Disclaimer: all is property of the beloved, amazing, talented (the list goes on) C.S. Lewis.
A/N: Thank you so much for all of your reviews! It really means a lot to me (grins) Honestly, it does. This story would not still be going without all of you wonderful readers and reviewers supporting it. Thank you for all your helpful information that has made this story far better than it could have been without your help.
I think I'm an insomniac… I just can't seem to stop writing chapters in the middle of the night! (laughs) But then again, you are all completely worth it and when I write, well, I better write! (hugs muse)
As always, your reviews, comments, suggestions, fav parts/characters are completely welcome and of course very much appreciated:)
Chapter Twenty-Nine: Home at Last
It took them three days to re-enter Narnia and cross the Great River. Soon they were within a day's ride of Cair Paravel and Edmund could almost feel the excitement that radiated off his company as they neared home. The Fauns had struck up a lively song and Edmund couldn't help but grin. He and Peter had only been gone for a little over a month, but it felt far longer, especially after everything they had been through.
Though Sirrian and his forces were no longer a current threat, Edmund couldn't help but feel that there was far more going on than any of them realised. However, he didn't have time to dwell on it as Susan nudged her mare, Weindi, along side of Edmund and Philip. Lucy, too small to ride her own horse, sat in front of Susan, and was grinning over at Edmund.
"Let's race!" said Lucy and Susan laughed.
"I don't think he can beat us, Lu," teased Susan, winking at Edmund.
"Oh?" said Edmund, arching an eyebrow. He glanced down at Philip. "Do you hear that, Philip? The girls think they can beat us."
Philip let out a whinny and snorted. "Your Majesty, Weindi is a fine mare but I do not think she can match us for speed."
"A whole lot you know, Philip," retorted Weindi, blowing air from her nostrils. "Queen Susan, Queen Lucy, I do believe that we should show Philip just how fast I can run."
Both girls laughed just as Peter came over to see what the commotion was about. "What's this?" asked Peter with a smile.
"The girls and Weindi have challenged me and Philip to a race," said Edmund with a smirk and Peter laughed.
"Mind if I join in?" asked Peter, grinning.
"Of course not, Peter," said Susan, laughing. "But I do not doubt that we will beat you, my brother."
"We shall see," said Peter with a wink. "Go!" With that, Peter took off with a burst of speed.
"Head start!" protested Edmund but he nudged Philip and they took off after Peter. He heard the girls laughing behind him and glanced back to see them drawing closer. "Come on, Philip, we can't let the girls beat us."
"Never, your Majesty," breathed Philip and they raced faster through the forest, leaping over small streams, dodging shrubbery, and jumping over fallen logs.
Edmund grinned as they raced faster, catching up to Peter. Edmund gave a little wave as they passed Peter, who laughed. The brothers raced neck and neck for quite some time before Philip pulled away. The wind on Edmund's face and beneath his cloak as it flapped behind him was an incredible feeling. He felt like he was flying and his hands gripped the reins tighter in an effort not to fall off Philip. This is amazing! The stress seemed to melt off him as they continued to ride and for once, Edmund felt entirely free.
"You're slowing down!" Edmund heard Lucy yell as the girls rode past, laughing.
"Oh, no you don't!" retorted Edmund and he sped after the girls.
They broke through the edge of the forest and Edmund saw the girls stopped at the edge of a grassy stretch of land, the edge dropping off in a sheer cliff. Edmund pulled Philip to a halt next to them, wondering why they had stopped. Then he followed their gazes and his mouth dropped open, his heart leaping into his throat.
Across a wide, lush valley, the Great River rushing far below, was one of the most amazing sights that Edmund had ever seen. There, sitting on the edge of a great, jagged cliff, was Cair Paravel in all her splendour. The many glass windows sparkled in the sunlight and it radiated a sense of warmth and security. Home… thought Edmund, grinning from ear to ear.
He vaguely heard the footfall of a horse come to a halt beside him, knowing that Peter had joined them in looking out towards their home. The four of them were silent as they smiled, looking upon their home with eagerness and a sense of relief and happiness.
"Nothing has ever looked as good as that," whispered Peter and Edmund nodded in silent agreement.
