnia again."
"But what will you do?" she inquired, "I know you won't want to remain cooped up inside the castle with us, I know you. You can't sit still for long, you have to explore."
"You're right."
"I always am!"
Edmund smirked a her from under his hood and nudged her with his shoulder causing her to give a loud giggle and she then gasped as she boat rocked a little causing them both to laugh quietly to each other.
"It's been so long since we ruled, Ed. Things are bound to be different, there must be loads for you to discover, I might join you now and then if I can. If you'll let me."
Edmund wrapped an arm around his sister's shoulders kissing her temple sweetly as she cuddled into his side like she normally did. It had been so long since they had spent time together, just the two of them and Edmund vowed to make more moments like this but he knew it would be difficult, what with her getting married and all. But, as she was marrying Caspian he saw no problems. He shared a small smile with Caspian, who had been watching over them with a fond smile.
Edmund couldn't help but watch Caspian when he was around Dawn, at first it was because he wasn't sure of them together, then he was angry at him for stealing from him but now... now he watched him just to see that special glint in his eye as he watched her. The look of pure love and adoration that always seemed to be on his face when he was with her or even when she was brought up in conversation. It made him feel so confident that he had done his duty as a brother to find the right man to take over the role as protector for his twin sister.
Turning his attention back to Dawn as they neared the giant ship which hadn't changed at all except that it was now back in perfect condition, shouts of 'THE KING APPROACHES!' and 'READY FOR BOARDING' were heard as Edmund responded, " I wouldn't have it any other way."
"Your majesty! Are you all right?" it was Drinian that spoke and I was overjoyed to hear him again.
"Very much so, Drinian. Never better in my whole life!" exclaimed Caspian as he climbed out of the longboat and onto the ship now that it had been lifted up onto the deck.
Edmund, his face hidden by the Narnian red cloak, stepped out of the boat with ease and then together the two of them turned to aid me out. I gripped their hands lightly and stepped gracefully onto the deck, the wood feeling very smooth and cool under my feet.
"Your majesty? Who are these people?"
I was quite surprised to see Rhince there among them and he had been the one to speak. He looked much more refreshed and well nurished, also his clothing was better quality. His living must have improved since our leaving, I couldn't help but wonder about Gale and Rhince's wife, Helena.
"They are... guests," replied Caspian smoothly sharing a knowing smile with Drinian, "and they should be treated with the same respect you show me. For now they shall remain un-named."
There seemed to be a wave of uncertainty and doubt spread through the crew and I couldn't blame them one bit. With a glance from Ed, I knew he felt the exact same.
All the crew could make out was our figures, none of our faces, so they knew I was female obviously and Ed was male but they could not recognise us. That would ruin the surprise.
Caspian immediately began to play the role of King and 'introduced' us to Drinian, "this is Captain Drinian of this glorious vessel, the Dawn Treader."
"So named after the High Queen Dawn the Enchanting, herself!" called a voice from the crowd much to everyone's amusement and Caspian's slight embarressment. It was obvious this was something he would never live down among his crew but for some reason I rather enjoyed that.
"If you would both follow me," inquired Drinian to us with a deep bow, "I will show you to where you will sleep. It is quite a long journey to the mainland and I am sure you wish to rest."
I gave a sweeping nod so that all could see yet was careful for my hood not to slip and reveal my face but it must have been enchanted as it did not move an inch.
As Edmund and I followed Drinian and Caspian remained on deck to (vaguely) answer any of the crew's questions. I heard mutterings of a conversation as we passed.
"where did they come from?"
"Weren't we stopped at the entrance to Aslan's country?"
"Do you think they came from Aslan's country?"
"They couldn't be!"
"No!"
"But they must! What else explains it!"
"Your mad! Only Aslan can leave Aslan's country once it has been entered."
"He's right! It's a one way trip."
"Maybe their special."
"Maybe... maybe they're magic.."
"Like Queen Dawn?"
"Who knows."
"Well, I think.."
At that point I stopped listening and continued on with Drinian and Edmund towards the quarters I stayed in last time.
They were in mid conversation, I had missed the beginning in place of listening to the sailors' gossip.
"-then on arrival the people were overjoyed, though it took the King several days after the end of the journey to return to his usual self. I believe he felt.. alone. It is.. was.. hard for him when you .. left. I'm sure you understand."
"Well, let's hope we never leave again. I think we're here for good now. Especially Dawn... Dawnie?"
"What?" I was startled by Edmund's calling of my name, I had only really been half listening, being more distracted by the wonderful feeling of magic flowing through my veins at full force once again, seeming to be coming at me from all angles and entering everyone of my cells. It had been so long since I felt so powerful, the closest in comparrison would be after we were captured by those slavers a year ago and I had practically lost control.
"You are very quiet, my Lady," explained Drinian as he glanced concernedly over his shoulder, "are you still weak? Your brother tells me that your.. um.. magical transfer.. tires you greatly and is a painful experience." I almost laughed at his uncertainty on what to call what happened to me but his words fit it quite well so I did not remark on it.
"Yes, it is quite... difficult, I suppose."
Edmund stopped walking as Drinian opened the door to Caspian's quarters and motioned us inside. We hurried into the room to continue talking more securely.
"Dawnie, you never did tell me what it actually is like. You always changed the subject or distracted me or whoever was asking."
"I didn't want you to worry, it wasn't like it could be ignored or stopped," I explained taking his hand in mine and giving it a tight squeeze. Edmund was always so protective of me. Apperantly according to our mother and father Edmund had been like that with me since we started walking and talking, I was his little sister that he had to protect.
"Drinian," spoke Edmund, "would you please leave us to speak in private?"
"Of course, my Lord."
The sound of the door closing behind Drinian signalled his leaving and their was a short silence thereafter.
"I believe now is a good a time as any."
I had a feeling this time round, there was no way I was getting out of explaining it. I didn't want him to know. It was bad enough he had seen me go through it. Not just once but twice now. He witnessed the physical pain I went through at the end of the transition but for the rest of it, I appear to be in sleep, or so I am told. But I am awake for all of it. The feeling as though my brain is being squashed, turned inside out, ripped and torn to shreds and then being put back together again in the wrong order. All of it absolutely excrushiating and seeming to last years on end.
I slumped onto the bed, sinking into it's soft blankets letting the smell of Caspian surround me. I found it incredibly relaxing.
For the next twenty or so minutes I explained to Edmund the best way I could. By the end I could tell he was quite upset and angry. Not that big an observation as he was pacing back and forth muttering under his breath harshly about how I hadn't told him sooner.
"Oh would you calm down! It's not a big deal! It's over and done with, move on, Ed!"
"Move.. Move on! I can't just move on, Dawn!" cried Edmund in exasperation.
Just at that moment the room door's opened up and a figure slipped in. I heaved a sigh of relief as Caspian smiled at me, making his way over in three large strids before settling next to me on the bed.
"What's with Ed?" he asked as he also watched Edmund who had returned to pacing only now he was slightly louder in his words and was making wild hand movements. It's a good thing Edmund didn't have magic like I did because if he did, right now everything would probably be up in flames right now going by the amount of anger and frustration coming off of him.
"I told him about the magic transition. How it is for me and he wasn't happy that it took me this long to tell him," I stated letting my chin fall onto my hand which was propped up on my knee.
"Ed," called Caspian calmly, "Dawn is safe now. With us. Where she can rest and heal and grow stronger. She is safe and no longer in pain. That is what matters."
Ed gave a huge sigh, his shoulders heaving as he did before giving a reluctant nod, "fine. You're right. Just.. being an older brother, I guess."
"That's okay, just tone it down a little bit next time. I can look after myself."
My words were met by the stares from both men, straight faces with raised eyebrows.
"Most of the time."
I lay wide awake in the large bed. For some reason it felt too big. Too empty.
I was only alerted to the presence of another in the dark room was when they stubbed their toe on something and gave a small cry.
I shot up and as I did all the candles in the room reacted and lit themselves with a red flourish. My hand was outstretched ready to cast, not even considering that an intruder or assassin would be more careful than to stubb their toe or given any sign that they were there but I was tired and couldn't think straight yet.
"Caspian! Don't do that!"
The handsome, young King, sat down next to me, placing a hand on my cheek, caressing it softly. He hadn't stayed long earlier having to return back onto the deck. So I had gotten to see very little of him since our return a few hours ago.