"Beautiful," breathed Susan.
They lapsed into silence, only broken by the sounds of footfalls as their company drew up behind them. "That is a welcomed sight, your Majesties," said Oreius as he came to a halt beside Peter.
"You have never spoken a truer word, General Oreius," said Peter with a nod. "Let's go home." They turned and began making their way along the rim of the valley.
Edmund nudged Philip forward so that he could ride alongside Oreius. "General Oreius, could I ask a favour?"
"Of course, your Majesty."
"Thank you," said Edmund with a smile. He looked up at the Centaur General and then back forward. "You know Ivaylo?"
"Yes. As far as I understand he and his pack are coming back to Cair Paravel with us."
Edmund nodded. "Right. Well, I –" He frowned, not wanting to sound incompetent, but needing Oreius' help.
"If there is anything that I can assist you with, your Majesty, in making it easier to deal with the Wolves, it would be my pleasure."
"Thank you, Oreius," said Edmund gratefully, letting out the breath he had been unconsciously holding. He fiddled with Philip's reins and then set his hands down, his gaze outward, allowing Philip to maneuver as he wished. "Here's my problem. At the ceremony tonight, we're going to be honouring individuals from the battle with Sirrian. I wish to honour Ivaylo for everything he and his pack have done. I also wanted to make him my commander, since I know that we all have our own lands. From what I know, I'm not going to be the one out there watching over my lands. I'm supposed to have someone do that for me."
"Yes, sire," said Oreius, nodding curtly. "You wish to have Ivaylo as your commander."
Edmund nodded. "Yes, but I don't rightly know how to even approach him. I know a bit of strategy and how battles work, but not land and territory."
"I must confess that I am not an expert myself, your Majesty, but I do know a fair amount and would gladly offer what I can. Here is what I know."
And for the next few hours as they made their way back to Cair Paravel, Oreius explained to Edmund everything he knew about territories, land ownership, and how he might be able to convince Ivaylo to consider his offer.
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Edmund could feel the excitement and anticipation building inside him as they neared Cair Paravel. They broke through the edge of the forest and began making their way down the wide, stone pathway that led to the castle. Hundreds of creatures including Foxes, Dryads, Naiads, Dwarves, Badgers, and the Beavers, lined the pathway, cheering as the company came into view, the four monarchs at the head. The clear sound of trumpets pierced the air and Edmund grinned, his heart pounding as they made their way down the pathway. Home! Finally! He looked around at everyone and couldn't help but feel a sense of elation at the smiles upon their faces. There weren't many creatures yet, but more would come as Narnia withdrew into peaceful times. The Narnians didn't deserve to suffer any longer and Edmund was bound determined to make sure that they were happy, even if he didn't quite know how to yet.
Lucy was beaming and waving wildly to everyone, calling out hello's to the Beavers. Susan chuckled and smiled, keeping her hands firmly on Weindi's reins. Edmund's gaze landed on his older brother and he couldn't help but chuckle, seeing how amazing his brother looked. He knew that Peter was exhausted but, being Peter, he didn't show it as he smiled and waved.
Edmund looked upwards as they neared the castle gates and grinned upon seeing the multi-tiered castle and the glittering glass windows. Even the air smelled fresher and cleaner. He took a deep breath and patted Philip on the neck. "It's good to be back."
"Yes, your Majesty. The grass here is the finest in all of Narnia," whinnied Philip and Edmund laughed.
"But you haven't been to all of Narnia, how do you know?" teased Edmund.
"I know," snorted Philip, which Edmund took as a laugh.
Edmund grinned. "I'll take your word for it."
"You should really try the grass yourself, sire. It is wonderfully delicious."
"Grass isn't exactly something humans eat," laughed Edmund.
"You're missing out, sire."
"I'll just have to trust that it is as good as you say."
As they passed beneath the portcullis and into the small courtyard, Peter nudged his horse over so that he came to a halt next to Edmund. "First thing I'm doing is jumping into my bed and never letting go of those pillows," laughed Peter and Edmund grinned.
"I should like a bath first."
"Good idea."
"Of course it is. I thought of it." Edmund smirked and they both laughed. They dismounted their horses and allowed the stable-hands to lead them away.