"Did I frighten you?"
"Just a little," I replied softly.
"I apologise that wasn't my intention. I just did not wish to wake you. I came to check on you."
I sighed and leaned forward placing my head on his shoulder, his hands immediately took position at the base of my neck and on my back, rubbing soothingly.
"You need not have bothered, I can not sleep anyway."
"Why ever so, my love?" he inquired as he ran his fingers through my hair. His voice caused slight vibrations through his body which I felt from my position against him.
"I don't know. I guess it's just weird being back. Still taking it all in."
"Well I will leave you to your rest. Hopefully sleep will not avoid you for long, you need your rest."
Caspian stood to leave but before he could get far I had thrown myself forward and grabbed his wrist, "please don't leave. Stay. With me."
"I- I am not- It is not.. alright, as you wish."
He slipped under the covers as the candles slowly went out leaving us once again in darkness.
"I know it is not appropriate for us to share a bed yet but-"
Caspian cut me off, "we will not do anything we shouldn't and anyway, when we reach the mainland we will become man and wife. We should not have to worry about such things as sharing a bed. You trust me?"
"Always."
"Then there is no need to worry. I only hesitated as people may question your honour."
"Question the honour of the High Queen of the Golden Age? Unlikely."
Caspian's deep, warm chuckle filled the dark room, "my conclusion exactly. Sleep now, my love, sleep. I will be here when you wake."
Caspian's soothing words and his strong arms wrapped around me, my head on his chest was all I needed to fall into a deep sleep. But as soon as the darkness enveloped my mind once again, a dream formed. One so beautiful I could only hope it came true.
A baby's cry pierced the room and as though on instinct I moved across the large bedroom to where a beautifully carved rocking crib sat. It was made of a dark wood with many Narnian depictions carved into it with a deep red pillowed inside. Laying on top was a small baby, looking only a couple months old. It was underneath a red blanket which was being tossed around by the child's flayling hands and feet.
"Shh. Shh, my little one," I soothed. I had spoken automatically, not even thinking about it, the words just thumbled from my mouth. Removing the soft blanket I lifted the small baby into my arms. It was a boy, dark strands of hair similar to my own was growing from his head aswell as he had my blue eyes. But I could easily see Caspian in him, his skin being slightly darker than mine but he also reminded me of Edmund a little bit.
I pressed the small child to my chest and rocked him back and forth, singing to him softly a wordless tune. This seemed to be just what he wanted as he relaxed into my warmth and gave off a few small adorable baby gurggles before falling back into a light sleep.
The room I was in was very large. A giant poster bed was built into one wall, also with Narnian depictions carved into it. There was a large seating area surrounding a blazing fire, a desk opposite the fire against the wall, large doors covered by curtains which must lead out to a balcony and finally a beautiful grand piano sat in the corner.
I was dressed in a beautiful floor-length gown, the ring Caspian had given me was also on my finger. The rest of my jewellery matching the ring perfectly.
Two large doors off to the side opened and in stepped a slightly older looking Caspian, dressed in blue and silver, half of his hair pulled back with a leather tie.
"My love," called Caspian as he quickly made his way over, wrapping his arms around me before placing his chin on my shoulder and placing a soft kiss on my temple.
"You should be resting," he advised, "the birth was hard for you. It will be a little longer before you are at full strength again."
"I feel fine Caspian. It's been almost two months and you know how quickly I heal," I replied as I continued to rock our baby, Caspian pressed against my back moved with us, his low chuckle sounding like music caused the child in my arms to rasie his head slight his eyes half open, his mouth open in a small 'o'.
"He wants his father," I explained, turning out of Caspian's arms and carefully handing him the boy.
"Hello, Rillian," greeted Caspian with a wide smile. Immediately at his father's words the child, Rillian, was wide awake. His wailing cries from only minutes ago were long gone from his mind as a huge, beaming smile lit up his face and he reached towards his father. He gave Caspian's hair a small tug much to my amusement. I continued to watch as Caspian tried to get Rillian to let go but he had a tight grib of the lock of brown hair in his tiny fist.
"Rillian," I called sweetly, "come to Mummy."
The baby let go of his father's hair and turned as much as he could in his position, reaching out towards me with his little chubby arms, leaning his weight forward.