As soon as the girls were dismounted, with Oreius helping lift Lucy off of her horse, Lucy ran over to them, grinning, with Susan close behind. Then she saw something behind Edmund and her entire face lit up. Edmund turned and saw Tumnus hurrying over to the four monarchs, bowing quickly.
"Welcome home, your Majesties," said Tumnus with a bright smile.
"Mr. Tumnus!" Lucy ran over and threw her arms around his waist, hugging him tightly.
He laughed and hugged her back lightly. "Queen Lucy, it is a pleasure to see you well."
"Anything we miss while we were gone?" asked Peter with a smile.
"Nothing of any particular interest, your Majesty," said Tumnus, smiling. "Queen Susan and Queen Lucy managed to get mostly everything in order before the left. It is good to have you back. I was terribly worried, what with everything happening down south."
Peter set his hand on Tumnus' shoulder, giving him a reassuring smile. "But we're back now and Sirrian is gone. Aslan has assured us that we won't be seeing him for quite some time."
"That is good to hear," said Tumnus with a sigh of relief.
"How have you been, Mr. Tumnus?" asked Susan, smiling gently as they walked into the castle, heading to their chambers. Peter ducked out to make sure the company was taken care of, assuring them that he would meet them in Susan's room after they had their baths and had changed into their ceremonial clothes.
"Good, your Majesty," said Tumnus as they walked. "While you were gone in the south, the Beavers helped me find a solution to the row that the Badgers and the two Bears were in about their lands. The court is completely set up and is working quite efficiently."
"You're so very good with everyone, Mr. Tumnus," said Lucy with a smile.
"She's right," said Susan. "We couldn't have done it without your help."
Blush appeared on Tumnus' cheeks and he fiddled with the dark-green mantle that he wore. "You are very kind, your Majesties."
"It's the truth," smiled Susan.
Edmund was quiet, watching their interaction with a soft smile as he trailed behind them, listening to them continue chatting. Lucy is always so happy around Tumnus, thought Edmund as he watched her laugh at something Tumnus said. Even Susan seemed more at ease around him. And she's the stuffiest of all of us, thought Edmund with a silent chuckle. It really is good to be back. As they walked down the hall to their rooms, Edmund looked out through the open-arches towards the glittering sea. It was nearly sunset and the view was spectacular, the sky painted with oranges, reds, purples, and bright yellows. A cool, refreshing breeze wafted in, washing over them and rustling the tapestries on the walls.
They reached their rooms and Edmund halted in front of his. He turned to look at his sisters and Tumnus. "I'm going to wash up and then I need to speak with Ivaylo. Can you let Peter know? I'll meet you in his room before we have to go to the Great Hall."
The girls nodded. "Sure," said Susan. She smiled softly. "Get some rest while you're at it."
Edmund smirked slightly. "I can't guarantee that."
"You sound like Peter," laughed Lucy and Edmund smiled.
"So I do." Not always a bad thing. He opened the door to his chambers and entered, shutting the door behind him quietly.
He heard the door to his bathroom open and saw Reilian, Seeswalan, and Mauleien enter his main chambers. "Your Majesty, welcome home," said Mauleien with a bow of his head. The other two dipped their heads, smiling.
"Thank you," said Edmund.
"We have drawn you a bath, your Majesty," said Mauleien. He looked at Reilian. "Reilian, set out King Edmund's ceremonial clothes and have Seeswalan help you turn down his bed. I am sure he is tired from his journey."
"That won't be necessary, honestly," said Edmund, holding up a hand. "I'm not resting just yet and I'll take care of my clothes."
"It is our duty to serve you, sire," said Reilian with a dip of her head, a faint blush on her cheeks. "Please allow us to take care of that for you."
Edmund felt awkward and shifted slightly. What do I say to that? "Well – I – all right then."
"Thank you, your Majesty," said Reilian quickly, glancing once more at Edmund and flashing him a quick smile before hurrying to his bedroom with Seeswalan.
Edmund followed Mauleien into the bathroom and allowed Mauleien to help him undress. Edmund slipped into the warm water and let out a contented sigh as he leaned against the side of the tub, closing his eyes. A good bath…how long has it been? He felt Mauleien begin to massage wonderfully-scented soap into his hair. Edmund could literally feel the grime melt away from his body as he lay there.
Seeswalan entered the bathroom a short while later, taking a seat next to Mauleien, and began to massage Edmund's shoulders, helping to relax his muscles. His body was beginning to relax so completely that sleep tugged at the edges of his mind. I…suppose…a short nap…can't hurt…and he drifted off into a soothing sleep.
When he awoke, he found himself in his bed, nestled beneath his blankets. He sat up, rubbing the sleep from his eyes, and saw that Reilian was sitting at the foot of his bed, watching him. His heart jumped slightly and he felt awkward again. Why is she watching me?
"Good, you're awake," she said with a smile, looking nervous. "Mauleien told me to wait until you awoke in case you needed anything, your Majesty. Also to make sure that you didn't sleep too long since you have the ceremony tonight."
"Oh." Edmund was quiet for a few moments, fidgeting with the edge of his blanket. "Thank you."
She quickly moved off his bed, bowing her head. "Do you require anything from me, sire?"
Edmund shook his head. "No, thank you."
"As you wish. Your clothes are set out for you." She hurried out of the room and Edmund climbed out of his bed. Glancing at the ornate clock above the fireplace he saw that he still had plenty of time before the ceremony. And, even if he hadn't wanted to rest, he had to admit that he felt ever so much better now that he had rested.
Stretching his arms over his head, he walked over to his dressing area, where his ceremonial clothes were hanging. They consisted of a soft, velvet, dark-gray jerkin, a light-gray, long-sleeved undershirt, a silvery-white cloak, matching leggings, and soft black boots. Edmund noticed his silver crown sitting on a small, plush pillow on an intricately-carven table next to his wardrobe and couldn't help but chuckle. I highly doubt that's the same one I had with me during the battle…that's long lost. But, it is Narnia. Stranger things have happened.
He quickly changed out of his nightclothes and into his ceremonial clothes, clasping the cloak around his shoulders. He tugged his boots on and then cinched his belt around his waist. He looked around, his gaze landing on his sword-belt which was hanging over the back of one of the chairs. Walking over, he rested his hand on the hilt of the sword. "Hopefully I won't need you for a bit," he murmured and turned, picking up his crown and setting it upon his head.
Edmund looked into the full-length mirror and mused that he looked quite a bit different. His face had thinned out and his skin had tanned slightly, giving him a healthier glow despite the healing cut across his cheek. He rested his hand on his abdomen, knowing that two, silver-white scars lie there beneath his clothes. That is one thing I'd rather forget, he thought and turned, unclasping his scabbard from his sword-belt and re-clasping it onto the belt he now wore. The familiar weight of his sword was soothing and he rested a hand on his hilt, heading out of his room in search for Ivaylo.
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Edmund had been trying to find Ivaylo for over an hour and on a whim, he passed through one of the outer courtyards. This courtyard was on one of the lower levels of the castle and had a white, intricately-designed gate that led out to the expansive grounds. Though the courtyard was simple in landscaping terms, it was nevertheless just as beautiful and calming as the others.
Edmund was about to head back into the castle when movement caught his eye. He walked over near the gate and was surprised to see Ivaylo sitting there, looking out towards the grounds and the forest beyond.
"Ivaylo?" said Edmund cautiously, still not exactly sure on how to treat the Wolf. Though the Wolf was incredibly stubborn, the last thing Edmund wanted to do was offend him, especially after everything he had done for Edmund. Though I do wonder why he always came to help when I needed it, thought Edmund.
Ivaylo stood up on all fours and turned to look at Edmund, his golden eyes glittering darkly. "Yes?" His fur bristled but his voice was calm.
Edmund took a seat on one of the marble benches, resting his hands in his lap. His gaze never wavered as he looked upon the dark-grey wolf. "You have helped my company several times over the past month, yet you never stay long enough for me to thank you."
"I want no gratitude," snarled Ivaylo.