"One word and he goes running back to his mother," remarked Caspian with a smirk as he handed our son back to me, "definitely my son. If I were him, I'd choose you over me too."
"He is a child and I am his mother, I bore him but you also helped create him, we are both a part of him."
"And any future children we may have," exclaimed Caspian happily as he led us over to a large cushioned couch.
As we sat down I turned to my husband, "how many children do you expect us to have?"
"Many."
"Many?"
"Dozens!"
"Oh, Caspian..."
"I love you."
"I love you too, my King."
I opened my eyes with a small gasp.
"Dawn? Are you alright? Did you have a bad dream?" The voice came from above me, looking up I was met with Caspian's deep brown eyes gazing down at me in worry.
"I'm fine. It was a wonderful dream."
He pressed a gentle kiss to my head before tightening his hold on me, "go back to sleep. You can tell me all about it in the morning."
I redressed in my silver gown and red cloak the next morning. Edmund joined me just after I got ready in Caspian's quarters. Thankfully Caspian had left by then but going by the sly look Ed gave me, he knew Caspian had also been here throughout the night. But Ed knew me, I wouldn't be intimate with Caspian until after our wedding.
"Ready to give these crewmen the shock of their lives?!" exclaimed an excited Edmund as soon as he entered.
I laughed at his giddy attitude, pleased to see him being his old self again, the him only Narnia could bring out.
"Of course. It's been too long since we have pranked any of our sailors," I replied spining around on the chair I had been sitting in while brushing my hair, a smirk spread across my face.
Edmund threw on his cloak and pulled up the hood while I did the same. Together we then left the room and headed up towards the deck where nearly all the men were at work. A few, those who had been working the night shift, were sleeping further into the ship.
My arm was hooked through my twin's as we practically skipped up onto the top deck where Caspian and Drinian were directing the crew members. I sent Edmund a look and a wink as I nudged my head in Caspian's direction. Ed chuckled deeply, "go for it. But not too much."
"Oh, let me have some fun with this."
"Whatever happened to that sweet little innocent girl that used to run around with dryads and unicorns?" wondered Ed, dramatically strocking his fake beard causing me to giggle.
"I still do that. Or atleast I will once we return to the mainland. I'll always be your little sister, Ed." I kissed his cheek quickly before gracefully as possible made my way up towards Caspian and Drinian.
"-if the wind remains at this strength, we shall return to the royal harbour within three weeks." spoke Drinian to Caspian.
"Good, let us hope that nothing crosses our paths on this journey," remarked Caspian.
I had just reached them at this point, knowing very well that all the men within sight had their eyes on me next to their King, "do not jinx us now your majesty."
Caspian and Drinian obviously hadn't noticed my approach as they shot around at my words, a look of surprise on their faces.
"My Lady, I hope you slept well," smirked the Captain.
I gave a small chuckle in amusment while Caspian tried and failed to hide his sheepish look.
"How are you on this morn', My Lady?" asked Caspian polietly.
I stepped closer to him which caused his eyes to widen immensley, "Very well, my King."
"Oh, really?"
It seemed Caspian was enjoying this as much as I was, if not more. I would have to play it up a bit more.
"Really." I placed my hand on the back of his neck and pulled him down, crashing his lips to mine in a passionate, hungry kiss.
A loud snort was heard from Drinian aswell as footsteps moving away from us.
Caspian's hands were gripping my waist put whenever he tried to move them my cloak got in the way.
"Stupid thing!" cried Caspian finally wrenching the piece of clothing from around my neck, "much better. Where were we?"
Caspian went to kiss me again when a gruff voice speak from nearby, "your majesty?"
"What Tavros?!" growled Caspian much to my shock. For some reason it made me feel quite warm and impressed.
"What of her majesty, Queen Dawn?" this sounded like Rhince. My back was to the crew so they had no idea who I was.
I gave a dramatic sigh before spinning around to face the men, "what about me?"
"Someone mention my sister?" spoke Edmund wandering up casually as though we had never left the left the ship in the first place.
The celebrations went on all day and night for at least a week. I had danced with everyone from Caspian to Tavros and Edmund to Peepicheep, Reepicheep's second in command now his replacement.