Edmund didn't flinch, his features remaining calm. "In this past battle, without the help of you and your pack, we would not have survived. General Oreius told me of your courageous efforts and while I understand that you wish no gratitude and that you are only loyal to your pack, I wish to offer you a place in my court. It would be an honour to have you serve as my Commander in the Western Woods." Don't mess this up, Ed, he thought to himself. Mind your words. Remember what Lord Dar said, the advice he gave on how to speak…and General Oreius' help on the way here about territories and all that…
"You forget, boy, that I am of the Southern Wolves," growled Ivaylo, gnashing his teeth together. "Why would I give up my territory to come to one of your lands? It seems I gave you more credit than was deserved."
Edmund remained calm on the outside, though inside he was unsure exactly how to handle this situation. "I apologise for any inconsideration that may have happened on my account. I offer you this, since I do not wish to ask you to give up your Southern territory. There is a place that is near the Western Woods and is still considered part of the Western March. It is called the Shuddering Wood and this point is considered to be on the border of the southern and western lands. If it would be to your pleasing, I would ask you to take up residence there, where you could marshal my western lands, yet still keep control over your southern territory. By doing so, this would expand your territory up to and including the Western Woods for I would make it known that it is your land so that other packs would not be able to challenge you unjustly."
Ivaylo considered this cautiously, his cold gaze never leaving Edmund's steady, calm features. It was a few moments before he spoke. "You order me to do this?"
"I would no more order you than to order the heavens to do my bidding," said Edmund honestly. "You are a free person, you choose your path. I am merely presenting an offer that I believe would benefit us both."
"I answer to no one," snarled Ivaylo, but it wasn't with as much of his usual menace.
Edmund nodded curtly. "Yes, I understand, but some considerations would need to be taken into account. If you are my commander, then I would need you to report to me anything that is amiss in the Western March, as well as be by my side if a battle should occur. I mean you no disrespect when I state this, for it is the way of the court and our commanders. Would you accept this offer?"
"And what do I get in return?"
"More territory, the freedom to manage it, as you wish, within reason." Edmund smiled slightly. "I know that you are loyal to Aslan and that Aslan trusts you completely. That is more than enough to give you merit to be my commander. The ceremony is tonight, at which time we will be honouring those that aided us in the battle against Sirrian. I wish to present the Western March under your control as my commander, if you agree." Edmund was quiet, letting Ivaylo think. Please, I really do need you there. There's no one else I could really put in charge that I know would guard it with his life. You have shown me that I can trust you and you've saved my life plenty of times. It's the least I can do to thank you.
Ivaylo didn't speak for a few minutes and then snarled, saying, "You will have my answer before the ceremony." Then he turned, running off.
Edmund let out the breath he had been unconsciously holding and looked up to the clear blue sky. The light was beginning to fade as night fell and soon they would all be gathered in the Great Hall. Cair Paravel…how I missed it, he thought with a smile before standing and heading back inside.
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When Edmund entered Peter's room, he found his sisters sitting on the edge of Peter's bed, and Peter pacing up and down in front of the fireplace.
"Nervous much?" teased Edmund, walking over and leaning against one of the bedposts, crossing his arms over his chest.
Peter stopped pacing and quickly adjusted his crown. "What if I forget something? I don't want to look like a total dolt."
Edmund smirked, about to say something when Susan spoke, "Peter, you'll be fine. You did brilliantly at our coronation ceremony."
"But that was ages ago!" protested Peter.
Lucy laughed and hopped off the bed, running over to Peter and giving him a tight hug. "Don't worry so much, silly," she said with a smile, looking up at him.
"Thanks Lu," chuckled Peter, hugging her lightly.
"Welcome." Lucy grinned and then ran back over, hopping up onto the bed next to Susan.
Peter went to readjust his crown and Edmund smirked. "You're fidgeting again."
Peter's cheeks tinged pink and he quickly dropped his hands. "Why don't you speak at the ceremony then, if you're so confident," challenged Peter with a smirk.
"Because, o brother of mine, you are High King." Edmund continued to smirk. "And it's your duty."
"You like rubbing that in, don't you."
"Every chance I have," said Edmund smugly and they all laughed.
"All right, well we should probably head on down," said Peter. He took a deep breath, letting it out slowly.
"You'll do fine," said Susan, standing and walking over to him, placing a hand on his arm. "Don't worry so much."
Edmund snorted. "That won't happen."
"Ignore Ed," said Susan, giving Edmund a chiding yet amused look.
Peter nodded, taking another long, deep breath. "I'm fine."
Edmund just shook his head, chuckling, and walked towards the door. "Are you coming?"
"I am!" said Lucy excitedly as she climbed off the bed and ran over to join Edmund at the door. They waited expectantly for their older siblings and after a few minor tweaks to Peter's tunic, they headed to the Great Hall.
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" – no water for you to fall in if you get startled," teased Edmund as they stood outside the closed doors that led into the Great Hall.
"I am not going to get startled and besides, hasn't that become a bit old?" retorted Peter, crossing his arms over his chest. "It was ages ago."
"That's not what I heard," smirked Edmund.
"And what did you hear?"
"You had a run in with a fountain earlier."
Peter's cheeks flushed red. "Did not."
Edmund grinned. "You're blushing."
"No."
"Yes."
Both girls were chuckling, watching the brothers continue to banter, finding it all quite amusing.
"Then why are you in a different outfit?" asked Edmund, arching an eyebrow.
"Who says I am?"
"A little bird told me."
"Not possible."
"We're in Narnia, of course it's possible," smirked Edmund.
"You –" Peter was beginning to become flustered, which only made Edmund chuckle.
"You'll be fine and anyhow, I've chosen a commander for the Western March."
"Who?" asked Susan and Edmund looked at her.
"Ivaylo."
At the same time that Peter exclaimed, "WHAT?" both girls smiled and said, "Good choice."
Edmund folded his arms across his chest, looking at Peter inquisitively. "Yes?"
"You want – the Wolf to be your commander?" asked Peter incredulously.
"When are you going to give over, Peter?" asked Edmund, frowning. "You know that he's trustworthy."
"Is he?"
"You're being stupid, Peter," said Edmund sharply. "You know as well as I do that he's the best choice. Anyhow, he's saved my life how many times? You know he's good."
"Trusting a Wolf isn't going to just happen for me, you know," retorted Peter. "Or have you forgotten –"
"Oh, I didn't forget. You kindly reminded me of that in Archenland or did you forget that?" snapped Edmund, scowling.
Peter looked taken back at this and was quiet. "Ed," he said softly. "I thought we put that behind us."
"Well I did, but obviously you haven't."
"Boys, please, don't argue," said Susan, moving to stand between them. She looked at them both. "This is supposed to be a happy time. We're celebrating the return of our company and the victory over Sirrian."
"If Edmund trusts Ivaylo, you should too, Peter," said Lucy, looking at her eldest brother. "Besides, it's his land."
"But – I'm High King," sputtered Peter. "And –"
"And what?" said Edmund, his voice a bit icier than he intended. "Going to try and tell me what to do? You might as well save your breath. You know it won't work."
Susan sighed, placing a hand to her forehead and then looked at them sternly. "Just stop this. Right now." Peter went to protest and she quickly clapped a hand over his mouth. "No." She kept her hand over Peter's mouth and looked at Edmund as he began to say something. "Nor you." Susan removed her hand from Peter's mouth. "Now be reasonable, both of you. You're Kings now and you need to start acting like ones. It is up to each of us to decide how we go about setting up our commanders in our parts of Narnia and while we can all discuss our thoughts, it is ultimately up to us individually to have the final say. Peter, I know you're High King but you're being perfectly unreasonable about all of this. Aslan trusts Ivaylo, isn't that enough for you?"
Peter looked ready to protest but then shut his mouth. He sighed, rubbing his temples with two fingers before looking at Edmund. "Sorry, Ed. You're right."
"Glad you admitted it finally," retorted Edmund but with a sharp look from Susan he sighed and said, "I'm sorry too, Peter."
"Good," said Susan. "Now that that's settled, why don't we head inside?"
"King Edmund," called a voice and Edmund turned to see the Satyr Arturon walking over to him. He quickly bowed his head and then said, "I have a message from Ivaylo."
"Yes?" said Edmund.
"He has accepted your offer and waits in the Great Hall with his pack."
"Thank you, Arturon." Arturon bowed his head and headed back down the corridor.