I sat silently in Caspian and my quarters, my staff in hand.
"My lady."
During my time of silent contemplation Drinian had entered the room. I was worried about returning to the mainland. What had changed? What hadn't? It had been over four years since I had been there last. I knew that four years was nothing compared to over a thousand years gap from when we first left but it still worried me. Would my people be happy that Edmund and I were back? Could I even still call them 'my people'? Was Ed having these feelings and thoughts aswell or was I just being foolish? I know if I said this to Caspian he would think I was juts nervous about returning or about the wedding that was bound to happen soon.
Speaking of my up and coming wedding. That was most likely going to be happening within the next week at the most. Of course I was nervous about that, who wouldn't be. But I loved Caspian and I knew I wanted to marry him and that I was ready. Technically I had had over thirty years to get ready and live as an unmarried woman but during the time I had had with Caspian were easily the happiest of my life and this only fueled my belief that marrying Caspian was the best thing to do.
"What is it, Drinian?"
"We are about to arrive in the royal harbour. His majesty, King Caspian and your brother, Lord Edmund said it was best to retrieve you."
"Yo didn't have to do that, Drinian," I remarked as I leaned my staff against the table and threw my cloak around my shoulders before once again gripping the wood strongly, my nerves showing in my tight grip, "I am sure you had much more important things to do then fetching me."
"I volunteered, My Lady," smiled Drinian as he offered me his arm.
I took his arm gently as he led me from the room which would be later be unpacked once we reached the harbour.
"You have no need to be nervous, my Lady."
I turned to look at him in surprise, "how could you tell?"
He chuckled lowly as he placed a comforting hand over my hand which was gripping his arm in a near death grip, "you don't hide it very well."
"Oh."
"Your people love you. They love Caspian. Together, you and Caspian are loved by all and you make a powerful team. Do not doubt that, My lady."
"Thank you, Drinian. I am glad Caspian has found a trustworthy friend in you."
"As am I, Milady, as am I."
"Drinian tells me we are almost there." I curled in Caspian's side who smiled down at me before kissing me softly on the head.
"Yes, sis. Only about twenty minutes to go, then we're home."
"Are we docked?"
"Yes, we are and it seems all of Narnia is here to welcome us back."
"Lets go greet the people."
Caspian took me by the hand and Edmund followed at our heels as we approached the gangplank.
"Are you ready?"
"Yes?"
"Me either." We both laughed together as we descended towards the giant crowd who were all waving and cheering for the King and his men as though they were returning from some great battle victorious. Drinian hadn't been joking when he said it looked as though all of Narnia had turned out to greet us.
"My people!" called Caspian strongly, "today, is a great day. The start of new time in Narnia, a second Golden Age." There was a loud cheer before the crowd once again fell silent.
"We have been waiting patiently for a sign from Aslan for this time to begin. On our journey to his Island once again, we were given this sign. This gift. Or should I say gifts. To mark the beginning of this new Age, I shall be wed." There was many loud mutterings running through the crowd at these loud words.
"With those words may I ask you to join me in welcoming back to Narnia, High King Edmund the Just, of the original Golden Age!" An enormous cheer broke out as Edmund stepped forward for all to see and waved at the crowd.
"And his twin sister and my beautiful, soon-to-be wife, High Queen Dawn the Enchanting."
All of Narnia screamed themselves horse. It felt good to be home.
"It is almost time, my Lady," spoke the maid.
"Thank you, I just need another minute," I replied as I looked into the mirror once more as I nervously wrang my hands together and smoothed down the long skirt. The beautiful white gown was strapless, with gorgeous and elegant detailing and beading along the top and down the middle of the bodice and along the bottom of the bodice. The skirt billowed out around me in waves of silk before fading into flowery lace an a crocheted under skirt. The back trailed out behind me for a few feet which was apperantly neccessary for the royal occasion. I had on my blue engagment ring and lovely lace slips on my hands and a chained circlit around my head while my hair feel in soft waves down my back.
I looked beautiful. There was no denying it. A woman should look her best on her wedding day.
"Knock, knock. Can I come in?"
I gave a small, nervous smile before turning my head to look at the large doors that joined my temporary chambers to the corridor, "of course, Ed."
My brother was dressed in beautiful red and gold robes with Peter's old crown placed on his head. He would be giving me away.
"You look amazing, Dawnie. Mum and Dad would be so proud of you."
I blushed, "thanks, Ed. That makes me feel a little better."
"Pre-wedding nerves?" wondered Edmund cheekily.
"I'm told they're normal," I said as I walked over and collapsed back on my bed.
"I'm sure they'll disappear once you see Caspian, that's what Mum always said," remarked Ed as he sat next to me on the bed, wrapping his arm around me sweetly, kissing my temple reassuringly.
"How are you not nervous?! I'm practically jumping out of my skin!"
My twin brother gave a loud laugh, "I don't know! I thought I would be but I am not. I trust Caspian. With my life. With our kingdom. And most importantly, with you."
"I love you Ed, even when you were a bratty little kid, who threw tantrums every five minutes."
"Shut up! I wasn't that bad. I guess I love you too."
"You so were!"
"Lets go! I think you are just about fashionably late now."
The walk through the deathly silent and empty halls seemed to last hours and each step seemed to echo off the walls in a menacing manner. All the paintings and carvings in the wall seemed to watch us as we passed, their eyes burrowing into us. It was strange how near exact the castle was to the old one. It was like being home again in our old castle by the sea.
Finally we reached the giant entry hall that led to the throne room where Caspian and I were to be wed and also to a large balcony that overlooked the front of the castle where those who didn't fit in the throne room were waiting for Caspian and I to greet them from the balcony.
Lined up along the walls towards the Throne Room doors were many of the main servants of the castle. The giant hall was beautifully decorated.
"Everyone is waiting for you inside, My Lady," explained the head servant of the Castle, Gregory. A kind near elderly man, yet with as much energy to run circles around the strongest of knights. He had been very welcoming and helpful. His own granddaughter was my handmaiden and his daughter the head cook.
"Thank you, Gregory."
One by one the servants wished me luck before filling into the hall to stand at the sides, the doors were now left wide open. I caught about half a second of loud chatter before a sudden hush fell over the hall just out of my sight.
"Ready?"
"I guess, I just wish Lucy was here."
"Me too."
There was a short pause as we thought about her sister. If she was here she would kill me about having my wedding without her here.
"Me too."
"LUCY!?"
"Hello! I can't believe you were going to get married without me here!"
Took the words right out of my mouth, I thought with a laugh.
"Well you're here now," remarked Ed with a shrug.
"How did you get here?" I exclaimed happily hugging her tightly it felt like we had been apart for years.
"Aslan, of course. It wasn't the same without you. I'm sorry I forgot, I guess Susan's chatter finally got to me," spoke Lucy sadly.
"It's alright. It's in the past."
"Can I be your maid of honour?!" exclaimed Lucy happily, bouncing up and down excitedly.
"Not dressed like that!" I laughed, looking down at her British attire, "colour suggestions?"
Lucy glanced at Edmund clothes before confidently reply, "Red and gold."
With a wave of my hand, Lucy was now dressed in a beautiful red velvet gown with a simply gold belt. It was in the style of how I normally dressed. Her hair was slightly braided and their were red roses laced into her hair like a crown. On her feet were golden and red jeweled heels and a golden ring and necklace to finish the look.
"An outfit fit for a Queen," I commented looking at my dazzingly little sister.
"I need some flowers!" cried Lucy desprately looking around.
I giggled, "Lucy." She turned to face me and a look of realization on her face. With another wave of my hand, a stunning bouquet of lilies appeared in her hand, draping down her front elegantly.
"I think we're ready now, we're late enough as it is!" exclaimed Edmund, "who knew I would be the one pushing you guys to get going."
Lucy and I giggled to each other like school girls.
"See you out there," smiled Lucy as music began to play on a powerful violin*.
"See ya!"
Lucy disappeared out of sight as the sound of hundreds of people got to their feet reached our ears.
"I love you Ed."
"I love you too, Dawnie. I guess I just have to move over and allow Caspian to be your number one man. Guess I'll have to settle for number two."
"Never. And anyway, there's always Liliandil..." I said with a smirk as I hooked my arm through his as the music began to pick up, signaling our time to enter.
"You little minx!"
"Just don't let me trip."