Edmund couldn't help but smile as the four monarchs turned to face the closed doors. Thank Aslan he accepted. The doors swung open and the clear sound of trumpets could be heard, echoing off the high, arched, ivory ceiling.
"His Majesty, High King Peter the Magnificent," announced the Herald: an older male Faun. Peter stepped forward, making his way towards the dais. "Her Majesty, Queen Susan the Gentle. His Majesty, King Edmund the Just. Her Majesty, Queen Lucy the Valiant." One by one, the four siblings made their way to their thrones and took their seats, adjusting their cloaks to sit comfortable in the thrones.
Night had fallen and a cool breeze swept through the Great Hall. Edmund looked around at the Centaurs, Fauns, Leopards, Panthers, Badgers, and all the other creatures that were standing along the sides. Edmund smiled when he saw Ivaylo and his pack sitting next one of the open arches. There was a silent acknowledgment between them and Edmund felt sure of his decision.
"Tonight, before we feast," began Peter, "there are honours to be given." Peter glanced at the Beavers, who stepped forward, bearing shining medals on two soft, dark-green pillows. Peter stood and motioned for Edmund to join him. "General Oreius, please step forward."
Oreius came to attention and then moved to stand in front of the dais. Edmund picked up one of the medals and Oreius bowed his head as Edmund slipped it over his neck. If I wasn't standing on this dais, I wouldn't be able to reach, thought Edmund with an inner chuckle.
"For his honour, bravery, and cool intellect during our many battles," said Peter as Oreius bowed to the monarchs and stepped back into place as the Great Hall erupted into applause.
One by one, the honours were given out until at last, it was Edmund's turn.
"I call upon the Wolf Ivaylo," said Edmund, feeling his heart race. Standing up in front of everyone was nerve-wracking and especially since he was about to bestow the title of Commander on a Wolf.
Ivaylo padded forward and climbed up the stairs to stand in front of Edmund. Edmund looked around the Great Hall. "This Wolf has shown more courage than I could ever begin to explain to all of you."
He took a deep breath, hearing Lucy whisper, "You can do it," behind him.
Edmund smiled softly and continued. "He has saved my life, as well as the lives of our company during the battles against Sirrian and the remnants of the Witch's Army. Time after time, he and his pack have come to our aid when we needed them the most. Aslan has faith in him and so do my royal siblings and I. Therefore, I am bestowing the title of Commander of the Western March upon the Wolf Ivaylo. It is well deserved." Edmund took the remaining medal from Mr. Beaver's pillow and slipped it around Ivaylo's neck. And, for the first time since they had met, Ivaylo gave Edmund a brief bow of his head.
The Great Hall erupted into applause as Ivaylo turned, padding back to his pack.
"Now, let us enjoy this night," said Peter, smiling, "and enjoy the hearty feast that has been prepared."
The four monarchs made their way out of the Great Hall and to the banquet tables that had been set up on a sea-side terrace along side the Great Hall. The night rang with laughter and good cheer, the stars sparkling brightly overhead, and in a distance place, a lion roared his approval.
That so sounds like the end to the story, does it not?
But have no fear! This ship is still sailing strong (winks) and prepare yourself for plenty more twists and plots to come!
This chapter, which didn't seem to be wanting to be written until tonight, turned out to be far longer than I had planned originally. I know that I said I was going to time jump, but I really needed to close up everything that had been happening and, of course, Ivaylo is here to stay! (grins)
Between friendly sibling bickering, to brotherly spats, and to Edmund having changed so much, I hope this chapter has met your expectations :)
So, next chapter, we will be jumping forward a few months (as nothing really exciting happens during that time) and we will get our first ambassadors to Narnia. It shall be interesting, that's all I will say ;) and no, there won't be love at first sight. Haha.
There's a similar bit in this chpt to Horse and his Boy, if you can catch it (winks) and I wanted to thank Morohtar for giving me the inspiration about the Commander of the Western March.
Edmund had a little help with Ivaylo thanks to Oreius, Lord Dar, and King Lune. Inside Edmund might still be unsure, awkward, and hoping he doesn't mess anything up, but when he has to, he can be every bit the King he is.
So, without further ado, let me know your thoughts! Also, anything you'd like to see happen next chapter :) Thanks again for reading!