"No promises!"
"... Edmund!"
The walk up the asile was the easiest walk of life. That first step, when my eyes landed on Caspian, all my nerves just disappeared in an instent. I was going to spend the rest of my long life with him, and I had never been happier. His smile was practically blinding as he stood there with his crown on his head, wearing gleaming silver robes, fit for a King.
Next to Caspian, stood the true King of Narnia himself, The Great Lion Aslan.
We seemed to reach the top of the aisle in no time at all and with a kiss on the cheek Edmund handed me off to Caspian and left to stand behind Caspian as his best man. Lucy was sitting next to Trumpkin and Trufflehunter in the front row.
"We are gathered here today," began Aslan as everyone once again took their seats except for Caspian and I who kneeled side by side in front of Aslan, "to witness the marriage of King Caspian the Contradiction and Queen Dawn the Enchanting."
"I have know Dawn for many a year. I see her as my own daughter and I hope she returns this feelings." I smiled up at the Lion and nodded.
"She is a kind, gentle, intelligent and powerful woman and she needed a man just as kind, just as gentle and just as intelligent. Caspian is the only man I could ever consider for her, something I'm sure the bride's brother agrees with," he chuckled merrily, "Caspian is a strong willed, strong minded and a wonderful man and King and I am proud to have left him in charge of my kingdom. Let us begin."
Caspian helped me to my feet gently, taking my hands while Edmund came forward with a strip of red ribbon and Lucy joined him a moment with a similar gold ribbon. Ed stood next to Caspian with Lucy beside me.
"Do you, Caspian, take Queen Dawn Pevensie to be your wife,
To be her constant friend,
her partner in life, and her true love?
To love her without reservation,
honor and respect her,
protect her from harm,
comfort her in times of distress,
and to grow with her in mind, magic and spirit? " asked Aslan.
As he spoke Edmund wrapped the red ribbon around Caspian and my conjoined hands.
"I do," stated Caspian as he gazed into my eyes.
"Do you, Dawn, take King Caspian X to be your husband,
To be his constant friend,
his partner in life, and his true love?
To love him without reservation,
honor and respect him,
protect him from harm,
comfort him in times of distress,
and to grow with him in mind, magic and spirit? " asked Aslan.
"I do," the most powerful words I had ever spoken in my life and would ever say, Lucy had shakily tied her ribbon around our hands along with Edmunds.
"Then by the power of the old magic may I declare thee wed. Your Majesty," Aslan gestured to Caspian, "you may kiss your bride."
Our hands still enlaced with the ribbons, Caspian leaned down and captured my lips with his in the most toe curling and passionate kiss he had ever given me. His lips moved against mine in perfect harmony, soft and warm with the most glorious taste of apples and a little bit of wine.
While we shared our embrace the ribbons wrapped around our hands glowed and undid by themselves before rising above everyone's heads and stretching across the whole hall before exploding into confetti and flower petals.
The cheering and cries of the onlookers was immense.
"And breath!" joked Ed, breaking Caspian and I apart. Sometime during the kiss, we had realized our hands were free and Caspian had dipped me backwards into a near back breaking back bend.
We laughed, "get lost, Ed."
Caspian led me down the aisle with Aslan trotting behind us as we left the room, across the entrance hall and to the balcony.
The applause, cheering, yelling and clapping all began once again, only louder as we reached the edge and waved down at the crowd.
"May I introduce my wife and your Queen, Queen Dawn the Enchanting."
"Long live the Queen! Long live the Queen! Long live the Queen! Long live the Queen!"
I'm so sorry! I didn't realise I had not posted this when I had finished writing it. This is not the end. I am writing a few extra chapters and an epilogue as this obviously deviates from the rest of the books in the Narnia series. I may also do a one shot series where you guys can give ideas which I will dedicate to whoever came up with it, along with some of my own. They can be almost anything to do with the Dawn Pevensie series. I was also considering doing possibly a crossover featuring these characters but I may just put them in the one shots. I would like to hear what you guys have to say.
*Also for the beginning of the Wedding scene, I imagined the song 'Now we are Free' from Gladiator preformed by Taylor Davis playing, just in case you wanted to know.
Just remember we are not finished yet. This is not the last you will see of Dawn Pevensie.